bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Long‐term drivers and timing of accelerated vegetation changes in African biomes and their management implications
Authors: Adeleye Matthew Adesanya , Connor Simon Edward , Haberle Simon Graeme , Ivory Sarah , Adeonipekun Peter Adegbenga 
Published: May 2022

AbstractAimOwing to its diverse bioclimatic zones, long human history and intense anthropogenic impacts, Africa provides a model system for studying how global terrestrial ecosystems might respond to accelerated socio‐environmental stress. Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change and human impact, and insufficient baseline data hamper current environmental management efforts. Using palaeoecological data, we seek to identify the timing, pace and drivers of change in African biomes on a long‐term scale to inform current ecosystem management frameworks on the continent.LocationAfrica.Time period0–12 ka.Major taxa studiedAfrican biomes.MethodsSixty‐four pollen records across Africa and nearby sites were retrieved from multiple databases/sources and grouped into biomes. Turnover (quantified using the squared chord distance dissimilarity metric) and rarefaction analyses were conducted on pollen records in each biome group to reconstruct regional temporal vegetation turnover and richness. Reconstructed vegetation turnover and richness were compared with independent records of climate, fire and human activity to identify possible drivers of change.ResultsWe found that the most stable biomes were those with the greatest floristic richness. Southern Africa's mediterranean‐type (SAM) ecosystems were the most stable and northern Africa's mediterranean‐type (NAM) ecosystems were the most unstable (mainly owing to fire). Tropical savannas (TS) and SAM ecosystems expressed the most sensitivity to climatic shifts from ≥6 ka, whereas tropical forests (TF) were relatively stable before human activities intensified from c. 2 ka. Floristic richness also declined across the tropics from c. 2 ka.Main conclusionsOur analysis pinpoints NAM ecosystems as undergoing the fastest acceleration in turnover on the continent in response to fire, whereas TF and TS have been undergoing unprecedented changes in biodiversity in the last 2,000 years. We expect further changes in biodiversity where climate becomes warmer and drier and where human impacts are novel and rapid in comparison to long‐term baselines.
Circulating platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles correlate with night‐time blood pressure and vascular organ damage and may represent an integrative biomarker of vascular health
Authors: Lugo‐Gavidia Leslie Marisol , Carnagarin Revathy , Burger Dylan , Nolde Janis M. , Chan Justine , Robinson Sandi , Bosio Erika , Matthews Vance B. , Schlaich Markus P. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractElevated office blood pressure (BP) has previously been associated with increased levels of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs). The present study aimed to assess the relationship between levels of platelet derived EVs, ambulatory BP parameters, and pulse wave velocity as a marker of macrovascular organ damage. A total of 96 participants were included in the study. Platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles (pEVs) were evaluated by flow cytometry (CD41+/Annexin v+). BP evaluation included unobserved automated office BP and ambulatory BP monitoring. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured as a marker of macrovascular damage. pEVs correlated with nocturnal systolic BP (r = 0.31; p = .003) and nocturnal dipping (r = ‐0.29; p = .01) in univariable analysis. Multivariable regression models confirmed robustness of the association of EVs and nocturnal blood pressure (p = .02). In contrast, systolic office, 24h‐ and daytime‐BP did not show significant associations with pEVs. No correlations were found with diastolic BP. Circulating pEVs correlated with pulse wave velocity (r = 0.25; p = .02). When comparing different hypertensive phenotypes, higher levels of EVs and PWV were evident in patients with sustained hypertension compared to patients with white coat HTN and healthy persons. Circulating platelet derived EVs were associated with nocturnal BP, dipping, and PWV. Given that average nocturnal BP is the strongest predictor of CV events, platelet derived EVs may serve as an integrative marker of vascular health, a proposition that requires testing in prospective clinical trials.
