bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroendocrinology and neurobiology of sebaceous glands
Authors: Clayton Richard W. , Langan Ewan A. , Ansell David M. , de Vos Ivo J. H. M. , Göbel Klaus , Schneider Marlon R. , Picardo Mauro , Lim Xinhong , van Steensel Maurice A. M. , Paus Ralf
Published: January 2020

The nervous system communicates with peripheral tissues through nerve fibres and the systemic release of hypothalamic and pituitary neurohormones. Communication between the nervous system and the largest human organ, skin, has traditionally received little attention. In particular, the neuro‐regulation of sebaceous glands (SGs), a major skin appendage, is rarely considered. Yet, it is clear that the SG is under stringent pituitary control, and forms a fascinating, clinically relevant peripheral target organ in which to study the neuroendocrine and neural regulation of epithelia. Sebum, the major secretory product of the SG, is composed of a complex mixture of lipids resulting from the holocrine secretion of specialised epithelial cells (sebocytes). It is indicative of a role of the neuroendocrine system in SG function that excess circulating levels of growth hormone, thyroxine or prolactin result in increased sebum production (seborrhoea). Conversely, growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency result in reduced sebum production and dry skin. Furthermore, the androgen sensitivity of SGs appears to be under neuroendocrine control, as hypophysectomy (removal of the pituitary) renders SGs largely insensitive to stimulation by testosterone, which is crucial for maintaining SG homeostasis. However, several neurohormones, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone and α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone, can stimulate sebum production independently of either the testes or the adrenal glands, further underscoring the importance of neuroendocrine control in SG biology. Moreover, sebocytes synthesise several neurohormones and express their receptors, suggestive of the presence of neuro‐autocrine mechanisms of sebocyte modulation. Aside from the neuroendocrine system, it is conceivable that secretion of neuropeptides and neurotransmitters from cutaneous nerve endings may also act on sebocytes or their progenitors, given that the skin is richly innervated. However, to date, the neural controls of SG development and function remain poorly investigated and incompletely understood. Botulinum toxin‐mediated or facial paresis‐associated reduction of human sebum secretion suggests that cutaneous nerve‐derived substances modulate lipid and inflammatory cytokine synthesis by sebocytes, possibly implicating the nervous system in acne pathogenesis. Additionally, evidence suggests that cutaneous denervation in mice alters the expression of key regulators of SG homeostasis. In this review, we examine the current evidence regarding neuroendocrine and neurobiological regulation of human SG function in physiology and pathology. We further call attention to this line of research as an instructive model for probing and therapeutically manipulating the mechanistic links between the nervous system and mammalian skin.
Preschool Quality Effects on Learning Behavior and Later Achievement in Germany: Moderation by Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Schmerse Daniel
Published: January 2020

This study investigates whether children’s preschool experiences are associated with later achievement via enhanced learning behaviors using data from a German longitudinal study following children (N = 554) from age 3 in preschool to age 8 in second grade. There were two main findings. First, results suggest that more positive learning behaviors at school entry mediate effects of teacher–child interactions in preschool on second‐grade achievement. Second, these effects varied by parental socioeconomic status (SES) indicating that low‐SES children benefited the most. The findings highlight the role of preschool classroom environments in shaping the school readiness of children with socioeconomic risk factors.
Further definition of the proximal 19p13.3 microdeletion/microduplication syndrome and implication of PIAS4 as the major contributor
Authors: Tenorio Jair , Nevado Julián , González‐Meneses Antonio , Arias Pedro , Dapía Irene , Venegas‐Vega Carlos A. , Calvente María , Hernández Alicia , Landera Leandro , Ramos Sergio ,   The SOGRI Consortium, Cigudosa Juan Cruz , Pérez‐Jurado Luis A. , Lapunzina Pablo
Published: January 2020

The proximal 19p13.3 microdeletion/microduplication (prox19p13.3del/dup) syndrome is a recently described disorder with common clinical features including developmental delay, intellectual disability, speech delay, facial dysmorphic features with ear defects, anomalies of the hands and feet, umbilical hernia and hypotonia. While deletions are associated with macrocephaly, patients with duplications have microcephaly. The smallest region of overlap in multiple patients (113.5 kb) included three genes and one pseudogene, with a suggested major role of PIAS4 in determination of the phenotype and head size in these patients. Here, we refine the prox19p13.3del/dup with four additional patients: two with microdeletions, one with microduplication and one family with single‐nucleotide nonsense variant in PIAS4. The patient with the PIAS4 loss of function variant displayed a phenotype quite similar to deletion patients ‐including the macrocephaly and many other core features of the syndrome. Patient's SNV was inherited from her mother who is similarly affected. Thus, our data indicate that PIAS4 is a major contributor to the proximal 19p13.3del/dup syndrome phenotype. In summary, we report the first patient with a pathogenic variant in PIAS4‐ and three additional rearrangements at the proximal 19p13.3 locus. These observations add further evidence about the molecular basis of this microdeletion/microduplication syndrome.
distantia: an open‐source toolset to quantify dissimilarity between multivariate ecological time‐series
Authors: Benito Blas M. , Birks H. John B.
Published: January 2020

