bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel DYRK1A (Dual specificity tyrosine phosphorylation‐regulated kinase 1A) inhibitor for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: effect on Tau and amyloid pathologies in vitro
Authors: Coutadeur Séverine , Benyamine Hélène , Delalonde Laurence , de Oliveira Catherine , Leblond Bertrand , Foucourt Alicia , Besson Thierry , Casagrande Anne‐Sophie , Taverne Thierry , Girard Angélique , Pando Matthew P. , Désiré Laurent
Published: December 2014

The dual‐specificity tyrosine phosphorylation‐regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) gene is located within the Down Syndrome (DS) critical region on chromosome 21 and is implicated in the generation of Tau and amyloid pathologies that are associated with the early onset Alzheimer's Disease (AD) observed in DS. DYRK1A is also found associated with neurofibrillary tangles in sporadic AD and phosphorylates key AD players (Tau, amyloid precursor, protein, etc). Thus, DYRK1A may be an important therapeutic target to modify the course of Tau and amyloid beta (Aβ) pathologies. Here, we describe EHT 5372 (methyl 9‐(2,4‐dichlorophenylamino) thiazolo[5,4‐f]quinazoline‐2‐carbimidate), a novel, highly potent (IC50 = 0.22 nM) DYRK1A inhibitor with a high degree of selectivity over 339 kinases. Models in which inhibition of DYRK1A by siRNA reduced and DYRK1A over‐expression induced Tau phosphorylation or Aβ production were used. EHT 5372 inhibits DYRK1A‐induced Tau phosphorylation at multiple AD‐relevant sites in biochemical and cellular assays. EHT 5372 also normalizes both Aβ‐induced Tau phosphorylation and DYRK1A‐stimulated Aβ production. DYRK1A is thus as a key element of Aβ‐mediated Tau hyperphosphorylation, which links Tau and amyloid pathologies. EHT 5372 and other compounds in its class warrant in vivo investigation as a novel, high‐potential therapy for AD and other Tau opathies.

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Inhibition of the dual specificity tyrosine‐phosphorylation‐regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) is a new high‐potential therapeutic approach for Alzheimer disease. Here we describe EHT 5372, a novel potent and selective DYRK1A inhibitor. EHT 5372 inhibits DYRK1A‐induced Tau phosphorylation, Aβ production and Aβ effects on phospho‐Tau, including Tau aggregation.
Ten years of transcriptomics in wild populations: what have we learned about their ecology and evolution?
Authors: Alvarez Mariano , Schrey Aaron W. , Richards Christina L.
Published: December 2014

Molecular ecology has moved beyond the use of a relatively small number of markers, often noncoding, and it is now possible to use whole‐genome measures of gene expression with microarrays and RNAseq (i.e. transcriptomics) to capture molecular response to environmental challenges. While transcriptome studies are shedding light on the mechanistic basis of traits as complex as personality or physiological response to catastrophic events, these approaches are still challenging because of the required technical expertise, difficulties with analysis and cost. Still, we found that in the last 10 years, 575 studies used microarrays or RNAseq in ecology. These studies broadly address three questions that reflect the progression of the field: (i) How much variation in gene expression is there and how is it structured? (ii) How do environmental stimuli affect gene expression? (iii) How does gene expression affect phenotype? We discuss technical aspects of RNAseq and microarray technology, and a framework that leverages the advantages of both. Further, we highlight future directions of research, particularly related to moving beyond correlation and the development of additional annotation resources. Measuring gene expression across an array of taxa in ecological settings promises to enrich our understanding of ecology and genome function.
Recombination of strain O segments to HCpro‐encoding sequence of strain N of Potato virus Y modulates necrosis induced in tobacco and in potatoes carrying resistance genes Ny or Nc
Authors: Tian Yan‐Ping , Valkonen Jari P. T.
Published: December 2014

