bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The HtrA3 protease promotes drug‐induced death of lung cancer cells by cleavage of the X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP)
Authors: Wenta Tomasz , Rychlowski Michal , Jurewicz Ewelina , Jarzab Miroslaw , Zurawa‐Janicka Dorota , Filipek Anna , Lipinska Barbara
Published: July 2019

HtrA3 is a proapoptotic protease shown to promote drug‐induced cytotoxicity in lung cancer cells and proposed to have an antitumor effect. However, at the molecular level, the role of HtrA3 in cell death induction is poorly understood. There are two HtrA3 isoforms, a long and a short one, termed HtrA3L and HtrA3S. By performing pull down assays, co‐immunoprecipitation and ELISA, we showed that HtrA3 formed complexes with the X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP). The recombinant HtrA3 variants ΔN‐HtrA3L and ‐S, lacking the N‐terminal regions that are not essential for protease activity, cleaved XIAP with a comparable efficiency, though ΔN‐HtrA3S was more active in the presence of cellular extract, suggesting the existence of an activating factor. Immunofluorescence and proximity ligation assays indicated that HtrA3 partially co‐localized with XIAP. Exogenous ΔN‐HtrA3L/S promoted apoptotic death of lung cancer cells treated with etoposide and caused a significant decrease of cellular XIAP levels, in a way dependent on HtrA3 proteolytic activity. These results collectively indicate that both HtrA3 isoforms stimulate drug‐induced apoptotic death of lung cancer cells via XIAP cleavage and thus help to understand the molecular mechanism of HtrA3 function in apoptosis and in cancer cell death caused by chemotherapy.
Determining long‐term changes in a skate assemblage with aggregated landings and limited species data
Authors: Marandel Florianne , Lorance Pascal , Trenkel Verena M.
Published: July 2019

Sustainable fisheries management requires assessment of exploited populations and communities. Traditional fisheries stock assessment methods need species‐specific input data, which for skates have only recently become available in Europe. To overcome this limitation, a Bayesian multispecies biomass production model was developed. In addition to aggregated landings, input data are short time series with species‐specific information (landings and biomass indices). Applying the approach to four main skate species and a group of two skate species, all managed together in the Bay of Biscay (Northeast Atlantic), long‐term changes in the skate assemblage composition were identified. Since the 1990s, Leucoraja naevus became increasingly dominant, while the contributions of the other three species (Raja brachyura, Raja clavata and Raja montagui) declined. The abundance of the grouped Leucoraja fullonica and L. circularis has also strongly decreased, suggesting long‐term overexploitation. All species except this species group are expected to increase over the next decade under current harvest rates. Currently, the species considered here are managed under a single fishing quota making it unlikely that the group of the two most depleted species will recover soon. The multispecies modelling approach bears promise for other harvested assemblages for which only grouped harvest information is available for certain periods.
Project level assessment of indirect land use changes arising from biofuel production
Authors: Di Lucia Lorenzo , Sevigné‐Itoiz Eva , Peterson Steve , Bauen Ausilio , Slade Raphael
Published: July 2019

The use of land resources has a strong influence on the sustainability of biofuel production. An assessment of both direct and indirect changes in land use is necessary if an accurate assessment of sustainability is to be made. An increasing number of studies have developed approaches to estimate the Indirect Land Use Change (ILUC) impacts of biofuels at global, national or regional level, but assessing ILUC remains a challenging task and estimates vary widely. In this study, we suggest that a socially motivated, project level approach can provide robust insight into the conditions affecting land use change dynamics. We developed a causal‐descriptive approach named ILUC Project ASsessment Tool (ILUC PAST) for project level assessment of ILUC. It uses a tiered multitool analysis—from local to global—combined with extensive stakeholder engagement. A real‐world project for the production of cellulosic ethanol in Sardinia (Italy) was used to evaluate the tool and benchmark the results against two alternatives for project level assessment: the ‘Low Indirect Impact Biofuel’ methodology and the ‘iLUC Club’ method. The results of the case study of advanced biofuels suggest that the quantitative estimates of ILUC combined with the in‐depth understanding of the cause‐and‐effect dynamics provided by ILUC PAST are sufficiently credible, salient and legitimate to support project level and local decision‐making.
Low hemoglobin A1c and low body mass index are associated with dementia and activities of daily living disability among Japanese nursing home residents with diabetes
Authors: Hatano Yu , Araki Atsushi , Matsumoto Masatoshi , Ishibashi Shun
Published: July 2019

Aim

To investigate associations between glycemic control and dementia, activities of daily living (ADL), falls and fractures in Japanese older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus living in nursing homes.

Methods

A total of 384 older residents with diabetes aged ≥65 years from 95 out of 132 facilities in Hiroshima Prefecture were studied in a cross‐sectional study in 2016. Primary outcomes were differences in severity of dementia and ADL among three glycosylated hemoglobin level groups. Secondary end‐points included differences in falls, fragility fracture and severe hypoglycemia.

Results

Approximately 67.6% of patients receiving any diabetes treatment received dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors, and 26.0% received sulfonylureas. Patients with glycosylated hemoglobin <7.0% had a significantly higher severity of dementia compared with those with glycosylated hemoglobin 7.0–7.9% (beta ± SE, 0.55 ± 0.26; 95% CI 0.04–1.06) in multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis. This tendency was observed particularly in patients using insulin (1.91 ± 0.91; 95% CI 0.13–3.69) or both sulfonylureas and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (2.14 ± 0.88; 95% CI 0.41–3.87). Low body mass index was significantly associated with dementia (−0.08 ± 0.03; 95% CI −0.14 – −0.03) and ADL impairment (−0.15 ± 0.03; 95% CI −0.20 – −0.09), and fractures (odds ratio OR 0.89 per kg/m2; 95% CI 0.84–0.96).

