bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desmopressin in haemophilia: The need for a standardised clinical response and individualised test regimen
Authors: Stoof S. C. M. , Schütte L. M. , Leebeek F. W. G. , Cnossen M. H. , Kruip M. J. H. A.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Due to interindividual variation in desmopressin response, non‐severe haemophilia A patients require desmopressin testing prior to therapeutic treatment. However, adequate response or frequency of blood sampling is not standardised in international guidelines. Consequently, various definitions and blood sampling protocols are currently applied. Interestingly, sustainability of desmopressin response is not incorporated into these definitions.

Aim

To study desmopressin response rates in a cohort of non‐severe haemophilia A patients using currently accepted desmopressin response definitions. This, in order to formulate a standardised, uniform response which includes information on sustainability and to design a standardised blood sampling protocol.

Methods

Currently used desmopressin responses in non‐severe haemophilia A patients were derived from a literature search. Actual desmopressin response rates were individualised in 105 non‐severe HA patients from the Erasmus University Medical Centre and classified according to current varying definitions.

Results

Five response definitions were evaluated, three of which included only factor VIII (FVIII):C cut‐off levels and two also incorporated FVIII:C‐fold increase over baseline. FVIII:C‐fold increase showed no association with desmopressin response sustainability. FVIII:C 1 hour after infusion (<0.30, ≥0.30‐0.49, ≥0.50‐0.79 and ≥0.80 IU/mL) was, however, indicative of desmopressin response after 6 hours.

Conclusion

We suggest standardised desmopressin response based on clinically relevant FVIII:C levels, e.g. 0.30 and 0.50 IU/mL. In addition, patients with <0.30 IU/mL FVIII:C after 1 hour (non‐responder) or ≥0.80 IU/mL (sustained responder) do not require subsequent blood sampling. However, patients with ≥0.30‐0.79 IU/mL FVIII:C after 1 hour should undergo blood sampling after 6 hours to additionally determine response sustainability.
Understanding the influences and impact of patient‐clinician communication in cancer care
Authors: Lafata Jennifer Elston , Shay Laura A. , Winship Jodi M.
Published: June 2017

Background

Patient‐clinician communication is thought to be central to care outcomes, but when and how communication affects patient outcomes is not well understood.

Objective

We propose a conceptual model and classification framework upon which the empirical evidence base for the impact of patient‐clinician communication can be summarized and further built.

Design

We use the proposed model and framework to summarize findings from two recent systematic reviews, one evaluating the use of shared decision making (SDM) on cancer care outcomes and the other evaluating the role of physician recommendation in cancer screening use.

Key results

Using this approach, we identified clusters of studies with positive findings, including those relying on the measurement of SDM from the patients’ perspective and affective‐cognitive outcomes, particularly in the context of surgical treatment decision making. We also identify important gaps in the literature, including the role of SDM in post‐surgical treatment and end‐of‐life care decisions, and those specifying particular physician communication strategies when recommending cancer screening.

Conclusions

Transparent linkages between key conceptual domains and the influence of methodological approaches on observed patient outcomes are needed to advance our understanding of how and when patient‐clinician communication influences patient outcomes. The proposed conceptual model and classification framework can be used to facilitate the translation of empirical evidence into practice and to identify critical gaps in knowledge regarding how and when patient‐clinician communication impacts care outcomes in the context of cancer and health care more broadly.
A new system for classifying accessory canal morphology
Authors: Ahmed H. M. A. , Neelakantan P. , Dummer P. M. H.
Published: June 2017

Thorough knowledge of anatomical complexities of the root canal system has a direct impact on the effectiveness of canal preparation and filling, and is an essential prerequisite for successful root canal treatment. A wide range of complex variations in root canal anatomy exists, including root canal configuration type, developmental anomalies and minor canal morphology such as accessory canals and apical deltas. Accessory canals and apical deltas have been associated with pulp disease, primary canal infection, canal reinfection and post‐treatment disease. The current definitions of accessory canal anatomy are not standardized and potentially confusing. Given their role in endodontic disease and their impact on treatment outcomes, there is a need to have a simple classification of their anatomy to provide an accurate description of their position and path from the canal to the external surface of the root. The purpose of this article is to introduce a new system for classifying accessory canal morphology for use in research, clinical practice and training.
Targeting risk factors for type 2 diabetes in American Indian youth: the Tribal Turning Point pilot study
Authors: Sauder K. A. , Dabelea D. , Bailey‐Callahan R. , Kanott Lambert S. , Powell J. , James R. , Percy C. , Jenks B. F. , Testaverde L. , Thomas J. M. , Barber R. , Smiley J. , Hockett C. W. , Zhong V. W. , Letourneau L. , Moore K. , Delamater A. M. , Mayer‐Davis E.
Published: June 2017

Background

American Indian (AI) youth are at high risk for type 2 diabetes.

Objectives

To partner with Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and Navajo Nation to develop a culturally sensitive behavioural intervention for youth (Tribal Turning Point; TTP) and assess feasibility in an 8‐month randomized pilot study.

Methods

We enrolled 62 overweight/obese AI children (7–10 years) who participated with ≥1 parent/primary caregiver. Intervention participants (n = 29) attended 12 group classes and five individual sessions. Control participants (n = 33) attended three health and safety group sessions. We analysed group differences for changes in anthropometrics (BMI, BMI z‐score, waist circumference), cardiometabolic (insulin, glucose, blood pressure) and behavioural (physical activity and dietary self‐efficacy) outcomes.

