bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why preen others? Predictors of allopreening in parrots and corvids and comparisons to grooming in great apes
Authors: Morales Picard Alejandra , Mundry Roger , Auersperg Alice M. , Boeving Emily R. , Boucherie Palmyre H. , Bugnyar Thomas , Dufour Valérie , Emery Nathan J. , Federspiel Ira G. , Gajdon Gyula K. , Guéry Jean‐Pascal , Hegedič Matjaž , Horn Lisa , Kavanagh Eithne , Lambert Megan L. , Massen Jorg J. M. , Rodrigues Michelle A. , Schiestl Martina , Schwing Raoul , Szabo Birgit , Taylor Alex H. , van Horik Jayden O. , von Bayern Auguste M. P. , Seed Amanda , Slocombe Katie E.
Published: December 2019

Allogrooming in primates serves not only a hygienic function, but also plays a crucial role in maintaining strong affiliative bonds between group members, which in turn, underpin the emergence of cooperative behavior. In contrast, although allopreening occurs in many avian species, we know little about its social functions. Our study addresses this issue by investigating allopreening in a broad comparative data set including six corvid and nine parrot species. We assessed whether rates of allopreening initiations, proportion of time spent allopreening, and the number of grooming partners in captive group‐housed birds were comparable to patterns observed in captive chimpanzees and bonobos. While parrots and corvids were found to have similar rates of social grooming to bonobos and chimpanzees,Panspecies dedicated significantly more time to social grooming. Animals in larger groups had more grooming partners, but when controlling for the number of potential partners, birds tended to have fewer grooming interaction partners thanPanspecies. We then investigated whether allopreening in parrots and corvids was predicted by behavioral markers of affiliative social bonds (close physical proximity, active feeding, and low levels of agonistic behavior). Results revealed that providing allopreening to a partner was significantly predicted by often being in close proximity, but not engagement in active feeding or agonistic behavior. We examined the region allopreened in a subset of species and found that preening a partner's head was predicted by both close physical proximity and active feeding, while body allopreening was only predicted by close physical proximity. Head preening may confer more hygienic benefits to recipients, and thus, may be more selectively provided to valued partners. Results support the hypothesis that allopreening in corvids and parrots helps maintain social bonds with an individual's most important social partners, showing some similarities to allogrooming in primates.
Dexmedetomidine attenuates LPS‐mediated BV2 microglia cells inflammation via inhibition of glycolysis
Authors: Meng Fufeng , Yu Wenhua , Duan Wenming , Wang Tianhai , Liu Yahua
Published: December 2019

Microglia inflammation induces pro‐inflammatory cytokines and pro‐inflammatory enzymes expression, thus leading to inflammation‐mediated neuronal cell death. Increased intracellular glycolysis participates in LPS‐mediated microglia inflammation. Dexmedetomidine exhibits neuroprotective effects in some situations. In this study, we mainly focused on whether and how dexmedetomidine inhibits LPS‐mediated cellular glycolysis and inflammation in BV2 cells. LPS induced pro‐inflammatory cytokines and pro‐inflammatory enzymes expression, and increased glycolysis capacity in BV2 cells. Moreover, inhibition of glycolysis by 2DG attenuated LPS‐induced pro‐inflammatory cytokines and pro‐inflammatory enzymes expression. Moreover, LPS upregulated hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) expression and decreased sirt1 expression. Dexmedetomidine counteracted these effects induced by LPS. Further, 2‐methoxyestradiol, a HIF1α inhibitor, could inhibit LPS‐mediated glycolysis and inflammation in BV2 cells, which was similar to the effects of dexmedetomidine. In addition, these effects of dexmedetomidine could be reversed by EX527, a sirt1 inhibitor. The present study indicated that dexmedetomidine, via upregulation of sirt1 expression, inhibited HIF‐1α expression and glycolysis, thus reducing LPS‐mediated inflammation in BV2 cells.
Does biofilm origin matter? Biofilm responses to non‐flow period in permanent and temporary streams
Authors: Timoner Xisca , Colls Miriam , Salomón Samia M. , Oliva Francesc , Acuña Vicenç , Sabater Sergi
Published: December 2019

In some regions, climate change is increasing the variability of rainfall and the frequency of extreme events such as drought. Consequently, non‐flow periods have grown in length and frequency, both in temporary and in formerly permanent streams. Water abstraction for human use may further prolong these dry periods.

We analysed the resistance and resilience of biofilms from permanent and temporary streams to non‐flow conditions. This was achieved by exposing cobbles (collected from permanent and temporary streams) with intact biofilm to 31 days of non‐flow, followed by 20 days of stream flow in artificial stream channels. Biofilm resistance and resilience were assessed at a structural (algal biomass, pigment composition, and algae and cyanobacteria composition) and functional level (photosynthetic efficiency and community metabolism).

Algal taxa in biofilms from permanent and temporary streams differed throughout the experiment. Biofilms from permanent streams were less resistant to non‐flow than those from temporary streams at structural level. Permanent stream biofilms also presented lower resilience at a structural level, but responded similarly to temporary stream biofilms at a functional level.

