bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predation risk affects egg mortality and carry over effects in the larval stages in damselflies
Authors: Sniegula Szymon , Nsanzimana Jean d'Amour , Johansson Frank 
Published: February 2019

Abstract

The non‐consumptive predator effect may incur physiological costs that affect growth and development and ultimately survival. While studies have shown that the effect can affect development and growth in organisms with complex life cycles, we have limited knowledge on the effect in the egg and early larval stage.

Here, we used a laboratory experiment to examine how the presence of chemical cues, a non‐consumptive predator effect, from an aquatic predator, perch, affected hatching success of larvae in three species of damselfly, Ischnura elegans, Coenagrion pulchellum, and Enallagma cyathigerum. In addition, we examined how exposure to predation risk in the early larval stages affected growth in the late larval stages of I. elegans.

We found that the presence of chemical predator cues (1) increased egg mortality in all three species, (2) caused earlier hatching of eggs in one species, no change in a second species and a delay in egg hatching in a third species. We also found that predator cues have the potential to cause a carryover effect from early larval stages to late larval stages in terms of larval growth rate.

The addition of non‐consumptive predator cues in the form of fish water caused higher algal growth than in the control experimental containers, and we suggest that this algal growth has the potential to confound predator stress cues.

Our results show that the non‐consumptive predator effects affect survival and growth, and hence they have the potential to affect predator–prey dynamics in natural systems. Future studies on such effects in aquatic systems should consider confounding stressors, such as algae, fungi, oxygen, and nutrients levels, that might come with the addition of predation cues in water and thus add additional stress.
Optimal wavelength for the clot waveform analysis: Determination of the best resolution with minimal interference of the reagents
Authors: Evrard Jonathan , Siriez Romain , Morimont Laure , Thémans Pauline , Laloy Julie , Bouvy Céline , Gheldof Damien , Mullier François , Dogné Jean‐Michel , Douxfils Jonathan 
Published: February 2019

AbstractIntroductionClot waveform analysis (CWA), a new methodology to assess coagulation process, can be usefully applied in various clinical settings. However, its clinical use is limited mainly because of the absence of standardization. No consensus exists regarding the wavelengths at which CWA has to be performed what is crucial for the sensitivity of the CWA.ObjectivesThe primary aim of this study is to determine which wavelength is the most sensitive and specific for CWA. Interindividual baseline absorbance will also be assessed as the impact of reagents from the intrinsic, extrinsic, and common coagulation pathway will be determined.MethodsPlasma samples were screened at wavelengths from 280 to 700 nm to provide absorbance spectra in clotted and nonclotted plasma. The interindividual variability of baseline absorbance was obtained by screening plasma from 50 healthy individuals at 340, 635, and 671 nm. The inner‐filter effect of reagents was assessed in plasma or serum when appropriate at the same wavelengths. The reagents were those commonly used for activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, thrombin time, and dilute Russell's viper venom time.ResultsClotted plasma has higher absorbance value than nonclotted plasma (P < 0.01). The absorbance of all type of samples is higher at 340 nm than at >600 nm (P < 0.01). The interindividual variability at the different wavelengths was around 25%. However, except with the STA®‐CKPrest® and STA®‐NeoPTimal®, the reagents do not have a significant effect on the baseline absorbance.ConclusionsWavelengths above 650 nm are recommended to perform CWA. Most of the commercialized reagents can be used for CWA.
Flow cytometric predictive scoring systems for common fusions ETV6/RUNX1, BCR/ABL1, TCF3/PBX1 and rearrangements of the KMT2A gene, proposed for the initial cytogenetic approach in cases of B‐acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Tsagarakis Nikolaos J. , Papadhimitriou Stefanos I. , Pavlidis Dimitris , Marinakis Theodoros , Kostopoulos Ioannis V. , Stiakaki Eftichia , Polychronopoulou Sofia , Paterakis George 
Published: February 2019

