bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volumetric assessment of tissue changes following combined surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis: A pilot study
Authors: Galarraga‐Vinueza Maria Elisa , Obreja Karina , Magini Ricardo , Sculean Anton , Sader Robert , Schwarz Frank
Published: June 2020

Aim

To assess volumetric tissue changes at peri‐implantitis sites following combined surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis over a 6‐month follow‐up period.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients (n = 28 implants) diagnosed with peri‐implantitis underwent access flap surgery, implantoplasty at supracrestally or bucally exposed implant surfaces and augmentation at intra‐bony components using a natural bone mineral and application of a native collagen membrane during clinical routine treatments. The peri‐implant region of interest (ROI) was intra‐orally scanned pre‐operatively (S0), and after 1 (S1) and 6 (S2) months following surgical therapy. Digital files were converted to standard tessellation language (STL) format for superimposition and assessment of peri‐implant volumetric variations between time points. The change in thickness was assessed at a standardized ROI, subdivided into three equidistant sections (i.e. marginal, medial and apical). Peri‐implant soft tissue contour area (STCA) (mm2) and its corresponding contraction rates (%) were also assessed.

Results

Peri‐implant tissues revealed a mean thickness change (loss) of −0.11 and −0.28 mm at 1 and 6 months. S0 to S1 volumetric variations pointed to a thickness change of −0.46, 0.08 and 0.4 mm at marginal, medial and apical regions, respectively. S0 to S2 analysis exhibited corresponding thickness changes of −0.61, −0.25 and −0.09 mm, respectively. The thickness differences between the areas were statistically significant at both time periods. The mean peri‐implant STCA totalled to 189.2, 175 and 158.9 mm2at S0, S1 and S2, showing a significant STCA contraction rate of 7.9% from S0 to S1 and of 18.5% from S0 to S2. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between the pre‐operative width of keratinized mucosa (KM) and STCA contraction rate.

Conclusions

The peri‐implant mucosa undergoes considerable volumetric changes after combined surgical therapy. However, tissue contraction appears to be influenced by the width of KM.
3D computer‐aided treatment planning in periodontology: A novel approach for evaluation and visualization of soft tissue thickness
Authors: Kuralt Marko , Gašperšič Rok , Fidler Aleš
Published: June 2020

Objective

Current approaches for soft tissue thickness evaluation and visualization still represent a challenge for full extent evaluation and visualization. The aim of this clinical technique article is to introduce a novel approach for comprehensive visualization and precise evaluation of oral soft tissue thickness utilizing a fusion of optical 3D and cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.

Clinical considerations

3D models of the maxilla were obtained by CBCT imaging and intraoral scanning. The CBCT images were reconstructed to standard tessellation language (STL) file format models by segmentation of teeth and bone using implants planning software. 3D soft tissues and teeth models were obtained by intraoral scanning and were exported in STL file format as well. 3D multimodal models were then superimposed using best‐fit matching on teeth. Soft tissue thickness was then visualized and evaluated with a 3D color‐coded thickness map of gingival and palatal areas created by surface comparison of both 3D models. Additionally, threshold color‐coding was used to increase comprehensibility. Palatal areas were further visualized and evaluated for the optimal donor site.

Conclusions

A novel approach for 3D evaluation and visualization of masticatory mucosa thickness presents all available 3D data in a comprehensible, “clinician‐friendly” manner, using threshold regions and clinically relevant views.

Clinical significance

Proposed approach could provide comprehensive presurgical treatment planning in periodontal plastic surgery and implantology without additional invasive procedures for the patient, resulting in more predictable treatment, improved outcomes, and reduced risk for complications.
Glutamate synthase 1 is involved in iron‐deficiency response and long‐distance transportation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Cui Man , Gu Mengjun , Lu Yaru , Zhang Yue , Chen Chunlin , Ling Hong‐Qing , Wu Huilan
Published: June 2020

Iron is an essential microelement for plant growth. After uptake from the soil, iron is chelated by ligands and translocated from roots to shoots for subsequent utilization. However, the number of ligands involved in iron chelation is unclear. In this study, we identified and demonstrated that GLU1, which encodes a ferredoxin‐dependent glutamate synthase, was involved in iron homeostasis. First, the expression of GLU1 was strongly induced by iron deficiency condition. Second, lesion of GLU1 results in reduced transcription of many iron‐deficiency‐responsive genes in roots and shoots. The mutant plants revealed a decreased iron concentration in the shoots, and displayed severe leaf chlorosis under the condition of Fe limitation, compared to wild‐type. Third, the product of GLU1, glutamate, could chelate iron in vivo and promote iron transportation. Last, we also found that supplementation of glutamate in the medium can alleviate cadmium toxicity in plants. Overall, our results provide evidence that GLU1 is involved in iron homeostasis through affecting glutamate synthesis under iron deficiency conditions in Arabidopsis.
Muscle–tendon arrangement and innervation pattern of the m. flexor digitorum superficialis in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) and spider monkey (Ateles sp.)
Authors: Emura Kenji , Hirasaki Eishi , Arakawa Takamitsu
Published: June 2020

