bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The human claustrum is functionally connected to cognitive networks and involved in cognitive control
Authors: Krimmel Samuel R. , White Michael G. , Panicker Matthew H. , Barrett Frederick S. , Mathur Brian N. , Seminowicz David A. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe claustrum is among the most highly connected structures in the mammalian brain. However, the function of the claustrum is unknown, which is due to its peculiar anatomical arrangement. Here, we use resting state and task functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to elucidate claustrum function in human subjects. We first describe a method to reveal claustrum signal with no linear relationship with adjacent regions. We applied this approach to resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) analysis of the claustrum at high resolution (1.5 mm isotropic voxels) using a 7T dataset (n=20) and a separate 3T dataset for replication (n=35). We then assessed claustrum activation during performance of a cognitive task, the multi-source interference task, at 3T (n=33). Extensive functional connectivity was observed between claustrum and cortical regions associated with cognitive control, including anterior cingulate, prefrontal and parietal cortices. Cognitive task performance was associated with widespread activation and deactivation that overlapped with the cortical areas showing functional connectivity to the claustrum. Furthermore, the claustrum was significantly activated at the onset of the difficult condition of the task, but not during the remainder of the difficult condition. These data suggest that the claustrum can be functionally isolated with fMRI, and that it is involved in cognitive control in humans independent of sensorimotor processing.HighlightsRemoving signal from neighboring structures isolates claustrum BOLD signal at 7T and 3T field strengthClaustrum is extensively functionally connected with cortex, including cognitive networksClaustrum is activated at the onset of a cognitive conflict taskClaustrum may be involved in cognition independent of sensorimotor processing
Fast, multicolor 3-D imaging of brain organoids with a new single-objective two-photon virtual light-sheet microscope
Authors: Rakotoson Irina , Delhomme Brigitte , Djian Philippe , Deeg Andreas , Brunstein Maia , Seebacher Christian , Uhl Rainer , Ricard Clément , Oheim Martin 
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACTHuman inducible pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) hold a large potential for disease modeling. hiPSC-derived human astrocyte and neuronal cultures permit investigations of neural signaling pathways with subcellular resolution. Combinatorial cultures, and three-dimensional (3-D) embryonic bodies enlarge the scope of investigations to multi-cellular phenomena. A the highest level of complexity, brain organoids that – in many aspects – recapitulate anatomical and functional features of the developing brain permit the study of developmental and morphological aspects of human disease. An ideal microscope for 3-D tissue imaging at these different scales would combine features from both confocal laser-scanning and light-sheet microscopes: a micrometric optical sectioning capacity and sub-micrometric spatial resolution, a large field of view and high frame rate, and a low degree of invasiveness, i.e., ideally, a better photon efficiency than that of a confocal microscope. In the present work, we describe such an instrument that belongs to the class of two-photon (2P) light-sheet microsocpes. Its particularity is that – unlike existing two- or three-lens designs – it is using a single, low-magnification, high-numerical aperture objective for the generation and scanning of a virtual light sheet. The microscope builds on a modified Nipkow-Petran spinning-disk scheme for achieving wide-field excitation. However, unlike the common Yokogawa design that uses a tandem disk, our concept combines micro lenses, dichroic mirrors and detection pinholes on a single disk. This design, advantageous for 2P excitation circumvents problems arising with the tandem disk from the large wavelength-difference between the infrared excitation light and visible fluorescence. 2P fluorescence excited in by the light sheet is collected by the same objective and imaged onto a fast sCMOS camera. We demonstrate three-dimensional imaging of TO-PRO3-stained embryonic bodies and of brain organoids, under control conditions and after rapid (partial) transparisation with triethanolamine and /ormamide (RTF) and compare the performance of our instrument to that of a confocal microscope having a similar numerical aperture. 2P-virtual light-sheet microscopy permits one order of magnitude faster imaging, affords less photobleaching and permits better depth penetration than a confocal microscope with similar spatial resolution.
