bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prostaglandin E2 and its receptor EP2 trigger signaling that contributes to YAP‐mediated cell competition
Authors: Ishihara Erika , Nagaoka Yuya , Okuno Toshiaki , Kofuji Satoshi , Ishigami‐Yuasa Mari , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Kamimura Kenya , Terai Shuji , Yokomizo Takehiko , Sugimoto Yukihiko , Fujita Yasuyuki , Suzuki Akira , Nishina Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

Cell competition is a biological process by which unfit cells are eliminated from “cell society.” We previously showed that cultured mammalian epithelial Madin‐Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells expressing constitutively active YAP were eliminated by apical extrusion when surrounded by “normal” MDCK cells. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the elimination of active YAP‐expressing cells was unknown. Here, we used high‐throughput chemical compound screening to identify cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) as a key molecule triggering cell competition. Our work shows that COX‐2‐mediated PGE2 secretion engages its receptor EP2 on abnormal and nearby normal cells. This engagement of EP2 triggers downstream signaling via an adenylyl cyclase‐cyclic AMP‐PKA pathway that, in the presence of active YAP, induces E‐cadherin internalization leading to apical extrusion. Thus, COX‐2‐induced PGE2 appears a warning signal to both abnormal and surrounding normal cells to drive cell competition.
OPN4 belongs to the photosensitive system of the human skin
Authors: Kusumoto Junya , Takeo Makoto , Hashikawa Kazunobu , Komori Takahide , Tsuji Takashi , Terashi Hiroto , Sakakibara Shunsuke
Published: January 2020

The human skin has previously been described to be affected by light; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. OPN4 (melanopsin) expression was first identified in the skin of amphibians; however, whether it is also expressed and functioned in the human skin has not yet been identified. Here, we show that OPN4 was expressed in the human skin tissue and cultures of isolated keratinocytes, melanocytes and fibroblasts. Additionally, Ca2+ influx in vitro and ex vivo and phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 in human fibroblasts were observed by stimulation of blue light irradiation. Notably, our findings showed that this Ca2+ influx and phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 are promoted in an intensity‐dependent manner, indicating that the light signal is converted to an intracellular signal via OPN4 in the human skin. Overall, in this study we showed that the human skin functions as a photoreceptor by demonstrating that in human skin, the photoreceptive protein was expressed, and photoreception was conducted via photoreceptive protein.
Mesenchymal tumours with RREB1–MRTFB fusion involving the mediastinum: extra‐glossal ectomesenchymal chondromyxoid tumours?
Authors: Makise Naohiro , Mori Taisuke , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Nakagawa Kazuo , Ryo Eijitsu , Nakajima Jun , Kohsaka Shinji , Mano Hiroyuki , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Yoshida Akihiko , Ushiku Tetsuo
Published: January 2020

Aims

Ectomesenchymal chondromyxoid tumour (ECT) is a rare benign intraoral tumour which almost exclusively presents as a small mass of the anterior dorsal tongue. Recently, the RREB1–MRTFB (previously known as MKL2) fusion gene has been identified in 90% of ECTs, all located in the tongue, emphasising its genetic distinctiveness. Here, we report two mesenchymal tumours involving the superior mediastinum of adult women with RREB1–MRTFB fusions.

Methods and results

Both tumours presented as well‐circumscribed paravertebral masses that were clinically suspected to be schwannoma. After fragmented resection, recurrence was not observed at 27 and 18 months. Although tumours were originally unclassifiable, next‐generation sequencing detected identical RREB1 (exon 8)–MRTFB (exon 11) fusion transcripts, which were validated by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction, Sanger sequencing, and fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation. Both tumours shared hyalinised areas with round cells embedded in a cord or reticular manner. The tumour cells showed mild nuclear atypia of possible degenerative type with very low mitotic activity, and were at least focally positive for S100, glial fibrillary acidic protein, smooth muscle actin and epithelial membrane antigen. Overall, these findings suggest that they may represent previously undescribed extra‐glossal ECT involving the mediastinum. However, the histology was not classic for ECT, because that in case 2 was predominated by storiform growth of spindle cells, whereas the tumour in case 1 lacked myxoid change.

Conclusions

We have provided the first evidence that RREB1–MRTFB fusion is not limited to tumours in the head region, and whether such tumours represent extra‐glossal ECTs requires further research.
Glass anodes for lithium ion batteries: Insight from the structural evolution during discharging/charging
Authors: Zhang Yanfei
Published: January 2020

Glasses are promising anode materials for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) owing to their unique open network structures and the absence of grain boundaries. Upon discharging/charging, both the capacity and cycle life of the glass anodes can be affected through their structural evolutions. This review article highlights the recent research advances in improving and understanding the electrochemical performances of various types of glass anodes. Both the SnO‐ and GeO2‐based glass anodes suffer from the high initial capacity loss and short cycle life. The origin of the first‐cycle irreversible capacity loss is discussed primarily from the structural evolution with cycles, that is, forming metallic Sn/Ge in the glass matrix. Recently, significant breakthroughs have been achieved in enhancing cycling stability and capacity of the anode materials by means of the disorder‐order engineering with respect to the V2O5–TeO2 glass systems. In addition, the most recent advances in the applications of dual‐phase glass anodes in LiBs are reviewed. This article gives an overview of the applications of the glass anodes, as well as deals with the structural factors affecting their electrochemical performances. A deeper understanding of these factors will enable further steps toward improvement and application of the glass anodes for LIBs.
Emotionality and pleasantness of mixed‐emotion stimuli: The role of language, modality, and emotional intelligence
Authors: Mavrou Irini , Dewaele Jean‐Marc
Published: January 2020

