bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐elevation warm‐edge Fagus crenata populations in the core of the species range are glacial relicts with high conservation value
Authors: Worth James R. P. , Shitara Takuto , Kitamura Keiko , Kikuchi Satoshi , Kanetani Seiichi , Matsui Tetsuya , Uchiyama Kentaro , Tomaru Nobuhiro
Published: December 2022

Warm‐edge populations, that is, those usually small and isolated populations at the boundary of species maximum temperature range limit, are of particular scientific and conservation interest. This is especially the case for those that have long been geographically isolated, possibly through multiple glaciations, as they can contribute significantly to species' overall genetic diversity. However, distinguishing between glacial relict and more recently established warm‐edge populations is difficult especially in the absence of a continuous fossil record. In this study, we investigate the origin of anomalously low‐elevation warm‐edge populations of the dominant cool temperate Japanese tree Fagus crenata in the northeast Kanto (NEK) region. We sought to determine whether these populations are glacial relicts or, rather, were established via dispersal in the Holocene using chloroplast and nuclear genetic data, species distribution modeling and comparison with populations in a well‐established glacial refugia (south‐central Kyushu [SCK]) and of mid‐late Holocene age (southern Hokkaido [SH]). Whole chloroplast genome “mining” revealed a similar amount of haplotype diversity in NEK and SCK while there was no chloroplast variation in SH. Populations in NEK, particularly the lowest elevation sites, harbored unique haplotypes providing evidence for their persistence since the Last Glacial Maximum as supported by species distribution models under two of three general circulation models. NEK populations also lacked the genetic signatures of recent expansion that characterize the most northern‐edge populations in SH. We conclude that warm‐edge populations in NEK are most likely relicts of glacial refugia and should be given high priority for conservation.
The (postcolonial) return of grand theory in American sociology: Julian Go on postcolonial thought and social theory
Authors: Favell Adrian
Published: December 2022

Julian Go's BJS annual lecture is discussed in reference to his landmark OUP text Postcolonial Thought and Social Theory (2016). Go is one of the most prominent names in a "third wave" of post‐colonial thought, now spearheading a post‐ (or de‐) colonial turn in sociological theory, something that has professionally revived the sub‐field of "grand" social theory in mainstream US sociology. While endorsing the aims and substantive themes of this turn, the review raises questions about the delayed timing of this post‐colonial wave in the discipline, both relative to the humanities more generally, and to the impact of post‐colonialism in other national contexts. Go's challenge is, in effect, something quite particular to teaching social theory in the US sociology context. The review goes on to question how effectively the critique speaks to mainstream empirical practitioners, given its lack of focus on transforming technical methods. It concludes by raising concerns about the relationship of Go and other "third wave" decolonial theorists to Marxism and Marxist politics.
Involvement of MMP‐9 in collagen degradation of sea bass (Lateolabrax japonicus): Cloning, expression, and characterization
Authors: Yang Ru‐Qing , Chen Yu‐Lei , Sun Le‐Chang , Ou Wei , Liu Hai‐Yan , Zhang Ling‐Jing , Liu Guang‐Ming , Zhao Guanghua , Cao Min‐Jie
Published: December 2022

Disintegration of intramuscular connective tissue is responsible for postmortem tenderization of fish muscles during chilled storage. Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) was reported to be involved in this process, whereas the mechanism has not been revealed. In the present study, purified type I and V collagens from the connective tissues of sea bass (Lateolabrax japonicus) muscles were first prepared. These two kinds of collagens comprise three polypeptide chains (α), forming a typical triple‐helical domain as determined by circular dichroism. The complete coding region of MMP‐9 containing an open reading frame of 2070 bp encoding 689 amino acid residues was then cloned. The recombinant MMP‐9 catalytic domain (rcMMP‐9) was expressed in Escherichia coli and exhibited high hydrolyzing activity toward gelatin. Besides, rcMMP‐9 was effective in degrading type V collagen rather than type I collagen at 4°C. The enzymatic activity of rcMMP‐9 was highly pH‐dependent, and its enzymatic activity under neutral and basic conditions was higher than that under acidic conditions. Metal ion Ca2+ was necessary for the maintenance of rcMMP‐9 activity, whereas Zn2+ inhibited its activity. Our present study indicated that MMP‐9 is responsible for the disintegration of intramuscular connective tissues by cleaving type V collagen during postmortem tenderization of fish muscle.

Practical Application

Elucidation the involvement of MMP‐9 in collagen degradation will deliver a reference for the prevention of muscular protein decomposition during chilled storage of fish fillets.
Near‐term forecasts of stream temperature using deep learning and data assimilation in support of management decisions
Authors: Zwart Jacob A. , Oliver Samantha K. , Watkins William David , Sadler Jeffrey M. , Appling Alison P. , Corson‐Dosch Hayley R. , Jia Xiaowei , Kumar Vipin , Read Jordan S.
Published: December 2022