Results

Study retention was 97%, and intervention group attendance averaged 84%. We observed significant treatment effects (p = 0.02) for BMI and BMI z‐score: BMI increased in control (+1.0 kg m−2, p < 0.001) but not intervention participants (+0.3 kg m−2, p = 0.13); BMI z‐score decreased in intervention (−0.17, p = 0.004) but not control participants (0.01, p = 0.82). There were no treatment effects for cardiometabolic or behavioural outcomes.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that a behavioural intervention is feasible to deliver and improved obesity measures in AI youth. Future work should evaluate TTP for effectiveness, sustainability and long‐term impact in expanded tribal settings.
Molecular cloning, mRNA expression and biological activity of the pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (PBAN) from the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis
Authors: Fodor J. , Köblös G. , Kákai Á. , Kárpáti Z. , Molnár B. P. , Dankó T. , Bozsik G. , Bognár C. , Szőcs G. , Fónagy A.
Published: June 2017

Pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (PBAN) is a member of the pyrokinin (FXPRLamide) insect neuropeptides. Here, we report the cloning of the gene Ostnu‐PBAN from the E and Z pheromone strains of the European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), a major pest of maize. The Ostnu‐PBAN genomic sequence is > 5 kb in length and consists of six exons. The deduced amino acid sequence revealed a 200‐residue precursor protein including a signal peptide, a 24‐amino acid (aa) diapause hormone, a 37‐aa PBAN and three other FXPRLamide neuropeptides. Our in vivo assays suggest that the 37‐aa synthetic Ostnu‐PBAN is hormonally active in the pheromone gland. It restores sex pheromone production to normal levels in mated females and decapitated virgins of both E and Z cultures. The results of a real‐time PCR analysis indicated that Ostnu‐PBAN mRNA levels reached a plateau in the brain‐suboesophageal ganglion complexes 1 day after eclosion, and mating did not affect the mRNA expression. Three size classes of Ostnu‐PBAN mRNA (1.9, 2.0 and 2.1 kb) were obtained, differing only in the length of the 3′ untranslated region. However, there was no correlation between sequence divergence and the pheromone composition, voltinism or geographical origin (Hungary, Slovenia, Sweden, Turkey) of ECB moths.
Characterisation of clonal Philadelphia‐negative cytogenetic abnormalities in a large cohort of chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Chen Xiangjun , Zheng Jine , Liang Kaiwei , He Yanli , Du Wen , Li Juan , Liu Wei , Hu Yanjie , Huang Shiang , Yao Junxia
Published: June 2017

Background

Clonal Philadelphia (Ph)‐negative cytogenetic abnormalities (CPCA) have been reported in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients treated with either interferon or tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). However, the incidences and types of these cytogenetic abnormalities after treatment vary due to the limited populations enroled.

Methods

We analysed the frequency and types of CPCA in a cohort of 607 CML patients in the chronic phase after TKI treatment. We also followed up these CPCA with a median of 31.8 months (range from 11 to 63 months) from diagnosis and investigated their effects on disease progression.

Results

We found 18 out of 607 CML patients had cytogenetic abnormality in the Ph‐negative cells with an incidence of 3%. In total, six types of chromosomal abnormalities have been identified in these 18 patients with the majority of them aneuploidy abnormalities, especially the trisomy 8. Four of 18 patients (22.2%) were noted to have several abnormalities in the Ph‐negative cells. Furthermore, follow‐up studies of these CPCA showed that they could be either persistent or transient (15 vs 3 patients), and may not affect disease progression since none of them developed transformed myelodysplasia or transformed acute myeloid leukaemia.

Conclusion

Three percent of CML patients in the chronic phase were observed to have CPCA during TKI treatment. Our results suggest that the detection of CPCA in CML may not predict disease progression.
A low sintering temperature glass based on SiO2–P2O5–ZnO–B2O3–R2O system for white LEDs with high color rendering index
Authors: Kim Seonghyeon , Park Hyun‐A , Im Won Bin , Heo Jong , Choi Jae‐Young , Chung Woon Jin
Published: June 2017

A low sintering temperature glass based on the SiO2–P2O5–ZnO–B2O3–R2O (R=K and Na) system was studied as a matrix for embedding phosphors to fabricate color tunable white LEDs. The proposed system, which uses no heavy‐metal elements and can be sintered at 500°C, incorporates thermally weak commercial phosphors such as CaAlSiN3:Eu2+ to produce phosphor‐in‐glasses (PiGs). Changing the mixing ratio of glass to phosphors affected the photo‐luminescence spectra and color coordinates of the PiGs when mounted on a blue LED. The color rendering index (CRI) and color correlated temperature (CCT) of the LEDs were also varied with the mixing ratio, providing color tunable white LEDs. A high CRI, up to 93, as well as highly improved thermal stability were obtained, along with a low sintering temperature compared to other glass systems, suggesting the practical feasibility of the proposed system.
Early warning systems and rapid response to the deteriorating patient in hospital: A realist evaluation
Authors: McGaughey Jennifer , O'Halloran Peter , Porter Sam , Trinder John , Blackwood Bronagh
Published: June 2017

Aim

To test the Rapid Response Systems programme theory against actual practice components of the Rapid Response Systems implemented to identify those contexts and mechanisms which have an impact on the successful achievement of desired outcomes in practice.