The study aimed to explore how 174 Spanish first language (L1) and foreign language (LX) users perceive emotionality and pleasantness in audiovisual and purely visual material eliciting blended emotions, and whether cultural background and Trait Emotional Intelligence (EI) are linked to emotion perception. Overall, LX users tended to provide higher ratings of emotionality and pleasantness than L1 users, suggesting that they might be aware of the LX detachment effect and overcompensate when providing emotion perception ratings. American participants rated the stimuli as more emotional and pleasant than Asian participants regardless of modality of presentation. On the other hand, Trait EI turned out to be unrelated to emotionality and pleasantness contrary to previous evidence suggesting a positive role of EI in decoding emotions.
Long‐term outcomes of dialysis‐dependent chronic kidney disease patients requiring critical care: an observational matched cohort study
Authors: Secombe Paul , Moynihan Gerard , McAnulty Greg ,   the Alice Springs Hospital Renal‐ICU Research Group
Published: January 2020

Background

The prevalence of dialysis‐dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD5D) patients in Australia is increasing.

Aims

To describe the long‐term outcome and resource utilisation of CKD5D patients requiring critical care admission.

Methods

Retrospective matched cohort study conducted in the intensive care unit (ICU) of Alice Springs Hospital. CKD5D patients admitted between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2013 were matched by sex, age, Indigenous status and APACHE III score in a 1:1 ratio with a patient without CKD5D. Primary outcome was mortality censored at 31 December 2018, to allow a minimum 5‐year follow up. Secondary outcomes explored resource use including ICU and hospital length of stay (LoS).

Results

During the study period, 178 (9%) admissions were coded as having CKD5D, 148 (83%) of which were successfully matched. CKD5D patients were older (52 vs 49 years, P < 0.01), with more chronic cardiovascular disease (34 vs 23%, P < 0.01). Five‐year mortality was similar (49.5 vs 41.5%, P = 0.28), with a significantly longer time to death in the CKD5D cohort (1179 vs 341 days, P < 0.01). CKD5D patients had a shorter median ICU LoS (1.9 vs 3.0 days, P < 0.01) and lower rates of mechanical ventilation (12.2 vs 35.4%, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

CKD5D patients frequently require intensive care during acute illness. While they have an equivalent 5‐year survival rate, time to death is longer suggesting mortality is related to chronic disease progression rather than their acute illness. These results suggest the presence of CKD5D in isolation should not be a reason to limit critical care.
Shifting factor—A new paradigm for studying the rheology of cementitious suspensions
Authors: Mantellato Sara , Flatt Robert J.
Published: January 2020

One of the main challenges when studying the rheology of cementitious systems is that cement particles are large and susceptible to gravity, in particular in dispersed systems. This implies that the range of volume fractions over which rheological properties of cement pastes can be measured is limited, as too high water content causes segregation and too low water content results in pastes that are too cohesive to measure. Consequently, the impact of the volume fraction of solids on yield stress is still not reliably established. A similar situation is encountered when studying cementitious systems with superplasticizers, whose impact is highly dependent on dosage. An important issue here is that admixture effects cannot be reliably established with respect to nonadmixed references as the latter ones can most often not be measured at the volume fractions for which admixed pastes do not segregate. The “Shifting factor” approach presented in this paper overcomes this long‐standing issue establishing exponential dependences of yield stress both with respect to volume fraction and admixture adsorption.
Determinants of initial goodwill overstatement in affiliated and non‐affiliated mergers
Authors: Ahn Sunghee , Cheon Youngsoon S. , Kim Moonchul
Published: January 2020

This study examines the determinants of goodwill overstatement at the time of mergers in a Korean setting. In the Korean M&A market, there are two types of mergers: mergers between independent companies (non‐affiliated mergers) and mergers between companies under common control (affiliated mergers). This study extends the literature by examining the factors likely to cause goodwill overstatement in both types of mergers. The results reveal that in affiliated mergers, goodwill at the time of a merger tends to be overstated when controlling owners have higher equity ownership in the target than in the acquirer. By contrast, information uncertainty in the target value causes initial goodwill overstatement in non‐affiliated mergers. We also find that monitoring of independent institutional investors with concentrated holdings against overpaying for the target is more pronounced when controlling owners in affiliated mergers have incentives to overpay for the target. In affiliated mergers, acquirers tend to write off goodwill more frequently when controlling owners have higher equity ownership in the target than in the acquirer. In non‐affiliated mergers, information uncertainty in the target value is significantly associated with subsequent goodwill write‐offs. These results suggest that the type of merger has important consequences for initial goodwill recognition and subsequent impairment.
The expression and biological function of chemokine CXCL12 and receptor CXCR4/CXCR7 in placenta accreta spectrum disorders
Authors: Long Yu , Jiang Yonghua , Zeng Jingjing , Dang Yiwu , Chen Yue , Lin Jueying , Wei Hongwei , Xia Hongwei , Long Junqing , Luo Cuizhen , Chen Zhiwei , Huang Yaling , Li MuJun
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Investigation of mechanism related to excessive invasion of trophoblast cells in placenta accreta spectrum disorders (PAS) provides more strategies and ideas for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Materials and Methods

Blood and placental samples were collected from included patients. The distribution and expression of CXCL12, CXCR4 and CXCR7 proteins in the paraffin of placental tissue in the included cases were analysed, and we analyse the downstream pathways or key proteins involved in cell invasion.

