bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ubiquitinated proteins promote the association of proteasomes with the deubiquitinating enzyme Usp14 and the ubiquitin ligase Ube3c
Authors: Kuo Chueh-Ling , Goldberg Alfred Lewis
Published: April 2017

Significance

The efficient degradation of ubiquitinated proteins by 26S proteasomes is critical in maintaining protein homeostasis. Although these particles contain many subunits and associated proteins, it was unclear if proteasome composition changes when rates of proteolysis vary. We studied the proteasome content of two enzymes important in regulating proteolysis: the deubiquitinating enzyme, Usp14, and the ubiquitin ligase, Ube3c. Experiments with cells and isolated proteasomes indicated that levels of Usp14 and Ube3c on these particles correlated with their content of ubiquitinated proteins. Addition of ubiquitin conjugates to extracts stimulated rapid association of both enzymes with the particles. Thus Usp14 and Ube3c continuously cycle on and off proteasomes, and the stimulation of their association by ubiquitin conjugates represents a new mechanism regulating proteasome function.
Immunochemical engineering of cell surfaces to generate virus resistance
Authors: Xie Jia , Sok Devin , Wu Nicholas C. , Zheng Tianqing , Zhang Wei , Burton Dennis R. , Lerner Richard A.
Published: April 2017

Significance

A method that renders cells resistant to virus infection is reported. The method is based on anchoring antibodies to cell surface virus receptors to the plasma membrane. Because of their effective molarity, the antibodies are much more effective than if they were free in the circulation. The antibodies interact with the receptors and block virus attachment. In infections with viruses such as HIV, cells rendered resistant to infection will be selected over infected cells, thereby opening the possibility of curing the infection.
Structure of a DNA glycosylase that unhooks interstrand cross-links
Authors: Mullins Elwood A. , Warren Garrett M. , Bradley Noah P. , Eichman Brandt F.
Published: April 2017

Significance

DNA glycosylases are important repair enzymes that safeguard the integrity of the genome by excising chemically damaged DNA bases from the phosphoribose backbone. Recently, these enzymes were found to repair DNA interstrand cross-links (ICLs). ICLs are highly toxic DNA lesions formed by various bifunctional metabolites, environmental toxins, and chemotherapeutic agents that block normal DNA metabolism. This work describes the crystal structure of a newly discovered bacterial DNA glycosylase that repairs ICLs formed by azinomycin B, a potent antimicrobial and antitumor agent. The protein belongs to a structural superfamily prevalent in pathogenic bacteria and may serve as an important therapeutic target.
PIF4-controlled auxin pathway contributes to hybrid vigor in
Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wang Li , Wu Li Min , Greaves Ian K. , Zhu Anyu , Dennis Elizabeth S. , Peacock W. James
Published: April 2017

Significance

Hybrids are of high value in agriculture. Hybrid vigor applies only to the F1 generation. Pure breeding lines, which maintain the hybrid phenotype, hybrid mimics, together with the small phenotype line have proven to be powerful in identifying genes and pathways critical for hybrid vigor. PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR (PIF4), regulating auxin biosynthesis and action, features in the development of the hybrid vigor phenotype. The homozygous hybrid mimic lines all have the same particular 12 chromosomal segments, 4 from the C24 parent and 8 from L
er
. The small phenotype line has each of these segments derived from the genome of the alternative parent, so one or more loci needed for the large hybrid mimic phenotype are likely to be on each segment.
Enhanced respiration prevents drug tolerance and drug resistance in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Vilchèze Catherine , Hartman Travis , Weinrick Brian , Jain Paras , Weisbrod Torin R. , Leung Lawrence W. , Freundlich Joel S. , Jacobs William R.
Published: April 2017

Significance

Tuberculosis (TB) patients would greatly benefit from shorter treatment options. The treatment of drug-susceptible TB, a disease caused by the bacillus
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, is a lengthy and strenuous process. This long therapy is because of the ability of a small population of cells to become drug-tolerant. Here, we demonstrate that the addition of small thiols to drug-treated
M. tuberculosis
prevents the emergence of drug-tolerant but also drug-resistant cells leading to sterilization of the cultures in vitro. The thiols potentiate drug activity by preventing the cells from entering a persister state and shutting down their metabolism while generating an oxidative burst. This dual mechanism of killing could lead to novel approaches to shorten TB chemotherapy.
Does the Lunar Cycle Affect Reef Fish Catch Rates?
Authors: Pulver J. R.
Published: April 2017

The lunar cycle was examined as a potential source of variation in CPUE for the most common commercial reef fish species captured in the Gulf of Mexico. Using fishery observer data for species captured with bottom longline and vertical line gear types, the analyses modeled CPUE with two different approaches: (1) a generalized additive model with cyclic splines to explain nonlinear variations with the 29.5-d lunar cycle; and (2) a generalized linear model using periodic regression with the sine and cosine functions to describe cyclic variations in CPUE. A lunar effect on catch rates was detected for Red Grouper Epinephelus morio and Tilefish Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps; however, no lunar effect was detected for Yellowedge Grouper Hyporthodus flavolimbatus, Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus, or Vermilion Snapper Rhomboplites aurorubens based on either method. The lunar effect in the bottom longline fishery differed between species, with increased CPUE consistently predicted to occur near the new moon for Red Grouper and to take place proximal to the full moon for Tilefish. Red Grouper captured with vertical line gear had two CPUE increases predicted around the waxing and waning lunar phases. Inconsistencies in lunar effect between gear types for Red Grouper were present, possibly due to different mechanisms affecting CPUE. Results suggest that lunar cycles influence catch rates for some of the reef fish species examined and should be considered as potential environmental covariates for standardizing nominal CPUE.