Background

Rapid Response Systems allow deteriorating patients to be recognized using Early Warning Systems, referred early via escalation protocols and managed at the bedside by competent staff.

Design

Realist evaluation.

Methods

The research design was an embedded multiple case study approach of four wards in two hospitals in Northern Ireland which followed the principles of Realist Evaluation. We used various mixed methods including individual and focus group interviews, observation of nursing practice between June–November 2010 and document analysis of Early Warning Systems audit data between May–October 2010 and hospital acute care training records over 4.5 years from 2003–2008. Data were analysed using NiVivo8 andSPPS.

Results

A cross‐case analysis highlighted similar patterns of factors which enabled or constrained successful recognition, referral and response to deteriorating patients in practice. Key enabling factors were the use of clinical judgement by experienced nurses and the empowerment of nurses as a result of organizational change associated with implementation of Early Warning System protocols. Key constraining factors were low staffing and inappropriate skill mix levels, rigid implementation of protocols and culturally embedded suboptimal communication processes.

Conclusion

Successful implementation of Rapid Response Systems was dependent on adopting organizational and cultural changes that facilitated staff empowerment, flexible implementation of protocols and ongoing experiential learning.
Dietary glycaemic index and glycaemic load and upper gastrointestinal disorders: results from the SEPAHAN study
Authors: Keshteli A.H. , Haghighatdoost F. , Azadbakht L. , Daghaghzadeh H. , Feinle‐Bisset C. , Afshar H. , Feizi A. , Esmaillzadeh A. , Adibi P.
Published: June 2017

Background

Little is known about the effects of carbohydrate, particularly any association between dietary glycaemic index or glycaemic load and uninvestigated heartburn or uninvestigated chronic dyspepsia in the community. The present study aimed to determine associations between dietary glycaemic index or glycaemic load and uninvestigated heartburn or uninvestigated chronic dyspepsia.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in 2987 adults. Dietary glycaemic index and glycaemic load were estimated using a validated food‐frequency questionnaire. Uninvestigated heartburn and uninvestigated chronic dyspepsia were determined using a modified and validated version of the Rome III questionnaire.

Results

After controlling for various confounders, high glycaemic load was associated with an increased risk of uninvestigated heartburn [odds ration (OR) = 1.75; 95% confidence interval CI = 1.03, 2.97; P = 0.04] and uninvestigated chronic dyspepsia (OR = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.04, 4.37; P = 0.04) in men but not in women. In normal‐weight individuals, high glycaemic index was related to an increased risk of uninvestigated heartburn (OR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.07, 2.15; P = 0.02) and high glycaemic load to an increased risk of uninvestigated chronic dyspepsia (OR=1.78; 95% CI: 1.05, 3.01; P = 0.03). No significant associations were observed in subjects with excess body weight.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that there are body mass index‐ and sex‐specific associations between dietary carbohydrate quality with uninvestigated heartburn and uninvestigated chronic dyspepsia.
Cardiovascular risk score is linked to subcutaneous adipocyte size and lipid metabolism
Authors: Rydén M. , Arner P.
Published: June 2017

Objective

Although white adipose tissue mass and distribution correlates with cardiovascular disease, the fat cell‐specific perturbations underlying this association are not known. We determined the relationship between adipocyte size and lipid metabolism with cardiovascular risk.

Design/Subjects

Adipocyte size as well as spontaneous (basal) and hormone‐stimulated effects on adipocyte lipid metabolism (lipolysis and lipogenesis) were investigated in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue of 304 men and 775 women. Subjects were classified into five categories according to Adult Treatment Panel III (ATPIII) metabolic syndrome criteria.

Results

Adipocyte size increased with increasing ATPIII score (P < 0.0001). For lipolysis, there was a gradual increase in basal and catecholamine‐stimulated lipolysis and a decrease in insulin‐mediated inhibition of stimulated lipolysis with ATPIII (P < 0.0001). In contrast, the lipolytic action of atrial natriuretic peptide was similar between ATPIII classes. Basal and insulin‐stimulated lipogenesis decreased with increasing score (P < 0.0001). Circulating free fatty acid levels were 50% higher in the top risk category (4–5) compared with the lowest score (P < 0.0001). Fat cell size correlated positively with increasing ATPIII score and lipolysis but negatively with lipogenesis. All these differences were independent of age, sex and body weight status (P < 0.0001 to 0.02 after correction). When all functional measures were put together, maximum insulin‐stimulated lipogenesis, insulin‐antilipolytic sensitivity and basal lipolysis together explained about 20% in the variation of ATPIII in score.

