bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeographic historical legacies in the net primary productivity of Northern Hemisphere forests
Authors: Conradi Timo , Van Meerbeek Koenraad , Ordonez Alejandro , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: February 2020

It has been suggested that biogeographic historical legacies in plant diversity may influence ecosystem functioning. This is expected because of known diversity effects on ecosystem functions, and impacts of historical events such as past climatic changes on plant diversity. However, empirical evidence for a link between biogeographic history and present‐day ecosystem functioning is still limited. Here, we explored the relationships between Late‐Quaternary climate instability, species‐pool size, local species and functional diversity, and the net primary productivity (NPP) of Northern Hemisphere forests using structural equation modelling. Our study confirms that past climate instability has negative effects on plant functional diversity and through that on NPP, after controlling for present‐day climate, soil conditions, stand biomass and age. We conclude that global models of terrestrial plant productivity need to consider the biogeographical context to improve predictions of plant productivity and feedbacks with the climate system.
Angelman syndrome: a journey through the brain
Authors: Maranga Carina , Fernandes Tiago G. , Bekman Evguenia , da Rocha Simão Teixeira
Published: February 2020

Angelman syndrome (AS) is an incurable neurodevelopmental disease caused by loss of function of the maternally inherited UBE3A gene. AS is characterized by a defined set of symptoms, namely severe developmental delay, speech impairment, uncontrolled laughter, and ataxia. Current understanding of the pathophysiology of AS relies mostly on studies using the murine model of the disease, although alternative models based on patient‐derived stem cells are now emerging. Here, we summarize the literature of the last decade concerning the three major brain areas that have been the subject of study in the context of AS: hippocampus, cortex, and the cerebellum. Our comprehensive analysis highlights the major phenotypes ascribed to the different brain areas. Moreover, we also discuss the major drawbacks of current models and point out future directions for research in the context of AS, which will hopefully lead us to an effective treatment of this condition in humans.
Chemical Procedures for Rhenium Extraction from Geological Samples: Optimising the Anion Resin Bead Clean‐up Step
Authors: Yang Gang , Zimmerman Aaron , Hurtig Nicole C. , Georgiev Svetoslav V. , Goswami Vineet , Hannah Judith L. , Stein Holly J.
Published: February 2020

Rhenium–osmium geochronometry for samples with low Re and complex matrices requires improved Re extraction methods. Here, we investigate plausible controls on efficiency and efficacy of Re extraction during our anion resin bead purification. Four different protocols are compared, each isolating a single variable to test. Rhenium concentrations for solutions at each step of each protocol document differences in chemical recovery/yield. The negative‐thermal ionisation mass spectrometry (N‐TIMS) signal intensity serves as a proxy for Re yield and purity. These data document correlations between the N‐TIMS signal intensity and (a) the duration of anion resin bead conditioning prior to loading with Re‐bearing solution, and (b) both duration and strength of nitric acid used during rinsing of the Re‐loaded anion resin bead. The optimal protocol improved Re signal intensity around fourteen times compared with our current Re extraction protocol, an aggregate of 2.4 times improvement in chemical recovery (yield) and 5.8 times improvement in emission efficiency (purity). Repeated N‐TIMS isotopic measurements on our in‐house Re standard solution (1407) verify that our optimal protocol‐3 does not fractionate Re isotopes. The improved anion resin bead method considerably lowers the Re detection limit and allows Re‐Os isotopic analysis of picogram‐level Re hosted in geological samples with complex matrices.
Short and Mid‐Term Predictors of Response to OnabotulinumtoxinA: Real‐Life Experience Observational Study
Authors: Alpuente Alicia , Gallardo Víctor José , Torres‐Ferrús Marta , Álvarez‐Sabin José , Pozo‐Rosich Patricia
Published: February 2020

Objective

To identify clinical predictors of excellent response to OnabotulinumtoxinA in patients with chronic migraine (CM) at 6 and 12 months of follow‐up.

Background

Clinical predictors of response to OnabotulinumtoxinA are scarce and have not been clearly reproduced and analyzed in detail. So far, predictors of response to OnabotulinumtoxinA assess response in general or good response, but not an excellent response.

Methods

Cohort study of patients attended in a specialized Headache Clinic in treatment with OnabotulinumtoxinA were classified according to their improvement in frequency: no‐response (<25%) and excellent response (≥75%). A comparative analysis was carried out at 6 and 12 months identifying clinical predictors of excellent response to OnabotulinumtoxinA at each timepoint.

Results

Data were collected from 221 patients. After 6 and also 12 months, we observed a statistically significant mean reduction in frequency and analgesic intake. At month 6, independent variables associated with excellent response (OR[95%CI]) were daily headache frequency (0.32[0.14‐0.74]; P = .005), medication overuse (MO) (2.28[1.19‐4.37]; P = .013), and a higher ratio of migraine days/month (MDM) (1.20[1.10‐1.45]; P = .018) at baseline. At month 12, independent predictors of excellent response were patients with less than 30 years of migraine evolution (0.43[0.23‐0.82]; P = .011), presence of anxiety (0.44[0.23‐0.85]; P = .018), and aura (0.48[0.25‐0.92]; P = .037). Excellent responders showed a higher improvement rate in pain intensity at 6 and 12 months.

