bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysmorphic neuron density underlies intrinsic epileptogenicity of the centre of cortical tubers
Authors: Stephenson Sarah EM. , Owens Harley G. , Richards Kay L. , Lee Wei Shern , D’Arcy Colleen , Barton Sarah , Mandelstam Simone A. , Maixner Wirginia J. , MacGregor Duncan , Petrou Steven , Lockhart Paul J. , Harvey A. Simon , Leventer Richard J.
Published: April 2019

Cortical tubers are benign lesions that develop in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), often resulting in drug-resistant epilepsy. Surgical resection may be required for seizure control, but the extent of the resection required is unclear. Many centres include resection of perituberal cortex, which may be associated with neurological deficits. Also, patients with tubers in eloquent cortex may be excluded from epilepsy surgery.

Our electrophysiological and MRI studies indicate that the tuber centre is the source of seizures, suggesting that smaller resections may be sufficient for seizure control. Here we report five epilepsy surgeries in four children with TSC and focal motor seizures from solitary epileptogenic tubers in the sensorimotor cortex in whom the resection was limited to the tuber centre, leaving the tuber rim and surrounding perituberal cortex intact. Seizures were eliminated in all cases, and no functional deficits were observed. On routine histopathology we observed an apparent increase in density of dysmorphic neurons at the tuber centre, which we confirmed using unbiased stereology which demonstrated a significantly greater density of dysmorphic neurons within the resected tuber centre (1951 ± 215 cells/mm3) compared to the biopsied tuber rim (531 ± 189 cells/mm3, n = 4, p = 0.008).

Taken together with our previous electrophysiological and MRI studies implicating the tuber centre as the focus of epileptic activity, and other electrophysiological studies of dysmorphic neurons in focal cortical dysplasia, this study supports the hypothesis that dysmorphic neurons concentrated at the tuber centre are the seizure generators in TSC. Furthermore, our results support limiting resection to the tuber centre, decreasing the risk of neurological deficits when tubers are located within eloquent cortex.
Automated quantification of small vessel disease brain changes on MRI predicts cognitive and functional decline
Authors: Jokinen Hanna , Koikkalainen Juha , Laakso Hanna M. , Melkas Susanna , Nieminen Tuomas , Brander Antti , Korvenoja Antti , Rueckert Daniel , Barkhof Frederik , Scheltens Philip , Schmidt Reinhold , Fazekas Franz , Madureira Sofia , Verdelho Ana , Wallin Anders , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Waldemar Gunhild , Chabriat Hugues , Hennerici Michael , O’Brien John , Inzitari Domenico , Lötjönen Jyrki , Pantoni Leonardo , Erkinjuntti Timo
Published: April 2019

Background and purpose

Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) is characterized by a wide range of focal and global brain changes. We used automated MRI segmentation to quantify multiple types of SVD brain changes and examined their individual and combined predictive value on cognitive and functional abilities.

Methods

MRI scans of 560 subjects of the Leukoaraiosis and Disability Study (LADIS) were analyzed using automated atlas- and convolutional neural network-based segmentation methods yielding volumetric measures of white matter hyperintensities (WMH), lacunes, cortical infarcts, enlarged perivascular spaces and regional brain atrophy. The subjects were followed up with annual neuropsychological examinations for 3 years and evaluation of instrumental activities of daily living for 7 years.

Results

The strongest predictors of cognitive performance and functional outcome over time were total volumes of WMH, grey matter (GM) and hippocampi (p<0.001 for global cognitive function, processing speed, executive functions and memory; and p<0.001 for poor functional outcome). Volumes of lacunes, cortical infarcts and EVPS were significantly associated with part of the outcome measures, but their contribution was weaker. In a multivariable linear mixed model, volumes of WMH, lacunes, GM and hippocampi remained as independent predictors of cognitive impairment. A combined measure of these markers based on z-scores strongly predicted cognitive and functional outcomes (p<0.001) even above the contribution of the individual brain changes.

Conclusions

Global burden of SVD-related brain changes as quantified by automated image segmentation is a powerful predictor of long-term cognitive decline and functional disability. A combined measure of WMH, lacunar, GM and hippocampal volumes could be used as an imaging identification model of vascular cognitive impairment.
Visualizing movements inE. coliF1FoATP synthase indicates how the F1and Fomotors are coupled
Authors: Sobti Meghna , Walshe James L. , Ishmukhametov Robert , Stewart Alastair G.
Published: April 2019