Received October 14, 2016; accepted February 2, 2017 Published online April 11, 2017
Pre‐game perceived wellness highly associates with match running performances during an international field hockey tournament
Authors: Ihsan Mohammed , Tan Frankie , Sahrom Sofyan , Choo Hui Cheng , Chia Michael , Aziz Abdul Rashid
Published: April 2017

This study examined the associations between pre‐game wellness and changes in match running performance normalised to either (i) playing time, (ii) post‐match RPE or (iii) both playing time and post‐match RPE, over the course of a field hockey tournament. Twelve male hockey players were equipped with global positioning system (GPS) units while competing in an international tournament (six matches over 9 days). The following GPS‐derived variables, total distance (TD), low‐intensity activity (LIA; <15 km/h), high‐intensity running (HIR; >15 km/h), high‐intensity accelerations (HIACC; >2 m/s2) and decelerations (HIDEC; >−2 m/s2) were acquired and normalised to either (i) playing time, (ii) post‐match RPE or (iii) both playing time and post‐match RPE. Each morning, players completed ratings on a 0–10 scale for four variables: fatigue, muscle soreness, mood state and sleep quality, with cumulative scores determined as wellness. Associations between match performances and wellness were analysed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Combined time and RPE normalisation demonstrated the largest associations with Δwellness compared with time or RPE alone for most variables; TD (r = −0.95; −1.00 to −0.82, p = .004), HIR (r = −0.95; −1.00 to −0.83, p = .003), LIA (r = −0.94; −1.00 to −0.81, p = .026), HIACC (r = −0.87; −1.00 to −0.66, p = .004) and HIDEC (r = −0.90; −0.99 to −0.74, p = .008). These findings support the use of wellness measures as a pre‐match tool to assist with managing internal load over the course of a field hockey tournament.

Highlights

Fixtures during international field hockey tournaments are typically congested and impose high physiological demands on an athlete. To minimise decrements in running performance over the course of a tournament, measures to identify players who have sustained high internal loads are logically warranted.

The present study examined the association between changes in simple customised psychometric wellness measures, on changes in match running performance normalised to (i) playing time, (ii) post‐match RPE and (iii) playing time and post‐match RPE, over the course of a field hockey tournament.

Changes in match running performance were better associated to changes in wellness (r = −0.87 to −0.95), when running performances were normalised to both time and RPE compared with time or RPE alone.

The present findings support the use of wellness measures as a pre‐match tool to assist with managing internal load over the course of a field hockey tournament. Improved associations between wellness scores and match running performances were evident, when running variables were normalised to both playing time and post‐match RPE.
The use and nature of grapheme coding during sub-lexical processing and lexical access
Authors: Commissaire Eva , Casalis Séverine
Published: April 2017

This work aimed to investigate grapheme coding during sub-lexical processing and lexical access. Using the letter detection task in Experiment 1, we compared letter pairs that could be considered as a grapheme unit or not depending on context (referred to as weakly cohesive complex, e.g., an in chant vs cane) to real two-letter graphemes (highly cohesive complex, e.g., au in chaud) and single-letter graphemes (simple, e.g., a in place). Three experimental conditions were used, one of which was designed to prevent phonological influences. Data revealed that only highly cohesive complex graphemes were processed as units, not the weakly cohesive ones. The same pattern was found across experimental conditions in favor of an orthographic mechanism. In Experiments 2 and 3, a primed lexical decision task was used with two stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs) and two different ranges of lexical frequency. We manipulated the number of graphemes removed from partial primes ( d**che vs do**he-DOUCHE) and relatedness. In contrast to Experiment 1, no evidence was provided in favor of a role of graphemes during lexical access. We suggest that graphemes can be conceived as sub-lexical orthographic units per se but can only be captured within a sub-lexical route to reading.
Ensemble coding of face identity is not independent of the coding of individual identity
Authors: Neumann Markus F , Ng Ryan , Rhodes Gillian , Palermo Romina
Published: April 2017