Deep learning (DL) models are increasingly used to make accurate hindcasts of management‐relevant variables, but they are less commonly used in forecasting applications. Data assimilation (DA) can be used for forecasts to leverage real‐time observations, where the difference between model predictions and observations today is used to adjust the model to make better predictions tomorrow. In this use case, we developed a process‐guided DL and DA approach to make 7‐day probabilistic forecasts of daily maximum water temperature in the Delaware River Basin in support of water management decisions. Our modeling system produced forecasts of daily maximum water temperature with an average root mean squared error (RMSE) from 1.1 to 1.4°C for 1‐day‐ahead and 1.4 to 1.9°C for 7‐day‐ahead forecasts across all sites. The DA algorithm marginally improved forecast performance when compared with forecasts produced using the process‐guided DL model alone (0%–14% lower RMSE with the DA algorithm). Across all sites and lead times, 65%–82% of observations were within 90% forecast confidence intervals, which allowed managers to anticipate probability of exceedances of ecologically relevant thresholds and aid in decisions about releasing reservoir water downstream. The flexibility of DL models shows promise for forecasting other important environmental variables and aid in decision‐making.
A lidar‐based assessment of riparian shade and large wood potential in the Skagit River watershed, WA
Authors: Hyatt Tim
Published: December 2022

Wild salmon stocks in the Pacific Northwest are imperiled by a variety of declining habitat factors, including riparian shade and in‐channel large wood. In this paper, a relatively simple lidar model of the riparian canopy was used along anadromous streams in the Skagit River watershed in western Washington State, United States, to delineate where riparian trees were most lacking, and where restoration efforts would have the greatest benefit in terms of shade and large wood recruitment potential. Within a 45‐m riparian buffer, 61% of riparian zones were currently incapable of delivering large wood to the stream. Current potential for large wood recruitment is greatest adjacent to stream edges and falls off rapidly with distance from the channel. Approximately 99% of large wood recruitment potential lies within 45 m of the channel edge, and 50% of the wood potential is within 9 m. A hypothetical canopy model in which all trees mature to a 100‐year height would provide 18% more shade distributed over the entire watershed, and 90% more shade in the tributaries. Most of the potential gains in improved shade and large wood contributions are in agricultural areas, as opposed to forestry or urban land uses. The shade and large wood models were constructed from widely available geographic information system tools and are readily transferable to other watersheds with similar characteristics. Model outputs are intended for use in planning restoration projects, as an input to stream temperature models, and to inform policy on restoration priorities and regulatory buffer widths.
An 8‐year, single‐centre experience of primary image‐guided insertion of ‘button’ gastrostomy catheters: Technical and clinical results
Authors: Sheehan Mark , O'Brien Cormac , Killick Desmond , Briody Hayley , Reid Conor , Keeling Aoife , Given Mark , McGrath Andrew , Lee Michael J
Published: December 2022

Introduction

‘Button’ gastrostomy insertion is traditionally a two‐step procedure with an initial longer gastrostomy tube inserted followed by placement of the shorter ‘button’ gastrostomy in 6 weeks when the track is mature. The aim of this study is to assess whether the placement of a Button gastrostomy de novo is a safe and effective method of radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG) insertion.

Methods

Using our Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS) and electronic patient charts we identified all patients who underwent primary ‘button’ gastrostomy over an 8‐year period with at least a 1‐year follow‐up period. We evaluated technical success rate, indications for insertion, major and minor complications, 30‐day mortality and the number of exchanges performed.

Results

Overall, 482 patients underwent a primary button RIG insertion during this period with an overall success rate of 97.1%. Indications for RIG insertion included neurological and neurosurgical disorders 236 (48.9%), head and neck malignancy 182 (37.8%), oesophageal malignancy 27 (5.6%) and other indications in 37 (7.7%). The mean age was 59.55 years (range 18–88 years) with 290 men (60.2%) and 192 women (39.8%). Major complications were recorded in 0.8% and minor complications in 1.7%. A 30‐day mortality of 1% was identified (five patients), mortality was directly related to the RIG insertion in one patient (0.2%). A total of 65 exchanges/replacements took place over this period of time, with 33 (50.1%) due to ‘inadvertent removal’.

Conclusion

Primary button RIG insertion is a procedure that has a high success rate and low morbidity and mortality. We believe it is a safe and effective alternative to deliver enteral nutrition.
Subjective sleep assessment compared to polysomnography in mechanically ventilated critically ill ICU patients
Authors: Oxlund Jakob , Knudsen Torben , Leonthin Helle , Toft Palle , Jennum Poul Jørgen
Published: December 2022

Sleep deprivation is expected in the intensive care unit (ICU) and is associated with delirium and increased mortality. Polysomnography (PSG) is the gold standard for sleep assessment, but practical issues limit the method. Hence, many ICUs worldwide use subjective sleep assessment (SSA) for sleep monitoring, but the agreement between SSA and PSG is unknown. The hypothesis was that the level of agreement between SSA and PSG was low and that total sleep time (TST) assessed with SSA would be overestimated compared to PSG in this existing cohort database. In this sub‐analysis, 30 consecutive study participants underwent 15‐h PSG recordings during two consecutive nights. The attending nurse performed an hourly subjective observer rating of sleep quantity during both nights, and the agreement between SSA and PSG was determined along with mean TST. Primary outcome: The level of agreement between SSA and PSG determined by Bland–Altman analysis. Secondary outcome: (1) The overall mean TST estimated by SSA compared to PSG in all study participants enrolled in the main study during both study nights, (2) TST for all study participants evaluated hourly during both study nights, (3) TST assessed with SSA compared to PSG in study participants sedated with dexmedetomidine during the second night and for study participants treated with placebo or non‐sedation the first and second nights. The level of agreement between SSA and PSG was low. Mean TST estimated by SSA during the time interval 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 a.m. was 481 min (428;534, 95% CI) vs. PSG at 437 min (386;488, 95% CI) (p = .05). When sedated with dexmedetomidine, TST estimated using SSA was 650 min (571;729, 95% CI) versus PSG which was 588 min (531;645, 95% CI) (p = 0.56). For participants treated with placebo or non‐sedation TST estimated with SSA was 397 min (343;450, 95% CI) versus PSG at 362 min (302;422, 95% CI) versus (p = 0.17). In mechanically ventilated critically ill ICU patients, the level of agreement between SSA and PSG was low, and there was a significant overestimation of mean TST. SSA should only be used under awareness that it is imprecise and overestimates TST.
Insecure infrastructures: The affects and effects of violence in Mexico's food system
Authors: Bakić Hayden Tiana
Published: December 2022