Three‐dimensional navigation‐guided thoracoscopic combined subsegmentectomy for intersegmental pulmonary nodules
Authors: Wu Wei‐Bing , Xia Yang , Pan Xiang‐Long , Wang Jun , He Zhi‐Cheng , Xu Jing , Wen Wei , Xu Xin‐Feng , Zhu Quan , Chen Liang 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundExtended or combined segmentectomies are usually adapted for intersegmental pulmonary nodules. This study explored precise combined subsegmentectomy (CSS) under the guidance of three‐dimensional computed tomography bronchography and angiography (3D‐CTBA).MethodsThe definition of a pulmonary intersegmental nodule was based on a minimum distance between the nodule and the involved intersegmental veins in the preoperative 3D‐CTBA being less than the size of the nodule. Centering on the involved intersegmental vein, two adjacent subsegments belonging to the different segments were combined as a resected unit.ResultsWe retrospectively reviewed the records of 47 patients (mean age 53.6 ± 12.3, range: 26–81 years) who underwent CSS. Thirty‐nine (83.0%) nodules were involved in most intersegmental locations of the upper lobes; the remainder in the lower lobes. The mean nodule size was 0.86 ± 0.32 cm; the mean margin width was 2.20 ± 0.38 cm. Pathological stages included: Tis (8 cases), T1mi (16), IA1 (T1aN0M0, 13), and IA2 (T1bN0M0, 5). Pathological diagnoses included: invasive adenocarcinoma (18 cases), minimally invasive adenocarcinoma (16), adenocarcinoma in situ (8), atypical adenomatous hyperplasia (3), and benign (2). The average operative duration was 190.8 ± 54.9 minutes; operative hemorrhage was 42.7 ± 23.0 mL; 5.8 ± 2.8 lymph nodes dissected had not metastasized; the duration of postoperative chest tube drainage was 3.0 ± 1.8 days; and the postoperative hospital stay was 5.3 ± 2.4 days.ConclusionsUnder 3D navigation, thoracoscopic CSS is a safe technique for intersegmental nodules, sparing more pulmonary parenchyma and ensuring safe margins to achieve anatomical resection.
Does hypermethylation of CpG island in the promoter region of the E‐cadherin gene increase the risk of lung cancer? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Sun Zhenfeng , Liu Gongzhe , Xu Ning 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundHypermethylation of the CpG island in the promoter regions of tumor suppressor genes is common in the cancer tissue of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Epithelial cadherin (E‐cadherin) is a classic tumor suppressor gene of the cadherin superfamily and its promoter region is usually hypermethylated in malignant carcinomas. However, whether hypermethylation of the CpG island in the promoter region of E‐cadherin increases the risk of lung cancer is unknown. We conducted a meta‐analysis of E‐cadherin gene promoter methylation status in cancer tissue (CT) and autologous controls (AC).MethodsElectronic databases were searched for E‐cadherin gene promoter methylation and NSCLC. The hypermethylation status between CT and AC of NSCLC patients were compared and pooled by random or fixed effect models according to statistical heterogeneity across the included studies.ResultsEleven publications relevant to E‐cadherin gene promoter hypermethylation and lung cancer risk were identified and included. E‐cadherin gene promoter hypermethylation frequency in CT and AC was 0.32 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.22–0.41) and 0.12 (95% CI 0.04–0.20), respectively, with statistical difference (P < 0.05). Significant statistical heterogeneity was found across the 11 studies (I2 = 54.5, P < 0.05). The data was pooled through a random effect model with an odds ratio of 4.21 (95% CI 2.33–7.58) in CT compared to AC.ConclusionThe frequency of E‐cadherin promoter hypermethylation in CT is significantly higher than in AC, indicating that promoter hypermethylation of E‐cadherin plays an important role in NSCLC carcinogenesis.