Information about a group of similar objects can be summarized into a compressed code, known as ensemble coding. Ensemble coding of simple stimuli (e.g., groups of circles) can occur in the absence of detailed exemplar coding, suggesting dissociable processes. Here, we investigate whether a dissociation would still be apparent when coding facial identity, where individual exemplar information is much more important. We examined whether ensemble coding can occur when exemplar coding is difficult, as a result of large sets or short viewing times, or whether the two types of coding are positively associated. We found a positive association, whereby both ensemble and exemplar coding were reduced for larger groups and shorter viewing times. There was no evidence for ensemble coding in the absence of exemplar coding. At longer presentation times, there was an unexpected dissociation, where exemplar coding increased yet ensemble coding decreased, suggesting that robust information about face identity might suppress ensemble coding. Thus, for face identity, we did not find the classic dissociation—of access to ensemble information in the absence of detailed exemplar information—that has been used to support claims of distinct mechanisms for ensemble and exemplar coding.
Explaining the isotope effect on heat transport in L-mode with the collisional electron-ion energy exchange
Authors: Schneider P.A. , Bustos A. , Hennequin P. , Ryter F. , Bernert M. , Cavedon M. , Dunne M.G. , Fischer R. , Görler T. , Happel T. , Igochine V. , Kurzan B. , Lebschy A. , McDermott R.M. , Morel P. , Willensdorfer M.
Published: April 2017

In ASDEX Upgrade (AUG), the normalised gyroradius

ρ

⋆

was varied via a hydrogen isotope scan while keeping other dimensionless parameters constant. This was done in L-mode, to minimise the impact of pedestal stability on confinement.

Power balance and perturbative transport analyses reveal that the electron heat transport is unaffected by the differences in isotope mass. Nonlinear simulations with the Gene code suggest that these L-mode discharges are ion temperature gradient (ITG) dominated. The different gyroradii due to the isotope mass do not necessarily result in a change of the predicted heat fluxes. This result is used in simulations with the Astra transport code to match the experimental profiles. In these simulations the experimental profiles and confinement times are reproduced with the same transport coefficients for hydrogen and deuterium plasmas. The mass only enters in the energy exchange term between electrons and ions.

These numerical observations are supported by additional experiments which show a lower ion energy confinement compared to that of the electrons. Additionally, hydrogen and deuterium plasmas have a similar confinement when the energy exchange time between electrons and ions is matched.

This strongly suggests that the observed isotope dependence in L-mode is not dominated by a gyroradius effect, but a consequence of the mass dependence in the collisional energy exchange between electrons and ions.
Monitoring performance using synthetic data for induced microseismicity by hydrofracking at the Wysin site (Poland)
Authors: López-Comino J.A. , Cesca S. , Kriegerowski M. , Heimann S. , Dahm T. , Mirek J. , Lasocki S.
Published: April 2017

Ideally, the performance of a dedicated seismic monitoring installation should be assessed prior to the observation of target seismicity. This work is focused on a hydrofracking experiment monitored at Wysin, NE Poland. A microseismic synthetic catalogue is generated to assess the monitoring performance during the pre-operational phase, where seismic information only concerns the noise conditions and the potential background seismicity. Full waveform, accounting for the expected spatial, magnitude and focal mechanism distributions and a realistic local crustal model, are combined with real noise recording to produce either event based or continuous synthetic waveforms. The network detection performance is assessed in terms of the magnitude of completeness (Mc) through two different techniques. First, we use an amplitude threshold, taking into the ratio among the maximal amplitude of synthetic waveforms and station-dependent noise levels, for different values of signal-to-noise ratio. The detection probability at each station is estimated for the whole data set and extrapolated to a broader range of magnitude and distances. We estimate an Mc of about 0.55, when considering the distributed network, and can further decrease Mc to 0.45 using arrays techniques. The second approach, taking advantage on an automatic, coherence-based detection algorithm, can lower Mc to ∼ 0.1, at the cost of an increase of false detections. Mc experiences significant changes during day hours, in consequence of strongly varying noise conditions. Moreover, due to the radiation patterns and network geometry, double-couple like sources are better detected than tensile cracks, which may be induced during fracking.
Asynchronous automated electronic laboratory result notifications: a systematic review
Authors: Slovis Benjamin H , Nahass Thomas A , Salmasian Hojjat , Kuperman Gilad , Vawdrey David K
Published: April 2017

Objective

To systematically review the literature pertaining to asynchronous automated electronic notifications of laboratory results to clinicians.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Collaboration were queried for studies pertaining to automated electronic notifications of laboratory results. A title review was performed on the primary results, with a further abstract review and full review to produce the final set of included articles.

Results

The full review included 34 articles, representing 19 institutions. Of these, 19 reported implementation and design of systems, 11 reported quasi-experimental studies, 3 reported a randomized controlled trial, and 1 was a meta-analysis. Twenty-seven articles included alerts of critical results, while 5 focused on urgent notifications and 2 on elective notifications. There was considerable variability in clinical setting, system implementation, and results presented.

Conclusion

Several asynchronous automated electronic notification systems for laboratory results have been evaluated, most from >10 years ago. Further research on the effect of notifications on clinicians as well as the use of modern electronic health records and new methods of notification is warranted to determine their effects on workflow and clinical outcomes.
Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms With the SILK Embolization Device in a Multicenter Study. A Retrospective Data Analysis
Authors: Pumar José Manuel , Banguero Alexandra , Cuellar Hugo , Guimaraens Leopoldo , Masso Javier , Miralbes Salvador , Blanco-Ulla Miguel , Vazquez-Herrero Fernando , Souto Miguel , Gelabert-Gonzalez Miguel
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Flow-diverter technology has become an important stent-based embolization tool in the treatment of complex cerebrovascular pathology. We report here the experience of 4 Spanish centers with using the SILK flow-diverter (SFD) device.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of using the SFD in the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms with complex morphology.

