bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the importance of functional traits for primary production in aquatic plant communities
Authors: Gustafsson Camilla , Norkko Alf
Published: May 2018

Aquatic plant meadows are important coastal habitats that sustain many ecosystem functions such as primary production and carbon sequestration. Currently, there is a knowledge gap in understanding which plant functional traits, for example, leaf size or plant height underlie primary production in aquatic plant communities.

To study how plant traits are related to primary production, we conducted a field survey in the Baltic Sea, Finland, which is characterized by high plant species and functional diversity. Thirty sites along an exposure gradient were sampled (150 plots), and nine plant morphological and chemical traits measured. The aim was to discern how community‐weighted mean traits affect community production and whether this relationship changes along an environmental gradient using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Plant height had a direct positive effect on production along an exposure gradient (r = 0.33) and indirect effects through two leaf chemical traits, leaf δ15N and leaf δ13C (r = 0.24 and 0.18, respectively) resulting in a total effect of 0.28. In plant communities experiencing varying exposure, traits such as root N concentration and leaf δ15N had positive and negative effects on production, respectively.

Synthesis. Our results demonstrate that the relationship between aquatic plant functional traits and community production is variable and changes over environmental gradients. Plant height generally has a positive effect on community production along an exposure gradient, while the link between other traits and production changes in plant communities experiencing varying degrees of exposure. Thus, the underlying biological mechanisms influencing production differ in plant communities, emphasizing the need to resolve variability and its drivers in real‐world communities. Importantly, functionally diverse plant communities sustain ecosystem functioning differently and highlight the importance of benthic diversity for coastal ecosystem stability.
Stillbirth rates in 20 countries of Latin America: an ecological study
Authors: Pingray V , Althabe F , Vazquez P , Correa M , Pajuelo M , Belizán JM
Published: May 2018

Objective

To describe country‐level stillbirth rates and their change over time in Latin America, and to measure the association of stillbirth rates with socio‐economic and health coverage indicators in the region.

Design

Ecological study.

Setting

20 countries of Latin America.

Population or Sample

Aggregated data from pregnant women with countries as units of analysis.

Methods

We used stillbirth estimates, and socio‐economic and healthcare coverage indicators reported from 2006 to 2016 from UNICEF, United Nations Development Programme and World Bank datasets. We calculated Spearman's correlation coefficients between stillbirths rates and socioeconomic and health coverage indicators.

Main outcome measures

National estimates of stillbirth rates in each country.

Results

The estimated stillbirth rate for Latin America for 2015 was 8.1 per 1000 births (range 3.1–24.9). Seven Latin America countries had rates higher than 10 stillbirths per 1000 births. The average annual reduction rate for the region was 2% (range 0.1–3.8%), with the majority of Latin America countries ranging between 1.5 and 2.5%. National stillbirth rates were correlated to: women's schooling (rS = −0.7910), gross domestic product per capita (rS = −0.8226), fertility rate (rS = 0.6055), urban population (rS = −0.6316), and deliveries at health facilities (rS = −0.6454).

Conclusions

Country‐level estimated stillbirth rates in Latin America varied widely in 2015. The trend and magnitude of reduction in stillbirth rates between 2000 and 2015 was similar to the world average. Socio‐economic and health coverage indicators were correlated to stillbirth rates in Latin America.

Tweetable abstract

Stillbirth rates decreased in Latin America but remain relatively high, with wide variations among countries.
Peri‐anal surface dose in anal canal VMAT radiotherapy
Authors: Joseph Kurian , Rose Brenda , Warkentin Heather , Yun Jihyun , Ghosh Sunita , Tankel Keith
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Skin bolus may routinely be used in the perineum to build up the surface dose in the treatment of anal cancer (ACC); this may contribute to significant acute skin toxicity. Skin bolus may not be needed with the introduction of modern radiotherapy techniques if these planning techniques would achieve adequate surface dose. Our study is to ascertain if appropriate skin dose can be achieved without the use of bolus when VMAT is used in the treatment of ACC.

Methods

The study includes 10 ACC patients treated with VMAT radiotherapy. Optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLD) are used to evaluate whether the calculated dose for the VMAT planning technique (VMAT‐PT) accurately predicted the dose delivered to peri‐anal target region without bolus. The OSLD recorded the dose at the anal verge or at the lower most extent of the tumour for each patient over two fractions. The OSLD was read after each of the two fractions, and the average value was reported. The mean dose over a volume centred on the anal marker was calculated in the treatment planning system (TPS).

Results

The mean TPS‐calculated dose was 186.1 cGy. The mean of the OSLD‐measured doses was 205.7 cGy for a single fraction. The mean of the measured doses was 10.6% higher than the mean of the calculated doses.