F1FoATP synthase functions as a biological rotary generator and makes a major contribution to cellular energy production. It is comprised of two motors that are coupled together by a central “rotor” and peripheral “stator” stalk. Proton flow through the Fomotor generates rotation of the central stalk that induces conformation changes that catalyze production of ATP in the F1motor. Here we provide 3-4 Å resolution cryo-EM structures ofE. coliF1FoATP synthase in 10 mM MgADP. In addition to generating a comprehensive structural model ofE. coliF1FoATP synthase to provide a framework to interpret mutagenesis studies, we describe a rotational sub-step of the Fomotorc-ring associated with long-range conformational changes that suggests an elegant mechanism by which the F1and Fomotors can be coupled with minimal energy loss.
Stress fiber growth and remodeling determines cellular morphomechanics under uniaxial cyclic stretch
Authors: Chatterjee Aritra , Kondaiah Paturu , Gundiah Namrata
Published: April 2019

Stress fibers in the cytoskeleton are essential in maintaining cellular shape, and influence their adhesion and migration. Cyclic uniaxial stretching results in cellular reorientation orthogonal to the applied stretch direction via a strain avoidance reaction; the mechanistic cues in cellular mechanosensitivity to this response are currently underexplored. We show stretch induced stress fiber lengthening, their realignment and increased cortical actin in fibroblasts stretched over varied amplitudes and durations. Higher amounts of actin and alignment of stress fibers were accompanied with an increase in the effective elastic modulus of cells. Microtubules did not contribute to the measured stiffness or reorientation response but were essential to the nuclear reorientation. We modeled stress fiber growth and reorientation dynamics using a nonlinear, orthotropic, fiber-reinforced continuum representation of the cell. The model predicts the observed fibroblast morphology and increased cellular stiffness under uniaxial cyclic stretch. These studies are important in exploring the differences underlying mechanotransduction and cellular contractility under stretch.
Mosaic evolution, preadaptation, and the evolution of evolvability in apes
Authors: Parins-Fukuchi Caroline
Published: April 2019

Abstract

A major goal in post-synthesis evolutionary biology has been to better understand how complex interactions between traits drive movement along and facilitate the formation of distinct evolutionary pathways. I present analyses of a character matrix sampled across the haplorrhine skeleton that revealed several modules of characters displaying distinct patterns in macroevolutionary disparity. Comparison of these patterns to those in neurological development showed that early ape evolution was characterized by an intense regime of evolutionary and developmental flexibility. Shifting and reduced constraint in apes was met with episodic bursts in phenotypic innovation that built a wide array of functional diversity over a foundation of shared developmental and anatomical structure. Shifts in modularity drove dramatic evolutionary changes across the ape body plan in two distinct ways: 1) an episode of relaxed integration early in hominoid evolution coincided with bursts in evolutionary rate across multiple character suites; 2) the formation of two new trait modules along the branch leading to chimps and humans preceded rapid and dramatic evolutionary shifts in the carpus and pelvis. Changes to the structure of evolutionary mosaicism may correspond to enhanced evolvability that has a ‘preadaptive’ effect by catalyzing later episodes of dramatic morphological remodeling.
When does gene flow facilitate evolutionary rescue?
Authors: Tomasini Matteo , Peischl Stephan
Published: April 2019

Abstract

Experimental and theoretical studies have highlighted the impact of gene flow on the probability of evolutionary rescue in structured habitats. Mathematical modelling and simulations of evolutionary rescue in spatially or otherwise structured populations showed that intermediate migration rates can often maximize the probability of rescue in gradually or abruptly deteriorating habitats. These theoretical results corroborate the positive effect of gene flow on evolutionary rescue that has been identified in experimental yeast populations. The observations that gene flow can facilitate adaptation are in seeming conflict with traditional population genetics results that show that gene flow usually hampers (local) adaptation. Identifying conditions for when gene flow facilitates survival chances of populations rather than reducing them remains a key unresolved theoretical question. We here present a simple analytically tractable model for evolutionary rescue in a two-deme model with gene flow. Our main result is a simple condition for when migration facilitates evolutionary rescue, as opposed as no migration. We further investigate the roles of asymmetries in gene flow and / or carrying capacities, and the effects of density regulation and local growth rates on evolutionary rescue.
Are self-leaders more willing to mentor others? A study among Indian and Spanish university teachers
Authors: Ganesh M.P. , López-Cabarcos M. Ángeles , Vázquez-Rodríguez Paula
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the influence of self-leadership on the intention to mentor among university teachers considering the mediating role of self-efficacy and the moderating role of individualism-collectivism dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data from Indian (n=88) and Spanish (n=105) university teachers. The hypothesized relationships were analyzed using structural equation modeling and hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Findings

Self-leadership strategies influence the intention to mentor through university teachers’ self-efficacy. The positive relationship between self-efficacy and intention to mentor becomes stronger when the respondents are inclined toward vertical collectivistic or horizontal individualistic values.

Research limitations/implications

The study extends mentoring literature since it incorporates both individual and cultural variables, allowing observing their interplay and giving a holistic understanding of the issue. The main limitation of the study is its cross-sectional survey design, which is the use of data collected from a single-sitting, self-reporting measure. Different procedures were used to control method biases.