METHODS

We retrospectively examined a prospectively maintained database of patients treated with SFD devices between July 2008 and December 2013 at 1 of 4 institutions in Spain. Data regarding patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, and technical procedure were analyzed. Angiographic and clinical findings were recorded during the procedure and at 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

A total of 175 SFD devices were implanted in 157 patients (women/men: 119/38; mean, median, and range of age: 56.2, 56.7, and 19-80 years, respectively), who were treated in a delayed manner (3-6 months from the event) for 180 aneurysms (165 unruptured and 15 ruptured). Adverse events (acute and delayed) were observed in 28.7% of cases (45/157), and most were resolved (19.1%; 30/157). Six months after the procedure, total morbidity and mortality were 9.6% (15/157) and 3.2% (5/157), respectively. Long-term imaging follow-up showed complete occlusion, neck remnants, and residual aneurysm in 78.1% (100/128), 14.0% (18/128), and 7.8% (10/128) of cases, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The SFD device is an effective tool for the treatment of challenging aneurysms, and allows complete occlusion within a year of the procedure in most patients, with morbidity and mortality comparable to those previously reported for similar devices.
Radiosurgery for Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: An International Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ding Dale , Starke Robert M. , Kano Hideyuki , Lee John Y.K. , Mathieu David , Pierce John , Huang Paul , Missios Symeon , Feliciano Caleb , Rodriguez-Mercado Rafael , Almodovar Luis , Grills Inga S. , Silva Danilo , Abbassy Mahmoud , Kondziolka Douglas , Barnett Gene H. , Lunsford L. Dade , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND: The role of intervention in the management of unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (AVM) is controversial.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze in a multicenter, retrospective cohort study, the outcomes following radiosurgery for unruptured AVMs and determine predictive factors.

METHODS: We evaluated and pooled AVM radiosurgery data from 8 institutions participating in the International Gamma Knife Research Foundation. Patients with unruptured AVMs and ≥12 mo of follow-up were included in the study cohort. Favorable outcome was defined as AVM obliteration, no postradiosurgical hemorrhage, and no permanently symptomatic radiation-induced changes.

RESULTS: The unruptured AVM cohort comprised 938 patients with a median age of 35 yr. The median nidus volume was 2.4 cm3, 71% of AVMs were located in eloquent brain areas, and the Spetzler-Martin grade was III or higher in 57%. The median radiosurgical margin dose was 21 Gy and follow-up was 71 mo. AVM obliteration was achieved in 65%. The annual postradiosurgery hemorrhage rate was 1.4%. Symptomatic and permanent radiation-induced changes occurred in 9% and 3%, respectively. Favorable outcome was achieved in 61%. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, smaller AVM maximum diameter (P = .001), the absence of AVM-associated arterial aneurysms (P = .001), and higher margin dose (P = .002) were found to be independent predictors of a favorable outcome. A margin dose ≥ 20 Gy yielded a significantly higher rate of favorable outcome (70% vs 36%; P < .001)

CONCLUSION: Radiosurgery affords an acceptable risk to benefit profile for patients harboring unruptured AVMs. These findings justify further prospective studies comparing radiosurgical intervention to conservative management for unruptured AVMs.
Foundational and Translational Research Opportunities to Improve Plant Health
Authors: Michelmore Richard , Coaker Gitta , Bart Rebecca , Beattie Gwyn , Bent Andrew , Bruce Toby , Cameron Duncan , Dangl Jeffery , Dinesh-Kumar Savithramma , Edwards Rob , Eves-van den Akker Sebastian , Gassmann Walter , Greenberg Jean T. , Hanley-Bowdoin Linda , Harrison Richard J. , Harvey Jagger , He Ping , Huffaker Alisa , Hulbert Scot , Innes Roger , Jones Jonathan D. G. , Kaloshian Isgouhi , Kamoun Sophien , Katagiri Fumiaki , Leach Jan , Ma Wenbo , McDowell John , Medford June , Meyers Blake , Nelson Rebecca , Oliver Richard , Qi Yiping , Saunders Diane , Shaw Michael , Smart Christine , Subudhi Prasanta , Torrance Lesley , Tyler Bret , Valent Barbara , Walsh John
Published: April 2017

The white paper reports the deliberations of a workshop focused on biotic challenges to plant health held in Washington, D.C. in September 2016. Ensuring health of food plants is critical to maintaining the quality and productivity of crops and for sustenance of the rapidly growing human population. There is a close linkage between food security and societal stability; however, global food security is threatened by the vulnerability of our agricultural systems to numerous pests, pathogens, weeds, and environmental stresses. These threats are aggravated by climate change, the globalization of agriculture, and an over-reliance on nonsustainable inputs. New analytical and computational technologies are providing unprecedented resolution at a variety of molecular, cellular, organismal, and population scales for crop plants as well as pathogens, pests, beneficial microbes, and weeds. It is now possible to both characterize useful or deleterious variation as well as precisely manipulate it. Data-driven, informed decisions based on knowledge of the variation of biotic challenges and of natural and synthetic variation in crop plants will enable deployment of durable interventions throughout the world. These should be integral, dynamic components of agricultural strategies for sustainable agriculture.
Survival of Fusarium solani f. sp. cucurbitae and Fungicide Application, Soil Solarization, and Biosolarization for Control of Crown and Foot Rot of Zucchini Squash
Authors: Pérez-Hernández Ana , Porcel-Rodríguez Elena , Gómez-Vázquez Julio
Published: April 2017

