bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Alternative migratory locust phenotypes are associated with differences in the expression of genes encoding the methylation machinery
Authors: Robinson K. L. , Tohidi‐Esfahani D. , Ponton F. , Simpson S. J. , Sword G. A. , Lo N. 
Published: November 2015

AbstractDespite the importance of locust density‐dependent polyphenism as a model system for understanding phenotypic plasticity, there is still much to be learnt about its underlying molecular control. Here we describe the first investigation into the expression of genes encoding the DNA methylation machinery in the migratory locust (Locusta migratoria). We show that the alternative solitarious and gregarious phenotypic states induced by different locust rearing densities are associated with significant differences in the expression of the target genes DNA methyltransferase 1, DNA methyltransferase 2 and methyl‐CpG‐binding domain protein 2/3. This variation was most pronounced in the embryos of solitarious vs. gregarious mothers. We mapped the embryonic methylation profiles of several intragenic regions and a Long Interspersed Nuclear Element (LINE), each of which is known to be differentially expressed between alternative locust phenotypes or has been directly implicated in phase change. LmI and three genes, adenyl cyclase‐associated binding protein 2, choline kinase alpha‐like and henna, were methylated. Our results set the stage for future studies investigating the specific role of DNA methylation in the maternal transfer of migratory locust phase polyphenism.
Does antenatal education reduce fear of childbirth?
Authors: Karabulut Ö. , Coşkuner Potur D. , Doğan Merih Y. , Cebeci Mutlu S. , Demirci N. 
Published: November 2015

AimThe aim of this study was to determine the effect of antenatal education on fear of childbirth, acceptance of pregnancy and identification with motherhood role.BackgroundThere is insufficient evidence pertaining to the effect of antenatal education on fear of childbirth, acceptance of pregnancy and identification with motherhood role.IntroductionThe purpose of antenatal education is to help couples make the right decisions during delivery. Through antenatal education, couples prepare themselves for delivery.MethodsThis is a quasi‐experimental and prospective study that employs a pre‐ and post‐education model. In total, 192 pregnant women (education group, n = 69 and control group, n = 123) participated in the study. Data were collected using the pregnancy identification form: the Prenatal Self‐Evaluation Questionnaire and a version of the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire.ResultsPrior to participating in the study, the education group and control group had similar levels of acceptance of pregnancy and identification with motherhood role, whereas a significant difference was found in their fear of childbirth levels. When surveyed again after receiving education, the two groups' levels of acceptance of pregnancy and fear of childbirth were found to be significantly different. However, they had similar levels of identification with the motherhood role.ConclusionAntenatal education appears to increase the acceptance of pregnancy, does not affect the identification with motherhood role and reduces the fear of childbirth.Implications for nursing and health policyA systematic antenatal education programme, as part of routine antenatal care services, would help reduce the rate of interventional labour and facilitate pregnant women's conscious participation in the act of labour by reducing their fear of childbirth.
iPSC‐derived human cardiac progenitor cells improve ventricular remodelling via angiogenesis and interstitial networking of infarcted myocardium
Authors: Ja KP Myu Mia , Miao Qingfeng , Tee Nicole Gui Zhen , Lim Sze Yun , Nandihalli Manasi , Ramachandra Chrishan J.A. , Mehta Ashish , Shim Winston 
Published: November 2015

