bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PWD/Ph-Encoded Genetic Variants Modulate the Cellular Wnt/β-Catenin Response to Suppress ApcMin-Triggered Intestinal Tumor Formation
Authors: Farrall Alexandra L. , Lienhard Matthias , Grimm Christina , Kuhl Heiner , Sluka Susanna H.M. , Caparros Marta , Forejt Jiri , Timmermann Bernd , Herwig Ralf , Herrmann Bernhard G. , Morkel Markus
Published: November 2020

Genetic predisposition affects the penetrance of tumor-initiating mutations, such as APC mutations that stabilize β-catenin and cause intestinal tumors in mice and humans. However, the mechanisms involved in genetically predisposed penetrance are not well understood. Here, we analyzed tumor multiplicity and gene expression in tumor-prone ApcMin/+ mice on highly variant C57BL/6J (B6) and PWD/Ph (PWD) genetic backgrounds. (B6 × PWD) F1 APCMin offspring mice were largely free of intestinal adenoma, and several chromosome substitution (consomic) strains carrying single PWD chromosomes on the B6 genetic background displayed reduced adenoma numbers. Multiple dosage-dependent modifier loci on PWD chromosome 5 each contributed to tumor suppression. Activation of β-catenin–driven and stem cell–specific gene expression in the presence of ApcMin or following APC loss remained moderate in intestines carrying PWD chromosome 5, suggesting that PWD variants restrict adenoma initiation by controlling stem cell homeostasis. Gene expression of modifier candidates and DNA methylation on chromosome 5 were predominantly cis controlled and largely reflected parental patterns, providing a genetic basis for inheritance of tumor susceptibility. Human SNP variants of several modifier candidates were depleted in colorectal cancer genomes, suggesting that similar mechanisms may also affect the penetrance of cancer driver mutations in humans. Overall, our analysis highlights the strong impact that multiple genetic variants acting in networks can exert on tumor development.

Significance:

These findings in mice show that, in addition to accidental mutations, cancer risk is determined by networks of individual gene variants.
Regulatory T Cells Play an Important Role in the Prevention of Murine Melanocytic Nevi and Melanomas
Authors: Nasti Tahseen H. , Yusuf Nabiha , Sherwani Mohammad Asif , Athar Mohammad , Timares Laura , Elmets Craig A.
Published: November 2020

Melanocytic nevi are benign proliferations of pigment cells that can occasionally develop into melanomas. There is a significant correlation between increased nevus numbers and melanoma development. Our previous reports revealed that 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) and 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) induced dysplastic nevi in C3H/HeN mice, with a potential to transform into melanomas. To understand the immune mechanisms behind this transformation, we applied increasing DMBA doses followed by TPA to the skin of C3H/HeN mice. We observed that increased doses of DMBA correlated well with increased numbers of nevi. The increased DMBA dose induced diminished immune responses and promoted the expansion of regulatory T cells (Treg) that resulted in increased IL10 and reduced IFNγ levels. Mice with increased nevus numbers had loss of p16 expression. These mice had increased migration of melanocytic cells to lymph nodes (LN) and a greater percent of LNs produced immortalized melanocytic cell lines. DMBA-induced immunosuppression was lost in CD4-knockout (KO) mice. Lymphocytes in the CD4KO mice produced less IL10 than CD8KO mice. Furthermore, CD4KO mice had significantly reduced nevus numbers and size compared with wild-type and CD8KO mice. These results suggest that Tregs play a vital role in the incidence of nevi and their progression to melanoma.

Prevention Relevance: There has been little progress in developing novel strategies for preventing premalignant dysplastic nevi from becoming melanomas. In this study in mice, regulatory-T cells enhanced progression of benign nevi to malignant melanomas; and by inhibiting their activity, melanomas could be retarded. The findings identify new possibilities for melanoma prevention in high risk individuals.
Successful Treatment of Hard Corns in Two Patients Using Microwave Energy
Authors: Bristow Ivan R. , Webb Christopher J.
Published: November 2020

Corns are a common foot problem accounting for nearly half of all problems seen within podiatry and chiropody clinics. Hard corns are concentrated areas of hyperkeratosis within the stratum corneum, typically found on the weight-bearing (plantar) surfaces of the feet. For many patients, they are a source of pain and have been shown to negatively affect a patient’s activity and quality of life. Most of the currently available treatments are short-lived in their effectiveness, with corns frequently being recurrent, requiring repeated visits to remove the painful lesions. The use of handheld microwave devices indicated for surface applications has demonstrated effectiveness in clearing recalcitrant plantar warts and significantly reducing the pain associated with them. The authors report 2 cases of patients with persistent and painful plantar corns who underwent microwave treatment of their plantar corns with a successful, lasting reduction in pain levels after the intervention. Further work is required to fully assess the potential of this treatment modality in the management of painful plantar corns.
Increased Glomerular Hydrostatic Pressure is Associated with Tubular Creatinine Reabsorption in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Tsuda Akihiro , Ishimura Eiji , Machiba Yuri , Uedono Hideki , Nakatani Shinya , Mori Katsuhito , Uchida Junji , Emoto Masanori
Published: November 2020