Fusarium crown and foot rot of zucchini squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) caused by Fusarium solani f. sp. cucurbitae is one of the major diseases affecting zucchini squash production in Almería, Spain. Experiments were conducted to determine the pathogen’s ability to survive in infested bags of perlite and to test several control methods under greenhouse conditions. The pathogen survived in the bags for at least 20 months with enough inoculum at that time to produce disease symptoms in zucchini plants, although disease severity was significantly reduced after 14 months. A total of 14 zucchini cultivars were inoculated with F. solani f. sp. cucurbitae, and all were highly susceptible to the disease. Eight fungicides and two microbial products, Trichoderma harzianum and Rhizophagus irregularis, were tested to determine their efficacy for the control of this disease. Prochloraz, carbendazim, and thiophanate-methyl, which are not labeled for use in zucchini in Spain, were highly effective for the control of the disease, while the other products were ineffective. Two soil solarization and biosolarization experiments were conducted in a greenhouse for 45-day periods during the summer. Inocula in the soil samples decreased by more than 99%, indicating the efficacy of completely closing the greenhouse windows, solarization, and biosolarization in reducing inoculum. Fungicide applications, crop rotation for at least two years, and soil solarization or biosolarization are promising control methods for this disease.
Genetic Characterization of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ Haplotypes Associated with Apiaceous Crops in France
Authors: Hajri Ahmed , Loiseau Marianne , Cousseau-Suhard Pascaline , Renaudin Isabelle , Gentit Pascal
Published: April 2017

‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ (Lso) is an emerging phytopathogenic bacterium that causes significant crop losses worldwide. This bacterium has been identified in association with diseases of several solanaceous crops in the United States and New Zealand, and with carrot and celery crops in several European countries. Five Lso haplotypes (LsoA, LsoB, LsoC, LsoD, and LsoE) have now been described worldwide. In France, symptoms of Lso were observed on plants of the Apiaceae family in several regions. One hundred and ninety-two samples of apiaceous plants were collected from 2012 to 2016 in different geographical regions and were tested for the occurrence of Lso by real-time PCR assay. In addition to carrot and celery, Lso was detected in four other apiaceous crops: chervil, fennel, parsley, and parsnip. These new findings suggest that Lso has a wider natural host range within the Apiaceae family than expected. To identify the Lso haplotypes present in France, we sequenced and analyzed the 16S rRNA gene and the 50S ribosomal protein rpIJ-rpIL gene region from a representative bacterial collection of 44 Lso-positive samples. Our SNP analysis revealed the occurrence of two distinct bacterial lineages that correspond to haplotypes D and E. Then, we assessed the phylogenetic relationships between strains isolated from France and a worldwide collection of Lso isolates by using the rpIJ-rpIL gene region sequences. The neighbor-joining tree constructed delineated five clusters corresponding to the five Lso haplotypes, with LsoD and LsoE being closely related phylogenetically. Altogether, the data presented here constitute a first step toward a better understanding of the genetic diversity among Lso haplotypes in France, and provide new insights into the host range of this emerging bacterial species.
Citrus leprosis virus N: A New Dichorhavirus Causing Citrus Leprosis Disease
Authors: Ramos-González Pedro Luis , Chabi-Jesus Camila , Guerra-Peraza Orlene , Tassi Aline Daniele , Kitajima Elliot Watanabe , Harakava Ricardo , Salaroli Renato Barbosa , Freitas-Astúa Juliana
Published: April 2017

Citrus leprosis (CL) is a viral disease endemic to the Western Hemisphere that produces local necrotic and chlorotic lesions on leaves, branches, and fruit and causes serious yield reduction in citrus orchards. Samples of sweet orange (Citrus × sinensis) trees showing CL symptoms were collected during a survey in noncommercial citrus areas in the southeast region of Brazil in 2013 to 2016. Transmission electron microscopy analyses of foliar lesions confirmed the presence of rod-like viral particles commonly associated with CL in the nucleus and cytoplasm of infected cells. However, every attempt to identify these particles by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction tests failed, even though all described primers for the detection of known CL-causing cileviruses and dichorhaviruses were used. Next-generation sequencing of total RNA extracts from three symptomatic samples revealed the genome of distinct, although highly related (>92% nucleotide sequence identity), viruses whose genetic organization is similar to that of dichorhaviruses. The genome sequence of these viruses showed <62% nucleotide sequence identity with those of orchid fleck virus and coffee ringspot virus. Globally, the deduced amino acid sequences of the open reading frames they encode share 32.7 to 63.8% identity with the proteins of the dichorhavirids. Mites collected from both the naturally infected citrus trees and those used for the transmission of one of the characterized isolates to Arabidopsis plants were anatomically recognized as Brevipalpus phoenicis sensu stricto. Molecular and biological features indicate that the identified viruses belong to a new species of CL-associated dichorhavirus, which we propose to call Citrus leprosis N dichorhavirus. Our results, while emphasizing the increasing diversity of viruses causing CL disease, lead to a reevaluation of the nomenclature of those viruses assigned to the genus Dichorhavirus. In this regard, a comprehensive discussion is presented.
Development and Validation of a TaqMan Real-Time PCR Assay for the Specific Detection and Quantification ofFusarium fujikuroiin Rice Plants and Seeds
Authors: Carneiro Greice Amaral , Matić Slavica , Ortu Giuseppe , Garibaldi Angelo , Spadaro Davide , Gullino Maria Lodovica
Published: April 2017