Conclusions

Independently of sex, age and body weight status, a high cardiovascular risk score associates with increased circulating free fatty acid levels and hormone‐specific alterations of lipolysis/lipogenesis in enlarged subcutaneous fat cells.
The fourth Arab Impact Cratering and Astrogeology Conference (AICAC IV), April 9–12, 2017, Algiers (Algeria)
Authors: Belhaï D. , Chennaoui‐Aoudjehane H. , Baratoux D. , Ferrière L. , Lamali A. , Sahoui R. , Lambert P. , Ayadi A.
Published: June 2017

We present a report about the fourth Arab Impact Cratering and Astrogeology Conference (AICAC IV) that took place in Algiers at the USTHB (Université des Sciences et Technologie Houari Boumedienne, Algiers, Algeria) in the presence of the presidents of the USTHB and Boumerdès Universities, the Director of CRAAG (Centre de Recherche en Astronomie, Astrophysique et Géophysique), and the General Director of the National Administration for Scientific Research (NASR/DGRSDT). This series of conferences aims to promote research interest for impact cratering in the Arab world and beyond, including for instance in African countries. In spite of persistently restraining travel measures to Algeria, the fourth edition held in Algiers was marked by continuous international participation, with participants from seven different countries. This conference focused on presentations of scientific results in the research fields related to planetology, meteorites, and impact craters. In particular, the Algerian impact structures were under the spotlights during both oral and poster sessions. During this conference, the presence of freshly graduated Ph.D. students and new Ph.D. projects related to impact cratering or meteoritic science was a positive sign for the consolidation of research groups in this domain in the Arab world and Africa. Therefore, international cooperation or external support and funding are still needed to ensure the development of this scientific discipline in this part of the world.
Observation period for changes in proteinuria and risk prediction of end‐stage renal disease in general population
Authors: Usui Tomoko , Kanda Eiichiro , Iseki Chiho , Iseki Kunitoshi , Kashihara Naoki , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: June 2017

Aim

Proteinuria is known to be an independent risk factor of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). But the associations between changes in dipstick proteinuria and the risk of ESRD in the general population and its appropriate observation period to predict incident ESRD are unknown.

Methods

We assessed the changes in dipstick proteinuria in 69 021 participants aged ≥20 years who participated in health check‐ups from 1993 and more than once until 1996 in Okinawa, Japan. Development of ESRD until 2011 was identified using dialysis registry. Cox proportional hazards model and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used.

Results

At baseline, proteinuria (±) and ≥(1+) were observed in 2.4% and 1.2% of total subjects. 1.5% of subjects had decreased and 9.4% of subjects had increased their proteinuria level after 2 years. After adjustment for confounding factors, hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of ESRD for subjects with proteinuria change ≤ − 1, +1, +2, +3, and +4 level during 2 years compared to subjects with no change were 0.89 (0.43–1.87), 3.18 (2.21–4.60), 8.01 (5.55–11.55), 11.17 (6.59–19.95), and 16.59 (5.95–46.25), respectively. Heterogeneity existed between changes in proteinuria level during 1 or 3 years and the risk of ESRD among baseline proteinuria. Area under the ROC curve (95%CI) to predict ESRD by increase in proteinuria level during 1, 2, and 3 years were 0.650 (0.623–0.679), 0.779 (0.751–0.808), and 0.778 (0.748–0.808), respectively.

Conclusions

The changes in dipstick proteinuria were an independent predictor of ESRD in the general population. Changes in proteinuria over 2 years may be appropriate for the risk prediction of ESRD.
Cell size and wall dimensions drive distinct variability of earlywood and latewood density in Northern Hemisphere conifers
Authors: Björklund Jesper , Seftigen Kristina , Schweingruber Fritz , Fonti Patrick , von Arx Georg , Bryukhanova Marina V. , Cuny Henri E. , Carrer Marco , Castagneri Daniele , Frank David C.
Published: June 2017

Interannual variability of wood density – an important plant functional trait and environmental proxy – in conifers is poorly understood. We therefore explored the anatomical basis of density. We hypothesized that earlywood density is determined by tracheid size and latewood density by wall dimensions, reflecting their different functional tasks.

To determine general patterns of variability, density parameters from 27 species and 349 sites across the Northern Hemisphere were correlated to tree‐ring width parameters and local climate. We performed the same analyses with density and width derived from anatomical data comprising two species and eight sites. The contributions of tracheid size and wall dimensions to density were disentangled with sensitivity analyses.

Notably, correlations between density and width shifted from negative to positive moving from earlywood to latewood. Temperature responses of density varied intraseasonally in strength and sign. The sensitivity analyses revealed tracheid size as the main determinant of earlywood density, while wall dimensions become more influential for latewood density.

Our novel approach of integrating detailed anatomical data with large‐scale tree‐ring data allowed us to contribute to an improved understanding of interannual variations of conifer growth and to illustrate how conifers balance investments in the competing xylem functions of hydraulics and mechanical support.
Actin filament reorganisation controlled by the SCAR/WAVE complex mediates stomatal response to darkness
Authors: Isner Jean‐Charles , Xu Zaoxu , Costa Joaquim Miguel , Monnet Fabien , Batstone Thomas , Ou Xiaobin , Deeks Michael J. , Genty Bernard , Jiang Kun , Hetherington Alistair M.
Published: June 2017

Stomata respond to darkness by closing to prevent excessive water loss during the night. Although the reorganisation of actin filaments during stomatal closure is documented, the underlying mechanisms responsible for dark‐induced cytoskeletal arrangement remain largely unknown.

We used genetic, physiological and cell biological approaches to show that reorganisation of the actin cytoskeleton is required for dark‐induced stomatal closure.