This article puts into dialogue anthropological discussions on violence, infrastructures, food systems, and affect to argue for the importance of understanding the role of affective responses in shaping not only subjectivities or experiences of individuals but also the networks, infrastructures, and institutions in which they participate. Set in contemporary Mexico, where concern about criminal violence has become increasingly widespread, the article analyzes ethnographically how different actors in Mexico City's wholesale food market narrate and respond to contexts of violence. It argues that a cluster of affects born out of a sense of insecurity—fear, uncertainty, distrust—come to shape people's everyday (im)mobilities and that these shifting mobilities and arrangements are in fact constitutive of Mexico City's food system. Attention to the affective dimensions of infrastructure entails humanizing the study of material circulation, placing sensations, perceptions, and experiences front and center. This can help to illuminate how infrastructures that appear to be stable and continuous in fact experience internal transformations and rearrangements in new political, economic, and social contexts.
Minimum cost‐compression risk in principal component analysis
Authors: Chattopadhyay Bhargab , Banerjee Swarnali
Published: December 2022

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is a popular multivariate analytic tool which can be used for dimension reduction without losing much information. Data vectors containing a large number of features arriving sequentially may be correlated with each other. An effective algorithm for such situations is online PCA. Existing Online PCA research works revolve around proposing efficient scalable updating algorithms focusing on compression loss only. They do not take into account the size of the dataset at which further arrival of data vectors can be terminated and dimension reduction can be applied. It is well known that the dataset size contributes to reducing the compression loss – the smaller the dataset size, the larger the compression loss while larger the dataset size, the lesser the compression loss. However, the reduction in compression loss by increasing dataset size will increase the total data collection cost. In this paper, we move beyond the scalability and updation problems related to Online PCA and focus on optimising a cost‐compression loss which considers the compression loss and data collection cost. We minimise the corresponding risk using a two‐stage PCA algorithm. The resulting two‐stage algorithm is a fast and an efficient alternative to Online PCA and is shown to exhibit attractive convergence properties with no assumption on specific data distributions. Experimental studies demonstrate similar results and further illustrations are provided using real data. As an extension, a multi‐stage PCA algorithm is discussed as well. Given the time complexity, the two‐stage PCA algorithm is emphasised over the multi‐stage PCA algorithm for online data.
Passionate to be a social entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia: A moderated mediation analysis of social entrepreneurial intention
Authors: Aloulou Wassim J. , Algarni Eidah A. , Ramadani Veland , Hughes Mathew (Mat)
Published: December 2022

This study aims to unravel the determinants of social entrepreneurial intention (SEI). Using a moderated mediation approach, we examine the direct and indirect effects of prior experience with social problems, proactive personality, and social self‐efficacy on SEI via social entrepreneurial passion for founding (SEP) as a mediator. This study is based on data collected from a survey using questionnaires completed by 283 Saudis. To analyze data and test the developed hypotheses, we used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses followed by structural equation modeling to test the direct and indirect effects of the main variables on SEI. Our findings reveal positive relationships between prior experience with social problems and proactive personality and SEP with SEI. Surprisingly, no significant relationship was found between social self‐efficacy and SEI; its effect was indirect through SEP. Finally, gender moderated the relationship between SEP and SEI. Academic contributions and practical implications are then proposed.
A qualitative exploration of parenting representations amongst mothers with young children on the edge of care
Authors: Lenain Catherine , Lever Taylor Billie
Published: December 2022

Mothers who are at risk of losing custody of their children represent a vulnerable population whose voices are seldom heard. Exploring their perspectives of parenting, their child and the relationship with their child—their ‘parenting representations’—can improve our understanding of their struggles and inform interventions. Research in this area so far has been predominantly quantitative, meaning valuable information about subjective experiences is often lost. The present study sought to address this gap by thematically analysing interviews with eight mothers with under‐3‐year‐olds on the edge of Local Authority care, completed at the beginning of a therapeutic intervention. Results are reported around five themes: ‘Idealistic portrayal of the child and the relationship’, ‘Struggling as a parent’, ‘Shadows of the past’, ‘The child and motherhood as comfort’ and ‘Anxiety about loss and fighting for the child’. The parenting struggles of mothers in this population are complex and multi‐faceted, fuelled by unresolved relational trauma, fears of further pain, adversity and difficulties in accessing and trusting support. Successful interventions are likely to require comprehensive, long‐term approaches that holistically address mothers' unmet physical and emotional needs and begin with building relational trust.
Expanding the spectrum of EEF1D neurodevelopmental disorders: Biallelic variants in the guanine exchange domain
Authors: Averdunk Luisa , Al‐Thihli Khalid , Surowy Harald , Lüdecke Hermann‐Josef , Drechsler Matthias , Yigit Gökhan , Smorag Lukasz , Al Hallak Bassam , Li Yun , Altmüller Janine , Guthoff Tanja , Wallot Michael , Nürnberg Peter , Wollnik Bernd , Jamra Rami Abou , Al‐Maawali Almundher , Wieczorek Dagmar
Published: December 2022