Conclusions

The calculated dose for the VMAT‐PT consistently under‐predicted the dose delivered to the peri‐anal target region without bolus. Routine use of skin bolus could be avoided with VMAT‐PT when the patient is treated in a supine position.
Extracellular RNA profiles with human age
Authors: Dluzen Douglas F. , Noren Hooten Nicole , De Supriyo , Wood William H. , Zhang Yongqing , Becker Kevin G. , Zonderman Alan B. , Tanaka Toshiko , Ferrucci Luigi , Evans Michele K.
Published: May 2018

Circulating extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) are potential biomarkers of disease. We thus hypothesized that age‐related changes in exRNAs can identify age‐related processes. We profiled both large and small RNAs in human serum to investigate changes associated with normal aging. exRNA was sequenced in 13 young (30–32 years) and 10 old (80–85 years) African American women to identify all RNA transcripts present in serum. We identified age‐related differences in several RNA biotypes, including mitochondrial transfer RNAs, mitochondrial ribosomal RNA, and unprocessed pseudogenes. Age‐related differences in unique RNA transcripts were further validated in an expanded cohort. Pathway analysis revealed that EIF2 signaling, oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial dysfunction were among the top pathways shared between young and old. Protein interaction networks revealed distinct clusters of functionally‐related protein‐coding genes in both age groups. These data provide timely and relevant insight into the exRNA repertoire in serum and its change with aging.
Stress, Motivation, and the Gut–Brain Axis: A Focus on the Ghrelin System and Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Morris Laurel S. , Voon Valerie , Leggio Lorenzo
Published: May 2018

Since its discovery, the gut hormone, ghrelin, has been implicated in diverse functional roles in the central nervous system. Central and peripheral interactions between ghrelin and other hormones, including the stress‐response hormone cortisol, govern complex behavioral responses to external cues and internal states. By acting at ventral tegmental area dopaminergic projections and other areas involved in reward processing, ghrelin can induce both general and directed motivation for rewards, including craving for alcohol and other alcohol‐seeking behaviors. Stress‐induced increases in cortisol seem to increase ghrelin in the periphery, suggesting a pathway by which ghrelin influences how stressful life events trigger motivation for rewards. However, in some states, ghrelin may be protective against the anxiogenic effects of stressors. This critical review brings together a dynamic and growing literature, that is, at times inconsistent, on the relationships between ghrelin, central reward‐motivation pathways, and central and peripheral stress responses, with a special focus on its emerging role in the context of alcohol use disorder.
A randomized controlled evaluation of the tobacco status project, a Facebook intervention for young adults
Authors: Ramo Danielle E. , Thrul Johannes , Delucchi Kevin L. , Hall Sharon , Ling Pamela M. , Belohlavek Alina , Prochaska Judith J.
Published: May 2018

Aims

To test the efficacy of the Tobacco Status Project (TSP) Facebook smoking cessation intervention for young adults relative to referral to an on‐line program on biochemically verified 7‐day abstinence from smoking.

Design

Two‐group parallel randomized controlled trial, comparing TSP (n = 251) to on‐line control (n = 249) with follow‐up to 12 months.

Setting

On‐line, throughout the United States.

Participants

Young adult cigarette smokers (mean age 21 years; 73% white, 55% female, 87% daily smokers).

Interventions and comparator

TSP provided private Facebook groups tailored to stage of change to quit smoking, daily contacts, weekly live counseling sessions, and for those ready to quit, six cognitive behavioral therapy counseling sessions. Some TSP groups were assigned randomly to receive a monetary incentive for engagement. Control provided referral to the National Cancer Institute Smokefree.gov website.

Measurements: primary outcome

Biochemically verified 7‐day abstinence over 12 months.

Secondary outcomes

Post‐treatment (3‐month) abstinence; reported abstinence, quit attempt, reduction in smoking, readiness to quit smoking over 12 months.

Findings

Verified 7‐day abstinence was not significantly different for intervention compared with control over 1 year: month 3 (8.3 versus 3.2%), 6 (6.2 versus 6.0%), and 12 (5.9 versus 10.0%); odds ratio (OR) = 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.23, 4.97; retention = 71%. There was an effect at 3 months (OR = 2.52; CI = 1.56, 4.04; P < 0.0001). There were no 12‐month treatment effects for reported abstinence (P = 0.746), reduction in smoking by 50% or more (P = 0.533), likelihood of having made a quit attempt (P = 0.387) or stage of change over time (0.968). Participants in TSP engaged more and rated the intervention more favorably than those in the control condition.

Conclusions

Compared with referral to a smoking cessation website, a novel USA‐focused Facebook smoking cessation intervention did not improve abstinence from smoking over 1 year, but increased abstinence at the end of treatment and was engaging to participants.
A prospective observational study of pigmented naevi changes in psoriasis patients on biologic therapy
Authors: Choi Seohee Deanne , D'Souza Mario I , Menzies Scott W , Weninger Wolfgang
Published: May 2018

Background/Objectives

Patients on biologic therapy are thought to be at increased risk of developing non‐melanoma skin cancers and melanomas. It is unknown whether biologic therapy alters the natural history of melanocytic naevi. Therefore, a prospective observational study was conducted to determine whether psoriasis patients on biologic therapy develop changes in naevi.

Methods

Clinical and dermoscopic assessment of all melanocytic naevi was performed in 45 psoriasis patients on biologic therapy versus a control cohort of 43 subjects, using sequential digital dermoscopic imaging and total body photography. The mean follow‐up period was 1.5 years.

Results

The study and control patients had comparable age, gender, previous and family history of non‐melanoma skin cancers and melanomas, as well as previous sun exposure and total number of naevi. The number of naevi with major dermoscopic changes was 3% in the study and 1.9% in the control group, with an adjusted incidence rate ratio of 1.45 (95% confidence interval 0.90–2.33; P = 0.125). The rate of minor changes was 15.9% in the study group versus 19.4% in the control (adjusted incidence rate ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.57–1.08; P = 0.14). There were six new dysplastic naevi in 4/45 biologic patients and four in 4/43 controls; however, the difference was not significant (relative risk 0.96, 95% confidence interval −0.12 to 0.12; P = 0.95). There were no melanomas in either group.