Impacts of forest management type and season on soil carbon fluxes in Eastern Mau Forest, Kenya
Authors: Tarus George K. , Kirui Bernard K. , Obwoyere Gilbert 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe value of ecosystems functions performed by forests in the climate change era has prompted increasing attention towards assessment of carbon stocks and fluxes in tropical forests. The aim of this study was to understand how forest management approaches and environmental controls impacted on soil CO2 efflux in a tropical Eastern Mau forest which is one of the blocks of the greater Mau complex in Kenya. Nested experimental design approach was employed where 32 plots were nested into four blocks (disturbed natural, undisturbed natural, plantation and glades). In 10 m2 plots, data were collected on soil CO2 efflux, soil temperature and soil moisture using soda lime methods, direct measurement and proxy techniques, respectively. There was significant forest management type effect (F3,127 = 3.01, p = 0.033) and seasonality effect (t test = 3.31, df = 1, p < 0.05) on mean soil CO2 efflux. The recorded mean soil CO2 efflux levels were as follows: plantation forest (9.219 ± 3.067 g C M−2 day−1), undisturbed natural forest (8.665 ± 4.818 g C M−2 day−1), glades (8.592 ± 3.253 g C M−2 day−1) and disturbed natural forest (7.198 ± 3.457 g C M−2 day−1). The study concludes that managing a forest in plantation form is primarily responsible for forest soil CO2 efflux levels due to aspects such as increased microbial activity and root respiration. However, further studies are required to understand the role and impact of soil CO2 efflux on the greater forest carbon budget.
BLT1 signaling in epithelial cells mediates allergic sensitization via promotion of IL‐33 production
Authors: Xiong Yingluo , Cui Xinyi , Li Wenjing , Lv Jiaoyan , Du Lixia , Mi Wenli , Li Huabin , Chen Zhengrong , Leng Qibin , Zhou Hong , He Rui 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundEpithelial cells (ECs) play a crucial role in allergic sensitization to inhaled protease allergens by instructing type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) and dendritic cells (DCs) via release of pro‐type 2 cytokines, particularly interleukin‐33 (IL‐33). Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a well‐known leukocyte chemoattractant via engagement of its receptor 1 (BLT1). However, the role of LTB4‐BLT1 axis in allergic sensitization via activation of ECs is still unknown.MethodsWe evaluated the effect of LTB4‐BLT1 axis on IL‐33 expression and ILC2 activation in vivo and in vitro. Chimeric mice were established to evaluate the contribution of BLT1 expression in nonimmune cell to allergic sensitization.ResultsGenetical or pharmacological interruption of LTB4‐BLT1 axis during sensitization phase markedly reduced papain‐induced IL‐33 expression, decreased ILC2 activation and DC migration, thereby impairing the priming of allergic Th2 responses. Furthermore, papain inhalation induced a rapid release of LTB4 preceding IL‐33, and intranasal administration of LTB4 to naïve WT mice significantly increased IL‐33 expression and ILC2 activation in lung, which was absent in Il33−/− or Ltb4r1−/− mice. Furthermore, BLT1 was expressed in primary mouse ECs or normal human bronchial ECs (NHBE), and papain induced LTB4 release by NHBE, which in turn amplified IL‐33 production dependent on Akt activation via BLT1. Consequently, bone marrow chimeric mice lacking BLT1 in radio‐resistant structural cells failed to develop allergic lung inflammation to papain.ConclusionOur study reveals a functional role of LTB4‐BLT1 axis in nonimmune cells, most likely lung ECs, in controlling allergic sensitization as an upstream regulator of IL‐33.
Mast cell disorders: From infancy to maturity
Authors: Wilcock Amy , Bahri Rajia , Bulfone‐Paus Silvia , Arkwright Peter D. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractMast cells are typically linked to immediate hypersensitivity and anaphylaxis. This review looks beyond this narrow role, focusing on how these cells have evolved and diversified via natural selection promoting serine protease gene duplication, augmenting their innate host defense function against helminths and snake envenomation. Plasticity of mast cell genes has come at a price. Somatic activating mutations in the mast cell growth factor KIT gene cause cutaneous mastocytosis in young children and systemic mastocytosis with a more guarded prognosis in adults who may also harbor other gene mutations with oncogenic potential as they age. Allelic TPSAB1 gene duplication associated with higher basal mast cell tryptase is possibly one of the commonest autosomal dominantly inherited multi‐system diseases affecting the skin, gastrointestinal tract, circulation and musculoskeletal system. Mast cells are also establishing a new‐found importance in severe asthma, and in remodeling of blood vessels in cancer and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that mast cells sense changes in oxygen tension, particularly in neonates, and that subsequent degranulation may contribute to common lung, eye, and brain diseases of prematurity classically associated with hypoxic insults. One hundred and forty years since Paul Ehrlich's initial description of “mastzellen,” this review collates and highlights the complex and diverse roles that mast cells play in health and disease.