There is a large array of methods to extract knowledge and perform ecological forecasting from ecological time‐series. However, in spite of its importance for data‐mining, pattern‐matching and ecological synthesis, methods to assess their similarity are scarce. We introduce distantia (v1.0.1), an R package providing general toolset to quantify dissimilarity between ecological time‐series, independently of their regularity and number of samples. The functions in distantia provide the means to compute dissimilarity scores by time and by shape and assess their significance, evaluate the partial contribution of each variable to dissimilarity, and align or combine sequences by similarity. We evaluate the sensitivity of the dissimilarity metrics implemented in distantia, describe its structure and functionality, and showcase its applications with two examples. Particularly, we evaluate how geographic factors drive the dissimilarity between nine pollen sequences dated to the Last Interglacial, and compare the temporal dynamics of climate and enhanced vegetation index of three stands across the range of the European beech. We expect this package may enhance the capabilities of researchers from different fields to explore dissimilarity patterns between multivariate ecological time‐series, and aid in generating and testing new hypotheses on why the temporal dynamics of complex‐systems changes over space and time.
Visual preference of flower‐visiting crab spiders (Ebrechtella tricuspidata) for host flowers
Authors: Su Qichen , Qi Lin , Yun Yueli , Zhang Wei , Peng Yu
Published: January 2020

1. Crab spiders (Thomisidae) are common flower‐visiting spiders that ambush prey on inflorescences. As such, they require specific flowers or substrates for hunting, which are most often selected using sensory cues (e.g. vision). However, few studies have examined the visual preference of crab spiders for particular flowers. In this study, the visual preferences of the crab spider Ebrechtella tricuspidata for different inflorescence characteristics (e.g. colour and shape) were investigated.

2. The results showed that adult spiders explored all colours and shapes, whereas juvenile spiders displayed an overall preference for long (red) and short (purple) wavelength colours. Thus, differences in colour were not particularly important for E. tricuspidata with regard to visual attractiveness and selection.

3. However, inflorescence shape (e.g. tulip) was found to be a more desirable trait for selection, which was probably due to the provision of shelter.

4. These results also suggest that male preference for female spiders depended somewhat on the background colour (wavelength) of the flower on which the female was located.
Effects of the natural compound, oxyresveratrol, on the growth of Streptococcus mutans, and on biofilm formation, acid production, and virulence gene expression
Authors: Wu Jiayi , Fan Yu , Wang Xinyue , Jiang Xiaoge , Zou Jing , Huang Ruijie
Published: January 2020

Streptococcus mutans is one of the major pathogens of dental caries. Oxyresveratrol, a natural compound found in plants, exerts inhibitory effects on many bacterial species but its effect on S. mutans is unknown. The objective of this study was to clarify the antibacterial effect of oxyresveratrol on S. mutans, including effects on basic viability, acidogenicity, acidurity, and extracellular polysaccharide synthesis. The expression of nine genes that encode virulence and protective factors in S. mutans was measured by qRT‐PCR. Oxyresveratrol showed a dose‐dependent inhibitory effect on survival of S. mutans. At 250 μg ml−1, oxyresveratrol reduced the S. mutans survival rate, inhibited synthesis of water‐insoluble glucans, compromised biofilm formation, and significantly down‐regulated the expression of glucosyltransferase‐I (gtfB) and glucosyltransferase‐SI (gtfC). However, the enzymatic activity of lactate dehydrogenase protein was increased and the expression of lactate dehydrogenase (ldh) and ATP synthase subunit beta (atpD) genes were also up‐regulated. Besides, glucosyltransferase S (gtfD) up‐regulation indicated that water‐soluble glucan synthesis was promoted. The vicR, liaR, and comDE genes, which exert a self‐protective function in response to external stress, were also up‐regulated. In conclusion, oxyresveratrol inhibited the growth of S. mutans and also reduced biofilm formation, acid production, and synthesis of water‐insoluble glucans by this organism. In addition, oxyresveratrol also activated a series of S. mutans self‐protection mechanisms.
Sex‐specific perturbation of complex lipids in response to medium‐chain fatty acids in very long‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Alatibi Khaled I. , Wehbe Zeinab , Spiekerkoetter Ute , Tucci Sara
Published: January 2020