The muscle–tendon arrangement of the m. flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) varies among different primate groups. Recent developmental investigations revealed that the primordium of FDS emerges in the hand region first and relocates to the forearm later. The relationship between the diverse muscle–tendon arrangement and the characteristic developmental process of FDS is important for understanding the evolutionary changes of the FDS. Moreover, the innervation pattern cannot go unremarked when discussing the muscle homology and evolution. We examined the muscle–tendon arrangement and intramuscular nerve distribution of the FDS in three genera of Platyrrhini: three common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus), two squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) and two spider monkeys (Ateles sp.). We observed that the FDS consisted of multiple muscle bellies. The origin of the muscle bellies to digits II and V varied, whereas muscle bellies to digits III and IV consistently originated from the medial epicondyle. The muscle–tendon arrangement of the FDS differed among the three genera owing to the different origins of muscle bellies to digits II and V. In all the examined specimens, the muscle bellies to digits II and/or III were innervated by the direct nerve branches from the median nerve. However, the muscle bellies to digits IV and V never received direct nerve branches from the median nerve. Nerve branches within the belly to digit III extended into the belly to digit IV, and one nerve branch within the belly to digit IV extended into the belly to digit V. These consistent nerve distribution patterns suggest that different patterns of FDS muscle–tendon arrangement have changed from that of a common ancestral condition. It is plausible that the diverse origins of muscle bellies in the FDS are attributable to the difference in the destination for the relocation of the muscle bellies during developmental processes.
Cranial trepanation and healing process in modern patients—Bioarchaeological and anthropological implications
Authors: Partiot Caroline , Lepetit Aliénor , Dodré Emilie , Jenger Camille , Maureille Bruno , Liguoro Dominique , Thomas Aline
Published: June 2020

The diagnosis of cranial trepanation in the archaeological record has always been a big challenge for archaeologists. The identification is first and foremost based on the shape and edges of the opening, and in cases where the individual survived, the shape and edges resulted from both the surgical procedure and the healing process. Because of the lack of reliable data on the osseous remodelling process of the skull, it is difficult to distinguish true trepanations from some pathological or physiological defects called pseudotrepanations. Furthermore, it is challenging to investigate the post‐operative survival time. The purpose of this paper was to summarize observations made on a total of 90 archaeological samples of cranial lesions interpreted as ‘partially’ or ‘completely’ healed trepanations, and compare them with 14 modern case studies. Observations made on monitoring post‐operative scans of modern patients, at varying times after craniotomy, provided a preliminary timetable for the successive post‐surgery bony changes in the skull, and confirmed that the process of osseous remodelling does lead to smooth and rounded edges of the profile of the opening. However, contrary to what has been observed in several archaeological case studies, none of the cases shows a complete closure of the cranial vault. The sharp vertical edges of the opening become bevelled at late stages of healing, which has to be taken into consideration when interpreting the procedures and methods in past population. By bridging bioarchaeology and medical sciences, this study adds to previous discussions on the diagnosis of healed trepanation in the archaeological record, by providing detailed descriptions of morphological changes at various healing stages, that may help archaeologists to identify ancient trepanations more accurately.
Dermatologic management of oncotherapy side effects: A proposed algorithm
Authors: Carlesimo Marta , Pigliacelli Flavia , D’Arino Andrea , Caro Gemma , Fortuna Maria Caterina , Rossi Alfredo
Published: June 2020

Since the introduction of the first chemotherapeutic regimens for the treatment of oncological disease, hundreds of drugs have been approved for cancer treatment and many more are under investigation. The development of newer drugs such as target therapies, immuno‐oncotherapies, and hormonal therapies has increased in specificity with the development of smaller molecules and more selective targets. Cutaneous side effects are now well known for both standard chemotherapy and targeted therapies. The correct diagnosis and management of these effects are of vital importance both to optimize therapeutic success rates and to reduce the patient's suffering. In fact, the appearance of a cutaneous adverse event can be responsible for a reduction in drug dosage or worse its suspension. In order to achieve this objective, we propose a management algorithm, based on three different steps, before, during, and after the oncological treatments, respectively. Our proposal underlines the importance of correct skin care measures to limit or reduce the severity of side effects.
First trimester placental volume and vascular indices in pregestational diabetic compared to nondiabetic pregnant women
Authors: Elhelaly Amr M. , Elnaggar Ahmed K. , Mohamed Magd El Din M. , Abdelfattah Mahmoud H. , Farag Amr H.
Published: June 2020

Aim

Comparing placental volume (PV) and vascular indices in pregestational diabetic and nondiabetic pregnant women at 11 and 13 weeks gestation.

Methods

A case–control study conducted at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital in collaboration with Feto‐maternal Unit for Ultrasound Assessment, Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital, Egypt. Ninety‐two pregnant women divided into two groups: Group A included 46 women with pregestational diabetes mellitus and group B included 46 nondiabetic pregnant women as control. All participants had PV, vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI) and vascularization flow index (VFI) calculated using three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasonography and 3D power Doppler at 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.