Hypersensitive resistance (HR) to strains O and C of Potato virus Y (PVY, genus Potyvirus) is conferred by potato genes Nytbr and Nctbr, respectively; however, PVY N strains overcome these resistance genes. The viral helper component proteinases (HCpro, 456 amino acids) from PVYN and PVYO are distinguished by an eight‐amino‐acid signature sequence, causing HCpro to fold into alternative conformations. Substitution of only two residues (K269R and R270K) of the eight‐amino‐acid signature in PVYN HCpro was needed to convert the three‐dimensional (3D) model of PVYN HCpro to a PVYO‐like conformation and render PVYN avirulent in the presence of Nytbr, whereas four amino acid substitutions were necessary to change PVYO HCpro to a PVYN‐like conformation. Hence, the HCpro conformation rather than other features ascribed to the sequence were essential for recognition by Nytbr. The 3D model of PVYC HCpro closely resembled PVYO, but differed from PVYN HCpro. HCpro of all strains was structurally similar to β‐catenin. Sixteen PVYN605‐based chimeras were inoculated to potato cv. Pentland Crown (Nytbr), King Edward (Nctbr) and Pentland Ivory (Nytbr/Nctbr). Eleven chimeras induced necrotic local lesions and caused no systemic infection, and thus differed from both parental viruses that infected King Edward systemically, and from PVYN605 that infected Pentland Crown and Pentland Ivory systemically. These 11 chimeras triggered both Nytbr and Nctbr and, in addition, six induced veinal necrosis in tobacco. Further, specific amino acid residues were found to have an additive impact on necrosis. These results shed new light on the causes of PVY‐related necrotic symptoms in potato.
Investigation of Aβ phosphorylated at serine 8 (pAβ) in Alzheimer's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies and vascular dementia
Authors: Ashby Emma L. , Miners James S. , Kumar Sathish , Walter Jochen , Love Seth , Kehoe Patrick G.
Published: December 2014

Aims

Deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain is one of the defining abnormalities of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Phosphorylation of Aβ at serine 8 (pAβ) has been implicated in its aggregation in vitro and pAβ level has been shown to be significantly elevated in AD. We aimed to assess the specificity of pAβ for AD and have investigated associations of pAβ with parenchymal and cerebrovascular accumulation of Aβ, disease progression, angiotensin‐converting enzyme activity and APOE genotype.

Methods

The distribution of pAβ was studied by immunohistochemistry in sporadic and familial AD, pure dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), pure vascular dementia (VaD) and age‐matched controls. Soluble and insoluble (guanidine‐extractable) pAβ level was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the midfrontal and parahippocampal cortex in sporadic AD (n = 20, 10 with Braak tangle stages of III–IV and 10 of stages V–VI), DLB (n = 10), VaD (n = 10) and age‐matched controls (n = 20).

Results

We found pAβ to be associated with only a subset of Aβ plaques and vascular deposits in sporadic and familial AD, with absent or minimal immunohistochemically detectable pAβ in control, DLB and VaD brains. In both brain regions, insoluble pAβ level was significantly elevated only in advanced AD (Braak tangle stage of V or VI) and in the parahippocampus soluble and insoluble pAβ level increased with the number of APOE ε4 alleles.

Conclusions

These results indicate that pAβ accumulation in the parenchyma and vasculature is largely restricted to late‐stage AD (Braak tangle stage V–VI).
Analysis of phenotypic change in relation to climatic drivers in a population of Soay sheep Ovis aries
Authors: Simmonds Emily G. , Coulson Tim
Published: December 2014

Climatic change has frequently been identified as a key driver of change in biological communities. These changes can take the form of alterations to population dynamics, phenotypic characters, genetics and the life history of organisms and can have impacts on entire ecosystems. This study presents a novel investigation of how changes in a large scale climatic index, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) can influence population dynamics and phenotypic characters in a population of ungulates. We use an integral projection model combined with actual climate change predictions to project future body size distributions for a population of Soay sheep Ovis aries. The climate change predictions used to direct our model projections were taken from published results of climate models, covering a range of different emissions scenarios. Our model results showed that for positive changes in the mean NAO large population declines occurred simultaneously with increases in mean body weight. The exact direction and magnitude of changes to population dynamics and character distributions were dependent on the greenhouse gas emissions scenario and model used to predict the NAO. This study has demonstrated how integral projection models can use outputs of climate models to direct projections of population dynamics and phenotypic character distributions. This approach allows the results of this study to be placed within current climate change research. The nature of integral projection models means that this methodology can be easily applied to other populations. The model can also be easily updated when new climate change predictions become available, making it a useful tool for understanding potential population level responses to climatic change.