Conclusions

Tight glycemic control was related to dementia in residents treated with insulin and sulfonylureas, and low body mass index was associated with dementia, ADL disability and fractures. Optimization of glycemic control and weight for people with diabetes in long‐term care facilities could be important for the maintenance of cognitive and physical function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 854–860.
Entecavir treatment of hepatitis B virus‐infected patients with severe renal impairment and those on hemodialysis
Authors: Suzuki Kazuharu , Suda Goki , Yamamoto Yoshiya , Furuya Ken , Baba Masaru , Kimura Megumi , Maehara Osamu , Shimazaki Tomoe , Yamamoto Koji , Shigesawa Taku , Nakamura Akihisa , Ohara Masatsugu , Kawagishi Naoki , Nakai Masato , Sho Takuya , Natsuizaka Mitsuteru , Morikawa Kenichi , Ogawa Koji , Sakamoto Naoya ,   for the NORTE Study Group
Published: July 2019

Aim

Entecavir (ETV), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) are first‐line nucleos(t)ide analogues for hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐infected patients. However, consecutive TDF treatment causes renal dysfunction, and the safety and efficacy of TAF have not been established in severe renal dysfunction patients, including hemodialysis patients. The efficacy and safety of ETV in these populations has not been clarified. The study aimed to clarify this.

Methods

In this retrospective multicenter study, between 2006 and 2018, a total of 567 HBV‐infected patients treated with ETV monotherapy were screened. Patients were included if >20 years old, treated with ETV monotherapy for >1 year, and had proper clinical information. The efficacy of ETV and changes in renal function were evaluated according to renal function.

Results

A total of 273 patients were included: 9.2% (25/273), 1.8% (5/273), and 3.7% (10/273) had chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage G3, CKD stage G4/5, and were on hemodialysis, respectively. Overall, 84.2%, 94.0%, and 96.2% of patients experienced serum HBV‐DNA disappearance at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively, after treatment initiation. In patients with CKD stage G3–5, estimated glomerular filtration rate tended to restore with time, which was in contrast to patients without renal dysfunction. The rate of disappearance in serum HBV‐DNA, alanine transaminase normalization, and virological breakthrough was similar between patients with or without renal dysfunction. ETV showed high efficacy for all 10 hemodialysis patients without virological breakthrough.

Conclusions

Entecavir for HBV‐infected patients with severe renal dysfunction, including hemodialysis patients, is highly effective and does not affect renal function.
Comprehensive genetic analysis of cholangiolocellular carcinoma with a coexistent hepatocellular carcinoma‐like area and metachronous hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kawai‐Kitahata Fukiko , Asahina Yasuhiro , Kaneko Shun , Tsuchiya Jun , Sato Ayako , Miyoshi Masato , Tsunoda Tomoyuki , Inoue‐Shinomiya Emi , Murakawa Miyako , Nitta Sayuri , Itsui Yasuhiro , Nakagawa Mina , Azuma Seishin , Kakinuma Sei , Tanabe Minoru , Sugawara Emiko , Takemoto Akira , Ojima Hidenori , Sakamoto Michiie , Muraoka Masaru , Takano Shinichi , Maekawa Shinya , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: July 2019

Aim

The genetic profile of cholangiolocellular carcinoma (CLC) and its origin in relation to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. To elucidate the genetic profile of CLC, a comprehensive analysis of genetic mutations was carried out in a case of CLC with an HCC‐like focal area and metachronous HCC.

Method

Liver tissue was obtained from CLC, a co‐existent HCC‐like area, and metachronously developed HCC by laser capture microdissection of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded specimens obtained by hepatectomy. Gene mutational profiles were analyzed comprehensively by next‐generation sequencing and digital PCR. Relationships among gene profiles, immunohistochemistry, and clinicopathological findings were investigated.

Results

Mutations in EGFR, PTEN, RB1, TP53, and ERBB2 were found in CLC, whereas mutations in KIT, BRAF, PTEN, TP53, and SMAD4 were found in the coexistent HCC‐like area. Only the mutation in PTEN has a common Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer ID in the CLC and coexistent HCC‐like area, and is related to the kinase‐RAS module. In contrast, no cancer‐related mutations were found in the metachronous HCC. No TERT mutations were found in any of the regions by digital PCR. Immunohistochemical staining for p53 was negative in CLC, although ≤10% positive in the coexistent HCC‐like area. Immunostaining of C‐kit, HER2, PTEN, and SMAD4 were negative.

Conclusion

The genomic features of CLC and the focal area of an HCC‐like region differ, but are related to the kinase‐RAS module. The development of carcinogenesis in the CLC and HCC‐like areas in this case might differ, following a common PTEN mutation, although alteration of the kinase‐RAS module is the most common molecular event in CLC.
Lipopolysaccharide‐induced DNA damage response activates nuclear factor κB signalling pathway via GATA4 in dental pulp cells
Authors: Qiao W. , Huang Y. , Bian Z. , Sun X. , Wang X. , Gao Q. , Peng Y. , Meng L.
Published: July 2019

Aim

To investigate the role of GATA‐binding protein 4 (GATA4) in the inflammatory response induced by DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs) in human dental pulp cells (hDPCs).

