bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vegetation structure influences predation rates of early nests in subarctic breeding waders
Authors: Laidlaw Rebecca A. , Gunnarsson Tómas G. , Méndez Verónica , Carneiro Camilo , Þórisson Böðvar , Wentworth Adam , Gill Jennifer A. , Alves José A.
Published: March 2020

Ground‐nesting species are vulnerable to a wide range of predators and often experience very high levels of nest predation. Strategies to reduce nest vulnerability can include concealing nests in vegetation and/or nesting in locations in which nests and eggs are camouflaged and less easy for predators to locate. These strategies could have important implications for the distribution of ground‐nesting species and the success rates of nests in areas with differing vegetation structure. However, the factors influencing the success of nest concealment and camouflage strategies in ground‐nesting species are complex. Here we explore the effects of local vegetation structure and extent of nest concealment on nest predation rates in a range of ground‐nesting, sympatric wader species with differing nest concealment strategies (open‐nest species: Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus, Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria and Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus; concealed‐nest species: Black‐tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Redshank Tringa totanus and Snipe Gallinago gallinago) in south Iceland, in landscapes that comprise substantial variability in vegetation structure at a range of scales. We monitored 469 nests of these six wader species in 2015 and 2016 and ~40% of these nests were predated. Nest predation rates were similar for open‐nest and concealed‐nest species and did not vary with vegetation structure in the surrounding landscape, but nest‐concealing species were ~10% more likely to have nests predated when they were poorly concealed, and the frequency of poorly concealed nests was higher in colder conditions at the start of the breeding season. For concealed‐nest species, the reduced capacity to hide nests in colder conditions is likely to reflect low rates of vegetation growth in such conditions. The ongoing trend for warmer springs at subarctic latitudes could result in more rapid vegetation growth, with consequent increases in the success rates of early nests of concealed‐nest species. Temperature‐related effects on nest concealment from predators could thus be an important mechanism through which climate change affecting vegetation could have population‐level impacts on breeding birds at higher latitudes.
The effect of video‐mediated communication on father‐infant bonding and transition to fatherhood during and after Satogaeri Bunben
Authors: Furukawa Ryoko , Driessnack Martha , Kobori Eiko
Published: March 2020

Aims

The study aimed to explore the effect of video‐mediated communication on father‐infant bonding and transition to fatherhood during and after Satogaeri Bunben.

Background

Satogaeri Bunben is a Japanese perinatal tradition that results in the pregnant wife and husband living apart, which may interfere with father‐infant bonding and transition to fatherhood.

Design/Methods

A mixed‐methods study was conducted from July 2012 to November 2015. Participants were divided into two groups (Treatment/Control). Quantitative data included Taiji kanjyo Hyotei Syakudo (TKHS) , communication methods, husband's visitation records and video‐mediated communication records and satisfaction of video‐mediated communication experience. Qualitative data included participants' journal entries about their experience and feelings toward their infants during Satogaeri Bunben.

Results

Fourteen treatment and thirteen control dyads/couples participated in the study. There were significant differences between groups in the frequency of fathers' visitation during Satogaeri Bunben, as well as on the THKS between groups in cross‐sectional analysis and in treatment group in longitudinal analysis. Fathers' journal entries revealed the use of video‐mediated communication in both groups, specifically commenting about these experiences and the impact of additional visual cues when communicating.

Conclusion

Video‐mediated communication provides a sense of virtual co‐presence, which may help support father‐infant bonding and transition to fatherhood; however, it does not completely substitute for face‐to‐face interaction.
Interventions and strategies to prevent catheter‐associated urinary tract infections with short‐term indwelling urinary catheters in hospitalized patients: An integrative review
Authors: Yu Shuhui , Marshall Andrea P. , Li Jing , Lin Frances
Published: March 2020

Aim

To explore interventions and strategies to prevent catheter‐associated urinary tract infections in hospitalized patients with a short‐term indwelling urinary catheter.

Background

Interventions and strategies to prevent catheter‐associated urinary tract infections are reported in the literature, but it is not clear which might be relevant when the indwelling urinary catheter is in place for a short period of time.

Methods

An integrative review was performed. A search was undertaken in databases using the following search terms: “urinary catheter, bladder catheter OR urethral catheter*”and “bundl* OR care OR manag* OR intervent*.” Electronic databases were searched up until June 2019. Manual searching of reference lists of included studies was undertaken. Twelve studies reported in 15 articles were identified and analysed by two independent reviewers.

Results

Multifaceted interventions were informed by evidence‐based protocols or guidelines. Implementation strategies included local adaption of guidelines or protocols, use of an opinion leader, audit and feedback, multidisciplinary team involvement, reminders and stop orders, and education and training.