Conclusions

Patients with daily frequency and MO show a clinical improvement in short‐term. Patients with comorbidities who start treatment earlier in the course of the disease need a longer duration of treatment. The profile of response to treatment with OnabotulinumtoxinA determines its minimum treatment duration and the timepoint of a meaningful response.
The evolution of parasite host range in heterogeneous host populations
Authors: Gibson Amanda K. , Baffoe‐Bonnie Helena , Penley McKenna J. , Lin Julie , Owens Raythe , Khalid Arooj , Morran Levi T.
Published: February 2020

Theory on the evolution of niche width argues that resource heterogeneity selects for niche breadth. For parasites, this theory predicts that parasite populations will evolve, or maintain, broader host ranges when selected in genetically diverse host populations relative to homogeneous host populations. To test this prediction, we selected the bacterial parasite Serratia marcescens to kill Caenorhabditis elegans in populations that were genetically heterogeneous (50% mix of two experimental genotypes) or homogeneous (100% of either genotype). After 20 rounds of selection, we compared the host range of selected parasites by measuring parasite fitness (i.e. virulence, the selected fitness trait) on the two focal host genotypes and on a novel host genotype. As predicted, heterogeneous host populations selected for parasites with a broader host range: these parasite populations gained or maintained virulence on all host genotypes. This result contrasted with selection in homogeneous populations of one host genotype. Here, host range contracted, with parasite populations gaining virulence on the focal host genotype and losing virulence on the novel host genotype. This pattern was not, however, repeated with selection in homogeneous populations of the second host genotype: these parasite populations did not gain virulence on the focal host genotype, nor did they lose virulence on the novel host genotype. Our results indicate that host heterogeneity can maintain broader host ranges in parasite populations. Individual host genotypes, however, vary in the degree to which they select for specialization in parasite populations.
Brief introduction of medical database and data mining technology in big data era
Authors: Yang Jin , Li Yuanjie , Liu Qingqing , Li Li , Feng Aozi , Wang Tianyi , Zheng Shuai , Xu Anding , Lyu Jun
Published: February 2020

Data mining technology can search for potentially valuable knowledge from a large amount of data, mainly divided into data preparation and data mining, and expression and analysis of results. It is a mature information processing technology and applies database technology. Database technology is a software science that researches manages, and applies databases. The data in the database are processed and analyzed by studying the underlying theory and implementation methods of the structure, storage, design, management, and application of the database. We have introduced several databases and data mining techniques to help a wide range of clinical researchers better understand and apply database technology.
Father Involvement and Socioeconomic Disparities in Child Academic Outcomes
Authors: Miller Daniel P. , Thomas Margaret M. C. , Waller Maureen R. , Nepomnyaschy Lenna , Emory Allison D.
Published: February 2020

Objective

This article explores whether father involvement can reduce socioeconomic disparities in child academic outcomes.

Background

An emerging body of literature points to the benefits to children of involvement by low‐socioeconomic status (SES) fathers. Research has not systematically investigated whether differences in father involvement can account for SES‐based disparities in child outcomes.

Method

This study used data from 12,030 unique children from the 1998 Early Childhood Longitudinal Study. Using multiple regression models and novel simulation analyses, it investigated whether accounting for SES‐based differences in either the amount or effect of involvement by biological fathers explains gaps in reading scores, math scores, and rates of grade retention between low‐SES and high‐SES children.

Results

Father residence, resident father school involvement, and a comprehensive index of nonresident father involvement were associated with better child academic outcomes. Associations between residence and nonresident father involvement and child outcomes were consistent for fathers in all SES quintiles. School involvement by low‐SES resident fathers was more beneficial than involvement by the highest SES fathers. Simulation analyses indicated that increasing the amount of involvement by low‐SES fathers to that of high‐SES fathers would result in minimal decreases in SES disparities in reading and math scores, but more sizeable decreases in rates of grade retention.

Conclusion

Increasing some types of father involvement may help to narrow academic gaps between low‐ and high‐SES children.
Fusarium incarnatum is associated with postharvest fruit rot of muskmelon (Cucumis melo)
Authors: Wonglom Prisana , Sunpapao Anurag
Published: February 2020

Postharvest fruit rot was observed on muskmelon (Cucumis melo) on market shelves at a melon farm in the city of Hatyai, Songkhla, Thailand. Diseased muskmelon fruit displayed cotton‐like mycelia on wounds and had brown to dark brown internal tissue. Based on morphological characteristics and molecular analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and translation elongation factor 1‐α (TEF1‐α) DNA sequences, the fungal pathogen was identified as Fusarium incarnatum. This species belongs to the Fusarium incarnatum‐equiseti species complex (FIESC). A pathogenicity test was conducted to verify Koch's postulates, and F. incarnatum was observed to cause fruit rot on muskmelon; symptoms of the disease were similar to those seen in the field. However, only artificially wounded melons became infected, suggesting that F. incarnatum is an obligate wound‐infecting pathogen. To our knowledge, this is the first report of F. incarnatum causing fruit rot of muskmelon in Thailand.
The use and effectiveness of adaptive servo ventilation in central sleep apnea: a study of consecutive sleep clinic patients
Authors: Huseini Taha , McArdle Nigel , Jasper Emily , Kurmagadda Sasya , Douglas Jane , King Stuart , Sturdy Gavin , Singh Bhajan
Published: February 2020

