bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vulvovaginal involvement in Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: management and techniques used to reduce gynecologic sequelae
Authors: Crowder Carly A. , Jeney Sarah E. S. , Kraus Christina N. , Bernal Nicole , Lane Felicia
Published: May 2021

Background

Vulvovaginal involvement in Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is common, likely underdiagnosed, and can result in severe sequelae if not managed acutely. There are few studies on acute management of vulvovaginal SJS/TEN. Current recommendations are predominantly based on expert opinion. We aimed to determine the frequency of vulvovaginal involvement in SJS/TEN at a single institution, identify treatment modalities, and assess outcomes at a tertiary care burn center.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of vulvovaginal SJS/TEN cases between 2009 and 2019. Demographic and clinical data including exam findings, treatment regimens, and outpatient follow‐up were collected from the electronic medical record.

Results

Vulvovaginal involvement was observed in 12.7% (19/149) of cases of female patients with SJS/TEN. The mean age was 38.7 years (SD 23.6), and 21% (4/19) of patients were pediatric (age 9–18). Vulvar involvement was seen in 47.3% (9/19), and vulvar plus vaginal involvement was reported in 42.1% (8/19). Treatment regimens were variable until 2017, at which time institutional guidelines were implemented including application of ultrapotent topical steroid, vaginal estrogen, and menstrual suppression. Gynecology follow‐up occurred in 15.7% (3/19) of cases. One complication of superficial vaginal agglutination was noted and was successfully treated in the office with blunt dissection.

Conclusion

The most common treatment modalities employed at our institution included application of ultrapotent topical steroid, vaginal estrogen, and menstrual suppression. While follow‐up was limited for our patient population, we propose an algorithm to prevent long‐term sequalae of vulvovaginal SJS/TEN. Gynecologic surveillance is recommended to reduce urogynecologic sequelae.
Effects of response instructions on situational judgment test performance in operational selection and developmental contexts
Authors: Zhang Charlene , Cullen Michael J. , Sackett Paul R.
Published: May 2021

Susceptibility to faking is a key issue in the operational use of SJTs. We administered an SJT with both knowledge‐based (“should do”) and behavioral (“would do”) response instructions in a low‐stakes developmental context to 946 current medical residents and in a high‐stakes selection context to 275 applicants to medical residency programs. Results indicated that (a) controlling for instruction condition, SJT scores were higher in the selection context and (b) controlling for context, SJT scores were lower in the behavioral instruction condition. However, instruction condition moderated the effect of faking on SJTs in these contexts, such that differences between SJT scores in the “would do” and “should do” instruction conditions were greater in the developmental versus selection context. Implications are discussed.
Perceived Session Quality Scale: What contributes to the quality of synchronous online education?
Authors: Czahajda Radoslaw , Černko Mitja
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this research was to construct an instrument to measure participants’ satisfaction with synchronous online education, explore its psychometric properties and explore differences among sessions based on their format and content. The quantitative analyses employed factor analysis in conjunction with item response theory for validation purposes and a (multivariate) analysis of variance with multilevel modelling for comparison purposes (N = 433). The qualitative analysis relied on classical content analysis of 303 open‐question feedback responses classified as Promoters or Detractors. Eight out of 10 questions from the initial item pool were retained for the final scale. In contrast with current knowledge about synchronous online education, interactivity was related to overall perceived session quality the least compared with other aspects included. Qualitative research provided pragmatic insights about the participants’ perspective on session quality and a comprehensive map of potentially relevant factors that could be a meaningful focus of future iterations of research. A relatively small and conceptually homogeneous pool of items prevented the extraction of additional factors due to discriminant validity issues. In future research, a larger and more comprehensive pool of items should be used as a starting point for constructing a scale, and if possible, longitudinal measures of learning transfer included as well. Educators can immediately make use of the practical suggestions in their instructional design, use the Perceived Session Quality Scale as a brief screening instrument to evaluate their sessions, and benchmark their quality in light of percentile scores provided for various types of sessions. The major contributions of this paper are the construction of a short, generalizable, and psychometrically valid tool for (synchronous online) education screening assessment—the Perceived Session Quality Scale—and an empirical mapping of potentially relevant aspects that contribute to perceived session quality.
Emigration, population shrinkage and a rationale for local solutions: Lessons for local governments and NGOs
Authors: Bryer Thomas Andrew , Kalesnikaite Vaiva , Butkeviciene Egle , Vaidelyte Egle , Vaiciuniene Jolanta
Published: May 2021

Emigration and population shrinkage are challenges faced in countries and communities throughout the world. Based on a systematic literature analysis of approximately 600 articles, we examine voluntary emigration through the lens of non‐economic factors, establishing a cohesive and coherent view of the literature landscape across disciplines and enabling discussion of how local governments and non‐governmental organizations might respond to emigration pressures nationally and locally. The factors identified in the literature are set within seven conceptual categories: personal ambition, personal relationships, quality of life, quality of working life, future opportunity, fitness to enter a new society and quality of governance. Focusing on these factors, a set of tools for local government and non‐governmental organization action are proposed to manage emigration‐induced population shrinkage, including citizen participation, strategic planning and management, cross‐sector partnerships and capacity investments in the non‐profit sector.
Fibroblasts as confederates of the immune system
Authors: Correa‐Gallegos Donovan , Jiang Dongsheng , Rinkevich Yuval
Published: May 2021