Background: Cr is secreted by the proximal tubules and thus Cr clearance (Ccr) can overestimate inulin clearance (Cin). However, in some cases, Ccr can even underestimate Cin. This suggests that Cr could be reabsorbed in the tubuli. We examined the clinical parameters that are associated with tubular Cr reabsorption. Methods: In 80 kidney donor candidates (53.9 ± 13.2 years, 29 males), Cin and para-aminohippuric acid clearance were measured simultaneously. Intrarenal hemodynamic parameters were calculated by Gomez’s formulae. To quantify the secretory component of Ccr (SFcr), it was calculated as follows: SFcr = (Ccr − Cin)/Ccr. Results: Twenty-five subjects (31.3%) showed SFcr values <0. SFcr that correlated significantly and negatively with efferent arteriolar resistance (Re) and glomerular hydrostatic pressure (Pglo) (Re: r = −0.30, p = 0.008; Pglo: r = −0.28, p = 0.025). In multiple regression analyses, Re and Pglo were significantly and negatively associated with SFcr after adjustment for other confounders. Conclusions: These findings suggest that tubular reabsorption of Cr can occur in some cases. Intrarenal glomerular hemodynamic burden may be related to tubular creatinine reabsorption, which possibly leads to lower Ccr values.
Paediatric High-Grade Intracranial Mesenchymal Chondrosarcoma: A Case Report with 6 Years of Follow-Up without Recurrence
Authors: Afşer Kemal Alper , İştemen İsmail , Arslan Ali , Ökten Ali Ihsan
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Intracranial mesenchymal chondrosarcoma (MSC) is an extremely rare tumour that constitutes only 0.015% of all central nervous system tumours. These tumours usually originate from skull base synchondrosis and are often observed in young adults during their second and third decades of life. Despite the absence of a consensus regarding adjuvant radiotherapy, radical excision remains crucial for the prognosis of MSC. Case Presentation: We herein present the case of a young male patient with intracranial MSC, a malignant tumour, for which no consensus regarding its treatment has yet been established. The patient underwent radical excision followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. Histological analysis revealed a poorly differentiated tumour containing necrotic areas. Notably, no signs of recurrence had been observed after 6 years. Conclusion: The absence of recurrence over a long follow-up duration suggests the importance of radical excision and adjuvant radiotherapy.
Surgical Resection versus Re-Ablation for Intrahepatic Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Initial Ablation Therapy
Authors: Wang Yongjin , Liao Yadi , Liu Wenwu , Zhang Yuanping , Yuan Yichuan , Qiu Yuxiong , Qiu Jiliang , Yang Zhiwen , He Wei , Wang Chenwei , Li Kai , Shi Yunxing , Zuo Dinglan , Yuan Yunfei , Li Binkui
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims: Whether surgical resection or repeated ablation should be recommended for intrahepatic recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) conforming to the Milan criteria after initial ablation remains unclear. In this study, we compared the outcomes of patients who underwent surgical resection with those who underwent re-ablation for recurrent HCC after initial curative-intent ablation. Methods: The data of 28 and 98 patients who underwent surgical resection and re-ablation, respectively, for recurrent HCC after initial ablation between January 2003 and 2017 were analyzed using propensity score matching. Results: Before matching, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 95.7, 83.0, and 74.4% for the ablation group, compared to 92.9, 89.1, and 70.9% for the resection group (p = 0.490). The corresponding disease-free survival (DFS) rates were 67.5, 40.1, and 25.6% for the ablation group and were 85.4, 59.9, and 53.3% for the resection group (p = 0.018). After matching, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates for the ablation and resection group were 95.2, 85.5 and 81.8% versus 96.0, 96.0, and 76.4%, respectively (p = 0.550). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year DFS rates were 58.0, 39.5, and 29.9% for the ablation group and were 95.8, 67.2, and 59.8% for the resection group (p = 0.004). Cox proportional hazards model identified surgical resection as the only significant prognostic factor for DFS but not for OS. Conclusion: For intrahepatic recurrent HCC patients after initial ablation, surgical resection could provide better DFS than re-ablation, while no difference in OS was observed between the 2 treatment groups.
Dendritic Cells of Leukemic Origin: Specialized Antigen-Presenting Cells as Potential Treatment Tools for Patients with Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Amberger Daniel Christoph , Schmetzer Helga Maria
Published: November 2020

The prognosis of elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and high-grade myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is limited due to the lack of therapy options and high relapse rates. Dendritic cell (DC)-based immunotherapy seems to be a promising treatment tool. DC are potent antigen-presenting cells and play a pivotal role on the interface of the innate and the adaptive immune system. Myeloid leukemia blasts can be converted to DC of leukemic origin (DCleu), expressing costimulatory molecules along with the whole leukemic antigen repertoire of individual patients. These generated DCleu are potent stimulators of various immune reactive cells and increase antileukemic immunity ex vivo. Here we review the generating process of DC/DCleu from leukemic peripheral blood mononuclear cells as well as directly from leukemic whole blood with “minimized” Kits to simulate physiological conditions ex vivo. The purpose of adoptive cell transfer of DC/DCleu as a vaccination strategy is discussed. A new potential therapy option with Kits for patients with myeloid leukemia, which would render an adoptive DC/DCleu transfer unnecessary, is presented. In summary, DC/DCleu-based therapies seem to be promising treatment tools for patients with AML or MDS but ongoing research including trials in animals and humans have to be performed.
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Regulates the Proopiomelanocortin Neurons of the Arcuate Nucleus both Directly and Indirectly via Presynaptic Action
Authors: Péterfi Zoltán , Szilvásy-Szabó Anett , Farkas Erzsébet , Ruska Yvette , Pyke Charles , Knudsen Lotte Bjerre , Fekete Csaba
Published: November 2020