AbstractIntroductionIn B‐acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL), the identification of cytogenetic prognostic factors is important for stratifying patients into risk groups and tailoring treatment accordingly. The purpose of this study was to propose flow cytometric (FCM) scoring systems (SSs) for predicting t(12;21)(p13;q22), t(9;22)(q34;q11), t(11q23), and t(1;19)(q23;p13.3) translocations.MethodsWe analyzed retrospectively the FCM immunophenotype of 377 patients with B‐ALL with regard to the major cytogenetic findings revealed by interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (i‐FISH). Comparing descriptive data on the expression of each antigen and performing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, we identified the most reliable predictive markers for each translocation and sought to establish a specific SS for each translocation, based on specific antibody panels.ResultsCD27, CD9, CD66c, CD10, CD25, and CD34 were employed for the prediction of t(12;21), CD25, CD38, CD34, and CD66c for t(9;22), NG2, CD10, CD15, CD34, and CD20 for t(11q23), and CD34, cμ, CD123, and CD66c for t(1;19). The sensitivity and specificity, respectively, of each predictive score were 89.29% and 96.15% for t(12;21), 75.00% and 88.19% for t(9;22), 84.21% and 99.04% for t(11q23), and 85.71% and 92.71% for t(1;19).ConclusionFour highly specific and significantly sensitive FCM‐obtained SSs are proposed for the prediction of the four major translocations observed in patients with B‐ALL. Prospective evaluation of the proposed SSs could lead to a better targeted cytogenetic investigation and therefore to more cost‐effective laboratory practice.
Novel role of the clustered miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p in enhanced expression of fibrosis‐associated genes by targeting TGFBR3 in atrial fibroblasts
Authors: Yang Zhenzhen , Xiao Zhen , Guo Huiming , Fang Xianhong , Liang Jingnan , Zhu Jiening , Yang Jing , Li Hui , Pan Rong , Yuan Shujing , Dong Wenyan , Zheng Xi‐Long , Wu Shulin , Shan Zhixin 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAtrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia in cardiovascular diseases. Atrial fibrosis is an important pathophysiological contributor to AF. This study aimed to investigate the role of the clustered miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p in atrial fibrosis. Human atrial fibroblasts (HAFs) were isolated from atrial appendage tissue of patients with sinus rhythm. A cell model of atrial fibrosis was achieved in Ang‐II‐induced HAFs. Cell proliferation and migration were detected. We found that miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p were markedly increased in atrial appendage tissues of AF patients and in Ang‐II‐treated HAFs. Overexpression of miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p enhanced the expression of collagen, type I, alpha 1 (COL1A1), COL3A1 and ACTA2 in HAFs without significant effects on their proliferation and migration. Luciferase assay showed that miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p targeted two different sites in 3ʹ‐UTR of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 receptor 3 (TGFBR3) respectively. Consistently, TGFBR3 siRNA could increase fibrosis‐related genes expression, along with the Smad1 inactivation and Smad3 activation in HAFs. Additionally, overexpression of TGFBR3 could alleviate the increase of COL1A1, COL3A1 and ACTA2 in HAFs after transfection with miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p respectively. Moreover, Smad3 was activated in HAFs in response to Ang‐II treatment and inactivation of Smad3 attenuated up‐regulation of miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p in Ang‐II‐treated HAFs. Taken together, these results suggest that the clustered miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p consistently promote atrial fibrosis by targeting TGFBR3 to activate Smad3 signalling in HAFs, suggesting that miR‐23b‐3p and miR‐27b‐3p are potential therapeutic targets for atrial fibrosis.
MicroRNA‐205 is associated with diabetes mellitus‐induced erectile dysfunction via down‐regulating the androgen receptor
Authors: Wen Yan , Liu Guohui , Zhang Yun , Li Hai 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAs a major class of regulatory genes in majority metazoans, microRNAs (miRs) play an important role in various diseases including diabetes mellitus (DM). Lack of androgens has previously been associated with DM‐induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). In addition, the biological functioning of androgen is mediated by androgen receptor (AR). Herein, we sought to investigate whether miRs participate in AR‐associated DMED. Sprague‐Dawlay rats were employed to establish DMED models. After modelling, levels of miR‐205 and AR in their cavernous bodies were measured. The relationship between miR‐205 and AR was verified using a dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of miR‐205 were investigated in concert with the treatment of mimics or inhibitors of miR‐205, or AR overexpression in the cavernous smooth muscle cells (CSMCs) isolated from rats with DMED. Meanwhile, the effects of miR‐205 and AR on cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated using MTT assay and flow cytometry respectively. Rats with DMED presented with increased miR‐205 and decreased AR levels in the cavernous bodies. AR was identified as a target gene of miR‐205. Down‐regulation of miR‐205 or up‐regulation of AR could increase proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of CSMCs in addition to improvements in the erectile functioning of rats with DMED. In summary, miR‐205 may contribute to the pathogenesis of DMED via down‐regulation of AR expressions.
Antibiotic prophylaxis at dental implant placement: Which is the best protocol? A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Romandini Mario , De Tullio Ilaria , Congedi Francesca , Kalemaj Zamira , D‘Ambrosio Mattia , Laforí Andreina , Quaranta Ciro , Buti Jacopo , Perfetti Giorgio 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAimThis systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aims to answer to the following question: “In patients undergoing dental implant placement, which is the best antibiotic prophylaxis protocol to prevent early failures?”Materials and MethodsThe MEDLINE, SCOPUS, CENTRAL and Web of Knowledge electronic databases were searched in duplicate for RCTs up to July 2017. Additional relevant literature was identified through (i) handsearching on both relevant journals and reference lists, and (ii) searching in databases for grey literature. A network meta‐analysis (NMA) was conducted, and the probability that each protocol is the “Best” was estimated.ResultsNine RCTs were included, with a total of 1,693 participants. Due to the few events reported, it was not possible to conduct a NMA for adverse events, therefore it was conducted only for implant failures (IF). The protocol with the highest probability (32.5%) of being the “Best” one to prevent IF was the single dose of 3 g of amoxicillin administered 1 hr pre‐operatively. Even if the single pre‐operative dose of 2 g of amoxicillin is the most used, it achieved only a probability of 0.2% to be the “Best” one.ConclusionsBasing on the available RCTs, the use of antibiotic prophylaxis is protective against early implant failures. Whenever an antibiotic prophylaxis is needed, there is still insufficient evidence to confidently recommend a specific dosage. The use of post‐operative courses does not seem however to be justified by the available literature. Prospero registration number: CRD42015029708.
The Trypanosoma brucei RNA‐Binding Protein TbRRM1 is Involved in the Transcription of a Subset of RNA Pol II‐Dependent Genes
Authors: Bañuelos Carolina P. , Levy Gabriela V. , Níttolo Analía G. , Roser Leandro G. , Tekiel Valeria , Sánchez Daniel O. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractIt has been long thought that RNA Polymerase (Pol) II transcriptional regulation does not operate in trypanosomes. However, recent reports have suggested that these organisms could regulate RNA Pol II transcription by epigenetic mechanisms. In this paper, we investigated the role of TbRRM1 in transcriptional regulation of RNA Pol II‐dependent genes by focusing both in genes located in a particular polycistronic transcription unit (PTU) and in the monocistronic units of the SL‐RNA genes. We showed that TbRRM1 is recruited throughout the PTU, with a higher presence on genes than intergenic regions. However, its depletion leads both to the decrease of nascent RNA and to chromatin compaction only of regions located distal to the main transcription start site. These findings suggest that TbRRM1 facilitates the RNA Pol II transcriptional elongation step by collaborating to maintain an open chromatin state in particular regions of the genome. Interestingly, the SL‐RNA genes do not recruit TbRRM1 and, after TbRRM1 knockdown, nascent SL‐RNAs accumulate while the chromatin state of these regions remains unchanged. Although it was previously suggested that TbRRM1 could regulate RNA Pol II‐driven genes, we provide here the first experimental evidence which involves TbRRM1 to transcriptional regulation.
Microneedling on the external female genitalia's flaccidity in patients with Ehlers‐Danlos: Case report
Authors: Gomes Tâmara , Baqueiro Priscilla , Oliveira Caroline , Alves Rafael , Lordelo Patrícia 
Published: February 2019