Conclusion

Over a mean follow‐up period of 1.5 years there was no evidence of significantly different changes in naevi or development of new dysplastic naevi in psoriasis patients on biologic treatment compared to controls.
The role of the maternal and fetal inflammatory response in retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Lynch Anne M. , Berning Amber A. , Thevarajah Tamara S. , Wagner Brandie D. , Post Miriam D. , McCourt Emily A. , Cathcart Jennifer N. , Hodges Jennifer K. , Mandava Naresh , Gibbs Ronald S. , Palestine Alan G.
Published: May 2018

Problem

There is a paucity of research on the contribution of placental inflammation to severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Method of Study

A retrospective cohort study (n = 1217) was conducted of infants screened for ROP (2006‐2016). The outcomes of the study were severe ROP (type 1 or type 2 ROP) and low grade ROP. We categorized the placental pathology as the presence of (i) maternal plus fetal inflammatory response, (ii) maternal inflammatory response only, (iii) fetal inflammatory response only and, (iv) no evidence of a maternal or fetal inflammatory response. The data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses (P < .05).

Results

In this cohort, the number of infants with the maternal plus fetal inflammatory response, the maternal inflammatory response only, the fetal inflammatory response only, and no maternal or fetal inflammatory response was 305 (25%), 82 (7%), 8 (1%), and 822 (67%), respectively. Adjusted for covariates, the maternal plus fetal inflammatory response was a significant risk factor for severe ROP (AOR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.1‐5.9, P = .03). None of the categories of placental inflammation were significantly associated with low grade ROP.

Conclusion

Placental pathology distinguished by the maternal plus fetal inflammatory response was a significant risk factor for severe ROP. Our study supports a link between intrauterine inflammatory events and the subsequent development of severe ROP.
Soluble B7‐H4 blood serum levels are elevated in women at high risk for preeclampsia in the first trimester, as well as in patients with confirmed preeclampsia
Authors: Mach Pawel , Nolte‐Boenigk Luisa , Droste Leonie , Fox Laura , Frank Mirjam , Schmidt Boerge , Herse Florian , Verlohren Stefan , Wicherek Lukasz , Iannaccone Antonella , Birdir Cahit , Andrikos Dimitrios , Kimmig Rainer , Gellhaus Alexandra , Köninger Angela
Published: May 2018

Problem

B7‐H4 negatively regulates T‐cell‐mediated immunity and might play an important role in preeclampsia (PE). Here, we have investigated the association between PE and maternal soluble B7‐H4 (sB7‐H4) serum levels and B7‐H4 mRNA expression in the placenta.

Method of study

Maternal serum levels of sB7‐H4 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in women between 11 and 13 weeks’ gestation with elevated risk for PE (n = 48) and women without elevated risk for PE (n = 47). In the third trimester, sB7‐H4 serum levels (n = 166) and B7‐H4 mRNA expression in the placenta (n = 54) were determined in women with early‐onset PE, late‐onset PE, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and in healthy controls.

Results

In the first trimester, significant higher levels of sB7‐H4 were detected in women at elevated risk for PE compared to women without risk for PE (P < .0001). sB7‐H4 has some predictive ability to identify cases with an elevated risk of developing PE with area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.88 (95% CI 0.8‐0.94). Using a specificity of 90.0% led to a sensitivity of 47.9% and a threshold of 3.63 ng/mL. In the third trimester, the highest serum levels of sB7‐H4 and B7‐H4 mRNA expression in the placenta were observed in early‐onset PE. Significant higher serum levels of sB7‐H4 and B7‐H4 mRNA expression in the placenta were observed in women with early‐onset PE (P = .01 and P = .006, respectively) and late‐onset PE (P = .03 and P = .004, respectively) compared to healthy controls, but not compared to FGR.

Conclusion

sB7‐H4 is involved in the regulation of immune tolerance in women with PE in the third trimester. In the first trimester of pregnancy, sB7‐H4 might serve as a predictive immunological biomarker for women who are at elevated risk of developing PE.
White‐coat hypertension from a paediatric perspective
Authors: Krmar Rafael T.
Published: May 2018

Aim

This mini review explored the prevalence of white‐coat hypertension (WCH), which is very common in children. It results in elevated office blood pressure (BP) but normal ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) readings.

Methods

WCH can only be identified by analysing and comparing office BP readings and ABPM, which periodically records BP every 20–30 minutes over 24‐hour period. This study provides initially the background for WCH in adults, together with a comprehensive overview of the most relevant paediatric data on WCH.

Results

Accurate measurements of BP are very important for the diagnosis and management of hypertension. It is important to acknowledge the clinical relevance of WCH and follow up children who display this BP phenotype by carrying out ABPM, so that clinicians can build up an accurate picture of their BP. It is also important to identify children who have BP issues and are overweight or obese, so that treatment of this modifiable cardiovascular risk factor can be initiated.