Our investigation shows how the non‐flow period disturbed permanent stream biofilms, and suggests that temporary stream biofilms will have greater adaptive capacity as hydroperiod becomes shorter due to climate change.
Dietary fatty acids promote sleep through a taste‐independent mechanism
Authors: Pamboro Estelle L. S. , Brown Elizabeth B. , Keene Alex C.
Published: December 2019

Consumption of foods that are high in fat contribute to obesity and metabolism‐related disorders. Dietary lipids are comprised of triglycerides and fatty acids, and the highly palatable taste of dietary fatty acids promotes food consumption, activates reward centers in mammals and underlies hedonic feeding. Despite the central role of dietary fats in the regulation of food intake and the etiology of metabolic diseases, little is known about how fat consumption regulates sleep. The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, provides a powerful model system for the study of sleep and metabolic traits, and flies potently regulate sleep in accordance with food availability. To investigate the effects of dietary fats on sleep regulation, we have supplemented fatty acids into the diet of Drosophila and measured their effects on sleep and activity. We found that flies fed a diet of hexanoic acid, a medium‐chain fatty acid that is a by‐product of yeast fermentation, slept more than flies starved on an agar diet. To assess whether dietary fatty acids regulate sleep through the taste system, we assessed sleep in flies with a mutation in the hexanoic acid receptor Ionotropic receptor 56D, which is required for fatty acid taste perception. We found that these flies also sleep more than agar‐fed flies when fed a hexanoic acid diet, suggesting the sleep promoting effect of hexanoic acid is not dependent on sensory perception. Taken together, these findings provide a platform to investigate the molecular and neural basis for fatty acid‐dependent modulation of sleep.
Introduced plants as novel Anthropocene habitats for insects
Authors: Padovani Roberto J. , Salisbury Andrew , Bostock Helen , Roy David B. , Thomas Chris D.
Published: December 2019

Major environmental changes in the history of life on Earth have given rise to novel habitats, which gradually accumulate species. Human‐induced change is no exception, yet the rules governing species accumulation in anthropogenic habitats are not fully developed. Here we propose that nonnative plants introduced to Great Britain may function as analogues of novel anthropogenic habitats for insects and mites, analysing a combination of local‐scale experimental plot data and geographic‐scale data contained within the Great Britain Database of Insects and their Food Plants. We find that novel plant habitats accumulate the greatest diversity of insect taxa when they are widespread and show some resemblance to plant habitats which have been present historically (based on the relatedness between native and nonnative plant species), with insect generalists colonizing from a wider range of sources. Despite reduced per‐plant diversity, nonnative plants can support distinctive insect communities, sometimes including insect taxa that are otherwise rare or absent. Thus, novel plant habitats may contribute to, and potentially maintain, broader‐scale (assemblage) diversity in regions that contain mixtures of long‐standing and novel plant habitats.
Not a melting pot: Plant species aggregate in their non‐native range
Authors: Stotz Gisela C. , Cahill James F. , Bennett Jonathan A. , Carlyle Cameron N. , Bork Edward W. , Askarizadeh Diana , Bartha Sandor , Beierkuhnlein Carl , Boldgiv Bazartseren , Brown Leslie , Cabido Marcelo , Campetella Giandiego , Chelli Stefano , Cohen Ofer , Díaz Sandra , Enrico Lucas , Ensing David , Erdenetsetseg Batdelger , Fidelis Alessandra , Garris Heath W. , Henry Hugh A. L. , Jentsch Anke , Jouri Mohammad Hassan , Koorem Kadri , Manning Peter , Mitchell Randall , Moora Mari , Overbeck Gerhard E. , Pither Jason , Reinhart Kurt O. , Sternberg Marcelo , Tungalag Radnaakhand , Undrakhbold Sainbileg , van Rooyen Margaretha , Wellstein Camilla , Zobel Martin , Fraser Lauchlan H.
Published: December 2019

Aim

Plant species continue to be moved outside of their native range by human activities. Here, we aim to determine whether, once introduced, plants assimilate into native communities or whether they aggregate, thus forming mosaics of native‐ and alien‐rich communities. Alien species might aggregate in their non‐native range owing to shared habitat preferences, such as their tendency to establish in high‐biomass, species‐poor areas.

Location

Twenty‐two herbaceous grasslands in 14 countries, mainly in the temperate zone.

Time period

2012–2016.

Major taxa studied

Plants.

Methods

We used a globally coordinated survey. Within this survey, we found 46 plant species, predominantly from Eurasia, for which we had co‐occurrence data in their native and non‐native ranges. We tested for differences in co‐occurrence patterns of 46 species between their native (home) and non‐native (away) range. We also tested whether species had similar habitat preferences, by testing for differences in total biomass and species richness of the patches that species occupy in their native and non‐native ranges.

Results

We found the same species to show different patterns of association depending on whether they were in their native or non‐native range. Alien species were negatively associated with native species; instead, they aggregated with other alien species in species‐poor, high‐biomass communities in their non‐native range compared with their native range.