Methodology

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used for stimulating inflammation in dental pulp tissue in vivo and hDPCs in vitro. Expression levels of GATA4 and γ‐H2A.X (a marker for DSBs) were detected at different stages of pulpitis in a rat model and human pulp tissues by immunohistochemistry. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were performed to assess expression of GATA4 and γ‐H2A.X and the activation of nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) in hDPCs stimulated by LPS. The comet assay was used for detecting the extent of DSBs in hDPCs. Immunocytochemistry and Western blot were utilized to evaluate expression of γ‐H2A.X and GATA4 and activation of NF‐κB in hDPCs pre‐treated with inhibitors of DNA damage response or transfected with GATA4 small interfering RNA before the treatment of LPS. Data were analysed statistically using one‐way anova or Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

The expression of GATA4 and activation of DNA damage response and NF‐κB in inflamed pulp tissue and LPS‐treated hDPCs were identified. Significantly decreased expression of GATA4 and significantly decreased inflammatory processes in hDPCs were demonstrated via suppression of DNA damage response (P < 0.05). In GATA4‐knockdown cells, the expression of γ‐H2A.X did not change, but nuclear translocation of p65 was significantly suppressed (P < 0.05) upon induction by LPS.

Conclusions

Lipopolysaccharide‐induced DSBs activated the NF‐κB signalling pathway in hDPCs, and GATA4 acts as a positive moderator of the progress. The involvement of GATA4 in this pathology may serve as a therapeutic target in pulpitis.
Comparison of perioperative outcomes of robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy without renorrhaphy: Comparative outcomes of cT1a versus cT1b renal tumors
Authors: Tohi Yoichiro , Murata Shiori , Makita Noriyuki , Suzuki Issei , Kubota Masashi , Sugino Yoshio , Inoue Koji , Kawakita Mutsushi
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To assess the perioperative outcomes of robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy without renorrhaphy for cT1b renal tumors compared with cT1a.

Methods

From February 2015 to May 2018, 100 robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy patients who underwent robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy without renorrhaphy for renal tumors were included. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records, and compared the perioperative outcomes of 66 and 34 patients for cT1a and cT1b tumors, respectively. Inner suture was carried out in the opened collecting system or renal sinus, whereas parenchymal renorrhaphy was not. For hemostasis, the soft‐coagulation system was used, and absorbable hemostats were placed on the resection bed.

Results

The median tumor size and RENAL nephrometry score were significantly different between the two groups (cT1a vs cT1b: 23.5 vs 45 mm, P < 0.001, 6 vs 8, P < 0.001). The median operating time and warm ischemic time were significantly longer in the cT1b group than in the cT1a group (154 vs 184 min, P < 0.001; 14 vs 21 min, P < 0.001). The median blood loss was not significantly different (2.5 vs 50 mL, P = 0.109). The positive surgical margin rate was 4.5% versus 11.7% (P = 0.22). Postoperative complications classified as Clavien–Dindo grade III or higher were port‐site herniation (one patient), acute cholecystitis (one patient) and pseudoaneurysm (one patient) in the cT1b group. Urinary leakage was not observed in the two groups.

Conclusions

Robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy without renorrhaphy using the soft‐coagulation system and absorbable hemostats appears to be feasible for renal or cT1b tumors. However, longer warm ischemic time and a high rate of complications can be expected compared with cT1a tumors.
Clinical efficacy of open‐irrigated electrode cooled with half‐normal saline for initially failed radiofrequency ablation of idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Chung Fa‐Po , Vicera Jennifer Jeanne B. , Lin Yenn‐Jiang , Chang Shih‐Lin , Lo Li‐Wei , Hu Yu‐Feng , Lin Chin‐Yu , Tuan Ta‐Chuan , Chao Tze‐Fan , Liao Jo‐Nan , Chang Ting‐Yung , Salim Simon , Liu Chih‐Min , Chuang Chieh‐Mao , Chen Chun‐Chao , Chin Chye Gen , Wu Cheng‐I , Chou Ching‐Yao , Chen Shih‐Ann
Published: July 2019

Background

Acute failure of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) occur in 10%‐20% of patients and is partly attributed to inadequate lesion depth acquired with standard ablation protocols. Half‐normal saline (HNS)‐irrigation is a promising strategy to improve the success rate of VA ablation.

Objective

This study investigated the efficacy of HNS‐irrigated ablation after a failed standard plain normal saline solution (PNSS)‐irrigated ablation on idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmia (OT‐VA).

Method

This is a prospective observational study of consecutive patients undergoing RFA of idiopathic OT‐VA comparing the efficacy of additional HNS‐irrigated ablation for failed standard PNSS‐irrigated ablation. Acute failure was defined as persistence of spontaneous VA or persistent inducibility of the clinical VA.

Results

Out of 160 OT‐VA cases (51 ± 15‐year‐old, 62 males), 31 underwent HNS irrigation after a failed standard PNSS‐irrigated ablation. The HNS group had a significantly longer procedure time (60.06 ± 43.83 vs 37.51 ± 33.40 minutes; P = .013) and higher radiation exposure (31.45 ± 20.24 vs 17.22 ± 15.25 minutes; P = .001) than the PNSS group but provided an additional acute success in 21 of 31 (67.7%) patients. Over a follow‐up duration of 7.8 ± 4.6 months, 24 recurrences were identified, including 8 (25.8%) in the HNS and 16 (12.4%) in the PNSS group, with lower freedom from recurrence in the HNS group (log rank P = .009). No major complication was observed.