Results

At 11 weeks, the mean VI, FI and VFI in diabetic group (17.70 ± 12.62, 40.72 ± 11.03 and 7.77 ± 6.37, respectively) were insignificantly higher than in nondiabetic group (12.14 ± 12.62, 34.59 ± 9.66 and 6.52 ± 14.20, respectively) while mean PV in diabetic group (26.90 ± 14.74) was insignificantly lower than in nondiabetic group (27.53 ± 17.46). Also at 13 weeks, the results were not different as the mean VI, FI and VFI in diabetic group (16.51 ± 9.81, 42.52 ± 7.47 and 8.12 ± 7.55, respectively) were insignificantly higher than in nondiabetic group (16.37 ± 14.17, 40.29 ± 17.52 and 7.08 ± 4.35, respectively), and mean PV in diabetic group (52.04 ± 17.95) was insignificantly lower than in nondiabetic group (54.46 ± 17.85). There was strong positive correlation between HbA1C level and VFI measured at 13 weeks gestation.

Conclusions

Placental indices in early pregnancy do not seem to be useful markers to anticipate placental pathology in pregestational diabetes, however there might be a role for HbA1C level measurement to anticipate such complications.
The effect of reclining position on swallowing function in stroke patients with dysphagia
Authors: Benjapornlert Paitoon , Kagaya Hitoshi , Inamoto Yoko , Mizokoshi Eriko , Shibata Seiko , Saitoh Eiichi
Published: June 2020

Background

Dysphagia is a common problem in patients with a history of stroke. In Japan, a reclined position is commonly used as a compensatory technique to address this problem.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of reclined position on swallowing function in patients with stroke who had dysphagia.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was carried out on the videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing (VF) of 4ml honey‐thick liquid swallows collected over 9 years. Penetration‐aspiration scale (PAS) and residue scores were compared for the following: a body position at 90° upright (90°U) and 60° reclining (60°R) groups, as well as 60°R and 45° reclining (45°R) groups.

Results

Two hundred and five records from 98 subjects were reviewed. These included patients with ischaemic stroke (62%), haemorrhagic stroke (32%) and subarachnoid haemorrhage (6%). PAS scores were lower when the body was in a more reclined position (P < .001). The amount of residue in the valleculae and pyriform sinus also reduced in the more reclined position (P < .001). The deeper bolus head at swallowing onset was positively correlated with severe PAS (P < .001).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that in patients with stroke who had dysphagia, a reclined position may be useful in reducing the risk of penetration and aspiration, and in decreasing the amount of residue in the pharyngeal area. The depth of the bolus head at the onset of swallowing increases the severity of penetration and aspiration.
Dietary regimen of the woodpigeon (Columba palumbus)
Authors: Negrier Coralie , Fantinati Marco , Jouglar Jean‐Yves , Lyazrhi Faouzi , Cohou Valérie , Priymenko Nathalie
Published: June 2020

Recently, new agricultural policies and European Directives brought to important changes in farming practice, some of which could affect food availability for the wild bird population endangering biodiversity. This study aims to evaluate the consequences of such agricultural changes in France on the woodpigeon's dietary regimen. A total of 1,093 woodpigeons were collected over a four‐year period (2014–2017). Voluntary sampling was performed in six regions in the south‐west of France by local hunters during this species’ autumnal migration and wintering. Ingluvies contents were recovered, macroscopically and microscopically identified, and then weighed before and after drying. Five food groups were identified: acorns, corn, green plant material, cultivated seeds and others. ANOVA testing followed by Tukey's test for multiple comparison were performed (R version 3.5.2). Significance was set at p < .05. A total of 762 woodpigeons met the study's inclusion criteria. Mean weight of total crop contents was less of 9 grams of dry matter. Most frequent food groups were “green plant material” (70.3%), acorns (42.3%) and corn (27.2%). In terms of grams of dry matter, the most important food in the crop content were acorns (62%): these were eaten more during the first two hunting seasons (p < .001), and in region A, lower amount was consumed compared to all other regions. On the contrary, corn intake peaked during the third year (p < .001), and in region A, birds had an increasing intake of this cereal. Cultivated seeds contributed to the diet more during migration (p = .007), while “green plant material” and others more during wintering (p = .011; p = .004). In conclusion, results confirm the opportunistic nature of the woodpigeon, balancing its diet according to food availability. Corn was eaten more in areas where the winter burying of chopped maize stover (mulching), provided by the Nitrate's directive, was in derogation.
Relationship between ultrasonographically determined renal dimensions and International Renal Interest Society stages in cats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Yan Gong‐Yi , Chen Kuan‐Yo , Wang Hsien‐Chi , Ma Tzu‐Yi , Chen Kuan‐Sheng
Published: June 2020

Background

The correlation between renal dimensions and renal function in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unclear.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To investigate the relationship between renal dimensions and CKD severity in cats using ultrasound examination.

Animals

Nineteen healthy cats and 30 cats with CKD.

Methods

Renal ultrasound images obtained between 2012 and 2016 were reviewed. Severity of CKD was determined using the International Renal Interest Society CKD staging system. Renal length, cortical thickness, medullary thickness, and corticomedullary ratio were measured, and the relationship between these renal dimensions and serum creatinine concentrations as well as differences in dimensions between the control and disease groups was investigated. The sensitivity and specificity of the renal dimensions for differentiation of the CKD also were evaluated.