Main conclusions

The strong differences between the native (home) and non‐native (away) range in species co‐occurrence patterns are evidence that the way in which species associate with resident communities in their non‐native range is not species dependent, but is instead a property of being away from their native range. These results thus highlight that species might undergo important ecological changes when introduced away from their native range. Overall, we show origin‐dependent associations that result in novel communities, in which alien‐rich patches exist within a mosaic of native‐dominated communities.
Metastases to the ovary arising from endometrial, cervical and fallopian tube cancer: recent advances
Authors: Casey Laura , Singh Naveena
Published: December 2019

The introduction of genomic studies has enabled assessment of the clonality of synchronous tumours involving the ovary and other sites in the female genital tract in a definitive way. This has led to the abandonment of conventional approaches to primary site assignment, and the recognition that most such synchronous neoplasms are clonally related single tumours with metastatic spread, rather than independent primary tumours. These discoveries have implications for diagnostic practice, analogous to the gradual change over the last few decades in our approach to mucinous neoplasms of the ovary metastatic from the gastrointestinal tract. In this review, we first examine the routes of metastasis to the ovary, and then discuss the diagnostic and clinical implications of concurrent ovarian carcinomas arising in combination with endometrial, endocervical and tubal carcinomas. It is proposed that cases of primary low‐grade endometrioid endometrial carcinoma with a secondary unilateral ovarian tumour, both with indolent characteristics, may be classified as ‘FIGO stage IIIA‐simulating independent primary tumours’, with a comment that conservative management would be appropriate. It should be recognised that human papillomavirus‐associated endocervical adenocarcinomas may result in synchronous or metachronous ovarian metastases that appear to be unrelated to the primary tumour, and that these may be managed conservatively in the absence of other sites of disease. In cases of tubo‐ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma, tubal intraepithelial or contralateral adnexal involvement should count as a pelvic disease site for staging purposes.
Gastric‐type mucinous carcinoma of the cervix and its precursors – historical overview
Authors: Mikami Yoshiki
Published: December 2019

The emerging concept of gastric‐type mucinous carcinoma (GAS) of the uterine cervix has been accepted worldwide because of its aggressive clinical behaviour and the absence of high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV). GAS is included as a variant of mucinous carcinoma in the 2014 World Health Organization classification, and its recognition has provoked a discussion on endocervical adenocarcinoma as a single entity such that endocervical adenocarcinoma is now divided into HPV‐associated and HPV‐independent groups. This article reviews historical and conceptual aspects of GAS and its precursors, starting with minimal deviation adenocarcinoma (MDA), through the ensuing confusion, up to the recent paradigm shift in cervical adenocarcinoma subclassification. The gastric immunophenotype of MDA was demonstrated by a Japanese group in 1998 using the HIK1083 antibody, which recognises gastric pyloric gland mucin, and this elucidated the pathogenesis of this particular tumour. However, this information resulted in overdiagnosis of lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (LEGH), first described in 1999 and which represents pyloric gland metaplasia (PGM), as malignant. In the early 2000s the relationship between MDA and LEGH/PGM became a matter of controversy. In 2007 HIK1083 immunohistochemistry extended the morphological spectrum of endocervical adenocarcinoma showing gastric differentiation beyond MDA, which resulted in the proposal of GAS as a distinct entity including MDA as its very well‐differentiated subtype. GAS is now considered to be an aggressive and chemoresistant neoplasm that is not related to high‐risk HPV. The LEGH/PGM–GAS sequence is currently regarded as an HPV‐independent pathway of carcinogenesis. Understanding the underlying molecular events in this process is key to the development of biomarkers for early detection and molecular targeted therapy.
Role of the pathologist in assessing response to treatment of ovarian and endometrial cancers
Authors: Williams Anthony T , Ganesan Raji
Published: December 2019

Standardisation of pathological evaluation of tissue responses to therapy permits robust stratification of patient outcomes for management decisions and allows comparison of results across clinical trials. In gynaecological pathology there are two major areas where pathological assessment of treatment response is currently used to determine ongoing therapy. High‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) of tubo‐ovarian origin frequently presents as high‐stage disease and may be managed by neoadjuvant chemotherapy with debulking surgery. The chemotherapy response score (CRS) is a reproducible, validated three‐tiered morphological scoring system to assess the response of HGSC to treatment. Interobserver agreement is shown to be substantial following online training, and women with CRS3 have significantly improved progression‐free and overall survival. Low‐grade endometrioid endometrial cancer and atypical hyperplasia/endometrioid intraepithelial neoplasia may be managed by progestogenic therapy in women who wish to preserve fertility or for whom medical co‐morbidities preclude surgical management. The response to treatment is assessed histologically in successive endometrial biopsies. The histological parameters are well described, but the pathological classification of treatment response is still under development. Pathological assessment of the response to treatment is incorporated into clinical guidelines.
Targeted therapies in gynaecological cancers
Authors: Crusz Shanthini M , Miller Rowan E
Published: December 2019