Very‐long‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCAD) is the most common defect of long‐chain fatty acid β‐oxidation. The recommended treatment includes the application of medium‐chain triacylglycerols (MCTs). However, long‐term treatment of VLCAD−/− mice resulted in the development of a sex‐specific metabolic syndrome due to the selective activation of the ERK/mTORc1 signalling in females and ERK/peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma pathway in males. In order to investigate a subsequent sex‐specific effect of MCT on the lipid composition of the cellular membranes, we performed lipidomic analysis, SILAC‐based quantitative proteomics and gene expression in fibroblasts from WT and VLCAD−/− mice of both sexes. Treatment with octanoate (C8) affected the composition of complex lipids resulting in a sex‐specific signature of the molecular profile. The content of ceramides and sphingomyelins in particular differed significantly under control conditions and increased markedly in cells from mutant female mice but remained unchanged in cells from mutant males. Moreover, we observed a specific upregulation of biosynthesis of plasmalogens only in male mice, whereas in females C8 led to the accumulation of higher concentration of phosphatidylcholines and lysophosphatidylcholines. Our data on membrane lipids in VLCAD after supplementation with C8 provide evidence of a sex‐specific lipid perturbation. We hypothesize a likely C8‐induced pro‐inflammatory response contributing to the development of a severe metabolic syndrome in female VLCAD−/− mice on long‐term MCT supplementation.
Cracking simulation‐based fatigue life assessment
Authors: Farag Mahmoud M. , El‐Kady Ramy M. , Hammouda Mohammad M.I.
Published: January 2020

A fracture mechanics numerical model is developed to simulate the collective behavior of growing short fatigue cracks originating from the surface of unnotched round specimens made of a two‐phase alloy. The specimen surface roughness is considered resembling microcracks of different sizes and locations along the minimum specimen circumference. Material grains of different phases, sizes, and strengths are randomly distributed over that circumference. Variations in mechanical and microstructural features of grains are randomly distributed. Possible activities of surface cracks are predicted against loading cycles till either fracture occurs or all existing cracks become nonpropagating. The material's S‐N curve and fatigue limit can, thus, be assessed. Published experimental data on ferritic‐pearlitic steel specimens in push‐pull constant amplitude loading (CAL) were utilized. Different specimens were randomly configured and virtually tested. Comparison of experimental results and corresponding predictions validates the model, which, further, recognizes the effect of surface roughness, specimen size, and mean stress on lives.
Populations of two annual clover species evolved in response to 13 years of grazing management and phosphate fertilizer application
Authors: Norman Hayley C. , Cocks Philip S. , Galwey Nicholas W.
Published: January 2020

A Syrian grassland was subject to 13 years of replicated management treatments, namely a factorial design of 0 or 60 kg/ha annually of phosphate fertilizer, combined with relatively low or high sheep stocking intensities. Previous work found that differences in grazing intensity and phosphate induced changes in the structure of the legume community, presumably due to changes in competitive relationships. The aim of this study was to investigate how the populations of the predominant clover species, Trifolium campestre and Trifolium tomentosum, changed as a consequence of management treatments. We hypothesized that the populations from the fertilized or low grazing intensity treatments would express phenotypic traits associated with increased competitive ability and/or with risk mitigation. Populations of both ruderal‐type clover species provided evidence of evolution but were largely responsive to different management factors. Assuming that heavy grazing and no fertilizer are the natural state of the grassland, addition of phosphate led to T. tomentosum plants that were wider and had larger seeds, traits associated with improved competitive ability. The populations from the fertilized paddocks had increased fecundity and a trend towards greater dormancy, traits associated with risk mitigation. In contrast, T. campestre plants became wider and more erect when stocking intensities were reduced and had greater seed dormancy in fertilized paddocks. The implication of this work is that the collection of germplasm from grasslands with a history of heavy grazing and fertilizer application may assist agronomists to find genotypes that are better adapted to pastures within ley farming systems in Australia.
Risks for noncutaneous second primary malignancy in cutaneous malignant melanoma survivors: an analysis of data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program
Authors: Vakharia Paras P. , Kelm Ryan C. , Orrell Kelsey A. , Patel Kevin R. , Singam Vivek , Ali Yasmeen , Rastogi Supriya , Yousif Rame , Rangel Stephanie M. , West Dennis P. , Nardone Beatrice
Published: January 2020

Background

It is known that malignant melanoma (MM) survivors are at increased risk of future primary MM. However, the risk for noncutaneous second primary malignancies (SPMs) is not as well‐understood.

Methods

An observational study utilizing data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was performed, assessing data from patients diagnosed with primary cutaneous MM to measure overall, as well as specific, tumor type and risk of SPM.

Results

Of the 132,438 patients recruited in the study population (mean age 55.5 years; 54% male), 23,794 SPMs were observed (O) (18% of patients at a mean age of 68.8 years), while 17,923 SPMs were expected (E) to occur (O : E 1.33, 95% CI 1.31–1.34). Excluding cutaneous MM occurring as a new primary malignancy, there was a significantly increased risk for SPMs among cutaneous MM survivors for each of the following tumor types: eye and orbit melanoma, tracheal, thyroid, salivary gland, retroperitoneum, small intestine, kidney, lymphoid and hematopoietic system, lymphoma overall, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, lymphocytic leukemia overall, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, male genital system (including prostate), and breast. Certain gender‐specific trends for SPMs were also detected.