Conclusion

Multifaceted, evidence‐based interventions to prevent catheter‐associated urinary tract infections are effective in preventing infections in patients with short‐term urinary catheters. However, there is little evidence to inform which combined strategies are more likely to be effective.
Up‐regulation of LIMK1 expression in prostate cancer is correlated with poor pathological features, lymph node metastases and biochemical recurrence
Authors: Huang Jin‐Bei , Wu Yu‐Peng , Lin Yun‐Zhi , Cai Hai , Chen Shao‐Hao , Sun Xiong‐Lin , Li Xiao‐Dong , Wei Yong , Zheng Qing‐Shui , Xu Ning , Xue Xue‐Yi
Published: March 2020

This study aimed to explore the association between LIM domain kinase 1 (LIMK1) expression in prostate cancer (PCa) tissues with advanced pathological features, lymph node metastases and biochemical recurrence. A total of 279 PCa specimens from patients who underwent radical prostatectomy and 50 benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) specimens were collected to construct tissue microarray, which were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for LIMK1 expression subsequently. Logistic and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the relationship between LIMK1 expression and clinicopathological features of patients with PCa. Immunohistochemical staining assay demonstrated that LIMK1 expression was significantly higher in PCa than BPH specimens (77.1% vs 26.0%; P < .001). LIMK1 expression was significantly higher in positive lymph node specimens than corresponding PCa specimens (P = .002; P < .001). Up‐regulation of LIMK1 was associated with prostate volume, prostate‐specific antigen, prostate‐specific antigen density, Gleason score, T stage, lymph node metastases, extracapsular extension and seminal vesicle invasion, and positive surgical margin. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that LIMK1 was an independent risk factor for PCa lymph node metastasis (P < .05). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the up‐regulation of LIMK1 was an independent risk factor for biochemical recurrence. Kaplan‐Meier analysis indicated that up‐regulation LIMK1 was associated with shortened biochemical‐free survival (BFS) after radical prostatectomy (P < .001). In conclusion, LIMK1 was significantly up‐regulated in PCa and positive lymph node specimens and correlated with lymph node metastasis and shortened BFS of PCa. The underlying molecular mechanism of LIMK1 in PCa should be further evaluated.
NONO and tumorigenesis: More than splicing
Authors: Feng Peifu , Li Ling , Deng Tanggang , Liu Yan , Ling Neng , Qiu Siyuan , Zhang Lin , Peng Bo , Xiong Wei , Cao Lanqin , Zhang Lei , Ye Mao
Published: March 2020

The non‐POU domain‐containing octamer‐binding protein NONO/p54nrb, which belongs to the Drosophila behaviour/human splicing (DBHS) family, is a multifunctional nuclear protein rarely functioning alone. Emerging solid evidences showed that NONO engages in almost every step of gene regulation, including but not limited to mRNA splicing, DNA unwinding, transcriptional regulation, nuclear retention of defective RNA and DNA repair. NONO is involved in many biological processes including cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and DNA damage repair. Dysregulation of NONO has been found in many types of cancer. In this review, we summarize the current and fast‐growing knowledge about the regulation of NONO, its biological function and implications in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Overall, significant findings about the roles of NONO have been made, which might make NONO to be a new biomarker or/and a possible therapeutic target for cancers.
Intravitreal conbercept improves outcome in patients undergoing vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pranata Raymond , Vania Amelinda
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the latest evidence concerning the efficacy of conbercept on vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and its efficacy compared to control and other antivascular endothelial growth factor.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search on topics that assess the role of conbercept in patients undergoing vitrectomy for PDR from inception to November 2019, using PubMed, EuropePMC, Cochrane Central Database, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Clinicaltrials.gov. Two researchers independently searched literature, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias. RevMan 5.3 and StataMP 16 software were used to perform data analysis.

Results

There were 699 cases (eyes) from eight studies. Baseline best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was better in the control group compared to conbercept group (mean difference [MD] = 0.13, I2 = 0%). A greater BCVA improvement was observed in the conbercept group after 1‐month (MD = –0.27, I2 = 1%), 3‐month (MD = –0.28, I2 = 0%), and 6‐month (MD = –0.20, I2 = 78%) follow‐up. The need for endodiathermy (odds ratio [OR] = 0.20, I2 = 0%) and silicone oil tamponade use (OR = 0.59, I2 = 72%) and intraoperative bleeding (OR = 0.11, I2 = 33%) was lower in conbercept group. Postoperative early (OR = 0.22, I2 = 0%) and late (OR = 0.47, I2 = 0%) vitreous hemorrhage was lower in conbercept group. There was no significant difference in BCVA improvement and intraoperative outcome between conbercept and ranibizumab.

Conclusions

Intravitreal conbercept was associated with a more significant BCVA improvement, better intraoperative outcome, and less postoperative vitreous hemorrhage compared to no conbercept.
A new species of Hyphessobrycon Durbin (Characiformes: Characidae) from the western Amazon basin in Colombia and Peru
Authors: García‐Alzate Carlos Arturo , Lima Flavio , Taphorn Donald Charles , Mojica Jose Ivan , Urbano‐Bonilla Alexander , Teixeira Tulio Franco
Published: March 2020

Hyphessobrycon chiribiquete n. sp. is described from the Río Caquetá drainage in Colombia and the Río Ucayali drainage in Peru, western Amazon. The new species is diagnosed from its congeners by having the following combination of characters: a conspicuous narrow midlateral stripe, starting on the sides of the body behind the opercle near the lateral line; lateral stripe overlapped anteriorly with a vertically elongated humeral blotch; inner premaxillary teeth pentacuspid; margin of anal fin falcate in mature males.
A new species of trout from the northern drainages of Euphrates River, Turkey (Salmoniformes: Salmonidae)
Authors: Turan Davut , Kalaycι Gökhan , Bektaş Yusuf , Kaya Cüneyt , Bayçelebi Esra
Published: March 2020