Protein translation is an essential cellular process and dysfunctional protein translation causes various neurodevelopmental disorders. The eukaryotic translation elongation factor 1A (eEF1A) delivers aminoacyl‐tRNA to the ribosome, while the eEF1B complex acts as a guanine exchange factor (GEF) of GTP for GDP indirectly catalyzing the release of eEF1A from the ribosome. The gene EEF1D encodes the eEF1Bδ subunit of the eEF1B complex. EEF1D is alternatively spliced giving rise to one long and three short isoforms. Two different homozygous, truncating variants in EEF1D had been associated with severe intellectual disability and microcephaly in two families. The published variants only affect the long isoform of EEF1D that acts as a transcription factor of heat shock element proteins. By exome sequencing, we identified two different homozygous variants in EEF1D in two families with severe developmental delay, severe microcephaly, spasticity, and failure to thrive with optic atrophy, poor feeding, and recurrent aspiration pneumonia. The EEF1D variants reported in this study are localized in the C‐terminal GEF domain, suggesting that a disturbed protein translation machinery might contribute to the neurodevelopmental phenotype. Pathogenic variants localized in both the alternatively spliced domain or the GEF domain of EEF1D cause a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with microcephaly and spasticity.
Three KINSSHIP syndrome patients with mosaic and germline AFF3 variants
Authors: Inoue Yuta , Tsuchida Naomi , Okamoto Nobuhiko , Shuichi Shimakawa , Ohashi Kei , Saitoh Shinji , Ogawa Atsushi , Hamada Keisuke , Sakamoto Masamune , Miyake Noriko , Hamanaka Kohei , Fujita Atsushi , Koshimizu Eriko , Miyatake Satoko , Mizuguchi Takeshi , Ogata Kazuhiro , Uchiyama Yuri , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: December 2022

AFF3 at 2q11.2 encodes the nuclear transcriptional activator AF4/FMR2 Family Member 3. AFF3 constitutes super elongation complex like 3, which plays a role in promoting the expression of genes involved in neurogenesis and development. The degron motif in AFF3 with nine highly conserved amino acids is recognized by E3 ubiquitin ligase to induce protein degradation. Recently, AFF3 missense variants in this region and variants featuring deletion including this region were identified and shown to cause KINSSHIP syndrome. In this study, we identified two novel and one previously reported missense variants in the degron of AFF3 in three unrelated Japanese patients. Notably, two of these three variants exhibited mosaicism in the examined tissues. This study suggests that mosaic variants also cause KINSSHIP syndrome, showing various phenotypes.
Alpha‐Asarone modulates kynurenine disposal in muscle and mediates resilience to stress‐induced depression via PGC‐1α induction
Authors: Yan Lu , Liu Chu‐han , Xu Li , Qian Yi‐yun , Song Ping‐ping , Wei Min , Liu Bao‐lin
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Kynurenine (KYN) accumulation in periphery induces brain injury, responsible for depression. α‐Asarone is a simple phenylpropanoids that exerts beneficial effects on central nervous system. However, the effect of α‐asarone on periphery is unexplored.

Aims

Here, we investigated its protective role against depression from the aspect of KYN metabolism in skeletal muscle.

Methods

The antidepressant effects of α‐asarone were evaluated in chronic mild stress (CMS) and muscle‐specific PGC‐1α‐deficient mice. The effects of KYN metabolism were determined in mice and C2C12 myoblasts.

Results

α‐Asarone exerted antidepressant effects in CMS and KYN‐challenged mice via modulating KYN metabolism. In myoblasts, α‐asarone regulated PGC‐1α induction via cAMP/CREB signaling and upregulated KYN aminotransferases (KATs) to increase KYN clearance in a manner dependent on PGC‐1α. KAT function is coupled with malate–aspartate shuttle (MAS), while α‐asarone combated oxidative stress to protect MAS and mitochondrial integrity by raising the NAD+/NADH ratio, ensuring effective KYN disposal. In support, the antidepressant effect of α‐asarone was diminished by muscle‐specific PGC‐1α deficient mice subjected to KYN challenge.