Synthesis

Understanding how changes in climate affect biological communities is a key component in predicting the future form of populations. Utilising a novel approach that incorporates climatic drivers (in this instance the winter North Atlantic Oscillation) into an integral projection model framework, we predict future Soay sheep dynamics under specific climate change scenarios. Tracking quantitative trait distributions and life history metrics, our results predict declining population size and increasing body weight for an increasingly positive winter North Atlantic Oscillation index, as predicted by climate models. This has important implications for future wildlife management strategies and linking demographic responses to climate change.
Warming induces synchrony and destabilizes experimental pond zooplankton metacommunities
Authors: Thompson Patrick L. , Beisner Beatrix E. , Gonzalez Andrew
Published: December 2014

The spatial insurance hypothesis predicts that intermediate rates of dispersal between patches in a metacommunity allow species to track favourable conditions, preserving diversity and stabilizing biomass at local and regional scales. However, theory is unclear as to whether dispersal will provide spatial insurance when environmental conditions are changing directionally. In particular, increased temperatures as a result of climate change are expected to cause synchronous growth or decline across species and communities, and this has the potential to erode the stabilizing compensatory dynamics facilitated by dispersal. Here we report on an experimental test of how dispersal affects the diversity and stability of metacommunities under warming using replicate two‐patch pond zooplankton metacommunities. Initial differences in local community composition and abiotic conditions were established by seeding each patch in the metacommunities with plankton and sediment from one of two natural ponds that differed in water chemistry and species composition. We exposed metacommunities to a 2°C increase in average ambient temperature, crossed with three rates of dispersal (none, intermediate, high). In ambient conditions, intermediate dispersal rates preserved diversity and stabilized metacommunities by promoting spatially asynchronous fluctuations in biomass, especially between local populations of the dominant genus, Ceriodaphnia. However, warming synchronized their populations so that these effects of dispersal were lost. Furthermore, because the stabilizing effect of dispersal was primarily due to asynchronous fluctuations between populations of a single genus, metacommunity biomass was stabilized, but dispersal did not stabilize local community biomass. Our results show that dispersal can preserve diversity and provide stability to metacommunities, but also show that this benefit can be eroded when warming is directional and synchronous across patches of a metacommunity, as is expected with climate warming.
Rhinitis in the first 18 months of life: Exploring the role of respiratory viruses
Authors: Hardjojo Antony , Goh Anne , Shek Lynette P.C. , Van Bever Hugo P. S. , Teoh Oon Hoe , Soh Jian Yi , Thomas Biju , Tan Boon Huan , Chan Yiong Huak , Ramamurthy Mahesh Babu , Goh Daniel Y. T. , Soh Shu‐E , Saw Seang‐Mei , Kwek Kenneth , Chong Yap‐Seng , Godfrey Keith M. , Gluckman Peter D. , Lee Bee Wah
Published: December 2014

Background

Rhinitis is common in early childhood, but allergic rhinitis is considered a later manifestation of the atopic march. This study aimed to evaluate rhinitis (allergic and non‐allergic) in the first 18 months of life, its link with other atopic manifestations and the role of respiratory viruses.

Methods

Subjects (n = 1237) of the Singapore GUSTO birth cohort were followed up quarterly until 18 months of age with questionnaires to screen for rhinitis symptoms lasting at least 2 wk and with monthly calls to positive subjects to detect prolonged/recurrent rhinitis symptoms (total duration ≥4 wk). Anterior nasal swabbing for molecular‐based virus detection was conducted during these visits and near (within a month) rhinitis episodes. Skin prick testing to common environmental and food allergens was conducted at the 18 month visit.

Results

Prolonged/recurrent rhinitis was significantly associated with history of parental atopy (mother: aOR = 2.17; father: aOR = 1.82) and atopic comorbidities of eczema (aOR = 2.53) and wheeze (aOR = 4.63) (p < 0.05), though not with allergen sensitization. Although the frequency of nasal respiratory virus detection during scheduled quarterly visits did not differ between prolonged/recurrent rhinitis and matched controls (p > 0.05), virus detection was higher in swabs obtained within a month following rhinitis episodes in prolonged/recurrent rhinitis subjects compared with scheduled visits (adjusted p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Based on the duration of rhinitis symptoms, this study defined a subset of early childhood rhinitis which was associated with atopic predisposition and comorbidities. Persistent respiratory viral shedding may contribute to the symptomatology. Whether this entity is a precursor of subsequent childhood allergic rhinitis will require longer follow‐up.
Overexpression of patatin‐related phospholipase AIIIδ altered plant growth and increased seed oil content in camelina
Authors: Li Maoyin , Wei Fang , Tawfall Amanda , Tang Michelle , Saettele Allison , Wang Xuemin
Published: December 2014