The use of adaptive servo ventilation to treat central sleep apnea in the clinical setting is incompletely understood and could be under‐utilized. We reviewed our experience of adaptive servo ventilation use in patients with central sleep apnea. This study shows the effectiveness of adaptive servo ventilation in treating patients with central sleep apnea, irrespective of a predisposing factor, as assessed during a 4‐week treatment trial. Results show that adaptive servo ventilation was effective and superior to continuous positive airway pressure in controlling central sleep apnea and improving symptoms. Only a small proportion of these patients had comorbid heart failure. Early treatment with adaptive servo ventilation may improve long‐term adherence to therapy. These findings highlight the utility of adaptive servo ventilation in the management of central sleep apnea.
Renal expression and urinary excretion of liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein in cats with renal disease
Authors: Katayama Masaaki , Ohata Keiichi , Miyazaki Tamako , Katayama Rieko , Wakamatsu Nobuko , Ohno Misa , Yamashita Tetsuro , Oikawa Tsuyoshi , Sugaya Takeshi , Miyazaki Masao
Published: February 2020

Background

Liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein (L‐FABP) is a biomarker for early detection of renal disease in humans. Liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein is cytotoxic oxidation products secreted from proximal tubules under ischemia and oxidative stress.

Objective

To examine renal expression and quantify urinary excretion of L‐FABP in catswith renal disease.

Animals

One hundred and thirty‐four client‐owned cats including 34 cats with serum creatinine (sCre) values >1.6 mg/dL and 10 other cats that died in clinics.

Methods

Tissue expressions of L‐FABP were examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Urinary L‐FABP (uL‐FABP) and serum L‐FABP (sL‐FABP) levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Anti‐liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein antibody immunostained renal sections.

Results

Feline kidneys express L‐FABP. Strong L‐FABP signals were observed in the lumens of proximal tubular cells in 5 cats with high uL‐FABP excretion, but not in 5 cats with low uL‐FABP excretion. In 9 normal cats, uL‐FABP index was <1.2 μg/g urinary creatinine (uCre). High uL‐FABP indexes (>10.0 μg/g uCre) were detected in 7 of 100 cats with low sCre (<1.6 mg/dL) and 18 of 44 cats with high sCre (>1.6 mg/dL). There was a weak correlation between L‐FABP index and sCre, serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), or blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and these correlation coefficients were increased by analyzing only data of cats with sCre >1.6 mg/dL. There was a weak correlation between u L‐FABP index and sL‐FABP in all tested cats, but not in cats with high sCre.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

This study demonstrates correlations between L‐FABP and current renal biomarkers for chronic kidney disease in cats, such as sCre and SDMA. Liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein may be a potential biomarker to predict early pathophysiological events in feline kidneys.
Effects of arginine and ornithine supplementation to a high‐protein diet on selected cellular immune variables in adult cats
Authors: Paßlack Nadine , Kohn Barbara , Zentek Jürgen
Published: February 2020

Background

Dietary protein and amino acid intake and composition can modulate immune function.

Objectives

To evaluate the effects of high‐protein intake and arginine and ornithine supplementation on feline immune cells.

Animals

Ten healthy cats.

Methods

Experimental study. Cats received a high‐protein basal diet as a single daily meal. A crossover design was applied with treatments being basal diet (w/o); basal diet with arginine supplementation (+50, 75, 100% compared to the arginine provision by the basal diet; Arg 1‐3); and basal diet with ornithine supplementation (+100, 150, 200% compared to the arginine provision by the basal diet; Orn 1‐3). Blood samples were collected at the end of each 11‐day treatment period.

Results

Mitogen‐stimulated proliferative activity of blood leukocytes revealed a quadratic effect for the dietary supplementation of arginine (P = .02) and ornithine (P = .03) (means for ConA‐stimulation: w/o = 6.96; Arg 1 = 9.31; Arg 2 = 11.4; Arg 3 = 8.04; Orn 1 = 15.4; Orn 2 = 9.43; Orn 3 = 9.28; pooled SEM: 0.96). The number (% gated) of phagocytic granulocytes linearly decreased with increasing dietary concentrations of arginine (P = .05) and ornithine (P = .03) (means: w/o = 95.5; Arg 1 = 93.0; Arg 2 = 92.5; Arg 3 = 92.6; Orn 1 = 92.6; Orn 2 = 92.6; Orn 3 = 91.5; pooled SEM = 0.44).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

This study could demonstrate immunomodulating properties of dietary arginine and ornithine in cats.
Clinical‐dosimetric relationship between lacrimal gland dose and keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs with sinonasal tumors treated with radiation therapy
Authors: Poirier Valerie J. , Matsuyama Arata , Kim Changseok , Darko Johnson , Fleck Andre
Published: February 2020

Background

Dogs with sinonasal tumor can develop keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) after radiation therapy (RT). In humans, the incidence of xerophtalmia is associated with the mean radiation dose received by the ipsilateral lacrimal gland (LG).

Hypothesis/Objectives

The eyes receiving a higher mean LG dose are more likely to develop KCS. The aim of the study was to determine a starting threshold dose to use as dose constraint for intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

Animals

Dogs with nasal tumors treated with RT between August 2013 and December 2016.

Methods

Case control retrospective study of dogs with sinonasal tumor treated with 42 Gray (Gy) in 10 fractions using IMRT. Dogs were included if development of KCS after RT was documented (cases) or adequate follow‐up information with Schirmer tear test (STT) result for ≥6 months after RT was available (controls). Lacrimal glands were contoured and dose distribution was calculated using the original treatment plan to determine prescribed doses to LGs.