Conclusion

KATs coupled with MAS to clear KYN in muscle. α‐Asarone increased PGC‐1α induction and promoted KYN disposal in muscle, suggesting that protection of mitochondria is a way for pharmacological intervention to depression.
1041. SORBUS CUNEIFOLIA: Rosaceae
Authors: Rich Tim C. G. , King Christabel , Fay Michael F.
Published: December 2022

Sorbus cuneifolia, LLANGOLLEN WHITEBEAM, is described and illustrated. Details relating to its recognition as a distinct species are provided.
1050. SORBUS TORMINALIS: Rosaceae
Authors: Rich Tim C. G. , King Christabel , Brown Andrew P. , Fay Michael F.
Published: December 2022

Sorbus torminalis (WILD SERVICE TREE) is described and illustrated. It is a species relatively isolated from its relatives, but its role as a parental taxon of hybridogenic species is noted. Notes on usage, cultivation and propagation are included.
A biallelic variant in POLR2C is associated with congenital hearing loss and male infertility: Case report
Authors: Bitarafan Fatemeh , Razmara Ehsan , Jafarinia Ehsan , Almadani Navid , Garshasbi Masoud
Published: December 2022

Background

DNA‐directed RNA polymerase II subunit 3 (RPB3) is the third largest subunit of RNA polymerase II and is encoded by the POLR2C (OMIM:180663). A large Iranian family with congenital hearing loss and infertility is described here with genetic and clinical characterizations of five male patients.

Methods

After doing clinical examinations, the proband was subjected to karyotyping and GJB2/6 sequencing to rule out the most evident chromosomal and gene abnormalities for male infertility and hearing loss, respectively. A custom‐designed next‐generation sequencing panel was also used to detect mutations in deafness‐related genes. Finally, to reveal the underlying molecular cause(s) justifying hearing loss and male infertility, five male patients and 2 healthy male controls within the family were subjected to paired‐end whole‐exome sequencing (WES). Linkage analysis was also performed based on the data.

Results

All male patients showed prelingual sensorineural hearing loss and also decreased sperm motility. Linkage analysis determined 16q21 as the most susceptible locus in which a missense variant in exon 7 of POLR2C—NM_032940.3:c.545T>C;p.(Val182Ala)—was identified as a ‘likely pathogenic’ variant co‐segregated with phenotypes.

Conclusions

Using segregation and in silico analyses, for the first time, we suggested that the NM_032940.3:c.545T>C; p.(Val182Ala) in POLR2C is associated with hearing loss and male infertility.
Host expansion in a specialist herbivore is facilitated by whole‐genome duplication in the host plant
Authors: Curé Anne E. , Althoff David M. , Segraves Kari A.
Published: December 2022

Host plant shifts are central to diversification in insect herbivores. Many mechanisms can cause host shifts in insects, but one relatively unexplored mechanism is whole‐genome duplication (WGD) in the host plant. WGD, or polyploidy, is common in plants and causes spontaneous changes in physiology, morphology, and palatability that could impact the ability of herbivores to feed and develop on newly formed polyploids (neopolyploids).

Here the authors tested if WGD affected the preference and performance of the specialist aphid,Acyrthosiphon pisum(pea aphids). Pea aphids seasonally form specialised lineages or ‘host forms’ on many host plant species including alfalfa and red clover. Aphid host forms on alfalfa and red clover naturally exist on different cytotypes of their respective hosts, with red clover aphids feeding on diploid clover and alfalfa aphids feeding on tetraploid alfalfa. Therefore, the authors predicted that these host forms would have a higher preference for and performance on their respective natal host cytotype.

Neither host form exhibited a preference for a particular cytotype, but there were modest changes in aphid performance based on host cytotype. Specifically, aphids specialised to red clover had higher fecundity on diploid red clover than on neotetraploid red clover. Together, these results showed that both host forms were able to recognise and accept different cytotypes of the two host species, but only one host form experienced trade‐offs in performance when feeding on neotetraploids. These results suggest that WGD may act as a mechanism of host expansion in pea aphids as plants speciate via WGD.
Molecular mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease: From therapeutic targets to promising drugs
Authors: Alan Elif , Kerry Zeliha , Sevin Gulnur
Published: December 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive impairment so widespread that it interferes with a person's ability to complete daily activities. AD is becoming increasingly common, and it is estimated that the number of patients will reach 152 million by 2050. Current treatment options for AD are symptomatic and have modest benefits. Therefore, considering the human, social, and economic burden of the disease, the development of drugs with the potential to alter disease progression has become a global priority. In this review, the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathology of AD were evaluated as therapeutic targets. The main aim of the review is to focus on new knowledge about mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuronal transmission in AD, as well as a range of cellular signaling mechanisms and associated treatments. Important molecular interactions leading to AD were described in amyloid cascade and in tau protein function, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, cholinergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission, cAMP‐regulatory element‐binding protein (CREB), the silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (SIRT‐1), neuroinflammation (glial cells), and synaptic alterations. This review summarizes recent experimental and clinical research in AD pathology and analyzes the potential of therapeutic applications based on molecular disease mechanisms.
HIV treatment cascade in regions of Peru with the highest HIV prevalence
Authors: Reyes Nora , Benites Carlos , García‐Fernández Lisset , Calderon Maria , Fiestas Fabián , Vasquez‐Becerra Ruben , Aranda Eva , Yabar Carlos A. , García Angélica , Ramal Cesar , Gutiérrez Ericson L.
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To describe the HIV treatment cascade and care continuum in regions of highest HIV prevalence in Peru.

Methods

An observational longitudinal study was carried out in 14 tertiary hospitals in Peru. These are the main hospitals that administer antiretroviral treatment (ART) in the regions that represent approximately 95% of reports of HIV/AIDS cases in Peru in 2013. We included individuals older than 18 years newly diagnosed with HIV from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2012. Medical records were reviewed until 2015.