The treatment of cancer has changed dramatically over the last decade, driven by increased understanding of the cancer genome, immune landscape, molecular alterations and aberrant pathways that drive cancer progression. Advances in molecular biology have led to the development of targeted agents, including monoclonal antibodies, small molecules and check‐point inhibitors. Unlike chemotherapy, which inhibits DNA replication and mitosis, these agents target cancer signalling pathways, stroma, immune microenvironment and vasculature in tumour tissues. In gynaecological cancer, drugs targeting defective DNA repair, such as PARP inhibitors, have been approved for advanced ovarian cancer, and drugs targeting angiogenesis have been used in the treatment of advanced or recurrent ovarian and cervical cancers. Immune check‐point inhibitors such as anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 antibodies have proved successful for mismatch repair‐deficient endometrial cancers and HPV‐targeted therapies are under development for HPV‐related malignancies. In this era of precision medicine, improved understanding of cancer biology and genomics needs to be utilised to develop predictive biomarkers for these targeted therapies to maximise patient benefit.
Flight‐initiation response reflects short‐ and long‐term human visits to remote islets
Authors: Thibault Martin , Weston Michael A. , Ravache Andreas , Vidal Eric
Published: December 2019

The increasing use of, and visits to, isolated territories by people (especially tourists) enables the investigation of how biodiversity reacts to evolutionarily novel pressures. We explored the behavioural reaction of a breeding seabird species, the Brown Noddy Anous stolidus, to our repeated visits at two study sites in the Chesterfield Islands, a newly classified reserve in the Coral Sea Natural Park. Repeated measures of flight‐initiation distances (FIDs) at three sites and over time suggest that human visitations induced both a spatial phenotypical sorting or learning of individuals and a temporal habituation. In light of the novel ‘Sit and Defend’ mode of avian nest defence, the study finally provides the first dataset of FIDs for this species, and highlights management opportunities that could arise from the replication of such an approach to other breeding seabirds and therefore the conservation of remote island ecosystems.
How I investigate chronic myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Sangiorgio Valentina Fabiola Ilenia , Arber Daniel A. , Orazi Attilio
Published: December 2019

The 2016 revised 4th edition of the World Health Organization classification of hematopoietic neoplasms updated the diagnostic criteria for chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). Persistent peripheral blood monocytosis of at least 1 × 109/L and a percentage of monocytes ≥10% of the circulating white blood cell count (WBC) are both prerequisite criteria for this diagnosis. CMML represents the prototype of “overlapping” myeloid neoplasms with concurrent myeloproliferative and myelodysplastic features. However, clinical presentation is heterogeneous, with cases showing prevailing “dysplastic” features and others a predominant “proliferative” phenotype. Accounting for this diversity, two variants of CMML are recognized: “dysplastic” CMML defined by WBC < 13 × 109/L and “proliferative” CMML with WBC ≥ 13 × 109/L often showing features mimicking a myeloproliferative neoplasm. Although not an official WHO category, the “oligomonocytic” variant of CMML is defined by relative monocytosis with an absolute monocyte count of 0.5‐0.9 × 109/L. It can be considered a “pre‐phase,” as it frequently anticipates the development of an overt, classic CMML. In an attempt at improving disease prognostication, the blast count based grading system for CMML of the WHO 2008 Classification has been expanded in 2016 to include a new “CMML‐0” category. Lastly, the large body of knowledge on the molecular events occurring in CMML has been used to assist diagnosis and assess prognosis. Despite the step forwards, diagnosis of CMML still remains one of exclusion as no clinical, pathologic or molecular findings are specific for this disease. The current review brings insight into the spectrum of CMML and provides practical advice to approach suspected cases of CMML.
Effects of hemolysis, bilirubin, and lipemia interference on coagulation tests detected by two analytical systems
Authors: Nougier Christophe , Jousselme Emilie , Sobas Frédéric , Pousseur Valentin , Négrier Claude
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Interference on biological assays due to hemolysis, icterus, or lipemia (HIL) could represent a significant source of analytical errors leading to inaccurate interpretation of results. The aim of this study was to assess the HIL interference on prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and fibrinogen, using mechanical and optical detection methods.

Methods

Control plasmas and plasmas from patients treated with vitamin K antagonists or unfractionated heparin, with or without HIL, were performed on two analytical detection systems in order to identify potential analytical biases. Whether HIL lead to significant biological interferences was also evaluated, and a cutoff point for HIL‐induced analytical bias was determined.

Results

Hemolysis influenced PT and aPTT when hemoglobin was at 5 and 1.5 g/L in plasma, respectively. At 1.8 g/L, a positive relationship was found between the bias and the hemoglobin supernatant level only for fibrinogen measurement, using optical detection. For icteric interference, no significant bias was observed until a bilirubin concentration of 30 mg/dL. Lipamia (>500 mg/dL) led to analytical interference when using the optical analyzer.

Conclusion

The present study detected analytical interferences such as lipemia (>500 mg/dL) on coagulation tests on the optical analyzer. We also found a biological impact on the results in case of hemolyzed sample: Fibrinogen was decreased when the hemoglobin level was superior to 1.8 g/L, PT was prolonged beyond 5 g/L, and aPTT was shortened beyond 1.5 g/L hemoglobin concentration, especially in patients treated with heparin. Above these thresholds, it is important not to give results that could influence the clinical decision.
An examination of sex differences in associations between cord blood adipokines and childhood adiposity
Authors: Ashley‐Martin Jillian , Karaceper Maria , Dodds Linda , Arbuckle Tye E. , Ettinger Adrienne S. , Fraser William D. , Muckle Gina , Monnier Patricia , Fisher Mandy , Kuhle Stefan
Published: December 2019

Background

Though the physiological roles of adipokines in metabolism, insulin resistance and satiety are clear, literature regarding associations between cord blood adipokine levels and childhood adiposity is equivocal.