Fibroblastic stromal cells are as diverse, in origin and function, as the niches they fashion in the mammalian body. This cellular variety impacts the spectrum of responses elicited by the immune system. Fibroblast influence on the immune system keeps evolving our perspective on fibroblast roles and functions beyond just a passive structural part of organs. This review discusses the foundations of fibroblastic stromal‐immune crosstalk, under the scope of stromal heterogeneity as a basis for tissue‐specific tutoring of the immune system. Focusing on the skin as a relevant immunological organ, we detail the complex interactions between distinct fibroblast populations and immune cells that occur during homeostasis, injury repair, scarring, and disease. We further review the relevance of fibroblastic stromal cell heterogeneity and how this heterogeneity is central to regulate the immune system from its inception during embryonic development into adulthood.
Momentary borderline personality disorder symptoms in youth as a function of parental invalidation and youth‐perceived support
Authors: Vanwoerden Salome , Byrd Amy L. , Vine Vera , Beeney Joseph E. , Scott Lori N. , Stepp Stephanie D.
Published: May 2021

Background

Parental invalidation is central to etiological models of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Previous studies relied on retrospective accounts or laboratory observations to examine these associations. There is a dearth of research assessing these constructs in daily life, and limited studies have tested the effect of parental invalidation on BPD symptoms during early adolescence, when BPD onsets. The current study took a dynamic approach to assess parents’ validating and invalidating behavior and its effect on youths’ BPD symptom expression in daily life, while accounting for parent‐perceived helpfulness of these behaviors and youth‐perceived support.

Methods

A psychiatric sample of 162 early adolescents (age range = 10–14 years; 47% female) and their parent completed a four‐day ecological momentary assessment study. Parents reported on the use of validating and invalidating (e.g. punishing and ignoring) behaviors during parent–child conflict, as well as perceived helpfulness of these behaviors. Youth reported on their BPD symptoms and perceived parental support. Multilevel models were used to test the between‐ and within‐person effects of parents’ validating and invalidating behaviors, parent‐perceived helpfulness and youth‐perceived support, and their interaction on youth’s momentary expression of BPD symptoms.

Results

At the between‐person level, invalidating behaviors, specifically punishing behaviors, were related to greater BPD symptoms in daily life, while ignoring behaviors were associated with fewer BPD symptoms. Youth‐perceived support predicted fewer BPD symptoms.

Conclusions

Results underscore the importance of parental invalidation for the expression of BPD symptoms in daily life and also highlight the importance of youth’s subjective experience of parental support. Findings are discussed in terms of etiological and intervention models that emphasize a dyadic framework.
Individual differences in white matter of the uncinate fasciculus and inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus: possible early biomarkers for callous‐unemotional behaviors in young children with disruptive behavior problems
Authors: Graziano Paulo A. , Garic Dea , Dick Anthony Steven
Published: May 2021

Background

Callous‐unemotional (CU) behaviors are important for identifying severe patterns of conduct problems (CP). One major fiber tract implicated in the development of CP is the uncinate fasciculus (UF), which connects amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). The goals of the current study were to (a) explore differences in the white matter microstructure in the UF and other major fiber tracks between young typically developing (TD) children and those with a disruptive behavior disorder (DBD) and (b) explore, within the DBD group, whether individual differences in these white matter tracts relate to co‐occurring CP and CU behaviors.

Methods

Participants included 198 young children (69% boys, Mage = 5.66 years; 80% Latinx; 48.5% TD). CU behaviors and CP were measured via a combination of teacher/parent ratings. Non‐invasive diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) was used to measure fractional anisotropy (FA), an indirect indicator of white matter properties.

Results

Relative to TD children, children in the DBD group had reduced FA on four out of the five fiber tracks we examined (except for cingulum and right ILF), even after accounting for whole brain FA, sex, movement, parental income, and IQ. Within the DBD group, no associations were found between CP and reduced white matter integrity across any of the fiber tracks examined. However, we found that even after accounting for CP, ADHD symptomology, and a host of covariates (whole brain FA, sex, movement, parental income, and IQ), CU behaviors were independently related to reduced FA in bilateral UF and left inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus (IFOF) in the DBD group, but this was not the case for TD children.

Conclusions

Alterations in the white matter microstructure within bilateral UF and left IFOF may be biomarkers of CU behaviors, even in very young children.
Effectiveness and safety of apremilast in biologic‐naïve patients with moderate psoriasis treated in routine clinical practice in Greece: the APRAISAL study
Authors: Ioannides D. , Antonakopoulos N. , Georgiou S. , Chasapi V. , Katsantonis I. , Drosos A. , Rigopoulos D. , Antoniou C. , Anastasiadis G. , Bassukas I. , Ioannidou D. , Protopapa A. , Neofotistou O. , Krasagakis K. , Aronis P. , Papageorgiou M. , Lazaridou E. , Patsatsi A. , Lefaki I. , Roussaki‐Schulze A.V. , Satra F. , Anagnostopoulos Z. , Papakonstantis M.
Published: May 2021

Background

Apremilast is an oral phosphodiesterase‐4 inhibitor indicated for patients with moderate‐to‐severe chronic plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis.

