bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genome‐wide analysis of the Chinese sturgeon sox gene family: identification, characterisation and expression profiles of different tissues
Authors: Yang Jing , Hu Yacheng , Han Jilu , Xiao Kan , Liu Xueqing , Tan Chun , Zeng Qingkai , Du Hejun 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe sox family is assumed to be responsible for a number of developmental systems. Genome sequencing technology makes it possible to scan sox genes and conduct characteristic analyses of different species. In fish, full characterisation of sox genes at the genome‐wide level has been reported for pufferfish Takifugu rubripes, medaka Oryzias latipes, tilapia Oreochromis niloticus and channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus. However, no systematic investigation of the sox family in sturgeons (Acipenseridae) has been reported to date. This study conducted genome‐wide identification of the sox genes in the Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis and profiled their tissue distribution between male and female individuals. In total, 19 sox genes were identified, including soxb1, b2, c, d, e, f and h, in the Chinese sturgeon. Genomic structure analysis indicated relatively conserved exon–intron structures in each sox group and phylogenetic analysis supported the previous classification of the sox family. Most of the sox genes showed a tissue‐specific expression pattern, indicating the possible involvement of Chinese sturgeon sox genes at different developmental processes such as cardiac and gonadal development. This study provides a comprehensive resource of Chinese sturgeon sox genes and enables a better understanding of the evolution and function of the sox family.
Glucocorticoid and β‐adrenergic regulation of hippocampal dendritic spines
Authors: Lesuis Sylvie L. , Timmermans Wendy , Lucassen Paul J. , Hoogenraad Casper C. , Krugers Harm J. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractGlucocorticoid hormones are particularly potent with respect to enhancing memory formation. Notably, this occurs in close synergy with arousal (i.e., when norepinephrine levels are enhanced). In the present study, we examined whether glucocorticoid and norepinephrine hormones regulate the number of spines in hippocampal primary neurons. We report that brief administration of corticosterone or the β‐adrenergic receptor agonist isoproterenol alone increases spine number. This effect becomes particularly prominent when corticosterone and isoproterenol are administered together. In parallel, corticosterone and isoproterenol alone increased the amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, an effect that is not amplified when both hormones are administered together. The effects of co‐application of corticosterone and isoproterenol on spines could be prevented by blocking the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist RU486. Taken together, both corticosterone and β‐adrenergic receptor activation increase spine number, and they exert additive effects on spine number for which activation of glucocorticoid receptors is permissive.
Integration of skeletal traits in some passerines: impact (or the lack thereof) of body mass, phylogeny, diet and habitat
Authors: Shatkovska Oksana V. , Ghazali Maria 
Published: November 2019

AbstractMorphological integration of the bird skeleton is of great interest because it relates to issues of specialization, plasticity, and rate of evolutionary transformations of a skeleton as a whole and its anatomical regions. Despite growing interest, the integration and modularity of the skeleton of birds, in general, remain little studied. We evaluated the change of relative sizes and integration of shapes of skull, sternum and pelvis, and factors that influence the covariation of these regions among passerines. Results of both standard and phylogenetic reduced major axis showed that the relative lengths of the most studied skeletal traits were largely determined by body mass. The length of the skull scaled isometrically on body mass, and the lengths of both synsacrum and ilium showed positive allometry. Within the skull, beak length was positively allometric, whereas cranium length was negatively allometric with body mass. We found the presence of covariation between shapes of skull, sternum and pelvis using standard partial least squares (PLS) analysis and absence of covariation between most of these blocks using evolutionary PLS analysis on phylogenetic independent contrasts. Evolutionary integration is confirmed only for shapes of skull and pelvis (dorsal view).