AbstractWe investigate the effects of myocardial transplantation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived progenitors and cardiomyocytes into acutely infarcted myocardium in severe combined immune deficiency mice. A total of 2 × 105 progenitors, cardiomyocytes or cell‐free saline were injected into peri‐infarcted anterior free wall. Sham‐operated animals received no injection. Myocardial function was assessed at 2‐week and 4‐week post‐infarction by using echocardiography and pressure‐volume catheterization. Early myocardial remodelling was observed at 2‐week with echocardiography derived stroke volume (SV) in saline (20.45 ± 7.36 μl, P < 0.05) and cardiomyocyte (19.52 ± 3.97 μl, P < 0.05) groups, but not in progenitor group (25.65 ± 3.61 μl), significantly deteriorated as compared to sham control group (28.41 ± 4.41 μl). Consistently, pressure–volume haemodynamic measurements showed worsening chamber dilation in saline (EDV: 23.24 ± 5.01 μl, P < 0.05; ESV: 17.08 ± 5.82 μl, P < 0.05) and cardiomyocyte (EDV: 26.45 ± 5.69 μl, P < 0.05; ESV: 18.03 ± 6.58 μl, P < 0.05) groups by 4‐week post‐infarction as compared to control (EDV: 15.26 ± 2.96 μl; ESV: 8.41 ± 2.94 μl). In contrast, cardiac progenitors (EDV: 20.09 ± 7.76 μl; ESV: 13.98 ± 6.74 μl) persistently protected chamber geometry against negative cardiac remodelling. Similarly, as compared to sham control (54.64 ± 11.37%), LV ejection fraction was preserved in progenitor group from 2‐(38.68 ± 7.34%) to 4‐week (39.56 ± 13.26%) while cardiomyocyte (36.52 ± 11.39%, P < 0.05) and saline (35.34 ± 11.86%, P < 0.05) groups deteriorated early at 2‐week. Improvements of myocardial function in the progenitor group corresponded to increased vascularization (16.12 ± 1.49/mm2 to 25.48 ± 2.08/mm2 myocardial tissue, P < 0.05) and coincided with augmented networking of cardiac telocytes in the interstitial space of infarcted zone.
P2Y12 antagonist attenuates eosinophilic inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in a mouse model of asthma
Authors: Suh Dong‐Hyeon , Trinh Hoang Kim Tu , Liu Jing‐Nan , Pham Le Duy , Park Sang Myun , Park Hae‐Sim , Shin Yoo Seob 
Published: November 2015

AbstractLeukotriene E4 (LTE4) that plays a key role in airway inflammation is expressed on platelets and eosinophils. We investigated whether blocking of the P2Y12 receptor can suppress eosinophilic inflammation in a mouse model of asthma because platelets and eosinophils share this receptor to be activated. BALB/c mice were sensitized by intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin (OVA), followed by OVA nebulization. On each challenge day, clopidogrel, a P2Y12 antagonist was administered 30 min. before each challenge. Forty‐eight hours after the last OVA challenge, mice were assessed for airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), cell composition and cytokine levels, including chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. EOL cells were treated with LTE4, with or without clopidogrel treatment, and intracellular and extracellular eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) expressions were measured to find the inhibiting function of P2Y12 antagonist on eosinophilic activation. The levels of P2Y12 expression were increased markedly in the lung homogenates of OVA‐sensitized and ‐challenged mice after platelet depletion. Administration of clopidogrel decreased AHR and the number of airway inflammatory cells, including eosinophils, in BAL fluid following OVA challenge. These results were associated with decreased levels of Th2 cytokines and CCL5. Histological examination showed that inflammatory cells as well as mucus‐containing goblet cells were reduced in clopidogrel‐administered mice compared to vehicle‐treated mice. Clopidogrel inhibited extracellular ECP secretion after LTE4 stimulation in EOL‐1 cells. Clopidogrel could prevent development of AHR and airway inflammation in a mouse model of asthma. P2Y12 can be a novel therapeutic target to the suppression of eosinophils in asthma.
Methods to characterize selective sweeps using time serial samples: an ancient DNA perspective
Authors: Malaspinas Anna‐Sapfo 
Published: November 2015

AbstractWith hundreds of ancient genomes becoming available this year, ancient DNA research has now entered the genomics era. Utilizing the temporal aspect of these new data, we can now address fundamental evolutionary questions such as the characterization of selection processes shaping the genomes. The temporal dimension in the data has spurred the development in the last 10 years of new methods allowing the detection of loci evolving non‐neutrally but also the inference of selection coefficients across genomes capitalizing on these time serial data. To guide empirically oriented researchers towards the statistical approach most appropriate for their data, this article reviews several of those methods, discussing their underlying assumptions and the parameter ranges for which they have been developed. While I discuss some methods developed for experimental evolution, the main focus is ancient DNA.
Outcomes of dexmedetomidine treatment in pediatric patients undergoing congenital heart disease surgery: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Wanying , Wang Yueting , Lin Lin , Zhou Ge , Hua Xiaoxiao , Mo Liqiu 
Published: November 2015