Results

The disease group was subdivided into stage I to II (15 cats) and stage III to IV (15 cats) groups. Cortical thickness was significantly decreased in both disease groups and negatively correlated with disease severity. Compared with other renal dimensions, cortical thickness had a stronger linear correlation with the reciprocal of the serum creatinine concentration and superior diagnostic performance (Youden index: left kidney, 90.0% sensitivity and 94.7% specificity for a cutoff of 4.7 mm; right kidney, 83.3% sensitivity and 94.7% specificity for a cutoff of 4.5 mm).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Decreased renal cortical thickness is observed in cats with loss of renal function. Measurement of cortical thickness using ultrasonography could be a useful method to evaluate the progression of CKD in cats.
Effect of digital hypothermia on lamellar inflammatory signaling in the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp laminitis model
Authors: Stokes Simon M. , Burns Teresa A. , Watts Mauria R. , Bertin François‐René , Stefanovski Darko , Medina‐Torres Carlos E. , Belknap James K. , van Eps Andrew W.
Published: June 2020

Background

Continuous digital hypothermia (CDH) prevents lamellar failure in the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp (EHC) model of laminitis, but the protective mechanisms are unclear.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine if CDH inhibits lamellar inflammatory signaling in the EHC model of laminitis.

Animals

Eight Standardbred horses.

Methods

Prospective experimental study. Horses underwent an EHC, with 1 forelimb treated with CDH and the other kept at ambient temperature (AMB). Horses were euthanized 48 hours after initiation of the EHC and lamellar tissue was analyzed via polymerase chain reaction (pro‐inflammatory cytokine and chemokine genes—CXCL1, CXCL6, CXCL8, IL‐6, MCP‐1, MCP‐2, IL‐1β, IL‐11, cyclooxygenase 1 and 2, tumour necrosis factor‐alpha [TNF‐α], E‐selectin, and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 [ICAM‐1]) and immunoblotting (phosphorylated and total signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 [STAT1] and STAT3).

Results

Compared to AMB, lamellar messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) concentrations of CXCL6 (P =.02), CXCL8 (P = .008), IL‐6 (P = .008), IL‐1β (P = .008), IL‐11 (P = .008), and cyclooxygenase‐2 (P = .008) were decreased in CDH. Cyclooxygenase‐1 (P = .008) was increased in CDH, while CXCL1 (P = .15), MCP‐1 (P = .05), MCP‐2 (P = .46), TNF‐α (P = .05), E‐selectin (P = .15), and ICAM‐1 (P = .15) mRNA were not significantly different. Compared to AMB, lamellar concentration of total STAT3 protein was decreased in CDH (P < .001), but there was no change in phosphorylated STAT3 (P‐STAT3 [S727] P = .19; P‐STAT3 [Y705] P = .05). There was no change in lamellar concentrations of total STAT1 (P = .75) or phosphorylated STAT1 (P‐STAT1 [S727], P = .25; P‐STAT1 [Y701], P = .64).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

These data add further support for the use of CDH as a first aid treatment for severe acute laminitis associated with hyperinsulinemia in horses.
Effects of rearing density on growth, physiological responses, and flesh quality in juvenile cobia (Rachycentron canadum)
Authors: Silva Victor A. , Trushenski Jesse , Schwarz Michael H. , Cavalli Ronaldo O.
Published: June 2020

Rearing density is recognized as a critical consideration in fish husbandry: whereas higher densities may increase productivity and reduce production costs, they also represent a potential source of chronic stress and may negatively affect growth performance and product quality. Accordingly, we investigated the effects of rearing density on growth, physiological responses, and flesh quality of cobia (Rachycentron canadum). Fish (46.32 ± 0.22 g, mean ± SEM) were reared for 42 days in a low salinity (17.6 g/L) recirculation system according to treatments designated as low density (5 fish/tank, 3.30 ± 0.02 kg/m3), medium density (10 fish/tank, 6.67 ± 0.03 kg/m3), or high density (20 fish/tank, 13.15 ± 0.16 kg/m3). Weight gain and specific growth rate were significantly higher among fish reared at low density; however, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, hepatosomatic index, condition factor, and dress‐out were equivalent among treatments. Plasma cortisol, lactate, and osmolality levels were not affected by rearing density, and values were within basal ranges reported for juvenile cobia. Fillet drip‐loss did not vary among treatments, but rigor mortis developed more rapidly among fish reared at high density. Rearing juvenile cobia at high densities may reduce growth performance and may influence the timing of rigor development.
Sleeping Eurasian oystercatchers adjust their vigilance in response to the behaviour of neighbours, human disturbance and environmental conditions
Authors: McBlain M. , Jones K. A. , Shannon G.
Published: June 2020