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) exerts its anorexigenic effect at least partly via the proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons of the arcuate (ARC) nucleus. These neurons are known to express GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R). The aim of the study was to determine whether in addition to its direct effect, GLP-1 also modulates how neuronal inputs can regulate the POMC neurons by acting on presynaptic terminals, ultrastructural and electrophysiological studies were performed on tissues of adult male mice. GLP-1R-immunoreactivity was associated with the cell membrane of POMC neurons and with axon terminals forming synapses on these cells. The GLP-1 analog exendin 4 (Ex4) markedly increased the firing rate of all examined POMC neurons and depolarized these cells. These effects of Ex4 were prevented by intracellular administration of the G-protein blocker guanosine 5′-[β-thio]diphosphate trilithium salt (GDP-β-S). Ex4 also influenced the miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs) and evoked PSCs of POMC neurons. Ex4 increased the frequency of miniature excitatory PSCs (EPSCs) and the amplitude of the evoked EPSCs in half of the POMC neurons. Ex4 increased the frequency of miniature inhibitory PSCs (IPSCs) and the amplitudes of the evoked IPSCs in one-third of neurons. These effects of Ex4 were not influenced by intracellular GDP-β-S, indicating that GLP-1 signaling directly stimulates a population of axon terminals innervating the POMC neurons. The different Ex4 responsiveness of their mPSCs indicates the heterogeneity of the POMC neurons of the ARC. In summary, our data demonstrate that in addition to its direct excitatory effect on the POMC neurons, GLP-1 signaling also facilitates the presynaptic input of these cells by acting on presynaptically localized GLP-1R.
Dual motor disability in an outpatient rehabilitation center
Authors: Makhoul Marina Portugal , Santana Kelly de Jesus , Lopes Uleida de Brito Lima , Rodrigues Nádia Baggio Barreto , Dell’Aglio Christina de Farias , De Oliveira Clarissa Barros , Ingham Sheila Jean McNeill
Published: November 2020

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of dual motor disability and to identify social, demographic, clinical and rehabilitation-related characteristics. Methods: Retrospective descriptive study in an outpatient rehabilitation center with individuals with dual motor disability from major lower limb amputation associated to post-stroke hemiparesis. Social demographic, clinical and rehabilitation characteristics data were collected from medical record. Results: The prevalence of dual motor disability was 5.4%. Seventy-six subjects were evaluated, 69.7% were male, with a mean age of 65.6 ± 9.3 years. Hypertension was present in 96.1% of subjects, and 25% were smokers. Over 73% of patients had had the stroke prior to amputation. Time elapsed between lesions had a median of 23 months, and sequelae were ipsilateral in 51.3% of patients. Of these, 54 patients (71%) were referred to physical therapy. The time interval between dual disability and the beginning of therapy was 28 months, with total rehabilitation time of 14.3 months. At rehabilitation completion, 36% achieved their goals but 30% were discharges consequent to lack of compliance. Conclusion: The prevalence of dual motor disability due to hemiparesis secondary to stroke and lower limb amputation in a rehabilitation center was 5.4%. Our population showed singular characteristics related to the rehabilitation process, such as a long time between the occurrence of dual disability and the beginning of rehabilitation, and long rehabilitation period.
Residenciais de idosos durante a crise do COVID-19
Authors: Blasco Pablo González , Levites Marcelo Rozenfeld , Moreto Graziela , Janaudis Marco Aurelio , De Benedetto Maria Auxiliadora Craice
Published: November 2020

A atual pandemia pelo COVID-19 nos faz viver tempos difíceis e inéditos. Os esforços de todos os profissionais de saúde, cada um nas suas competências, são essenciais. Enquanto pesquisadores e cientistas se debatem procurando recursos terapêuticos eficazes, aqueles que estão na linha de frente devotam seus melhores esforços no cuidado clinico dos pacientes afetados. A cada dia que passa mostra-se imprescindível o cuidado da própria equipe de saúde. Não apenas o cuidado físico (para o qual se tomam todas as providências possíveis em cada caso) mas também da saúde mental. Um elemento da equipe de saúde desanimado, pessimista, sem perspectiva é também um fator de crise, provoca insegurança nos pacientes e nas famílias  -mais ainda da que lhes chega habitualmente da mídia - e  nada ajuda na equipe de saúde. Torna-se preciso levantar o moral dos que lidam diariamente com esta ameaça de proporções antes nunca vistas.
Human Aortic Valve Interstitial Cells Display Proangiogenic Properties During Calcific Aortic Valve Disease
Authors: Gendron Nicolas , Rosa Mickael , Blandinieres Adeline , Sottejeau Yoann , Rossi Elisa , Van Belle Eric , Idelcadi Salim , Lecourt Séverine , Vincentelli André , Cras Audrey , Jashari Ramadan , Chocron Richard , Baudouin Yaël , Pamart Thibault , Bièche Ivan , Nevo Nathalie , Cholley Bernard , Rancic Jeanne , Staels Bart , Gaussem Pascale , Dupont Annabelle , Carpentier Alain , Susen Sophie , Smadja David M.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The study’s aim was to analyze the capacity of human valve interstitial cells (VICs) to participate in aortic valve angiogenesis.