Salmo fahrettini, a new species, is distributed in the northern tributaries of the Euphrates River. It differs from other Salmo species in adjacent waters by a combination of the following characters: a greyish body; one black spot behind the eye and on the cheek; three to six black spots on the opercle; numerous black spots on the back (missing on the predorsal area), flank and middle part of body, surrounded by a roundish white ring; red spots in the median part of the body, surrounded by a roundish white ring; short and narrow maxilla; increase in the number of black and red spots with an increase in size; adipose fin medium size, no or rarely one red spot at its posterior edge; 109–116 lateral line scales; 27–30 scale rows between dorsal‐fin origin and lateral line; 20–23 scale rows between the lateral line and anal‐fin origin; maxilla length 8.8–10.0% standard length in males, 8.8–9.6 in females.
Morphological and physiological traits of Mediterranean sticklebacks living in the Camargue wetland (Rhone river delta)
Authors: Rind Khalid , Rodriguez‐Barucg Quentin , Nicolas Delphine , Cucchi Patricia , Lignot Jehan‐Hervé
Published: March 2020

Three‐spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus L.) living at the southern limit of the species distribution range could possess specific morphological and physiological traits that enable these fish to live at the threshold of their physiological capacities. Morphological analysis was carried out on samples of sticklebacks living in different saline habitats of the Camargue area (Rhone delta, northern Mediterranean coast) obtained from 1993 to 2017. Salinity acclimation capacities were also investigated using individuals from freshwater‐low salinity drainage canals and from mesohaline–euryhaline lagoons. Fish were maintained in laboratory conditions at salinity values close to those of their respective habitats: low salinity (LS, 5‰) or seawater (SW, 30‰). Fish obtained from a mesohaline brackish water lagoon (BW, 15‰) were acclimated to SW or LS. Oxygen consumption rates and branchial Na+/K+‐ATPase (NKA) activity (indicator of fish osmoregulatory capacity) were measured in these LS or SW control fish and in individuals subjected to abrupt SW or LS transfers. At all the studied locations, only the low‐plated “leiurus” morphotype showed no spatial or temporal variations in their body morphology. Gill rakers were only longer and denser in fish sampled from the LS–freshwater (FW) drainage canals. All fish presented similar physiological capacities. Oxygen consumption rates were not influenced by salinity challenge except in SW fish transferred to LS immediately and 1 h after transfer. However, and as expected, gill NKA activity was salinity dependent. Sticklebacks of the Camargue area sampled from habitats with contrasted saline conditions are homogenously euryhaline, have low oxygen consumption rates and do not appear to experience significantly greater metabolic costs when challenged with salinity. However, an observed difference in gill raker length and density is most probably related to the nutritional condition of their habitat, indicating that individuals can rapidly acclimatize to different diets.
Whole‐genome next‐generation sequencing and phylogenetic characterization of viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus in Korea
Authors: Hwang Jee Youn , Ahn Sang Jung , Kwon Mun‐Gyeong , Seo Jung Soo , Hwang Seong Don , Jee Bo Young
Published: March 2020

Whole‐genome next‐generation sequencing was used to investigate the local evolution of viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus, a serious pathogen affecting economically important fish such as rainbow trout and turbot in Europe and olive flounder in Asia. Sequence analysis showed that all isolates were genotype IVa, but could be classified further into four subgroups (K1–K4). In addition, genomic regions encompassing the nucleoprotein, phosphoprotein, matrix protein and non‐virion protein genes, as well as the seven non‐coding regions, were relatively conserved, whereas glycoprotein and RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase genes were variable in the coding region. Taken together, the data demonstrate that whole‐genome next‐generation sequencing may be useful for future surveillance, prevention and control strategies against viral haemorrhagic septicaemia.
Equivalent efficacies of reverse hybrid and concomitant therapies in first‐line treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Hsu Ping‐I , Tsay Feng‐Woei , Kao John Y , Peng Nan‐Jing , Tsai Kuo‐Wang , Tsai Tzung‐Jiun , Kuo Chao‐Hung , Kao Sung‐Shuo , Wang Huay‐Min , Chen Yan‐Hua , Shie Chang‐Bih , Wu Deng‐Chyang ,   Taiwan Acid‐related Disease & Microbiota (TARD‐M) Consortium
Published: March 2020

Background and Aim

Concomitant therapy is a recommended first‐line treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection in most national or international consensuses. Reverse hybrid therapy is a modified 14‐day concomitant therapy without clarithromycin and metronidazole in the final 7 days. This study aims to test whether 14‐day reverse hybrid therapy is non‐inferior to 14‐day concomitant therapy in the first‐line treatment of H. pylori infection.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori‐infected adult patients were randomly assigned to receive either reverse hybrid therapy (dexlansoprazole 60 mg o.d. plus amoxicillin 1 g b.d. for 14 days, and clarithromycin 500 mg plus metronidazole 500 mg b.d. for initial 7 days) or concomitant therapy (dexlansoprazole 60 mg once o.d. plus amoxicillin 1 g, clarithromycin 500 mg, and metronidazole 500 mg b.d. for 14 days). H. pylori status was assessed 6 weeks after the end of treatment.

Results

Helicobacter pylori‐infected participants (n = 248) were randomized to receive either 14‐day reverse hybrid therapy (n = 124) or 14‐day concomitant therapy (n = 124). Intention‐to‐treat analysis demonstrated that the two therapies had comparable eradication rate (95.2% vs 93.5%; 95% confidence interval, −4.0% to 7.4%; P = 0.582). However, reverse hybrid therapy had a much lower frequency of adverse events than concomitant therapy (20.2% vs 38.7%, P = 0.001). The two therapies exhibited comparable drug adherence (93.5% vs 87.9%, P = 0.125).