Results

Firstly, our results determined that CXCL12 and CXCR4/CXCR7 were increased in extravillous trophoblastic cell (CXCL12: P < .001; CXCR4: P < .001; CXCR7: P < .001), and the expression levels were closely related to the invasion depth of trophoblastic cells. Secondly, CXCL12 has the potential to become a biochemical indicator of PAS since the high expression of placental trophoblast CXCL12 may be an important source of blood CXCL12. Using lentivirus‐mediated RNA interference and overexpression assay, it was found that both chemokine CXCL12 and receptor CXCR4/CXCR7 are associated with regulation of trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Further results proved that through the activating the phosphorylation and increasing the expression of MLC and AKT proteins in the Rho/rock, PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, CXCL12, CXCR4 and CXCR7 could up‐regulate the expression of RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42 proteins to promote the migration and invasion of extravillous trophoblastic cell and ultimately formate the placenta accrete compare to the normal placenta.

Conclusions

Our research proved that trophoblasts may contribute to a PAS‐associated increase in CXCL12 levels in maternal blood. CXCL12 is not only associated with biological roles of PAS, but may also be potential for prediction of PAS.
Increased risk of major depressive disorder among probands with psoriasis and unaffected siblings: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Dai Y.‐X. , Chen C.‐C. , Tai Y.‐H. , Chang Y.‐T. , Chen T.‐J. , Chen M.‐H.
Published: January 2020

Background

Previous studies have shown that patients with psoriasis have a higher risk of depression. However, the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD) among unaffected siblings of psoriasis probands remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the risk of MDD among probands with psoriasis and unaffected siblings.

Methods

We selected subjects from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan. Subjects were followed up from 01 January 1996 until a diagnosis of MDD, death or 31 December 2011. The Breslow–Cox model was used to calculate the adjusted relative risk (aRR).

Results

This study included 1094 probands with psoriasis, 1202 unaffected siblings and 4808 matched controls. Overall, 11.9% of the psoriasis probands (n = 130) and 2.5% of the unaffected siblings (n = 30) developed MDD, as compared with 1.1% of the controls (n = 52). Compared with controls, probands with psoriasis and unaffected siblings had aRRs of 10.60 [95% confidence interval (CI): 7.73–14.52] and 2.17 (95% CI: 1.44–3.28), respectively, for MDD.

Conclusions

Probands with psoriasis and unaffected siblings have an increased risk of subsequently developing MDD. Further studies are needed to investigate the shared familial mechanisms underlying psoriasis and MDD.
Filaggrin loss‐of‐function mutations and levels of filaggrin degradation products in adult patients with atopic dermatitis in Croatia
Authors: Jurakic Toncic R. , Kezic S. , Jakasa I. , Ljubojevic Hadzavdic S. , Balic A. , Petkovic M. , Pavicic B. , Zuzul K. , Marinovic B.
Published: January 2020

Background

FLG loss‐of‐function mutations (FLG LOF) represent the strongest genetic risk factor for atopic dermatitis (AD) and are associated with early‐onset and more severe disease. The prevalence of FLG mutations varies greatly across Europe. At present, there are no data on FLG mutation prevalence in Croatian AD patients.

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of FLG LOF mutations in adult patients with AD and healthy controls. Next to measure the stratum corneum (SC) levels of filaggrin degradation products (NMF), transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and pH in lesional and non‐lesional skin.

Methods

We recruited 100 AD patients with moderate to severe disease and 50 healthy controls. They were screened for three FLG mutations (R501X, 2282del4 and R2447X). Samples of the SC for NMF analysis were collected by adhesive tapes. TEWL and skin surface pH levels were determined on the lesional and non‐lesional skin.

Results

The combined mutation frequency was 4% in the AD group, and all patients with FLG mutations were homozygous carriers. In the control group, no mutations were found. The most common FLG mutation in AD patients was 2282del4 (3%), followed by R501X (1%). As compared to healthy controls, NMF values were strongly reduced in lesional skin; however, no significant difference was found for non‐lesional skin. AD patients had elevated TEWL in both lesional and non‐lesional skin. The same pattern was observed for pH.

Conclusions

Our study expands understanding of the landscape of FLG mutations in the European population. The low frequency of FLG mutations and similar levels of filaggrin degradation products in healthy controls and in non‐lesional skin of AD patients suggest that filaggrin deficiency does not confer a major risk for AD in the Croatian population.
High‐resolution imaging of the human incudostapedial joint using synchrotron‐radiation phase‐contrast imaging
Authors: ROHANI S.A. , ALLEN D. , GARE B. , ZHU N. , AGRAWAL S. , LADAK H.
Published: January 2020