Inhibition of PKC‐δ reduce rhabdomyolysis‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Wu Dengke , Pan Jian , Zhang Dongshan 
Published: May 2022

AbstractDespite extensive research, the mechanisms underlying rhabdomyolysis‐induced acute kidney injury (AKI) remain largely elusive. In this study, we established both cell and murine models of rhabdomyolysis‐induced AKI by using myoglobin and glycerin, respectively, and provided evidence that protein kinase Cδ (PKC‐δ) was activated in both models and subsequently promoted cell apoptosis. Moreover, we found that this detrimental effect of PKC‐δ activation can be reversed by its pharmaceutical inhibitor rottlerin. Furthermore, we detected and confirmed the existence of PKC‐δ‐mediated myoglobin‐induced cell apoptosis and the expression of TNF‐α and IL1‐β via regulation of the p38MAPK and ERK1/2 signalling pathways. In summary, our research revealed the role of PKC‐δ in renal cell apoptosis and suggests that PKC‐δ is a viable therapeutic target for rhabdomyolysis‐induced AKI.
IM156, a new AMPK activator, protects against polymicrobial sepsis
Authors: Kang Ji Hyeon , Lee Sung Kyun , Yun Nam Joo , Kim Ye Seon , Song Jason Jungsik , Bae Yoe‐Sik 
Published: May 2022

AbstractIM156, a novel biguanide with higher potency of AMP‐activated protein kinase activation than metformin, has inhibitory activity against angiogenesis and cancer. In this study, we investigated effects of IM156 against polymicrobial sepsis. Administration of IM156 significantly increased survival rate against caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)‐induced sepsis. Mechanistically, IM156 markedly reduced viable bacterial burden in the peritoneal fluid and peripheral blood and attenuated organ damage in a CLP‐induced sepsis model. IM156 also inhibited the apoptosis of splenocytes and the production of inflammatory cytokines including IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐10 in CLP mice. Moreover, IM156 strongly inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species and subsequent formation of neutrophil extracellular traps in response to lipopolysaccharide in neutrophils. Taken together, these results show that IM156 can inhibit inflammatory response and protect against polymicrobial sepsis, suggesting that IM156 might be a new treatment for sepsis.
Tissue diagnosis necessary for small endoscopic ultrasound‐suspected gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors 2 cm or less in size: A prospective study focusing on the endoscopic incisional biopsy
Authors: Wong Shenq‐Jie , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Shun Chia‐Tung , Chen Chien‐Chuan , Han Ming‐Lun , Chen Jiann‐Hwa , Huang Chung‐Tsui , Cheng Tsu‐Yao 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackground and AimThe small endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐suspected gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), gastric subepithelial tumors at the muscularis propria layer on EUS, are detected frequently. Bite‐on‐bite forceps biopsy and EUS‐guided tissue sampling yield variable results. This study aimed to analyze clinicopathologic features of the small EUS‐suspected gastric GISTs 2 cm or less in size and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the endoscopic incisional biopsy (EIB) for these small tumors.MethodsThis prospective study investigated 70 patients with small EUS‐suspected gastric GISTs 2 cm or less in size in two stages. Firstly, 30 patients were recruited for the efficacy and safety evaluation of the EIB. Secondly, 40 patients were randomly assigned to receive either EIB or the bite‐on‐bite biopsy for comparison of the diagnostic yield, procedure time, and adverse event rate.ResultsCombining two study stages, leiomyoma (74%) was diagnosed histologically to outnumber GIST (26%) with a diagnostic rate of 94% for patients receiving EIB. KIT exon 11 mutations (50%) and PDGFRA exon 12 mutations (16%) were detected in the small gastric GISTs. In the direct comparison, the diagnostic yield of EIB and the bite‐on‐bite biopsy was 85% and 50%, respectively (P = 0.018). There was no statistically significant difference of the mean procedure time or adverse event rate between these two groups.ConclusionsLeiomyoma is more common than expected among these small tumors. Tissue diagnosis with an effective and safe sampling technique, such as EIB, is necessary for making further clinical decisions.