Objectives

To examine the effectiveness of apremilast on Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and nail, scalp and palmoplantar involvement, when administered prior to biologics.

Methods

This 52‐week real‐world study included biologic‐naive adults with moderate psoriasis (psoriasis‐involved body surface area 10% to <20%, or PASI 10 to <20 and DLQI 10 to <20). Apremilast was initiated ≤7 days before enrolment. Data from the first 100 eligible patients who completed 24 weeks (W24) of observation (or were prematurely withdrawn) are presented in this interim analysis using the last‐observation‐carried‐forward imputation method.

Results

Eligible patients (mean age: 49.9 years; 71.0% males; median disease duration: 8.0 years) were consecutively enrolled between April and October 2017, by 18 dermatology specialists practising in hospital outpatient settings in Greece. Baseline DLQI (median: 12.0) and PASI (median: 11.7) scores improved (P < 0.001) at all postbaseline timepoints (Weeks 6, 16 and 24; W24 median decreases: 9.0 and 9.4 points respectively). At W24, DLQI ≤5, DLQI 0 or 1, and PASI‐75 response rates were 63.0%, 25.0% and 48.0% respectively. The Nail Psoriasis Severity Index score in patients with baseline nail involvement (n = 57) decreased at all postbaseline timepoints (P < 0.001; W24 median decrease: 20.0 points). At W24, 50.0% and 51.7% of patients with baseline scalp (n = 76) and palmoplantar (n = 29) involvement respectively achieved postbaseline Physician’s Global Assessment (PGA) score of 0 or 1 if baseline score was ≥3, or 0 if baseline score was 1 or 2. The adverse drug reaction rate was 21.0% (serious: 2.0%).

Conclusions

These interim results indicate that through 24 weeks, apremilast improved quality of life and reduced disease severity in biologic‐naive patients with moderate plaque psoriasis, while demonstrating safety consistent with the known safety profile.
Emergence of breeding tubercles and puberty onset in male zebrafish: evidence for a dependence on body growth
Authors: Dai Xiangyan , Pu Deyong , Wang Liping , Cheng Xinkai , Liu Xiaoqin , Yin Zhan , Wang Zhijian
Published: May 2021

The presence of breeding tubercles (BTs) on the pectoral fins has been investigated as a typical male secondary sexual characteristic (SSC) that distinguish males from females in adult zebrafish. Nonetheless, the earliest occurrence of these tubercles and its association with puberty onset and body growth remain unclear. In this study, using morphological, histological and statistical analyses, the authors examined the first appearance of BTs and puberty onset in male zebrafish, with particular emphasis on the potential impact of body growth on them. The results of this study revealed that BTs distributed along the first five branched pectoral fin rays were the earliest manifestation of male SSCs, which is significantly strongly correlated with body weight (R2 = 0.9609, P < 0.001), and could be used as a “gold standard” for the earliest sex distinction (<0.1 g in weight). Using the first appearance of BTs (<0.20 mm2) as a metric, the authors established that male puberty commenced at a body weight of c. 0.056 ± 0.015 g or a standard length of 10.99 ± 1.051 mm (mean ± S.D.). In this study, the authors thus established a simple method that can be used to sex live zebrafish at the pubertal stage and provides the first evidence for the relationship of BTs and male puberty initiation with body growth. These findings will accordingly lay a foundation for exploring mechanisms of the SSCs and male puberty onset in zebrafish and other teleost fish.
China is facing serious experimental monkey shortage during the COVID‐19 lockdown
Authors: Tian Chao‐Yang
Published: May 2021

This report aims to analyze the experimental monkey shortage generated by the COVID‐19 lockdown. The supply capability of the monkey breeding farms is insufficient to meet demand, and the sales prices have skyrocketed since 2018. The contradiction will be further aggravated with import prohibition although the countermeasures suggested.
Monopolar radiofrequency for reposing drooping fat planes and facial rejuvenation: A prospective study on 30 subjects towards true antiaging
Authors: Garg Suruchi , Vashisht Kanya Rani , Sushruth P. Ram , Saka Deepa V.
Published: May 2021

Background

Monopolar radiofrequency (MRF) for facial rejuvenation works by diffusely heating the dermis and subdermal fibro‐septal network. Immediate collagen contraction and long‐term neo‐collagenesis produce antiaging effects.

Aim

To lift and repose drooping fat planes along their vectors of descent to restore natural, youthful contours using MRF and to objectively measure, quantify, and analyze the antiaging effects of MRF on the backdrop of functional facial anatomy.