Conclusion

HNS‐irrigated ablation after failed standard PNSS‐irrigated ablation is safe and additionally improves acute ablation success by 67.7% for idiopathic OT‐VA but with a higher rate of recurrence on follow‐up. Whether the application of HNS as initial irrigant could result in better outcome requires further investigation.
High prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease among hidradenitis suppurativa patients independent of classic metabolic risk factors
Authors: Durán‐Vian C. , Arias‐Loste M.T. , Hernández J.L. , Fernández V. , González M. , Iruzubieta P. , Rasines L. , González‐Vela C. , Vaqué J.P. , Blanco R. , Crespo J. , González‐López M.A.
Published: July 2019

Background

Some chronic inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, have been associated with an increased prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Nevertheless, this prevalence in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) has not been assessed to date.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of NAFLD in patients with HS and the risk factors associated with this disorder.

Methods

This case–control study enrolled 70 HS patients and 150 age‐ and gender‐matched controls who were evaluated by hepatic ultrasonography (US) and transient elastography (TE) after excluding other secondary causes of chronic liver disease. The diagnosis of NAFLD was established if US and/or TE were altered.

Results

The prevalence of NAFLD was significantly increased in patients with HS compared to controls (72.9% vs. 24.7%: P < 0.001). In the multivariable regression model adjusted for age, sex and classic metabolic risk factors for NAFLD, HS was significantly and independently associated with the presence of NAFLD [OR 7.75 confidence interval (CI) 2.54–23.64; P < 0.001].

Conclusions

Our results show a high prevalence of NAFLD in HS patients independent of classic metabolic risk factors. Therefore, we suggest HS patients to be evaluated for NAFLD and managed accordingly.
Three‐dimensional modeling of heat transfer during freezing of suspended and in‐contact‐with‐a‐surface yellow potatoes and ullucus
Authors: Salas‐Valerio Walter , Solano‐Cornejo Miguel , Zelada‐Bazán Moisés , Vidaurre‐Ruiz Julio
Published: July 2019

The aim of this research was to model the heat transfer during the freezing process of cubed yellow potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) and ullucus (Ullucus tuberosus Caldas). A mathematical model was developed using the three‐dimensional (3D) finite difference scheme to simulate the freezing process of suspended and in‐contact‐with‐a‐surface cubic particles. The thermophysical properties were predicted using the proximal composition and the convective heat transfer coefficient (h) was obtained by optimizing the root mean square error (RMSE) value. A pseudo h was included to simulate the heat transfer of cubic particles in‐contact‐with‐a‐surface. Low values of h were found for suspended frozen cubes (17–27 W/m2°C) and high values of pseudo h (295–371 W/m2°C) were determined for frozen cubes in‐contact‐with‐a‐surface. An excellent agreement was observed between experimental and predicted temperatures histories (RMSE: 0.6–1.7°C) at different thermocouples positions. In conclusion, the developed model simulated correctly the freezing profile of potato and ullucu in cubic shape. With this model, the possible effects of h and external temperature on freezing times of these vegetables under different positions were evaluated and were represented by polynomial equations that could be used in the industry.

Practical Applications

In this research, a simple and easy‐to‐implement mathematical model was developed to simulate the heat transfer during freezing process of yellow potatoes and ullucus in cubes. The 3D finite difference scheme developed can be used to simulate the freezing of suspended cubed food, as is the case of fluidized bed freezers, or that are in contact with a metal surface, as in plate freezers. In addition, this study presented polynomial equations that allow the quick and precise calculation of the freezing times of cubed yellow potatoes and ullucus.
Association of FUT2 and ABO with Crohn's disease in Koreans
Authors: Ye Byong Duk , Kim Byoung Mok , Jung Seulgi , Lee Ho‐Su , Hong Myunghee , Kim Kihyun , Moon Jung Won , Baek Jiwon , Oh Eun Hye , Hwang Sung Wook , Park Sang Hyoung , Yang Suk‐Kyun , Song Kyuyoung
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim

Fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) at 19q13 is a well‐established susceptibility locus for Crohn's disease (CD) in Caucasians. FUT2 encodes α‐1,2‐fucosyltransferase that regulates the secretion of the α‐1‐2‐N‐acetylgalactosaminyltransferase and α‐1‐3‐galactosyltransferase (ABO) antigens in both the gastrointestinal mucosa and secretory glands. Given that CD is thought to arise from dysregulated mucosal immune responses to the gut flora and both the ABO blood group and the FUT2 secretor status affect the composition of the gut microbiota, the goal of this study was to evaluate the associations of variants of FUT2 and ABO with CD in Koreans.

Methods

Three single‐nucleotide polymorphisms from the FUT2 and ABO genes were genotyped in 1735 patients with CD and 8074 healthy controls.

Results

The FUT2 non‐secretor allele showed genome‐wide significant association with CD in Koreans (rs1047781, odds ratio [OR] = 1.30, Pcombined = 3.52 × 10−12). The ABO locus showed genome‐wide significant association with CD in Asians (Pmeta = 2.35 × 10−8). A moderate association was observed with the A and B groups (OR = 1.40, P = 2.26 × 10−6; and OR = 1.32, P = 1.92 × 10−4, respectively) compared with the O group. Following stratification on the basis of FUT2 genotype, carriers of the secretor O blood group were significantly protective against CD than were those of the secretor non‐O blood group (OR = 0.63, 95% confidence interval = 0.54–0.73, P = 2.86 × 10−9).

