bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced leukocyte telomere lengths and sirtuin 1 gene expression in long‐term survivors of type 1 diabetes: A Dialong substudy
Authors: Opstad Trine Baur , Berg Tore Julsrud , Holte Kristine Bech , Arnesen Harald , Solheim Svein , Seljeflot Ingebjørg
Published: November 2020

Aims/Introduction

The shortening of leukocyte telomere length with age has been associated with coronary disease, whereas the association with type 1 diabetes is unclear. We aimed to explore telomere lengths in diabetes patients with regard to coronary artery disease, compared with healthy controls. The longevity factors sirtuin 1 and growth‐differentiating factor 11 were investigated accordingly.

Materials and Methods

We carried out a cross‐sectional study of 102 participants with long‐term type 1 diabetes and 75 controls (mean age 62 and 63 years, respectively), where 88 cases and 60 controls without diagnosed coronary artery disease completed computed tomography coronary angiography. Telomere lengths and gene expression of sirtuin 1 and growth‐differentiating factor 11 were quantified in leukocytes.

Results

Telomere lengths and sirtuin 1 were reduced in diabetes patients versus controls, medians (25th to 75th percentiles): 0.97 (0.82–1.15) versus 1.08 (0.85–1.29) and 0.88 (0.65–1.14) vs 1.01 (0.78–1.36), respectively, adjusted P < 0.05, both. Previous coronary artery disease in diabetes patients (n = 15) was associated with lower sirtuin 1 and growth‐differentiating factor 11 messenger ribonucleic acid expression (adjusted P < 0.03, both). In the combined diabetes and control group, previous artery coronary disease (n = 18) presented with significantly shorter telomeres (adjusted P = 0.038). Newly diagnosed obstructive coronary artery disease, defined as >50% stenosis, was not associated with the investigated variables.

Conclusions

Long‐term type 1 diabetes presented with reduced telomeres and sirtuin 1 expression, with additional reduction in diabetes patients with previous coronary artery disease, showing their importance for cardiovascular disease development with potential as novel biomarkers in diabetes and coronary artery disease.
Molecular forms of neurogranin in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Nazir Faisal Hayat , Camporesi Elena , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Lashley Tammaryn , Toomey Christina E. , Kvartsberg Hlin , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Becker Bruno
Published: November 2020

Neurogranin (Ng) is a 78 amino acid neuronal protein and a biomarker candidate for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Ng has been suggested to bind to calmodulin and phosphatidic acid via its centrally located IQ domain. Ng is cleaved within this functionally important domain, yielding the majority of fragments identified in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), suggesting that cleavage of Ng may be a mechanism to regulate its function. Up to now, Ng has been shown to be present in CSF as both C‐terminal fragments as well as full‐length protein. To obtain an overview of the different molecular forms of Ng present in CSF, we show by size exclusion chromatography (SEC), immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, and MS that Ng is present in CSF as several molecular forms. Besides monomeric full‐length Ng, also higher molecular weight forms of Ng, and C‐terminal‐ and previously not identified N‐terminal fragments were observed. We found by immunodepletion that C‐terminal peptides contribute on average to ~50% of the total‐Ng ELISA signal in CSF samples. There were no differences in the overall C‐terminal fragment/total‐Ng ratios between samples from AD and control groups. In addition, we found that monomeric Ng and its C‐terminal fragments bind to heparin via a heparin‐binding motif, which might be of relevance for their export mechanism from neurons. Taken together, this study highlights the presence of several molecular forms of Ng in CSF, comprising monomeric full‐length Ng, and N‐ and C‐terminal truncations of Ng, as well as larger forms of still unknown composition.

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Work Schedule Characteristics, Missed Nursing Care, and Organizational Commitment Among Hospital Nurses in Korea
Authors: Cho Hyeonmi , Han Kihye , Ryu Eunjung , Choi Eunsook
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study describes Korean nurses’ work schedule characteristics and identifies their components to investigate associations of work schedule components with missed nursing care and organizational commitment.

Design

This cross‐sectional secondary analysis used survey data of 1,057 nurses in 111 units at six hospitals in South Korea. Data were collected between April 2017 and March 2018.

Methods

A self‐administered survey, including seven work schedule characteristic items, the Korean version of the MISSCARE Survey, and the Korean version of the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire, was employed. To construct independent components of work schedule characteristics, a principal component analysis was performed. The associations of work schedule components with missed nursing care and organizational commitment were analyzed using multiple linear regression models with generalized estimating equation methods.

Findings

The average number of daily work hours was 9.7. Nearly half of the study population worked while sick once or more per month. The two components of nurses’ work schedule characteristics were “long work hours” and “lack of rest,” and these components showed variations between units. Unhealthy work schedule components were linked to frequently missed nursing care and decreased organizational commitment.

Conclusions

This study showed that proper work hours and adequate rest are important to reduce missed nursing care tasks and enhance organizational commitment, both of which are critical for better patient care and organizational outcomes.