Objectives

To determine whether cord blood levels of leptin and adiponectin are associated with adiposity in children 2 to 5 years of age, and whether such associations are modified by sex.

Methods

Leptin and adiponectin levels were measured in cord blood and anthropometric measures were completed on 550 children enrolled in the Maternal–Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals Child Development Plus study (MIREC‐CD Plus). We used multivariable linear and Poisson regression models to determine associations between cord blood adipokine levels and child body mass index (BMI), triceps and subscapular skinfold thickness and risk of overweight/obesity and to assess effect modification by child sex.

Results

Cord blood adiponectin was significantly associated with modest increases in BMI and the sum of triceps and subscapular skinfold z‐scores in boys but not girls. A doubling of adiponectin levels was associated with a 30% increased risk of overweight/obesity in boys (RR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.64). Leptin was not associated with anthropometric measures in either sex.

Conclusions

The observed associations between adiponectin and adiposity in boys were statistically significant, of moderate magnitude, and underscore the value of considering sex‐specific patterns.
Labelling accuracy in low nicotine e-cigarette liquids from a sampling of US manufacturers
Authors: Jackson Remonica , Huskey Mariah , Brown Stacy
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To assess labelling accuracy for low nicotine concentration e-cigarette liquids.

Methods

Nicotine concentration in twelve e-liquids, available in 3 and 6 mg/ml strengths, was assayed (5 replicates each) using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Key findings

Average nominal concentrations of nicotine were lower than reported in 23/24 products tested, with 2/12 products labelled 3 mg/ml, and 3/12 of the 6 mg/ml products showing statistically significant differences from controls.

Conclusions

Despite the emergence of a global regulatory environment for e-cigarettes, inaccuracies still exist in nicotine concentration labelling, which may affect user habits and reliability of products used in smoking cessation.
20‐Hydroxyecdysone receptor‐activated Bombyx mori CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein gamma regulates the expression of BmCBP and subsequent histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation in Bo. mori
Authors: Lyu H. , Xu G. , Chen P. , Song Q. , Feng Q. , Yi Y. , Zheng S.
Published: December 2019

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding protein (CREB)‐binding protein (CBP or CREBBP) plays important roles in regulating gene transcription and animal development. However, the process by which CBP is up‐regulated to impact insect development is unknown. In this study, the regulatory mechanism of Bombyx mori CBP (BmCBP) expression induced by 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) was investigated. In the Bo. mori cell line, DZNU‐Bm‐12, 20E enhanced BmCBP transcription and histone H3K27 acetylation. BmCBP RNA interference (RNAi) resulted in decreased histone H3K27 acetylation. Additionally, the luciferase activity analysis revealed that the transcription factor, Bo. mori CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein gamma (BmC/EBPg), activated BmCBP transcription, which was suppressed by BmC/EBPg RNAi and promoted by BmC/EBPg overexpression. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation results demonstrated that BmC/EBPg could bind to the C/EBP cis‐regulatory elements in two positions of the BmCBP promoter. Moreover, BmC/EBPg transcription was enhanced by the 20E receptor (BmEcR), which bound to the BmC/EBPg promoter. BmEcR RNAi significantly inhibited the transcriptional levels of BmC/EBPg and BmCBP in the presence of 20E. Furthermore, the BmEcR‐BmC/EBPg pathway regulated the acetylation levels of histone H3K27. Altogether, these results indicate that BmEcR enhances the expression of BmC/EBPg, which binds to the BmCBP promoter, activates BmCBP expression and leads to histone H3K27 acetylation.
The Australia and New Zealand Cardio‐Oncology Registry: evaluation of chemotherapy‐related cardiotoxicity in a national cohort of paediatric cancer patients
Authors: Lapirow Daniel , La Gerche Andre , Toro Claudia , Masango Emma , Costello Ben , Porello Enzo , Ludlow Louise , Marshall Glenn , Trahair Toby , Mateos Marion , Lewin Jeremy , Byrne Jennifer , Boutros Rose , Manudhane Rebecca , Heath John , Ayer Julian , Gabriel Melissa , Walwyn Thomas , Saundankar Jelena , Forsey Jonathon , Le Ha , Mason Kylie , Celermajer David , Downie Peter , Walker Roderick , Holland Lucy , Martin Michelle , McLeman Lorna , Diamond Yonatan , Marcocci Maurizio , Donath Susan , Cheung Michael , Elliott David A. , Conyers Rachel
Published: December 2019