Results

Twenty‐five dogs were treated with RT and 5 dogs (20%) developed KCS. Fifteen dogs met the inclusion criteria including 5 unilateral KCS and 10 control dogs, resulting in 5 KCS eyes and 25 control eyes. KCS developed at a median of 111 days (84‐122) after 1st RT. The mean LG dose reached using a 4.2 Gy per fraction was 33.08 Gy (range: 23.75‐42.33) for KCS eyes and 10.33 Gy (1.8‐24.77) for control eyes (P < .001). The minimum LG mean dose for developing KCS was 23.75 Gy. No eyes that received a mean LG dose <20 Gy developed KCS versus 5/7 (71%) developed with >20 Gy.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Contouring and applying a dose constraint on LGs should be performed when using IMRT in dogs with sinonasal tumors to reduce the risk of KCS.
The essential effector SCRE1 in Ustilaginoidea virens suppresses rice immunity via a small peptide region
Authors: Zhang Nan , Yang Jiyun , Fang Anfei , Wang Jiyang , Li Dayong , Li Yuejiao , Wang Shanzhi , Cui Fuhao , Yu Junjie , Liu Yongfeng , Peng You‐Liang , Sun Wenxian
Published: February 2020

The biotrophic fungal pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens causes rice false smut, a newly emerging plant disease that has become epidemic worldwide in recent years. The U. virens genome encodes many putative effector proteins that, based on the study of other pathosystems, could play an essential role in fungal virulence. However, few studies have been reported on virulence functions of individual U. virens effectors. Here, we report our identification and characterization of the secreted cysteine‐rich protein SCRE1, which is an essential virulence effector in U. virens. When SCRE1 was heterologously expressed in Magnaporthe oryzae, the protein was secreted and translocated into plant cells during infection. SCRE1 suppresses the immunity‐associated hypersensitive response in the nonhost plant Nicotiana benthamiana. Induced expression of SCRE1 in rice also inhibits pattern‐triggered immunity and enhances disease susceptibility to rice bacterial and fungal pathogens. The immunosuppressive activity is localized to a small peptide region that contains an important ‘cysteine‐proline‐alanine‐arginine‐serine’ motif. Furthermore, the scre1 knockout mutant generated using the CRISPR/Cas9 system is attenuated in U. virens virulence to rice, which is greatly complemented by the full‐length SCRE1 gene. Collectively, this study indicates that the effector SCRE1 is able to inhibit host immunity and is required for full virulence of U. virens.
Translational Research in a Military Organization: The Marine Corps Organizational Culture Research Project
Authors: Fosher Kerry B. , Lane Rebecca , Tarzi Erika , Post Kristin , Gauldin Eric M. , Tashev Blagovest , Edwards Jennifer , McLean Jeremy D.
Published: February 2020

This article provides an overview of a project combining anthropological practice and research to examine various aspects of U.S. Marine Corps culture, conducted at the organization's request, in the wake of significant gender‐related misconduct involving Marines on social media. We examine the context and practice leading up to the research, address research design and execution, and describe both the broader Marine population and the characteristics of those in our sample. By examining the details of the project's context and execution, the article aims to advance anthropological discussion about the complexities of research with active duty military personnel, as well as provide insights into practice and research conducted from a standpoint within a military organization.
Higher sensitivity towards light stress and ocean acidification in an Arctic sea‐ice‐associated diatom compared to a pelagic diatom
Authors: Kvernvik Ane C. , Rokitta Sebastian D. , Leu Eva , Harms Lars , Gabrielsen Tove M. , Rost Björn , Hoppe Clara J. M.
Published: February 2020

Thalassiosira hyalina and Nitzschia frigida are important members of Arctic pelagic and sympagic (sea‐ice‐associated) diatom communities. We investigated the effects of light stress (shift from 20 to 380 µmol photons m−2 s−1, resembling upwelling or ice break‐up) under contemporary and future pCO2 (400 vs 1000 µatm).

The responses in growth, elemental composition, pigmentation and photophysiology were followed over 120 h and are discussed together with underlying gene expression patterns.

Stress response and subsequent re‐acclimation were efficiently facilitated by T. hyalina, which showed only moderate changes in photophysiology and elemental composition, and thrived under high light after 120 h. In N. frigida, photochemical damage and oxidative stress appeared to outweigh cellular defenses, causing dysfunctional photophysiology and reduced growth. pCO2 alone did not specifically influence gene expression, but amplified the transcriptomic reactions to light stress, indicating that pCO2 affects metabolic equilibria rather than sensitive genes.