The association of malnutrition with falls and harm from falls in hospital inpatients: Findings from a 5‐year observational study
Authors: Lackoff Ariel S. , Hickling Donna , Collins Peter F. , Stevenson Katherine J. , Nowicki Tracy A. , Bell Jack J. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundInpatient falls continue to be a significant clinical issue, and while malnutrition is a known risk factors for falls, few studies have investigated its association with inpatient falls. This study aimed to explore the independent association between malnutrition and fall risk as well as harm from falls in hospital inpatients.MethodsMalnutrition identified in annual malnutrition audits was combined with inpatient fall data captured through the electronic patient incident reporting system in the 12 months following audit days. Audit data were available for 1,849 inpatients across 2011–2015, and covariate associations between age, gender, BMI, malnutrition, falls and harmful falls were analysed. The reporting of this paper is in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) recommendations (see Appendix S1).ResultsThe prevalence of malnutrition was 32.4% (n = 543), and 171 (9.2%) inpatients experienced a fall with 0.7% (n = 13) categorised as harmful. In bivariate analysis, patients who fell were more likely to be older (median 79.0 vs. 70.0 years; p < .0001) or malnourished (40.9% vs. 31.5%; p = .021). Malnutrition (p < .0001) and having a lower BMI (p = .026) were significant predictors of harmful falls. Regression modelling demonstrated that only increasing age increased the likelihood of having an inpatient fall (OR 1.022 95% CI 1.021–1.046; p < .0001). Malnourished inpatients were almost 8 times more likely to have a harmful fall than those not malnourished (OR 7.94 95% CI 1.457–43.338; p = .017), independent of age and BMI.ConclusionsMalnourished patients are more likely to experience a harmful fall. Assessment of malnutrition should be incorporated into fall risk assessments as a way of highlighting those patients at greater risk and to link to nutritional care pathways.
Challenges for nurses when communicating with people who have life‐limiting illness and their families: A focus group study
Authors: Kerr Debra , Milnes Sharyn , Ammentorp Jette , McKie Claire , Dunning Trisha , Ostaszkiewicz Joan , Wolderslund Maiken , Martin Peter 
Published: November 2019

AbstractAims and objectivesThe proposed study aimed to answer the following question: What communication issues do nurses find challenging when caring for people with life‐limiting illness?BackgroundEvidence suggests that attitudes, skills and knowledge about how nurses communicate effectively with patients and their families could be improved. However, the literature predominantly focuses on nurses working in oncology and the medical profession.DesignA qualitative descriptive design was used.MethodsFocus groups were conducted with 39 nurses from three wards within a regional healthcare organisation in Victoria, Australia. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The COREQ checklist was used to document reporting of the study.ResultsIn their view, nurses have the potential to develop a strong bond with patients and their families. Three key themes were identified: (a) feeling unskilled to have difficult conversations with patients who have life‐limiting illness; (b) interacting with family members adds complexity to care of patients who have life‐limiting illness; and (c) organisational factors impede nurses' capacity to have meaningful conversations with patients and their families.ConclusionsCaring for individuals with life‐limiting illness is complex and often occurs in an emotionally charged environment. However, nurses report being hampered by time restraints and lack of information about the patient's condition and goals of care. Limitations in conversation structure and a comprehensive range of core communication skills affect their ability to confidently engage in conversations, particularly when they are responding to prognostic questions.Relevance to clinical practiceWhilst nurses are responsible for performing technical skills, they can maximise care by developing a trusting relationship with patients and their relatives. Increased acuity limits the time nurses have to talk with patients. In addition, they lack confidence to deal with difficult questions. Specific training may increase nurses' confidence and efficiency when communicating with patients and their families.