Clinical Relevance

Healthcare organizations should provide adequate nursing staff and assign reasonable workloads. Furthermore, hospitals should periodically monitor the work schedule characteristics of nurses and actively intervene in cases of scheduling issues to resolve them.
Biorevitalization of the skin with skin boosters: Concepts, variables, and limitations
Authors: Arora Gulhima , Arora Sandeep , Sadoughifar Roxanna , Batra Neha
Published: November 2020

Aging leads to diminished capacity in the functionality of all the skin layers, which in turn leads to a structurally weak and esthetically unappealing skin which is dull, dehydrated, and inelastic. Skin boosters can be defined as biological materials or bio‐actives that help or encourage the skin to increase or improve its function. Boosters have been used in treating skin structural changes associated with aging as well as other factors such as corticosteroid‐induced skin atrophy. Restoring the loss in skin nourishment and vital components is the concept involved in biorevitalization of the skin. The authors aim to present an update and a short review of skin boosters in this commentary.
Individually rational rules for the division problem when the number of units to be allotted is endogenous
Authors: Bergantiños Gustavo , Massó Jordi , Neme Alejandro
Published: November 2020

We study individually rational rules to be used to allot, among a group of agents, a perfectly divisible good that is freely available only in whole units. A rule is individually rational if, at each preference profile, each agent finds that her allotment is at least as good as any whole unit of the good. We study and characterize two individually rational and efficient families of rules, whenever agents' preferences are symmetric single‐peaked on the set of possible allotments. Rules in the two families are in addition envy‐free, but they differ on whether envy‐freeness is considered on losses or on awards. Our main result states that (a) the family of constrained equal losses rules coincides with the class of all individually rational and efficient rules that satisfy justified envy‐freeness on losses and (b) the family of constrained equal awards rules coincides with the class of all individually rational and efficient rules that satisfy envy‐freeness on awards.
Toward A Theory Of Supply Chain Entrepreneurial Embeddedness In Disrupted And Normal States
Authors: Ketchen David J. , Craighead Christopher W.
Published: November 2020

The daunting effects of COVID‐19 have motivated large firms to rethink supply chain designs and practices. As a potential contribution to such change, we introduce the concept of supply chain entrepreneurial embeddedness (SCEE), which we define as the degree to which a large firm integrates small entrepreneurial business capabilities (e.g., creativity, ingenuity, resourcefulness, rapid decision‐making, and swift execution) within its supply chain. We theorize that SCEE can be realized via at least three mechanisms—acquiring (i.e., purchasing one or more small entrepreneurial firms), allying (i.e., building cooperative alliances with such firms), and assimilating (i.e., mimicking how such firms behave). We suggest that SCEE is valuable under normal conditions, but its value increases under duress. Grounded in the concepts of structural inertia, requisite variety, mutualism, and real options, our core premise is that SCEE enables large firms to better navigate multiple and multidirectional concurrent changes in supply and demand, which in turn enhances firm performance. We contextualize this core premise by theorizing that greater end‐user proximity (wherein SCEE is located close to the final customer) and service centricity (wherein competition is primarily based on the service dimension of product–service bundles) enhance SCEE’s positive effects.
Rates of perfect self‐reported adherence to direct‐acting antiviral therapy and its correlates among people who inject drugs on medications for opioid use disorder: The PREVAIL study
Authors: Pericot‐Valverde Irene , Rennert Lior , Heo Moonseong , Akiyama Matthew J. , Norton Briana L. , Agyemang Linda , Lumsden Brandon , Litwin Alain H.
Published: November 2020

Adequate adherence to direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is critical to attaining sustained virologic response (SVR). In this PREVAIL study's secondary analyses, we explored the association between self‐reported and objective DAAs adherence among a sample of people who inject drugs (PWID) receiving medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) (N = 147). Self‐reported adherence was recoded 3 times during treatment (weeks 4, 8 and 12) using a visual analog scale (VAS), whereas objective adherence was collected continuously during treatment using electronic blister packs. Participants who reported being perfectly adherent had significantly higher blister pack adherence in each period (weeks 4, 8 and 12; ps < .05) and over the 12‐week study (p < .001) compared to those who reported being non‐perfectly adherent. Whites were more likely to report perfect adherence (91.7%) than Blacks (48.7%), Latinos (52.2%) and other (75.0%) race groups. Participants who reported recent use of cocaine (63.9%) or polysubstance use (60.0%) and those who had a positive result for cocaine (62.8%) were more likely to be non‐perfectly adherent, although none of these factors were associated with blister pack adherence. This study showed that the VAS could serve as a reliable option for assessing DAAs adherence among PWID on MOUD. The implementation of VAS may be an ideal option for monitoring adherence among PWID on MOUD, especially in clinical settings with limited resources. PWID on MOUD who are Black or other races than White, as well as those who report recent cocaine or polysubstance use may require additional support to maintain optimal DAA adherence.
First record of larval microhabitats of sandflies in Mexico with the description of the fourth instar larva of Brumptomyia hamata
Authors: Montes de Oca‐Aguilar A. C. , Ibáñez‐Bernal S. , Rebollar‐Téllez E. A.
Published: November 2020