Conclusions

Fourteen‐day reverse hybrid therapy and 14‐day concomitant therapy are equivalent in efficacy for the first‐line treatment of H. pylori infection. However, reverse hybrid therapy has fewer adverse events compared with concomitant therapy.
Thyroid Function and Sarcopenia: Results from the ELSA‐Brasil Study
Authors: Szlejf Claudia , Suemoto Claudia K. , Janovsky Carolina C.P.S. , Barreto Sandhi M. , Diniz Maria de Fátima H.S. , Lotufo Paulo A. , Bensenor Isabela M.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the association of subclinical thyroid disease and thyroid hormone levels with sarcopenia and its defining components in community‐dwelling middle‐aged and older adults without overt thyroid dysfunction.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional study.

SETTING

Active and retired employees from public institutions located in six Brazilian cities.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 6974 participants from the ELSA‐Brasil study's second wave, aged 50 years and older, without overt thyroid dysfunction and with complete data for exposure, outcome, and covariates.

METHODS

Serum levels of thyrotropin (TSH), free thyroxine, and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were measured and divided in quintiles for the analyses. Participants were classified with euthyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, and subclinical hyperthyroidism. Muscle mass was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis and muscle strength by handgrip strength. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health criteria. Possible confounders included sociodemographic characteristics, clinical conditions, and lifestyle. Analyses were performed separately for middle‐aged and older adults (≥65 y).

RESULTS

The frequencies of sarcopenia, low muscle mass, low muscle strength, subclinical hypothyroidism, and subclinical hyperthyroidism were 1.5%, 20.8%, 3.8%, 9.1%, and .9%, respectively. Subclinical thyroid dysfunction was not associated with sarcopenia and its defining components. Among older adults, TSH had a U‐shaped association with sarcopenia and low muscle strength. The odds ratios (ORs) (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) for the associations of the first, second, fourth, and fifth quintile with sarcopenia, respectively, were 5.18 (1.47‐18.28), 6.28 (1.82‐21.73), 4.12 (1.15‐14.76), and 4.81 (1.35‐17.10), and with low muscle strength was (OR (95% CI) for the first, second, and fifth quintiles, respectively: 1.43 (1.16‐5.07), 2.07 (1.24‐4.70), and 2.18 (1.03‐4.60). Additionally, FT3 had a negative association with muscle mass in both age strata.

CONCLUSION

Subtle thyroid hormone alterations are associated with sarcopenia or its defining components in middle‐aged and older adults without overt thyroid dysfunction. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1545‐1553, 2020.
Stimulation of collagenesis by poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) and ‐glycolide polymer (PLGA)‐containing absorbable suspension suture and parallel sustained clinical benefit
Authors: Goldberg David J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Though the collagen‐stimulating capacity of poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) is well established, no data are available on collagen stimulation by the PLLA/PLGA within absorbable suspension sutures used for tissue repositioning.

Aims

To characterize collagen stimulation by absorbable suspension sutures through examination of patient biopsies and assess severity of nasolabial folds (NLF) over time.

Patients/Methods

Single‐center, open‐label, prospective study of 25 healthy volunteers treated with absorbable suspension sutures for descent of midface tissues. Punch biopsies were collected and evaluated for total collagen content. Subject and investigators evaluated NLF severity using the Nasolabial Fold Wrinkle Assessment Score (NLF‐WAS). Seventeen of 25 patients completed the collagenesis portion of the study.

Results

Collagen deposition was apparent at day 90 and increased significantly compared with baseline at days 180 and 270 and between days 90 and 180. Subject‐ and investigator‐reported NLF‐WAS were significantly improved at all post‐treatment time points through day 270.

Conclusions

Absorbable suspension sutures stimulate collagen in areas immediately adjacent to the path of the PLLA/PLGA monofilament and cones, providing mechanistic support for improvement in appearance observed in clinical studies. This neocollagenesis, coupled with repositioning by the suture's cones, makes absorbable suspension sutures a valuable tool for patients seeking facial rejuvenation.
Successful surgical treatment of cardiac metastasis from uterine leiomyosarcoma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Maebayashi Aki , Nagaishi Masaji , Nakajima Takahiro , Hata Mitsumasa , Xiaoyan Tang , Kawana Kei
Published: March 2020

Uterine leiomyosarcoma is a malignant soft tissue tumor resembling uterine fibroma clinically and is difficult to diagnose preoperatively. Since metastatic cardiac tumors are very rare and asymptomatic, most cardiac metastases are detected at autopsy after death due to other diseases. A 49‐year‐old woman presented with menorrhagia and anemia, and a uterine tumor. Total hysterectomy was performed for the uterine tumor. Histopathological examination revealed the tumor to be a leiomyosarcoma. Postoperative computed tomography showed multiple lung metastases and a metastatic cardiac tumor. The cardiac tumor, which was located within and almost entirely occluded the right ventricle, was 49 × 26 mm. To prevent sudden death, cardiac tumorectomy was performed semi‐emergently. Chemotherapy was initiated in the early postoperative period, and the patient currently maintains a complete response. Cases with lung and cardiac metastases rarely undergo surgical resection of metastatic tumors. However, emergent surgical resection of cardiac metastatic tumors should be considered to prevent sudden death.
Effect of dietary tannins on milk yield and composition, nitrogen partitioning and nitrogen use efficiency of lactating dairy cows: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Herremans Sophie , Vanwindekens Frédéric , Decruyenaere Virginie , Beckers Yves , Froidmont Eric
Published: March 2020