Cancer therapy related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) is an area of increasing focus, particularly during the survivorship period, for paediatric, adolescent and adult cancer survivors. With the advent of immunotherapy and targeted therapy, there is a new set of mechanisms from which paediatric and young adult patients with cancer may suffer cardiovascular injury. Furthermore, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the survivorship period. The recently established Australian Cardio‐Oncology Registry is the largest and only population‐based cardiotoxicity database of paediatric and adolescent and young adult oncology patients in the world, and the first paediatric registry that will document cardiotoxicity caused by chemotherapy and novel targeted therapies using a prospective approach. The database is designed for comprehensive data collection and evaluation of the Australian practice in terms of diagnosis and management of CTRCD. Using the Australian Cardio‐Oncology Registry critical clinical information will be collected regarding predisposing factors for the development of CTRCD, the rate of subclinical left ventricular dysfunction and transition to overt heart failure, further research into protectant molecules against cardiac dysfunction and aid in the discovery of which genetic variants predispose to CTRCD. A health economic arm of the study will assess the cost/benefit of both the registry and cardio‐oncology clinical implementation. Finally, an imaging arm will establish if exercise cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and VO2 max testing is a more sensitive predictor of cardiac reserve in paediatric and adolescent and young adult oncology patients exposed to cardiac toxic therapies.
Immunity against sexual stage Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax parasites
Authors: de Jong Roos M. , Tebeje Surafel K. , Meerstein‐Kessel Lisette , Tadesse Fitsum G. , Jore Matthijs M. , Stone Will , Bousema Teun
Published: December 2019

The efficient spread of malaria from infected humans to mosquitoes is a major challenge for malaria elimination initiatives. Gametocytes are the only Plasmodium life stage infectious to mosquitoes. Here, we summarize evidence for naturally acquired anti‐gametocyte immunity and the current state of transmission blocking vaccines (TBV). Although gametocytes are intra‐erythrocytic when present in infected humans, developing Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes may express proteins on the surface of red blood cells that elicit immune responses in naturally exposed individuals. This immune response may reduce the burden of circulating gametocytes. For both P. falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, there is a solid evidence that antibodies against antigens present on the gametocyte surface, when co‐ingested with gametocytes, can influence transmission to mosquitoes. Transmission reducing immunity, reducing the burden of infection in mosquitoes, is a well‐acknowledged but poorly quantified phenomenon that forms the basis for the development of TBV. Transmission enhancing immunity, increasing the likelihood or intensity of transmission to mosquitoes, is more speculative in nature but is convincingly demonstrated for P. vivax. With the increased interest in malaria elimination, TBV and monoclonal antibodies have moved to the center stage of malaria vaccine development. Methodologies to prioritize and evaluate products are urgently needed.
Biometric technology and beneficiary rights in social protection programmes
Authors: Sepúlveda Carmona Magdalena
Published: December 2019

Over the past decade, the use of biometric technology in the identification and authentication of beneficiaries of social protection programmes has increased. However, there has been little debate among governments, donors and civil society organizations on the potential implications of this technology in relation to the inclusion of the most vulnerable sectors of the population, as well as for the protection of privacy and personal data. This article aims to fill that gap. First, the article reviews how biometric technology is used in various social protection programmes around the world. Then, it examines the potential risks and challenges of deploying biometric technology in social protection programmes. Finally, it assesses the requirements necessary to ensure that biometric technology is implemented in compliance with international law standards. The focus is on developing countries, where the use of biometric technology in identification systems has increased considerably in recent years. Among the key conclusions of the article is that the adoption of biometric technology, often encouraged by donors, needs to be preceded by democratic debate where all alternatives are discussed. The adoption of this technology should be accompanied by a context‐specific assessment of risks, and the adoption of an appropriate legal and institutional framework to protect rights and ensure that the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the population are not excluded.
Microinsurance: A short history
Authors: Dror David M.
Published: December 2019

Twenty years ago, the International Social Security Review published an article that introduced a new term to the vocabulary of development and social protection: Microinsurance. Now, twenty years later, it is suitable to take stock of the contribution of microinsurance towards promoting coverage and social security. The article reviews the main insights gained from 20 years of implementation, including a clear expression of the value proposition of health microinsurance, understanding the demand for microinsurance, the business process for successful implementation, and conditions that must be satisfied for scaling and sustainable operations. It also explains the context that led to a considerable divergence in the microinsurance space. The article offers a discussion of unresolved issues and thoughts about the future of microinsurance. The conclusion of this article is that microinsurance can flourish when the necessary four pillars for its implementation exist, namely mainstreaming through political support, enhanced insurance literacy of the customers, technical assistance to self‐administer the schemes, and availability of seed capital. The sufficient additional condition is that customers perceive microinsurance as offering welfare gains that cannot be obtained by other means.
Carbon vacancy ordering in zirconium carbide powder
Authors: Zhou Yue , Heitmann Thomas W. , Bohannan Eric , Schaeperkoetter Joseph C. , Fahrenholtz William G. , Hilmas Gregory E.
Published: December 2019