Large differences in acclimation capacities towards high light and high pCO2 between T. hyalina and N. frigida indicate species‐specific mechanisms in coping with the two stressors, which may reflect their respective ecological niches. This could potentially alter the balance between sympagic and pelagic primary production in a future Arctic.
Targeting EGFR Overexpression at the Surface of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Exploiting Amidated BODIPY‐Peptide Conjugates
Authors: Williams Tyrslai M. , Zhou Zehua , Singh Sitanshu S. , Sibrian‐Vazquez Martha , Jois Seetharama D. , Henriques Vicente Maria da Graça
Published: February 2020

Three BODIPY‐peptide conjugates designed to target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) at the extracellular domain were synthesized, and their specificity for binding to EGFR was investigated. Peptide sequences containing seven amino acids, GLARLLT (2) and KLARLLT (4), and 13 amino acids, GYHWYGYTPQNVI (3), were conjugated to carboxyl BODIPY dye (1) by amide bond formation in up to 73% yields. The BODIPY‐peptide conjugates and their “parent” peptides were determined to bind to EGFR experimentally using SPR analysis and were further investigated using computational methods (AutoDock). Results of SPR, competitive binding and docking studies propose that conjugate 6 including the GYHWYGYTPQNVI sequence binds to EGFR more effectively than conjugates 5 and 7, bearing the smaller peptide sequences. Findings in human carcinoma HEp2 cells overexpressing EGFR showed nontoxic behavior in the presence of activated light (1.5 J cm−2) and in the absence of light for all BODIPYs. Furthermore, conjugate 6 showed about five‐fold higher accumulation within HEp2 cells compared with conjugates 5 and 7, localizing preferentially in the cell ER and lysosomes. Our findings suggest that BODIPY‐peptide conjugate 6 is a promising contrast agent for detection of colorectal cancer and potentially other EGFR‐overexpressing cancers.
Occurrence and characterization of Alternaria species associated with leaf spot disease in rapeseed in Serbia
Authors: Blagojević Jovana D. , Vukojević Jelena B. , Ivanović Žarko S.
Published: February 2020

The global demand for rapeseed makes it one of the fastest growing markets in crop production, with a need for increasing growing area and productivity, both of which depend on effective pathogen control strategies. Alternaria pathogens cause serious losses of brassica crops and occur in most rapeseed‐growing regions around the world. In this study, morphological, molecular, and pathogenic analyses of 113 isolates collected from nine important rapeseed‐growing areas in Serbia identified four pathogens: Alternaria brassicae, A. brassicicola, A. japonica, and A. alternata, causing leaf spot disease. Molecular analyses of ITS, GAPDH, Alt a1, and ATP sequences revealed one multilocus haplotype for A. brassicae and A. japonica isolates, whereas for A. brassicicola and A. alternata three and five haplotypes were distinguished, respectively. Pathogenicity tests showed that A. brassicicola was the most virulent while A. brassicae and A. japonica exhibited the same level of pathogenicity. The A. alternata population was generally weakly pathogenic with one nonpathogenic, genetically separated but closely related group of isolates, suggesting that pathogenicity is more unstable in this phylogenetic lineage. The data recorded on rate of growth and sporulation of isolates at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 °C revealed significant differences in evolutionary strategies among species, as A. alternata had the widest optimum range and the fastest growth rate, A. brassicicola showed the highest sporulation intensity, and A. brassicae expressed lower optimum temperatures for sporulation compared to other groups. All species indicated the potential for cross‐infection of cabbage, and some haplotypes of A. brassicicola were previously isolated from horseradish in Serbia, suggesting the presence of one persistent Alternaria population on multiple brassica hosts in the region. This report describes the first detailed study of Alternaria spp. in rapeseed in Serbia.
The role of neurokinin A and its receptor in the regulation of prolactin secretion by the anterior pituitary of cyclic pigs
Authors: Czelejewska Wioleta , Zmijewska Agata , Dziekonski Mariusz , Okrasa Stanislaw
Published: February 2020

In pigs, plasma prolactin concentration markedly changes during the oestrous cycle and the regulation of its secretion is very complex. The contribution of neurokinins in this process has not been sufficiently delineated. The aim of the study was to examine the effects of neurokinin A (NKA) on prolactin synthesis and secretion in cyclic gilts. The expression of NKA precursor (Ppta) and receptor (Tacr2) genes as well as NKA and TACR proteins content in the porcine pituitaries (days 2–3, 9–10, 12–13, 15–16 and 19–20 of the cycle) was determined. Furthermore, the in vitro influence of NKA on the expression of prolactin (Prl), dopamine receptor (D2r), TRH receptor (Trhr) genes and prolactin secretion by the porcine pituitary cells (days 9–10, 15–16 and 19–20 of the cycle) was assessed. The expression of Ppta and Tacr2 as well as NKA and TACR proteins in the pituitary tissue has been changing throughout the oestrous cycle. NKA affected in vitro the expression of studied genes and prolactin secretion depending on the stage of the cycle, dose of NKA and/or duration of the cell incubation. Altogether, the study indicates that NKA is engaged in the modulation of prolactin secretion in the pig during the oestrous cycle.
Optimizing canopy‐forming algae conservation and restoration with a new herbivorous fish deterrent device
Authors: Gianni Fabrizio , Mačić Vesna , Bartolini Fabrizio , Pey Alexis , Laurent Mathieu , Mangialajo Luisa
Published: February 2020