Practical implications

Intention to mentor can help university teachers (especially the younger staffs) and students to establish the process that can reinforce their commitment toward realistic goals. In the long term, entering into a mentoring relationship might boost self-efficacy and self-leadership qualities of the mentors themselves.

Originality/value

The comprehensiveness and relevance of the variables in the context chosen is the primary strength of this research. In the scenario of increasing professionalization and globalization, the cross-cultural nature of this study brings in a global perspective of the research problem.
Interest-free monetary policy and its impact on inflation and unemployment rates
Authors: Selim Mohammad , Hassan M. Kabir
Published: April 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effects of interest-free and interest-based monetary policy on inflation and unemployment rates for two groups of countries where in one group, interest-free monetary policy (IFMP) was pursued, while in the other group, interest-based monetary policy (IBMP) was followed.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involves a sample of 23 developed countries divided into two groups. The authors measure economic performance by misery index (MI), and MI is calculated as unemployment rate plus inflation rate. A group of countries, where MI is lower, performs better compared to the other group where MI is relatively higher.

Findings

The results reveal that in group of 12 countries where IFMP is adopted, the MI is lower and thus performs better compared to a group of countries where IBMP is pursued.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study have profound implications for the policymakers and government leaders who look for a solution to maintain both low inflation and unemployment rates. The findings in this study clearly portray that such ideal situations can only be achieved by pursuing IFMP. No wonder the countries which have been historically pursuing IFMP such as Japan, Switzerland, Sweden, the Netherlands and Denmark have been able to contain both inflation and unemployment rates compared to their counterparts among the English-speaking countries.

Originality/value

This is one of the most recent tests on the differences in economic performance between IFMP and IBMP. These results have significant value for policymakers and central bankers who have been struggling to maintain lower MI for decades.
The impact of product variety on LSQ in e-marketplaces
Authors: Sorkun Metehan Feridun
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reveal the impact of the e-tailers’ product variety decisions on their logistics service quality (LSQ) in B2C e-marketplaces. Furthermore, it investigates the mediation of transaction intensity and the moderation of the perceived technical quality in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from one of Turkey’s biggest e-marketplace firms, N11.com. Consumer evaluations and the e-tailers’ product offers were used to operationalize research variables. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

Product variety increases the sales of e-tailers but negatively affects their LSQ. This negative effect does not stem from the operational complexity resulting from increased sales; on the contrary, transaction intensity actually suppresses the negative effect of product variety on LSQ. This study additionally reveals that the perceived technical quality weakens the negative impact of product variety on LSQ.

Originality/value

The intense competition in e-marketplaces makes LSQ a key competitive factor, highlighting the importance of revealing its determinants. Although the negative effect of product variety on operational performance has been revealed in manufacturing and physical retailing environments, it has been under-investigated in online retailing. Drawing on a knowledge-based view, this study reveals how product variety decreases LSQ in the online context despite its unique features (i.e. temporal and spatial separation). Moreover, by demonstrating that the delivered product’s instrumental performance affects the perceived LSQ, it reveals that technical quality and functional quality are not disjoint components in online purchases.
A longitudinal investigation of the glass-ceiling in nursing
Authors: Woolnough Helen , Fielden Sandra , Crozier Sarah , Hunt Carianne
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a longitudinal, qualitative study exploring changes in the attributional constructions of sense-making in the perceptions and lived experiences of the glass-ceiling among a cohort of female mental health nurses in the National Health Service who participated in a 12-month multi-faceted career and leadership development pilot programme compared to a matched control group.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed 27 female mental health nurses in the UK who participated in a multi-faceted development programme specifically designed to support female nurses secure career advancement and 27 members of a matched control group who did not experience the programme. Participants engaged in semi-structured telephone interviews at three separate time points (six months apart) over a 12-month period.

Findings

Programme participants differed in their attributional constructions of sense-making in relation to the glass-ceiling over time compared to the matched control group, e.g., triggering understandings and awakenings and re-evaluating the glass-ceiling above when promoted. Findings are used to theorise about the glass-ceiling as a concept that shifts and changes over time as a function of experience.

Practical implications

Practical implications include important organisational outcomes in relation to fostering the career advancement and retention of talented female leaders at all career stages.

Originality/value

The authors present the first known longitudinal, qualitative study to explore changes in attributional constructions of sense-making in perceptions and experiences of the glass-ceiling among female nurses over time compared to a matched control group.
Transition to circular economy in Brazil
Authors: Paes Michel Xocaira , de Medeiros Gerson Araujo , Mancini Sandro Donnini , Ribeiro Flávio de Miranda , Puppim de Oliveira Jose A.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate how improvements in municipal solid waste management systems (MSWMS) can contribute to a transition toward circular economy (CE) in urban areas, outlining actions and guidelines for public policies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out in three municipalities located in the state of São Paulo in terms of: diagnosis; elaboration of more positive scenarios in terms of CE and scaling of economic and environmental benefits; and outline actions and guidelines for public policies of MSWMS.