The opal5 mutant does not close in response to darkness but exhibits wild‐type (WT) behaviour when exposed to abscisic acid (ABA) or CaCl2. The mutation was mapped to At5g18410, encoding the PIR/SRA1/KLK subunit of the ArabidopsisSCAR/WAVE complex. Stomata of an independent allele of the PIR gene (Atpir‐1) showed reduced sensitivity to darkness and F1 progenies of the cross between opal5 and Atpir‐1 displayed distorted leaf trichomes, suggesting that the two mutants are allelic. Darkness induced changes in the extent of actin filament bundling in WT. These were abolished in opal5. Disruption of filamentous actin using latrunculin B or cytochalasin D restored wild‐type stomatal sensitivity to darkness in opal5.

Our findings suggest that the stomatal response to darkness is mediated by reorganisation of guard cell actin filaments, a process that is finely tuned by the conserved SCAR/WAVE–Arp2/3 actin regulatory module.
Biases and Strategic Behaviour in Performance Evaluation: The Case of the FIFA's best soccer player award
Authors: Coupe Tom , Gergaud Olivier , Noury Abdul
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we study biases in performance evaluation by analysing votes for the FIFA Ballon d'Or award for best soccer player, the most prestigious award in the sport. Our findings suggest that ‘similarity’ biases are substantial, with jury members disproportionately voting for candidates from their own country, own national team, own continent and own league team. Further, we show that the impact of such biases on the total number of votes a candidate receives is fairly limited and hence is likely to affect the outcome of this competition only on rare occasions where the difference in quality between the leading candidates is small. Finally, analysing the incidence of ‘strategic voting’, we find jury members who vote for one leading candidate are more, rather than less, likely to also give points to his main competitor, as compared with neutral jury members. We discuss the implications of our findings for the design of awards, elections and performance evaluation systems in general and for the FIFA Ballon d'Or award in particular.
The effect of flaxseed supplementation on body weight and body composition: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of 45 randomized placebo‐controlled trials
Authors: Mohammadi‐Sartang M. , Mazloom Z. , Raeisi‐Dehkordi H. , Barati‐Boldaji R. , Bellissimo N. , Totosy de Zepetnek J. O.
Published: June 2017

Flaxseed consumption may be inversely associated with obesity; however, findings of available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are conflicting. The present study aimed to systematically review and analyse RCTs assessing the effects of flaxseed consumption on body weight and body composition. PubMed, Medline via Ovid, SCOPUS, EMBASE and ISI Web of Sciences databases were searched up to November 2016. Mean changes in body composition indices including body weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were extracted. Effect sizes were expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity between studies was assessed with the I2 test. Publication bias and subgroup analyses were also performed. The quality of articles was assessed via the Jadad scale. A total of 45 RCTs were included. Meta‐analyses suggested a significant reduction in body weight (WMD: −0.99 kg, 95% CI: −1.67, −0.31, p = 0.004), BMI (WMD: −0.30 kg m−2, 95% CI: −0.53, −0.08, p = 0.008) and waist circumference (WMD: −0.80 cm, 95% CI: −1.40, −0.20, p = 0.008) following flaxseed supplementation. Subgroup analyses showed that using whole flaxseed in doses ≥30 g d−1, longer‐term interventions (≥12 weeks) and studies including participants with higher BMI (≥ 27 kg m−2) had positive effects on body composition. Whole flaxseed is a good choice for weight management particularly for weight reduction in overweight and obese participants.
MaRAP2‐4, a waterlogging‐responsive ERF from Mentha, regulates bidirectional sugar transporter AtSWEET10 to modulate stress response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Phukan Ujjal J. , Jeena Gajendra Singh , Tripathi Vineeta , Shukla Rakesh Kumar
Published: June 2017

As waterlogging and successive events severely influence growth and development of economically important plants, we attempted to characterize the role of a waterlogging‐responsive group I (A‐6) ethylene response factor (MaRAP2‐4) from Mentha arvensis. Waterlogging, ethylene and methyl jasmonate rapidly induced the expression of MaRAP2‐4. MaRAP2‐4 interacted with multiple cis‐elements like dehydration response elements (DRE1/2), anoxia/jasmonic acid response element (JARE) and GCC box showing its involvement in multiple responses. MaRAP2‐4 localizes in the nucleus and acts as a transcriptional activator. Truncation and internal deletion identified a 20 amino acids potential transactivation domain (PLPSSVDAKLEAICQSLAIN) in MaRAP2‐4. MaRAP2‐4 transgenic Arabidopsis showed enhanced waterlogging and subsequent oxidative stress tolerance. Microarray analysis revealed that within up‐regulated genes 483, 212 and 132 promoters carry either single or multiple copies of DRE, JARE and GCC cis‐element/s, respectively. Within these promoters, a large section belongs to carbohydrate metabolism/transport, including many SWEET transporters. Further analysis showed MaRAP2‐4 specifically targets two positions in AtSWEEET10 promoter carrying DRE and/or GCC box that might regulate carbohydrate availability and waterlogging tolerance. These results demonstrate that MaRAP2‐4 is a positive regulator of waterlogging tolerance, and as energy‐consuming processes such as carbohydrate biosynthesis are reduced under waterlogging‐induced hypoxia, sugar transport through SWEETs may be the primary option to make sugar available to the required tissue.
Plasticity in gas‐exchange physiology of mature Scots pine and European larch drive short‐ and long‐term adjustments to changes in water availability
Authors: Feichtinger Linda M. , Siegwolf Rolf T.W. , Gessler Arthur , Buchmann Nina , Lévesque Mathieu , Rigling Andreas
Published: June 2017

Adjustment mechanisms of trees to changes in soil‐water availability over long periods are poorly understood, but crucial to improve estimates of forest development in a changing climate.

