bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of combined PD‐L1 expression and tumour‐infiltrating lymphocyte features with survival and treatment outcomes in patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Bence C. , Hofman V. , Chamorey E. , Long‐Mira E. , Lassalle S. , Albertini A.F. , Liolios I. , Zahaf K. , Picard A. , Montaudié H. , Lacour J.P. , Passeron T. , Andea A.A. , Ilie M. , Hofman P. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractBackgroundRecent advances obtained with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting the programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) protein have significantly improved the outcome of patients with metastatic melanoma. The PD‐L1 expression in tumour cells as detected by immunohistochemistry is a predictive biomarker in some solid tumours, but appears insufficient as prognostic or predictive factor of response to ICIs in metastatic melanomas.ObjectivesWe investigated whether the presence and the features of pretreatment CD8+tumour‐infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs) could be a complementary prognostic or predictive biomarker in patients with metastatic melanoma.MethodsIn this retrospective study, we evaluated the association of PD‐L1 expression ≥5% of tumour cells combined with TIL features (CD8, CD28, Ki67) with the overall survival (OS) among 51 patients treated with ICIs and 54 patients treated with other treatment options (non‐ICIs).Results
PD‐L1 positivity was observed in 33% and 39% of primary melanomas and matched metastases, respectively, with, however, poor concordance between the primary and the matched metastatic site (κ = 0.283). No significant association was noted between PD‐L1 expression and CD8+
TIL profile analysed as single markers and OS or response to immunotherapy. Instead, their combined analysis in primary melanoma samples showed that the PD‐L1−/CD8+status was significantly associated with prolonged OS in the whole population (P = 0.04) and in the subgroup treated with non‐ICIs (P = 0.009). Conversely, the PD‐L1+/CD8+ status was a good prognostic factor in patients treated with ICIs (P = 0.022), whereas was significantly associated with poor prognosis in patients treated with non‐ICIs (P = 0.014). While the expression of CD28 was not related to outcome, the Ki67 expression was significantly associated with poor OS in the subgroup CD8+
TIL+/PD‐L1− (P = 0.02).ConclusionsThe pretreatment combination of PD‐L1 expression with the level of CD8+
TILs could better assess OS and predict therapeutic response of patients with metastatic melanoma treated by either immunotherapy or other treatment regimens.
Evaluation of different bleaching methods applied to yacon
Authors: Macedo Leandro L. , da Silva Araújo Cintia , Vimercati Wallaf C. , Saraiva Sérgio H. , Teixeira Luciano J. Q. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThis work aimed to evaluate the effects of bleaching of yacon using ascorbic acid, citric acid, sodium bisulfite, and l‐cysteine hydrochloride, in 400 ppm concentrations and the heat treatment at 100°C/8 min. The roots were washed, sanitized, and peeled. One batch of the peeled roots was sliced and subjected to heat treatment, with subsequent extraction of juice. Another batch was intended for juice extraction and subjected to chemical bleaching. The bleached samples, along with their respective control samples (not bleached) were evaluated for the total color difference (ΔE) in relation to time zero, over 240 min. Data were subjected to regression analysis and exponential models were adjusted. The values of the horizontal asymptotes were plotted in a bar chart. The treatments with ascorbic and citric acids showed low bleaching capacity in the concentrations studied. l‐Cysteine hydrochloride, sodium bisulfite, and heat treatment were good methods for minimizing yacon juice browning.Practical ApplicationsYacon is a perishable tuberous root and when processed has a high rate of enzymatic browning. This fact makes it indispensable to apply a bleaching method during processing to minimize browning. Therefore, the study of different methods of bleaching provides useful information that enables both practical application by the food industries and the development of new research with yacon.