Approach and Results:

VICs were isolated from human aortic valves obtained after surgery for calcific aortic valve disease and from normal aortic valves unsuitable for grafting (control VICs). We examined VIC in vitro and in vivo potential to differentiate in endothelial and perivascular lineages. VIC paracrine effect was also examined on human endothelial colony-forming cells. A pathological VIC (VIC
p
) mesenchymal-like phenotype was confirmed by CD90
+
/CD73
+
/CD44
+
expression and multipotent-like differentiation ability. When VIC
p
were cocultured with endothelial colony-forming cells, they formed microvessels by differentiating into perivascular cells both in vivo and in vitro. VIC
p
and control VIC conditioned media were compared using serial ELISA regarding quantification of endothelial and angiogenic factors. Higher expression of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)-A was observed at the protein level in VIC
p
-conditioned media and confirmed at the mRNA level in VIC
p
compared with control VIC. Conditioned media from VIC
p
induced in vitro a significant increase in endothelial colony-forming cell proliferation, migration, and sprouting compared with conditioned media from control VIC. These effects were inhibited by blocking VEGF-A with blocking antibody or siRNA approach, confirming VIC
p
involvement in angiogenesis by a VEGF-A dependent mechanism.

Conclusions:

We provide here the first proof of an angiogenic potential of human VICs isolated from patients with calcific aortic valve disease. These results point to a novel function of VIC
p
in valve vascularization during calcific aortic valve disease, with a perivascular differentiation ability and a VEGF-A paracrine effect. Targeting perivascular differentiation and VEGF-A to slow calcific aortic valve disease progression warrants further investigation.
Sensitivity of the Edinburgh Criteria for Lobar Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Hereditary Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
Authors: van Etten Ellis S. , Kaushik Kanishk , van Zwet Erik W. , Voigt Sabine , van Walderveen Marianne A.A. , van Buchem Mark A. , Terwindt Gisela M. , Wermer Marieke J.H.
Published: November 2020

Background and Purpose:

The Edinburgh computed tomography and genetic criteria enable diagnosis of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) associated lobar intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) but have not been validated in living patients. We assessed the sensitivity of the Edinburgh criteria in patients with acute lobar ICH due to Dutch-type hereditary CAA; a genetic and pure form of CAA.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed computed tomography-scans from a cohort of consecutive Dutch-type hereditary CAA patients who presented with ≥1 episode(s) of acute lobar ICH at the Leiden University Medical Center. Presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and finger-like projections (FLP) were determined. Association of SAH and FLP with ICH volume was analyzed using multivariate linear regression.

Results:

We included 55 Dutch-type hereditary CAA patients (mean age 56 years, 55% men) with a total of 107 episodes of acute lobar ICH. SAH was present in 82/107 (76%) and FLP in 62/107 (58%), resulting in a sensitivity of 76% for SAH and 58% for FLP. In 56 (52%), both markers were present. Nineteen (18%) lobar ICH showed no SAH extension or FLP. ICH volume was significantly associated with presence of SAH (median volume 4 versus 28 mL;
P
=0.001) and presence of FLP (median volume 7 versus 39 mL;
P
<0.001). With an ICH volume of ≥40 mL, the sensitivity of the presence of both SAH and FLP was >81% (95% CI, 70%–92%), whereas in ICH volumes <15 mL the sensitivity was <50%.

Conclusions:

The computed tomography-based Edinburgh criteria seem to be a sensitive diagnostic test for CAA-associated lobar ICH, although they should be used with caution in small-sized lobar ICH.
Expansive Legal Interpretation and Muslim Judges’ Approach to Polygamy in Indonesia
Authors: Nurlaelawati Euis
Published: November 2020

Similar to other Muslim-majority countries, Indonesia has undertaken legislative changes in the domain of family law, including on polygamy. In practice, however, these legal reforms continue to be challenged by a number of judges, specifically those regarding polygamy. This paper looks at the extent to which judges meet husbands’ proposals for polygamy. It investigates judges’ legal interpretation of the legal grounds specified for polygamous marriage and how judges have deployed the notions of maslahah (public good) and mafsadah (harm), with a view to fortifying their legal decisions. It will be argued that the judges’ approach remains shaped by classical Islamic legal doctrine and that they subscribe to free and supplementary legal interpretation, or ijtihad, as well as contemporary notions of maslahah, resulting in conservative legal decisions that uphold gender asymmetries. It is also found that, even though many women may choose to share husbands rather than to be divorced, judges seem to ignore the fact that the practice of polygamy is detrimental to the dissolution of the marriage through wife-petitioned divorce.
Empirical foundations for an integrated study of language evolution
Authors: Roberts Gareth , Sneller Betsy
Published: November 2020