Camelina sativa is a Brassicaceae oilseed species being explored as a biofuel and industrial oil crop. A growing number of studies have indicated that the turnover of phosphatidylcholine plays an important role in the synthesis and modification of triacylglycerols. This study manipulated the expression of a patatin‐related phospholipase AIIIδ (pPLAIIIδ) in camelina to determine its effect on seed oil content and plant growth. Constitutive overexpression of pPLAIIIδ under the control of the constitutive cauliflower mosaic 35S promoter resulted in a significant increase in seed oil content and a decrease in cellulose content. In addition, the content of major membrane phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine, in 35S::pPLAIIIδ plants was increased. However, these changes in 35S::pPLAIIIδ camelina were associated with shorter cell length, leaves, stems, and seed pods and a decrease in overall seed production. When pPLAIIIδ was expressed under the control of the seed specific, β‐conglycinin promoter, the seed oil content was increased without compromising plant growth. The results suggest that pPLAIIIδ alters the carbon partitioning by decreasing cellulose content and increasing oil content in camelina.
Outpatient Use of Oral Propranolol and Topical Timolol for Infantile Hemangiomas: Survey Results and Comparison with Propranolol Consensus Statement Guidelines
Authors: Kumar Monique G. , Coughlin Carrie , Bayliss Susan J.
Published: December 2014

Oral and topical β‐blockers are used to treat infantile hemangiomas (IHs). Although a recent consensus report provided guidelines for the treatment of IH with propranolol, there are no standard guidelines for the use of topical timolol. The objectives of this study were to determine the current use of oral propranolol and topical timolol by pediatric dermatologists in an outpatient setting and to compare current propranolol use with published propranolol consensus guidelines. An electronic survey was sent to pediatric dermatologists in May and June 2013. One hundred forty‐nine pediatric dermatologists responded to the survey, a 79% response rate. Of the respondents, 96% prescribed oral propranolol, but 75% did not follow consensus guidelines exactly; recommended history, physical examination, initial dose, and frequency varied. The dose of propranolol was usually titrated up to goal dose as recommended (89%). Fifty‐six percent monitored vital signs in patients after the initial dose and 49% continued to monitor vital signs in their clinic after each dose escalation, which did not meet consensus guideline recommendations. Ninety‐one percent reported using topical timolol for the treatment of IH and 66% responded they had used topical timolol in conjunction with oral propranolol to treat IH. The most common indication was superficial hemangiomas (97%). Most practitioners (74%) did not routinely monitor heart rate or blood pressure in infants treated with topical timolol. This study highlights the variability in prescribing and monitoring practices of physicians using propranolol for the treatment of IHs and demonstrates that topical timolol is commonly used alone and in conjunction with oral propranolol to treat IHs.
Thread Epilation: A Less Traumatic Technique for Patients Undergoing Isotretinoin Therapy
Authors: Wu Sam , Bhandari Rachna , Burkhart Craig N.
Published: December 2014

Skin fragility is a well‐established complication of isotretinoin therapy for severe or resistant acne and presents a challenge to traditional modes of epilation such as waxing. As such, other less traumatic hair removal methods are desired. Herein we present the threading technique as an alternative form of epilation for patients in whom waxing is contraindicated secondary to concerns over skin fragility.
Nevus Comedonicus: A Case Series
Authors: Ferrari Bruno , Taliercio Vanina , Restrepo Paola , Luna Paula , Abad María Eugenia , Larralde Margarita
Published: December 2014

Twelve previously unreported cases of nevus comedonicus are presented. Characteristic closely grouped dilated follicular openings with horny plugs that mimic comedones led to the diagnosis. One patient had nevus comedonicus syndrome and there were cases with atypical locations and unusual complications of this condition. We also highlight clinical associations and therapeutic options.
Successful Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules with Carbon Dioxide Laser Resurfacing After Local Anesthesia in an Adolescent Patient
Authors: Krakowski Andrew C. , Feldstein Stephanie , Shumaker Peter R.
Published: December 2014

Pearly penile papules (PPP) can cause significant psychological morbidity. Herein we report the successful use of a macrofractionated carbon dioxide laser at full‐field ablative density settings for the treatment of PPP in a 17‐year‐old boy using local anesthetic alone. Our experience leads us to believe that PPP can be successfully treated in the pediatric and adolescent populations using this novel and relatively noninvasive technique.
Quality of Life and Social Isolation in Greek Adolescents with Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis Treated with Botulinum Toxin Type A: A Case Series
Authors: Kouris Anargyros , Armyra Kalliopi , Stefanaki Christina , Christodoulou Christos , Karimali Polixeni , Kontochristopoulos George
Published: December 2014