Tannins are secondary plant compounds which have been extensively studied in order to improve the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of ruminants. A meta‐analysis was performed of 58 in vivo experiments comparing milk yield, composition and nitrogen metabolism of lactating dairy cows fed diets with or without tannins. The meta‐analysis shows that tannins have no impact on corrected milk yield, fat and protein content or NUE (p > .05). However, tannins reduce ruminal ammoniacal nitrogen (N) production by 16% (from 10.95 to 8.47 mg/dl on average), milk urea by 9% (from 15.82 to 14.03 mg/dl) and urinary N excretion (−11%; p < .05). This is compensated for by a lower apparent N digestibility (61.51% with dietary tannins compared to 66.17% without). The effect of tannin on N metabolism parameters increases with tannin dose (p < .05). The shift from urinary to faecal N may be beneficial for environment preservation, as urinary N induces more harmful emissions than faecal N. From a farmer's perspective, tannins seem unable to increase fat‐ and protein‐corrected milk yield or reduce feed protein requirements and thus have no direct economic benefit. Potentially less costly than tannin extracts, forage or by‐products naturally rich in tannins could still be useful to reduce the environmental impact of ruminant protein feeding.
Polyphyly and species delimitation of Picea brachytyla (Pinaceae) based on population genetic data
Authors: Lyu Le‐Ke , Wang Dong‐Lei , Li Long , Zhu Ying‐Ying , Jiang De‐Chun , Liu Jian‐Quan , Xu Xiao‐Ting
Published: March 2020

Accurate species delimitation is fundamental to biodiversity conservation. The endangered spruce Picea brachytyla (Franch.) E. Pritz. was suggested to be polyphyletic based on a limited number of samples in previous studies. To evaluate polyphyly of P. brachytyla, we sampled 139 individuals from 16 populations across most of its distributional range, plus representatives of two related species, Picea likiangensis (Franch.) E. Pritz. and Picea wilsonii Mast. We sequenced 13 nuclear loci and three chloroplast and two mitochondrial loci for the following species delimitation. Phylogenetic analyses of nuclear loci grouped all individuals of P. brachytyla from Sichuan and Chongqing into one distinct lineage and those from Yunnan and Tibet (southern distribution) nested within the P. likiangensis species complex. Structure analyses confirmed this result. Networks of chloroplast DNA haplotypes similarly showed that P. brachytyla from the southern distribution nested within the P. likiangensis species complex, whereas haplotypes for the northern distribution comprised a separate and well‐supported lineage. These results suggest that P. brachytyla from the southern distribution is a part of the P. likiangensis species complex and should be removed from P. brachytyla. Our study highlights the utility of population genetic evidence in delimitating endangered species and understanding the conservation status of such species.
The effect of transobturator tape operation on sexual functions of a patient with stress urinary incontinence and patient's spouse
Authors: Oğlak Süleyman Cemil , Obut Mehmet
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This prospective study aimed to investigate the effects of transobturator tape (TOT) procedure on patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and their spouses' sexual function.

Material and methods

A total of 157 patients with SUI who underwent TOT operation between January 2017 and May 2019 and their spouses were included. All patients enrolled filled out the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ‐7), the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI‐6), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and patients' spouses filled out International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) before surgery and 6 months after the surgery.

Results

The mean value of IIQ‐7 and UDI‐6 questionnaires in the sixth month after the TOT surgery was lower than the mean scores of these questionnaires before surgery (P < .001). The mean value of the FSFI score was 21.84 ± 1.76 before the surgery and 25.43 ± 1.84 in the sixth month after the surgery (P < .001). There was a significant improvement in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain scores on the FSFI domains (P < .001, <.001, <.001, <.001, <.001 and <.05, respectively). The mean value of the IIEF‐5 score of patients' spouses was 48.31 ± 5.23 before surgery and 57.87 ± 7.22 in the sixth month after the surgery (P < .001). Significant improvement was observed in IIEF‐5 score regarding sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction domains (P = .012, .002, and .006, respectively).

Conclusion

TOT surgery significantly improves the sexual functions of both patients and their spouses.
A review of mammal eradications on Mediterranean islands
Authors: Capizzi Dario
Published: March 2020

Impacts of alien invasive species on island communities and ecosystems may be even more detrimental than on the mainland. Therefore, since the 1950s, hundreds of restoration projects have been implemented worldwide, with the aim of controlling or eradicating alien species from islands. To date, no review has been focused on eradication on Mediterranean islands. To fill the gap, I reviewed the available information concerning mammal eradications so far carried out on Mediterranean islands, examining the details of several aspects of project implementation and monitoring.

I obtained data for 139 attempted eradications on 107 Mediterranean islands in eight countries, with Greece, Italy, and Spain accounting for the highest number. Eradication projects targeted 13 mammal species. The black rat Rattus rattus was the target of over 75% of the known attempted eradications in the Mediterranean Basin; other species targeted were feral goat Capra hircus, house mouse Mus musculus, European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus, and domestic cat Felis catus. The most widely adopted technique was poisoning (77% of all eradications), followed by trapping (15%) and hunting (4%). However, techniques were largely target‐specific.