Ordered carbon vacancies were detected in zirconium carbide (ZrCx) powders that were synthesized by direct reaction. Zirconium hydride (ZrH2) and carbon black were used as starting powders with the molar ratio of ZrH2:C = 1:0.6. Powders were reacted at 1300°C or 2000°C. The major phase detected by x‐ray diffraction (XRD) was ZrCx. No excess carbon was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in powders synthesized at either temperature. Ordering of the carbon vacancies was identified by neutron powder diffraction (NPD) and further supported by selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The vacancies in carbon‐deficient ZrCx exhibited diamond cubic symmetry with a supercell that consisted of eight (2 × 2 × 2) ZrCx unit cells with the rock‐salt structure. Rietveld refinement of the neutron diffraction patterns revealed that the synthesis temperature did not have a significant effect on the degree of vacancy ordering in ZrCx powders. Direct synthesis of ZrC0.6 resulted in the partial ordering of carbon vacancies without the need for extended isothermal annealing as reported in previous experimental studies.
Improving the quality of bowel preparation through an app for inpatients undergoing colonoscopy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guo Bingmei , Zuo Xiuli , Li Zhen , Liu Jun , Xu Na , Li Xiaohui , Zhu Aifang
Published: December 2019

Aims

To explore whether educational information delivered via a medical smartphone app in conjunction with verbal and written instructions, compared with traditional booklet‐based and verbal instructions, could improve the quality of bowel preparation for hospitalized patients undergoing colonoscopy.

Design

A prospective, single‐blinded, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

We performed a prospective, endoscopist‐blinded, randomized, controlled trial at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University in China between October 2017–March 2018. Inpatients who are eligible, based on the inclusion criteria, were randomized into two groups. Both groups received oral and written instructions for bowel preparation. In addition, the smartphone app group received instructions through a medical smartphone app. The primary outcome was the rate of adequate bowel preparation according to the Boston bowel preparation scale score. The secondary outcomes included patient compliance with instructions on how to take laxatives, side effects and rates of adenoma detection.

Results

A total of 293 patients were enrolled in this study. Demographic characteristics were comparable between the two groups. The χ2 test showed that the medical smartphone app group showed significant improvement in the rate of adequate bowel preparation compared with the control group (77.2% vs. 56.8%, p < .001). The adenoma detection rate (ADR) was significantly higher in the smartphone app group than in the control group (21.4% vs. 12.8%, p = .029) based on the χ2 test. The rates of incomplete compliance with instructions were 15.17% in the smartphone app group and 33.11% in the control group (p < .001) based on the χ2 test. The overall adverse events were 23.45% and 37.84% in the smartphone app and control groups, respectively (p = .008), based on the χ2 test.

Conclusion

Instructions provided via a mobile social media app in conjunction with traditional verbal and written methods could improve the quality of bowel preparation, increase the ADR and decrease adverse effects. App instructions could be an effective addition to oral and written instructions for inpatients undergoing colonoscopy.

Impact

This study suggested that clinical personnel could deliver information via smartphone as a powerful addition to traditional educational methods that could improve work efficiency and help patients increase the success rate of bowel preparation.

Trial registration: Chinese clinical trial registration number: ChiCTR1900024666.
Color change, diffusion of hydrogen peroxide, and enamel morphology after in‐office bleaching with violet light or nonthermal atmospheric plasma: An in vitro study
Authors: Kury Matheus , Perches Carolina , da Silva Daylana P. , André Carolina B. , Tabchoury Cínthia P. M. , Giannini Marcelo , Cavalli Vanessa
Published: December 2019

Objective

The aim is to evaluate the effect of violet light (VL) and nonthermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) combined with or without 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP) and 37% carbamide peroxide (CP).

Methods

Bovine crowns were divided into (n = 10) VL, VL/HP, VL/CP, NTAP, NTAP/HP, NTAP/CP, HP, CP, and C (control) groups. Color and whiteness change (CIELAB—Δ
Eab, CIEDE2000—Δ
E00, whiteness index—ΔWID), color parameters (ΔL, Δa, and Δb), and intrapulpal concentration (μL/mL) of HP were assessed by spectrophotometry. Scanning electron microscopy evaluated the morphology of enamel surface. Data were analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance and Tukey (Δ
Eab, ΔE00, ΔWID, ΔL, and μL/mL) and Kruskal‐Wallis and Mann‐Whitney tests (Δ
a and Δ
b, α = 5%).

Results

VL increased ΔEab and ΔWID of CP (P < .05). VL and NTAP alone resulted in perceptible color and whiteness change, but lower than those in the gel‐treated groups (P < .05). Activation modes increased ΔL compared with that of C, but only VL enhanced Δb when applied alone or combined with CP. VL and NTAP did not increase HP diffusion (P > .05) or cause alterations in enamel morphology. However, HP and CP promoted topographical changes.

Conclusion

VL and NTAP changed color to a lesser extent than bleaching gels. VL produced supplementary effectiveness only for CP (ΔEab and ΔWID), without increasing HP diffusion or changing enamel morphology.