Primary hyperhidrosis, although extensively documented in adults, typically has onset that dates back to early childhood. It is an unpleasant and socially disabling problem for the affected child, but little attention has been paid to the disease in adolescents. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) in adolescents with primary palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis and to determine its effect on quality of life and social isolation. Thirty‐five individuals (17 girls, 18 boys) with moderate to severe palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis were treated with BTXA (onabotulinum). Patients were examined at baseline and 6 months after treatment. The Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) was used to evaluate disease severity and the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) was used to assess quality of life. The University of California at Los Angeles loneliness scale (UCLA version 3) was used to assess personal perception of loneliness and social isolation. The median age of the participants was 14 years, and 48.6% were female. Twenty‐one had palmar hyperhidrosis, and 14 had axillary hyperhidrosis. Total CDLQI and social isolation scores decreased significantly after treatment with BTXA (both p < 0.001). There was a significant difference between pre‐ and post‐treatment levels of severity of hyperhidrosis. No statistically significant difference was documented for CDLQI and UCLA scores between boys and girls. Treatment of hyperhidrosis with BTXA resulted in improvement in quality of life, social skills, and activities.
Staphylococcus lugdunensis Abscesses Complicating Molluscum Contagiosum in Two Children
Authors: Lacour Marc , Posfay‐Barbe Klara Maria , La Scala Giorgio Carlo
Published: December 2014

We report the occurrence of Staphylococcus lugdunensis abscesses in two girls with molluscum contagiosum who both required surgical intervention under general anaesthesia. S. lugdunensis is a coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus recently recognized as an emerging human pathogen. Because of its ubiquitous nature and the high prevalence of molluscum contagiosum in children, it is likely that this as yet unreported association may be underestimated, thus raising the question as to whether bacterial culture of superinfected mollusca should be obtained more often.
Evaluation of Subclinical Endometritis and Consequences on Fertility in Piedmontese Beef Cows
Authors: Ricci A , Gallo S , Molinaro F , Dondo A , Zoppi S , Vincenti L
Published: December 2014

Contents

Subclinical endometritis (SEM) is poorly investigated in beef cows, as stated in the literature. This project aims to evaluate the rate and the consequences of SEM in Piedmontese cows, with a focus on bacteriological findings and fertility parameters. Uterine cytology was performed for 97 subjects; a total of 31% of the cows were diagnosed as being positive for SEM and as having an 8% neutrophil (PMN) presence on the slide, which is considered as the best cut‐off to diagnose the pathology. Only 13% of the cows positive for SEM were pregnant within 130 dpp and generally showed increases of 40 days in the partum to conception interval compared with the negative cows (142 vs 182, p = 0.01). Cows positive for both bacteriology and cytology showed a lower fertility than cows with only inflammation or only a bacterial presence (p = 0.0004). Bacterial isolation detected different species, but no difference in regard to the impact of these bacteria on SEM was shown. Parity, presence of calves, hygiene condition, age and number of service did not affect whether a cow was positive for subclinical endometritis (p < 0.05). The housing system (free stalls vs tie stalls) used seems to affect the SEM rate in Piedmontese cows; cows bred in tie stalls were more likely to be positive for SEM (OR = 2.2; p = 0.04). In conclusion, cytology seems to be a good technique for the diagnosis of subclinical endometritis in beef cows, and as in dairy cows, subclinical endometritis has a detrimental effect on fertility, causing an increase in partum to conception and a decrease in the rate of cows who become pregnant within 130 dpp, particularly for those cows housed in a tie stall.
Contraction velocity influence the magnitude and etiology of neuromuscular fatigue during repeated maximal contractions
Authors: Morel B. , Clémençon M. , Rota S. , Millet G. Y. , Bishop D. J. , Brosseau O. , Rouffet D. M. , Hautier C. A.
Published: December 2014