The average failure rate was about 11%. However, this percentage varied according to the specific mammalian order, and eradications of Carnivora failed more often than those of other mammals. Among rodents, house mouse eradication attained a very high failure rate (75%). Reinvasion occurred after 15% of successful eradications.

A better understanding of the motivations of animal rights activists may improve the chance of success when eradicating charismatic or domesticated species. Furthermore, it is crucial to collect data and case studies about reinvasions, in order to strengthen biosecurity programmes following eradication. As in other parts of the world, the next frontier in alien mammal management on Mediterranean islands concerns the eradication of invasive species from inhabited islands.
Manometric demonstration of duodenal/jejunal motor function consistent with the duodenal brake mechanism
Authors: Dent John , Deloose Eveline , Dinning Philip , Corsetti Maura , Rommel Nathalie , Tack Jan , Wiklendt Lukasz , Papageorgiou Anthony William , Arkwright John William
Published: March 2020

Background

High‐resolution manometric studies below the stomach are rare due to technical limitations of traditional manometry catheters. Consequently, specific motor patterns and their impact on gastric and small bowel function are not well understood. High‐resolution manometry was used to record fed‐state motor patterns in the antro‐jejunal segment and relate these to fasting motor function.

Methods

Antro‐jejunal pressures were monitored in 15 healthy females using fiber‐optic manometry (72 sensors at 1 cm intervals) before and after a high‐nutrient drink.

Key Results

Postprandial motility showed a previously unreported transition point 18.8 cm (range 13‐28 cm) beyond the antro‐pyloric junction. Distal to the transition, a zone of non‐propagating, repetitive pressure events (11.5 ± 0.5 cpm) were dominant in the fed state. We have named this activity, the duodeno‐jejunal complex (DJC). Continuous DJC activity predominated, but nine subjects also exhibited intermittent clusters of DJC activity, 7.4 ± 4.9/h, lasting 1.4 ± 0.55 minutes, and 3.8 ± 1.2 minutes apart. DJC activity was less prevalent during fasting (3.6 ± 3.3/h; P = .04). 78% of fed and fasting state propagating antro‐duodenal pressure events terminated proximally or at the transition point and were closely associated with DJC clusters.

Conclusions and Inferences

High‐resolution duodeno‐jejunal manometry revealed a previously unrecognized transition point and associated motor pattern extending into the jejunum, consistent with the duodenal brake previously identified fluoroscopically. Timing suggests DJC activity is driven by chyme stimulating duodenal mucosal chemosensors. These findings indicate that the duodenum and proximal jejunum consists of two major functional motor regions.
High‐fat diet–induced alterations to gut microbiota and gut‐derived lipoteichoic acid contributes to the development of enteric neuropathy
Authors: Nyavor Yvonne , Brands Catherine R. , May George , Kuther Sydney , Nicholson Jessica , Tiger Kathryn , Tesnohlidek Abigail , Yasuda Allysha , Starks Kiefer , Litvinenko Diana , Linden David R. , Bhattarai Yogesh , Kashyap Purna C. , Forney Larry J. , Balemba Onesmo B.
Published: March 2020

Background

High‐fat diet, microbial alterations and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are thought to cause enteric diabetic neuropathy and intestinal dysmotility. However, the role of the gut microbiota, lipoteichoic acid (LTA) from Gram‐positive bacteria and short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the development of diabetic enteric neuropathy and intestinal dysmotility is not well understood. Our aim was to examine the role of the gut microbiota, LTA and SCFAs in the development of diabetic enteric neuropathy and intestinal dysmotility.

Methods

We fed germ‐free (GF) and conventionally raised (CR) mice either a high‐fat (HFD) or standard chow diet (SCD) for 8 weeks. We analyzed the microbial community composition in CR mice using 16S rRNA sequencing and damage to myenteric neurons using immunohistochemistry. We also studied the effects of LPS, LTA, and SCFAs on duodenal muscularis externa contractions and myenteric neurons using cultured preparations.

Key Results

High‐fat diet ingestion reduced the total number and the number of nitrergic myenteric neurons per ganglion in the duodenum of CR but not in GF‐HFD mice. GF mice had fewer neurons per ganglion compared with CR mice. CR mice fed a HFD had increased abundance of Gram‐positive bacteria. LTA and LPS did not affect the frequency of duodenal muscularis contractions after 24 hours of cultured but reduced the density of nitrergic myenteric neurons and increased oxidative stress and TNFα production in myenteric ganglia. SCFAs did not affect muscularis contractions or injure myenteric neurons.

Conclusions & Inferences

Gut microbial alterations induced increase in Gram‐positive bacterial LTA may contribute to enteric neuropathy.
Natural variation in the promoter of TGW2 determines grain width and weight in rice
Authors: Ruan Banpu , Shang Lianguang , Zhang Bin , Hu Jiang , Wang Yuexing , Lin Hai , Zhang Anpeng , Liu Chaolei , Peng Youlin , Zhu Li , Ren Deyong , Shen Lan , Dong Guojun , Zhang Guangheng , Zeng Dali , Guo Longbiao , Qian Qian , Gao Zhenyu
Published: March 2020

Understanding the genetic basis of natural variation in grain size among diverse rice varieties can help breeders develop high‐yielding rice cultivars.