Despite the medical importance of sandflies as vectors (Diptera: Phlebotominae) of Leishmania spp., immature stages of phlebotomine sandflies have never been found in the wild in Mexico. In the present investigation, we sought to identify specific microhabitats associated with the presence of sandfly immature stages. Field work was conducted in 11 localities of the Yucatan Peninsula and we collected soil samples from each site during two periods (November 2007 to April 2008, November 2008). Soil samples were transported to our base camp and were processed using the Berlese's funnels. We processed a total 242 soil samples with an average weight of 362 ± (SD) 317 gr. From these samples, we were able to recover 51 phlebotomine larvae in five different microhabitats and largest number was obtained from mammal burrows (88%) and from tree‐buttresses of Brosimium alicastrum (Berg) (6%). We identified larval microhabitat for Brumptomyia hamata (Fairchild & Hertig) and those specimens provided the material to describe for the first time the fourth instar larva. We also include information of a larval microhabitat of Lutzomyia cruciata (Coquillett). In addition, we recorded a total of 4872 arthropods from 15 taxa in all those soil samples in which sandfly larvae were found, being Collembola (76%) and Acari (10%) the most abundant.
Intracerebral endotheliitis and microbleeds are neuropathological features of COVID‐19
Authors: Kirschenbaum Daniel , Imbach Lukas L. , Rushing Elisabeth J. , Frauenknecht Katrin B. M. , Gascho Dominic , Ineichen Benjamin V. , Keller Emanuela , Kohler Sibylle , Lichtblau Mona , Reimann Regina R. , Schreib Katharina , Ulrich Silvia , Steiger Peter , Aguzzi Adriano , Frontzek Karl
Published: November 2020

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) is a rapidly evolving pandemic caused by the coronavirus Sars‐CoV‐2. Clinically manifest central nervous system symptoms have been described in COVID‐19 patients and could be the consequence of commonly associated vascular pathology, but the detailed neuropathological sequelae remain largely unknown. A total of six cases, all positive for Sars‐CoV‐2, showed evidence of cerebral petechial hemorrhages and microthrombi at autopsy. Two out of six patients showed an elevated risk for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy according to current criteria and were excluded from further analysis. In the remaining four patients, the hemorrhages were most prominent at the grey and white matter junction of the neocortex, but were also found in the brainstem, deep grey matter structures and cerebellum. Two patients showed vascular intramural inflammatory infiltrates, consistent with Sars‐CoV‐2‐associated endotheliitis, which was associated by elevated levels of the Sars‐CoV‐2 receptor ACE2 in the brain vasculature. Distribution and morphology of patchy brain microbleeds was clearly distinct from hypertension‐related hemorrhage, critical illness‐associated microbleeds and cerebral amyloid angiopathy, which was ruled out by immunohistochemistry. Cerebral microhemorrhages in COVID‐19 patients could be a consequence of Sars‐ CoV‐2‐induced endotheliitis and more general vasculopathic changes and may correlate with an increased risk of vascular encephalopathy.
The impact of bounded subadditivity on administrative behaviour among public and private workers
Authors: Belardinelli Paolo , Bellé Nicola , Cantarelli Paola
Published: November 2020

We use a mixed‐methods sequential explanatory design to explore whether and how bounded subadditivity, and the resulting certainty effect, may lead public and private employees to prioritize their activities in ways that are suboptimal for their organizations. In a randomized controlled trial, private sector workers were more likely to join a project to which they were able to provide a small contribution that would turn the probability of success into certainty rather than an alternative project in which their participation would make success twice as likely but not certain. This behaviour, which is consistent with the principle of bounded subadditivity, was not observed among public workers in our sample, who did not show any preference for either project. A qualitative inquiry suggests that the observed difference in susceptibility to bounded subadditivity between public and private employees resonates with public service motivation, self‐determination theory and identity economics.
Kawasaki disease mimickers
Authors: Saez‐de‐Ocariz Marimar , Gámez‐González Luisa Berenise , Rivas‐Larrauri Francisco , Castaño‐Jaramillo Lina María , Toledo‐Salinas Carla , Garrido‐García Luis Martín , Ulloa‐Gutierrez Rolando , Santamaría‐Piedra Maydeli , Orozco‐Covarrubias María de la Luz , Scheffler‐Mendoza Selma , Yamazaki‐Nakashimada Marco Antonio
Published: November 2020

Background

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis that predominantly affects patients younger than 5 years. In the absence of an available, affordable diagnostic test, detailed clinical history and physical examination are still fundamental to make a diagnosis.

Methods

We present five representative cases with KD‐like presentations: systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis, mycoplasma‐induced rash and mucositis, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, BCGosis, and the recently described multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV2) virus.

Results

Rash, fever, and laboratory markers of inflammation can be present in several childhood diseases that may mimic KD.