Conclusions

These are the first results indicating that the O blood group and FUT2 secretor status are protective factors against CD in Asians.
The use of topical Nitrosomonas eutropha for cosmetic improvement of facial wrinkles
Authors: Notay Manisha , Saric‐Bosanac Suzana , Vaughn Alexandra R. , Dhaliwal Simran , Trivedi Megha , Reiter Paloma N. , Rybak Iryna , Li Connie C. , Weiss Larry B. , Ambrogio Lauren , Burney Waqas , Sivamani Raja K.
Published: July 2019

Background

Both topical and oral probiotics are becoming widely used. There is increasing interest in the cosmetic potential in topical probiotics. Nitrosomonas eutropha is an ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to assess whether there is any improvement in facial wrinkles with the use of Nitrosomonas eutropha, a topical probiotic.

Methods

In this prospective study, high‐resolution photographs were obtained in twenty‐nine participants at baseline and after using topical Nitrosomonas eutropha for seven days.

Results

There was a significant difference in wrinkle depth and severity in the high concentration probiotic group. There was also a statistically significant improvement in pigmentation of the forehead and glabella in the higher concentration group.

Conclusions

Nitrosomonas eutropha may have aesthetic benefits in terms of reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Larger studies with longer treatment and follow‐up periods are required.
Role of oxidative stress in follicular fluid on embryos of patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatment
Authors: Terao Hiromi , Wada‐Hiraike Osamu , Nagumo Aiko , Kunitomi Chisato , Azhary Jerilee M. K. , Harada Miyuki , Hirata Tetsuya , Hirota Yasushi , Koga Kaori , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: July 2019

Aim

Oxidative stress (OS) is defined as an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in favor of the oxidants, and the disruption of redox signaling leads to molecular damages. This study was conducted to clarify the effect of OS in individual follicular fluid (FF) on oocyte fertilization and embryonic division.

Methods

A total of 124 patients who underwent assisted reproductive technology treatment in our hospital underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection and 211 FF were collected. The ova were fertilized, and embryos were individually cultured until cleavage stage or blastocyst stage and classified according to the Veeck classification system or Gardner classification system.

Results

The follicular fluid corresponding to the ovum was analyzed by measuring the OS marker, the reactive oxygen metabolites (d‐ROM test), and the antioxidant marker (biological antioxidant potential marker [BAP] test), and the relation between these markers and clinical parameters was analyzed. The value of d‐ROM was correlated with the proper fertilization status and formation of good quality cleavage embryo, whereas the elevated value of BAP was observed in better embryonic development group. Oxidative stress index, defined as d‐ROM/BAP × 100 clearly indicated that lower oxidative stress index was associated with better fertilization status and embryo development.

Conclusion

Our results clearly indicate that the balance between OS and antioxidant capacity in FF at the time of oocyte retrieval is possibly important in the processes of fertilization and embryo division; thus, we propose that oxidative status and balance in FF might be used as novel biomarkers in assisted reproductive technology.
Thiamine deficiency affects glucose transport and β‐oxidation in rats
Authors: Gralak Mikołaj Antoni , Dębski Bogdan , Drywień Małgorzata
Published: July 2019

Thiamine is recognized as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in intermediary metabolism responsible for energy production. Animal model of thiamine deficiency (TD) included direct evaluation of glucose uptake by estimation of 3H‐deoxyglucose transport across red blood cells membranes and β‐oxidation of fatty acids in isolated leucocytes. Feeding of animals with the thiamine‐deficient diet (0.018 mg/kg diet) for 30 days resulted in disturbances in energy production. The thiamine intake was limited not only by vitamin B1 deficiency in the diet, but also by time‐dependent drop of feed consumption by rats fed this diet. At the end of experiment, diet consumption in this group of rats was 52% lower than in the control group. This was accompanied by low glucose uptake by erythrocytes of rats suffering vitamin B1 deficiency for longer time. At the end of experimental period, glucose uptake was over 2 times lower in TD erythrocytes than in control RBC. Such drop of energy production was not compensated by delivery of energy from fatty acid degradation. In leucocytes from TD rats, the β‐oxidation was also suppressed. Observed significant decrease of serum insulin from 2.25 ± 0.25 ng/ml (day 0) to 1.94 ± 0.17 ng/ml (day 30) might have significant impact on observed energy production disorders. The results from this study indicate that the thiamine deficiency significantly reduces feed intake and causes modest abnormalities in glucose and fatty acid utilization.
Effects of UV Radiation on Photosynthesis, Antioxidant Capacity and the Accumulation of Bioactive Compounds in Gracilariopsis longissima, Hydropuntia cornea and Halopithys incurva (Rhodophyta)
Authors: Álvarez‐Gómez Félix , Korbee Nathalie , Figueroa Félix L.
Published: July 2019