Results

A total of 2119 people living with HIV (PLHIV) were identified in the selected health facilities (mean age = 35.26 years, 78% male). 97.25% [1845/1897; 95% confidence interval (CI): 96.4–97.9%] of the patients attended the consultation at least once during the follow‐up, but only 64.84% (885/1365; 95% CI: 62.2–67.4%) attended within a month after the diagnosis. After starting ART, 74.63% (95% CI: 71.9–77.2%) of PLHIV remained in healthcare. Regardless of the time after diagnosis, 88.40% (1837/2078; 95% CI: 86.9–89.7%) of PLHIV started ART during the observation time. However, 78.68% (95% CI: 76.8–80.4%) did so during the first post‐treatment year and only 28.88% (95% CI: 27.9–31.9%) after 1 month. After starting treatment, it was observed that 51.60% (95% CI: 49.2–54%) of PLHIV reached viral suppression during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

Further analysis and improvements in the definition of indicators are required to achieve conclusive results; however, these data will give us a general understanding of the progress of Peruvian health policies in achieving the goal established by the WHO.
The evaluation of gene mutation profiles by next‐generation sequencing in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Özçalımlı Azime , Erdoğdu İbrahim Halil , Turgutkaya Atakan , Yavaşoğlu İrfan , Döger Füruzan Kaçar , Bolaman Ali Zahit
Published: December 2022

Objective

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. Although it is a clinically and biologically heterogeneous disease, it is usually treated with R‐CHOP chemotherapy. Here, we aimed to investigate gene expression frequency with next‐generation sequencing (NGS) and the relation of gene mutations with remission and relapse status in patients with DLBCLs.

Materials and Methods

We investigated gene mutation profiles by NGS in patients with DLBCL‐NOS and analyzed the correlation between gene mutations and response and relapse rates and other clinical indices.

Results

Twenty‐eight of forty patients were evaluated. The most commonly mutated genes were ANKRD, BRCA1, BRCA2, EZH2, KMTC2, MYC, MYD88, NF1, NOTCH1, PMS2, PTEN, and WRN. The relapse rate was found higher in DLBCL patients with ANKRD26, BRCA2, MYD88, and NOTCH1 mutations. Also, remission duration was found shorter in patients with ANKRD26, BRCA2, and MYD88 mutations.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the presence of some genetic mutations is effective on prognosis in patients with DLBCL. NGS‐based evaluation of DLBCL treatment can be used in the future.
Efficacy and patient satisfaction of low‐intensity shockwave treatment for erectile dysfunction in a retrospective real‐world study in Japan
Authors: Kurosawa Makoto , Tsujimura Akira , Morino Junki , Anno Yuta , Yoshiyama Azusa , Kure Akimasa , Uesaka Yuka , Nozaki Taiji , Shirai Masato , Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Horie Shigeo
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To clarify the efficacy of low‐intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy for patients with erectile dysfunction, compare the efficacy between two types of lithotripters (ED1000 [focused type] and Renova [linear type]), and detect factors indicative of therapeutic gain with the treatment.

Methods

This retrospective study included 76 patients (52.8 ± 11.7 years) treated by ED1000 (12 times over 9 weeks) and 484 patients (52.5 ± 11.6 years) treated by Renova (4 times over 4 weeks). Age, sexual symptoms scores, and blood examinations were assessed. Efficacy was judged by improvement of the scores and patient satisfaction and compared between patients at 1 month after treatment with the lithotripters. Independent factors influencing efficacy by Renova were also assessed.

Results

Sexual symptom scores were improved significantly by both lithotripters, although the changes in the scores did not differ significantly between them. Efficacy rate as judged by patient satisfaction was 65.8% with the ED1000 and 71.1% with Renova, also without significant difference. Among several factors including age, sexual symptoms scores, endocrinological factors, metabolic factors, and the rate of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use, only age was found to be an independent factor influencing the efficacy of Renova.

Conclusion

We clearly showed the high efficacy of both lithotripters. Although the efficacy rate did not differ between them, we speculated that the fewer treatment sessions needed with the Renova versus the ED1000 would be a great advantage for patients. We also suggest that Renova should be recommended for patients younger than 70 years of age.
Within‐patient randomised clinical trial exploring the development of microskin implantation in the treatment of pressure ulcers
Authors: Zhang Ming , Sun Jiachen , Zhu Minhui , Sun Tianjun , Shi Zhiyuan , Zhang Lu , Wang Xingtong , Song Yaoyao , Ye Xiangbo , Deng Yuanxin , Chu Wanli , Shen Chuanan
Published: December 2022