We compared mature trees of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and European larch (Larix decidua) growing along water‐permeable channels (irrigated) and under natural conditions (control) at three sites in inner‐Alpine dry valleys. At two sites, the irrigation had been stopped in the 1980s. We combined measurements of basal area increment (BAI), tree height and gas‐exchange physiology (Δ13C) for the period 1970–2009.

At one site, the Δ13C of irrigated pine trees was higher than that of the control in all years, while at the other sites, it differed in pine and larch only in years with dry climatic conditions. During the first decade after the sudden change in water availability, the BAI and Δ13C of originally irrigated pine and larch trees decreased instantly, but subsequently reached higher levels than those of the control by 2009 (15 years afterwards).

We found a high plasticity in the gas‐exchange physiology of pine and larch and site‐specific responses to changes in water availability. Our study highlights the ability of trees to adjust to new conditions, thus showing high resilience.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Down Syndrome: A Case Series
Authors: Hamadah Issam , Haider Mansoor , Chisti Muzamil , Binamer Yousef
Published: June 2017

Background/Objectives

Many dermatologic and systemic diseases have been reported in association with hidradenitis suppurativa, but its association with Down syndrome is rarely mentioned in the literature. The objective of the current study was to assess the frequency of hidradenitis suppurativa in patients with Down syndrome who visited our clinic over 4 years.

Methods

We recorded the presenting complaints and dermatologic problems of patients with Down syndrome who visited our clinic from January 2011 to December 2014. Medical photographs were taken. Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa were assessed according to severity and treated with topical and systemic medications.

Results

Twenty‐nine new patients with Down syndrome visited our clinic during this period. Eleven had hidradenitis suppurativa. Disease severity included Hurley stages I and II.

Conclusion

The presence of hidradenitis suppurativa in 38% of patients with Down syndrome is far higher than would be expected by chance alone.
Acclimation responses to high light by Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. (Malvaceae) leaves at different stages of development
Authors: Calzavara A. K. , Rocha J. S. , Lourenço G. , Sanada K. , Medri C. , Bianchini E. , Pimenta J. A. , Stolf‐Moreira R. , Oliveira H. C.
Published: June 2017

The re‐composition of deforested environments requires the prior acclimation of seedlings to full sun in nurseries. Seedlings can overcome excess light either through the acclimation of pre‐existing fully expanded leaves or through the development of new leaves that are acclimated to the new light environment. Here, we compared the acclimation capacity of mature (MatL, fully expanded at the time of transfer) and newly expanded (NewL, expanded after the light shift) leaves of Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. (Malvaceae) seedlings to high light.

The seedlings were initially grown under shade and then transferred to full sunlight. MatL and NewL were used for chlorophyll fluorescence and gas exchange analyses, pigment extraction and morpho‐anatomical measurements.

After the transfer of seedlings to full sun, the MatL persisted and acclimated to some extent to the new light condition, since they underwent alterations in some morpho‐physiological traits and maintained a functional electron transport chain and positive net photosynthesis rate. However, long‐term exposure to high light led to chronic photoinhibition in MatL, which could be related to the limited plasticity of leaf morpho‐anatomical attributes. However, the NewL showed a high capacity to use the absorbed energy in photochemistry and dissipate excess energy harmlessly, attributes that were favoured by the high structural plasticity exhibited by these leaves.

Both the maintenance of mature, photosynthetically active leaves and the production of new leaves with a high capacity to cope with excess energy were important for acclimation of G. ulmifolia seedlings.
Climate drives plant–pollinator interactions even along small‐scale climate gradients: the case of the Aegean
Authors: Petanidou T. , Kallimanis A. S. , Lazarina M. , Tscheulin T. , Devalez J. , Stefanaki A. , Hanlidou E. , Vujić A. , Kaloveloni A. , Sgardelis S. P.
Published: June 2017

Plant–pollinator network structure is the outcome of ecological and evolutionary processes, and although the importance of environmental factors is beyond doubt, our knowledge of how abiotic factors (e.g. climate) shape plant–pollinator networks remains limited. This knowledge gap is critical, as climate change poses a major threat to ecosystems, especially in the Mediterranean. This study focuses on one of the hottest parts of the Mediterranean Basin, the Aegean Archipelago, Greece, and examines how climate affects species richness and network properties (e.g. nestedness, modularity and specialisation) – either directly or indirectly through species richness.

We sampled systematically 39 local plant–pollinator networks on eight islands along a north–south climate gradient in the Aegean. All plant–pollinator material used in the analyses was collected in 2012 and identified to species level. Aspects of climate used in the models were expressed as average conditions (mean temperature and annual precipitation) or as seasonal variability (isothermality and temperature seasonality).