A longitudinal study of perinatal depression and the risk role of cognitive fusion and perceived stress on postpartum depression
Authors: Liu Wenting , Wu Xiaxin , Gao Yuanmin , Xiao Chaoqun , Xiao Julan , Fang Fan , Chen Yu 
Published: May 2022

AbstractAims and ObjectivesTo explore fluctuations in perinatal depression based on physiological, psychological and interpersonal dimensions to analyse risk factors across three time points: in the third trimester and at weeks 1 and 6 postpartum.BackgroundPregnant women experience depression at multiple time points and require screening. Studies have shown protective and negative factors related to postpartum depression. Cognitive fusion refers to an individual's emotions and behaviours that are regulated and influenced by that individual's own cognitive overregulation, especially when facing stress. This is an important psychological factor related to depression, but little is known about it in pregnant women.DesignA longitudinal study was conducted from June 2019–July 2020, and the findings are reported following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.MethodsPregnant women (n = 207) were recruited, and a questionnaire survey was performed at 32–34 weeks of pregnancy and at weeks 1 and 6 postpartum. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance was performed to analyse the changes in depression over time. Regression analysis and linear mixed modelling were used to identify risk factors. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to analyse the relationships between variables.ResultsOf the pregnant women, 36.70% experienced antenatal depression and prolonged depression with the onset of postpartum depression (12.21%). Some depressive moods disappeared spontaneously after delivery (47.37%). Perceived stress was the highest risk predictor of postpartum depression (β = 0.332), followed by cognitive fusion (β = 0.178), which remained stable over time and might have been positively related to having a vulnerable personality (0.2 < r < 0.4). Social support plays a positive role in lowering postpartum depression (β = −0.027).ConclusionsChanges in depression were influenced by multiple factors with stability and predictability across time. Psychological dimensions, such as perceived stress and cognitive fusion, are risk factors for developing postpartum depression and antenatal depression.Relevance to clinical practicePregnant women can be divided into depressive cohorts according to screening at different time points to provide targeted interventions.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐3 and ‐10 is up‐regulated in the periodontal tissues of aged mice
Authors: Kageyama Yoko , Nakamura Megumi , Igari Yohei , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Oguchi Akiko , Murakawa Yasuhiro , Hattori Yoshinori , Sasano Yasuyuki 
Published: May 2022

AbstractObjectiveThe present study was designed to investigate the whole transcriptome of periodontal tissues of both young and aged mice to identify the characteristic up‐regulation of protease genes with aging and to localize their translated protein products in the periodontal tissues.BackgroundThe metzincin protease superfamily is composed of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a disintegrin and metalloproteinases, and a disintegrin and metalloproteinases with thrombospondin motifs. Up‐regulation of these extracellular matrix‐degrading proteases has been implicated in senescence of tissues and organs, including the skin. However, few studies have investigated the expression profiles of these proteases and potential involvement in aging of periodontal tissues.MethodsPeriodontal tissues with the surrounding mandibular bones were collected from 50‐ and 10‐week‐old mice. Total RNA was extracted from the periodontal tissue and analyzed by cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) to identify differentially expressed genes encoding the metzincin proteases. Furthermore, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was performed to validate the CAGE results, and the phenotypic expression of proteases involved in aging was localized via immunohistochemical analysis.ResultsThe CAGE results showed that the expression levels of MMP‐3, ‐10, and ‐12 were up‐regulated at 50 weeks. Subsequent qRT‐PCR analysis showed that the gene expression levels of MMP‐3 and ‐10 were significantly increased with age. MMP‐10 immunoreactivity was localized exclusively in the cementum and alveolar bone adjacent to the periodontal ligament and was stronger and broader in aged mice than young mice. MMP‐3 immunoreactivity was localized in the periodontal ligaments at both 10 and 50 weeks.ConclusionIn the present study, we demonstrated that the expression of MMP‐3 and ‐10 increased with aging and identified their characteristic localizations in aged periodontal tissues.