Findings

In developing countries like Brazil, MSWMS can contribute to a transition toward a CE through new public policies and management practices, or even through the improvement of those that already exist. Examples of this are the integration of the informal sector of the recycling chain and service sector related to repairs of clothing, shoes, furniture and electronics as well as composting at the food production site. This could be strengthened by legal and financial mechanisms, training and carbon credit projects. Moreover, there is a need for integration of public policies between different levels of governments and sectoral policies.

Originality/value

This paper developed a methodology to examine the potential for a transition toward a CE through the MSWMS in different scenarios and cities. This methodology allows to advance the implementation of the concept of CE in urban areas of developing countries and generating co-benefits to the local economy and the global environment.
Comparing biotic drivers of litter breakdown across stream compartments
Authors: Peralta‐Maraver Ignacio , Perkins Daniel M. , Thompson Murray S. A. , Fussmann Katarina , Reiss Julia , Robertson Anne L.
Published: April 2019

Litter breakdown in the streambed is an important pathway in organic carbon cycling and energy transfer in the biosphere that is mediated by a wide range of streambed organisms. However, most research on litter breakdown to date has focused on a small fraction of the taxa that drive it (e.g. microbial vs. macroinvertebrate‐mediated breakdown) and has been limited to the benthic zone (BZ). Despite the importance of the hyporheic zone (HZ) as a bioreactor, little is known about what, or who, mediates litter breakdown in this compartment and whether breakdown rates differ between the BZ and HZ.

Here, we explore the relationship between litter breakdown and the variation in community structure of benthic and hyporheic communities by deploying two standardized bioassays (cotton strips and two types of commercially available tea bags) in 30 UK streams that encompass a range of environmental conditions. Then, we modelled these assays as a response of the streambed compartment and the biological features of the streambed assemblage (Prokaryota, Protozoa and Eumetazoa invertebrates) to understand the generality and efficiency of litter processing across communities.

Litter breakdown was much faster in the BZ compared with the HZ (around 5 times higher for cotton strips and 1.5 times faster for the tea leaves). However, differences in litter breakdown between the BZ and the HZ were mediated by the biological features of the benthos and the hyporheos. Biomass of all the studied biotic groups, α‐diversity of Eumetazoa invertebrates and metabolic diversity of Prokaryota were important predictors that were positively related to breakdown coefficients demonstrating their importance in the functioning of the streambed ecosystem.

Our study uses a novel multimetric bioassay that is able to disentangle the contribution by Prokaryota, Protozoa and Eumetazoa invertebrates to litter breakdown. In doing so, our study reveals new insights into how organic matter decomposition is partitioned across biota and streambed compartments.
pathtrackr: An r package for video tracking and analysing animal movement
Authors: Harmer Aaron M. T. , Thomas Daniel B.
Published: April 2019

Techniques for visualising and analysing animal movement patterns are widely used in behavioural studies. While commercial options exist for analysing animal movement via video, the cost of these is often prohibitive.

To meet the need for an efficient and cost‐effective video tracking and analysis tool, we have developed the pathtrackr package for the open‐source programming environment r. The pathtrackr package allows for an automated and consolidated workflow, from video input to statistical output (with addition of the open‐source FFmpeg application), of an animal's movement.

The software tracks a single animal at a time across a variety of visual contexts, notably heterogenous backgrounds and variable lighting, and can deal with localised background movement that does not overlap with the animal. The software does not need training like many other solutions. We also include diagnostic tools in the package for troubleshooting.

Here, we provide an overview of the package and example workflow for using its various functions. Validation with simulated data shows that pathtrackr provides very accurate results, at the same time removing observer subjectivity and greatly reducing data collection times.
The organizing principle of GABAB receptor complexes: Physiological and pharmacological implications
Authors: Fritzius Thorsten , Bettler Bernhard
Published: April 2019

GABAB receptors (GBRs), the G protein‐coupled receptors for the neurotransmitter γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), regulate synaptic transmission at most synapses in the brain. Proteomic approaches revealed that native GBR complexes assemble from an inventory of ~30 proteins that provide a molecular basis for the functional diversity observed with these receptors. Studies with reconstituted GBR complexes in heterologous cells and complementary knockout studies have allowed to identify cellular and physiological functions for obligate and several non‐obligate receptor components. It emerges that modular association of receptor components in space and time generates a variety of multiprotein receptor complexes with different localizations, kinetic properties and effector channels. This article summarizes current knowledge on the organizing principle of GBR complexes. We further discuss unanticipated receptor functions, links to disease and opportunities for drug discovery arising from the identification of novel receptor components.
Postoperative bladder dysfunction and outcomes after minimally invasive extravesical ureteric reimplantation in children using a laparoscopic and a robot‐assisted approach: results of a multicentre international survey
Authors: Esposito Ciro , Varlet Francois , Riquelme Mario A. , Fourcade Laurent , Valla Jean S. , Ballouhey Quentin , Scalabre Aurelien , Escolino Maria
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To assess and compare postoperative bladder dysfunction rates and outcomes after laparoscopic and robot‐assisted extravesical ureteric reimplantation in children and to identify risk factors associated with bladder dysfunction.