Conclusions

Patients with primary cutaneous MM are at increased risk for primary noncutaneous MM as well as noncutaneous SPMs that include numerous tumor types. Enhanced oncologic surveillance for a variety of tumor types in melanoma survivors is warranted.
Graphical Comparison of High‐Dimensional Distributions
Authors: Modarres Reza
Published: January 2020

We consider groups of observations in
and present a simultaneous plot of the empirical cumulative distribution functions of the within and between interpoint distances to visualise and examine the equality of the underlying distribution functions of the observations. We provide several examples to illustrate how such plots can be utilised to envision and canvass the relationship between the two distributions under location, scale, dependence and shape changes. We suggest new statistics for testing the equality of
distributions and extend the simultaneous plots to visualise them. We compare the new statistics to existing tests based on the interpoint distances.
Multiple subcutaneous haematomas of the legs causing skin necrosis in an elderly patient affected by corticosteroid‐induced skin atrophy: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Vallini Valerio , Rinaldi Elisabetta , Mangano Luciana , Modesti Luca , Ghelardini Piero , Roberts Anna Theresa , Grazi Giovanni
Published: January 2020

Corticosteroid‐induced skin atrophy (CISA) consists of a thinning of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, representing the natural consequence of a prolonged glucocorticosteroids use, both systemic as well as topical. It is characterised by the loss of elasticity and skin thickness, associated with an increased skin fragility leading to ecchymoses, haematomas, and steroid purpura. The management of CISA is a challenge for physicians, as the pathology is reversible in a minimal percentage of cases and only after a short topical steroid or low‐dose course therapy. Often wounds with large loss of substance represent the more common complication, after a surgical drainage which is often necessary. Skin necrosis with compartment syndrome of a leg is another potential risk for these patients. Here, we report a case of an elderly patient affected by multiple subcutaneous haematomas of the legs causing skin necrosis, arisen after the use of anticoagulants for a deep venous thrombosis. The patient was successfully treated with surgical drainage, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), and porcine xenograft with no complications. Finally, we discuss the evidence of the current literature on topic.
The Ethics of Citizen Selection of Refugees for Admission and Resettlement
Authors: Lenard Patti Tamara
Published: January 2020

The global space is in need of creative solutions to the challenges posed by those seeking, and deserving of, asylum. In some democratic states, experiments in permitting citizens to have a greater role in selecting refugees for admission are underway; in this article, I consider the conditions that must apply to any citizen‐selection scheme, in order for such a scheme to be morally acceptable. I begin with an account of the way in which citizen‐selection schemes – usually called ‘sponsorship programs’ – operate presently. I then offer a justification for engaging citizens in refugee resettlement in general, as well as in selecting specific refugees for admission in particular, and then identify several conditions that must attend any permissible citizen‐selection scheme. I defend this account from two objections: (1) that states should be the primary, and indeed only, agent that selects refugees for admission and (2) that citizens will inevitably use problematic criteria in selecting refugees for admission, so they should be denied the right to do so. I conclude with some proposals for how a citizen‐selection scheme can be crafted to respond to this latter worry, including an outline of an exception clause that permits citizens to make the case that some refugees ought to be resettled, even if not specially selected by the UNHCR for resettlement priority, including especially family members and friends.
Co‐expression of glycosylated aquaporin‐1 and transcription factor NFAT5 contributes to aortic stiffness in diabetic and atherosclerosis‐prone mice
Authors: Madonna Rosalinda , Doria Vanessa , Görbe Anikó , Cocco Nino , Ferdinandy Péter , Geng Yong‐Jian , Pierdomenico Sante Donato , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: January 2020

Increased stiffness characterizes the early change in the arterial wall with subclinical atherosclerosis. Proteins inducing arterial stiffness in diabetes and hypercholesterolaemia are largely unknown. This study aimed at determining the pattern of protein expression in stiffening aorta of diabetic and hypercholesterolaemic mice. Male Ins2+/Akita mice were crossbred with ApoE−/− (Ins2+/Akita: ApoE−/−) mice. Relative aortic distension (relD) values were determined by ultrasound analysis and arterial stiffness modulators by immunoblotting. Compared with age‐ and sex‐matched C57/BL6 control mice, the aortas of Ins2+/Akita, ApoE−/− and Ins2+/Akita:ApoE−/− mice showed increased aortic stiffness. The aortas of Ins2+/Akita, ApoE−/− and Ins2+/Akita:ApoE−/− mice showed greater expression of VCAM‐1, collagen type III, NADPH oxidase and iNOS, as well as reduced elastin, with increased collagen type III‐to‐elastin ratio. The aorta of Ins2+/Akita and Ins2+/Akita:ApoE−/− mice showed higher expression of eNOS and cytoskeletal remodelling proteins, such as F‐actin and α‐smooth muscle actin, in addition to increased glycosylated aquaporin (AQP)‐1 and transcription factor NFAT5, which control the expression of genes activated by high glucose‐induced hyperosmotic stress. Diabetic and hypercholesterolaemic mice have increased aortic stiffness. The association of AQP1 and NFAT5 co‐expression with aortic stiffness in diabetes and hypercholesterolaemia may represent a novel molecular pathway or therapeutic target.
Long non‐coding RNA SUMO1P3 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through activating Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway by targeting miR‐320a
Authors: Wu Songsong , Chen Sheng , Lin Ning , Yang Jianchuan
Published: January 2020

In this study, we aimed to investigate expression profile of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) SUMO1P3, and its role and molecular mechanisms in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

The expression of SUMO1P3 in HCC tissues and cells was detected using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The chi‐squared test was used to estimate the relationship between SUMO1P3 levels and clinical characteristics of HCC cases. Cellular biological behaviours were investigated using MTT, transwell assays and wound healing assay. Bioinformatics and dual‐luciferase reporter assays were performed to identify potential target of SUMO1P3 in HCC. Additionally, protein analysis was carried out using Western blot.