Methods

This was a prospective study on 30 subjects aged 25–65 years who underwent three sessions of MRF (Exilis, BTL Aesthetics) with a modified protocol at weekly intervals. Clinical evaluation at baseline and 4 weeks after the final session was done according to the global drooping and wrinkles classification and scoring system (GDWCSS) and statistically evaluated. Two patients were analyzed with Ultrasound and Vectra‐H1 imaging for change in subcutaneous fat depth and volume over different facial areas, respectively.

Results

There was improvement in all parameters (volume alteration and wrinkles) of the GDWCSS, of which improvement in cases that had baseline severe (grade‐4) temporal fat loss, malar fat loss, periorbital hollowing, and puffiness was statistically significant. The results of imaging supported the clinical findings.

Conclusion

Monopolar radiofrequency targets facial collagen as deep as the facial fat, thereby achieving “reversal” of the grooves and bulges of aging with volume re‐distribution and favorable “remolding” of fat pads. The result is simultaneous skin tightening, lifting and contouring in manner that is natural, regenerative, and corrective. Given its versatility, efficacy, safety, and tolerability, it is emerging as a power‐player in the dermatologist's antiaging armamentarium.
Hyperammonemic encephalopathy associated with post‐radiotherapy vesicointestinal fistula following cervical cancer
Authors: Kato Kumiko , Okumura Keiko , Suzuki Shoji , Matsuyama Aika , Hirabayashi Hiroki , Hattori Ryohei
Published: May 2021

The majority of hyperammonemic encephalopathy is due to liver cirrhosis. However, urinary tract infection caused by urease‐producing bacteria increases ammonia in urine and can lead to hyperammonemic encephalopathy, especially in cases with obstructive uropathy and vesicointestinal fistula. This is the first case report of hyperammonemic encephalopathy in a cervical cancer patient associated with postradiotherapy vesicointestinal fistula. A 52‐year‐old woman developed diarrhea due to vesicosigmoidal fistula 14 years after radical hysterectomy and radiotherapy to treat cervical cancer. She refused urinary and/or fecal diversion. Twelve months after the diagnosis of fistula, she was admitted due to somnolence. Blood examination showed hyperammonemia without liver dysfunction. Urine culture showed Proteus rettgeri and Klebsiella pneumoniae. She recovered after intravenous antibiotics. Eight months after recovery, she was readmitted due to somnolence reoccurring with failed intravenous, but successful oral antibiotic treatment. She finally agreed to undergo percutaneous nephrostomy and hyperammonemia never recurred during 7 years of follow‐up.
Medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw: Osteoclast profile in comparison with osteoradionecrosis of the jaw and osteomyelitis of the jaw
Authors: Ngoc Thuy Tran Vy , Chaisuparat Risa
Published: May 2021

Background

Medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a pathology condition of jaw bone caused by a side effect of medications prescribed for skeletal disease. The mechanism of MRONJ is still unknown now. Osteoclasts are cells directly influenced by the medication and the modification in cells metabolisms by the drugs lead to MRONJ. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the osteoclasts morphology, quantity, and comparing with other necrotic diseases.

Methods

Thirty‐eight (38) subjects, including cases with MRONJ (n = 11), osteoradionecrosis of the jaw (n = 9), osteomyelitis of the jaw (n = 9), and normal jaw bone (n = 9), were studied. Hematoxylin‐and‐eosin‐stained slides of these diagnosed cases were used to evaluate osteoclasts’ characteristics. Immunohistochemistry of TRAP was performed to observed the function of osteoclasts. These characteristics of osteoclasts were also evaluated in the relationship with the histological features using regression analysis.

Results

The results showed that osteoclasts in MRONJ enhance activity by increasing the size and the quantity (p < 0.05). The presence of osteoblasts, inflammatory cells, and bacterial colonies showed a strong correlation with the change in morphology and the number of osteoclasts (p < 0.05). However, the TRAP‐positive mean number and the TRAP intensity of osteoclasts in MRONJ did not show a significant difference with those in other groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, osteoclasts in MRONJ increase the number and become bigger with multi‐nuclei which might relate to the presence of osteoblasts, inflammation, and microorganisms. This finding supports the idea osteoclasts might be the main key to investigate MRONJ.
Nutritional evaluation of commercial dry dog foods available on the Czech market
Authors: Stercova Eva , Strakova Eva , Tsponova Jana , Grmelova Michaela , Janacova Karolina , Muchova Katerina
Published: May 2021

The evaluation of the quality of commercial diets is a topic of interest to dog owners and veterinarians. The aims of the study were to determine proximate analysis, metabolizable energy and some amino acids in dry dog diets for different ages, divided into three groups G1 (low price, grains included), G2 (medium price, grains included) and G3 (high price, grain‐free). The hypothesis was tested that there are significant differences in the analysed values between dry dog diets from different price categories and between grain‐free and grain‐containing diets. Furthermore, the analysed values were compared with AAFCO and FEDIAF recommendations and with label values guaranteed by manufacturers to see whether there are any deviations. We analysed 60 samples of complete dry dog diets purchased in the Czech Republic, using the standard AOAC methods of proximate analysis. Metabolizable energy was calculated using the NRC equation, and 30 samples were analysed for selected amino acids. The results showed that there are significant differences in protein and amino acid contents between grain‐free (G3) and grain‐containing (G1,2) dog diets. G3 diets had significantly (p < 0.01) higher crude protein and essential amino acid contents. No significant differences were found between grain‐containing diets G1 and G2. The results may indicate a higher proportion of animal components and a lower content of carbohydrates in G3 diets. Most of the tested dog diets met the AAFCO and FEDIAF recommendations. There were only a few deviations in threonine in G1 and G2 diets for growing dogs.
Trophic niche and home range of an insular pit viper following loss of food resources
Authors: Sandfoss M. R. , McCue M. D. , Lillywhite H. B.
Published: May 2021