Conclusion

Using ABPM provides paediatricians with a more precise evaluation of a child's BP readings than office BP readings. It is the gold standard for diagnosing WCH.
Japanese scoring systems to predict resistance to intravenous immunoglobulin in Kawasaki disease were unreliable for Caucasian Israeli children
Authors: Arane Karen , Mendelsohn Kerry , Mimouni Michael , Mimouni Francis , Koren Yael , Brik Simon Dafna , Bahat Hilla , Hanna Helou Mona , Mendelson Amir , Hezkelo Nofar , Glatstein Miguel , Berkun Yackov , Eisenstein Eli , Butbul Yonatan Aviel , Brik Riva , Hashkes Philip J. , Uziel Yosef , Harel Liora , Amarilyo Gil
Published: May 2018

Aim

This study assessed the validity of using established Japanese risk scoring methods to predict intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance to Kawasaki disease in Israeli children.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 282 patients (70% male) with Kawasaki disease from six Israeli medical centres between 2004 and 2013. Their mean age was 2.5 years. The risk scores were calculated using the Kobayashi, Sano and Egami scoring methods and analysed to determine whether a higher risk score predicted IVIG resistance in this population. Factors that predicted a lack of response to the initial IVIG dose were identified.

Results

We found that 18% did not respond to the first IVIG dose. The three scoring methods were unable to reliably predict IVIG resistance, with sensitivities of 23%–32% and specificities of 67%–87%. Calculating a predictive score that was specific for this population was also unsuccessful. The factors that predicted a lacked of response to the first IVIG dose included low albumin, elevated total bilirubin and ethnicity.

Conclusion

The established risk scoring methods created for Japanese populations with Kawasaki disease were not suitable for predicting IVIG resistance in Caucasian Israeli children, and we were unable to create a specific scoring method that was able to do this.
Targeted mutation screening of 292 candidate genes in 38 children with inborn haematological cytopenias efficiently identifies novel disease‐causing mutations
Authors: Kager Leo , Jimenez Heredia Raúl , Hirschmugl Tatjana , Dmytrus Jasmin , Krolo Ana , Müller Heiko , Bock Christoph , Zeitlhofer Petra , Dworzak Michael , Mann Georg , Holter Wolfgang , Haas Oskar , Boztug Kaan
Published: May 2018

Establishing a precise diagnosis is essential in inborn haematological cytopenias to enable appropriate treatment decisions and avoid secondary organ damage. However, both diversity and phenotypic overlap of distinct disease entities may make the identification of underlying genetic aetiologies by classical Sanger sequencing challenging. Instead of exome sequencing, we established a systematic next generation sequencing‐based panel targeting 292 candidate genes and screened 38 consecutive patients for disease‐associated mutations. Efficient identification of the underlying genetic cause in 17 patients (44·7%), including 13 novel mutations, demonstrates that this approach is time‐ and cost‐efficient, enabling optimal management and genetic counselling.
Emperipolesis and S100 expression may be seen in cutaneous xanthogranulomas: A multi‐institutional observation
Authors: Ruby Kristen N. , Deng April C. , Zhang Jingwei , LeBlanc Robert E. , Linos Konstantinos D. , Yan Shaofeng
Published: May 2018

Cutaneous Rosai‐Dorfman disease (RDD) can be difficult to distinguish from other non‐Langerhans cell histiocytoses, particularly xanthogranuloma (XG). Pathologists use S100 immunoreactivity, abundant plasma cells, and the presence of emperipolesis to distinguish RDD from XG. However, S100 expression has been reported in XG and, in practice, we have occasionally observed emperipolesis in cases that were otherwise clinically and pathologically consistent with XG. We present 10 cases of XG with emperipolesis and variable S100 immunoreactivity. Histologically, 7 cases were most in keeping with XG, and a histologic differential of XG versus RDD was raised in the remaining 3 cases. All 10 cases were clinically consistent with XG. Notably, none of these cases showed abundant plasma cells. Nine cases showed variable S100 immunostaining, ranging from focal/weak expression, to focal/strong, diffuse/moderate, and diffuse/strong expression. Histiocytes in all cases were CD68 positive and CD1a negative. We conclude that emperipolesis and S100 expression in a skin biopsy cannot reliably distinguish XG from cutaneous manifestations of RDD. Clinical correlations are essential, as are histologic clues to a diagnosis of classic XG that include an abundance of foamy mononuclear cells, Touton giant cells, and an absence of pale‐stained histiocytes, abundant plasma cells, fibrosis, or vascular proliferation.
Epithelial sheath neuroma with extension to the subcutis
Authors: Noparstak Michael , Zaycosky Michael , Saeed Sadia
Published: May 2018

Epithelial sheath neuroma (ESN) is a rare entity, histologically showing enlarged nerves in the superficial dermis surrounded by cytologically bland keratinocytes, classically presenting clinically as an erythematous papule or nodule on the back of middle‐aged to elderly individuals. Clear‐cut recommendations for treatment are not available, with many reports citing biopsy alone or simple excision as curative. We report a case of biopsy‐proven ESN presenting as a significantly painful nodule in an elderly woman. Surgical excision was performed for symptom control and the residual ESN was found to extend deep into the subcutis.
Endobronchial ultrasound guided transbronchial needle aspirate from subcarinal lymph node: Mesothelial lesion, a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Nakra T. , Jain D. , Madan K. , Mallick S. , Mathur S. R. , Iyer V. K. , Ramteke P.
Published: May 2018