The expression of SUMO1P3 was significantly higher in HCC tissues and cells than in non‐cancerous specimens and normal cells (P < .01). Moreover, its up‐regulation was closely correlated with lymph node metastasis (P = .027) and TNM stage (P = .019). SUMO1P3 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells. MiR‐320a was a potential target of SUMO1P3, and its expression was negatively regulated by SUMO1P3 in HCC SUMO1P3 could activate Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, which was mediated by miR‐320a.

Elevated expression of SUMO1P3 predicts malignant progression among HCC patients. SUMO1P3 enhances Wnt/β‐catenin pathway through sponging miR‐320a, thus contributing to aggressive progression of HCC.
Vitamin B6 inhibits macrophage activation to prevent lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute pneumonia in mice
Authors: Shan Mei‐Rong , Zhou Sheng‐Nan , Fu Chang‐Ning , Song Jia‐Wen , Wang Xue‐Qing , Bai Wen‐Wu , Li Peng , Song Ping , Zhu Mo‐Li , Ma Zhi‐Min , Liu Zhan , Xu Jian , Dong Bo , Liu Chao , Guo Tao , Zhang Cheng , Wang Shuang‐Xi
Published: January 2020

Macrophage activation participates in the pathogenesis of pulmonary inflammation. As a coenzyme, vitamin B6 (VitB6) is mainly involved in the metabolism of amino acids, nucleic acids, glycogen and lipids. We have previously reported that activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) produces anti‐inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo. Whether VitB6 via AMPK activation prevents pulmonary inflammation remains unknown. The model of acute pneumonia was induced by injecting mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The inflammation was determined by measuring the levels of interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), IL‐6 and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) using real time PCR, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. Exposure of cultured primary macrophages to VitB6 increased AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) Thr172 phosphorylation in a time/dose‐dependent manner, which was inhibited by compound C. VitB6 downregulated the inflammatory gene expressions including IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α in macrophages challenged with LPS. These effects of VitB6 were mirrored by AMPK activator 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR). However, VitB6 was unable to inhibit LPS‐induced macrophage activation if AMPK was in deficient through siRNA‐mediated approaches. Further, the anti‐inflammatory effects produced by VitB6 or AICAR in LPS‐treated macrophages were abolished in DOK3 gene knockout (DOK3−/−) macrophages, but were enhanced in macrophages if DOK3 was overexpressed. In vivo studies indicated that administration of VitB6 remarkably inhibited LPS‐induced both systemic inflammation and acute pneumonia in wild‐type mice, but not in DOK3−/− mice. VitB6 prevents LPS‐induced acute pulmonary inflammation in mice via the inhibition of macrophage activation.
RETRACTED: MicroRNA‐612 inhibits cervical cancer progression by targeting NOB1
Authors: Jin Yang , Zhou Xu , Yao Xiaoxiao , Zhang Zhuo , Cui Manhua , Lin Yang
Published: January 2020

Recently, many studies have shown that microRNA (miR)‐612 is involved in cancer progression. However, the role of miR‐612 in cervical cancer remains unclear. The present study aims to investigate the biological effects of miR‐612 on cervical cancer. The expression of miR‐612 in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines was analysed by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. The effect of miR‐612 cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis was studied by appropriate methods. Protein expression was determined by Western blot analyses. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays were performed to clarify the relationship between miR‐612 and nin one binding protein (NOB1). A xenograft model was established to examine the role of miR‐612 in vivo tumorigenesis. Cervical cancer tissues and cell lines showed down‐regulation of miR‐612 expression, which was associated with the Fédération Internationale de Gynécologie et d'Obstétrique (FIGO) stage and lymph node metastasis. Functional assays revealed that miR‐612 overexpression significantly suppressed cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and delayed tumour growth in vivo. Mechanically, miR‐612 targeted NOB1 in cervical cancer cells, revealing a negative correlation between miR‐612 and NOB1in cervical cancer samples. NOB1 overexpression partially reversed the inhibitory effects of miR‐612 overexpression in cervical cancer cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that miR‐612 functions as a tumour suppressor in cervical cancer and suggest that miR‐612 may be a potential target in the therapeutic intervention of this malignancy.
Hearing what cannot be said
Authors: de Bock Ben A. , Willems Dick L.
Published: January 2020

Rationale, aims, and objectives

The way in which care providers describe incapacitated elderly people is not without implications. The different ways in which they describe their patients—client, patient, or a sick human being—have consequences for their relationships with these patients and the decision‐making processes. The aim of this study is to use insights from complexity thinking to understand the dynamic relations between various patient descriptions in decision‐making.