Plant community assembly along a natural metal gradient in central Africa: Functional and phylogenetic approach
Authors: Delhaye Guillaume , Hardy Olivier J. , Séleck Maxime , Ilunga wa Ilunga Edouard , Mahy Grégory , Meerts Pierre 
Published: October 2019

AbstractQuestionsDo functional and phylogenetic diversity vary along a natural metal gradient? Do resources acquisition and metal tolerance‐related traits show the same patterns of variation? Is the ability to grow on metal‐enriched soil phylogenetically conserved or the result of functional convergence?LocationFungurume V hill (10°37′03″ S, 26°17′22″ E), Upper Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo.MethodsIn 21 communities along a natural copper gradient, we quantified the variation of species richness and turnover as well as the phylogenetic diversity. We assessed the variation of three univariate functional indices — community‐weighted mean, functional richness and functional dispersion — for ten functional traits related to resources acquisition, conservation, dispersal and metal tolerance strategy.Results and ConclusionsAlong a gradient of increasing soil Cu concentration, we found a decrease in species number and a strong species turnover. On metal‐poor soils, phylogenetic clustering and overdispersion of functional traits indicated selection for certain clades (e.g. Fabaceae) with many different trait combinations suggesting niche partitioning. On metal‐enriched soils, contrary to expectations, we found functional convergence towards trait values associated with rapid resource use, lower stature and smaller seeds in several clades. Conversely, metal tolerance strategy showed a clear overdispersion on metal‐rich soils reflecting the presence of several strategies to cope with the excess of metal in the soil. This suggests that some extreme toxicity gradients, such as this one, do not always impose strong functional convergence towards a stress tolerance strategy, as is often assumed.
Testing the role of ecological selection on colour pattern variation in the butterflyParnassius clodius
Authors: Zaman Khuram , Hubert Mryia K. , Schoville Sean D. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractColour pattern has served as an important phenotype in understanding the process of natural selection, particularly in brightly coloured and variable species like butterflies. However, different selective forces operate on aspects of colour pattern, for example by favouring warning colours in eyespots or alternatively favoring investment in thermoregulatory properties of melanin. Additionally, genetic drift influences colour phenotypes, especially in populations undergoing population size change. Here, we investigated the relative roles of genetic drift and ecological selection in generating the phenotypic diversity of the butterflyParnassius clodius. Genome‐wide patterns of single nucleotide polymorphism data show thatP. clodiusforms three population clusters, which experienced a period of population expansion following the last glacial maximum and have since remained relatively stable in size. After correcting for relatedness, morphological variation is best explained by climatic predictor variables, suggesting ecological selection generates trait variability. Solar radiation and precipitation are both negatively correlated with increasing total melanin in both sexes, supporting a thermoregulatory function of melanin. Similarly, wing size traits are significantly larger in warmer habitats for both sexes, supporting a Converse Bergmann Rule pattern. Bright red coloration is negatively correlated with temperature seasonality and solar radiation in males, and weakly associated with insectivorous avian predators in univariate models, providing mixed evidence that selection is linked to warning coloration and predator avoidance. Together, these results suggest that elements of butterfly wing phenotypes respond independently to different sources of selection and that thermoregulation is an important driver of phenotypic differentiation in Parnassian butterflies.
Rhythmic calcium transients in smooth muscle cells of the mouse internal anal sphincter
Authors: Cobine Caroline A. , Hannigan Karen I. , McMahon Megan , Ni Bhraonain Emer P. , Baker Salah A. , Keef Kathleen D. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe internal anal sphincter (IAS) exhibits slow waves (SWs) and tone that are dependent upon L‐type Ca2+ channels (CavL) suggesting that phasic events (ie, SWs) play a fundamental role in tone generation. The present study further examined phasic activity in the IAS by measuring the spatiotemporal properties of Ca2+ transients (CTs) in IAS smooth muscle cells (SMCs).MethodsCa2+ transients were recorded with spinning disk confocal microscopy from the IAS of SM‐GCaMP mice. Muscles were pinned submucosal surface up at two different lengths. Drugs were applied by inclusion in the superfusate.Key ResultsCa2+ transients displayed ongoing rhythmic firings at both lengths and were abolished by nifedipine and the KATP channel activator pinacidil indicating their dependence upon CavL. Like SWs, CTs were greatest in frequency (average 70.6 cpm) and amplitude at the distal extremity and conducted proximally. Removal of the distal IAS reduced but did not abolish CTs. The time constant for clearing cytoplasmic Ca2+ averaged 0.46 seconds and basal Ca2+ levels were significantly elevated.Conclusions & InferencesThe similarities in spatiotemporal and pharmacological properties of CTs and SWs suggest that SW gives rise to CTs while muscle stretch is not required. Elevated relative basal Ca2+ in the IAS is likely due to the inability of cells to clear or sequester Ca2+ between rapid frequency voltage‐dependent Ca2+ entry events, that is, conditions that will lead to tone development. The conduction of CTs from distal to proximal IAS will lead to orally directed contractions and likely contribute to the maintenance of fecal continence.