Half a century ago, Uriel Weinreich, William Labov, and Marvin Herzog laid out a programmatic vision for the study of language change. This included establishing five fundamental problems for the field and a radical shift from a focus on idiolects to a focus on population-level change (grounded in their concept of orderly heterogeneity). They also expressed an explicit desire to see an integrated evolutionary study of language change. In spite of this, the newer fields of language evolution and cultural evolution make little contact with the field of sociolinguistics that emerged out of their work. Here we lay out a program, grounded in their five problems, for a more integrated future. We situate each problem in modern sociolinguistics and identify promising points for theoretical exchange, making comparisons with Tinbergen’s four questions, which play a similar role in the evolutionary sciences. Finally, we propose cultural-evolutionary experiments for making empirical progress.
Networked Pantheon: a Relational Database of Globally Famous People
Authors: Beytía Pablo , Schobin Janosch
Published: November 2020

This article presents the Networked Pantheon, a relational database of biographies of globally famous people spanning the last 5,500 years of human history. This information source is intended to complement Pantheon 1.0 (Yu et al., 2016), a dataset that includes temporal, spatial, gender, and occupational information on 11,341 world-renowned people – defined as those who have biographies available in more than 25 languages on Wikipedia. The Networked Pantheon adds information about the biographical links between these historical figures, compiled from hyperlinks between the biographies in the English Wikipedia. This digital method enables techniques from network analysis to be used in studying the biographical relationships between globally famous people. Thus, distinct measures of historical centrality can be calculated for individuals, cities, countries, genders, and occupations. The Networked Pantheon includes indicators of figure centrality in the network of biographical references and provides an approximation of the information flows between various territories, genders, and occupations of famous people over time.
The Post-Apartheid Labour Market Series
Authors: Kerr Andrew , Wittenberg Martin
Published: November 2020

The Post-Apartheid Labour Market Series (palms) is a compilation of microdata from 69 household surveys conducted in South Africa. The dataset and the code used to create the data are publicly available from DataFirst, a data repository at the University of Cape Town (www.doi.org/10.25828/gtr1-8r20). To harmonise the data required understanding the differences across the surveys, which has generated new knowledge about the South African labour market.
A new species of Oryctanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia

Authors: CARMONA-GALLEGO ISABEL , MURILLO-SERNA JHON S. , ROLDÁN FRANCISCO J. , ALZATE-GUARÍN FERNANDO
Published: November 2020

A new species of the hemiparasitic genus Oryctanthus from Colombia is described and illustrated. This species is known only from two nearby localities and it can be distinguished from similar species by its terete stems being grayish at maturity, coriaceous leaves with secondary inconspicuous venation and completely furfuraceous inflorescence peduncles, which are 3 or 4 times longer than the fertile portion of the inflorescence. Taxonomic affinities of this species and its conservation status are also discussed.
A new species of Fulvifomes (Basidiomycota) from China

Authors: LIU GUO-HUA , JI XIAO-HONG , WANG YONG-PING , CHEN JIA-JIA
Published: November 2020

Fulvifomes submerrillii (Hymenochaetaceae, Basidiomycota) is described from China based on both of morphological evidence and molecular data. The new species is characterized by perennial, pileate basidiocarps, encrusted, smooth pileal surface, 6–7 pores per mm with thick dissepiments, a dimitic hyphal system with interwoven skeletal hyphae, absence of setae or setal hyphae, ventricose cystidioles, and broadly ellipsoid, yellowish brown, thick-walled, smooth basidiospores, 4.7–5 × 3.7–4 μm. Phylogenetic analysis inferred from ITS and nLSU sequences indicates that the new species forms a separate well-supported clade, closely related to F. merrillii. However, F. merrillii has larger pores (4–5 per mm), a subdimitic hyphal structure in context, the contextual skeletal hyphae which regularly arranged and become swollen in KOH, and slightly longer (4.5–6 μm long) basidiospores. Moreover, one new combination (F. rigidus) is revived from synonym under Inonotus rigidus.
A new species of Eugenia sect. Pilothecium (Myrtaceae) from the Atlantic Forest inselbergs of Southeastern Brazil

Authors: FARIA JAIR E.Q. , FERNANDES THIAGO
Published: November 2020

Eugenia gracilifolia (Myrtaceae), a new species belonging to Eugenia sect. Pilothecium is here described and illustrated with additional comments on morphology, affinities, and conservation. The new species is currently known only from the top of an Atlantic Forest inselberg in the municipality of Teófilo Otoni, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is mainly recognized by its trunk with smooth or rough bark (a novelty for the section), young twigs, abaxial side of the leaves, rachis and flowers densely pubescent, and inflorescences in simple or compound dichasia. The new species is morphologically similar and probably closely related to the widely distributed E. pyriformis differing by its trunk with smooth or rough bark, proportionally longer petioles, leaves with mucronate apex, more delicate inflorescences, obovate flower buds, a larger number of stamens, and pubescent to densely pubescent style.
R2D2: A Region-Based Recursive Doppler Dealiasing Algorithm for Operational Weather Radar
Authors: Feldmann Monika , James Curtis N. , Boscacci Marco , Leuenberger Daniel , Gabella Marco , Germann Urs , Wolfensberger Daniel , Berne Alexis
Published: November 2020