The incudostapedial joint (ISJ) of the middle ear is important for proper transmission of sound energy to the cochlea. Recently, the biomechanics of the ISJ have been investigated using finite‐element (FE) modelling, using simplified geometry. The objective of the present study was to investigate the feasibility of synchrotron‐radiation phase‐contrast imaging (SR‐PCI) in visualising the ISJ ultrastructure. Three human cadaveric ISJs were dissected and scanned using SR‐PCI at 0.9 µm isotropic voxel size. One of the samples was previously scanned at 9 µm voxel size. The images were visually compared and contrast‐to‐noise ratios (CNRs) were calculated (of both bone and soft tissues) for quantitative comparisons. The ISJ ultrastructure as well as adjacent bone and soft tissues were clearly visible in images with a 0.9 µm voxel size. The CNRs of the 0.9 µm images were relatively lower than those of the 9 µm scans, while the ratio of bone to soft tissue CNRs were higher, indicating better discernibility of bone from soft tissue in the 0.9 µm scans. This study was the first known attempt to image the ISJ ultrastructure using an SR‐PCI scanner at submicron voxel size and results suggest that this method was successful. Future studies are needed to optimise the contrast and test the feasibility of imaging the ISJ in situ.

Lay Description

The human middle ear consists of the eardrum, three small bones (the malleus, incus and stapes) and two joints connecting the bones (the incudostapedial joint and the incudomallear joint). The role of the middle ear is to amplify and transfer sound energy to the cochlea, the end organ of hearing. The incudostapedial joint (ISJ) of the middle ear is a synovial joint which is important for proper transmission of sound energy to the cochlea. Similar to other synovial joints it consists of meniscus, fluid and articulating surfaces. Recently, the biomechanics of the ISJ have been investigated using computational models, using grossly simplified geometry. Synchrotron radiation phase contrast imaging (SR‐PCI) is a high‐resolution imaging technique used to visualise small structures in three dimensions. The objective of the present study was to investigate the feasibility of using SR‐PCI in visualising the ISJ ultrastructure. Three human cadaveric ISJs were dissected and scanned using SR‐PCI at 0.9 µm isotropic voxel size. One of the samples was previously scanned at 9 µm voxel size. The images were both qualitatively and quantitatively compared. This study was the first known attempt to image the ISJ ultrastructure using an SR‐PCI scanner at submicron voxel size and results suggest that this method was successful. Future studies are needed to optimise the contrast and feasibility of imaging the ISJ in situ.
Subcision: Indications, adverse reactions, and pearls
Authors: Dadkhahfar Sahar , Robati Reza M. , Gheisari Mehdi , Moravvej Hamideh
Published: January 2020

Background

Subcision, also known as subcutaneous incisionless surgery, is a surgical intervention used to treat a variety of skin conditions including atrophic acne scars, depressed scars, cellulite, and wrinkles.

Aims

We plan to prepare a review article about the indications of subcision, its adverse reactions, and pearls.

Patients/Methods

We searched the literature for the information about subcision and its applications from papers published up to March 2019. The search was performed through the databases of the National Library of Medicine.

Results

After a thorough review of the published papers about subcision, we finally chose to review 40 articles that had proper sample size and design to prepare this review article. Twenty‐one papers were related to the application of subcision in the treatment of acne scar and other scars. Four articles were about the application of subcision to treat cellulite, and eight articles were related to other applications of subcision such as the treatment of striae or nasolabial fold. The remaining seven articles include published review papers about subcision or acne scar classification.

Conclusion

Subcision seems to be effective on various skin conditions including acne scar, other depressed scars, and cellulite. It is easy to apply and inexpensive with short downtime and no significant complications. Subcision needs proper technique and adequate experience.
Pain relief from nonpharmacological interventions in the intensive care unit: A scoping review
Authors: Sandvik Reidun K. , Olsen Brita F. , Rygh Lars‐Jørgen , Moi Asgjerd Litlere
Published: January 2020

Aims and Objectives

To describe what is known from the existing literature on nonpharmacological interventions targeting pain in patients admitted to the ICU.

Background

Patients receiving intensive care nursing are exposed to a wide range of pain provoking tissue damage, diseases, surgery and other medical procedures in addition to the pain caused by nursing care procedures. The present shift to light sedation to improve patient outcomes and comfort underscores the need for effective pain management. Opioids are the mainstay for treating pain in the ICUs, whereas nonpharmacological treatments are understudied and possibly under‐used.

Method

A scoping review was undertaken using five of the six steps in the Arksey and O´Malley framework: (a) identification of the research question, (b) identification of relevant studies, (c) study selection, (d) charting the data and (e) collating, summarising and reporting the results. CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, BMJ Best Practice, British Nursing Index and AMED databases were searched using relevant keywords to capture extensive evidence. Data were analysed using the six‐step criteria for scoping reviews suggested by Arksey and O´Malley for data extraction. To ensure quality and transparency, we enclosed the relevant Equator checklist PRISMA.

Results

Our search yielded 10,985 articles of which 12 studies were included. Tools for pain assessments were VAS, NRS, ESAS and BPS. Interventions explored were hypnosis, simple massage, distraction, relaxation, spiritual care, harp music, music therapy, listening to natural sounds, passive exercise, acupuncture, ice packs and emotional support. Reduction in pain intensity was conferred for hypnosis, acupuncture and natural sounds.