SummaryIntroductionThe Ehlers‐Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can presentis a reduction in fibroblast proliferation and collagen production. Microneedling a minimally invasive technique that through mechanical stimulus there is incentive to the production of collagen and elastin.ObjectivePresent a case study in a patient with EDS complaining of flaccidity on large genital labia, using microneedling as a therapeutic proposal.MethodologyA 36‐year‐old female with EDS type III. The external genitalia showed tissue flaccidity associated with hyperchromia. Microneedling was performed with 0.5 mm needles and the cosmetology was used soon after the application. The level of pain was questioned to the patient through a Likert scale. The clinical response to treatment was evaluated through self‐report, visual analogue scale and analysis of photographic images. Five other people evaluated the results through before and after images.ResultsMicroneedle was shown to be bearable in relation to pain and associated with cosmetology for tissue flaccidity due to EDS in the genital region proved to be very satisfactory for the patient, as well individuals who evaluated the comparative image.ConclusionMicroneedle associated with cosmetology may be a new option for studies on skin flaccidity treatments on individuals with EDS and for treatments of genitalhyperchromias
Phytoplankton assemblages and community structure in tropical temporary freshwater ponds in sub‐Saharan Africa1
Authors: Zongo Bilassé , Zongo Frédéric , Thiombiano Adjima , Boussim Joseph I. 
Published: February 2019