Method

We conducted a retrospective qualitative empirical study. Health care professionals were interviewed on how their decisions with the families of the patients were made during the course of the patients' illness. Transcriptions of interviews with physicians, residential practitioners, nurses, and head nurses were made regarding their contribution to the decision‐making process. Methodologies of complexity thinkers can be helpful to not articulate the implications of individual patient descriptions, but also their interrelationships.

Results

Instead of reducing their patients with the logic of the market to clients or with the logic of medicine to patients, health care providers learn in an emergent dialogic encounter to care for them as sick persons.

Conclusions

Shared‐decision‐making favours the involvement of patients and their families in decision‐making. However, due to a domination of the logic of the market and the logic of medicine, decision‐making is problematic. As professional mediators, health care providers learn, however, to balance client demands, medical perspectives, and embodied dialogic care in decision‐making for voiceless patients.
Vertebral column deformity with curved cross‐stitch vertebrae in Norwegian seawater‐farmed Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.
Authors: Trangerud Cathrine , Bjørgen Håvard , Koppang Erling Olaf , Grøntvedt Randi Nygaard , Skogmo Hege Kippenes , Ottesen Nina , Kvellestad Agnar
Published: January 2020

Pathological changes in the vertebral column of farmed Atlantic salmon in Norway have been reported since the 1990s. Based on the characteristic radiographic findings, we here present a vertebral column deformity named “curved cross‐stitch vertebrae” that mainly affects the middle aspect of the vertebral column. Sixty fish, from the west/northwest coast of mid‐Norway, were sampled at slaughter and examined by radiography, computed tomography (CT), necropsy, macrophotography, and histology. The vertebral deformities were radiographically graded as mild, moderate, or marked. The main differences between these grades of changes were defined by increased curving of the peripheries of endplates, reduced intervertebral spaces, and vertical displacement of the vertebrae. The curved rims of endplates were located peripheral to a continuous and approximately circular borderline. The CT studies revealed small, multifocal, hypo‐attenuating, round to crescent‐shaped areas in the notochord, compatible with the presence of gas. Additionally, histology revealed that the axial parts of endplates had circular zones with perforations, through which either notochordal tissue prolapsed into the vertebrae or vascularized fibrochondroid proliferations extended from the vertebrae into the notochord. Inflammation was present in many vertebral bodies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of gas in the notochord of fish.
Forkhead Box O3a requires BAF57, a subunit of chromatin remodeler SWI/SNF complex for induction of p53 up‐regulated modulator of apoptosis (Puma) in a model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Sanphui Priyankar , Kumar Das Anoy , Biswas Subhas C.
Published: January 2020

Parkinson's disease (PD) results from the selective loss of dopaminergic neurons of substantia nigra pars compacta region of the midbrain. It has been reported that the transcription factor forkhead Box O3a (FoxO3a) is activated and induces pro‐apoptotic protein such as Bcl‐2‐interacting mediator of cell death (BIM) and p53 up‐regulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) in variety of neuron death paradigms. Activity of FoxO3a is governed by its post‐translational modifications which control its subcellular localization. Aim of this study was to determine whether FoxO3a is activated and up‐regulates its pro‐apoptotic genes to induce neuron death in PD. We exposed neuronal PC12 cells or primary cultures of dopaminergic neurons to 6‐hydroxy dopamine (6‐OHDA) and infused 6‐OHDA in rat brain to develop PD models. We found that FoxO3a undergoes multiple post‐translational modifications which render its nuclear localization in dopaminergic neuronal cells in response to 6‐OHDA. The nuclear redistribution of FoxO3a is significantly increased in dopaminergic neurons of 6‐OHDA infused rat brains as well. Moreover, FoxO3a is required for dopaminergic neurodegeneration in response to 6‐OHDA as RNAi‐mediated silencing of FoxO3a protects these cells from 6‐OHDA toxicity. In a search of the downstream targets we identified PUMA as a direct target of FoxO3a. By knocking down FoxO3a we could successfully block the up‐regulation of the pro‐apoptotic protein PUMA in this model. Recently, it has been reported that chromatin remodeler SWItch/sucrose non‐fermentable binds to FOXO and activates transcription. We found that Brg‐associated factor 57 (BAF57), a subclass of SWItch/sucrose non‐fermentable is up‐regulated and play a necessary role in neuron death induced by 6‐OHDA. Moreover, it is required for induction of PUMA by FoxO3a in this cellular model of PD. Taken together, our study suggest that FoxO3a is activated, translocates to nucleus, induces its pro‐apoptotic target PUMA in the presence of chromatin remodeler BAF57 to execute neuron death in cellular models of PD.