Endoscopic ultrasound guided needle aspirates in the mediastinum can occasionally produce diagnostic difficulties. We describe a mesothelial lesion which presented in this way and outline the process used to make the final diagnosis.
Effects of genetically modified Burkholderia pyrrocinia JK‐SH007E1 on soil microbial community in poplar rhizosphere
Authors: He L. , Ye J. , Wu B. , Huang L. , Ren J. , Wu X.
Published: May 2018

It is important to assess the biosafety of genetically engineered bacteria before release into the environment. In a previous study, the genetically engineered bacterium Burkholderia pyrrocinia JK‐SH007E1 was developed, showing biological control activity against a poplar canker disease. In the present work, the potential effects of B. pyrrocinia JK‐SH007E1 on soil microbial diversity and population structure in the poplar rhizosphere were assessed. The micro‐ecological effects of JK‐SH007E1 on soil microbial communities were investigated using substrate utilization assays (Biolog EcoPlate), enzyme activity assays and 16S rRNA sequencing to research species diversity and population structure of soil microbial communities. The genetically engineered isolate JK‐SH007E1 improved the functional diversity, soil enzyme activities and alpha diversity of soil microbial communities. However, the positive effects after inoculation attenuated with time, except for soil enzyme activities. Treatments with JK‐SH007 or JK‐SH007E1 were not different in impacts on soil enzyme activity and functional diversity of soil microbial communities. The results demonstrated that inoculation of JK‐SH007E1 into the poplar rhizosphere posed little or no threat to soil microbial communities in the long term. This work provides an additional insight into the effects of genetically engineered JK‐SH007E1 on the environment during long‐term use as biological control against poplar canker diseases.
CD7 is expressed on a subset of normal CD34‐positive myeloid precursors
Authors: Kriegsmann Katharina , Löffler Harald , Eckstein Volker , Schulz Renate , Kräker Sandra , Braun Ute , Luft Thomas , Hegenbart Ute , Schönland Stefan , Dreger Peter , Krämer Alwin , Ho Anthony D. , Müller‐Tidow Carsten , Hundemer Michael
Published: May 2018

Objective

To improve monitoring of myeloid neoplasms by flow cytometry‐based minimal residual disease (MRD) analysis, we analyzed the significance of leukemia‐associated immunophenotype (LAIP) markers in 44 patients.

Methods

In a pilot study cohort, peripheral blood or bone marrow samples from 13 patients with myeloid neoplasms and one case of B lymphoblastic leukemia in complete hematologic remission after allogeneic bone marrow or stem cell transplantation were subjected to selection for leukemia‐specific phenotypes by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting using individual marker combinations, followed by PCR‐based chimerism analysis.

Results

The feasibility of this method could be demonstrated, with selection being successful in 12 cases, including two cases where mixed chimerism was found exclusively in sorted cells. Interestingly, four specimens displayed full donor chimerism in cells expressing the presumably aberrant combination CD34+/CD7+. Further analyses, including assessment of an independent cohort of 25 patients not affected by neoplastic bone marrow infiltration, revealed that normal myeloid precursors usually include a population coexpressing CD34, CD13, CD33, and CD7.

Conclusion

We conclude that the combination CD34+/CD7+ might not be suitable as an LAIP for MRD diagnostics and that a subset of normal myeloid precursors in the bone marrow expresses CD7.
Optogenetic activation of the central amygdala generates addiction‐like preference for reward
Authors: Tom Rebecca L. , Ahuja Aarit , Maniates Hannah , Freeland Charlotte M. , Robinson Mike J. F.
Published: May 2018

Drug and behavioural addictions are characterized by an intense and focused pursuit of a single reward above all others. Pursuit of the addictive reward is often compulsively sought despite adverse consequences and better alternative outcomes. Here, we explored the ability of the central amygdala (CeA) to powerfully bias choice, causing specific rewards to be almost compulsively preferred. Rats were trained on an operant choice task in which they could choose to respond on either of the two levers to receive a sucrose reward, one of which was paired with optogenetic stimulation of the CeA using channelrhodopsin‐2 (ChR2). Rats developed an almost exclusive preference for the laser‐paired reward over the otherwise equal unpaired reward. We found that this preference for stimulation‐paired reward persists even when a much larger sucrose reward is offered as an alternative (contingency management) or when this preferred reward is paired with adverse consequences such as progressively larger electric foot shock, time delays or effort requirements. We also report that when challenged with foot shock, a small proportion of these animals (≈20%) retained an exclusive laser‐paired reward preference, whereas others began to seek the alternate reward when the shock reached high levels. Lastly, we confirmed that optogenetic CeA stimulation was not independently rewarding if delivered in the absence of a paired sucrose reward. These results suggest a role for the CeA in focusing motivation and desire to excessive levels, generating addiction‐like behaviour that persists in the face of more rewarding alternatives and adverse consequences.
Cognitive impairment in early stages of multiple sclerosis is associated with high cerebrospinal fluid levels of chitinase 3‐like 1 and neurofilament light chain
Authors: Quintana E. , Coll C. , Salavedra‐Pont J. , Muñoz‐San Martín M. , Robles‐Cedeño R. , Tomàs‐Roig J. , Buxó M. , Matute‐Blanch C. , Villar L. M. , Montalban X. , Comabella M. , Perkal H. , Gich J. , Ramió‐Torrentà L.
Published: May 2018

Background and purpose

Chitinase 3‐like 1 (CHI3L1) and neurofilament light chain (NF‐L) are promising biomarkers of disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, their role in cognitive dysfunction remains elusive. Here, we aimed to correlate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of CHI3L1 and NF‐L with cognitive status in MS.