Conclusion

The term ‘Kawasaki syndrome’ instead of ‘Kawasaki disease’ may be more appropriate. Physicians should consider an alternative diagnosis that may mimic KD, particularly considering MIS‐C during the present pandemic, as an aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic approach is needed.
Building reproductive justice into the safety net
Authors: Nall Michelle , Walker Isabel Cecilia , Likos Kelly Domina Starr
Published: November 2020

The University of Florida Mobile Outreach Clinic (MOC) is a free primary care clinic serving vulnerable communities and citizens without health insurance in Gainesville, Florida, and surrounding areas. This paper describes the approach taken by MOC to offer sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to underserved patients within a reproductive justice framework.
New technique of sex preselection for increasing female ratio in boar sperm model
Authors: Park Yoo‐Jin , Kwon Ki‐Jin , Song Won‐Hee , Pang Won‐Ki , Ryu Do‐Yeal , Saidur Rahman Md , Pang Myung‐Geol
Published: November 2020

In this study, we tried to optimize the porcine semen extender conditions to maximize the differences between live X chromosome‐bearing (X) spermatozoa and to Y chromosome‐bearing (Y) spermatozoa without a decline in the fertility rate at different pH conditions during storage. We observed the viability of X and Y boar spermatozoa in acidic (pH 6.2), original (pH 7.2), and alkaline condition (pH 8.2) for 5 days to investigate the effect of storage conditions on the X to Y spermatozoa ratio. The functional parameters of spermatozoa were also examined to evaluate sperm quality. Sperm motility was preserved at pH 7.2 and pH 6.2 for 3 days, while sperm motility at pH 8.2 decreased significantly after 2 days. Non‐capacitated spermatozoa increased while capacitated spermatozoa decreased during storage. Sperm viability decreased significantly duration‐dependent under all pH conditions, but there was no significant difference during storage at pH 6.2 and 7.2. The X: Y ratio of live spermatozoa in acidic condition was maximized (1.2:1) without affecting the sperm function and fertility‐related protein expression after 2 days compared to original conditions. Moreover, insemination of sows using acidic extender increased the number of female pups on days 1 and 2 of preservation. These results indicate that the production of female offspring may increase when acidic BTS is used for 2 days without affecting the success rate of AI. Above all, this method is simple and economical compared to other methods.
Testing for conditional independence: A groupwise dimension reduction‐based adaptive‐to‐model approach
Authors: Zhu Xuehu , Lu Jun , Zhang Jun , Zhu Lixing
Published: November 2020

In this article, we propose an adaptive‐to‐model test for conditional independence through groupwise dimension reduction developed in sufficient dimension reduction field. The test statistic under the null hypothesis is asymptotically normally distributed. Although it is also based on nonparametric estimation like any local smoothing tests for conditional independence, its behavior is similar to existing local smoothing tests with only the number of covariates under the null hypothesis. Furthermore, it can detect local alternatives distinct from the null at the rate that is also only related to the number of covariates under the null hypothesis. Therefore, the curse of dimensionality is largely alleviated. To achieve the above goal, we also suggest a groupwise least squares estimation for the groupwise central subspace in sufficient dimension reduction. It is of its own importance in estimation theory though it is as a by‐product for the model adaptation of test statistic described herewith. Numerical studies and analyses for two real data sets are then conducted to examine the finite sample performance of the proposed test.
Detecting early or late changes in linear models with heteroscedastic errors
Authors: Horváth Lajos , Miller Curtis , Rice Gregory
Published: November 2020

We construct and study a test to detect possible change points in the regression parameters of a linear model when the model errors and covariates may exhibit heteroscedasticity. Being based on a new trimming scheme for the CUSUM process introduced in Horváth et al. (2020), this test is particularly well suited to detect changes that might occur near the endpoints of the sample. A complete asymptotic theory for the test is developed under the null hypothesis of no change in the regression parameter, and consistency of the test is also established in the presence of a parameter change. Monte Carlo simulations show that our test is comparable to existing methods when the errors are homoscedastic. In contrast, existing methods developed for homoscedastic data are demonstrated to be ill‐sized and poorly performing in the presence of heteroscedasticity, while the proposed test continues to perform well in heteroscedastic environments. These results are further demonstrated in a study of the linear connection between the price of crude oil and the U.S. dollar, and in detecting changes points in asset pricing models surrounding the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Exploring the African Philosophy of Humor through Igbo Proverbs on Laughter
Authors: Ugwuanyi Lawrence Ogbo
Published: November 2020

An understudied aspect of African thought is the question of laughter and humor. Little attempt has, as yet, been made to locate whether laughter and humor add any value in the African worldview and whether this has any theoretical potential in the effort to improve the human condition through an African perspective. By “improving the human condition” is meant (re‐)articulating those core values, such as peace, happiness, and contentment, around which life and human existence acquire meaning and is lived in the best possible manner. This article sets out to address this knowledge gap. It provides views that illustrate a philosophy of humor with an African pedigree. To do this, it maps out a variety of axioms and proverbs in Igbo thought to interpret them and illustrate the insight they provide in locating an African philosophy of humor. The method applied is a mixed method of hermeneutics and critical synthesis.
Muscle length influence on rectus femoris damage and protective effect in knee extensor eccentric exercise
Authors: Ema Ryoichi , Nosaka Kazunori , Kawashima Ryosuke , Kanda Akihiro , Ikeda Koya , Akagi Ryota
Published: November 2020