Conclusion

The findings support further investigations of acupuncture, hypnosis and listening to natural sounds.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The main finding suggests the use of comprehensive multimodal interventions to investigate the effects of nonpharmacological treatment protocols on pain intensity, pain proportion and the impact on opioid consumption and sedation requirements.
Sunk exporting costs and export market coverage
Authors: Fichera Eleonora , Shevtsova Yevgeniya
Published: January 2020

This paper provides evidence on the role of sunk costs in the market expansion of continuing exporters, explicitly accounting for the number of target export destinations. We use dynamic count data models to address the discrete non‐negative nature and skewed distribution of the dependent variable, the number of export markets. By examining the trade patterns of individual firms, we find that past export market coverage significantly improves the ability of Ukrainian exporters for further expansion. The results also indicate that information spillovers from neighbouring firms and foreign ownership are not important factors for the market expansion of incumbent exporters.
Is the central‐marginal hypothesis a general rule? Evidence from three distributions of an expanding mangrove species, Avicennia germinans (L.) L
Authors: Kennedy John Paul , Preziosi Richard F. , Rowntree Jennifer K. , Feller Ilka C.
Published: January 2020

The central‐marginal hypothesis (CMH) posits that range margins exhibit less genetic diversity and greater inter‐population genetic differentiation compared to range cores. CMH predictions are based on long‐held “abundant‐centre” assumptions of a decline in ecological conditions and abundances towards range margins. Although much empirical research has confirmed CMH, exceptions remain almost as common. We contend that mangroves provide a model system to test CMH that alleviates common confounding factors and may help clarify this lack of consensus. Here, we document changes in black mangrove (Avicennia germinans) population genetics with 12 nuclear microsatellite loci along three replicate coastlines in the United States (only two of three conform to underlying “abundant‐centre” assumptions). We then test an implicit prediction of CMH (reduced genetic diversity may constrain adaptation at range margins) by measuring functional traits of leaves associated with cold tolerance, the climatic factor that controls these mangrove distributional limits. CMH predictions were confirmed only along the coastlines that conform to “abundant‐centre” assumptions and, in contrast to theory, range margin A. germinans exhibited functional traits consistent with greater cold tolerance compared to range cores. These findings support previous accounts that CMH may not be a general rule across species and that reduced neutral genetic diversity at range margins may not be a constraint to shifts in functional trait variation along climatic gradients.
Structural evolution drives diversification of the large LRR‐RLK gene family
Authors: Man Jarrett , Gallagher Joseph P. , Bartlett Madelaine
Published: January 2020

Cells are continuously exposed to chemical signals that they must discriminate between and respond to appropriately. In embryophytes, the leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases (LRR‐RLKs) are signal receptors critical in development and defense. LRR‐RLKs have diversified to hundreds of genes in many plant genomes. Although intensively studied, a well‐resolved LRR‐RLK gene tree has remained elusive.

To resolve the LRR‐RLK gene tree, we developed an improved gene discovery method based on iterative hidden Markov model searching and phylogenetic inference. We used this method to infer complete gene trees for each of the LRR‐RLK subclades and reconstructed the deepest nodes of the full gene family.

We discovered that the LRR‐RLK gene family is even larger than previously thought, and that protein domain gains and losses are prevalent. These structural modifications, some of which likely predate embryophyte diversification, led to misclassification of some LRR‐RLK variants as members of other gene families. Our work corrects this misclassification.

Our results reveal ongoing structural evolution generating novel LRR‐RLK genes. These new genes are raw material for the diversification of signaling in development and defense. Our methods also enable phylogenetic reconstruction in any large gene family.
GsSnRK1 interplays with transcription factor GsERF7 from wild soybean to regulate soybean stress resistance
Authors: Feng Xu , Feng Peng , Yu Huilin , Yu Xingyu , Sun Qi , Liu Siyu , Minh Thuy Nguyen , Chen Jun , Wang Di , Zhang Qing , Cao Lei , Zhou Changmei , Li Qiang , Xiao Jialei , Zhong Shihua , Wang Aoxue , Wang Lijuan , Pan Hongyu , Ding Xiaodong
Published: January 2020

Although the function and regulation of SnRK1 have been studied in various plants, its molecular mechanisms in response to abiotic stresses are still elusive. In this work, we identified an AP2/ERF domain‐containing protein (designated GsERF7) interacting with GsSnRK1 from a wild soybean cDNA library. GsERF7 gene expressed dominantly in wild soybean roots and was responsive to ethylene, salt, and alkaline. GsERF7 bound GCC cis‐acting element and could be phosphorylated on S36 by GsSnRK1. GsERF7 phosphorylation facilitated its translocation from cytoplasm to nucleus and enhanced its transactivation activity. When coexpressed in the hairy roots of soybean seedlings, GsSnRK1(wt) and GsERF7(wt) promoted plants to generate higher tolerance to salt and alkaline stresses than their mutated species, suggesting that GsSnRK1 may function as a biochemical and genetic upstream kinase of GsERF7 to regulate plant adaptation to environmental stresses. Furthermore, the altered expression patterns of representative abiotic stress‐responsive and hormone‐synthetic genes were determined in transgenic soybean hairy roots after stress treatments. These results will aid our understanding of molecular mechanism of how SnRK1 kinase plays a cardinal role in regulating plant stress resistances through activating the biological functions of downstream factors.
Far‐red photons have equivalent efficiency to traditional photosynthetic photons: Implications for redefining photosynthetically active radiation
Authors: Zhen Shuyang , Bugbee Bruce
Published: January 2020