Rumpel‐Leede Phenomenon—An alarming rash with benign etiology in 4 healthy infants
Authors: Ho Valerie Pui Yoong , Chong Jin Ho , Bishnoi Priya , Koh Mark J. A. , Wong Sharon M. Y. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThe Rumpel‐Leede phenomenon (RLP) is a rare clinical presentation and in some cases shown to be related to serious systemic conditions. In children, it has been described in association with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and Henoch‐Schönlein purpura. We present a series of pediatric cases of RLP with mechanical etiologies that had a benign course. We propose minimal investigations for pediatric RLP cases who are systemically well and have a clear suggestive history of a mechanical cause.
Influence of foetal calf serum supplementation during in vitro embryo culture in Iberian red deer
Authors: Iniesta‐Cuerda María , Sánchez‐Ajofrín Irene , García‐Álvarez Olga , Martín‐Maestro Alicia , Peris‐Frau Patricia , Ortiz José Antonio , Fernández‐Santos María Rocío , Garde José Julián , Soler Ana J. 
Published: October 2019

ContentsNowadays, the use of foetal calf serum (FCS) during in vitro embryo culture is very controversial. Whilst some authors have encouraged its use, others reject it because of its harmful effects. Although in vitro embryo production in red deer is a promising assisted reproductive technique, it is still in its infancy and a great effort is needed to update the protocols used. The aim of this study was to assess whether FCS supplementation in red deer embryo culture medium is necessary to produce blastocyst and, if so, when is the best time to add it in terms of blastocyst production and quality. In vitro blastocysts were cultured with FCS added at 24, 48 or 96 hours post‐insemination (hpi). In addition, a treatment without FCS was used as control. Six hundred and ninety‐four cumulus–oocyte complexes were collected for in vitro fertilization. Cleavage rate was examined at 48 hpi, and blastocyst yield was recorded on days 6, 7 and 8. FCS had no influence on cleavage and blastocyst rate for any of the treatments studied. However, the number of cells was higher (p = .025) in those blastocysts cultured with FCS from 48 hpi compared with FCS‐free culture media (93.88 ± 7.76 vs. 54.11 ± 8.36). In conclusion, the addition of FCS to the embryo culture medium at 48 hpi improves the quality of red deer blastocyst, although it does not affect the percentage of embryos obtained.
Induction of CIRBP expression by cold shock on bovine cumulus–oocyte complexes
Authors: Gardela Jaume , Ruiz‐Conca Mateo , Álvarez‐Rodríguez Manuel , Mogas Teresa , López‐Béjar Manel 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThe aim of this study was to induce the cold‐inducible RNA‐binding protein (CIRBP) expression on cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) through exposure to a sub‐lethal cold shock and determine the effects of hypothermic temperatures during the in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes. Nuclear maturation, cortical granule redistribution and identification of cold‐inducible RNA‐binding protein (CIRBP) were assessed after 24 hr of in vitro maturation of control (38.5°C) and cold‐stressed oocytes (33.5°C). The presence of CIRBP was assessed by Western blot in COCs or denuded oocytes and their respective cumulus cells. Based on the odds ratio, cold‐stressed oocytes presented higher abnormal cytoplasmic distribution of cortical granules and nuclear maturation than the control group. Although CIRBP was detected in both control and cold‐stressed groups, cold‐stressed COCs had 2.17 times more expression of CIRBP than control COCs. However, when denuded oocytes and cumulus cells were assessed separately, CIRBP only was detected in cumulus cells in both groups. In conclusion, cold shock induced CIRBP expression, but it negatively affected nuclear maturation and cortical granule distribution of bovine oocytes. Moreover, the expression of CIRBP was only identified in cumulus cells but not in oocytes.