Bakanae disease, which is caused by the seedborne pathogen Fusarium fujikuroi, is found throughout the world on rice. A TaqMan real-time PCR has been developed on the TEF 1-α gene to detect F. fujikuroi in different rice tissues. Three primer/probe sets were tested. The selected set produced an amplicon of 84 bp and was specific for F. fujikuroi with respect to eight Fusarium species of rice and six other rice common pathogens. The assay was validated for specificity, selectivity, sensitivity, repeatability, and reproducibility. The detection limit was set at 27.5 fg of DNA, which is approximately equivalent to one haploid genome of F. fujikuroi. The developed TaqMan real-time assay was able to efficiently detect and quantify F. fujikuroi from rice culms, leaves, roots, and seeds. At 1 week post-germination (wpg), the pathogen was more diffused in the green tissues, while at 3 wpg it was uniformly spread also in the roots. The highest concentration of F. fujikuroi was measured in the M6 cultivar, which showed around 1,450 fungal cells/g. The assay was sufficiently sensitive to detect a few genomic equivalents in the rice seeds, corresponding to 9.89 F. fujikuroi cells/g. The assay permitted bakanae disease to be detected in asymptomatic tissues at the early rice development stages.
Food labeling issues in patients with severe food allergies: solving a hamlet-like doubt
Authors: Fierro Vincenzo , Di Girolamo Francesco , Marzano Valeria , Dahdah Lamia , Mennini Maurizio
Published: April 2017

Purpose of review

We review the laws on labeling in the international community, the difficulties they pose to the food manufacturers to prepare the food labels and the methodologies to determine the concentration of potential allergens in foods.

Recent findings

European Food Safety Authority and International Life Sciences Institute Europe are evaluating strategies to identify the threshold level of allergen that can trigger a reaction in individuals. The most used techniques to detect the presence of protein in food are Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, polymerase chain reaction and real time polymerase chain reaction. Researchers are now trying to apply proteomics to estimate the amount of protein within the food.

In order to protect the health of consumers, the Codex Alimentarius Commission updates constantly the list of allergens. In response to these regulations, some industries have also added some precautionary allergen labeling (PAL). It was generally agreed that PAL statements needed to be visible, simple, and safe. It was suggested that PAL be standardized, an action that would occur if the ‘Voluntary Incidental Trace Allergen Labelling’ process was made mandatory.

So far, no laboratory technique is able to reassure the consumers about the composition of foods found on the packaging. International authorities produced increasingly stringent laws, but more is still to do.
Early results of partial capitate shortening osteotomy in management of Kienböck disease
Authors: Singer Mohamed S. , Essawy Osama M. , Farag Hosam E.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Capitate shortening is the best decompression procedure in the management of Kienböck’s disease in patients with ulnar neutral or positive variance, although carpal collapse develops inevitably. The current study was to report our experience in partial capitate shortening osteotomy as an alternative procedure.

Methods:

This was a prospective study of 20 patients with Lichtman stage II and IIIa Kienböck’s disease managed by partial capitate shortening osteotomy.

Results:

At final follow-up (average 36.5 mo), visual analog pain scores improved significantly postoperatively to 3.3. Flexion and extension improved from 62% (±17%) and 52% (±21%) preoperatively to 63% (±13%) and 68% (±13) postoperatively, respectively. The power grip improved significantly from 49% (±16%) to 63% (±12%) postoperatively. The average quick Disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Score improved from 60.8(±13.8) to 38.3(±13.9) postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Partial capitate shortening is a simple and effective procedure for the management of ulnar neutral or ulnar positive Kienböck’s disease before the onset of radiocarpal arthrosis without violation of scaphocapitate joint thus avoiding carpal collapse that follows complete capitate shortening.