Vigilance is a costly behaviour but it enables animals to detect and avoid threats of predation and intraspecific competition. To compensate for the increased risk while sleeping, many bird species have evolved eye‐blinking strategies called peeking, which allows vigilance to persist in a sleep‐like state. However, the drivers of vigilance behaviour during sleep have rarely been explored. We investigated how social factors, anthropogenic disturbance and environmental conditions affected the sleep‐vigilance trade‐off in the Eurasian oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus). Data were collected on the frequency, total duration and average duration of peeking at two locations on the Menai Strait, North Wales. Our results reveal that exposure to anthropogenic disturbance, particularly the presence of people exercising dogs, led to an increase in vigilance duration and reduced time sleeping, while increasing boat traffic resulted in elevated levels of peek frequency, but the overall duration of vigilance was in fact reduced. Furthermore, oystercatchers adjust their vigilance behaviour according to social context, with reduced levels of individual vigilance when a greater number of animals were present. However, if surrounding neighbours were awake – then the observed animal was more likely to be alert, demonstrating the importance of monitoring the behaviour of conspecifics. Likewise, the temperature and wind speed influenced vigilance with elevated levels of peek frequency observed in warmer and windier conditions. Oystercatchers are able to make fine‐scale adjustments to their vigilance behaviour while asleep, which reduces the risk of external threats such as predators. Nevertheless, they are making these decisions against the backdrop of a finely balanced energy budget, particularly during the winter months. Increased levels of human activity and disturbance may elevate the costs of vigilance and ultimately have fitness implications for this species.
COVID‐19‐associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) in patients admitted with severe COVID‐19 pneumonia: An observational study from Pakistan
Authors: Nasir Nosheen , Farooqi Joveria , Mahmood Syed Faisal , Jabeen Kauser
Published: June 2020

Background

Invasive aspergillosis is a well‐known complication of severe influenza pneumonia with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, recent studies are reporting emergence of aspergillosis in severe COVID‐19 pneumonia, named as COVID‐19‐associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA).

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients with severe COVID‐19 pneumonia from February 2020 to April 2020. Patients ≥18 years of age with clinical features and abnormal chest imaging with confirmed COVID‐19 by RT‐PCR for SARS‐CoV‐2 were included. CAPA was diagnosed based on clinical parameters, radiological findings and mycological data. Data were recorded on a structured proforma, and descriptive analysis was performed using Stata ver 12.1.

Results

A total of 147 patients with confirmed COVID‐19 and 23 (15.6%) patients requiring ICU admission were identified. Aspergillus species were isolated from tracheal aspirates of nine (39.1%) patients, and of these, five patients (21.7%) were diagnosed with CAPA and four (17.4%) had Aspergillus colonisation. The mean age of patients with CAPA was 69 years (Median age: 71, IQR: 24, Range: 51‐85), and 3/5 patients were male. The most frequent co‐morbid was diabetes mellitus (4/5). The overall fatality rate of COVID‐19 patients with aspergillosis was 44% (4/9). The cause of death was ARDS in all three patients with CAPA, and the median length of stay was 16 days (IQR: 10; Range 6‐35 days).

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for comparative studies to establish whether there is an association of aspergillosis and COVID‐19 and the need for screening for fungal infections in severe COVID‐19 patients with certain risk factors.
New insights into the functions of carbon–calcium inclusions in plants
Authors: Karabourniotis George , Horner Harry T. , Bresta Panagiota , Nikolopoulos Dimosthenis , Liakopoulos Georgios
Published: June 2020

Carbon–calcium inclusions (CCaI) either as calcium oxalate crystals (CaOx) or amorphous calcium carbonate cystoliths are spread among most photosynthetic organisms. They represent dynamic structures with a significant construction cost and their appearance during evolution indicates an ancient origin. Both types of inclusions share some similar functional characteristics providing adaptive advantages such as the regulation of Ca levels, and the release of CO2 and water molecules upon decomposition. The latter seems to be essential under drought conditions and explains the intense occurrence of these structures in plants thriving in dry climates. It seems, however, that for plants CaOx may represent a more prevalent storage system compared with CaCO3 due to the multifunctionality of oxalate. This compound participates in a number of important soil biogeochemical processes, creates endosymbiosis with beneficial bacteria and provides tolerance against a combination of abiotic (nutrient deprivation, metal toxicity) and biotic (pathogens, herbivores) stress factors. We suggest a re‐evaluation of the roles of these fascinating plant structures under a new and holistic approach that could enhance our understanding of carbon sequestration at the whole plant level and provide future perspectives.
Atopic dermatitis severity during exposure to air pollutants and weather changes with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) analysis
Authors: Patella Vincenzo , Florio Giovanni , Palmieri Mario , Bousquet Jean , Tonacci Alessandro , Giuliano Ada , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: June 2020

Background

Epidemiological studies have shown an association between global warming, air pollution, and allergic diseases. Several air pollutants, including volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, toluene, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter, act as risk factors for the development or aggravation of atopic dermatitis (AD). We evaluated the impact of air pollutants and weather changes on AD patients.

Materials and Methods

Sixty AD patients ≥5 years of age (mean age: 23.5 ± 12.5 years), living in the Campania Region (Southern Italy), were followed for 18 months. The primary outcome was the effect of atmospheric and climatic factors on signs and symptoms of AD, assessed using the SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis) index. We measured mean daily temperature (TOD), outdoor relative humidity (RH), diurnal temperature range (DTR), precipitation, particulate with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM10), NO2, tropospheric ozone (O3), and total pollen count (TPC). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the associations of AD signs and symptoms with these factors. An artificial neural network (ANN) analysis investigated the relationships between weather changes, environmental pollutants, and AD severity.