Current challenges in sheep artificial insemination: A particular insight
Authors: Alvarez Mercedes , Anel‐Lopez Luis , Boixo Juan Carlos , Chamorro Cesar , Neila‐Montero Marta , Montes‐Garrido Rafael , de Paz Paulino , Anel Luis 
Published: October 2019

AbstractOvine artificial insemination (OAI) is not commonly performed because of specific problems related to semen application techniques, leading to highly variable results. The ideal methodology (frozen‐thawed semen/vaginal route) is unfeasible under field conditions due to the cervix morphology of the ewe, which prevents the process of intrauterine insemination necessary to obtain acceptable results. Currently, OAI commercial programmes use superficial cervical insemination, CAI (vaginal), with chilled semen (15°C) and intrauterine insemination, LAI (laparoscopic), with frozen‐thawed semen. The ability to improve upon these contrasting techniques may be derived from examining certain poorly studied factors such as insemination time, productive state of females and alternatives of seminal preservation, some of which we reviewed in this work. This interim solution will remain in use until AI by the vaginal route with frozen‐thawed semen is developed, but it poses new challenges in optimizing the freezing of the sperm and adapting the cervical (CAI) and/or transcervical intrauterine AI (TCAI). In this review, we address the current problems and evaluate their methodological (mechanical) and chemical (dilation) alternatives. Currently, TCAI is a methodologically complex technique with poor fertility results, so further studies are needed to improve the logistics of this procedure and the results of its application.
A non‐invasive method for semen collection and evaluation in small and median size lizards
Authors: Martínez‐Torres Martín , Sánchez‐Rivera Uriel Ángel , Cruz‐Cano Norma Berenice , Castro‐Camacho Yabín Josué , Luis Juana , Medrano Alfredo 
Published: October 2019

ContentsThe aim of this study was to develop a non‐invasive procedure to stimulate ejaculation in median and small lizards for semen collection. After semen collection, we applied a battery of tests to assess the motility (wave and progressive), viability (eosin–nigrosin stain), morphology (normal/abnormal), sperm concentration and ejaculate number, seminal volume and colour. We obtained this fluid from all males of the four species of sceloporine lizards (n = 30) and one species of Mexican horned lizards (n = 7). We found that semen from all males had a liquid‐like consistency and a milky‐white appearance. Ejaculate volume and sperm concentration varied among the males and the species studied. We also observed that although the mobility, viability and normal sperm morphology showed a wide variability, their average value in each species was high. We conclude that “genital papilla pressure” was an efficient and non‐invasive semen obtaining method for small‐ and medium‐sized lizards that does not imply damage to donors and could be used in other lizard species.
Sperm competition and the evolution of sperm form and function in mammals
Authors: Roldan Eduardo R. S. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractSperm competition is a powerful selective force that has influenced many reproductive traits in males and females although additional evolutionary explanations may help to understand the diversity of mammalian reproduction. Sperm morphology varies considerably in mammals with extreme examples in several rodent lineages in which a wide range of sizes and complex head morphologies have been identified. Mammalian spermatozoa also differ in function, with swimming velocity and trajectory showing much divergence. Underlying processes mediating function have received little attention so far, but differences in timing and proportion of sperm undergoing capacitation or acrosomal exocytosis may be related to variation in signalling processes. Furthermore, energy required for sperm functions (such as motion, signalling and overall maintenance of cell integrity) can be produced and consumed, following different patterns among species and this could be the result of several selective forces. A more thorough understanding of the diversity in structure and function of sperm cells, and underlying selective forces, may help us develop better methods to assess them taking into account particulars and generalities of sperm form and performance. Such tests could then become more reliable in estimations of the impact of cryopreservation or effect of changes in the environment and their relevance for fertility.