Methods

Fifty one recently diagnosed patients were cognitively evaluated and CSF was collected. Levels of CHI3L1 and NF‐L were determined by ELISA. Spearman's partial correlation coefficient was performed.

Results

After adjusting cognitive scores by age, anxiety and EDSS, association was detected between CHI3L1 levels and Trail Making Test A (rs = 0.348; p = 0.016) and between NF‐L levels and Word List Generation (rs = −0.324; p = 0.025).

Conclusion

High levels of CSF CHI3L1 and NF‐L are associated with cognitive impairment in the early phases of MS.
First report of the plant‐parasitic nematode Aphelenchoides besseyi (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae) on rice in Romania
Authors: Karssen G. , Groza M.
Published: May 2018

The rice leaf nematode, Aphelenchoides besseyi, was isolated in 2017 from rice seeds cultivated in Romania. Identification was based on morphology and confirmed with a real‐time PCR test. This paper provides the first report of A. besseyi in Romania.
HLA‐G regulatory variants and haplotypes with susceptibility to recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Yazdani N. , Shekari Khaniani M. , Bastami M. , Ghasemnejad T. , Afkhami F. , Mansoori Derakhshan S.
Published: May 2018

HLA‐G is a nonclassical Class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene. This gene has a limited protein alteration that is produced by alternative splicing and can be important in the preservation of pregnancy. Recent findings suggest that alteration in HLA‐G gene expression can lead to pregnancy failure, such as recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). As the promoter SNPs of the gene may impact the HLA‐G expression levels, the study of these SNPs is very important. In this study, for the promoter region of HLA‐G gene in the case group (100 women with a history of two or more repeated miscarriages) and the control group (100 women with at least two successful pregnancies), PCR reaction was performed. Thereafter, PCR products were sequenced and the results were compared between the two groups. The results showed that −1573T>C and −1746C>A SNPs in the promoter of the HLA‐G gene associated with RPL. The outcome of the haplotype analysis also showed that the association of two haplotypes, including H1 (ATCCAGGTACGCAA) and H2 (CTTCGAGAACGCAG) with RPL, is significant. The results showed that H1 is associated with a decreased and H2 is associated with an increased risk of RPL. These results indicate the importance of the HLA‐G promoter SNPs in the pregnancy outcome. But to reach a more definite conclusion, subsequent studies on 3′ UTR and other positions with polymorphism in the 5′ UTR regions larger samples are necessary.
Evaluation of a community-based training to promote responsible self-medication in East Java, Indonesia†
Authors: Setiadi Adji P , Wibowo Yosi , Setiawan Eko , Presley Bobby , Mulyono Ika , Wardhani Ari S , Sunderland Bruce
Published: May 2018

Objective

To explore pharmacist/pharmacy staff trainers’ perspectives on conducting community-based training to promote responsible self-medication, and to evaluate knowledge gained among community representatives participating in the training.

Methods

Training was conducted in four districts/cities in East Java, Indonesia in 2016. A pre-test/post-test study was used to evaluate the knowledge of 129 community representatives (participants) before/after the training; pre-test and post-test scores as well as absolute gain were determined. Four focus group discussions with 20 pharmacist/pharmacy staff (trainers) were conducted after the training, and the data were thematically analysed.

Key findings

Overall mean test scores for community representatives significantly improved from 14.11 to 15.70 after the training (P < 0.001). The average total absolute gain was 1.85 (95% CI 1.29 to 2.39). To reach local communities, trainers suggested improvements to the content and structure of the module, training aids, trainer competency, approach and time allocation.

Conclusions

Community-based training provides a potential strategy to improve community knowledge of medications. Findings from this study should inform strategies for a broader uptake amongst local communities in Indonesia.
Evolutionary divergence of mitochondrial genomes in two Tetranychus species distributed across different climates
Authors: Sun J.‐T. , Jin P.‐Y. , Hoffmann A.A. , Duan X.‐Z. , Dai J. , Hu G. , Xue X.‐F. , Hong X.‐Y.
Published: May 2018

There is increasing evidence that mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) can be under selection, whereas the selective regimes shaping mitogenome evolution remain largely unclear. To test for mitogenome evolution in relation to the climate adaptation, we explored mtDNA variation in two spider mite (Tetranychus) species that distribute across different climates. We sequenced 26 complete mitogenomes of Tetranychus truncates, which occurs in both warm and cold regions, and nine complete mitogenomes of Tetranychus pueraricola, which is restricted to warm regions. Patterns of evolution in the two species’ mitogenomes were compared through a series of dN/dS methods and physicochemical profiles of amino acid replacements. We found that: (1) the mitogenomes of both species were under widespread purifying selection; (2) elevated directional adaptive selection was observed in the T. truncatus mitogenome, perhaps linked to the cold climates adaptation of T. truncatus; and (3) the strength of selection varied across genes, and diversifying positive selection detected on ND4 and ATP6 pointed to their crucial roles during adaptation to different climatic conditions. This study gained insight into the mitogenome evolution in relation to the climate adaptation.
Genome editing reveals the function of Yorkie during the embryonic and early larval development in silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Xu X. , Zhang Z. , Yang Y. , Huang S. , Li K. , He L. , Zhou X.
Published: May 2018