Results

The severity of AD symptoms was positively correlated with outdoor temperatures (TOD, DTR), RH, precipitation, PM10, NO2, O3, and TPC. The ANN analysis also showed a good discrimination performance (75.46%) in predicting disease severity based on environmental pollution data, but weather‐related factors were less predictive.

Conclusion

The results of the present study provide evidence that weather changes and air pollutions have a significant impact on skin reactivity and symptoms in AD patients, increasing the severity of the dermatitis. The knowledge of the single variables proportion on AD severity symptoms is important to propose alerts for exacerbations in patients with AD of each age. This finding represents a good starting point for further future research in an area of increasingly growing interest.
GeSUT4 mediates sucrose import at the symbiotic interface for carbon allocation of heterotrophic Gastrodia elata (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Ho Li‐Hsuan , Lee Yung‐I , Hsieh Shu‐Ying , Lin I‐Shiuan , Wu Yun‐Chien , Ko Han‐Yu , Klemens Patrick A. , Neuhaus H. Ekkehard , Chen Yi‐Min , Huang Tzu‐Pi , Yeh Chih‐Hsin , Guo Woei‐Jiun
Published: June 2020

Gastrodia elata, a fully mycoheterotrophic orchid without photosynthetic ability, only grows symbiotically with the fungus Armillaria. The mechanism of carbon distribution in this mycoheterotrophy is unknown. We detected high sucrose concentrations in all stages of Gastrodia tubers, suggesting sucrose may be the major sugar transported between fungus and orchid. Thick symplasm‐isolated wall interfaces in colonized and adjacent large cells implied involvement of sucrose importers. Two sucrose transporter (SUT)‐like genes, GeSUT4 and GeSUT3, were identified that were highly expressed in young Armillaria‐colonized tubers. Yeast complementation and isotope tracer experiments confirmed that GeSUT4 functioned as a high‐affinity sucrose‐specific proton‐dependent importer. Plasma‐membrane/tonoplast localization of GeSUT4‐GFP fusions and high RNA expression of GeSUT4 in symbiotic and large cells indicated that GeSUT4 likely functions in active sucrose transport for intercellular allocation and intracellular homeostasis. Transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing GeSUT4 had larger leaves but were sensitive to excess sucrose and roots were colonized with fewer mutualistic Bacillus, supporting the role of GeSUT4 in regulating sugar allocation. This is not only the first documented carbon import system in a mycoheterotrophic interaction but also highlights the evolutionary importance of sucrose transporters for regulation of carbon flow in all types of plant‐microbe interactions.
Genomic profiling of multiple primary cancers including synchronous lung adenocarcinoma and bilateral malignant mesotheliomas: Identification of a novel BAP1 germline variant
Authors: Shinozaki‐Ushiku Aya , Kohsaka Shinji , Kage Hidenori , Oda Katsutoshi , Miyagawa Kiyoshi , Nakajima Jun , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Mano Hiroyuki , Ushiku Tetsuo
Published: June 2020

We report a case with a rare combination of synchronous lung adenocarcinoma and bilateral malignant pleural mesotheliomas in a 70‐year‐old male without asbestos exposure. He metachronously developed peritoneal malignant mesothelioma, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and prostatic adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry revealed complete loss of BAP1 expression in all seven lesions. Targeted next generation sequencing using Todai OncoPanel identified a novel germline variant (c.1565_1566del, p.P522Rfs*14) of BAP1. Additionally, different nonsynonymous somatic mutations of BAP1 were identified in four lesions including lung adenocarcinoma, malignant pleural and peritoneal mesotheliomas, and bladder cancer. The remaining two lesions had different somatic mutations in genes other than BAP1. Multiple BAP1‐deficient cancers that developed in a single patient suggest the newly identified germline variant of BAP1 gene to be pathogenic and this case expands the clinical spectrum of BAP1‐tumor predisposition syndrome. Screening for BAP1 status is highly recommended in cases with a similar combination of cancers.
“Active” and “passive” ecological restoration strategies in meta‐analysis
Authors: Atkinson Joe , Bonser Stephen P.
Published: June 2020

One of the means of creating a more robust methodology for ecological restoration involves reducing the gap between ecological theory and restoration practices. A common strategy to do so is using meta‐analysis to understand key drivers of restoration outcomes. “Active” and “passive” is a dichotomy often used to separate restoration strategies in such meta‐analyses. We investigate previously raised concerns about selection bias and subjective categorization of strategies. We promote a paired experimental design in future empirical research and propose the use of three categories of restoration strategy in lieu of “passive” and “active” to alleviate inconsistency in definitions and categorization.
Integrated climate sensitive restoration framework for transformative changes to sustainable land restoration
Authors: Dhyani Shalini , Bartlett Debbie , Kadaverugu Rakesh , Dasgupta Rajarshi , Pujari Paras , Verma Parikshit
Published: June 2020