Pathological personality facets and emotion (dys)regulation in gambling disorder
Authors: Rogier Guyonne , Beomonte Zobel Sara , Velotti Patrizia 
Published: October 2019

A number of researches showed high prevalence of personality disorders among addicted gamblers. However, there are still few studies investigating the role of pathological personality facets in Gambling Disorder (GD). Moreover, the nature of the relationship between GD and pathological personality is not clear. We administered to a group of addicted gamblers (N = 79) and a group of healthy participants (N = 101) a battery of self‐report questionnaires encompassing the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), The Personality Inventory for DSM‐V (PID‐5), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ). Analyses of variance showed that addicted gamblers, compared to healthy participants, scored higher on most of the subscales of the DERS, on the Suppression Dimension of the ERQ and on the five main domains of the PID‐5 whereas they obtained lower scores on the Reappraisal subscale of the ERQ. Moreover, multiple regression analyses indicated that some specific facets of pathological personality, emotion dysregulation and lack of cognitive reappraisal, significantly predict GD's severity. Finally, emotion dysregulation levels and lack of cognitive reappraisal partially mediated the relationship between these and GD's severity. Our results confirmed the central roles played by both pathological personality and deficit in emotion regulation capacities in GD. Specifically, Impulsivity, Lack of Perseverance and Suspiciousness may be important predictors of GD severity. Moreover, emotion dysregulation and lack of adaptive emotion regulation strategies partially explained such relationship. As such, training for emotion regulation abilities appears strategically useful in the treatment of addicted gamblers with pathological personality traits.
Retrospective evaluation of Micrurus fulvius (Eastern coral snake) envenomation and the use of mechanical ventilation in dogs and a cat (2011–2016): 8 cases
Authors: Campos Samantha , Allen‐Durrance Ashley E. , Schaer Michael , Lynch Alex 
Published: October 2019

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the use of mechanical ventilation (MV) in the management of Eastern coral snake envenomation in 7 dogs and a cat.DesignRetrospective study (2011–2016).SettingUniversity teaching hospital.AnimalsSeven dogs and 1 cat receiving MV for ventilatory failure secondary to Eastern coral snake envenomation.InterventionsNone.Measurement and Main ResultsThe medical records of 8 animals that received MV following Eastern coral snake envenomation were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, time to veterinary assessment, physical and laboratory characteristics at arrival, clinical course during hospitalization, management including antivenom administration, MV settings, duration of ventilation, length of hospitalization, cost of care, and survival to discharge. The mean ± SD age was 4 ± 3.2 years. Median (range) time to onset of clinical signs was 30 (5–240) minutes. Coral snake antivenom was administered to 7 of the 8 animals following arrival at a median (range) of 30 (5–90) minutes. All animals had progressive hypoventilation and received MV, specifically volume controlled, synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation with pressure support. The median (range) duration of MV was 58 (25–84) hours and the median (range) duration of hospitalization was 8.2 (6–11) days. Ventilator associated complications occurred in all animals, but overall outcome was excellent with 7 of 8 surviving to discharge. No dog, but the 1 cat, had an adverse reaction to antivenom.ConclusionsVentilatory failure secondary to Eastern coral snake envenomation necessitating MV carries an excellent prognosis and is better than reported for other causes of lower motor neuron disease. Successful response to ventilation was achieved even with associated complications being common in this cohort of animals.
Influence of a new method of applying adsorbents on membrane fouling in MBR systems
Authors: Mohamadi Siavash , Hazrati Hossein , Shayegan Jalal 
Published: October 2019

AbstractIn this study, adsorbent packed beds of granular zeolite and activated carbon (AC) were used to mitigate membrane fouling in the membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems. Specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR), particle size distribution (PSD), transmembrane pressure (TMP), soluble microbial products (SMP), extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and excitation‐emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy were used to identify sludge and membrane cake layer characteristics. The changes in TMP demonstrated that using AC and ZE has resulted in a 38% and a 35% reduction in membrane fouling, respectively. Measuring EPS, SMP, proteins (PN) and polysaccharides (PS) in EPS and using FTIR and EEM revealed that AC and ZE have resulted in a decrease in SMP, EPS, PN and PS. The results showed that this method could reduce membrane fouling as much as the previous methods.