Far‐red photons (701–750 nm) are abundant in sunlight but are considered inactive for photosynthesis and are thus excluded from the definition of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR; 400–700 nm). Several recent studies have shown that far‐red photons synergistically interact with shorter wavelength photons to increase leaf photochemical efficiency. The value of far‐red photons in canopy photosynthesis has not been studied. Here, we report the effects of far‐red photons on single leaf and canopy photosynthesis in 14 diverse crop species. Adding far‐red photons (up to 40%) to a background of shorter wavelength photons caused an increase in canopy photosynthesis equal to adding 400–700 nm photons. Far‐red alone minimally increased photosynthesis. This indicates that far‐red photons are equally efficient at driving canopy photosynthesis when acting synergistically with traditionally defined photosynthetic photons. Measurements made using LEDs with peak wavelength of 711, 723, or 746 nm showed that the magnitude of the effect was less at longer wavelengths. The consistent response among diverse species indicates that the mechanism is common in higher plants. These results suggest that far‐red photons (701–750 nm) should be included in the definition of PAR.
The Fundamental Determinants of Economic Inequality in Average Income Across Countries: The Declining Role of Political Institutions
Authors: Hussey Andrew J. , Jetter Michael , McWilliam Dianne
Published: January 2020

Within the fundamental determinants of cross‐country income inequality, political institutions represent a hallmark factor that societies can influence. Focusing on the portion of inequality explainable by differences in political institutions, we decompose annual cross‐country Gini coefficients from 1960–2012. Although inequality has marginally decreased since 1988, the portion that cannot be explained by political institutions has increased markedly, with the explanatory power of institutions falling rapidly from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. This result prevails when using alternative variables, weightings, samples, and controls, and appears to be unlikely to be driven by contemporary regional events alone. However, we find that the link between institutions and income levels has become increasingly nonlinear as countries with the most inclusive political institutions enjoy even higher incomes than before. Our results imply that, if we hold societies responsible for their political institutions, cross‐country inequality has become notably less fair since the late 1980s.
Sumca: Simple, Unified, Monte-Carlo-assisted Approach to Second-Order Unbiased Mean-Squared Prediction Error Estimation
Authors: Jiang Jiming , Torabi Mahmoud
Published: January 2020

We propose a simple, unified, Monte-Carlo-assisted approach (called ‘Sumca’) to second-order unbiased estimation of the mean-squared prediction error (MSPE) of a small area predictor. The MSPE estimator proposed is easy to derive, has a simple expression and applies to a broad range of predictors that include the traditional empirical best linear unbiased predictor, empirical best predictor and post-model-selection empirical best linear unbiased predictor and empirical best predictor as special cases. Furthermore, the leading term of the MSPE estimator proposed is guaranteed positive; the lower order term corresponds to a bias correction, which can be evaluated via a Monte Carlo method. The computational burden for the Monte Carlo evaluation is much less, compared with other Monte-Carlo-based methods that have been used for producing second-order unbiased MSPE estimators, such as the double bootstrap and Monte Carlo jackknife. The Sumca estimator also has a nice stability feature. Theoretical and empirical results demonstrate properties and advantages of the Sumca estimator.
Kinetic improvement of an algal diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 via fusion with an acyl‐CoA binding protein
Authors: Xu Yang , Caldo Kristian Mark P. , Falarz Lucas , Jayawardhane Kethmi , Chen Guanqun
Published: January 2020

Microalgal oils in the form of triacylglycerols (TAGs) are broadly used as nutritional supplements and biofuels. Diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) catalyzes the final step of acyl‐CoA‐dependent biosynthesis of TAG, and is considered a key target for manipulating oil production. Although a growing number of DGAT1s have been identified and over‐expressed in some algal species, the detailed structure−function relationship, as well as the improvement of DGAT1 performance via protein engineering, remain largely untapped. Here, we explored the structure−function features of the hydrophilic N‐terminal domain of DGAT1 from the green microalga Chromochloris zofingiensis (CzDGAT1). The results indicated that the N‐terminal domain of CzDGAT1 was less disordered than those of the higher eukaryotic enzymes and its partial truncation or complete removal could substantially decrease enzyme activity, suggesting its possible role in maintaining enzyme performance. Although the N‐terminal domains of animal and plant DGAT1s were previously found to bind acyl‐CoAs, replacement of CzDGAT1 N‐terminus by an acyl‐CoA binding protein (ACBP) could not restore enzyme activity. Interestingly, the fusion of ACBP to the N‐terminus of the full‐length CzDGAT1 could enhance the enzyme affinity for acyl‐CoAs and augment protein accumulation levels, which ultimately drove oil accumulation in yeast cells and tobacco leaves to higher levels than the full‐length CzDGAT1. Overall, our findings unravel the distinct features of the N‐terminus of algal DGAT1 and provide a strategy to engineer enhanced performance in DGAT1 via protein fusion, which may open a vista in generating improved membrane‐bound acyl‐CoA‐dependent enzymes and boosting oil biosynthesis in plants and oleaginous microorganisms.
The biochemistry of headgroup exchange during triacylglycerol synthesis in canola
Authors: Bai Shuangyi , Wallis James G. , Denolf Peter , Engelen Steven , Bengtsson Jesse D. , Van Thournout Michel , Dierickx Jo , Haesendonckx Boris , Browse John
Published: January 2020