Patients and Methods

A total of 151 children underwent minimally invasive extravesical ureteric reimplantation in five international centres of paediatric urology over a 5‐year period (January 2013–January 2018). The children were divided in two groups according to surgical approach: group 1 underwent laporoscopic reimplantation and included 116 children (92 girls and 24 boys with a median age of 4.5 years), while group 2 underwent robot‐assisted reimplantation and included 35 children (29 girls and six boys with a median age of 7.5 years). The two groups were compared with regard to: procedure length; success rate; postoperative complication rate; and postoperative bladder dysfunction rate (acute urinary retention [AUR] and voiding dysfunction). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess predictors of postoperative bladder dysfunction. Factors assessed included age, gender, laterality, duration of procedure, pre‐existing bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD) and pain control.

Results

The mean operating time was significantly longer in group 2 compared with group 1, for both unilateral (159.5 vs 109.5 min) and bilateral procedures (202 vs 132 min; P = 0.001). The success rate was significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1 (100% vs 95.6%; P = 0.001). The overall postoperative bladder dysfunction rate was 8.6% and no significant difference was found between group 1 (6.9%) and group 2 (14.3%; P = 0.17). All AUR cases were managed with short‐term bladder catheterization except for two cases (1.3%) in group 1 that required short‐term suprapubic catheterization. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that bilateral pathology, pre‐existing BBD and duration of procedure were predictors of postoperative bladder dysfunction (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results confirmed that short‐term bladder dysfunction is a possible complication of extravesical ureteric reimplantation, with no significant difference between the laparoscopic and robot‐assisted approaches. Bladder dysfunction occurred more often after bilateral repairs, but required suprapubic catheterization in only 1.3% of cases. Bilaterality, pre‐existing BBD and duration of surgery were confirmed on univariate and multivariate analyses as predictors of postoperative bladder dysfunction in this series.
Comparison of classical and modern methods for measuring and correcting for acquiescence
Authors: Primi Ricardo , Santos Daniel , De Fruyt Filip , John Oliver P.
Published: April 2019

Likert‐type self‐report scales are frequently used in large‐scale educational assessment of social‐emotional skills. Self‐report scales rely on the assumption that their items elicit information only about the trait they are supposed to measure. However, different response biases may threaten this assumption. Specifically, in children, the response style of acquiescence is an important source of systematic error. Balanced scales, including an equal number of positively and negatively keyed items, have been proposed as a solution to control for acquiescence, but the reasons why this design feature worked from the perspective of modern psychometric models have been underexplored. Three methods for controlling for acquiescence are compared: classical method by partialling out the mean; an item response theory method to measure differential person functioning (DPF); and multidimensional item response theory (MIRT) with random intercept. Comparative analyses are conducted on simulated ratings and on self‐ratings provided by 40,649 students (aged 11–18) on a fully balanced 30‐item scale assessing conscientious self‐management. Acquiescence bias was explained as DPF and it was demonstrated that: the acquiescence index is highly related to DPF; balanced scales produce scores controlled for DPF; and MIRT factor scores are highly related to scores controlled for DPF and the random intercept is highly related to DPF.
Histidine at position 462 determines the low quinine sensitivity of ether‐à‐go‐go channel superfamily member Kv12.1
Authors: Dierich Marlen , van Ham Willem B. , Stary‐Weinzinger Anna , Leitner Michael G.
Published: April 2019

Background and Purpose

The ether‐à‐go‐go (Eag) Kv superfamily comprises closely related Kv10, Kv11, and Kv12 subunits. Kv11.1 (termed hERG in humans) gained much attention, as drug‐induced inhibition of these channels is a frequent cause of sudden death in humans. The exclusive drug sensitivity of Kv11.1 can be explained by central drug‐binding pockets that are absent in most other channels. Currently, it is unknown whether Kv12 channels are equipped with an analogous drug‐binding pocket and whether drug‐binding properties are conserved in all Eag superfamily members.

Experimental Approach

We analysed sensitivity of recombinant Kv12.1 channels to quinine, a substituted quinoline that blocks Kv10.1 and Kv11.1 at low micromolar concentrations.

Key Results

Quinine inhibited Kv12.1, but its affinity was 10‐fold lower than for Kv11.1. Contrary to Kv11.1, quinine inhibited Kv12.1 in a largely voltage‐independent manner and induced channel opening at more depolarised potentials. Low sensitivity of Kv12.1 and characteristics of quinine‐dependent inhibition were determined by histidine 462, as site‐directed mutagenesis of this residue into the homologous tyrosine of Kv11.1 conferred Kv11.1‐like quinine block to Kv12.1(H462Y). Molecular modelling demonstrated that the low affinity of Kv12.1 was determined by only weak interactions of residues in the central cavity with quinine. In contrast, more favourable interactions can explain the higher quinine sensitivity of Kv12.1(H462Y) and Kv11.1 channels.