This study tested the hypothesis that the magnitude of rectus femoris (RF) damage and the repeated bout effect (RBE) would be greater after knee extensor eccentric exercise performed in a supine (long RF lengths) than a sitting (short RF lengths) position, and the muscle length effects would be more prominent at the proximal than distal RF. Young untrained men were placed to one of the two groups (n = 14 per group). S group performed the knee extensor eccentric exercise in the sitting position for the first bout and the supine position for the second bout, and L group performed the exercise in the supine position for two bouts, with 4 weeks between bouts. Dependent variables included evoked and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) torque, electromyography (EMG) during MVC, muscle soreness, and shear modulus, which were measured before and 1‐3 days after each exercise bout. After the first bout, L group in comparison with S group showed greater (P < .05) changes in hip flexor MVC torque (average of 1‐3 days post‐exercise: −11.1 ± 9.4% vs −5.0 ± 7.5%), proximal RF EMG (−22.4 ± 16% vs −9.0 ± 21.9%), and proximal RF shear modulus (33.2 ± 22.8% vs 16.9 ± 13.5%). No significant differences between groups were evident for any of other variables after the first bout including knee extensor MVC torque, and for the changes in all variables after the second bout. These results supported the hypothesis that RF damage would be greater for the spine than sitting position especially at the proximal region, but did not support the hypothesis about the RBE.
Maternal body mass index, change in weight status from childhood to late adulthood and physical activity in older age
Authors: Westberg Anna P. , Wasenius Niko , Salonen Minna K. , von Bonsdorff Mikaela B. , Eriksson Johan G.
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to examine the longitudinal associations of maternal body mass index (BMI), weight status in childhood and late adulthood and device‐measured total physical activity (TPA) in older age. The study involves 552 participants from Helsinki Birth Cohort Study who were born in Helsinki, Finland, in 1934‐1944. TPA was measured with a multisensory body monitor at a mean age of 70 years and expressed in metabolic equivalent of task hours/day (METh/d). Childhood overweight (BMI > 85th percentile) was based on school health records at 6‐7 years of age, and late adulthood overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) was based on clinical measurements at the mean age of 61 years. Childhood overweight was associated with lower TPA, particularly in older women (mean difference −3.2 METh/d, 95% confidence interval (CI) −4.6 ‐ −1.9), and late adulthood overweight was associated with lower TPA both in older women (mean difference −6.2, 95% CI (−7.2 ‐ −5.1) and in older men (mean difference −2.6 METh/d, 95% CI −3.7 ‐ −1.5). TPA in older age was highest in participants who were normal weight both in childhood and adulthood and lowest in participants who were overweight in childhood and adulthood. In participants with childhood overweight, TPA was lower in participants who were overweight both in childhood and adulthood compared to those who were overweight only in childhood. There was a U‐shaped distribution of TPA according to maternal BMI in older women (P = .002), but not in older men. In conclusion, reaching normal weight after childhood predicted higher physical activity levels in older age.
What is a PROM and why do we need it?
Authors: Krogsgaard Michael R. , Brodersen John , Christensen Karl Bang , Siersma Volkert , Kreiner Svend , Jensen Jonas , Hansen Christian Fugl , Comins Jonathan D.
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this article was to introduce the reader to the nature of patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) and pitfalls in their use. PROMs collect subjective information directly from the patient regarding specific or general conditions and add to clinical and functional outcomes, and turn unmeasurable subjective qualities into quantitative measures. PROMs are questionnaires consisting of items: questions or statements with predefined response options. The items in an adequate PROM have been developed by involvement of patients with the condition in focus, and the PROM has been validated for these patients using suitable statistical methods. An adequate well‐targeted PROM is more responsive than an inadequate PROM. Unfortunately, many studies use inadequate PROMs as outcomes. The methods used to generate PROMs should be described as thoroughly as those used to develop any other types of measurement instruments, and the choice of PROM should always be explained and thereby justified. If the PROM used is not adequate, the consequences for the interpretation of the results should be discussed. In many cases, an adequate PROM does not exist. If the best available PROM is chosen, there are methods to validate the adequacy of the chosen PROM, which make an interpretation of the study results possible.
Hepcidin response to interval running exercise is not affected by oral contraceptive phase in endurance‐trained women
Authors: Alfaro‐Magallanes Víctor M. , Barba‐Moreno Laura , Rael Beatriz , Romero‐Parra Nuria , Rojo‐Tirado Miguel A. , Benito Pedro J. , Swinkels Dorine W. , Laarakkers Coby M. , Díaz Ángel E. , Peinado Ana B.
Published: November 2020