As a transcriptional coactivator, Yorkie (Yki) is a major downstream target of the Hippo signalling pathway to regulate the organ size during animal development and regeneration. Previous microarray analysis in the silkworm, Bombyx mori, has shown that genes associated with the Hippo pathway were primarily expressed in gonads and imaginal discs. The RNA‐interference‐mediated silencing of Yki at the early wandering stage delayed B. mori development and ovary maturation, whereas baculovirus‐mediated overexpression at the late larval instar facilitated organ growth and accelerated metamorphosis. Here, we employed CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis to investigate the function of Yki in B. mori (BmYki) at the embryonic and early larval stages. Knocking out of BmYki led to reduced body size, moulting defects and, eventually, larval lethality. Sequence analysis of CRISPR/Cas9 mutants exhibited an array of deletions in BmYki. As a critical downstream effector of the Hippo kinase cassette, silencing of BmYki at the embryonic stage is indispensable and the consequence is lethal. Given that the Hippo signalling pathway is evolutionarily conserved, Yki has the potential to be a novel molecular target for genetic‐based pest management practices.
Dendritic cells and routing cargo into exosomes
Authors: Leone Dario A , Rees Andrew J , Kain Renate
Published: May 2018

Extracellular vesicles, released from cells, are important for intercellular communication. They are heterogeneous but fall into two broad categories based on origin and function: microvesicles formed by outward budding from the plasma membrane; and exosomes that originate as intraluminal vesicles in multivesicular endosomes that fuse with the plasma membrane to release them. Extracellular vesicles generally and exosomes in particular have powerful effects on specific immune responses, and recent advances highlight their potential therapeutic uses. Dendritic cells (DC) that have internalized antigen release exosomes that express MHC class II molecules loaded with antigenic peptides, co‐stimulatory molecules and intact antigen. Depending on the setting, these stimulate CD4 T‐cell proliferation either directly or only in the context of accessory antigen naïve DC. Here, we discuss the reasons for this; and review current knowledge about the loading of antigen, class II and other cargo into exosomes released by DC and other professional antigen‐presenting cells in the context of advances in exosome biology more generally.
Modeling Temporally Evolving and Spatially Globally Dependent Data
Authors: Porcu Emilio , Alegria Alfredo , Furrer Reinhard
Published: May 2018

The last decades have seen an unprecedented increase in the availability of data sets that are inherently global and temporally evolving, from remotely sensed networks to climate model ensembles. This paper provides an overview of statistical modeling techniques for space–time processes, where space is the sphere representing our planet. In particular, we make a distintion between (a) second order‐based approaches and (b) practical approaches to modeling temporally evolving global processes. The former approaches are based on the specification of a class of space–time covariance functions, with space being the two‐dimensional sphere. The latter are based on explicit description of the dynamics of the space–time process, that is, by specifying its evolution as a function of its past history with added spatially dependent noise.

We focus primarily on approach (a), for which the literature has been sparse. We provide new models of space–time covariance functions for random fields defined on spheres cross time. Practical approaches (b) are also discussed, with special emphasis on models built directly on the sphere, without projecting spherical coordinates onto the plane.

We present a case study focused on the analysis of air pollution from the 2015 wildfires in Equatorial Asia, an event that was classified as the year's worst environmental disaster. The paper finishes with a list of the main theoretical and applied research problems in the area, where we expect the statistical community to engage over the next decade.
Gender and Publishing in Nursing: A secondary analysis of h‐index ranking tables
Authors: Porter Sam
Published: May 2018

Aims

To analyse published ranking tables on academics’ h‐index scores to establish whether male nursing academics are disproportionately represented in these tables compared with their representation across the whole profession.

Background

Previous studies have identified a disproportionate representation of UK male nursing academics in publishing in comparison with their US counterparts.

Design

Secondary statistical analysis, which involved comparative correlation of proportions.

Methods

Four papers from the UK, Canada, and Australia containing h‐index ranking tables and published between 2010–2017, were reanalysed in June 2017 to identify authors’ sex. Pearson's chi‐squared test was applied to ascertain whether the number of men included in the tables was statistically proportionate to the number of men on the pertinent national professional register.

Findings

There was a disproportionate number of men with high h‐index scores in the UK and Canadian data sets, compared with the proportion of men on the pertinent national registers. The number of men in the Australian data set was proportionate with the number of men on the nursing register. There were a disproportionate number of male professors in UK universities.