Investigations of the response of wild populations to natural ecological disturbances can provide insights into the ability of animals to respond to ever‐increasing and intensifying stressors. Seahorse Key is a continental island in the Gulf of Mexico that has been an important rookery site for several species of colonially nesting waterbirds. Resident cottonmouth snakes, Agkistrodon conanti, feed heavily on fish carrion provided by nesting waterbirds. Unexpectedly in 2015, the entire waterbird colony abandoned Seahorse Key and has not returned since. We used stable isotopes and radio‐telemetry to test hypotheses related to the response of the trophic niche and size of home range of insular cottonmouths following the loss of bird‐provided food resources. We found that stable isotope values of carbon (δ13C) decreased while nitrogen (δ15N) values increased between the pre‐ (n = 188) and post‐abandonment (n = 48) periods. The observed changes in stable isotope values correspond to a reduction in feeding on marine fish to terrestrially derived food resources and were also affected by body size and age class. Home range calculated from snakes tracked using radio‐telemetry showed no significant changes between pre‐ and post‐abandonment periods. These data corroborate earlier studies to indicate that cottonmouths on Seahorse Key have not effectively compensated for sudden substantial loss of food resources. This insight has implications for the conservation and management of populations with episodic components of food webs, especially in relation to ecological disturbance.
The Nuclear Word Family List: A List of the Most Frequent Family Members, Including Base and Affixed Words
Authors: Cobb Tom , Laufer Batia
Published: May 2021

This article introduces the NFL7 (Nuclear Family List 7), a list of the 2,887 most frequent “nuclear” word families, that is, families that include just the most frequent family members and exclude those that constitute less than 7% of family occurrences. The NFL7 was developed by using a dedicated computer program, the Nuclear List Builder (freely available to users). To construct the list, we used that tool to reduce the complete BNC/COCA lists of the 3,000 most frequent word families from 19,062 to 7,293 word types and from 9,132 to 5,610 lemmas. Despite this reduction, the NFL7 compares favorably with other lists in terms of text coverage, and it includes a small number of the most frequent derivational affixes. We argue that the nuclearization of the list makes it suitable for nonadvanced learners, for teaching and testing both receptive and productive knowledge, and for instruction in basic morphology.
Novel genomic approaches to study antagonistic coevolution between hosts and parasites
Authors: Märkle Hanna , John Sona , Cornille Amandine , Fields Peter D. , Tellier Aurélien
Published: May 2021

Host‐parasite coevolution is ubiquitous, shaping genetic and phenotypic diversity and the evolutionary trajectory of interacting species. With the advances of high throughput sequencing technologies applicable to model and non‐model organisms alike, it is now feasible to study in greater detail (a) the genetic underpinnings of coevolution, (b) the speed and type of dynamics at coevolving loci, and (c) the genomic consequences of coevolution. This review focuses on three recently developed approaches that leverage information from host and parasite full genome data simultaneously to pinpoint coevolving loci and draw inference on the coevolutionary history. First, co‐genome‐wide association study (co‐GWAS) methods allow pinpointing the loci underlying host‐parasite interactions. These methods focus on detecting associations between genetic variants and the outcome of experimental infection tests or on correlations between genomes of naturally infected hosts and their infecting parasites. Second, extensions to population genomics methods can detect genes under coevolution and infer the coevolutionary history, such as fitness costs. Third, correlations between host and parasite population size in time are indicative of coevolution, and polymorphism levels across independent spatially distributed populations of hosts and parasites can reveal coevolutionary loci and infer coevolutionary history. We describe the principles of these three approaches and discuss their advantages and limitations based on coevolutionary theory. We present recommendations for their application to various host (prokaryotes, fungi, plants, and animals) and parasite (viruses, bacteria, fungi, and macroparasites) species. We conclude by pointing out methodological and theoretical gaps to be filled to extract maximum information from full genome data and thereby to shed light on the molecular underpinnings of coevolution.
MoWhi2 regulates appressorium formation and pathogenicity via the MoTor signalling pathway in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Shi Huanbin , Meng Shuai , Qiu Jiehua , Wang Congcong , Shu Yazhou , Luo Chaoxi , Kou Yanjun
Published: May 2021