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Ontogenetic shape changes in the pelvis of the Greater Rhea (Aves, Palaeognathae) and their relationships with cursorial locomotion: a geometric morphometric approach
Authors: Picasso Mariana B. J. , Monti Ailin , Mosto Maria C. , Morgan Cecilia C.
Published: January 2020

Knowledge of the ontogenetic pattern of morphological features is essential to improve biological interpretations. The study of morphological features of the pelvic girdle and hind limb apparatus throughout growth is an excellent approach to understand how the skeletal morphology and muscles are interrelated during growth in a bird with a specialized mode of locomotion. The Greater Rhea (Rhea americana) is a large cursorial palaeognathous bird with long legs and powerful musculature. The postnatal shape changes of the pelvis of this bird were studied with geometric morphometric techniques, using landmarks and semilandmarks. In addition, regression analyses were used to explore the association between pelvic shape changes with muscle and body mass. The pelvises of 16 specimens of Rhea americana from 1 month old to adulthood were studied in dorsal and lateral views. Noticeable differences in pelvic shape were noted between ages, particularly in lateral view. In young birds, the pre‐ and post‐acetabular ilium was subequal in length, whereas in adults the pre‐acetabular ilium became shorter. In dorsal view, the main shape changes observed were the progressive thinning of both ilium portions and the elongation of the vertex craniolateralis ilii from chicks to adulthood. In this view, the only clear differentiation was between young and adult birds. Shape differences were influenced by body mass and pelvic muscles; the post‐acetabular muscle mass explained the highest percentage of the variation. The specialized locomotion of Greater Rhea is reflected in their pelvic musculoskeletal system, in which the change to a longer post‐acetabular ilium correlates with the growth of the powerful post‐acetabular muscles. The actions of these muscles provide the necessary strength to support the body mass, minimize the body swinging movements and propel the body forward during locomotion. Bone morphology is affected by the forces produced by body mass and the muscle activity, demonstrating the presence of common growth mechanisms, which are primordial and gave rise to a functional and properly proportioned adult.
Intensive critical care nurses' with limited experience: Experiences of caring for an organ donor during the donation process
Authors: Simonsson Johan , Keijzer Karl , Södereld Theres , Forsberg Angelica
Published: January 2020

Objective

To describe how intensive critical care nurses, whose experience is limited, experience caring for an organ donor during the donation process.

Background

Intensive critical care nurses are involved in the care of organ donors and their relatives. This may be challenging and evoke a sense of providing an inhumane care. Few studies have explored how intensive critical care nurses whose experience is limited experience caring for an organ donor during the donation process.

Design

An interview study with an inductive qualitative approach was conducted. The study was reported according to COREQ guidelines.

Methods

This study was performed during 2019. Participants were intensive critical care nurses (n = 7) from different hospitals (n = 4) with <3 years of experience and involvement in the donation process at least once but no more than three times. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Findings

Five categories emerged: the donation process is emotionally challenging; supporting relatives is an essential but demanding task; a complex and multifaceted process involving a high level of responsibility; needing appropriate prerequisites in the form of education and collegial support; and providing a dignified care based on respect for the organ donor.

Conclusions

Having limited experience as an intensive critical care nurse may not automatically mean that caring for an organ donor is experienced as more challenging than it is for a more‐experienced colleague. However, certain intensive critical care nurses whose experience caring for an organ donor is limited found it to be highly demanding due to its complexity, specifically in regard to informing relatives of the loss of their loved one and providing them with support.

Relevance to clinical practice

Our study revealed a need for further education. This need could be met by simulation tasks during the specialist education in intensive critical care nursing, where primarily ethical aspects and strategies for meeting with and supporting relatives should be examined and practiced.
Relationship between critical thinking disposition and research competence among clinical nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chen Qirong , Liu Dan , Zhou Chuyi , Tang Siyuan
Published: January 2020

Aims and Objectives

To explore the relationship between critical thinking disposition and research competence among clinical nurses.

Background

The development of the nursing discipline and evidence‐based practice calls for research competence and critical thinking disposition among clinical nurses. The verification of the relationship between critical thinking disposition and research competence could make contributions to promoting related knowledge building and providing practical implications for nurses, nurse educators and nurse managers. However, there is a lack of evidence exploring the relationship between critical thinking disposition and research competence in clinical nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 156 clinical nurses from two tertiary hospitals participated in this study. The Chinese Version of Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory and Research Competence Scale for Clinical Nurses were used to measure critical thinking disposition and nursing research competence, respectively. Data were collected in September 2017. Descriptive statistics, bivariate correlation and linear regression were used to analyse data. The STROBE checklist was used in reporting this study.

Results

The clinical nurses surveyed showed a positive inclination to general critical thinking but reported an overall low level of nursing research competence. A moderate degree of positive correlation was found between critical thinking disposition and research competence among clinical nurses. Educational degree was also found as an influencing factor of nursing research competence of clinical nurses.

Conclusion

The critical thinking disposition of clinical nurses is positively related to their research competence.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses with a passion for nursing research should pay attention to improving their critical thinking dispositions. Nurse educators and managers should provide better learning, working and research environments and more supports to cultivate critical thinking disposition and improve nursing research competence in nursing research education and practice.
Evaluation of Stress Distribution in Tooth‐Supported Fixed Dental Prostheses Made of Translucent Zirconia with Variations in Framework Designs: A Three‐Dimensional Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Bakitian Fahad , Papia Evaggelia , Larsson Christel , Vult von Steyern Per
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of the framework designs on the stress distribution within tooth‐supported partially veneered fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) made of translucent zirconia under simulated loads using a three‐dimensional finite element analysis (3D‐FEA).