Clinical Significance

Although violet LED light and nonthermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) promoted in vitro perceptible bleaching without compromising enamel morphology, bleaching gels (hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide) were more effective than VL or NTAP. VL or NTAP did not increase intrapulpal diffusion of peroxide.
The Santa Clara County Greenbook Story: From Theory to Transformation
Authors: Leonard Edwards Judge , Katherine Lucero Judge
Published: December 2019

This article is an overview of the past 20 years, from a judicial perspective, of how a discreet selection of Greenbook recommendations were implemented in Santa Clara County, California. This historical overview shows that it is possible to take a guidebook written by national experts from many jurisdictions and tailor the intervention to a particular location with the assistance of local leadership. We applied a theoretical framework to government agency interventions and to the very real needs of families, and that process resulted in a profound transformation of practice.
Looking Before We Leap: Building the Evidence for Social Prescribing for Lonely Older Adults
Authors: Savage Rachel D. , Stall Nathan M. , Rochon Paula A.
Published: December 2019

See the response from Mulligan et al
Plant immune signaling: Advancing on two frontiers
Authors: Wang Wei , Feng Baomin , Zhou Jian‐Min , Tang Dingzhong
Published: December 2019

Plants have evolved multiple defense strategies to cope with pathogens, among which plant immune signaling that relies on cell‐surface localized and intracellular receptors takes fundamental roles. Exciting breakthroughs were made recently on the signaling mechanisms of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and intracellular nucleotide‐binding site (NBS) and leucine‐rich repeat (LRR) domain receptors (NLRs). This review summarizes the current view of PRRs activation, emphasizing the most recent discoveries about PRRs’ dynamic regulation and signaling mechanisms directly leading to downstream molecular events including mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and calcium (Ca2+) burst. Plants also have evolved intracellular NLRs to perceive the presence of specific pathogen effectors and trigger more robust immune responses. We also discuss the current understanding of the mechanisms of NLR activation, which has been greatly advanced by recent breakthroughs including structures of the first full‐length plant NLR complex, findings of NLR sensor‐helper pairs and novel biochemical activity of Toll/interleukin‐1 receptor (TIR) domain.
Role of somite patterning in the formation of Weberian apparatus and pleural rib in zebrafish
Authors: Akama Kagari , Ebata Kanami , Maeno Akiteru , Taminato Tomohito , Otosaka Shiori , Gengyo‐Ando Keiko , Nakai Junichi , Yamasu Kyo , Kawamura Akinori
Published: December 2019

In the vertebrate body, a metameric structure is present along the anterior–posterior axis. Zebrafish tbx6−/− larvae, in which somite boundaries do not form during embryogenesis, were shown to exhibit abnormal skeletal morphology such as rib, neural arch and hemal arch. In this study, we investigated the role of somite patterning in the formation of anterior vertebrae and ribs in more detail. Using three‐dimensional computed tomography scans, we found that anterior vertebrae including the Weberian apparatus were severely affected in tbx6−/− larvae. In addition, pleural ribs of tbx6 mutants exhibited severe defects in the initial ossification, extension of ossification, and formation of parapophyses. Two‐colour staining revealed that bifurcation of ribs was caused by fusion or branching of ribs in tbx6−/−. The parapophyses in tbx6−/− juvenile fish showed irregular positioning to centra and abnormal attachment to ribs. Furthermore, we found that the ossification of the distal portion of ribs proceeded along myotome boundaries even in irregularly positioned myotome boundaries. These results provide evidence of the contribution of somite patterning to the formation of the Weberian apparatus and rib in zebrafish.
Apolipoprotein B48 metabolism in chylomicrons and very low‐density lipoproteins and its role in triglyceride transport in normo‐ and hypertriglyceridemic human subjects
Authors: Björnson E. , Packard C.J. , Adiels M. , Andersson L. , Matikainen N. , Söderlund S. , Kahri J. , Hakkarainen A. , Lundbom N. , Lundbom J. , Sihlbom C. , Thorsell A. , Zhou H. , Taskinen M.‐R. , Borén J.
Published: December 2019

Background

Renewed interest in triglyceride‐rich lipoproteins as causative agents in cardiovascular disease mandates further exploration of the integrated metabolism of chylomicrons and very low‐density lipoproteins (VLDL).

Methods

Novel tracer techniques and an integrated multi‐compartmental model were used to determine the kinetics of apoB48‐ and apoB100‐containing particles in the chylomicron and VLDL density intervals in 15 subjects with a wide range of plasma triglyceride levels.

Results

Following a fat‐rich meal, apoB48 appeared in the chylomicron, VLDL1 and VLDL2 fractions in all subjects. Chylomicrons cleared rapidly from the circulation but apoB48‐containing VLDL accumulated, and over the day were 3‐fold higher in those with high versus low plasma triglyceride. ApoB48‐containing particles were secreted directly into both the chylomicron and VLDL fractions at rates that were similar across the plasma triglyceride range studied. During fat absorption, whilst most triglyceride entered the circulation in chylomicrons, the majority of apoB48 particles were secreted into the VLDL density range.

Conclusion

The intestine secretes apoB48‐containing particles not only as chylomicrons but also directly into the VLDL1 and VLDL2 density ranges both in the basal state and during dietary lipid absorption. Over the day, apoB48‐containing particles appear to comprise about 20–25% of circulating VLDL and, especially in those with elevated triglycerides, form part of a slowly cleared ‘remnant’ particle population, thereby potentially increasing CHD risk. These findings provide a metabolic understanding of the potential consequences for increased CHD risk when slowed lipolysis leads to the accumulation of remnants, especially in individuals with hypertriglyceridemia.