Magnaporthe oryzae causes rice blast disease, which seriously threatens the safety of food production. Understanding the mechanism of appressorium formation, which is one of the key steps for successful infection by M. oryzae, is helpful to formulate effective control strategies of rice blast. In this study, we identified MoWhi2, the homolog of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Whi2 (Whisky2), as an important regulator that controls appressorium formation in M. oryzae. When MoWHI2 was disrupted, multiple appressoria were formed by one conidium and pathogenicity was significantly reduced. A putative phosphatase, MoPsr1, was identified to interact with MoWhi2 using a yeast two‐hybridization screening assay. The knockout mutant ΔMopsr1 displayed similar phenotypes to the ΔMowhi2 strain. Both the ΔMowhi2 and ΔMopsr1 mutants could form appressoria on a hydrophilic surface with cAMP levels increasing in comparison with the wild type (WT). The conidia of ΔMowhi2 and ΔMopsr1 formed a single appressorium per conidium, similar to WT, when the target of rapamycin (TOR) inhibitor rapamycin was present. In addition, compared with WT, the expression levels of MoTOR and the MoTor signalling activation marker gene MoRS3 were increased, suggesting that inappropriate activation of the MoTor signalling pathway is one of the important reasons for the defects in appressorium formation in the ΔMowhi2 and ΔMopsr1 strains. Our results provide insights into MoWhi2 and MoPsr1‐mediated appressorium development and pathogenicity by regulating cAMP levels and the activation of MoTor signalling in M. oryzae.
Correlations in post‐mortem imaging‐histopathology studies of sporadic human cerebral small vessel disease: A systematic review
Authors: Humphreys Catherine A. , Smith Colin , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: May 2021

Aims

Sporadic human cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) commonly causes stroke and dementia but its pathogenesis is poorly understood. There are recognised neuroimaging and histopathological features. However, relatively few studies have examined the relationship between the radiological and pathological correlates of SVD; better correlation would promote greater insight into the underlying biological changes.

Methods

We performed a systematic review to collate and appraise the information derived from studies that correlated histological with neuroimaging‐defined SVD lesions. We searched for studies describing post‐mortem imaging and histological tissue examination in adults, extracted data from published studies, categorised the information and compiled this narrative.

Results

We identified 38 relevant studies, including at least 1146 subjects, 342 of these with SVD: 29 studies focussed on neuroradiological white matter lesions (WML), six on microinfarcts and three on dilated perivascular spaces (PVS) and lacunes. The histopathology terminology was diverse with few robust definitions. Reporting and methodology varied widely between studies, precluding formal meta‐analysis. PVS and ‘oedema’ were frequent findings in WML, being described in at least 94 and 18 radiological WML, respectively, in addition to myelin pallor. Histopathological changes extended beyond the radiological lesion margins in at least 33 radiological WML. At least 43 radiological lesions not seen pathologically and at least 178 histological lesions were not identified on imaging.

Conclusions

Histopathological assessment of human SVD is hindered by inconsistent methodological approaches and unstandardised definitions. The data from this systematic review will help to develop standardised definitions to promote consistency in human SVD research.
Synthesis of flavour‐related linalool is regulated by PpbHLH1 and associated with changes in DNA methylation during peach fruit ripening
Authors: Wei Chunyan , Liu Hongru , Cao Xiangmei , Zhang Minglei , Li Xian , Chen Kunsong , Zhang Bo
Published: May 2021

Linalool is one of the common flavour‐related volatiles across the plant kingdom and plays an essential role in determining consumer liking of plant foods. Although great process has been made in identifying terpene synthase (TPS) genes associated with linalool synthesis, much less is known about regulation of this pathway. We initiated study by identifying PpTPS3 encoding protein catalysing enantiomer (S)‐(+)‐linalool synthesis, which is a major linalool component (˜70%) observed in ripe peach fruit. Overexpression of PpTPS3 led to linalool accumulation, while virus‐induced gene silencing of PpTPS3 led to a 66.5% reduction in linalool content in peach fruit. We next identified transcription factor (TF) PpbHLH1 directly binds to E‐box (CACATG) in the PpTPS3 promoter and activates its expression based on yeast one‐hybrid assay and EMSA analysis. Significantly positive correlation was also observed between PpbHLH1 expression and linalool production across peach cultivars. Peach fruit accumulated more linalool after overexpressing PpbHLH1 in peach fruit and reduced approximately 54.4% linalool production after silencing this TF. DNA methylation analysis showed increased PpTPS3 expression was associated with decreased 5 mC level in its promoter during peach fruit ripening, but no reverse pattern was observed for PpbHLH1. Arabidopsis and tomato fruits transgenic for peach PpbHLH1 synthesize and accumulate higher levels of linalool compared with wild‐type controls. Taken together, these results would greatly facilitate efforts to enhance linalool production and thus improve flavour of fruits.
Efficient inference of longitudinal/functional data models with time‐varying additive structure
Authors: Huang Qian , You Jinhong , Zhang Liwen
Published: May 2021