Material and Methods

For a linear 3D‐FEA, simplified 3D solid models of prepared abutment teeth (first premolar and first molar) with different 3‐unit FDPs were created. The models with different FDP designs—monolithic zirconia (control); semi‐monolithic zirconia with 0.3 mm veneer thickness (SM0.3); semi‐monolithic zirconia with 0.5 mm veneer thickness (SM0.5); semi‐monolithic zirconia with 0.5 mm veneer thickness supported with cap design (SMC), and semi‐monolithic zirconia with 0.5 mm veneer thickness supported with wave design (SMW)—were analyzed using 3D‐FEA. The elastic properties of the components (bone, dentine, cement, translucent zirconia, and veneering porcelain) were obtained from the published data for FEA. Simulated static loading forces (300 N) were applied at 10° oblique direction over six points in the occlusal surfaces of the FDPs. Maximum principal stress, shear stress, and safety factor were calculated and analyzed among the different models.

Results

Semi‐monolithic with cap design showed the smallest maximum principal stress levels in the veneering porcelain compared to all other models (SM0.3, SM0.5, SMW). The SM0.3 had lower maximum principal stress levels in the veneering porcelain compared to SM0.5. Regarding stresses in the zirconia framework, all models had comparable results in maximum principal tensile stresses, except SMW had a lower value. Maximum principal stress levels were located in the veneer component of SM0.3, SM0.5, and SMW, whereas, such levels were observed in the cervical areas of the zirconia frameworks of SMC and control. The SM0.3 had the highest maximum shear stress levels at the zirconia‐veneer interface, while SMW had the lowest shear values. The 3D‐FEA models with different FDP designs showed different minimum safety factor levels.

Conclusions

Framework and veneer designs play a significant role in the stress distribution of the partially veneered zirconia FDPs under loading. The FDPs with zirconia frameworks with cap design minimize the maximum principal tensile stress in the veneering porcelain. The FDPs with 0.3‐mm‐veneering porcelain show low maximum principal tensile stress in the veneering porcelain, but highest maximum shear stress at the zirconia‐veneer interface. The FDPs with wave design of zirconia frameworks minimize the maximum shear stress considerably.
Serum procalcitonin concentrations in dogs with induced endotoxemia
Authors: Easley Frankie , Holowaychuk Marie K. , Lashnits Erin W. , Nordone Shila K. , Marr Henry , Birkenheuer Adam J.
Published: January 2020

Background

Procalcitonin (PCT) is an important biomarker for sepsis in human medicine, but there is little information regarding PCT as a biomarker for sepsis in dogs. There are no controlled studies evaluating serial concentrations of PCT in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objective

That PCT would be rapidly detectable in serum after injection of LPS and would remain increased for at least 24 hours. Objective was to evaluate serial serum PCT concentrations in dogs after a single IV injection of LPS compared to placebo.

Animals

Six healthy mixed breed dogs.

Methods

A nonrandomized, placebo‐controlled, crossover study was performed. Dogs were initially injected with placebo (0.9% NaCl; 1 mL, IV) and then experimental endotoxemia was induced by injecting lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 2 μg/kg, IV, once) after a 5‐day washout period. Serial blood samples were collected for measurement of serum PCT after each injection. Difference in median PCT concentration between serial time points was assessed using a mixed effects model.

Results

After LPS administration, blood pressure decreased and body temperature increased along with the development of lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. Procalcitonin was significantly increased compared to baseline by 2 hours after injection of LPS (median = 67.9 versus 172.8, range = 46.0‐74.1 versus 99.5‐295.9, P = .0002) and remained significantly increased for 12 hours (median = 205.9, range = 119.9‐297.4) with return to baseline by 48 hours. Procalcitonin was significantly higher than placebo 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 24 hours after injection. There were no significant differences in PCT between time 0 and any of the subsequent time points in the saline group.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Procalcitonin expression is likely to be a clinically useful biomarker for sepsis in dogs and might have an additional role in prognostication and therapeutic decision‐making.
Inhibitory Control Skills and Language Acquisition in Toddlers and Preschool Children
Authors: Gandolfi Elena , Viterbori Paola
Published: January 2020

In this study, we explored the role of emerging inhibitory control skills in language acquisition in 62 typically developing children aged 24–32 months and investigated whether early inhibitory control skills are longitudinally associated with language outcome. Specifically, we focused on two different inhibitory processes that develop approximately at age 3, namely, response inhibition and interference suppression. At Time 1 children were administered five inhibitory control tasks and a language test; language abilities were also evaluated by means of a parent‐report questionnaire. Receptive morphosyntactic ability was assessed after 1 year (Time 2) in a subsample of 28 children. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis showed that all language production measures at Time 1, as well as later receptive morphosyntactic ability at Time 2, were significantly associated with the interference suppression score, even when early lexical and grammatical measures, age, and mother's education were included in the analysis.