Here, we report the discovery of qTGW2, a new semidominant quantitative trait locus for grain width and weight. The corresponding gene, TGW2, encodes CELL NUMBER REGULATOR 1 (OsCNR1) localized to the plasma membrane.

A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variation 1818 bp upstream of TGW2 is responsible for its different expression, leading to alteration in grain width and weight by influencing cell proliferation and expansion in glumes. TGW2 interacts with KRP1, a regulator of cell cycle in plants, to negatively regulate grain width and weight. Genetic diversity analysis of TGW2 in 141 rice accessions revealed it as a breeding target in a selective sweep region.

Our findings provide new insights into the genetic mechanism underlying grain morphology and grain weight, and uncover a promising gene for improving rice yield.
Time to Surgery Reduction in Hip Fracture Patients on an Integrated Orthogeriatric Unit: A Comparative Study of Three Healthcare Models
Authors: Pablos‐Hernández Carmen , González‐Ramírez Alfonso , da Casa Carmen , Luis Maria Margarida , García‐Iglesias María Aránzazu , Julián‐Enriquez Jose Miguel , Rodríguez‐Sánchez Emiliano , Blanco Juan F
Published: March 2020

Objective

To investigate the clinical efficacy of three different healthcare models (Traditional Model, Geriatric Consultant Model, and Orthogeriatric Unit Model) consecutively applied to a single academic center (University Hospital of Salamanca, Spain) for older hip fracture patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study, including 2741 hip fracture patients older than 64 years, admitted between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2014 to the University Hospital of Salamanca. Patients were divided into three groups according to the healthcare model applied. There were 983 patients on the Traditional Model, 945 patients on the Geriatric Consultant Model, and 813 patients on the Orthogeriatric Unit Model. We recorded age and gender of patients, functional status at admission (Barthel Index, Katz Index, and Physical Red Cross Scale), type of fracture, and intervention, and we analyzed the length of stay, time to surgery, post‐surgical stay, and in‐hospital mortality according to the healthcare model applied.

Results

Hip fractures are much more frequent in women, and an increase in the average age of patients was observed along with the study (P < 0.001). The most common type of fracture in the three models studied was an extracapsular fracture, for which the most common surgical procedure used was osteosynthesis. On the functional status of patients, there were no differences on the ambulatory ability previous to fracture, measured by the Physical Red Cross Scale, and the percentage of patients with a slight dependence determined by the Barthel Index (>60) was similar in both groups, but considering the Katz Index, the percentage of patients with a high degree of independence (A‐B) was significantly higher for the group of patients treated on the Orthogeriatric Unit Model period (56%, P = 0.009).

The Orthogeriatric Unit Model registered the greatest percentage of patients undergoing surgery (96.1%, P < 0.001) and the greatest number of early surgical procedures (<24 h) (24.8%, P < 0.001). The orthogeriatric unit model showed the shortest duration of stay (9 days median), decreasing by one day in respect of each of the other models studied (P < 0.001). Time to surgery was also significantly reduced with the Orthogeriatric Unit Model (median of 3 days, P < 0.001). With regard to in‐hospital follow‐up, there was a reduction in in‐hospital mortality during the study period. We observed differences among the three healthcare models, but without statistical significance.

Conclusions

The healthcare model based on an Orthogeriatric Unit seems to be the most efficient, because it reaches a reduction in time to surgery, with an increased number of patients surgically treated on in the first 24 h, and the greatest frequency of surgically‐treated patients.
Pharmacokinetics of an intravenous bolus dose of clonidine in children undergoing surgery
Authors: Nielsen Bettina N. , Anderson Brian J. , Falcon Lars , Henneberg Steen W. , Lauritsen Torsten , Lomstein Erik , Ydemann Mogens , Afshari Arash
Published: March 2020

Background

Clonidine is used off‐label in children but only limited pediatric pharmacokinetic data are available for intravenously administered clonidine.

Objectives

To determine pharmacokinetic parameter estimates of clonidine in healthy children undergoing surgery and to investigate age‐related differences. Furthermore, to investigate possible pharmacokinetic differences of clonidine between this group of children and a cohort with cardiac diseases.

Methods

In a randomized placebo‐controlled trial (The PREVENT AGITATION trial), blood samples for clonidine pharmacokinetic analysis were collected in a proportion of the enrolled patients. Healthy children with ASA score 1‐2 in the age‐groups 1 to <2 years and 2‐5 years were randomized for blood sampling. Clonidine was administered as a single intravenous bolus of 3 µg/kg intraoperatively. Blood samples were drawn at baseline, 5, 10, 15, 30, 60 minutes after dosing and additionally every hour until discharge from the PACU. Clonidine analysis was performed on liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry.

Results

Data form eighteen children were available for pharmacokinetic analysis (ASA I; male/female: 17/1; age: 1‐5 years; weight 8.7‐24 kg). Population parameter estimates for the 2‐compartment model were similar to previous published data for children who underwent cardiac surgery. A pooled analysis including data from 59 children indicated clearance of 14.4 L h−1 70 kg−1 and volume of distribution of 192.6 L 70 kg−1. No age‐related pharmacokinetic differences and no difference in time from administration of study medication to awakening were found. Children 1 to <2 years had a shorter PACU stay than children 2‐5 years (mean difference 17% 95% CI:3%‐34%, P = .02).