Pathogenic variants of Valosin‐containing protein induce lysosomal damage and transcriptional activation of autophagy regulators in neuronal cells
Authors: Ferrari Veronica , Cristofani Riccardo , Cicardi Maria E. , Tedesco Barbara , Crippa Valeria , Chierichetti Marta , Casarotto Elena , Cozzi Marta , Mina Francesco , Galbiati Mariarita , Piccolella Margherita , Carra Serena , Vaccari Thomas , Nalbandian Angele , Kimonis Virginia , Fortuna Tyler R. , Pandey Udai B. , Gagliani Maria C. , Cortese Katia , Rusmini Paola , Poletti Angelo 
Published: May 2022

AbstractAimMutations in the valosin‐containing protein (VCP) gene cause various lethal proteinopathies that mainly include inclusion body myopathy with Paget's disease of bone and frontotemporal dementia (IBMPFD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Different pathological mechanisms have been proposed. Here, we define the impact of VCP mutants on lysosomes and how cellular homeostasis is restored by inducing autophagy in the presence of lysosomal damage.MethodsBy electron microscopy, we studied lysosomal morphology in VCP animal and motoneuronal models. With the use of western blotting, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), immunofluorescence and filter trap assay, we evaluated the effect of selected VCP mutants in neuronal cells on lysosome size and activity, lysosomal membrane permeabilization and their impact on autophagy.ResultsWe found that VCP mutants induce the formation of aberrant multilamellar organelles in VCP animal and cell models similar to those found in patients with VCP mutations or with lysosomal storage disorders. In neuronal cells, we found altered lysosomal activity characterised by membrane permeabilization with galectin‐3 redistribution and activation of PPP3CB. This selectively activated the autophagy/lysosomal transcriptional regulator TFE3, but not TFEB, and enhanced both SQSTM1/p62 and lipidated MAP1LC3B levels inducing autophagy. Moreover, we found that wild type VCP, but not the mutants, counteracted lysosomal damage induced either by trehalose or by a mutant form of SOD1 (G93A), also blocking the formation of its insoluble intracellular aggregates. Thus, chronic activation of autophagy might fuel the formation of multilamellar bodies.ConclusionTogether, our findings provide insights into the pathogenesis of VCP‐related diseases, by proposing a novel mechanism of multilamellar body formation induced by VCP mutants that involves lysosomal damage and induction of lysophagy.
Adenosine, adenosine‐ deaminase and implantable recorder outcome in syncopal patients
Authors: Mitro Peter , Lazúrová Zora , Kerekanič Michal , Farkaš Jan , Popovňáková Marcela 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundAdenosine test was proposed as a tool for identification of syncopal patients who benefit from pacemaker implantation. Aim of the study was to assess the relationship between adenosine levels, the outcome of adenosine test and results of implantable loop recorder (ILR) monitoring in patients with syncope.MethodsIn 29 patients (mean age 59 ± 11 years, 15 men, 14 women) with unexplained syncope ILR was implanted. In addition, adenosine test (intravenous injection of 20 mg adenosine bolus) and assays of plasmatic adenosine and adenosine‐deaminase were performed.ResultsAdenosine test was positive in 15 patients and negative in 14 patients. Patients with positive adenosine test had lower adenosine levels compared to patients with negative test (8.86 ± 2.07 ng/ml vs. 15.18 ± 2.14 ng/ml, p = .04). No difference was observed in adenosine deaminase levels (16.35 ± 2.20 IU/l vs. 13.20 ± 2.48 IU/l, p = .40). There was a negative correlation between adenosine level and AVB duration during adenosine test (p = .04; R2 = 0.22). Patients with positive adenosine test had more frequent asystole during ILR monitoring than patients with negative test (9 pts vs. 1 pt, p = .005). Adenosine levels were lower in patients with asystolic syncope on ILR compared to vasodepressor syncope 8.20 ± 2.86 ng/ml versus 13.27 ± 7.26 ng/ml, p = .05).ConclusionsPatients with positive adenosine test have decreased production of endogenous adenosine compared to patients with negative adenosine test. Positivity of adenosine test and low adenosine level in the peripheral blood were associated with more frequent asystolic episodes during ILR monitoring.