High levels of butyrate and propionate in early life are associated with protection against atopy
Authors: Roduit Caroline , Frei Remo , Ferstl Ruth , Loeliger Susanne , Westermann Patrick , Rhyner Claudio , Schiavi Elisa , Barcik Weronika , Rodriguez‐Perez Noelia , Wawrzyniak Marcin , Chassard Christophe , Lacroix Christophe , Schmausser‐Hechfellner Elisabeth , Depner Martin , von Mutius Erika , Braun‐Fahrländer Charlotte , Karvonen Anne M. , Kirjavainen Pirkka V. , Pekkanen Juha , Dalphin Jean‐Charles , Riedler Josef , Akdis Cezmi , Lauener Roger , O'Mahony Liam ,   the PASTURE/EFRAIM study group
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundDietary changes are suggested to play a role in the increasing prevalence of allergic diseases and asthma. Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are metabolites present in certain foods and are produced by microbes in the gut following fermentation of fibers. SCFAs have been shown to have anti‐inflammatory properties in animal models. Our objective was to investigate the potential role of SCFAs in the prevention of allergy and asthma.MethodsWe analyzed SCFA levels by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in fecal samples from 301 one‐year‐old children from a birth cohort and examined their association with early life exposures, especially diet, and allergy and asthma later in life. Data on exposures and allergic diseases were collected by questionnaires. In addition, we treated mice with SCFAs to examine their effect on allergic airway inflammation.ResultsSignificant associations between the levels of SCFAs and the infant's diet were identified. Children with the highest levels of butyrate and propionate (≥95th percentile) in feces at the age of one year had significantly less atopic sensitization and were less likely to have asthma between 3 and 6 years. Children with the highest levels of butyrate were also less likely to have a reported diagnosis of food allergy or allergic rhinitis. Oral administration of SCFAs to mice significantly reduced the severity of allergic airway inflammation.ConclusionOur results suggest that strategies to increase SCFA levels could be a new dietary preventive option for allergic diseases in children.
Toy gun eye injuries – eye protection needed Helsinki ocular trauma study
Authors: Haavisto Anna‐Kaisa , Sahraravand Ahmad , Puska Päivi , Leivo Tiina 
Published: November 2018

AbstractPurposeWe report the epidemiology, findings, treatment, long‐term outcome and use of resources for eye injuries caused by toy guns in southern Finland.MethodsAll new patients injured by toy guns in one year (2011–2012) and treated at Helsinki University Eye Hospital were included. Follow‐ups occurred at 3 months and 5 years.ResultsToy guns caused 15 eye traumas (1% of all eye traumas). Most patients were male (n = 14) and children aged under 16 years (n = 13). Toy guns involved were airsoft guns (n = 12), pea shooters (n = 2) and paintball (n = 1). Eleven patients did not use protective eyewear, and four patients discontinued their use during the game. Seven patients were not active participants in the game. Blunt ocular trauma was the primary diagnosis in 13 patients and corneal abrasion in two. Seven patients had retinal findings. In the 5‐year follow‐up, eight of 15 patients had abnormal ocular findings: three had artificial intraocular lens, two iridodialysis, and one each retinal plomb, mydriasis or iris tear. None had glaucoma. Seven patients had permanent subjective impairment due to pain, lowered visual acuity, blur or difficulty in focusing. Four patients needed seven operations. The number of outpatient visits was 90. One patient required hospitalization.ConclusionToy guns cause serious eye traumas. No glaucoma was found. Proper use of toy guns and protective eyewear during the whole game should be emphasized to both players and bystanders. We recommend that in Finland the selling of airsoft guns be placed under the Firearms Act to make the hazards of airsoft guns known.