Type of Study/Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic IV.
Adverse childhood experiences and their effect on the orthopaedic surgery patient
Authors: Heaton Dennis J. , Fox Michael R.
Published: April 2017

The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study sought to determine if a relationship between adverse childhood experiences and long-term medical and public health problems exist. Ten risk factors that contribute to the leading cause of mortality in the United States were chosen for further analysis in the ACE study. The ten risk factors chosen were smoking, severe obesity, physical inactivity, depressed mood, suicide attempts, alcoholism, drug abuse, parenteral drug abuse, a high number of sexual partners, and history of sexually transmitted infections. The patients identified with one or more of these risk factors noted in the ACE study may present to an orthopaedic surgeon more frequently, with more severe injuries, reporting a decreased quality of life and increased pain when compared to those not falling into one of these risk categories. This patient population may also undergo more procedures and may suffer an increase in postoperative complications and a decrease in overall improvement after recovery. The goal of this literature review was to examine the ten risk factors suggested to be more prevalent in patients who have suffered from a greater number of adverse childhood experiences, and determine their potential effect on the management, treatment, and outcome for orthopaedic conditions. Available literature supports that the presentation and management of orthopaedic surgical cases may be more challenging in patients who fall into one of the above-discussed risk categories. Based on the results of ACE, this information can be inferred, although not conclusively, to mean that patients with a high ACE score may require the use of additional resources to provide the best outcome when being treated by the orthopaedic surgical team. This review is unable to conclude that using an ACE score in patients presenting for treatment by an orthopaedic surgeon would be beneficial. However, it may highlight the importance of the history, including the social history, to better determine what effect psychosocial factors may have in the assessment, management, and potential benefit of treatment for a patient.
Curve Modulation and Apex Migration Using Shilla Growth Guidance Rods for Early-onset Scoliosis at 5-Year Follow-up
Authors: Wilkinson John T. , Songy Chad E. , Bumpass David B. , McCullough Francis L. , McCarthy Richard E.
Published: April 2017

Background:

The Shilla procedure was designed to correct and control early-onset spinal deformity while harnessing a child’s remaining spinal growth. It allows for controlled axial skeletal growth within the construct, avoiding the need for frequent surgeries to lengthen implants. We hypothesized that curve characteristics evolve over time after initial apex fusion and placement of the Shilla implants. The purpose of this study was to identify trends in curve evolution after Shilla implantation and understand how these changes influence ultimate outcome.

Methods:

A single-center, retrospective review of all patients with Shilla implants in place for ≥5 years yielded 21 patients. Charts and radiographs were reviewed to compare coronal curve characteristics preoperatively, postoperatively, and at last follow-up to note changes in the apex of the primary curve. Also noted were the development of adjacent compensatory curves, the overall vertical spinal growth, and the need for definitive spinal fusion once skeletal maturity was reached.

Results:

Of the 21 patients, the curve apex migrated caudally in 12 patients (57%) and cephalad in 1 patient (5%), with a mean migration of 2.7 vertebral levels. Two patients (10%) developed new, significant compensatory curves (1 caudal and 1 cephalad). All patients demonstrated spinal growth in T1-S1 length following index surgery (mean, 45 mm). At skeletal maturity, 10 patients underwent definitive posterior spinal fusion and instrumentation, and 3 underwent implant removal alone.

Conclusions:

This study constitutes the longest follow-up of Shilla patients evaluating curve and implant behavior. Results of this review suggest that the apex of the fused primary curve shifts in approximately 62% of patients, with nearly all of these (92%) involving a distal migration. Compensatory curves did develop after Shilla placement as well. Overall, these findings represent adding-on distal to the apex after Shilla instrumentation rather than a crankshaft phenomenon about the apex. A better understanding of spinal growth mechanics and outcomes after Shilla placement may improve our ability to appropriately select patients and instrumentation levels.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
VEPTR: Are We Reducing Respiratory Assistance Requirements?
Authors: Nossov Sarah B. , Curatolo Evan , Campbell Robert M. , Mayer Oscar H. , Garg Sumeet , Cahill and Patrick J.
Published: April 2017

Background:

The assisted ventilation rating (AVR) indicates the degree of external respiratory support required in children with thoracic insufficiency syndrome (TIS) and early onset scoliosis. For skeletally immature patients with TIS, the vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) device can be used to improve lung volume and growth. We hypothesized that patients who underwent early thoracic reconstruction by VEPTR treatment had an improved respiratory status.

Methods:

Preoperative and postoperative AVR ratings were prospectively collected in a multicenter study group and compared to determine change after VEPTR treatment. Patients under 10 years of age at initial implant with minimum of 2-year follow-up data were included. Patients were excluded if there were incomplete data or if initial AVR was normal (breathing on room air). Statistical analysis was performed on groups which had stable, declined, and improved AVR at final follow-up.

Results:

Database search yielded 77 patients with initial abnormal AVR. Average follow-up was 5.6 years. The most frequent primary diagnoses were congenital scoliosis (n=14) and spinal muscular atrophy (n=14). In total, 19 (24%) demonstrated improvement, 9 (12%) patients deteriorated, and 49 (64%) remained at the same level. The average preoperative major curve in those with improvement (58.4 degrees) and those with no change (63.5 degrees) was less than in those with deterioration (85.5 degrees) (P=0.014). The average age in years at implant of those with improvement (4) was less than those declined (6.7) and those with no change (5.5). In total, 16 (84.2%) of those that improved had a normal AVR and did not require respiratory support at last follow-up.