The use of oral contraceptives (OCs) by female athletes may lead to improved iron status, possibly through the regulation of hepcidin by sex hormones. The present work investigates the response of hepcidin and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) to an interval exercise in both phases of the OC cycle. Sixteen endurance‐trained OC users (age 25.3 ± 4.7 years; height 162.4 ± 5.7 cm; body mass 56.0 ± 5.7 kg; body fat percentage 24.8 ± 6.0%; peak oxygen consumption [VO2peak]: 47.4 ± 5.5 mL min−1 kg−1) followed an identical interval running protocol during the withdrawal and active pill phases of the OC cycle. This protocol consisted of 8 × 3 minutes bouts at 85% VO2peak speed with 90 seconds recovery intervals. Blood samples were collected pre‐exercise, and at 0 hour, 3 hours, and 24 hours post‐exercise. Pre‐exercise 17β‐estradiol was lower (P = .001) during the active pill than the withdrawal phase (7.91 ± 1.81 vs 29.36 ± 6.45 pg/mL [mean ± SEM]). No differences were seen between the OC phases with respect to hepcidin or IL‐6 concentrations, whether taking all time points together or separately. However, within the withdrawal phase, hepcidin concentrations were higher at 3 hours post‐exercise (3.33 ± 0.95 nmol/L) than at pre‐exercise (1.04 ± 0.20 nmol/L; P = .005) and 0 hour post‐exercise (1.41 ± 0.38 nmol/L; P = .045). Within both OC phases, IL‐6 was higher at 0 hour post‐exercise than at any other time point (P < .05). Similar trends in hepcidin and IL‐6 concentrations were seen at the different time points during both OC phases. OC use led to low 17β‐estradiol concentrations during the active pill phase but did not affect hepcidin. This does not, however, rule out estradiol affecting hepcidin levels.
Alteration in the amount of Glomalin in transition from forest to field/meadow
Authors: Valerie Vranová , Ladislav Holik
Published: November 2020

Glomalin produced by fungal mycelium represents a significant stabilizing element of soil aggregates and a relatively stable carbon reservoir in the soil. The aim of our research was to investigate the changes in the amount of glomalin‐related soil protein (GRSP) associated with the transition from forest to meadow or field conditions at the four transects during the 2016 growing season. The method Near Infrared Spectrometry was applied for measuring the amount of GRSP. The measurements have demonstrated that the amount of GRSP decreased both in the points adjacent to the ecotone in the meadow and the field at the Bukovinka and the Proklest A transects. At the two transects, the changes in the amount of GRSP between the forest, the ecotone and the meadow were statistically insignificant except for the point 4 where more GRSP was found out in the meadow and the ecotone than in the forest.
Pseudotumor presentation of CMV disease: Diagnostic dilemma and association with immunomodulating therapy
Authors: Smibert Olivia C. , Allison Cody C. , Doerflinger Marcel , Pellegrini Marc , Rischin Danny , Thai Alesha , Slavin Monica A. , Kotton Camille N.
Published: November 2020

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the immunocompromised host. Atypical presentations which include pseudotumors or “cancer mimics” have been described. The etiology of these lesions remains unclear. The authors describe two previously unpublished cases that have arisen in the context of newer immunomodulating therapy and review the existing non‐HIV‐associated CMV pseudotumors described in the literature.
Epidemiological surveillance of health care‐associated infections in a pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation unit in South Brazil
Authors: Amancio Luana , Ihle Garcia Giamberardino Heloisa , Ferreira Eurípedes , Matucheski Biana , Garcia Giamberardino Ana Luisa
Published: November 2020

Background

Pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients represent a vulnerable population with regard to health care‐associated infections (HAI) with a differentiated profile of etiologic agents.1,2 There are few reports in the literature regarding HAI in the pediatric population submitted to HSCT.

Methods

This is a retrospective study conducted in a pediatric HSCT unit in Curitiba, Brazil between February 2013 and December 2017 that evaluated 109 pediatric patients. The variables analyzed were: age, gender, baseline disease, type of transplantation, infection topography, etiologic agent, time of HAI occurrence, antimicrobial prophylaxis, period of neutropenia, length of stay, and outcomes

Results

Of 113 HSCT procedures, 91 (83.5%) were allogenic and 18 were autologous (16.5%). The mean age of the patients was 7.9 years, with a median of 8.1 years (4.0 months–17.3 years); 71 (65.1%) were male; 55 (50.5%) presented with an oncologic diagnosis, 32 (29.4%) with a hematological diagnosis, 17 (15.6%) with immunodeficiencies, and 5 (4.6%) with other causes. During hospitalization after HSCT, 86 episodes of HAI were detected in 66 patients, with an infection density of 16.5 infections/1000 patient days, 86% of which occurred after allogeneic transplants, appearing, on average, 15.3 days after transplantation. The main topographies were bloodstream infection (BSI), with 24 (27.9%) cases, and central line‐associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), with 11 (12.8%). Gram‐positive bacteria predominated in cultures and HAI was more frequent in patients diagnosed with immunodeficiencies and other non‐oncologic and non‐hematologic conditions. Among the Gram‐positive bacteria, Staphylococcus epidermidis was the main agent identified (77.7%), possibly because of colonization. However, Gram‐negative bacteria, with a resistance profile, comprised 40% of the cases of bacterial infections, most of them represented by Klebsiella pneumoniae (66.6%). Of the 66 patients who presented HAI, 59 patients (89.4%) were discharged, and 7 (10.6%) died.