Conclusions and Implications

The quinoline‐binding “motif” is not conserved within the Eag superfamily, although the overall architecture of these channels is apparently similar. Our findings highlight functional and pharmacological diversity in this group of evolutionary‐conserved channels.
Detection of experimental cartilage damage with acoustic emissions technique: An in vitro equine study
Authors: Shakya B. R. , Tiulpin A. , Saarakkala S. , Turunen S. , Thevenot J.
Published: April 2019

Background

In horses, osteoarthritis (OA) mostly affects metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal (fetlock) joints. The current modalities used for diagnosis of equine limb disorders lack ability to detect early OA. Here, we propose a new alternative approach to assess experimental cartilage damage in fetlock joint using Acoustic Emissions (AE).

Objectives

To evaluate the potential of AE technique in diagnosing OA and see how AE signals changes with increasing severity of OA.

Study design

An in vitro experimental study.

Methods

A total of 16 distal limbs (8 forelimbs and 8 hindlimbs) from six Finn horses were collected from an abattoir and fitted in a custom‐made frame allowing fetlock joint bending. Eight fetlock joints were opened, and cartilage surface was progressively damaged mechanically three times using sandpaper to mimic mild, moderate and severe OA. The remaining eight fetlock joints were opened and closed without any mechanical procedure, serving as controls. Before cartilage alteration, synovial fluid was aspirated, mixed with phosphate‐buffered saline solution, and then reinjected before suturing for constant joint lubrication. For each simulated condition of OA severity, a force was applied to the frame and then released to mimic joint flexion and extension. AE signals were acquired using air microphones.

Results

A strong association was found between the joint condition and the power of AE signals analysed in 1.5–6 kHz range. The signal from both forelimb and hindlimb joints followed a similar pattern for increased cartilage damage. There were statistically significant differences between each joint condition progressively (generalised linear mixed model, P<0.001) in limbs with in vitro cartilage damage of varying severity while the control limbs did not show any changes.

Main limitations

Small sample size using in vitro, mechanically induced cartilage damage.

Conclusion

The AE technique presented here could differentiate the severity of fetlock joint cartilage damage. The consistent results for each simulated condition suggest there is potential for this method in the diagnosis of OA.
Excessive rainfall leads to maize yield loss of a comparable magnitude to extreme drought in the United States
Authors: Li Yan , Guan Kaiyu , Schnitkey Gary D. , DeLucia Evan , Peng Bin
Published: April 2019

Increasing drought and extreme rainfall are major threats to maize production in the United States. However, compared to drought impact, the impact of excessive rainfall on crop yield remains unresolved. Here, we present observational evidence from crop yield and insurance data that excessive rainfall can reduce maize yield up to −34% (−17 ± 3% on average) in the United States relative to the expected yield from the long‐term trend, comparable to the up to −37% loss by extreme drought (−32 ± 2% on average) from 1981 to 2016. Drought consistently decreases maize yield due to water deficiency and concurrent heat, with greater yield loss for rainfed maize in wetter areas. Excessive rainfall can have either negative or positive impact on crop yield, and its sign varies regionally. Excessive rainfall decreases maize yield significantly in cooler areas in conjunction with poorly drained soils, and such yield loss gets exacerbated under the condition of high preseason soil water storage. Current process‐based crop models cannot capture the yield loss from excessive rainfall and overestimate yield under wet conditions. Our results highlight the need for improved understanding and modeling of the excessive rainfall impact on crop yield.
The treatment dilemma of missing maxillary lateral incisors‐Part I: Canine substitution and resin‐bonded fixed dental prostheses
Authors: Priest George
Published: April 2019

Objective

Clinicians are faced with three common treatment options for the high frequency of missing or lost maxillary lateral incisors; canine substitution, a resin‐bonded fixed dental prosthesis (RBFDP), or a dental implant. A review of current data and guidelines for treatment provide new insight into making the most appropriate selection.

Overview

The incidence of maxillary incisor agenesis and loss is prevalent. Both canine substitution and RBFDPs exhibit esthetic and functional advantages and disadvantages.

Conclusions

Most missing lateral incisors are detected at an early age as a result of congenital absence; therefore, proper treatment of these young patients is essential. Both canine substitution and RBFDPs can provide long‐term success and esthetics when carefully executed. The decision should be based on the patient's expectations, their clinical presentation, cost, and the team's ability to provide the best long‐term esthetic and functional prognosis for a specific patient.