Quitting trajectories of Chinese women smokers following telephone smoking cessation counselling: A longitudinal study
Authors: Ho Ka Yan , Li Ho Cheung William , Lam Katherine Ka Wai , Wang Man Ping , Xia Wei , Ho Long Kwan Laurie , Ou Ying Jane , Chan Sophia Siu Chee , Lam Tai Hing 
Published: November 2019

AbstractAims and ObjectivesThis study mapped the quitting patterns (trajectories) of Hong Kong Chinese women smokers who had received counselling via a quitline service and examined factors correlated with different trajectories.BackgroundQuitting smoking is always a gradual and progressive process. However, most existing studies on smoking cessation have adopted a cross‐sectional approach to conduct evaluation. Little is known about the quitting trajectories of smokers, particularly those who are women after receiving smoking cessation counselling.MethodsWe used a retrospective longitudinal design and analysed 474 women smokers who had called the quitline. Quitting trajectories were mapped using latent growth modelling. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with class membership. A STROBE checklist was completed.ResultsWe identified three trajectory groups: ‘quitters’ who quit smoking at 6 months and abstained from cigarettes up to 6 years; ‘reducers’ who cut down cigarette consumption ≥50% at 3 years and maintained reduced levels up to 6 years; and ‘increasers’ who increased smoking ≥20% at 3 years and continued smoking up to 6 years. Participants who perceived more difficulties in quitting were more likely to be increasers. Those with higher daily cigarette consumption at baseline were more likely to be reducers.ConclusionsWe clarified three trajectory groups of women smokers. The results indicate that existing cessation services need to be improved, especially for women smokers who do not quit after receiving telephone counselling.Relevance to clinical practiceExisting cessation services need to be improved, especially for women smokers who do not quit after receiving telephone counselling. For those who reduce smoking but fail to quit, quit plans should be developed that provide step‐by‐step guidance in achieving abstinence through smoking reduction. Instant messages may complement telephone counselling to deliver cessation support for those who increase their cigarette consumption.
Are there changes to regional tissue oxygenation and circulation following umbilical artery catheter placement? A prospective cohort study in newborn infants
Authors: Jani Pranav , Hinder Murray , Badawi Nadia , Galea Claire , Goodwin Andrew , Tracy Mark 
Published: November 2019

AimThe use of umbilical arterial catheters (UACs) is a standard of care in monitoring critically unwell infants. Serious vascular complications are rare but when they do occur, they can be associated with significant morbidity, risking limb loss or even death. Near infra‐red spectroscopy has the potential to monitor limb perfusion. Our study investigates changes in tissue oxygenation and perfusion in the abdominal and leg circulation following UAC insertion.MethodsA prospective observational study performing ultrasound pulsed Doppler measurements in the coeliac, superior mesenteric artery, renal arteries and the femoral arteries as well as near infrared spectroscopy measurements of both thighs at three time points (immediately before = Time 1, 1 h after = Time 2 and 24 h after UAC insertion = Time 3).ResultsWe monitored 30 infants, the mean gestational age was 30 weeks (24–41) and the mean birthweight was 1720 g (600–4070 g). We observed statistically significant changes (P < 0.05) in pulse Doppler measurements in coeliac (mean peak systolic velocity (PSV): Time 1 = 70.51, Time 2 = 61.75; resistive index (RI): Time 1 = 0.75, Time 2 = 0.67), superior mesenteric (PSV: Time 1 = 41.72, Time 2 = 36.10; RI: Time 1 = 0.92, Time 2 = 0.87), renal (same side end‐diastolic velocity: Time 1 = 1.98, Time 2 = 3.80; RI: Time 1 = 0.93, Time 2 = 0.87; opposite side end‐diastolic velocity: Time 1 = 2.62, Time 2 = 3.84; RI: Time 1 = 0.92, Time 2 = 0.85) and femoral arteries (same side PSV: Time 1 = 72.75, Time 2 = 62.18; opposite side PSV: Time 1 = 81.89, Time 2 = 62.74). Tissue oxygenation in lower limbs remained unaffected (same side (mean): Time 1 = 68.59, Time 2 = 68.99, Time 3 = 66.40, opposite side: Time 1 = 67.72, Time 2 = 66.92, Time 3 = 65.40). All infants on clinical examination had normal lower limb perfusion, lower limb arterial pulses and normal perfusion to the gluteal region before and after insertion of UAC.ConclusionsWhile sub‐clinical changes in perfusion occur in abdominal and leg circulation, these changes are not consistent across vessels and regional tissue oxygenation remains unaffected.