Conclusion

The main topographies were CLABSI and BSI. Patients with immunodeficiencies presented a higher risk for HAI Staphylococcus epidermidis was the main agent identified. However, Klebsiella pneumoniae posed a higher risk for Pediatric Intensive Care Unit admission and death.
Primary tuberculosis of the graft masquerading pyogenic liver abscess in a pediatric liver recipient
Authors: Menon Jagadeesh , Miraje Bhushan , Patel Kinisha , Vij Mukul , Hakeem Abdul , Devarajan Vidyalakshmi , Shanmugam Naresh , Srinivas Reddy Mettu , Rela Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Primary tuberculosis (TB) of the graft presenting as multiple liver abscesses is previously unreported. A 14‐month‐old male child in the early post liver transplant (LT) period presented with high‐grade fever spikes and on evaluation was found to have multiple pyogenic liver abscesses (PLA) in the CT abdomen. His fever was not responding to intravenous antibiotics and liver biopsy was done which showed numerous acid fast bacilli. Genetic analysis confirmed the bacilli as Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Timely diagnosis and prompt introduction of antituberculosis therapy were lifesaving.
DNA methylation dynamics of sperm cell lineage development in tomato
Authors: Lu Yunlong , Song Yunyun , Liu Lingtong , Wang Tai
Published: November 2020

During the sexual reproduction of higher plants, DNA methylation and transcription are broadly changed to reshape a microspore into two sperm cells (SCs) and a vegetative cell (VC). However, when and how the DNA methylation of SCs is established remains not fully understood. Here we investigate the DNA methylation (5 mC) dynamics of SC lineage and the VC in tomato using whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing. We find the asymmetric division of the microspore gives its two daughter cells differential methylome. Compared with the generative cell (GC), the VC is hypomethylated at CG sites while hypermethylated at CHG and CHH sites, with the majority of differentially methylation regions targeted to transposable elements (TEs). SCs have a nearly identical DNA methylome to the GC, suggesting that the methylation landscape in SCs may be pre‐established following the asymmetric division or inherited from the GC. The random forest classifier for predicting gene and TE expression shows that methylation within the gene body is a more powerful predictor for gene expression. Among all tested samples, gene and TE expression in the microspore may be more predictable by DNA methylation. Our results depict an intact DNA methylome landscape of SC lineage in higher plants, and reveal that the impact of DNA methylation on transcription is variant in different cell types.
A chromosome‐scale genome assembly of European hazel (Corylus avellana L.) reveals targets for crop improvement
Authors: Lucas Stuart J. , Kahraman Kadriye , Avşar Bihter , Buggs Richard J.A. , Bilge Ipek
Published: November 2020

The European hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is a tree crop of economic importance worldwide, but especially for northern Turkey, where the majority of production takes place. Hazelnut production is currently challenged by environmental stresses, such as a recent outbreak of severe powdery mildew disease; furthermore, allergy to hazelnuts is an increasing health concern in some regions. In order to provide a foundation for using the available hazelnut genetic resources for crop improvement, we produced a fully assembled genome sequence and annotation for a hazelnut species, from C. avellana cv. ‘Tombul’, one of the most important Turkish varieties. A hybrid sequencing strategy, combining short reads, long reads and proximity ligation methods, enabled us to resolve heterozygous regions and produce a high‐quality 370‐Mb assembly that agrees closely with cytogenetic studies and genetic maps of the 11 C. avellana chromosomes, and covers 97.8% of the estimated genome size. The genome includes 27 270 high‐confidence protein‐coding genes, over 20 000 of which were functionally annotated based on homology with known plant proteins. We focused particularly on gene families encoding hazelnut allergens, and the Mildew resistance Locus O (MLO) proteins that are an important susceptibility factor for powdery mildew. The complete assembly enabled us to differentiate between members of these families and to identify homologues that may be important in mildew disease and hazelnut allergy. These findings provide examples of how the genome can be used to guide research and to develop effective strategies for crop improvement in C. avellana.
Whole‐genome assembly and resequencing reveal genomic imprint and key genes of rapid domestication in narrow‐leafed lupin
Authors: Wang Penghao , Zhou Gaofeng , Jian Jianbo , Yang Huaan , Renshaw Daniel , Aubert Matthew K. , Clements Jonathan , He Tianhua , Sweetingham Mark , Li Chengdao
Published: November 2020