Pressure injury often seriously affects the life quality of aged patients, especially the long‐term bedridden casualties. Widely adopted by different disciplines, negative pressure suction has its role in pressure injury. Microskin implantation has been demonstrated powerful in increasing the expansion ratio of donor area‐derived skin and accelerating wound healing by forming “skin islands”. The study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of additional use of bedside microskin implantation in the palliative care of pressure injury of aged patients who cannot tolerate surgical treatment as a supplement for standard negative pressure suction. An open‐label within‐patient RCT was conducted in aged patients with pressure injury. Sixteen patients were enrolled. After granulation tissues formed, half of a pressure injury was randomised to receive the negative pressure suction as the control group, and the other half exposed to additional bedside microskin implantation as the experimental group. Efficacy was evaluated within 1 month after treatment, and the primary endpoints included the wound healing rate and pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH) scores. The secondary outcomes included survival rate of implanted microskin, pain intensity assessment, satisfaction surveys from patients or their family, and pressure ulcer healing complications. Sixteen patients completed the study. After 14 days of operation, 5.63 ± 1.78 out of 10 pieces of implanted microskin survived and formed neonatal epithelium. The wound healing rates of the control group and the experimental group at 1 month were (26.17 ± 9.03%) and (35.95 ± 16.02%), respectively (P < .01). The mean PUSH score before the surgery was 12.38 ± 2.23. At 1 month after surgery, the mean difference of PUSH score from baseline was 2.13 ± 0.96 in the control group and 2.81 ± 0.83 in the experimental group (P < .01). The treatment of microskin implantation did not cause additional pain or complications to the patients. Accompanied by a better ulcer status, the majority of patients or their guardians have a high degree of acceptance towards the microskin implantation. Bedside microskin implantation could accelerate wound healing with lower PUSH scores. As a complementary palliative treatment, supplementary microskin implantation is effective and well tolerated.
Divergence of a speciation trait through artificial selection: Insights into constraints, by‐product effects and sexual isolation
Authors: Yukilevich Roman , LaGraff James Thai
Published: December 2022

Speciation and sexual isolation often occur when divergent female mating preferences target male secondary sexual traits. Despite the importance of such male signals, little is known about their evolvability and genetic linkage to other traits during speciation. To answer these questions, we imposed divergent artificial selection for 10 non‐overlapping generations on the Inter‐Pulse‐Interval (IPI) of male courtship songs; which has been previously shown to be a major species recognition trait for females in theDrosophila athabascaspecies complex. Focusing on one of the species,Drosophila mahican(previously known as EA race), we examined IPI's: (1) rate of divergence, (2) response to selection in different directions, (3) genetic architecture of divergence and (4) by‐product effects on other traits that have diverged in the species complex. We found rapid and consistent response for higher IPI but less response to lower IPI; implying asymmetrical constraints. Genetic divergence in IPI differed from natural species in X versus autosome contribution and in dominance, suggesting that evolution may take different paths. Finally, selection on IPI did not alter other components of male songs, or other ecological traits, and did not cause divergence in female preferences, as evidenced by lack of sexual isolation. This suggests that divergence of male courtship song IPI is unconstrained by genetic linkage with other traits in this system. This lack of linkage between male signals and other traits implies that female preferences or ecological selection can co‐opt and mould specific male signals for species recognition free of genetic constraints from other traits.
Optimization of continuous flow pulsed light system process parameters for microbial inactivation in tender coconut water, pineapple and orange juice
Authors: Preetha P. , Varadharaju N. , Jeevarathinam G. , Deepa J. , Kumar A. P. Mohan , Balakrishnan M. , Rajkumar P. , Pandiselvam R.
Published: December 2022

Continuous flow pulsed light (PL) system was designed and fabricated with a residence time of 3.5 s at a flow rate of 100 ml/min to study the effect on microbial quality of the fruit juice. The circuit was designed to deliver pulse energy between 12.6 and 756 J/cm2 with a flash lasted 360 μs at a frequency of three pulses per second. Tender coconut water, pineapple and orange juice was treated with different input voltage (500–1000 V) to the lamp, distance of the lamp exposed to the sample (5–15 cm) and treatment time (15–45 s) to reduce the population of aerobic plate count (APC), yeast and mold. Box–Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the PL process parameters. The process condition was optimized based on the microbial reduction rate. The optimized condition was input voltage of 1492, 1499, and 1486 V, distance of 7.6, 10.2, and 5.3 cm, and treatment time of 43 s (12 passes), 44 s (13 passes), and 45 s (13 passes) for tender coconut water, pineapple and orange juice, respectively at the target of five log reduction for APC and four log reduction for Y&M. These results recommend that a continuous flow PL system could improve the microbial safety of the fruit juice. PL is a nonthermal method for inactivating food microbes, extending food's shelf life. For industrial purposes, the batch system is virtually impossible. As a result, continuous flow systems for liquid foods can provide a better way to handle large volumes. The optimized setup was found to achieve a microbial death rate of at least 5 log CFU/ml, consistent with FDA guidelines for fruit juice. The BBD of response surface methodology helps in optimizing the process parameters such as input voltage of the lamp, distance of the PL lamp to treatment tube and treatment time. The resulting mathematical model provides the PL process conditions for designing the equipment for different fruit beverages to obtain microbiologically safe products.
Calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres activate fibroblasts through direct contact to stimulate neocollagenesis
Authors: Nowag Bartosch , Casabona Gabriela , Kippenberger Stefan , Zöller Nadja , Hengl Thomas
Published: December 2022

Background

Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA; Radiesse, Merz North America) restores volume and stimulates collagen production. The aim of this research was to explore the role of dilution and diffusion in microsphere distribution and the effect of CaHA concentration on activation of fibroblasts to produce collagen.

Methods

Ex vivo: Tissue dispersion of CaHA was assessed in abdominal tissue segments obtained from patients which were subsequently injected with CaHA diluted to 1:1 and hyperdiluted to 1:2. In vitro: Collagen type III (COLIII) and type I (COLI) expression of fibroblasts was evaluated after 24 and 72 h of incubation with CaHA concentrations of 1.5 (high dilution), 3.0, and 4.5 mg/ml (low dilution).