Many pathways of primary metabolism are substantially conserved within and across plant families. However, significant differences in organization and fluxes through a reaction network may occur, even between plants in closely related genera. Assessing and understanding these differences is key to appreciating metabolic diversity, and to attempts to engineer plant metabolism for higher crop yields and desired product profiles. To better understand lipid metabolism and seed oil synthesis in canola (Brassica napus), we have characterized four canola homologues of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) ROD1 gene. AtROD1 encodes phosphatidylcholine:diacylglycerol cholinephosphotransferase (PDCT), the enzyme that catalyzes a major flux of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in oil synthesis. Assays in yeast indicated that only two of the canola genes, BnROD1.A3 and BnROD1.C3, encode active isozymes of PDCT, and these genes are strongly expressed during the period of seed oil synthesis. Loss of expression of BnROD1.A3 and BnROD1.C3 in a double mutant, or by RNA interference, reduced the PUFA content of the oil to 26.6% compared with 32.5% in the wild type. These results indicate that ROD1 isozymes in canola are responsible for less than 20% of the PUFAs that accumulate in the seed oil compared with 40% in Arabidopsis. Our results demonstrate the care needed when translating results from a model species to crop plants.
Political economy of the US–Mexican tomato trade agreement
Authors: Devadoss Stephen , Kosse Elijah
Published: January 2020

We develop a political economy model to analyse the US–Mexican tomato trade agreement by treating the minimum import price as a negotiated settlement. We incorporate the special characteristics of the US–Mexican tomato dispute, namely trade among large countries, the role of competing fresh and processed tomato lobbies, quota revenues accruing to Mexican producers, bargaining for a minimum import price rather than a tariff, and the role of the Canadian tomato market. We show the importance of the size of the lobby group's supply, the weight elected officials' place on national welfare, and the elasticities of export supply and import demand in determining the optimal price wedge. For the United States, larger fresh tomato or cherry–grape tomato supply intensifies the degree of protection awarded to US growers, while US processors work to mitigate this effect. From Mexico's perspective, larger Mexican fresh or cherry–grape output induces a push towards free trade due to the agreement's depressing effect on Mexican prices, while Mexican processors and quota revenues exacerbate the price wedge.
Postmortem urinary tract changes in cats with urethral obstruction
Authors: Mauro Katie D. , Bradley Charles W. , Drobatz Kenneth J.
Published: January 2020

Objective

To report the gross and histopathological postmortem findings of the urinary tract and compare them to clinical severity of disease in cats with urethral obstruction (UO).

Design

Retrospective, observational, descriptive study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Fourteen cats from 2000 to 2014 with UO that had a complete postmortem examination.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Bladder lesions were moderate‐severe in 10 of 14 (71%) and mild in 4 of 14 (29%) cats. Bladder lesions were diffuse in 8 of 14 (57%), multifocal in 3 of 14 (21%), and focal in 3 of 14 (21%) cats. Lymphocytic cystitis was noted in 11 of 14 cats (78%), and neutrophilic cystitis was noted in 10 of 14 (71%) bladders. Urethral lesions were moderate‐severe in 4 of 14 (29%), mild in 4 of 14 (29%), and no urethral lesions were identified in 6 of 14 (43%) cats. Ureteral lesions were mild in 1 of 14 (7%), and no ureteral lesions were identified in 13 of 14 (93%) cats. There were moderate‐severe histopathological renal lesions in 5 of 14 cats (36%), mild renal lesions in 6 of 14 (43%), and no renal lesions were identified in 3 of 14 cats (21%). Renal lesions were multifocal in 10 of 14 (71%) and regional in 1 of 14 cats (7%). In the kidneys, the most common inflammatory infiltrate was lymphoplasmacytic. The severity of urethral lesions was not associated with the severity of bladder lesions (P = 1.0). Hyperkalemia paralleled the severity of bladder (P = 0.02) and renal lesions (P = 0.04). An association between the severity of bladder lesions and degree of azotemia could not be determined due to small sample size and removal of the most azotemic cats.

Conclusions

Substantial renal and urinary bladder inflammatory lesions were found in cats with UO. The severity of these findings paralleled the severity of blood potassium concentrations.
Déficit de factor VII Reporte de dos casos en el Servicio de Hematooncología Pediátrica del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio
Authors: Álvarez Angélica , Márquez Julia , Vargas Jhair , Vizcaíno Martha , De los Reyes Iliana , Guzmán Carolina
Published: January 2020

La deficiencia del factor VII es una enfermedad hemorrágica rara, causada por la disminución o ausencia de este factor de la coagulación; menos de 200 casos se han reportado desde que se describió por primera vez en 1951.  Es un trastorno autonómico recesivo que puede afectar a varios miembros de una familia. Su prevalencia es de 1:500.000 (0,5% de todos los trastornos hereditarios de la coagulación) y su distribución es igual entre los sexos. El defecto está localizado en el cromosoma 13q34. Sólo los individuos homocigotos o heterocigotos compuestos, es decir, que son portadores de dos mutaciones diferentes, presentan manifestaciones hemorrágicas. Los heterocigotos son asintomáticos.  El déficit puede ser cualitativo o cuantitativo. La forma de presentación clínica es variable y la seriedad de las hemorragias no guarda relación directa con los niveles de factor VII o su actividad.El cuadro clínico puede ser muy grave y se puede presentar hemorragia intracerebral temprana, hemartrosis o manifestaciones moderadas, dadas por sangrado mucocutáneo o hemorragia tras una intervención quirúrgica; algunos casos pueden cursar asintomáticos, a pesar de valores muy bajos de factor VII.El diagnóstico se hace mediante pruebas de coagulación, al encontrar un tiempo de protrombina prolongado con un tiempo parcial de tromboplastina normal y con la posterior cuantificación de factor VII disminuido (valores normales de 70 a 130%).
Simulación clínica: “aproximación pedagógica de la simulación clínica”
Authors: Amaya Afanador Adalberto
Published: January 2020