In the analysis of longitudinal or functional data, a time‐varying additive model (tvAM) has been introduced that is effective at avoiding the curse of dimensionality and capturing dynamic features. The present article focuses on the unified two‐step estimators of a tvAM with sparse or dense longitudinal or functional data. It is proved that the two‐step estimators have the same asymptotic distribution as that of oracle estimators. Furthermore, a unified convergence theory is established, based on which a unified inference is proposed without deciding whether the data are sparse or dense. Also, a testing statistic that can adapt to the sparse and dense cases in a unified framework is proposed to check whether the bivariate nonparametric functions are time varying, and the asymptotic distribution of the proposed test statistic is derived. Simulation studies are conducted to assess the finite‐sample performance of the proposed model and methods, and two different types of data are considered to illustrate the proposed method.
Ethylene signaling modulates tomato pollen tube growth through modifications of cell wall remodeling and calcium gradient
Authors: Althiab‐Almasaud Rasha , Chen Yi , Maza Elie , Djari Anis , Frasse Pierre , Mollet Jean‐Claude , Mazars Christian , Jamet Elisabeth , Chervin Christian
Published: May 2021

Ethylene modulates plant developmental processes including flower development. Previous studies have suggested ethylene participates in pollen tube (PT) elongation, and both ethylene production and perception seem critical at the time of fertilization. The full gene set regulated by ethylene during PT growth is unknown. To study this, we used various EThylene Receptor (ETR) tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) mutants: etr3‐ko, a loss‐of‐function (LOF) mutant; and NR (NEVER RIPE), a gain‐of‐function (GOF) mutant. The etr3‐ko PTs grew faster than wild‐type (WT) PTs. Oppositely, NR PT elongation was slower than in WT, and PTs displayed larger diameters. ETR mutations result in feedback control of ethylene production. Furthermore, ethylene treatment of germinating pollen grains increased PT length in etr‐ko mutants and WT, but not in NR. Treatment with the ethylene perception inhibitor 1‐methylcyclopropene decreased PT length in etr‐ko mutants and WT, but had no effect on NR. This confirmed that ethylene regulates PT growth. The comparison of PT transcriptomes in LOF and GOF mutants, etr3‐ko and NR, both harboring mutations of the ETR3 gene, revealed that ethylene perception has major impacts on cell wall‐ and calcium‐related genes as confirmed by microscopic observations showing a modified distribution of the methylesterified homogalacturonan pectic motif and of calcium load. Our results establish links between PT growth, ethylene, calcium, and cell wall metabolism, and also constitute a transcriptomic resource.
The effect of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic and civil unrest on massive transfusion protocol activations in Minneapolis 2020
Authors: Braun Alexander L. , Gorlin Jed B. , Peters Jessica , Murphy Sherrie , Van Buren Nancy L.
Published: May 2021

Background

The year 2020 presented the transfusion community with unprecedented events and challenges, including the ongoing SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) pandemic, and more recently by civil unrest, following the death of George Floyd in late May of 2020. As a level 1 trauma center located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Hennepin Healthcare (HCMC) offers a unique perspective into the changes in massive transfusion protocol (MTP) activations and usage during this tumultuous period. This may provide insight for addressing similar future events.

Study design and methods

MTP logs from March 2020 to August 2020 were compared to logs from March to August 2019. The data were de‐identified, and MTP activations and component usage were categorized by activation reason. These categories were compared across the 2‐year period to examine the impact of COVID‐19, including stay‐at‐home orders, and civil unrest.

Results

For the examined 6 months of the year 2020, there were a total of 140 MTP activations, compared to 143 in 2019. There were more activations for violent trauma (VT) in 2020 than 2019 (44 vs. 32). This increase in activations for VT was offset by a decrease in non‐trauma activations (54 vs. 66). There was a significant increase in the number of components used in VT activations.

Discussion

During 2020, the initial mild decrease in MTP activations was followed by a dramatic increase in the number of activations and component usage for VT in June and July of that year.
Long‐term results (>1 year) in 19 dogs treated with MicroPulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation for refractory glaucoma
Authors: Story Brett D. , Sapienza John S. , Di Girolamo Nicola , Kim Kay
Published: May 2021

Objective

To report the long‐term (>1 year) outcome of MicroPulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation (MP‐TSCP) in dogs.

Animals Studied

Client owned dogs that underwent MP‐TSCP at a veterinary referral center.

Procedure

Retrospective study of 19 dogs treated with MP‐TSCP. Dogs were evaluated at a median follow‐up time of 30.5 months postoperatively. Reported outcomes were intraocular pressure (IOP), retention or loss of vision, number of medications, and additional procedures performed. Variables associated with time to treatment failure were evaluated.

Results

Data from 19 dogs (24 eyes) was available. Median laser settings employed were 140 s and 2200 mW at 31.3% duty cycle. Long‐term postoperative IOP was lower than preoperative IOP values (14 mmHg (IQR = 22 mmHg, range: 4–52 mmHg) versus 30 mmHg (IQR = 31 mmHg, range: 8–62 mmHg), respectively). Laser settings >2000 mW were associated with a significantly longer time to reported failure. MP‐TSCP was the sole therapy performed in 16/24 eyes resulting in long‐term IOP control in 13/24 eyes and retention of vision in 6 of the 14 sighted eyes. Repeat MP‐TSCP was performed in 10/24 eyes. Eight of 24 eyes required additional procedures with long‐term IOP control in 4/8 eyes.