The red macroalgae Hydropuntia cornea, Gracilariopsis longissima and Halopithys incurva were cultured for 14 d under laboratory conditions, in enriched seawater with a high nutrient content (N‐NH4+ and P‐PO43−) and two radiation regimes: PAR (400–700 nm) and PAB (280–700 nm). The UV radiation effects under high availability of nutrients on growth, photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, carotenoids and phycobiliproteins), photosynthetic activity and biochemical composition were studied. Maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) was not significantly different among the PAR and PAB treatments during the experiment. However, the maximum electronic transport rate (ETRmax) increased over time, showing the highest values in PAR for H. incurva and H. cornea, whereas for G. longissima it was found in PAB. Photosynthetic efficiency (αETR) decreased over time in the first two species, but increased in G. longissima. Saturation irradiance (EkETR) and maximum nonphotochemical quenching (NPQmax) increased in PAB with time up to 80% and 30%, respectively, indicating a photosynthetic acclimatization like that of sun‐type algae. Five MAAs were identified in all species using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The total content of MAAs increased over time, being 30% higher in H. incurva, 40% in G. longissima and 50% in H. cornea in PAB than in the PAR treatment. Finally, the antioxidant activity was also higher in the PAB treatment. All of the species presented an effective mechanism of photoprotection based on the accumulation of photoprotective compounds with antioxidant activity, as well as a high dissipation of excitation energy (high NPQmax).
Ambulatory detection of sleep apnea using a non‐contact biomotion sensor
Authors: Crinion Sophie J. , Tiron Roxana , Lyon Graeme , Zaffaroni Alberto , Kilroy Hannah , Doheny Emer , O'Hare Emer , Boyle Patricia , Russell Audrey , Traynor Mark , Kent Brian D. , Ryan Silke , McNicholas Walter T.
Published: July 2019

The high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea has led to increasing interest in ambulatory diagnosis. The SleepMinder™ (SM) is a novel non‐contact device that employs radiofrequency wave technology to assess the breathing pattern, and thereby estimate obstructive sleep apnea severity. We assessed the performance of SleepMinder™ in the home diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea.

One‐hundred and twenty‐two subjects were prospectively recruited in two protocols, one from an unselected sleep clinic cohort (n = 67, mean age 51 years) and a second from a hypertension clinic cohort (n = 55, mean age 58 years). All underwent 7 consecutive nights of home monitoring (SMHOME) with the SleepMinder™ as well as inpatient‐attended polysomnography in the sleep clinic cohort or cardiorespiratory polygraphy in the hypertension clinic cohort with simultaneous SleepMinder™ recordings (SMLAB).

In the sleep clinic cohort, median SMHOME apnea–hypopnea index correlated significantly with polysomnography apnea–hypopnea index (r = .68; p < .001), and in the hypertension clinic cohort with polygraphy apnea–hypopnea index (r = .7; p < .001). The median SMHOME performance against polysomnography in the sleep clinic cohort showed a sensitivity and specificity of 72% and 94% for apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 15. Device performance was inferior in females. In the hypertension clinic cohort, SMHOME showed a 50% sensitivity and 72% specificity for apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 15. SleepMinder™ classified 92% of cases correctly or within one severity class of the polygraphy classification. Night‐to‐night variability in home testing was relatively high, especially at lower apnea–hypopnea index levels.

We conclude that the SleepMinder™ device provides a useful ambulatory screening tool, especially in a population suspected of obstructive sleep apnea, and is most accurate in moderate–severe obstructive sleep apnea.
The influence of room spaciousness on investigative interviews
Authors: Hoogesteyn Katherine , Meijer Ewout , Vrij Aldert
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The quality of information obtained from investigative interviews largely relies on the quality of communication between the interviewee and interviewer. One aspect of the communication process that has yet to be well examined is the environment in which the interviews take place. The present study examined the influence of physical spaciousness, manipulated as room size and interpersonal sitting distance between interviewer and interviewee on the disclosure of crime‐related information, as well as perceptions of rapport and overall interview experience.

Methods

Participants engaged in a virtual reality scenario depicting a crime and were interviewed as suspects in either a larger or smaller room, at a closer or larger distance.

Results

Results showed no links between room size and sitting distance on disclosure rates. However, an exploratory analysis did reveal that participants interviewed in the larger room reported more positive interview experience in terms of spaciousness, and consequently higher perceptions of rapport, compared to those interviewed in the small room.

Conclusions

We found evidence against an influence of room size and interpersonal distance on disclosure. Still, our study does provide initial evidence that manipulating room size in an interview context could positively impact rapport‐building.
Causal Effects of PetroCaribe on Sustainable Development: A Synthetic Control Analysis
Authors: Jardón Acel , Kuik Onno , Tol Richard S.J.
Published: July 2019

We examine the causal effects of the energy subsidy programme PetroCaribe in the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. We use the synthetic control method to construct a counterfactual and compare it to the outcomes of the beneficiary countries and thus estimate the magnitude and direction of the PetroCaribe effect. PetroCaribe had a positive effect on economic growth in most of the beneficiary countries; however, this economic boost was not followed by an improvement in social development. Environmentally, PetroCaribe did not negatively or positively impact the environmental quality of the member countries, in the sense that we do not find a significant effect on the trend of emissions per capita.
Welfare‐enhancing Trade Unions in an Oligopoly with Excessive Entry
Authors: de Pinto Marco , Goerke Laszlo
Published: July 2019

Trade unions are often argued to cause allocative inefficiencies and to lower welfare. We analyze whether this evaluation is also justified in a Cournot‐oligopoly with free but costly entry. If input markets are competitive and output per firm declines with the number of firms (business stealing), there is excessive entry into such oligopoly. If trade unions raise wages above the competitive level, output and profits per firm decline, which could deter entry and thus improve welfare. We find that an increase in the union’s bargaining power raises welfare if the (inverse) demand curve is (sufficiently) concave. We also show that collective bargaining loosens the linkage between business stealing and excessive entry.
Reading Comprehension and Predictability Effects on Sentence Processing: An Event‐Related Potential Study
Authors: Tabullo Ángel Javier , Shalom Diego , Sevilla Yamila , Gattei Carolina Andrea , París Luis , Wainselboim Alejandro
Published: July 2019