Region-based Recursive Doppler Dealiasing (R2D2) is a novel dealiasing algorithm to unfold Doppler velocity fields obtained by operational radar measurements. It specializes in resolving issues when the magnitude of the gate-to-gate velocity shear approaches or exceeds the Nyquist velocity. This occurs either in highly sheared situations, or when the Nyquist velocity is low. Highly sheared situations, such as convergence lines or mesocyclones, are of particular interest for nowcasting and warnings. R2D2 masks high-shear areas and adds a spatial buffer around them. The areas between the buffers are then identified as continuous regions that lie within the same Nyquist interval. Each region subsequently is assigned its most likely Nyquist interval by applying vertical and temporal continuity constraints, as well as supplemental wind information from an operational mesoscale model. The shear zones are then resolved using 2D continuity in azimuth and range. This 4D procedure is repeated until no further improvement can be achieved. Each iteration with fewer folds identifies fewer but larger continuous regions and less shear zones until an optimum is reached. Residual errors, often related to shear greater than the Nyquist velocity, are contained to small areas within the buffer zones. This approach maximizes operational performance in high-shear situations and restricts errors to minimal areas to mitigate error propagation.
Social capital and health among participants in the cachibol league in Israel
Authors: Baron-Epel Orna , Paldi Yuval , Bord Shiran , Kadish Deborah , Guttman Edna , Moran Daniel S , Tesler Riki
Published: November 2020

The Israeli cachibol league, Mamanet, is a grass roots non-professional community sports club for mothers. Our aim was to assess if participants in the Mamanet League have higher levels of social capital and if social capital and wellbeing improve with time. Two groups were interviewed: a control group not participating in the league and a group of Mamanet participants. The women were interviewed within 3 months of joining (T1) and 13–15 months later (T2). The questionnaire included questions on sociodemographic characteristics, social capital (social support, social involvement, trust) and wellbeing (self-reported health (SRH), psychosomatic symptoms, depressive symptoms). At T1 the participants had higher social capital and SRH scores than the control group and lower psychosomatic and depressive symptoms compared with the control group. Participation in the Mamanet League seems to improve two of the three social capital measures: social support and social involvement, showing an increase among the Mamanet group over time and no change in the control group. Participation in the league had no significant effect on wellbeing during this period. Women that participate in sports clubs may initially have higher social capital; in addition, participation may increase levels of social capital over time.
Prenatal indole-3-carbinol administration activates aryl hydrocarbon receptor-responsive genes and attenuates lung injury in a bronchopulmonary dysplasia model
Authors: Guzmán-Navarro Gabriela , León Mario Bermúdez de , Martín-Estal Irene , Durán Raquel Cuevas-Díaz , Villarreal-Alvarado Laura , Vaquera-Vázquez Anakaren , Cuevas-Cerda Tania , Garza-García Karina , Cuervo-Pérez Luis Eduardo , Barbosa-Quintana Álvaro , Pérez-Saucedo José Eduardo , Lara-Díaz Víctor J , Castorena-Torres Fabiola
Published: November 2020

Hyperoxia−hypoxia exposure is a proposed cause of alveolar developmental arrest in bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants, where mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress vulnerability are increased. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is one of the main activators of the antioxidant enzyme system that protects tissues and systems from damage. The present study aimed to determine if the activation of the AhR signaling pathway by prenatal administration of indole-3-carbinol (I3C) protects rat pups from hyperoxia–hypoxia-induced lung injury. To assess the activation of protein-encoding genes related to the AhR signaling pathway ( Cyp1a1, Cyp1b1, Ugt1a6, Nqo1, and Gsta1), pup lungs were excised at 0, 24, and 72 h after birth, and mRNA expression levels were quantified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays (RT-qPCR). An adapted Ratner's method was used in rats to evaluate radial alveolar counts (RACs) and the degree of fibrosis. The results reveal that the relative expression of AhR-related genes in rat pups of prenatally I3C-treated dams was significantly different from that of untreated dams. The RAC was significantly lower in the hyperoxia–hypoxia group (4.0 ± 1.0) than that in the unexposed control group (8.0 ± 2.0; P <  0.01). When rat pups of prenatally I3C-treated dams were exposed to hyperoxia–hypoxia, an RAC recovery was observed, and the fibrosis index was similar to that of the unexposed control group. A cytokine antibody array revealed an increase in the NF-κB signaling cascade in I3C-treated pups, suggesting that the pathway could regulate the inflammatory process under the stimulus of this compound. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that I3C prenatal treatment activates AhR-responsive genes in pup’s lungs and hence attenuates lung damage caused by hyperoxia–hypoxia exposure in newborns.
Transcriptomic profiles in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Kurvits Lille , Lättekivi Freddy , Reimann Ene , Kadastik-Eerme Liis , Kasterpalu Kristjan M , Kõks Sulev , Taba Pille , Planken Anu
Published: November 2020