Clinical significance

Patients regularly present for treatment of missing and lost maxillary lateral incisors. The functional and esthetic aspects of canine substitution and a RBFDP should be clearly understood relative to the clinical parameters of each patient prior to treatment.
Dynamics of hyaluronic acid fillers formulated to maintain natural facial expression
Authors: Solish Nowell , Bertucci Vince , Percec Ivona , Wagner Ted , Nogueira Alessandra , Mashburn Jay
Published: April 2019

Background

Subjects seeking facial rejuvenation want the results to appear natural. Currently, however, there is no consensus definition of, or assessment scale for, “naturalness.”

Aims

This open‐label pilot study explored evaluation techniques and criteria to assess naturalness of facial movement and expression following optimal bilateral correction of moderate‐to‐severe nasolabial folds and marionette lines with soft‐tissue hyaluronic acid fillers formulated with XpresHAn Technology™.

Methods

Primary efficacy was investigator assessed naturalness of dynamic expressions using baseline and Day 42 posttreatment 2D video. Other evaluations included investigator assessed naturalness using static images, wrinkle severity, investigator and subject Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale assessments, and subject satisfaction.

Results

Thirty Caucasian females (41‐65 years) received either Restylane® Refyne, Restylane® Defyne or both. Naturalness of dynamic expressions was at least maintained in all subjects. Naturalness of static expressions was not negatively affected in most subjects (96.7%). For dynamic expressions, 83.3% of subjects showed enhanced attractiveness, younger appearance and maintained naturalness.

Conclusions

Overall, nasolabial folds and marionette lines improved significantly based on severity and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores, with high subject satisfaction and favorable safety profile. Based on subject satisfaction and investigator assessments, using highly flexible hyaluronic acid dermal fillers did not compromise naturalness of lower facial expressions while achieving the desired improvements in attractiveness and youthfulness. The preliminary results obtained in this pilot study suggest that dynamic and static assessments of facial animation may aid the evaluation of natural outcomes in facial rejuvenation procedures.
Gender Role Attitudes: An Examination of Cohort Effects in Japan
Authors: Piotrowski Martin , Yoshida Akiko , Johnson Lauren , Wolford Rick
Published: April 2019

Objective

This study examines cohort differences in attitudes toward women's roles within marriage in Japan.

Background

Japan has undergone dramatic sociocultural shifts in the 20th century that have shaped childhood experiences differently by cohort. Sociodemographic perspectives predict cohort effects, which suggest the lasting impact of experiences during the formative years on attitudes.

Method

This study employs a hierarchical age‐period‐cohort analysis and uses repeated cross‐sectional data from the 2000 to 2012 Japanese General Social Survey (N = 31,912), a nationwide probability survey.

Results

Among cohorts born before 1960, for both sexes, attitudes toward wife's employment and a gender‐based division of labor were significantly less traditional for later born cohorts. However, younger cohorts born in 1960 and after were not significantly different in their attitudes from the cohort born in the 1950s.

Conclusion

This study suggests the strong impact of ideological shifts and mothers' homemaking role (experienced in one's formative years) on gender role attitudes. It points to the important and lasting influence of structural contexts on attitudes and hence cohort effects.

Implications

This study contributes to our understanding of attitudinal change (and stagnation) toward gender roles and has policy implications for Japan and other countries characterized by low marriage and fertility rates.
Phylogeographic characteristics of hypervariable regions in the mitochondrial genome of a cosmopolitan, bloom‐forming raphidophyte, Heterosigma akashiwo
Authors: Ueki Shoko
Published: April 2019

The global distribution of phytoplankton is defined by many events, including long‐term evolutionary processes and shorter time span processes (e.g., global climate change). Furthermore, human‐assisted, unintentional dispersion, including the transport of live fish and spat for aquaculture, and transfer of aquatic microorganisms contained in ship ballast water, may aid the spread of phytoplankton. To understand the phylogeographic history of a species, the development of useful molecular markers is crucial. We previously reported a hypervariable mitochondrial gene in the cosmopolitan bloom‐forming alga, Heterosigma akashiwo. In this study, we identified two additional hypervariable segments in the H. akashiwo mitochondrial genome, one a protein coding sequence, and the other an intergenic region, by comparing the whole mitogenomes of strains obtained from various geographic origins. Interestingly, the newly identified hypervariable protein coding sequence was a paralogue of the previously identified gene, and both sequences showed tendencies to correlate with latitude of geographic origin. However, the hypervariable intergenic sequence did not show a clear correlation with origin. Our results demonstrated that the protein coding sequences may serve as useful tools for understanding the phylogeographic history of H. akashiwo, and they may crucially function in adaptation of the species to the environment.
Association of CYP1A1 rs1048943 variant with aggressive periodontitis and its interaction with hyperlipidemia on the periodontal status
Authors: Wang Xian'e , Li Wenjing , Song Wenli , Xu Li , Zhang Li , Feng Xianghui , Lu Ruifang , Meng Huanxin
Published: April 2019

Background and objective

CYP1A1 rs1048943 polymorphism was reported to be correlated with periodontitis; however, its association with aggressive periodontitis (AgP) has not yet been investigated. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the CYP1A1 gene rs1048943 variant with generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP) and platelet activation and analyse whether its interaction with hyperlipidemia affects periodontal status in a Chinese population.