Conclusion

Pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were similar for children undergoing general surgery and cardiac surgery given a single dose of intravenous clonidine. These results indicated that no dose reduction is needed in children aged 1 to <2 years compared with those 2‐5 years, which was supported by pharmacodynamic observations.
Arachis hypogaea gene expression atlas for fastigiata subspecies of cultivated groundnut to accelerate functional and translational genomics applications
Authors: Sinha Pallavi , Bajaj Prasad , Pazhamala Lekha T. , Nayak Spurthi N. , Pandey Manish K. , Chitikineni Annapurna , Huai Dongxin , Khan Aamir W. , Desai Aarthi , Jiang Huifang , Zhuang Weijian , Guo Baozhu , Liao Boshou , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: March 2020

Spatio‐temporal and developmental stage‐specific transcriptome analysis plays a crucial role in systems biology‐based improvement of any species. In this context, we report here the Arachis hypogaea gene expression atlas (AhGEA) for the world's widest cultivated subsp. fastigiata based on RNA‐seq data using 20 diverse tissues across five key developmental stages. Approximately 480 million paired‐end filtered reads were generated followed by identification of 81 901 transcripts from an early‐maturing, high‐yielding, drought‐tolerant groundnut variety, ICGV 91114. Further, 57 344 genome‐wide transcripts were identified with ≥1 FPKM across different tissues and stages. Our in‐depth analysis of the global transcriptome sheds light into complex regulatory networks namely gravitropism and photomorphogenesis, seed development, allergens and oil biosynthesis in groundnut. Importantly, interesting insights into molecular basis of seed development and nodulation have immense potential for translational genomics research. We have also identified a set of stable expressing transcripts across the selected tissues, which could be utilized as internal controls in groundnut functional genomics studies. The AhGEA revealed potential transcripts associated with allergens, which upon appropriate validation could be deployed in the coming years to develop consumer‐friendly groundnut varieties. Taken together, the AhGEA touches upon various important and key features of cultivated groundnut and provides a reference for further functional, comparative and translational genomics research for various economically important traits.
Dynamics of sun‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence and reflectance to detect stress‐induced variations in canopy photosynthesis
Authors: Pinto Francisco , Celesti Marco , Acebron Kelvin , Alberti Giorgio , Cogliati Sergio , Colombo Roberto , Juszczak Radosław , Matsubara Shizue , Miglietta Franco , Palombo Angelo , Panigada Cinzia , Pignatti Stefano , Rossini Micol , Sakowska Karolina , Schickling Anke , Schüttemeyer Dirk , Stróżecki Marcin , Tudoroiu Marin , Rascher Uwe
Published: March 2020

Passive measurement of sun‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (F) represents the most promising tool to quantify changes in photosynthetic functioning on a large scale. However, the complex relationship between this signal and other photosynthesis‐related processes restricts its interpretation under stress conditions. To address this issue, we conducted a field campaign by combining daily airborne and ground‐based measurements of F (normalized to photosynthetically active radiation), reflectance and surface temperature and related the observed changes to stress‐induced variations in photosynthesis. A lawn carpet was sprayed with different doses of the herbicide Dicuran. Canopy‐level measurements of gross primary productivity indicated dosage‐dependent inhibition of photosynthesis by the herbicide. Dosage‐dependent changes in normalized F were also detected. After spraying, we first observed a rapid increase in normalized F and in the Photochemical Reflectance Index, possibly due to the blockage of electron transport by Dicuran and the resultant impairment of xanthophyll‐mediated non‐photochemical quenching. This initial increase was followed by a gradual decrease in both signals, which coincided with a decline in pigment‐related reflectance indices. In parallel, we also detected a canopy temperature increase after the treatment. These results demonstrate the potential of using F coupled with relevant reflectance indices to estimate stress‐induced changes in canopy photosynthesis.
Outcome after pediatric liver transplantation for staged abdominal wall closure with use of biological mesh—Study with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Gül‐Klein Safak , Dziodzio Tomasz , Martin Friederike , Kästner Anika , Witzel Christian , Globke Brigitta , Jara Maximilian , Ritschl Paul Viktor , Henning Stephan , Gratopp Alexander , Bufler Philip , Schöning Wenzel , Schmelzle Moritz , Pratschke Johann , Öllinger Robert
Published: March 2020

Abdominal wall closure after pediatric liver transplantation (pLT) in infants may be hampered by graft‐to‐recipient size discrepancy. Herein, we describe the use of a porcine dermal collagen acellular graft (PDCG) as a biological mesh (BM) for abdominal wall closure in pLT recipients. Patients <2 years of age, who underwent pLT from 2011 to 2014, were analyzed, divided into definite abdominal wall closure with and without implantation of a BM. Primary end‐point was the occurrence of postoperative abdominal wall infection. Secondary end‐points included 1‐ and 5‐year patient and graft survival and the development of abdominal wall hernia. In five out of 21 pLT recipients (23.8%), direct abdominal wall closure was achieved, whereas 16 recipients (76.2%) received a BM. BM removal was necessary in one patient (6.3%) due to abdominal wall infection, whereas no abdominal wall infection occurred in the no‐BM group. No significant differences between the two groups were observed for 1‐ and 5‐year patient and graft survival. Two late abdominal wall hernias were observed in the BM group vs none in the no‐BM group. Definite abdominal wall closure with a BM after pLT is feasible and safe when direct closure cannot be achieved with comparable postoperative patient and graft survival rates.