Transcriptomics in Parkinson’s disease offers insights into the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease but obtaining brain tissue has limitations. In order to bypass this issue, we profile and compare differentially expressed genes and enriched pathways (KEGG) in two peripheral tissues (blood and skin) of 12 Parkinson’s disease patients and 12 healthy controls using RNA-sequencing technique and validation with RT-qPCR. Furthermore, we compare our results to previous Parkinson’s disease post mortem brain tissue and blood results using the robust rank aggregation method. The results show no overlapping differentially expressed genes or enriched pathways in blood vs. skin in our sample sets (25 vs. 1068 differentially expressed genes with an FDR ≤ 0.05; 1 vs. 9 pathways in blood and skin, respectively). A meta-analysis from previous transcriptomic sample sets using either microarrays or RNA-Seq yields a robust rank aggregation list of cortical gene expression changes with 43 differentially expressed genes; a list of substantia nigra changes with 2 differentially expressed genes and a list of blood changes with 1 differentially expressed gene being statistically significant at FDR ≤ 0.05. In cortex 1, KEGG pathway was enriched, four in substantia nigra and two in blood. None of the differentially expressed genes or pathways overlap between these tissues. When comparing our previously published skin transcription analysis, two differentially expressed genes between the cortex robust rank aggregation and skin overlap. In this study, for the first time a meta-analysis is applied on transcriptomic sample sets in Parkinson’s disease. Simultaneously, it explores the notion that Parkinson’s disease is not just a neuronal tissue disease by exploring peripheral tissues. The comparison of different Parkinson’s disease tissues yields surprisingly few significant differentially expressed genes and pathways, suggesting that divergent gene expression profiles in distinct cell lineages, metabolic and possibly iatrogenic effects create too much transcriptomic noise for detecting significant signal. On the other hand, there are signs that point towards Parkinson’s disease-specific changes in non-neuronal peripheral tissues in Parkinson’s disease, indicating that Parkinson’s disease might be a multisystem disorder.
Dual‐energy computed tomography‐angiography in the evaluation and management of significant multiple pulmonary vein stenoses following atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Simakova Maria A. , Karpova Daria V. , Marukyan Narek V. , Pishchulov Konstantin A. , Mikhaylov Evgeny N.M. , Moiseeva Olga M.
Published: November 2020

A 58‐year‐old male patient with multi‐vessel pulmonary vein (PV) stenosis following atrial fibrillation ablation was referred to a specialized pulmonary hypertension clinic. Chest dual‐energy computed tomography (CT)‐angiography allowed precise diagnosis of two PVs occlusion and three PVs significant stenosis. Iodine maps showed perfusion deficiency and its value for each stenosis, determining the sequence of multiple PV interventions. We suggest iodine CT mapping is a useful tool in the definition of PV stenosis severity and planning staged angioplasty.
Long‐term experience with implantable infusion pumps for intravenous treprostinil in pulmonary arterial hypertension—procedural safety and system‐related complications
Authors: Steringer‐Mascherbauer Regina , Lummersdorfer Maria , Függer Reinhold , Sigmund Elisabeth , Huber Charlotte , Engleder Dagmar , Fröschl Uwe , Aichinger Josef
Published: November 2020

Implantable pumps for intravenous treprostinil provide a promising option to overcome drawbacks of parenteral prostanoid administration with external pumps in pulmonary hypertension. We retrospectively analyzed 85 patients undergoing implantation in a single center since 2010. In our cohort, serious complications were rare, and flow rate increase over time warrants careful monitoring.
Prevalence and risk factors of pulmonary hypertension among adult patients with HIV infection in Ethiopia
Authors: Huluka Dawit Kebede , Mekonnen Desalew , Abebe Sintayehu , Meshesha Amha , Mekonnen Dufera , Deyessa Negussie , Klinger James R. , Ventetuolo Corey E. , Schluger Neil W. , Sherman Charles B. , Amogne Wondwossen
Published: November 2020

Globally, non‐communicable diseases are increasing in people living with HIV. Pulmonary hypertension is a rare non‐communicable disease in people living with HIV with a reported prevalence of <1%. However, data on pulmonary hypertension in people living with HIV from Africa are scarce and are non‐existent from Ethiopia. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and severity of echocardiographic pulmonary hypertension and risk factors associated with pulmonary hypertension in people living with HIV in Ethiopia. A total of 315 consecutive adult people living with HIV followed at the Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital HIV Referral Clinic were enrolled from June 2018 to February 2019. Those with established pulmonary hypertension of known causes were excluded. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, respiratory symptoms, physical findings, physician‐diagnosed lung disease, and possible risk factors. Pulmonary hypertension was defined by a tricuspid regurgitant velocity of ≥2.9 m/sec on transthoracic echocardiography. A tricuspid regurgitant velocity ≥3.5, which translates into a pulmonary arterial pressure/right ventricular systolic pressure of ≥50 mmHg, was considered moderate‐to‐severe pulmonary hypertension. The mean age of the participants was 44.5 ± 9.8 years and 229 (72.7%) were females. Pulmonary hypertension was diagnosed in 44 (14.0%) of participants, of whom 9 (20.5%) had moderate‐to‐severe disease. In those with pulmonary hypertension, 17 (38.6%) were symptomatic: exertional dyspnea, cough, and leg swelling were seen in 12 (27.3%), 9 (20.5%), and 4 (9.1%), respectively. There was no significant difference in those with pulmonary hypertension compared to those without the disease by gender, cigarette smoking, previous history of pulmonary tuberculosis treatment, physician‐diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or bronchial asthma, duration of anti‐retroviral therapy therapy or anti‐retroviral regimen type. Pulmonary hypertension looks to be a frequent complication in people living with HIV in Ethiopia and is often associated with significant cardiopulmonary symptoms. Further studies using right heart catheterization are needed to better determine the etiology and prevalence of pulmonary hypertension in people living with HIV in Ethiopia compared to other countries.
Gender Differences in Endothelial Function and Coronary Vasomotion Abnormalities
Authors: Godo Shigeo , Shimokawa Hiroaki
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