SummaryBackgroundDexmedetomidine decreases cardiac complications in adults undergoing cardiovascular surgery. This systematic review assessed whether perioperative dexmedetomidine improves congenital heart disease (CHD) surgery outcomes in children.MethodsThe PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or observational studies that were published until 16 April 2015 and compared dexmedetomidine with placebo or an alternative anesthetic agent during pediatric CHD surgery. The assessed outcomes included hemodynamics, ventilation length, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stays, blood glucose and serum cortisol levels, postoperative analgesia requirements, and postoperative delirium.ResultsFive RCTs and nine observational studies involving 2229 patients were included. In pooled analyses, dexmedetomidine was associated with shorter length of mechanical ventilation (mean difference: −93.36, 95% CI: −137.45, −49.27), lower postoperative fentanyl (mean difference: −24.11, 95% CI: −36.98, −11.24) and morphine (mean difference: −0.07, 95% CI: −0.14, 0.00) requirements, reduced stress response (i.e., lower blood glucose and serum cortisol levels), and lower risk of delirium (OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.74). The hemodynamics of dexmedetomidine‐treated patients appeared more stable, but there were no significant differences in the ICU or hospital stay durations. Dexmedetomidine may increase the bradycardia and hypotension risk (OR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.47, 6.69).ConclusionsCurrent evidence indicates that dexmedetomidine improves outcomes in children undergoing CHD surgery. However, this finding largely relies on data from observational studies; high‐quality RCTs are warranted because of the potential for subject selection bias.
Vernalization response of domesticated × wild chickpea progeny is subject to strong genotype by environment interaction
Authors: Pinhasi van‐Oss Ruth , Sherman Amir , Zhang Hong‐Bin , Vandemark George , Coyne Clarice , Abbo Shahal 
Published: November 2015

AbstractVernalization insensitivity is a key feature of domesticated chickpea, and its genetic basis is not well understood. We studied vernalization response among hybrid progeny derived from two domesticated × wild crosses. The wild parents are vernalization‐sensitive, late‐flowering genotypes while both domesticated parents are vernalization insensitive. Parental lines and hybrid progeny were tested with (28 days at 4°C) and without vernalization (control). The difference in mean days to flower (∆DTF) between control and vernalization treatments was used to assess the flowering vernalization response. A wide range of ∆DTF values was observed among the hybrid progeny. Strong genotype by environment interaction effect on ∆DTF was observed for the parental accessions and hybrid progeny. We used the ∆DTF values to select vernalization responsive and non‐responsive progeny lines. However, the genotype × environment interaction strongly interfered with our selection. Chickpea breeders interested in using the wild progenitor as a donor of exotic traits should be aware of the possibility of introducing vernalization response alleles that may alter the phenology of their breeding materials in an unpredictable manner.
Pre‐infection processes of Botryosphaeriaceae spp.: adhesion of conidia to different substrata
Authors: Sammonds J. , Jaspers M. V. , Jones E. E. 
Published: November 2015

Species of Botryosphaeriaceae are important wound pathogens of grapevines as causal agents of botryosphaeria dieback, but the behaviour of their conidia pre‐infection is unknown and may be important for disease development. Adhesion properties of conidia were investigated for Botryosphaeria dothidea, Neofusicoccum luteum and N. parvum on substrata with different affinities for water. Greatest adhesion on any surface was reached after 5 min for isolates N. luteum MM558, B. dothidea 007 and N. parvum G652 (53·1, 54·0 and 50·6%, respectively) and for N. luteum isolate CC445 after 20 min (61·4%). As conidia adhered well to all artificial substrata, it appeared as if the attachment process was nonspecific. Overall, surface wettability did not play a major role in the adhesion of conidia. Spore surface proteins appeared to play a role in the adhesion process because treatment of conidia of N. luteum MM558 with a protease completely prevented adhesion. Histochemical labelling of conidia and germlings with Coomassie brilliant blue (specific for proteins) was positive for all isolates, with a blue ‘halo’ often seen surrounding conidia or near the germ tube emergence point after incubation times conducive to germination. Alcian blue also stained material surrounding conidia after longer incubation times, which indicated that mucopolysaccharide and protein production may be involved in a second phase of adhesion.
A rational approach to single, dual and triple therapy in COPD
Authors: Calverley Peter , Vlies Ben 
Published: November 2015