Structural properties of plant–pollinator networks were found to be strongly associated with species richness, which was in turn affected by climate, implying that pollination network structure is driven indirectly by climate. In addition, climate had a direct effect on network structure, especially on modularity and specialisation. Different aspects of climate affected network properties in different ways.

We highlight that even in a relatively narrow latitudinal gradient, such as within the Aegean Sea region, climate constitutes a significant driver of plant–pollinator interactions.
Uncovering the contribution of epigenetics to plant phenotypic variation in Mediterranean ecosystems
Authors: Balao F. , Paun O. , Alonso C.
Published: June 2017

Epigenetic signals can affect plant phenotype and fitness and be stably inherited across multiple generations. Epigenetic regulation plays a key role in the mechanisms of plant response to the environment, without altering DNA sequence. As plants cannot adapt behaviourally or migrate instantly, such dynamic epigenetic responses may be particularly crucial for survival of plants within changing and challenging environments, such as the Mediterranean‐Type Ecosystems (MTEs). These ecosystems suffer recurrent stressful events (warm and dry summers with associated fire regimes) that have selected for plants with similar phenotypic complex traits, resulting in similar vegetation growth forms. However, the potential role of epigenetics in plant adaptation to recurrent stressful environments such as the MTEs has generally been ignored. To understand the full spectrum of adaptive processes in such contexts, it is imperative to prompt study of the causes and consequences of epigenetic variation in natural populations. With this purpose, we review here current knowledge on epigenetic variation in natural populations and the genetic and epigenetic basis of some key traits for plants in the MTEs, namely those traits involved in adaptation to drought, fire and oligotrophic soils. We conclude there is still much to be learned about ‘plant epigenetics in the wild’ and, thus, we propose future research steps in the study of natural epigenetic variation of key traits in the MTEs at different scales.
Resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in wild Brassica species and the importance of Sclerotinia subarctica as a Brassica pathogen
Authors: Taylor A. , Rana K. , Handy C. , Clarkson J. P.
Published: June 2017

Brassica crops are of global importance, with oilseed rape (Brassica napus) accounting for 13% of edible oil production. All Brassica species are susceptible to sclerotinia stem rot caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, a generalist fungal pathogen causing disease in over 400 plant species. Generally, sources of plant resistance result in partial control of the pathogen although some studies have identified wild Brassica species that are highly resistant. The related pathogen S. subarctica has also been reported on Brassica but its aggressiveness in relation to S. sclerotiorum is unknown. In this study, detached leaf and petiole assays were used to identify new sources of resistance to S. sclerotiorum within a wild Brassica ‘C genome’ diversity set. High‐level resistance was observed in B. incana and B. cretica in petiole assays, whilst wild B. oleracea and B. incana lines were the most resistant in leaf assays. A B. bourgeai line showed both partial petiole and leaf resistance. Although there was no correlation between the two assays, resistance in the detached petiole assay was correlated with stem resistance in mature plants. When tested on commercial cultivars of B. napus, B. oleracea and B. rapa, selected isolates of S. subarctica exhibited aggressiveness comparable to S. sclerotiorum indicating it can be a significant pathogen of Brassica. This is the first study to identify B. cretica as a source of resistance to S. sclerotiorum and to report resistance in other wild Brassica species to a UK isolate, hence providing resources for breeding of resistant cultivars suitable for Europe.
Mixed Generalized Akaike Information Criterion for Small Area Models
Authors: Lombardía María José , López-Vizcaíno Esther , Rueda Cristina
Published: June 2017

A mixed generalized Akaike information criterion xGAIC is introduced and validated. It is derived from a quasi-log-likelihood that focuses on the random effect and the variability between the areas, and from a generalized degree-of-freedom measure, as a model complexity penalty, which is calculated by the bootstrap. To study the performance of xGAIC, we consider three popular mixed models in small area inference: a Fay–Herriot model, a monotone model and a penalized spline model. A simulation study shows the good performance of xGAIC. Besides, we show its relevance in practice, with two real applications: the estimation of employed people by economic activity and the prevalence of smokers in Galician counties. In the second case, where it is unclear which explanatory variables should be included in the model, the problem of selection between these explanatory variables is solved simultaneously with the problem of the specification of the functional form between the linear, monotone or spline options.
Evaluating the Accuracy of Small P‐Values In Genetic Association Studies Using Edgeworth Expansions
Authors: Zheng Gang , Xiong Jinghong , Li Qizhai , Xu Jinfeng , Yuan Ao , Gastwirth Joe L.
Published: June 2017

The asymptotic distributions of many classical test statistics are normal. The resulting approximations are often accurate for commonly used significance levels, 0.05 or 0.01. In genome‐wide association studies, however, the significance level can be as low as 1×10−7, and the accuracy of the p‐values can be challenging. We study the accuracies of these small p‐values are using two‐term Edgeworth expansions for three commonly used test statistics in GWAS. These tests have nuisance parameters not defined under the null hypothesis but estimable. We derive results for this general form of testing statistics using Edgeworth expansions, and find that the commonly used score test, maximin efficiency robust test and the chi‐squared test are second order accurate in the presence of the nuisance parameter, justifying the use of the p‐values obtained from these tests in the genome‐wide association studies.
Arabidopsis WRKY2 and WRKY34 transcription factors interact with VQ20 protein to modulate pollen development and function
Authors: Lei Rihua , Li Xiaoli , Ma Zhenbing , Lv Yan , Hu Yanru , Yu Diqiu
Published: June 2017