Electrophysiology studies have identified two event‐related potentials that are modulated by predictive processes during language comprehension: the N400 and a frontal positivity. The N400 is smaller when words are presented within highly restrictive sentences, indicating reduced lexical retrieval costs. Violations of strong predictions generate larger frontal positivities, possibly reflecting inhibitory processes. More skilled comprehenders may exhibit enhanced predictive processing, but this possibility has seldom been investigated with event‐related potentials (ERPs). We analyzed the association between predictability ERP modulations and reading comprehension abilities. Twenty‐four undergraduate students were exposed to strongly and weakly constraining sentences, ending with an expected or unexpected final word. Their comprehension skills were assessed with a cloze task. Better comprehenders showed smaller N400s for expected words, and larger posterior positivities for unexpected endings, in strongly constraining contexts. These effects correlated with reading comprehension scores. The results suggest that better comprehenders take more advantage of predictions to reduce retrieval costs, and allocate more resources to postlexical integration processes.
The experiences and impact of being deemed ineligible for living kidney donation: Semi‐structured interview study
Authors: Ralph Angelique F , Chadban Steve J , Butow Phyllis , Craig Jonathan C , Kanellis John , Wong Germaine , Logeman Charlotte , Tong Allison
Published: July 2019

Aim

We aimed to describe the impact and experience of being deemed ineligible as a living kidney donor.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 27 ineligible donor candidates. Transcripts were analysed thematically.

Results

Seven themes were identified: deriving health and relationship benefits in the process (strengthening emotional connection, identifying problematic health conditions); devastating loss and disappointment (harbouring guilt over personal failings, shattering confidence and hope, undermining relationships with extended family and friends, disrupting home dynamics); constrained within a rigid system (denied autonomy, resorting to other avenues); acknowledging as matter of fact (accepting the clinical decision, reassured by preventing a poor outcome); reluctant to relinquish the donor identity (unable to fulfil family duty, having the donor role stolen, holding onto other opportunities to donate); uncertainty in unpredictability, inconsistency and ambiguities (frustrated by inefficiencies, questioning clinician motivation, suspended donor status, unfairness in changeable eligibility criteria, unresolved concerns and questions of own health); and abandoned in despair (lacking practical support to meet eligibility criteria, ill prepared for rejection, dismissed and discarded by the system).

Conclusion

Being deemed unsuitable for donation took an emotional toll on ineligible donor candidates who felt immense guilt for ‘failing’ the potential recipient. Ineligible donor candidates were frustrated and angry with the perceived lack of support from clinicians and rigidity of the evaluation process. Informing potential donors of available services, including psychological support, communicating the decision sensitively and with sufficient time, and full disclosure of their health status, may contribute to improved adjustment following the ineligibility decision.
Comparative genomics reveals unique wood‐decay strategies and fruiting body development in the Schizophyllaceae
Authors: Almási Éva , Sahu Neha , Krizsán Krisztina , Bálint Balázs , Kovács Gábor M. , Kiss Brigitta , Cseklye Judit , Drula Elodie , Henrissat Bernard , Nagy István , Chovatia Mansi , Adam Catherine , LaButti Kurt , Lipzen Anna , Riley Robert , Grigoriev Igor V. , Nagy László G.
Published: July 2019

Agaricomycetes are fruiting body‐forming fungi that produce some of the most efficient enzyme systems to degrade wood. Despite decades‐long interest in their biology, the evolution and functional diversity of both wood‐decay and fruiting body formation are incompletely known.

We performed comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses of wood‐decay and fruiting body development in Auriculariopsis ampla and Schizophyllum commune (Schizophyllaceae), species with secondarily simplified morphologies, an enigmatic wood‐decay strategy and weak pathogenicity to woody plants.

The plant cell wall‐degrading enzyme repertoires of Schizophyllaceae are transitional between those of white rot species and less efficient wood‐degraders such as brown rot or mycorrhizal fungi. Rich repertoires of suberinase and tannase genes were found in both species, with tannases restricted to Agaricomycetes that preferentially colonize bark‐covered wood, suggesting potential complementation of their weaker wood‐decaying abilities and adaptations to wood colonization through the bark. Fruiting body transcriptomes revealed a high rate of divergence in developmental gene expression, but also several genes with conserved expression patterns, including novel transcription factors and small‐secreted proteins, some of the latter which might represent fruiting body effectors.

Taken together, our analyses highlighted novel aspects of wood‐decay and fruiting body development in an important family of mushroom‐forming fungi.
KNAT2/6b, a class I KNOX gene, impedes xylem differentiation by regulating NAC domain transcription factors in poplar
Authors: Zhao Yanqiu , Song Xueqin , Zhou Houjun , Wei Kaili , Jiang Cheng , Wang Jinnan , Cao Yuan , Tang Fang , Zhao Shutang , Lu Meng‐Zhu
Published: July 2019

Wood formation is the terminal differentiation of xylem mother cells derived from cambial initials, and negative regulators play important roles in xylem differentiation.

The molecular mechanism of the negative regulator of xylem differentiation PagKNAT2/6b was investigated. PagKNAT2/6b is an ortholog of Arabidopsis KNAT2 and KNAT6 that is highly expressed in phloem and xylem. Compared to nontransgenic control plants, transgenic poplar plants overexpressing PagKNAT2/6b present with altered vascular patterns, characterized by decreased secondary xylem with thin cell walls containing less cellulose, xylose and lignin.