The role of herbivorous fish in threatening marine forests of temperate seas has been generally overlooked. Only recently, the scientific community has highlighted that high fish herbivory can lead to regime shifts from canopy‐forming algae to less complex turf communities. Here, we present an innovative herbivorous fish deterrent device (DeFish), which can be used for conservation and restoration of marine forests. Compared to most traditional fish exclusion systems, such as cages, the DeFish system does not need regular cleaning and maintenance, making it more cost‐efficient. Resistance of DeFish was tested by installing prototypes at different depths in the French Riviera and in Montenegro: more than 60% of the devices endured several years without maintenance, even if most of them were slightly damaged in the exposed site in Montenegro. The efficacy of DeFish in limiting fish herbivory was tested by an exclusion experiment on Cystoseira amentacea in the French Riviera. In a few months, the number of fish bite marks on the seaweed was decreased, causing a consequent increase in algal length. The device here presented has been conceived for Mediterranean canopy‐forming algae, but the same concept can be applied to other species vulnerable to fish herbivory, such as kelps or seagrasses. In particular, the DeFish design could be improved using more robust and biodegradable materials. Innovative engineering systems, such as DeFish, are expected to become useful tools in the conservation and restoration of marine forests, to complement other practices including active reforestation, herbivore regulation, and regular monitoring of their status.
Evaluation of systemic conditions, tooth loss, body image, and quality of life of women with obesity and women who underwent gastric bypass surgery
Authors: Foratori‐Junior Gerson Aparecido , Máscoli Leonardo Silva , Jesuino Bruno Gualtieri , Missio Alana Luiza Trenhago , Sales‐Peres Silvia Helena de Carvalho
Published: February 2020

Aim

To evaluate the systemic conditions, tooth loss, oral health, body image perceptions, and quality of life of women with obesity and women who underwent bypass surgery.

Methods and results

Sixty women were classified into the gastric bypass (G1, n = 30) and obesity (G2, n = 30) groups, and their systemic condition, oral health perception, oral hygiene, tooth loss, body image perception (Stunkard scale), and quality of life (WHOQOL‐bref) were evaluated. The t‐test, Mann‐Whitney, chi‐square, and multiple linear regression were used for statistical analysis (P < .05). G2 presented higher prevalence of hypertension (P = .020) and G1 higher prevalence of anemia (P = .040). G2 demonstrated less favorable perceptions of oral health, primarily associated with chewing (P = .0007) and speech (P = .005), and a lower frequency of dental floss usage (P = .047); however, there were no intergroup differences regarding the prevalence of missing teeth (P = .180). G1 demonstrated greater satisfaction with regard to their body image (P < .0001), contrary to those in G2, who negatively perceived the same (P = .001), particularly considering the physical, psychological, and environmental parameters (P < .05).

Conclusion

High body mass index (BMI) indicated a higher prevalence of hypertension and a negative impact on oral health perception and quality of life. However, bariatric surgery was associated with a positive body image perception and quality‐of‐life parameters.
Hidden Trilogies of Universal Quantifiers: A syntactically based analysis of arabickulland its kins
Authors: Fassi Fehri Abdelkader
Published: February 2020

Distinct senses of universal quantification are expressed not only byvocabularyinventory variation, but also throughfeaturesandcategorieswhich build the various quantifier types. It can be shown that the most productive Arabic universalkull(and arguably its kins in Semitic and other languages) conveysthreeuniversal quantifier senses, roughly equivalent to Englishall,every, andeach(and not only justtwo, as commonly assumed). Similar trilogies are observed in Greek, French, or Hebrew (with two Q words, or just one). Thanks to their feature and category specifications, universal subtypes are more appropriately characterized in terms of Merge and Move syntactic operations, as in Chomsky (1995), Beghelli and Stowell (1997), and they conform to internal composition of variational quantifier meaning (as in e.g. Szabolcsi 2010, Mathewson 2013), and appealing results about distributivity (Tunstall 1998 & Champollion 2017, among others).
The key features of highly effective training units in obstetrics and gynaecology
Authors: O’Sullivan Marie , Newell Sarah , Frost Jonathan , Mountfield Joanna
Published: February 2020

Key content

High‐quality training environments may increase job satisfaction, reduce attrition and promote excellence in education and training.

Data on training are collected through the General Medical Council Survey, Training Evaluation Form and Workforce Survey.

Attrition rates in obstetrics and gynaecology are high (30%) – among the highest across all specialties – and reasons for this include morale and undermining, training processes and paperwork, support and supervision, work–life balance, National Health Service environment and job satisfaction.

High attrition rates affect the remaining workforce and can have a negative impact on the working environment.

Learning from excellence may be more helpful than focusing on negative aspects of poor training.

Learning objectives

To understand the fundamental features of highly performing units.

To identify contributors to poor training performance.

To implement a simple structure for analysing training performance.

To learn simple interventions that can improve training.
Reliability of labeling red cell units with minor antigen historical results and process considerations
Authors: DePalma Helene , Godbey Elizabeth A. , Opalka Andrew , Parsi Mahdokht , Vege Sunitha , Lomas‐Francis Christine , Westhoff Connie M.
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Several approaches are used by blood centers when providing minor (non‐ABO/D) antigen‐negative RBCs to hospitals. Details vary but include providing results on the unit labeling intended for clinical use without retyping or providing results on packing documents or via computer query requiring confirmation. Recent regulatory changes allow labeling with historical minor antigen results, defined as previously performed by the donor center on two different donations with results linked to the donor and confirmed concordant. Here we investigate causes of discrepancies and identify critical process steps.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Nine years (2009‐2017) of data were reviewed for number, antigen system, and root cause of discrepancies flagged by the computer when retyping donors prior to labeling (internal discrepancies) or reported by the hospital when retested (external discrepancies). Licensed automated (CcEeK) and tube methods were used.