Structural and functional abnormalities of coronary microvasculature, referred to as coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD), have been implicated in a wide range of cardiovascular diseases and have gained growing attention in patients with chest pain with no obstructive coronary artery disease, especially in females. The central mechanisms of coronary vasomotion abnormalities encompass enhanced coronary vasoconstrictive reactivity (ie, coronary spasm), reduced endothelium-dependent and -independent coronary vasodilator capacities, and increased coronary microvascular resistance. The 2 major endothelium-derived relaxing factors, nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH) factors, modulate vascular tone in a distinct vessel size–dependent manner; NO mainly mediates vasodilatation of relatively large, conduit vessels, while EDH factors in small resistance vessels. Endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization–mediated vasodilatation is more prominent in female resistance arteries, where estrogens exert beneficial effects on endothelium-dependent vasodilatation via multiple mechanisms. In the clinical settings, therapeutic approaches targeting NO are disappointing for the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases, where endothelial dysfunction and CMD are substantially involved.

Significance:

In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge on the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of endothelial function and coronary vasomotion abnormalities from bench to bedside, with a special reference to gender differences.

Results:

Recent experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated distinct gender differences in endothelial function and coronary vasomotion abnormalities with major clinical implications. Moreover, recent landmark clinical trials regarding the management of stable coronary artery disease have questioned the benefit of percutaneous coronary intervention, supporting the importance of the coronary microvascular physiology.

Conclusion:

Further characterization and a better understanding of the gender differences in basic vascular biology as well as those in cardiovascular diseases are indispensable to improve health care and patient outcomes in cardiovascular medicine.
A New Method for Type Synthesis of 2R1T and 2T1R 3-DOF Redundant Actuated Parallel Mechanisms with Closed Loop Units
Authors: Li Yongquan , Zhang Yang , Zhang Lijie
Published: November 2020

The current type synthesis of the redundant actuated parallel mechanisms is adding active-actuated kinematic branches on the basis of the traditional parallel mechanisms, or using screw theory to perform multiple getting intersection and union to complete type synthesis. The number of redundant parallel mechanisms obtained by these two methods is limited. In this paper, based on Grassmann line geometry and Atlas method, a novel and effective method for type synthesis of redundant actuated parallel mechanisms (PMs) with closed-loop units is proposed. Firstly, the degree of freedom (DOF) and constraint line graph of the moving platform are determined successively, and redundant lines are added in constraint line graph to obtain the redundant constraint line graph and their equivalent line graph, and a branch constraint allocation scheme is formulated based on the allocation criteria. Secondly, a scheme is selected and redundant lines are added in the branch chains DOF graph to construct the redundant actuated branch chains with closed-loop units. Finally, the branch chains that meet the requirements of branch chains configuration criteria and F&C (degree of freedom & constraint) line graph are assembled. In this paper, two types of 2 rotational and 1 translational (2R1T) redundant actuated parallel mechanisms and one type of 2 translational and 1 rotational (2T1R) redundant actuated parallel mechanisms with few branches and closed-loop units were taken as examples, and 238, 92 and 15 new configurations were synthesized. All the mechanisms contain closed-loop units, and the mechanisms and the actuators both have good symmetry. Therefore, all the mechanisms have excellent comprehensive performance, in which the two rotational DOFs of the moving platform of 2R1T redundant actuated parallel mechanism can be independently controlled. The instantaneous analysis shows that all mechanisms are not instantaneous, which proves the feasibility and practicability of the method.
In vitro differentiation of W8B2+ human cardiac stem cells: gene expression of ionic channels and spontaneous calcium activity
Authors: Ayad Oualid , Al Sayed Zeina R. , Sebille Stéphane , Magaud Christophe , Chapotte-Baldacci Charles-Albert , Jayle Christophe , Faivre Jean-François , Gaborit Nathalie , Chatelier Aurélien , Bois Patrick
Published: November 2020

Background

Human cardiac stem cells expressing the W8B2 marker (W8B2+CSCs) were recently identified and proposed as a new model of multipotent CSCs capable of differentiating into smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells and immature myocytes. Nevertheless, no characterization of ion channel or calcium activity during the differentiation of these stem cells has been reported.

Methods

The objectives of this study were thus to analyze (using the TaqMan Low-Density Array technique) the gene profile of W8B2+CSCs pertaining to the regulation of ion channels, transporters and other players involved in the calcium homeostasis of these cells. We also analyzed spontaneous calcium activity (via the GCaMP calcium probe) during the in vitro differentiation of W8B2+CSCs into cardiac myocytes.

Results

Our results show an entirely different electrophysiological genomic profile between W8B2+CSCs before and after differentiation. Some specific nodal genes, such as Tbx3, HCN, ICaT, L, KV, and NCX, are overexpressed after this differentiation. In addition, we reveal spontaneous calcium activity or a calcium clock whose kinetics change during the differentiation process. A pharmacological study carried out on differentiated W8B2+CSCs showed that the NCX exchanger and IP3 stores play a fundamental role in the generation of these calcium oscillations.

Conclusions

Taken together, the present results provide important information on ion channel expression and intrinsic calcium dynamics during the differentiation process of stem cells expressing the W8B2 marker.