Meio‐epifaunal wood colonization in the vicinity of methane seeps
Authors: Gracia C. Adriana , Levin Lisa A. , Zea Sven 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIn deep‐sea environments, plant remains of several origins are found, including branches, twigs, leaves, and wood pieces, among others. As most of the deep‐sea bottoms are oligotrophic and nutrient‐limited, plant remains provide an oasis of localized organic enrichment and a substrate for colonization. Sunken wood was suggested to play an important evolutionary role in the diversification of chemosynthetic ecosystems, possibly representing stepping stones for the colonization between vent and seep ecosystems. In order to understand colonization processes of the Pacific Costa Rican meio‐epifaunal assemblages associated with sunken wood, a field experiment was conducted on Mound 12 (8°55.778′N, 84°18.730′W) at ~1,000 m water depth. Woodblocks were placed in four different habitats (Mussel beds, tube worms, near mussel beds, rubble bottoms), and different local environmental conditions (seepage‐active and seepage‐inactive sites). Seven experimental Douglas fir woodblocks (each 1,047 cm2 in surface area) were deployed from the R/V Atlantis using the manned submersible Alvin in February 2009 and recovered after 10.5 months in January 2010. Sample processing and analyses led to a data set of abundance (total 9,951 individuals) and spatial distribution of nine meio‐epifaunal higher taxa/groups. Meio‐epifaunal densities on individual woodblocks ranged from 3 to 26 ind.10 cm2. Copepods accounted for the highest abundances (75.1%), followed by nauplii larvae (11.7%) and nematodes (9.8%). The maximum number of individuals (26.3 ind.10 cm−2) was found in blocks placed in seepage‐inactive areas (near active mussel beds) in contrast to 2.9 ind.10 cm−2 in active areas (within a mussel bed). A hierarchical cluster analysis grouped blocks according to seepage activity and not to habitat, but tests of similarity showed no significant differences in higher taxon composition and abundances, probably owing either to substrate homogeneity or low sample size. Copepods were the most abundant representatives, suggesting that this group is one of the most successful in colonizing in the early stage of succession, in this case while hardwood substrates are not yet decomposed or bored by bivalves.
Nonlinear price impact and portfolio choice
Authors: Guasoni Paolo , Weber Marko Hans 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIn a market with price impact proportional to a power of the order flow, we find optimal trading policies and their implied performance for long‐term investors who have constant relative risk aversion and trade a safe asset and a risky asset following geometric Brownian motion. These quantities admit asymptotic explicit formulas up to a structural constant that depends only on the curvature of the price impact function. Trading rates are finite as with linear impact, but are lower near the target portfolio, and higher away from the target. The model nests the square‐root impact law and, as extreme cases, linear impact and proportional transaction costs.
Unlocking the genetic basis of monarch butterflies' use of medicinal plants
Authors: Smilanich Angela M. , Nuss Andrew B. 
Published: November 2019

If there was any doubt of the primary role that plant secondary metabolites play in host–parasite co‐evolution, the “From the Cover” paper by Tan et al. (2019) featured in this issue of Molecular Ecology will lay these doubts to rest. The group's previous work on monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) infected with the protozoan pathogen Ophryocystis elektroscirrha (OE) demonstrated higher survival and lower spore load on high cardenolide‐producing milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) (Figure 1a) compared with low cardenolide‐producing milkweed (A. incarnata) (de Roode, Pedersen, Hunter, & Altizer, 2008) (Figure 1b). The mechanism of this protective effect is not directly clear, but a leading hypothesis is that the cardenolides confer protection through toxicity to the parasite. However, the role of the caterpillar immune system in managing this parasite is largely unknown. Novel insights into the influence of toxic plant metabolites on caterpillar immunity are explored in Tan et al. (2019). Using transcriptomics to probe this model system, the authors found that herbivore immune genes were down‐regulated and detoxification genes were up‐regulated when larvae were reared on the milkweed species with high cardenolide concentrations (A. curassavica). Surprisingly, immune genes were not significantly up‐ or down‐regulated in response to protozoan infection alone. This tantalizing result suggests that sequestered plant metabolites, not immunity, is reining in protozoan infections in these larvae, and promoting survival. As the authors point out, the strategy to invest in sequestration may come at a cost, which is to the detriment of the immune response (Smilanich, Dyer, Chambers, & Bowers, 2009). However, the cost becomes worth the investment when chemical sequestration takes on an antipathogen role. The novelty of the Tan et al. (2019) paper is that they show the investment in sequestration leading to a possible divestment in immunity.