Prevalence of anterior polar cataracts in children and risk factors for amblyopia
Authors: Rasul Asrin , Kessel Line 
Published: November 2018

AbstractPurposeAnterior polar cataract is an opacity in the anterior capsule of the lens. Anterior polar cataract has historically been considered as a relatively benign condition. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of anterior polar cataract, to identify the risk factors for amblyopia and to estimate the risk of developing amblyopia in children with anterior polar cataract.MethodsThe medical records for patients with congenital cataracts at the Eye Clinic Rigshospitalet, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup and Kennedy Center covering a ten year period from 2007 to 2016 (both metres years included) were reviewed.ResultsA total of 54 patients with anterior polar cataract were identified. The majority had unilateral anterior polar cataract (72%). Family history of childhood cataracts was frequent (27%) of patients with bilateral anterior polar cataract. There was an overrepresentation of female patients (70%). Amblyopia was found in 55% of the patients. The causes were primarily hypermetropic anisometropia (70%) and astigmatism (52%). Axial length was on average 0.88 mm (SD 0.44) shorter in the eye with anterior polar cataract compared to fellow eyes.ConclusionAnterior polar cataract is a highly amblyogenic condition not because of a visually obstructing lens opacity but because of refractive errors, primarily hypermetropic anisometropia and astigmatism. Anterior polar cataract seems to represent an anomaly in global eye development resulting in reduced axial length. Patients with anterior polar cataract should be monitored to detect and treat amblyopia in time.
My way or the highway: High narcissism and low self‐esteem predict decreased support for democracy
Authors: Marchlewska Marta , Castellanos Kevin A. , Lewczuk Karol , Kofta Mirosław , Cichocka Aleksandra 
Published: November 2018

In two studies, we analysed the relationships between different types of self‐evaluation (i.e., narcissism and self‐esteem) and support for democracy. Support for democracy requires the ability to respect the views and opinions of others, even if one disagrees with them. Classic studies have linked support for democracy with high self‐evaluation, which should assume psychological security and, thus, the ability to trust others. However, not all forms of high self‐evaluation are secure. Narcissists have high feelings of self‐worth, but tend to be defensive: They are easily threatened by criticisms or conflicting views. We then expected that while support for democracy should be positively predicted by secure, non‐narcissistic self‐evaluation, it should be negatively predicted by narcissistic self‐evaluation. In two studies, conducted in the United States (Study 1,n = 407) and in Poland (Study 2,n = 405), support for democracy was positively predicted by self‐esteem and negatively predicted by narcissism. Study 2 additionally demonstrated that interpersonal trust mediated the effects of self‐esteem on support for democracy. We discuss the role of psychological predispositions in understanding support for democratic systems.
Counting Young Carers in Switzerland – A Study of Prevalence
Authors: Leu Agnes , Frech Marianne , Wepf Hannah , Sempik Joe , Joseph Stephen , Helbling Laura , Moser Urs , Becker Saul , Jung Corinna 
Published: November 2018

An online survey of children in school grades 4–9 (mostly aged 10–15) was conducted in order to determine the prevalence of young carers in Switzerland using a 2‐stage stratified sampling approach. 4082 respondents were drawn from 230 schools. A total of 3991 respondents were included in the analysis and of these 307 (7.7%) were identified as young carers. The population estimate of prevalence was 7.9 per cent. This suggests that there are around 38 400 young carers in school grades 4–9 in Switzerland. Extrapolating to the 9–16 age group gives a figure of almost 51 500.
Public investment under autocracy and social unrest
Authors: Gwatipedza Johnson , Janus Thorsten 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis paper studies the determinants of public investment under autocracy. The optimal investment level balances rent extraction with increasing the future tax base and preventing social unrest. The citizens balance their time between producing and protesting. The labor supply is downward distorted. The public investment level suffers three downward distortions and a fourth, potentially upward distortion. The joint distortions can generate moderate to large efficiency losses. Empirically we show that government spending in autocracies varies more and is less related to tax collections than in democracies. Additionally, it responds to democratization pressure.