Al hablar de simulación clínica muchas personas lo asocian solamente con una estrategia destinada al desarrollo de habilidades y destrezas relacionadas con la reanimación cardiopulmonar debido a que efectivamente éste ha sido uno de sus ejes de desarrollo a nivel mundial; sin embargo, este concepto dista de la extensa utilidad que nos brinda la simulación clínica a las instituciones encargadas de la formación médica y de otras ciencias de la salud. Lo anteriormente descrito ha dado lugar a centrar la atención en la simulación más como una fuente de ingresos económicos a partir de la venta de servicios de cursos de capacitación en reanimación y ha descuidado su verdadera utilidad por falta de profundización en su esencia pedagógica; solamente haciendo una aproximación pedagógica lograremos entender el porqué es necesaria de acuerdo a las necesidades actuales de formación, la inclusión de la simulación como estrategia primordial para el aprendizaje de los estudiantes dentro de los currícula de Medicina y otras ciencias de la salud. Es importante aclarar que el presente artículo no pretende desarrollar toda una base epistemológica de la simulación, solamente corresponde a una reflexión alrededor del tema planteado.
Terapia farmacológica para el abandono del tabaquismo
Authors: Becerra Nelci Astrid , Cañón Martín , Vivas José Manuel
Published: January 2020

El tabaquismo es una enfermedad crónica causada por la dependencia física y psicológica a la nicotina y es la principal causa de mortalidad prevenible. La disponibilidad de productos derivados del tabaco y su aceptación social produce un elevado consumo en la población general. El problema del tabaquismo resulta paradójico: presenta alta prevalencia, altas tasas de mortalidad y altos costos para el sistema de salud; sin embargo, a pesar de disponer de múltiples opciones de tratamiento costo-efectivos, el equipo de salud está escasamente capacitado y motivado para la intervención, y no se cuenta con centros especializados ni con cobertura para los tratamientos de suspensión o abandono. El tratamiento farmacológico para el cese del tabaquismo siempre debe ser parte de una estrategia organizada, interdisciplinaria y multifactorial, cuya prescripción debe hacerse en el momento evolutivo adecuado de cada paciente, según el estado de dependencia en que se encuentre. En el presente artículo se presenta una revisión de la terapia farmacológica para abandonar la adicción al tabaco.
Caso congénito de citomegalovirus en el Hospital San Ignacio
Authors: Espinosa María Alejandra , Olaya Contreras Mercedes
Published: January 2020

Las infecciones ocurridas durante la gestación son una importante preocupación, tanto por su incidencia como por las consecuencias de secuelas y muerte que pueden traer para el recién nacido. Sin embargo, la sospecha clínica de infección por citomegalovirus en obstetricia y en pediatría no se correlaciona con la baja confirmación que se hace de la enfermedad.En la placenta, la infección congénita por citomegalovirus (CMV) se refleja en la aparición de villitis crónica, la cual se caracteriza por infiltrado inflamatorio linfohistiocitario focal o difuso en las vellosidades. De estos casos, 80% son asintomáticos y los que tienen síntomas presentan graves déficits neurológicos, retardo del crecimiento intrauterino e, incluso, la muerte. En autopsias fetales, la presencia de inclusiones típicas por citomegalovirus hace el diagnóstico de infección por CMV.Se presenta el caso de un óbito fetal, producto del primer embarazo de una madre adolescente sin adecuado control prenatal, y en cuya autopsia se documentó villositis crónica y la presencia de inclusiones virales en múltiples órganos, tales como vías aéreas y páncreas, con confirmación por inmunohistoquímica.
Alergia a anestésicos locales y generales y a otros medicamentos durante procedimientos quirúrgicos
Authors: Ortega María Claudia , López Santiago , Morato Fabio F. , Kase Tanno Luciana , Ensina Luis Felipe C.
Published: January 2020

Las reacciones de choque e hipersensibilidad a los anestésicos locales y generales y a otros medicamentos utilizados durante los procedimientos quirúrgicos, continúan siendo un reto en la práctica clínica. Las reacciones de hipersensibilidad alérgica pueden variar en su presentación e intensidad, y pueden producir desde síntomas leves en la piel hasta la muerte.
Estudio de la inserción de ADNk de Trypanosoma cruzi en el genoma de pacientes con enfermedad de Chagas
Authors: Chacín Carolina , Gonzalo Torres Rodrigo
Published: January 2020

La enfermedad de Chagas afecta cerca de 20 millones de personas y es una patología restringida al continente americano. Esta enfermedad de carácter crónico es causada por el parásito Trypanosoma cruzi del cual, en la actualidad se han definido dos poblaciones: Trypanosoma cruzi I y Trypanosoma cruzi II, con características particulares relacionadas con la distribución geográfica y el tipo de manifestaciones clínicas.