In vivo positron emission tomography imaging of decreased parasympathetic innervation in the gut of vagotomized patients
Authors: Fedorova Tatyana Dmitrievna , Knudsen Karoline , Hartmann Bolette , Holst Jens J. , Viborg Mortensen Frank , Krogh Klaus , Borghammer Per 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundParasympathetic neuropathy is a key feature in many common disorders, including diabetes, neurological disorders, and cancers, but few objective methods exist for assessing damage to the parasympathetic nervous system, particularly in the gastrointestinal system. This study aimed to validate the use of 11C‐donepezil positron emission tomography (PET) to assess parasympathetic integrity in a group of vagotomized patients.MethodsSixteen healthy controls and 12 patients, vagotomized due to esophagectomy, underwent 11C‐donepezil PET, measurement of colonic transit time, quantification of plasma pancreatic polypeptide (PP), and assessment of subjective long‐term symptoms.Key ResultsVagotomized patients had significantly decreased PET signal in the small intestine and colon compared with healthy controls (5.7 [4.4‐7.9] vs 7.4 [4.5‐11.3], P = .01 and 1.4 [1.1‐2.1] vs 1.6 [1.4‐2.4], P < .01, respectively). Vagotomized patients also displayed a significantly increased colonic transit time (2.9 ± 0.9 h vs 1.9 ± 0.8 h), P < .01 and increased volumes of the small intestine and colon (715 ccm [544‐1177] vs 443 ccm [307‐613], P < .01 and 971 ccm [713‐1389] vs 711 ccm [486‐1394], P = .01, respectively). Patients and controls did not differ in PP ratio levels after sham feeding, but PP ratio at 10 minutes. after sham feeding and PET signal intensity in the small intestine was positively correlated (P = .03).Conclusions and InferencesWe found significantly decreased 11C‐donepezil signal in the intestine of vagotomized patients, supporting that 11C‐donepezil PET is a valid measure of intestinal parasympathetic denervation.
Variability of Pneumocystis jirovecii prophylaxis use among pediatric solid organ transplant providers
Authors: Paulsen Grant , Michaels Marian G. , Danziger‐Isakov Lara , Dipchand Anne I. , Green Michael , McCulloch Mignon 
Published: November 2019

AbstractPneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) prophylaxis after pediatric solid organ transplant (SOT) is routinely recommended, but practice varies. Online survey was sent in 2018 to 707 members of the International Pediatric Transplant Association. A total of 105 responded, representing 47 institutions in 18 countries consisting of transplant physicians (66%), transplant surgeons (19%), nurse practitioners (6%), infectious disease physicians (5%), or pharmacists (4%). PJP prophylaxis was reported by 88%, while 12% did not routinely give prophylaxis. The majority not using PJP prophylaxis performed renal transplants (67%) citing low incidence of PJP (62%). Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was first‐line agent (95%). PJP prophylaxis for 4‐6 months was the most frequent duration following kidney (48%, 27/56), liver (42%, 13/31), and heart (40%, 10/25) transplant. Abdominal multivisceral providers equally gave 10‐12 months (47%) or lifelong (47%); most lung transplant providers gave lifelong prophylaxis (85%). Across all organs, 21% provided lifetime prophylaxis. After completion of prophylaxis, 32% do not restart for any reason; majority of the rest would restart for treatment of acute graft rejection. 83% reported no PJP cases in the prior 12 months; 14% reporting 1‐5 infections. Only 3% reported a case of PJP infection on prophylaxis; none in SOT. PJP prophylaxis is routinely provided to pediatric SOT patients though practice and duration vary by center and organ type. Durations of 4‐6 months were most common for renal, liver, and heart transplant recipients, while 10‐12 months or lifelong prophylaxis were commonly reported for abdominal multivisceral recipients and most lung transplant recipients are given lifelong prophylaxis.