Results

Ex vivo: The 1:2 CaHA hyperdilution increased dispersion and decreased concentration of CaHA microspheres compared with the 1:1 dilution. In vitro: CaHA incubation resulted in an increased mean COLIII expression of 123% at 24 h. COLI synthesis did not change after 24 h but increased up to 124% at 72 h. Only fibroblasts in direct contact with CaHA increased COLIII expression. COLIII high‐expressing cells were fully activated by CaHA and resulted in the same level of COLIII expression per cell independent of the CaHA dilution.

Conclusions

A 1:2 hyperdilution of CaHA increased tissue dispersion of CaHA microspheres. Direct contact of CaHA with fibroblasts was a key factor for inducing neocollagenesis. COLIII high‐expressing cells were fully activated by CaHA and resulted in the same expression level of COLIII per cell independent of the CaHA amount in each dilution. This indicates that increased collagen expression was due to the activation of more fibroblasts.
Pyramidal multiple‐theory (multi‐type, multi‐method and multi‐layer) for facial fat grafting
Authors: Hu Hao , Shi Yingshen , Qian Yuxin , Yu Xiaoyan , Liu Antang , Li Facheng , Jiang Hua , Wang Hui
Published: December 2022

Background

Age‐related changes to the face pertinent anatomy and important aspects of autologous fat grafting have been widely applied in facial rejuvenation. Various types of autologous fat products (Macrofat, Microfat, SEFF, nanofat, and SVF‐gel) with different properties and applicabilities have been introduced and available for surgeons.

Methods

Key differences between common techniques for fat processing and infiltration. Develop a plan for patients based on site‐specific facial anatomical zones, we suggested a pyramidal multiple‐theory (multi‐type, multi‐method and multi‐layer) for facial fat grafting. Based on the complicated mechanism of the face decrepitude in different layers of facial soft tissue, autologous fat products with various particle sizes and components into different layers.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients underwent this facial fat grafting strategy from June 2020 to Jan 2022. All achieved cosmetic improvements, with higher patients' satisfaction, and minor complications. Our facial fat grafting strategy takes advantage of different fat products and is able to address the physiological tissue changes during aging, more properly and targetedly, than the traditional facial fat grafting.

Conclusions

Fat grafting to the face aids in volume restoration and rejuvenation, thereby addressing soft‐tissue atrophy associated with the aging face, acquired conditions, or congenital malformations. The technique described as “lipo‐tumescence” has been successfully used in the breast and other regions of the body that have radiation damage and is discussed in this article specifically for the face and neck.
Contour first—retrospective study of an algorithmic approach of auricular keloids
Authors: Wu Huanhuan , Dong Guoxuan , Hu Jintian , Wang Meng , Liu Yue , Qu Chunan , Jin Qian , Wang Lianzhao
Published: December 2022

Background

Auricular keloids are difficult to treat, and recurrent keloids are more aggressive and more likely to develop aural deformities. Surgical excision, injections, or radiotherapy alone have high recurrence rates. An algorithmic approach of auricular keloid remains to be explored.

Aims

To investigate the sequential treatment protocol for the treatment of auricle keloids to maintain auricle morphology and reduce the postoperative recurrence rate.

Patients/Methods

A retrospective analysis of 42 patients who attended the scar minimally invasive treatment center of the Hospital of Plastic Surgery, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences for serial treatment from January 2019 to June 2021. According to the size and involvement of the keloid, the core excision of the scar was excised under the condition of ensuring the priority of the auricular contour, and the scar flap was repaired to reconstruct the auricular appearance, and electron beam treatment was performed within 24 h after the operation, ray energy: 6–7 MeV, dose: Dt18Gy/2f; regular trimethoprim combined with 5‐Fu injection treatment and the application of silicone ear clips for local compression treatment were performed 1 month after the operation.

Results

Thirty‐five patients were followed up from 12 to 40 months after surgery, and three of them showed a tendency of recurrence, and early local treatment with trimethoprim and 5‐Fu injection achieved favorable results.

Conclusion

A standardized and sequential treatment plan for keloids with different morphology and anatomical locations can achieve remodeling of the auricular morphology and maintain long‐term results.
Blue light‐emitting diodes for the treatment of localized vitiligo: A retrospective study
Authors: Lodi Giuseppe , Del Re Chiara , Nisticò Steven Paul , Bennardo Luigi , Cannarozzo Giovanni , Sannino Mario
Published: December 2022

Background

Vitiligo is an autoimmune dermatological disease characterized by hypopigmented macules.

Treatments include topical agents, phototherapy, and laser therapies. Different lasers should be individually chosen regarding location, extent, activity of the disease.

Aims

This article aims to demonstrate how blue LED is effective and safe, as its wavelength is very close to the UV spectrum (415 nm vs. 400 nm), but, unlike UV therapy, blue LED have not shown any long‐term cancerogenic side effects.

Patients/Methods

We treated 30 patients affected by vitiligo localized on different anatomical areas with blue light‐emitting diodes.

Results

Complete repigmentation occurred in 75.33% of treated patients (22 out of 30 patients, 14 males, and 8 females). Partial repigmentation occurred in the remaining patients.

Conclusions

Blue LED light may be a safe and well‐tolerated way to induce repigmentation in patients affected by vitiligo.