RESULTS

Among 300,000 samples phenotyped for CcEe, K, Fya/b, Jka/b, Ss (>3 million antigens), ∼1,389,960 were repeated on 2nd donation with 397 (1/3501) discordant; 205 Fy, 118 Rh, and 74 others. Of ∼682,691 antigen‐negative phenotypes provided on unit labeling, ∼37.5% (256,118) were retyped by hospitals with 29 discrepancies (1/8832), primarily Rh variants.

CONCLUSION

When repeating minor antigen types by serology, discrepancies are primarily associated with weak Fyb, among Caucasian donors, and weak/partial Rh antigens in donors of African ancestry. DNA‐based testing avoids these. To label with historical results, accuracy is increased by automated testing with direct computer interface. Testing on two donations with results confirmed to be concordant is not inferior to testing on the current donation.
Risk factors for equine recurrent uveitis in a population of Appaloosa horses in western Canada
Authors: Sandmeyer Lynne S. , Kingsley Nicole B. , Walder Cheryl , Archer Sheila , Leis Marina L. , Bellone Rebecca R. , Bauer Bianca S.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To characterize clinical manifestations, measure frequency, and evaluate risk factors for equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) in Appaloosa horses in western Canada.

Animals

145 Appaloosa horses.

Procedures

Ophthalmic examinations were completed and eyes were classified as having no or mild clinical signs, or moderate, or severe damage from ERU. Clinical signs, age, sex, base coat color, and pattern were recorded. Whole blood and/or mane hair follicles were collected for DNA extraction, and all horses were tested for the leopard complex (LP) spotting pattern allele. Pedigree analysis was completed on affected and unaffected horses, and coefficients of coancestry (CC) and inbreeding (COI) were determined.

Results

Equine recurrent uveitis was confirmed in 20 (14%) horses. The mean age of affected horses was 12.3 years (±5.3; range 3‐25). Age was a significant risk factor for ERU diagnosis (ORyear = 1.15) and classification (ORyear = 1.19). The fewspot coat pattern was significantly associated with increased risk for ERU compared to horses that were minimally patterned or true solids. TheLP/LPgenotype was at a significantly greater risk for ERU compared tolp/lp(OR = 19.4) andLP/lp(OR = 6.37). Classification of ERU was greater in theLP/LPgenotype compared toLP/lp. Affected horses had an average CC of 0.066, and there was a significant difference in the distribution of CC for affected horses versus the control group (P = .021). One affected horse was the sire or grandsire of nine other affected.

Conclusions

Age, coat pattern, and genetics are major risk factors for the diagnosis and classification of ERU in the Appaloosa.
Comparison of femoral stem subsidence between three types of press‐fit cementless total hip replacement in dogs
Authors: Mitchell Megan M. , Hudson Caleb C. , Beale Brian S.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To compare femoral stem subsidence and determine contributing factors in dogs undergoing total hip replacement (THR) with the traditional BFX, collared BFX, and BFX lateral bolt stems.

Study design

Retrospective radiographic study.

Sample population

Ninety‐three dogs with 101 THR including dogs undergoing THR with a BFX lateral bolt femoral stem (n = 40), BFX collared stem (n = 21), and traditional BFX stem (n = 40).

Methods

Radiographs of traditional BFX (n = 40), collared BFX (n = 21), and BFX lateral bolt (n = 40) THR performed from 2015 to 2018 were reviewed. Subsidence, canal flare index (CFI), stem canal fill (CF), stem orientation, and complications confirmed on radiographs were recorded at postoperative and recheck radiographs. Analysis of variance tests were used to compare subsidence, CFI, stem orientation, and CF. A χ2 analysis was performed to compare complication rates between groups.

Results

Subsidence was lower after placement of BFX lateral bolt stems (median, 0.24 mm; interquartile range [IQR; 1.49) compared with collared (1.27 mm [2.29]) and BFX (1.35 mm [2.26]) stems. No difference in subsidence was detected between collared and BFX implants. Coronal CF was greater after placement of BFX (mean ± SD, 0.72 ± 0.06) compared with lateral bolt (0.69 ± 0.05) or collared (0.66 ± 0.07) stems. Sagittal CF differed between all groups (BFX 0.7 ± 0.05, lateral bolt 0.67 ± 0.06, and collared 0.61 ± 0.06). No differences were identified in CFI or stem orientation in the coronal and sagittal planes or in complication rates between implants.

Conclusion

The BFX lateral bolt femoral stem was associated with less postoperative subsidence compared with the BFX collared and traditional BFX stems. No consistent changes in CF, CFI, or stem orientation or complication rates were identified in association with increased subsidence in this study.

Clinical significance

Implantation of a lateral bolt femoral stem should be considered during THR to prevent subsidence.
Low‐dose lithium feeding increases the SERCA2a‐to‐phospholamban ratio, improving SERCA function in murine left ventricles
Authors: Hamstra Sophie I. , Kurgan Nigel , Baranowski Ryan W. , Qiu Liqun , Watson Colton J. F. , Messner Holt N. , MacPherson Rebecca E. K. , MacNeil Adam J. , Roy Brian D. , Fajardo Val A.
Published: February 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3) has been shown to improve cardiac SERCA2a function. Lithium can inhibit GSK3, but therapeutic doses used in treating bipolar disorder can have toxic effects. It has not been determined whether subtherapeutic doses of lithium can improve cardiac SERCA function.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Using left ventricles from wild‐type mice, we found that subtherapeutic lithium feeding for 6 weeks decreased GSK3 activity and increased cardiac SERCA function compared with control‐fed mice. These findings warrant the investigation of low‐dose lithium feeding in preclinical models of cardiomyopathy and heart failure to determine the therapeutic benefit of GSK3 inhibition.