Conclusions:

There is evidence that a subset of patients with early onset scoliosis and TIS who received early thoracic reconstruction with VEPTR treatment show complete resolution of pulmonary support at final follow-up. In total, 89% of 79 patients did not experience respiratory deterioration. A total of 24% (n=19) had a positive change with over 84% (n=16) of this group no longer requiring support.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—prognostic.
Evaluation of Gabapentin and Clonidine Use in Children Following Spinal Fusion Surgery for Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Choudhry Dinesh K. , Brenn B. Randall , Sacks Karen , Shah Suken
Published: April 2017

Background:

Opioids are the mainstay of therapy for pain relief following posterior spinal fusion (PSF) surgery. Various adjunctive medications are being used to augment analgesia and to reduce opioid-related side effects. At our institution, we have sequentially added 2 adjuncts to a standard morphine patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) regimen. The goal of our study was to evaluate pain control and the benefit of gabapentin and the combination of gabapentin and clonidine, whereas morphine PCA was in use in children following PSF surgery.

Methods:

Following Institutional Review Board approval, data were collected retrospectively from the charts of 127 patients who underwent PSF for idiopathic scoliosis. Children were divided into the 3 following groups: group P, morphine PCA only (42 patients), group G, morphine PCA+gabapentin (45 patients), and group C, morphine PCA+gabapentin+clonidine (40 patients).

Results:

Addition of gabapentin to our regimen improved the outcome, but the addition of transdermal clonidine and gabapentin together were found to be significantly better in some aspects. Children in group G and C used less morphine on postoperative day 1 following surgery, had more PCA demand-free hours, were able to take orals, were able to ambulate sooner, and had a shorter hospital stay than group P. There were no differences in side effects or sedation between the 3 groups.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, additions of postoperative transdermal clonidine and perioperative oral gabapentin together were found to improve functional outcomes following PSF surgery. Group G and C had reduced opioid use and shorter hospital stay than group P. Addition of these adjuncts together was found to be better since group C patients made fewer PCA attempts to obtain morphine over the first 10-hour period postoperatively and were able to ambulate sooner than group G. The PCA pump usage pattern provides useful information about patient comfort and efficacy of adjunctive medications.

Level of Evidence:

Level II—retrospective study.
Estriol: emerging clinical benefits
Authors: Ali Emad S. , Mangold Cheyenne , Peiris Alan N.
Published: April 2017

Objective:

Estriol is the main estrogen in pregnancy, but has received less attention outside gestation. It is well known that pregnancy has an immunosuppressive effect on many autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, thyroiditis, uveitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Emerging evidence indicates that estriol has potential immunomodulatory benefits for many disease states including autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative conditions. In this review, we discuss emerging roles for estriol in the treatment of menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, cancer, hyperlipidemia, vascular disease, and multiple sclerosis. Estriol appears to offer a potentially cost-effective approach to a variety of conditions and may offer a wide range of health benefits.

Methods:

We reviewed the English language MEDLINE literature with estriol in the title with emphasis on publications including nonpregnant females between January 1974 and August 2016. Approximately 393 such articles were considered and 72 articles have been referenced in this review.

Results:

Estriol offers considerable benefits for postmenopausal women with reduced risks that are normally associated with traditional hormone therapies. These benefits include improved control of menopausal symptoms and better urogenital health. Moreover, the immunomodulatory role of estriol in reducing proinflammatory cytokines may be an important new therapeutic option for chronic autoimmune and neurodegenerative illnesses. Since it is a relatively weak estrogen, there is potential for use in men for conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

Conclusions:

We conclude transvaginal estriol potentially offers a suitable physiologic delivery and cost-effective alternative to currently available estrogen regimens in selected patients. Additional studies on mode of delivery, safety, and efficacy merit further investigation.
Quantitative analysis of placebo response and factors associated with menopausal hot flashes
Authors: Li Lujin , Xu Ling , Wu Junyi , Dong Lidan , Lv Yinghua , Zheng Qingshan
Published: April 2017

Objective:

The aim of the study was to quantitatively analyze the placebo response and the factors associated with menopausal hot flashes.

Methods:

The PubMed and Cochrane Library databases were searched for placebo-controlled trials that reported the treatment of menopausal hot flashes, with a retrieval deadline of December 31, 2015. The clinical and demographic characteristics of participants and placebo responses, defined as the percentage of reduction in hot flashes at each observation time point compared with that of baseline values, were extracted from the studies. Model-based meta-analysis was used to describe the time course of placebo response and identify the related factors.

Results:

Eighty-five trials in 78 articles, involving 8,302 women, were included in the analysis. Of these, 47 trials were about hormonal drugs, 37 were about nonhormonal drugs, and 1 included both hormonal and nonhormonal drugs. Our results indicated that the placebo responses for hot flashes increased in a time-dependent manner and reached a plateau after week 12. Additionally, the placebo responses were significantly higher in the trials of hormonal drugs than in the trials of nonhormonal drugs at week 24 (−51.2% vs -40.4%; P < 0.05), and the difference between them was comparable with the effect of paroxetine.

Conclusions:

The placebo response for menopausal hot flashes was related to the active comparator; a higher response rate was observed in trials of hormonal drugs than in trials of nonhormonal drugs. These findings suggest that subjective expectations affect the treatment efficacy of menopausal hot flashes.