Anthropogenic and climatic factors are important determinants of algal distribution in aquatic systems. This study aimed to identify temporary pond‐groups of phytoplankton assemblages and to establish the interactions between environmental variables and phytoplankton structure. Phytoplankton samples were collected and preserved with 5% formalin; water samples for chemical analysis were taken in August and September 2007, 2008, and 2009 in 86 ponds randomly selected in the Sahelian sector and the Sudanian sector (protected and unprotected areas) of Burkina Faso. Plankton species were examined using light microscopy and identified using standard methods. A Fuchs‐Rosenthal chamber was used for algal cell counting. NMDS ordination, indicator species analysis and canonical analysis were performed using Pc‐Ord and CANOCO. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U‐tests using the software Statistica were performed to compare parameters between pond‐groups. Three pond‐groups were identified: the Sahelian pond‐group, dominated by Lyngbya martensiana and Pseudanabaena constricta; the protected area pond‐group, dominated by Euglena caudata and Trachelomonas raciborskii; and the unprotected area pond‐group, dominated by Closterium venus and Euglena proxima. At P < 0.05, species composition and abundance in algal groups were mostly associated with nitrate, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity. The Sahelian and the Sudanian sectors were different in pH, water transparency, and species richness. Univariate and multivariate analyses illustrate that variations in the physicochemical properties of water and algal structure followed climatic and anthropogenic gradients. The classification of ponds into algal associations demonstrated that algal assemblages may be used as reliable indicators of habitat conditions.
Testing mechanisms of compensatory fitness of dioecy in a cosexual world
Authors: Wang Yunyun , Mazer Susan J. , Freckleton Robert P. , Yuan Zuoqiang , Wang Xugao , Du Yanjun , Lin Luxiang , Wang Xihua , Sang Weiguo , Liu Xiaojuan , Hao Zhanqing 
Published: February 2019