AbstractThe complexity of COPD treatment has increased over the last 5 years mainly because of the proliferation of drugs and delivery devices. In this paper, we will focus on currently available therapy used for maintaining patient well‐being rather than acute relief of symptoms. We propose a series of principles for rational therapy, and following a review of how currently available treatments perform in isolation and when compared with each other, we suggest an approach to aid the rational selection of the most appropriate treatment based on current evidence.
Hematology of dugongs (Dugong dugon) in southern Queensland
Authors: Woolford Lucy , Wong Arthur , Sneath Helen L. , Long Trevor , Boyd Susan P. , Lanyon Janet M. 
Published: November 2015

BackgroundLittle is known of the hematology of the dugong (Dugong dugon), a secretive and endangered coastal marine mammal.ObjectivesThis paper reports hematologic reference intervals (RI) for dugongs and characterizes morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural features of dugong leukocytes.MethodsBlood was collected from live, apparently healthy dugongs and analyzed using Cell‐Dyn 3700 or SysmexXT‐2000iV hematology analyzers. Blood films were subjected to a series of cytochemical stains, and leukocyte structure was examined using transmission electron microscopy.ResultsReference intervals were established for 14 hematologic variables, total solids, and fibrinogen for 92 dugongs. Significant differences in some variables were found for animal size class, sex, and pregnancy status, and between analyzers. Subadults had higher leukocyte and lymphocyte counts than adults. Males had higher total solids and fibrinogen than females. Pregnant females had higherHCT,MCV, and circulating nucleatedRBC, and lower platelet counts than nonpregnant females. Lymphocytes were usually the predominant circulating leukocyte. Heterophil cytoplasmic granules were abundant, fine, round to ovoid, and intensely eosinophilic, and round to ovoid or rod‐shaped, and variably electron dense in electron microscopy. Eosinophils contained larger round eosinophilic to orange cytoplasmic granules, which ultrastructurally were bicompartmental with a round eccentric electron‐dense core. Cytochemical staining of dugong heterophils suggests biochemical similarity to those of manatees and elephants, and for eosinophils, similarity to those of elephants, ruminants, and equids.ConclusionsGeneration of hematologicRIand characterization of leukocyte morphology improves evaluation of dugong health across this population and serves as a reference for other populations outside southern Queensland.
The impact of diagnosis: measuring the psychological response to being diagnosed with serious or potentially lethal cardiac disease in young competitive athletes
Authors: Asif Irfan M , Price David E , Ewing Alex , Rao Ashwin L , Harmon Kimberly G , Drezner Jonathan A 
Published: November 2015