Sustainable land restoration is the key to restore degraded land, halt biodiversity loss, and reinstate ecosystem services for human well‐being. Restoration needs to be planned and conducted with due recognition to growing climate uncertainty with an evolved understanding of the future restoration targets. The present opinion article attempts to provide an overview on an integrated climate sensitive restoration framework that recognizes the local participation in mapping degraded lands, identification of species for supporting species modeling to better understand climate uncertainty. Involvement of citizen science‐based restoration monitoring tools can contribute to big data analytics for ecological monitoring and policy support. The Framework potentially helps in sustainable land restoration by transformative changes for achieving the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), Sustainable Development Goals 15, and addressing the post‐2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. However, to realize success, climate finance mechanisms to drive restoration should be seriously considered for reducing bias and enhancing opportunities of equitable sharing in the era of corruption, authoritarianism, and regulatory capture.
Relation between sex hormones and leucocyte telomere length in men with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Fang Chuling , Huang Hui , Zhang Qian , Wang Na , Jing Xiaoyan , Guo Jian , Ferianc Martin , Xu Zuojun
Published: June 2020

Background and objective

IPF is an ageing‐related lung disorder featuring progressive lung scarring. IPF patients are frequently identified with short telomeres but coding mutations in telomerase can only explain a minority of cases. Sex hormones regulate telomerase activity in vitro and levels of sex hormones are related to LTL. The objective of this study was to explore whether sex hormones were associated with LTL, whether they interacted with genetic variants in telomerase and whether polymorphisms in the exon of androgen metabolism genes were associated with plasma testosterone concentrations in male IPF patients.

Methods

A case–control study was performed on 101 male IPF subjects and 51 age‐matched healthy controls. Early morning plasma sex hormones were quantified, and whole‐exome sequencing was used to identify rare protein‐altering variants of telomerase and SNP in the exon of androgen metabolism genes. LTL was analysed by PCR and expressed as a T/S ratio.

Results

LTL, testosterone and DHT were decreased significantly in the IPF group. After adjustments for age and variant status in telomerase‐related genes, only testosterone was positively associated with LTL (P = 0.001). No significant interaction (P = 0.661) was observed between rare protein‐altering variants of telomerase and testosterone. No coding SNP in androgen metabolism genes were significantly associated with testosterone concentrations.

Conclusion

Plasma testosterone is associated with LTL independent of age or rare protein‐altering variants of telomerase. No genetic variations of androgen‐related pathway genes are associated with androgen concentrations. Further studies are warranted to examine whether hormonal interventions might retard telomere loss in male IPF patients.
External Set‐Merge of Heads and Composite Probing: the Case of Locative Inversion in English and Chinese1
Authors: Chou Chao‐Ting Tim
Published: June 2020

The goal of this paper is three‐fold. First, adopting Chomsky's (2013, 2015) Merge‐α model of syntactic derivation, I advance the hypothesis that composite probing (Coon & Bale 2014; van Urk 2015) is made available in English and Chinese to derive locative inversion via external set‐Merge of C and T, forming {C, T} (see also Saito 2012 and Epstein et al. 2016). Second, I argue that English {C, T} hosts a non‐selective Ā‐probe, whereas the Chinese counterpart a relativized one. Importantly, I propose that this crosslinguistic contrast in the non‐selective/relativized nature of a composite probe is deducible from the articulated structure in the left periphery and external set‐Merge of heads. Third, what is crucial for the Merge‐α model is the set of independent principles that regulate the generative capacity of free Merge by examining its varied outputs. I contend that the need of Case valuation onDPs, the activity of the φ‐probe, and the Intervention Constraint all play crucial roles in English to exclude some structures built based on the introduction of {C, T} and its composite probe. Couched in the Merge‐α framework, this paper suggests a new way to restrictively model the variation in A/Ā properties of movement across languages and across individual constructions language‐internally. The proposed approach derives the relevant variation without stipulating construction‐specific mechanisms or a variation in the nature of probes — the variation comes from the C‐heads that merge with T prior to probing and how it interacts with independent syntactic principles.
The effect of surgery on lymphoscintigraphy drainage patterns from the canine brachium in a simulated tumor model
Authors: Hlusko Katelyn C. , Cole Robert , Tillson David Michael , Boothe Harry W. , Almond Greg T. , Coggeshall Whitney S. , Matz Brad M.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of surgery on lymphoscintigraphy drainage patterns from the canine brachium.

Study design

Experimental study.

Animals

Eight healthy research beagles.

Methods

A predefined area of skin measuring 2 × 1.5 cm in dimension was designated on either the right or left brachium. Preoperative lymphoscintigraphy was performed with technetium sulfur colloid injected into the subcutaneous tissues around the predefined anatomic location in a four‐quadrant technique. Dogs underwent surgery for excision of the predefined area of skin, subcutis, and fascia of the lateral head of the triceps muscle with 1‐cm margins. Eighteen days after surgery, lymphoscintigraphy was again performed with technetium sulfur colloid injected into the subcutaneous tissues around the surgical scar in a four‐quadrant technique.

Results

Sentinel lymph nodes were identified in eight of eight dogs preoperatively and in eight of eight dogs postoperatively. Agreement between the results of the preoperative and postoperative lymphoscintigraphy studies was identified as complete in four of eight dogs and partial in four of eight dogs. Sentinel lymph node identification occurred immediately in three of eight dogs preoperatively and in eight of eight dogs postoperatively.