Methods

A case‐control study of 224 GAgP patients and 139 healthy controls was conducted. The clinical parameters of probing depth (PD), attachment loss (AL) and bleeding index (BI) were recorded. Platelet count (PLT), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet large cell ratio (PLCR), mean platelet volume (MPV), serum total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), high and low‐density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL) were also measured. The CYP1A1 rs1048943 SNP was genotyped by time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Logistic and linear regression models were used to measure correlation.

Results

The CYP1A1 rs1048943 AG/GG genotype was associated with GAgP (OR = 1.56, 95%CI: 1.01, 2.42), PD, AL and decreased PDW, PLCR and MPV after adjustment for covariates. Gene‐lipid interactions were found between CYP1A1 rs1048943 and HDL for PD (Pinteraction = 0.0033), BI (Pinteraction = 0.0311) and AL (Pinteraction = 0.0141) and between CYP1A1 rs1048943 and LDL for PD (Pinteraction = 0.013) among patients with GAgP.

Conclusion

The G allele of the CYP1A1 rs1048943 gene was associated with GAgP, periodontal status and platelet‐related inflammation status in a Chinese population. Hyperlipidemia could modulate the effect of CYP1A1 rs1048943 on the periodontal status of GAgP.
A study of crude oil‐degrading bacteria from mangrove forests in the Persian Gulf
Authors: Fakhrzadegan Iman , Hassanshahian Mehdi , Askari Hesni Majid , Saadatfar Amir
Published: April 2019

Mangroves are coastal ecosystems, found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They are found in the transitional zones between land, sea, and rivers. Petroleum hydrocarbons are the most common environmental pollutants, and oil spills pose a great hazard to mangroves forests. This research was focused on the isolation and characterization of crude oil‐degrading bacteria from mangrove ecosystems at the Persian Gulf. Sixty‐one crude oil‐degrading bacteria were isolated from mangrove samples (plant, sediment, and seawater) that enriched in ONR7a medium with crude oil as only carbon source. Some screening tests such as growth at high concentration of crude oil, bioemulsifier production, and surface hydrophobicity were done to select the most efficient strains for crude oil degradation. Molecular identification of strains was carried out by amplification of the 16S rRNA gene by PCR. The results of this study were indicated that the quantity of crude oil‐degrading bacteria was higher in the root of mangrove plants compare to other mangrove samples (sediment and seawater). Also, identification results confirmed that these isolated strains belong to Vibrio sp. strain NW4, Idiomarina sp. strain BW32, Kangiella sp. strain DP40, Marinobacter sp. strain DW44, Halomonas sp. strain BS53, and Vibrio sp. strain DS35. The application of bioremediation strategies with these bacteria can reduce crude oil pollution in this important marine environment.
Novel insights into the diversity of the sulfurtransferase family in photosynthetic organisms with emphasis on oak
Authors: Moseler Anna , Selles Benjamin , Rouhier Nicolas , Couturier Jérémy
Published: April 2019

Sulfurtransferases (STRs) constitute a large and complex protein family characterized by the presence of a rhodanese domain and implicated in diverse molecular and signaling processes as sulfur carriers. Although sulfurtransferases are present in the three domains of life and share evolutionary relationships, a high variability exists at different levels including the protein length and active site sequence, the presence of an indispensable catalytic cysteine residue, the domain arrangement and the subcellular localization. Because only Arabidopsis thaliana sequences have been inventoried so far, this paper aims at providing a detailed classification and inventory of evolutionary features of this family in photosynthetic organisms using comparative genomics, focusing on the oak genome. Based on the expansion of STRs in higher photosynthetic organisms, we classified the STR family in nine clusters depending on their primary sequence and domain arrangement. We found that oak possesses at least one isoform in all defined clusters and that clusters IV, V and VI contain plant‐specific isoforms that are located mostly in chloroplasts. The novel classification proposed here provides the basis for functional genomics approaches in order to dissect the biochemical characteristics and physiological functions of individual STR representatives.
What viruses tell us about evolution and immunity: beyond Darwin?
Authors: Broecker Felix , Moelling Karin
Published: April 2019

We describe mechanisms of genetic innovation mediated by viruses and related elements that, during evolution, caused major genetic changes beyond what was anticipated by Charles Darwin. Viruses and related elements introduced genetic information and have shaped the genomes and immune systems of all cellular life forms. None of these mechanisms contradict Darwin's theory of evolution but extend it by means of sequence information that has recently become available. Not only do small increments of genetic information contribute to evolution, but also do major events such as infection by viruses or bacteria, which can supply new genetic information to a host by horizontal gene transfer. Thereby, viruses and virus‐like elements act as major drivers of evolution.