RNA sequencing analyses revealed that differentially expressed genes are enriched in xylem differentiation and secondary wall synthesis functions. Expression of NAM/ATAF/CUC (NAC) domain genes including PagSND1‐A1, PagSND1‐A2, PagSND1‐B2 and PagVND6‐C1 is downregulated by PagKNAT2/6b, while PagXND1a is directly upregulated. Accordingly, the dominant repression form of PagKNAT2/6b leads to increased xylem width per stem diameter through downregulation of PagXND1a.

PagKNAT2/6b can inhibit cell differentiation and secondary wall deposition during wood formation in poplar by modulating the expression of NAC domain transcription factors. Direct activation of PagXND1a by PagKNAT2/6b is a key node in the negative regulatory network of xylem differentiation by KNOXs.
Pyramiding three rust‐resistance genes confers a high level of resistance in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Yamanaka Naoki , Hossain Md. M.
Published: July 2019

Pyramiding Asian soybean rust (ASR) resistance (Rpp) genes in a single genotype has been shown to increase ASR resistance in soybean. However, it remains unclear which combinations of Rpp genes are superior. Therefore, here, we developed six new Rpp‐pyramided lines carrying different combinations of Rpp genes and evaluated their resistance against 13 Bangladeshi rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi) isolates (BdRPs) alongside seven previously developed Rpp‐pyramided lines. We found that lines carrying one, two and three Rpp genes had high ASR resistance without sporulation in 13.8%, 35.2% and 73.1% of the assays, respectively. Among the new lines that were developed, those with Rpp3 + Rpp4 and Rpp3 + Rpp4 + Rpp5 had high levels of ASR resistance, while the line containing Rpp2 + Rpp4 + Rpp5 showed immunity phenotype at two weeks after inoculation by the BdRP‐22 infection. Thus, pyramiding larger numbers of Rpp genes confers soybean with a higher level of resistance to ASR pathogens and can produce an immunity phenotype at two weeks after inoculation.
Multicenter randomized controlled trial of bifrontal, bitemporal, and right unilateral electroconvulsive therapy in major depressive disorder
Authors: Su Liang , Jia Yuping , Liang Shiqiao , Shi Shenxun , Mellor David , Xu Yifeng
Published: July 2019

Aim

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been shown to be the most effective and rapid treatment for severe depression. Electrode placement is one of the most important factors that affect ECT's efficacy and side‐effects profile. Bifrontal, bitemporal, and unilateral are the three most used electrode placements. Very few studies have directly compared the efficacy and cognitive side‐effects of the three placements. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and cognitive side‐effects associated with bifrontal, bitemporal, and unilateral electrode placements.

Methods

This multicenter randomized, blinded, controlled trial included 40 patients in each of the three groups. Most of the patients (94.8%) completed six ECT treatments. We used mixed‐model analyses to compare differences in 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD‐17) and Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scores among the three groups and the five times series (baseline, Week 1, Week 2, Week 3, and Week 4). The cognitive outcome was Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score.

Results

HAMD‐17 and CGI scores did not differ significantly across the groups (HAMD‐17 scores: z = −1.13, P = 0.259; CGI scores: z = −0.35, P = 0.729). MMSE scores at pre‐ and post‐ECT were similar across the three groups (F = 2.06, P = 0.133). However, subgroup analysis using paired t‐tests showed that MMSE scores improved in the right unilateral and bifrontal groups (t = 2.745, P = 0.0098; t = 2.464, P = 0.0204), but did not change in the bitemporal group (t = 1.188, P = 0.2461).

Conclusion

The efficacy of right unilateral and bifrontal ECT placement was similar to that of bitemporal ECT. The physical side‐effects were also similar across the three groups. Right unilateral and bifrontal ECT placement were associated with improved cognitive outcomes, but bitemporal ECT placement was not.
The chik sign in dengue
Authors: Bhatia Shibani S. , Shenoi Shrutakirthi D. , Hebbar Shrikiran A. , Kayarkatte Manasa N.
Published: July 2019

The "chik sign" is considered to be one of the most common cutaneous features of chikungunya fever and has been considered unique to this disorder. It consists of brownish hyperpigmentation involving the nose. We report a case of a 3‐year‐old boy with dengue infection who presented with macular hyperpigmentation of nose simulating the chik sign. Hyperpigmentation is an unusual cutaneous manifestation in cases of dengue.
A case of verrucous perforating collagenoma in a toddler
Authors: Aizman Leora , Gelman Ari , Marathe Kalyani
Published: July 2019

Verrucous perforating collagenoma is an extremely rare variant of acquired perforating dermatosis that has been seldom described in literature. We present the case of an 18‐month‐old boy who presented with an erythematous plaque with a central keratotic plug on the leg. Histopathology revealed transepidermal elimination of collagen, consistent with a diagnosis of verrucous perforating collagenoma.
Dermatologic care of sexual and gender minority/LGBTQIA youth, Part I: An update for the dermatologist on providing inclusive care
Authors: Boos Markus D. , Yeung Howa , Inwards‐Breland David
Published: July 2019

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) persons, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/gender diverse, questioning/queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA) individuals, represent a historically underserved population within the field of medicine, though their unique health needs are increasingly recognized. Unfortunately, our understanding of these needs as they relate to dermatology is still nascent, particularly with respect to children and adolescents. This two‐part review will discuss the dermatologic care of SGM youth, with Part 1 providing practical advice for dermatologists seeking to provide more culturally mindful and accessible care for SGM children and adolescents. A more comprehensive understanding of the psychosocial and physical needs of SGM youth will allow dermatologists to more actively and compassionately care for this health disparity population.