Feeding habits of the Middle Triassic pseudosuchian Batrachotomus kupferzellensis from Germany and palaeoecological implications for archosaurs
Authors: Mujal Eudald , Foth Christian , Maxwell Erin E. , Seegis Dieter , Schoch Rainer R. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBite traces on fossil bones are key to deciphering feeding ecology and trophic interactions of vertebrate past ecosystems. However, similarities between traces produced by different carnivorous taxa with similar dentitions, and misidentifications due to equifinality, hinder confident identifications of the bite makers. Here, we correlate bite traces with macroscopic wear and microanatomy of the teeth of the pseudosuchian archosaur Batrachotomus kupferzellensis from the Triassic Lower Keuper fossil lagerstätten (southern Germany), untangling its feeding habits and shedding light on the bite traces generated by ziphodont teeth (teeth with serrated carinae). Individually, bite traces reflect tooth morphology, whereas composite bite traces and their frequency are related to feeding behaviour and explain tooth macroscopic wear and microanatomy. Therefore the identification of the bite maker is possible by analysing composite bite traces, their location on bones, and their relative abundance. In addition, tooth macroscopic wear and microanatomy are proven as independent lines of evidence of feeding ecology. Comparing bite traces on fossil and present‐day bone assemblages, we observe that bone modifications by the crocodylomorph lineage (from Triassic pseudosuchian archosaurs to extinct and extant crocodylians) are strikingly similar, including taxa with and without ziphodont teeth. Such a set of features differs from bone modification assemblages produced by taxa with similar ziphodont teeth outside the pseudosuchian lineage, such as theropod dinosaurs and the Komodo monitor, suggesting phylogeny is a better predictor of feeding ecology among saurian reptiles than tooth morphology.
Function deficiency of GhOMT1 causes anthocyanidins over‐accumulation and diversifies fibre colours in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: Ke Liping , Yu Dongliang , Zheng Hongli , Xu Yihan , Wu Yuqing , Jiao Junye , Wang Xiaoli , Mei Jun , Cai Fangfang , Zhao Yanyan , Sun Jie , Zhang Xianlong , Sun Yuqiang 
Published: May 2022

SummaryNaturally coloured cotton (NCC) fibres need little or no dyeing process in textile industry to low‐carbon emission and are environment‐friendly. Proanthocyanidins (PAs) and their derivatives were considered as the main components causing fibre coloration and made NCCs very popular and healthy, but the monotonous fibre colours greatly limit the wide application of NCCs. Here a G. hirsutum empurpled mutant (HS2) caused by T‐DNA insertion is found to enhance the anthocyanidins biosynthesis and accumulate anthocyanidins in the whole plant. HPLC and LC/MS‐ESI analysis confirmed the anthocyanidins methylation and peonidin, petunidin and malvidin formation are blocked. The deficiency of GhOMT1 in HS2 was associated with the activation of the anthocyanidin biosynthesis and the altered components of anthocyanidins. The transcripts of key genes in anthocyanidin biosynthesis pathway are significantly up‐regulated in HS2, while transcripts of the genes for transport and decoration were at similar levels as in WT. To investigate the potential mechanism of GhOMT1 deficiency in cotton fibre coloration, HS2 mutant was crossed with NCCs. Surprisingly, offsprings of HS2 and NCCs enhanced PAs biosynthesis and increased PAs levels in their fibres from the accumulated anthocyanidins through up‐regulated GhANR and GhLAR. As expected, multiple novel lines with improved fibre colours including orange red and navy blue were produced in their generations. Based on this work, a new strategy for breeding diversified NCCs was brought out by promoting PA biosynthesis. This work will help shed light on mechanisms of PA biosynthesis and bring out potential molecular breeding strategy to increase PA levels in NCCs.
What are parents reading about the sunscreen controversy?
Authors: Shiosaki Jessica , Yamamoto Loren G. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractThe benefits of sunscreen use have been well‐established. However, discussion of its risks remains on the internet. Given this point of controversy, a web search of 50 websites on children's sun safety was performed and indicated that the information online is variable and incomplete when informing parents on the benefits and risks of sunscreen use.