Conclusion

The influence of men over nursing publishing in the UK and Canada outweighs their representation across the whole profession. Similarly, in the UK, men's representation in the professoriate is disproportionately great. However, the Australian results suggest that gender inequality is not inevitable and that it is possible to create more egalitarian nursing cultures.
Response: field cancerization and koebnerized skin tumours
Authors: Gambichler T. , Schmitz L.
Published: May 2018

Linked article: This article is commented on by L.L.C. Nwabudike et al., pp. e3–e4 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15084
Evaluation of food safety knowledge and microbial status of food contact surfaces in schools
Authors: Illés Csaba Bálint , Tóth András J. , Dunay Anna , Lehota József , Bittsánszky András
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the hygiene of food contact surfaces in 37 high school kitchens in order to identify the factors involved in the deficiencies found. The microbial status of kitchen surfaces (mesophilic aerobic bacterial count) and the hygienic sanitary knowledge (assessed by a questionnaire) of 158 food handlers were evaluated. The microbial count was determined by conventional plating methods and by a redox potential‐based testing method. Large differences regarding microbial count on food contact surfaces were found among the kitchens. In connection with the unfavorable results, the food hygiene knowledge level of kitchen workers was unsatisfactory. The microbial profile assessment of a catering unit largely depends on the efficiency of the food safety management system used, therefore the level of microbial contamination can be used as an indicator. The results showed that the hygienic‐sanitary knowledge of food handlers highly affects food safety standards in public kitchens.

Practical applications

The microbial profile of food contact surfaces is a suitable indicator of a food safety management system with objective results that are easily interpreted. Recurrent unsatisfactory results can indicate failures in some or all areas of the food safety management systems. This study shows that in most cases these failures are related to the food handler's knowledge. The improvement of food handler's professional knowledge is an effective way to improve food safety levels in catering units.
Good practices and microbiological quality of food contact surfaces in public school kitchens
Authors: da Vitória Alyne Gomes , de Souza Couto Oliveira Jhenifer , de Faria Carolina Perim , de São José Jackline Freitas Brilhante
Published: May 2018

The objective of this work was to analyze the hygienic and sanitary conditions of 52 school kitchens and to investigate the microbiological contamination of surfaces that contact food. A specific checklist was used to classify the units' health risk. Microbiological samples were collected from utensils, bench, and equipment in 10 units to evaluate the contamination levels of these surfaces. In total, 3.8% of the evaluated units had a very low health risk, and 61.5% had a low sanitary risk, indicating that most of the sites were adequately sanitary. Important failures have been identified in the block of buildings and facilities. Inadequacies related to hand hygiene, the absence of the manual of good practices and environmental hygiene were also highlighted. Microbiological analyses resulted in high counts of aerobic mesophiles and enterobacteria. Intervention with the involvement of all the actors of the National School Feeding Program is suggested for improving the situation.

Practical applications

This study is important, since it carried out the survey of the information regarding the adoption of good practices and sanitary conditions in the food production in the school environment, considering the relevance of the subject and vulnerability of the attended public. In this way, such information may guide corrective and preventive actions in the face of observed situations.
Pbx loss in cranial neural crest, unlike in epithelium, results in cleft palate only and a broader midface
Authors: Welsh Ian C. , Hart James , Brown Joel M. , Hansen Karissa , Rocha Marques Marcelo , Aho Robert J. , Grishina Irina , Hurtado Romulo , Herzlinger Doris , Ferretti Elisabetta , Garcia‐Garcia Maria J. , Selleri Licia
Published: May 2018

Orofacial clefting represents the most common craniofacial birth defect. Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is genetically distinct from cleft palate only (CPO). Numerous transcription factors (TFs) regulate normal development of the midface, comprising the premaxilla, maxilla and palatine bones, through control of basic cellular behaviors. Within the Pbx family of genes encoding Three Amino‐acid Loop Extension (TALE) homeodomain‐containing TFs, we previously established that in the mouse, Pbx1 plays a preeminent role in midfacial morphogenesis, and Pbx2 and Pbx3 execute collaborative functions in domains of coexpression. We also reported that Pbx1 loss from cephalic epithelial domains, on a Pbx2‐ or Pbx3‐deficient background, results in CL/P via disruption of a regulatory network that controls apoptosis at the seam of frontonasal and maxillary process fusion. Conversely, Pbx1 loss in cranial neural crest cell (CNCC)‐derived mesenchyme on a Pbx2‐deficient background results in CPO, a phenotype not yet characterized. In this study, we provide in‐depth analysis of PBX1 and PBX2 protein localization from early stages of midfacial morphogenesis throughout development of the secondary palate. We further establish CNCC‐specific roles of PBX TFs and describe the developmental abnormalities resulting from their loss in the murine embryonic secondary palate. Additionally, we compare and contrast the phenotypes arising from PBX1 loss in CNCC with those caused by its loss in the epithelium and show that CNCC‐specific Pbx1 deletion affects only later secondary palate morphogenesis. Moreover, CNCC mutants exhibit perturbed rostro‐caudal organization and broadening of the midfacial complex. Proliferation defects are pronounced in CNCC mutants at gestational day (E)12.5, suggesting altered proliferation of mutant palatal progenitor cells, consistent with roles of PBX factors in maintaining progenitor cell state. Although the craniofacial skeletal abnormalities in CNCC mutants do not result from overt patterning defects, osteogenesis is delayed, underscoring a critical role of PBX factors in CNCC morphogenesis and differentiation. Overall, the characterization of tissue‐specific Pbx loss‐of‐function mouse models with orofacial clefting establishes these strains as unique tools to further dissect the complexities of this congenital craniofacial malformation. This study closely links PBX TALE homeodomain proteins to the variation in maxillary shape and size that occurs in pathological settings and during evolution of midfacial morphology.