AbstractQuestionsAll else being equal, populations of dioecious species with a 50:50 sex ratio have only half the effective reproductive population size of bisexual species of equal abundance. Consequently, there is a need to explain how dioecious and bisexual species coexist. Increased mean individual seed mass, fecundity, and population density have all been proposed as attributes of unisexual individuals or populations that may contribute to the persistence or resilience of dioecious species. To date, no studies have compared sympatric dioecious and cosexual species with respect to all three components of fitness. In this study, we sought evidence for these compensatory advantages (higher seed mass, greater seed production per unit basal area, and higher population density) in dioecious species.LocationFive 20–25 ha forest dynamic plots spanning a latitudinal gradient in China, including two temperate, two subtropical, and one tropical forest.MethodsWe used a phylogenetically corrected generalized linear modelling approach to assess the phylogenetic dependence and joint evolution of sexual system, seed mass and production, and ecological abundances among 48–333 species and 32,568–136,237 individuals per forest.ResultsAcross all five forests, we detected no consistent advantage for dioecious relative to sympatric cosexual species with respect to mean individual seed mass, seed production or the density of stems in any size class.ConclusionsOur study suggests that seed traits may provide compensatory mechanisms in some forests, but most often the coexistence of sexual systems cannot be explained by advantages of dioecy related to seed quality and demographic parameters. Future investigations of the factors that promote coexistence may increase our understanding by expanding the search to include attributes such as lifespan and tolerance or resistance to herbivores.
Population genomic analysis of mango (Mangifera indica) suggests a complex history of domestication
Authors: Warschefsky Emily J. , von Wettberg Eric J. B. 
Published: February 2019

Summary

Humans have domesticated diverse species from across the plant kingdom, yet much of our foundational knowledge of domestication has come from studies investigating relatively few of the most important annual food crops. Here, we examine the impacts of domestication on genetic diversity in a tropical perennial fruit species, mango (Mangifera indica).

We used restriction site associated DNA sequencing to generate genomic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data from 106 mango cultivars from seven geographical regions along with 52 samples of closely related species and unidentified cultivars to identify centers of mango genetic diversity and examine how post‐domestication dispersal shaped the geographical distribution of diversity.

We identify two gene pools of cultivated mango, representing Indian and Southeast Asian germplasm. We found no significant genetic bottleneck associated with the introduction of mango into new regions of the world. By contrast, we show that mango populations in introduced regions have elevated levels of diversity.

Our results suggest that mango has a more complex history of domestication than previously supposed, perhaps including multiple domestication events, hybridization and regional selection. Our work has direct implications for mango breeding and genebank management, and also builds on recent efforts to understand how woody perennial crops respond to domestication.
Older people nursing in care homes: An examination of nursing professionals' self‐assessed competence and its predictors
Authors: Kiljunen Outi , Partanen Pirjo , Välimäki Tarja , Kankkunen Päivi 
Published: February 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe need for older people nursing expertise is increasing, and every effort is required to ensure that personnel taking care of older people are capable of providing high‐quality care.AimsTo explore care home nursing professionals' self‐rated competence in older people nursing and to identify predictors of this competence.DesignA cross‐sectional survey design.MethodData were collected in August‐September 2017 via an electronic questionnaire using the newly developed Nurse Competence in Care Home Scale (NCCHS). Participants (n = 781) were recruited via nurses’ associations and social media. They were working in care homes either as licensed practical nurses (n = 680) or as registered nurse and/or in managerial position (n = 101).FindingsApproximately 65% of the respondents had “adequate competence,” and 35% had “inadequate competence” in older people nursing based on self‐assessed overall competence. Respondents rated their competence highest in “observation, communication, interaction” and lowest in “group guidance and activities” subscale. Age and further training were predictors of licensed practical nurses' competence, and length of work experience predicted registered nurses' competence.ConclusionsSelf‐assessments revealed the need for competence development especially in relation to holistic support of a person's well‐being. It is recommended that care home nurses, managers, educators and curriculum developers all strive to develop care home staff's ability to support residents' well‐being holistically.Implications for practiceNursing personnel should consider all aspects of older people’s well‐being holistically. In care homes, it is essential to assess nursing staff competence and to provide possibilities for competence development for personnel.