AimTo determine the psychological impact of athletes diagnosed with cardiac disease.Methods and designAthletes diagnosed with cardiovascular disorders were recruited to complete the Impact of Event Scale (IES), a validated tool measuring responses to a traumatic event. IES scoring =0–88 (<12= normal, 12–32=recommend monitoring, >33=significant stress reaction). Subscales include: intrusion, avoidance and hyperarousal.Results30 athletes (53% male, 83% Caucasian, median age 18.0, median age at diagnosis 15.7) participated. Diagnoses included: 6 hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, 9 Wolff Parkinson White, 4 Long QT syndrome, 3 atrial septal defect, 2 supraventricular tachycardia and 6 other. For the group, the mean IES-Revised (IES-R) score=16.6 (SD=12.1), subscales: intrusion 6.6 (SD=4.3), avoidance=7.4 (SD=6.5), hyperarousal=2.7 (SD=3.5). Higher risk individuals included: permanently disqualified athletes (p<0.01), athletes requiring daily medication (p<0.01), those with genetically inheritable conditions (p<0.01), and athletes undergoing medical management instead of definitive therapy (p<0.01). No differences were reported by gender (male=16.6, female=16.6). Higher IES-R scores were reported in more competitive athletes (college=17.8, high school=13.3; p=0.369) and African-American individuals (African-American=25.8, Caucasian=14.8 p=0.061), although not statistically significant. Athletes with cardiomyopathy (IES-R=24) and channelopathy (IES-R=28) reported the highest IES results. Athletes with high IES-R scores were most likely to psychologically respond through avoidance of feelings/situations/ideas.ConclusionsAthletes diagnosed with potentially lethal cardiac disorders are at risk for significant psychological distress. These athletes tend to avoid thoughts, feelings and conversations associated with their diagnosis and should be offered consistent emotional support to mitigate psychological morbidity.SignificanceCurrently, there are no recommendations to guide physicians on how to support an athlete that is newly diagnosed with a potentially career altering heart condition. Proper planning and use of appropriate support mechanisms can be useful for emotionally vulnerable athletes.
Perceived ethical acceptability of financial incentives to improve diabetic eye screening attendance
Authors: Wadge Hester , Bicknell Colin , Vlaev Ivo 
Published: November 2015

ObjectiveTo test the ethical acceptability of using financial incentives to increase diabetic retinopathy screening attendance.BackgroundFinancial incentives could be an effective way to increase attendance at screening for diabetic retinopathy, although there can be ethical concerns about this approach.DesignSurvey of people with diabetes in North West London. Those who were due to attend a screening appointment were invited to complete a questionnaire. Key demographic variables included age, gender, and deprivation.Setting and participantsA questionnaire was issued to those invited to attend screening in North West London and those who run the screening service. The questionnaire captured views on aspects of the ethical problem and different incentive types.Main variables studiedIt captured views on the different dimensions of the ethical problem and different types of incentive. In order to understand how views might vary within a population, demographic variables were used to analyze the results.Results and conclusionsVouchers were found to be the most acceptable form of incentive, significantly more so than cash payments. Most rejected the notion of targeting those who need incentivizing, preferring equality. Age was an important factor, with those aged between 40 and 64 the most optimistic about the potential benefits. Higher levels of deprivation were linked to increased acceptability scores. While some ethical concerns are strongly held among certain groups, there is also much support for the principle of incentivizing positive behaviors. This paves the way for future research into the effectiveness of incentivizing diabetic retinopathy screening attendance.
Beyond height and weight: a programme of school nurse assessed skinfold measurements from white British and South Asian origin children aged 4–5 years within the Born in Bradford cohort study
Authors: West Jane , Santorelli Gillian , Lennon Laura , O'Connell Kathy , Corkett John , Wright John , Brierley Shirley , Whincup Peter , Cameron Noel , Lawlor Debbie A 
Published: November 2015

ObjectiveTo describe the feasibility, reliability and additional information gained from collecting additional body fatness measures (beyond height and weight) from UK reception year children.DesignProspective cohort study.SettingBradford, UK.Participants2458 reception year children participating in the Born in Bradford (BiB) cohort study.Main outcome measuresThe feasibility and reliability of subscapular and triceps skinfold measurements and differences in adiposity between ethnic groups.ResultsOf those children who were matched to their school, 91% had a subscapular skinfold measurement and 92% had a triceps skinfold measurement recorded. Reliability was generally over 90% for all measurers and both measurements. Pakistani children were slightly taller but weighed less and had lower triceps skinfold thickness (mean difference −1.8 mm, 95% CI −2.1 to −1.4 mm) but higher subscapular (mean difference 0.1 mm, 95% CI −0.1 to 0.4 mm) than white British children.ConclusionsWe have shown that it is feasible for school nurses to collect skinfold measurements in a similar way to the height and weight measurements collected from reception year children for the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP), and that these measurements are reliable. It is important for healthcare practice to acknowledge ethnic-specific risk and these additional measurements can provide important information to examine population-level risk in populations with large proportions of South Asian children.