The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) pump is responsible for regulating calcium (Ca2+) within myocytes, with SERCA2a being the dominant isoform in cardiomyocytes. Its inhibitor, phospholamban (PLN), acts by decreasing the affinity of SERCA for Ca2+. Changes in the SERCA2a:PLN ratio can cause Ca2+ dysregulation often seen in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. The enzyme glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3) is known to downregulate SERCA function by decreasing the SERCA2a:PLN ratio. In this study, we sought to determine whether feeding mice low‐dose lithium, a natural GSK3 inhibitor, would improve left ventricular SERCA function by altering the SERCA2a:PLN ratio. To this end, male wild‐type C57BL/6J mice were fed low‐dose lithium via drinking water (10 mg kg−1 day−1 LiCl for 6 weeks) and left ventricles were harvested. GSK3 activity was significantly reduced in LiCl‐fed versus control‐fed mice. The apparent affinity of SERCA for Ca2+ was also increased (pCa50; control, 6.09 ± 0.03 versus LiCl, 6.26 ± 0.04, P < 0.0001) along with a 2.0‐fold increase in SERCA2a:PLN ratio in LiCl‐fed versus control‐fed mice. These findings suggest that low‐dose lithium supplementation can improve SERCA function by increasing the SERCA2a:PLN ratio. Future studies in murine preclinical models will determine whether GSK3 inhibition via low‐dose lithium could be a potential therapeutic strategy for dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure.
Development and thyroid hormone dependence of skeletal muscle mitochondrial function towards birth
Authors: Davies K. L. , Camm E. J. , Atkinson E. V. , Lopez T. , Forhead A. J. , Murray A. J. , Fowden A. L.
Published: February 2020

Key points

Skeletal muscle energy requirements increase at birth but little is known regarding the development of mitochondria that provide most of the cellular energy as ATP.

Thyroid hormones are known regulators of adult metabolism and are important in driving several aspects of fetal development, including muscle fibre differentiation.

Mitochondrial density and the abundance of mitochondrial membrane proteins in skeletal muscle increased during late gestation. However, mitochondrial functional capacity, measured as oxygen consumption rate, increased primarily after birth.

Fetal hypothyroidism resulted in significant reductions in mitochondrial function and density in skeletal muscle before birth.

Mitochondrial function matures towards birth and is dependent on the presence of thyroid hormones, with potential implications for the health of pre‐term and hypothyroid infants.

Birth is a significant metabolic challenge with exposure to a pro‐oxidant environment and the increased energy demands for neonatal survival. This study investigated the development of mitochondrial density and activity in ovine biceps femoris skeletal muscle during the perinatal period and examined the role of thyroid hormones in these processes. Muscle capacity for oxidative phosphorylation increased primarily after birth but was accompanied by prepartum increases in mitochondrial density and the abundance of electron transfer system (ETS) complexes I–IV and ATP‐synthase as well as by neonatal upregulation of uncoupling proteins. This temporal disparity between prepartum maturation and neonatal upregulation of mitochondrial oxidative capacity may protect against oxidative stress associated with birth while ensuring energy availability to the neonate. Fetal thyroid hormone deficiency reduced oxidative phosphorylation and prevented the prepartum upregulation of mitochondrial density and ETS proteins in fetal skeletal muscle. Overall, the data show that mitochondrial function matures over the perinatal period and is dependent on thyroid hormones, with potential consequences for neonatal viability and adult metabolic health.
Integrity Assessment of Internally Corroded Pipelines Rehabilitated With a Kevlar-Reinforced Flexible Liner
Authors: Fahed M. , Barsoum I. , Alfantazi A. , Islam M. D.
Published: February 2020

Contemporary approach of corrosion prevention is to use internal lining system to isolate the corrosive medium from the host pipe's inner surface. The liners serve to offer a longer lifecycle of pipelines, as well as a corrosion barrier against aggressive chemical agents. A recent lining technology based on a Kevlar-reinforced flexible polymer composite liner called the InField Liner (IFL) has been successfully installed in several pipelines. It has been theorized that the added inherent strength of the liner due to the Kevlar-reinforcement can give rise to an increase in burst pressure level of the corroded pipeline. The mechanical response of the IFL liner is established accurately and used to define the constitutive behavior of the IFL material in a nonlinear finite element model of liner installed in a host pipe with internal corrosion defect. The results reveal that an increase in burst pressure is achieved with the IFL liner, which is attributed to the interaction between the IFL and the internal corrosion defect. The increase in burst pressure is especially noted for rather deep and short length defects. The primary reason to the increase is the stretch of the Kevlar fabric into the defect cavity inducing a load transfer between the liner and pipe at the defect zone. A closed-form solution is developed, which can be used to assess the increase in burst of pipelines containing internal corrosion defects when rehabilitated with an IFL liner. The results of the study demonstrate that the IFL internal lining technology can be used as a corrosion barrier in steel pipelines for rehabilitation of old pipelines, as well as providing an increase in burst pressure level when the liner is installed due to its complex interaction with the internal corrosion defect.