Plant male gametogenesis is tightly regulated, and involves complex and precise regulations of transcriptional reprogramming. WRKY transcription factors have been demonstrated to play critical roles in plant development and stress responses. Several members of this family physically interact with VQ motif‐containing proteins (VQ proteins) to mediate a plethora of programs in Arabidopsis; however, the involvement of WRKY–VQ complexes in plant male gametogenesis remains largely unknown. In this study, we found that WRKY2 and WKRY34 interact with VQ20 both in vitro and in vivo. Further experiments displayed that the conserved VQ motif of VQ20 is responsible for their physical interactions. The VQ20 protein localizes in the nucleus and specifically expresses in pollens. Phenotypic analysis showed that WRKY2, WRKY34 and VQ20 are crucial for pollen development and function. Mutations of WRKY2, WRKY34 and VQ20 simultaneously resulted in male sterility, with defects in pollen development, germination and tube growth. Further investigation revealed that VQ20 affects the transcriptional functions of its interacting WRKY partners. Complementation evidence supported that the VQ motif of VQ20 is essential for pollen development, as a mutant form of VQ20 in which LVQK residues in the VQ motif were replaced by EDLE did not rescue the phenotype of the w2‐1 w34‐1 vq20‐1 triple‐mutant plants. Further expression analysis indicated that WRKY2, WRKY34 and VQ20 co‐modulate multiple genes involved in pollen development, germination and tube growth. Taken together, our study provides evidence that VQ20 acts as a key partner of WRKY2 and WKRY34 in plant male gametogenesis.
Clinical features and outcomes in patients with thrombotic microangiopathy not associated with severe ADAMTS13 deficiency
Authors: Li Ang , Bendapudi Pavan K. , Uhl Lynne , Hamdan Ayad , Kaufman Richard M. , Makar Robert S.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

The a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 motifs, member 13 (ADAMTS13) activity assay has become important in distinguishing autoimmune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura from other forms of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Although the significance of severe deficiency in ADAMTS13 (activity levels 10% or less) has been well defined, little data are available on the clinical importance of mild to moderate deficiency (activity levels 11%‐70%) among patients with TMA.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study using the Harvard TMA Research Collaborative Registry. Among 254 patients who met the inclusion criteria for TMA, 186 patients with ADAMTS13 activity levels greater than 10% were divided into moderate‐deficiency (11%‐40%), mild‐deficiency (41%‐70%), and no‐deficiency (greater than 70%).

RESULTS

Compared with mild or no deficiency, moderate ADAMTS13 deficiency correlated with older age; higher bilirubin and international normalized ratio; and increased frequency of sepsis, shock, or multiorgan failure. Platelet counts, lactate dehydrogenase levels, and the presence of renal or neurologic dysfunction did not vary across the three patient cohorts. While moderate ADAMTS13 deficiency was associated with increased 90‐day mortality in univariate analysis, this association was no longer significant in multivariate analysis. Variables that independetly predicted 90‐day mortality in this cohort of patients included Charlson comorbidity index, alanine aminotransferase level, platelet count, creatinine, and the presence of sepsis, shock, or multiorgan failure.

CONCLUSION

Moderately deficient ADAMTS13 activity identifies a cohort of patients with TMA who are at increased risk for 90‐day mortality. The ADAMTS13 activity level in this group is not an independent predictor of poor outcomes but instead appears to be a marker of disease acuity.
Proteomic analysis of red blood cells from donors exhibiting high hemolysis demonstrates a reduction in membrane‐associated proteins involved in the oxidative response
Authors: Chen Deborah , Schubert Peter , Devine Dana V.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

The development of hemolysis during ex vivo hypothermic storage is multifaceted. Standardization of collection and production processes is used to minimize variability in biologics manufacturing and to maximize product quality. However, the influence of various donor characteristics on product quality is often difficult to evaluate and to control. Using a proteomic approach, we aimed to decipher relevant donor characteristics that may predict red blood cell (RBC) quality during storage.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Ten healthy volunteer donors exhibiting repeated high hemolysis at outdate (>0.8%; RBCHH) and 10 age‐ and sex‐matched control donors (RBCCtrl) were studied. Common quality variables were measured on Days 5, 14, 21, 28, and 42 of storage. Protein profiles of hemoglobin‐depleted membrane fractions from RBCHH and RBCCtrl donors were analyzed using a quantitative proteomics approach based on iTRAQ (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation).

RESULTS

Time‐dependent lesion development was apparent in both donor populations. RBCHH exhibited reduced 2,3‐bisphosphoglycerate levels (p < 0.001) and morphologic score (p < 0.001), but displayed elevated hemolysis level (p < 0.001), RBC‐derived microvesicle formation (p < 0.001), and mean corpuscular fragility (p < 0.001) compared to RBCCtrl, indicating notable differences at the membrane between the two donor populations. Proteomic findings revealed a significant reduction in the level of proteins involved in oxidative response pathways at early time points in RBCHH compared to that of RBCCtrl.

CONCLUSION

The recruitment of these candidate proteins might be part of a response mechanism altered in RBCHH donors and therefore may be useful as a donor screening tool.