Shifting from a livestock‐based protein diet to a plant‐based protein diet has been proposed as an essential requirement to maintain global food sustainability, which requires the increased production of protein‐rich crops for direct human consumption. Meanwhile, the lack of sufficient genetic diversity in crop varieties is an increasing concern for sustainable food supplies. Countering this concern requires a clear understanding of the domestication process and dynamics. Narrow‐leafed lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) has experienced rapid domestication and has become a new legume crop over the past century, with the potential to provide protein‐rich seeds. Here, using long‐read whole‐genome sequencing, we assembled the third‐generation reference genome for the narrow‐leafed lupin cultivar Tanjil, comprising 20 chromosomes with a total genome size of 615.8 Mb and contig N50 = 5.65 Mb. We characterized the original mutation and putative biological pathway resulting in low seed alkaloid level that initiated the recent domestication of narrow‐leafed lupin. We identified a 1133‐bp insertion in the cis‐regulatory region of a putative gene that may be associated with reduced pod shattering (lentus). A comparative analysis of genomic diversity in cultivars and wild types identified an apparent domestication bottleneck, as precisely predicted by the original model of the bottleneck effect on genetic variability in populations. Our results identify the key domestication genetic loci and provide direct genomic evidence for a domestication bottleneck, and open up the possibility of knowledge‐driven de novo domestication of wild plants as an avenue to broaden crop plant diversity to enhance food security and sustainable low‐carbon emission agriculture.
Long‐distance stress and developmental signals associated with abscisic acid signaling in environmental responses
Authors: Yoshida Takuya , Fernie Alisdair R. , Shinozaki Kazuo , Takahashi Fuminori
Published: November 2020

Flowering plants consist of highly differentiated organs, including roots, leaves, shoots and flowers, which have specific roles: root system for water and nutrient uptake, leaves for photosynthesis and gas exchange and reproductive organs for seed production. The communication between organs through the vascular system, by which water, nutrient and signaling molecules are transported, is essential for coordinated growth and development of the whole plant, particularly under adverse conditions. Here, we highlight recent progress in understanding how signaling pathways of plant hormones are associated with long‐distance stress and developmental signals, with particular focus on environmental stress responses. In addition to the root‐to‐shoot peptide signal that induces abscisic acid accumulation in leaves under drought stress conditions, we summarize the diverse stress‐responsive peptide signals reported to date to play a role in environmental responses.
Histologic effects of MicroPulse™ transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in normal equine eyes
Authors: Foote Braidee C. , Smith Jodi D. , Allbaugh Rachel A. , Sebbag Lionel
Published: November 2020

Objective

Determine the immediate post‐operative effects of MicroPulse™ transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP‐TSCPC) in healthy equine eyes.

Animals studied

Ten adult horses.

Methods

MP‐TSCPC was performed on sedated horses in 12 eyes (4 groups) using the following parameters (power, duration, duty cycle): (1) 2000 mW, 180 seconds, 31.3%; (2) 3000 mW, 180 seconds, 31.3%; (3) 3000 mW, 270 seconds, 31.3%; and (4) 3000 mW, 270 seconds, 50%. Three additional eyes were left untreated (control). Eyes were monitored clinically until euthanasia (mean = 3 hours post‐procedure). Histologic sections were assessed with light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Results

MP‐TSCPC was well tolerated by sedated horses. Adverse effects were only noted in Group 4: ocular hypertension (n = 3/3), conjunctival burns (3/3), aqueous flare (2/3), and a corneal erosion (1/3). Histologic scoring of Group 4 was statistically greater than other treated groups (1‐3) and control eyes (P ≤ .021). TEM showed subtle changes to the mitochondria and plasma membrane infoldings of the basilar surface of the nonpigmented epithelium in all treated eyes.

Conclusions

MP‐TSCPC does not cause immediate post‐procedure adverse clinical effects or pronounced morphological changes to the ciliary body, except with the highest laser settings evaluated (power 3000 mW, duration 270 seconds, duty cycle 50%).
Toxoplasma gondiiinfection in Colombia with a review of hosts and their ecogeographic distribution
Authors: Pérez‐Grisales Luis Javier , Cruz‐Moncada Mariana , Peláez‐Sánchez Ronald , Díaz‐Nieto Juan Fernando
Published: November 2020

Toxoplasma gondiiis one of the most prevalent zoonotic protozoan parasites among warm‐blooded animal populations (humans included) around the world, causing multiple clinic manifestations including death in the most severe cases of infection. Due to the versatile life cycle ofT. gondiiand its diversity of potential hosts, there is a common perception that natural areas and wildlife are highly prevalent reservoirs for the parasite; however, information and reports of the parasite on wildlife populations in Colombia are scarce. Using PRC‐based detection analyses of the B1 gene, we evaluated the presence ofT. gondiiin 49 native small mammal species (10% of the mammal species of Colombia) from 4 different undisturbed natural habitats. Additionally, to understand the ecogeographical distribution of the parasite in Colombia, we developed a literature search of infection reports including information on the host species, density of records and occurrence patterns (using landcover and ecoregions) in natural, rural and urban areas. Our literature review showed a total of 8,103 reports ofT. gondiifor Colombia of which 86% were related to humans, and 14% to non‐human mammals and other categories, with just a single report associated to wildlife; additionally, 82% of all reports were associated to urban areas whereas only 18% to rural sites. Based on the negative results for the presence ofT. gondiiin our PCR‐based analyses and our literature search, we suggest thatT. gondiihas a synanthropic distribution in Colombia occurring in ecoregions as variable as the xeric scrubs in the northern lowlands and humid montane Andean forests, also we show a lack of information on the parasite relationship with wildlife, a concerning fact given that zoonoses are the leading mechanism for the emergence of infectious diseases.