Conclusion

Sentinel lymph node identification occurred faster postoperatively. Agreement or partial agreement between the results of the preoperative and postoperative lymphoscintigraphy studies was observed in eight of eight dogs.

Clinical significance

Surgery appears to have an effect on lymphoscintigraphy drainage patterns. Additional studies are required to compare preoperative and postoperative sentinel lymph node mapping patterns in tumor‐bearing dogs. However, this study provides preliminary information regarding the effect of surgery on sentinel lymph node identification.
Correlations of Permeability and Geological Characteristics Based on Mercury Intrusion Data and Hierarchical Statistical Models: A Case Study
Authors: Li Zihao , Gao Wenyu , Li Xiangming
Published: June 2020

The mercury intrusion technique is a crucial in-lab method to investigate the porous medium properties. The potentiality of mercury intrusion data has not been explored significantly in the traditional interpretation. Thus, a hierarchical statistical model that not only captures the quantitative relationship between petrophysical properties but also accounts for different geological members is developed to interpret mercury intrusion data. This multilevel model is established from almost 800 samples with specific geological characteristics. We distinguish the fixed effects and the random effects in this mixed model. The overall connection between the selected petrophysical parameters is described by the fixed effects at a higher level, while variations due to different geological members are accommodated as the random effects at a lower level. The selected petrophysical parameters are observed through hypothesis testing and model selection. In this case study, five petrophysical parameters are selected into the model. Essential visualizations are also provided to assist the interpretations of the probabilistically model. The final model reveals the quantitative relationship between permeability and other petrophysical properties in each member and the order of relative importance for each property. With this studied relationship and advanced model, the geological reservoir simulation can be greatly detailed and accurate in the future.
High resolution three-dimensional beam radiation pattern of harbour porpoise clicks with implications for passive acoustic monitoring
Authors: Macaulay Jamie D. J. , Malinka Chloe E. , Gillespie Douglas , Madsen Peter T.
Published: June 2020

The source properties and radiation patterns of animal vocalisations define, along with propagation and noise conditions, the active space in which these vocalisations can be detected by conspecifics, predators, prey, and by passive acoustic monitoring (PAM). This study reports the 4π (360° horizontal and vertical) beam profile of a free-swimming, trained harbour porpoise measured using a 27-element hydrophone array. The forward echolocation beam is highly directional, as predicted by a piston model, and is consistent with previous measurements. However, at off-axis angles greater than ±30°, the beam attenuates more rapidly than the piston model and no side lobes are present. A diffuse back beam is also present with levels about −30 dB relative to the source level. In PAM, up to 50% of detections can be from portions of the beam profile with distorted click spectra, although this drops substantially for higher detection thresholds. Simulations of the probability of acoustically detecting a harbour porpoise show that a traditional piston model can underestimate the probability of detection compared to the actual three-dimensional radiation pattern documented here. This highlights the importance of empirical 4π measurements of beam profiles of toothed whales, both to improve understanding of toothed whale biology and to inform PAM.
Efficacy of Novel Pyrazolone Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors in Experimental Mouse Models of Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: de Araújo Julianna Siciliano , França da Silva Cristiane , Batista Denise da Gama Jaén , Nefertiti Aline , Fiuza Ludmila Ferreira de Almeida , Fonseca-Berzal Cristina Rosa , Bernardino da Silva Patrícia , Batista Marcos Meuser , Sijm Maarten , Kalejaiye Titilola D. , de Koning Harry P. , Maes Louis , Sterk Geert Jan , Leurs Rob , Soeiro Maria de Nazaré Correia
Published: June 2020

Pyrazolones are heterocyclic compounds with interesting biological properties. Some derivatives inhibit phosphodiesterases (PDEs) and thereby increase the cellular concentration of cyclic AMP (cAMP), which plays a vital role in the control of metabolism in eukaryotic cells, including the protozoan
Trypanosoma cruzi
, the etiological agent of Chagas disease (CD), a major neglected tropical disease.
In vitro
phenotypic screening identified a 4-bromophenyl-dihydropyrazole dimer as an anti-
T. cruzi
hit and 17 novel pyrazolone analogues with variations on the phenyl ring were investigated in a panel of phenotypic laboratory models.
The FDA-Approved Drug Nelfinavir Inhibits Lytic Cell-Free but Not Cell-Associated Nonlytic Transmission of Human Adenovirus
Authors: Georgi Fanny , Andriasyan Vardan , Witte Robert , Murer Luca , Hemmi Silvio , Yu Lisa , Grove Melanie , Meili Nicole , Kuttler Fabien , Yakimovich Artur , Turcatti Gerardo , Greber Urs F.
Published: June 2020

Adenoviruses (AdVs) are prevalent and give rise to chronic and recurrent disease. Human AdV (HAdV) species B and C, such as HAdV-C2, -C5, and -B14, cause respiratory disease and constitute a health threat for immunocompromised individuals. HAdV-Cs are well known for lysing cells owing to the E3 CR1-β-encoded adenovirus death protein (ADP). We previously reported a high-throughput image-based screening framework and identified an inhibitor of HAdV-C2 multiround infection, nelfinavir mesylate.