Conclusions

MicroPulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation can be an effective treatment for refractory glaucoma in select cases. Higher laser settings increased time to reported failure, whereas age, glaucoma type, and preoperative IOP did not affect survival. MP‐TSCP as sole therapy or coupled with additional glaucoma procedures controlled the IOP in 70% of cases.
Validity of Performance Factors Used in Recent Studies on Heat Transfer Enhancement of Nanofluids
Authors: Muhammad Nura Mu'az , Japar Wan Mohd Arif Aziz , Yusof Siti Nurul Akmal , Asako Yutaka , Faghri Mohammad , Tan Lit Ken , Che Sidik Nor Azwadi
Published: May 2021

Many previous studies used the performance factors for the evaluation of heat transfer enhancement of nanofluids under the identical pumping power. The validity of the performance factors was not examined yet. The validity of the performance factors used in previous studies examined considered only flows in a circular tube based on the empirical correlations and experimental data. It was found that the performance factors used in the previous studies are not valid for the evaluation of heat transfer enhancement of nanofluids. Furthermore, this paper shows that the direct comparison of heat transfer rates without the assumptions of equal surface area and the equal temperature difference is suitable for the evaluation of heat transfer enhancement of single-phase fluids.
Effect of Laser Forming on the Energy Absorbing Behavior of Metal Foams
Authors: Zhang Tom , Liu Yubin , Ashmore Nathan , Li Wayne , Yao Y. Lawrence
Published: May 2021

Metal foam is light in weight and exhibits an excellent impact absorbing capability. Laser forming has emerged as a promising process in shaping metal foam plates into desired geometry. While the feasibility and shaping mechanism has been studied, the effect of the laser forming process on the mechanical properties and the energy absorbing behavior in particular of the formed foam parts has not been well understood. This study comparatively investigated such effect on as-received and laser formed closed-cell aluminum alloy foam. In quasi-static compression tests, attention paid to the changes in the elastic region. Imperfections near the laser irradiated surface were closely examined and used to help elucidate the similarities and differences in as-received and laser formed specimens. Similarly, from the impact tests, differences in deformation and specific energy absorption were focused on, while relative density distribution and evolution of foam specimens were numerically investigated.
FE analysis of the effects of process representations on the prediction of residual stresses and chip morphology in the down-milling of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Tounsi Nejah , El-Wardany Tahany
Published: May 2021

In part II of these two-part papers, the effects of four FEM representations of the milling process on the prediction of chip morphology and residual stresses (RS) are investigated. Part II focuses on the milling of conventional uncut chip thickness h with finite cutting edge radius and flank wear, while part I of these two-part papers has reported on the results in the case of milling small uncut chip thickness in the micrometre range with finite cutting edge radius. Two geometric models of the flank-wear land composed of flat and curved wear land are proposed and assessed. The four process representations are: i) orthogonal cutting with flat wear land and with the mean uncut chip thickness h ¯; ii) orthogonal cutting with flat wear land and with variable h, which characterises the down-milling process and which is imposed on a flat surface of the final workpiece; iii) modelling the true kinematics of the down milling process with flat wear land and iv) modelling the true kinematics of the down milling process with curved wear land. They are designated as Cte-h, Var-h, True-h and True-h*. The effectiveness of these representations is assessed when milling Ti6Al4V with a flank-wear land of VB = 200µm.
Effect of Exercising in the Heat on Intestinal Fatty Acid-Binding Protein, Endotoxins, and Lipopolysaccharide-Binding Protein Markers in Trained Athletic Populations: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Wallett Alice , Périard Julien D. , Saunders Philo , McKune Andrew
Published: May 2021

Along with digestion and absorption of nutrients, the gastrointestinal epithelium acts as a primary intestinal defense layer, preventing luminal pathogens from entering the circulation. During exercise in the heat, epithelial integrity can become compromised, allowing bacteria and bacterial endotoxins to translocate into circulation, triggering a systemic inflammatory response and exacerbating gastrointestinal damage. While this relationship seems clear in the general population in endurance/ultraendurance exercise, the aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effect of exercise in the heat on blood markers of gastrointestinal epithelial disturbance in well-trained individuals. Following the 2009 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviewed and Meta-Analyses guidelines, five electronic databases were searched for appropriate research, and 1,885 studies were identified. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and were subject to full methodological appraisal by two reviewers. Critical appraisal of the studies was conducted using the McMasters Critical Review Form. The studies investigated changes in markers of gastrointestinal damage (intestinal fatty acid–binding protein, endotoxin, and/or lipopolysaccharide-binding protein) following acute exercise in warm to hot conditions (≥ 30 °C) and included trained or well-trained participants with direct comparisons to a control temperate condition (≤ 22 °C). The studies found that prolonged submaximal and strenuous exercise in hot environmental conditions can acutely increase epithelial disturbance compared with exercise in cooler conditions, with disturbances not being clinically relevant. However, trained and well-trained populations appear to tolerate exercise-induced gastrointestinal disturbance in the heat. Whether this is an acquired tolerance related to regular training remains to be investigated.