This study aimed to compare the magnitude and etiology of neuromuscular fatigue during maximal repeated contractions performed in two contraction modes (concentric vs isometric) and at two contraction velocities (30/s vs 240°/s). Eleven lower limb‐trained males performed 20 sets of maximal contractions at three different angular velocities: 0°/s (KE0), 30/s (KE30), and 240°/s (KE240). Cumulated work, number of contraction, duty cycle, and contraction time were controlled. Torque, superimposed and resting twitches, as well as gas exchange, were analyzed. Increasing contraction velocity was associated with greater maximal voluntary torque loss (KE0: −9.8 ± 3.9%;KE30: −16.4 ± 8.5%;KE240: −32.6 ± 6.3%;P < 0.05). Interestingly, the torque decrease was similar for a given cumulated work. Compared withKE0,KE240generated a greater evoked torque loss (Db100: −24.3 ± 5.3% vs −5.9 ± 6.9%;P < 0.001), a higherO2consumption (23.7 ± 6.4 mL/min/kg vs 15.7 ± 3.8 mL/min/kg;P < 0.001), but a lower voluntary activation (VA) loss (−4.3 ± 1.6% vs −11.2 ± 4.9%;P < 0.001). The neuromuscular perturbations were intermediate forKE30(Db100: −10.0 ± 6.8%;VA: −7.2 ± 2.8%). Although the amount of mechanical work cumulated strongly determined the magnitude of torque decrease, the contraction velocity and mode influenced the origin of the neuromuscular fatigue. The metabolic stress and peripheral fatigue increased but reduction ofVAis attenuated when the contraction velocity increased from 0°/s to 240°/s.
Effects of hamstring‐emphasized neuromuscular training on strength and sprinting mechanics in football players
Authors: Mendiguchia J. , Martinez‐Ruiz E. , Morin J.B. , Samozino P. , Edouard P. , Alcaraz P.E. , Esparza‐Ros F. , Mendez‐Villanueva A.
Published: December 2014

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of a neuromuscular training program combining eccentric hamstring muscle strength, plyometrics, and free/resisted sprinting exercises on knee extensor/flexor muscle strength, sprinting performance, and horizontal mechanical properties of sprint running in football (soccer) players. Sixty footballers were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG) or a control group (CG). Twenty‐seven players completed the EG and 24 players the CG. Both groups performed regular football training while the EG performed also a neuromuscular training during a 7‐week period. The EG showed a small increases in concentric quadriceps strength (ES = 0.38/0.58), a moderate to large increase in concentric (ES = 0.70/0.74) and eccentric (ES = 0.66/0.87) hamstring strength, and a small improvement in 5‐m sprint performance (ES = 0.32). By contrast, the CG presented lower magnitude changes in quadriceps (ES = 0.04/0.29) and hamstring (ES = 0.27/0.34) concentric muscle strength and no changes in hamstring eccentric muscle strength (ES = −0.02/0.11). Thus, in contrast to the CG (ES = −0.27/0.14), the EG showed an almost certain increase in the hamstring/quadriceps strength functional ratio (ES = 0.32/0.75). Moreover, the CG showed small magnitude impairments in sprinting performance (ES = −0.35/−0.11). Horizontal mechanical properties of sprint running remained typically unchanged in both groups. These results indicate that a neuromuscular training program can induce positive hamstring strength and maintain sprinting performance, which might help in preventing hamstring strains in football players.
Analysis of the CYC/TB1 class of TCP transcription factors in basal angiosperms and magnoliids
Authors: Horn Stefanie , Pabón‐Mora Natalia , Theuß Vanessa S. , Busch Andrea , Zachgo Sabine
Published: December 2014

Flower monosymmetry contributes to specialized interactions between plants and their insect pollinators. In the magnoliids, flower monosymmetry is exhibited only in the Aristolochiaceae (Piperales). Aristolochia flowers develop a calyx‐derived monosymmetric perianth that enhances pollination success by a flytrap mechanism. Aristolochia arborea forms additionally a special perianth outgrowth that mimics a mushroom to attract flies, the mushroom mimicry structure (MMS). In core eudicots, members of the CYC2 clade of TCP transcription factors are key regulators of corolla monosymmetry establishment. The CYC2 clade arose via core eudicot‐specific duplications from ancestral CYC/TB1 genes. CYC/TB1 genes are also thought to affect monosymmetry formation in early diverging eudicot and monocot species. Here, we demonstrate that CYC/TB1 genes, named CYC‐like genes (CYCL) are present in basal angiosperms and magnoliids. Expression analyses in A. arborea indicate that CYCL genes participate in perianth and MMS differentiation processes and do not support a CYCL gene function in initial flower monosymmetry formation. Heterologous CYCL and CYC2 gene overexpression studies in Arabidopsis show that Aristolochia CYCL proteins only perform a CYC2‐like function when the CYCL TCP domain is replaced by a CYC2 domain. Comparative TCP domain analyses revealed that an LxxLL motif, known to mediate protein–protein interactions, evolved in the second helix of the TCP domain in the CYC2 lineage and contributes to CYC2‐related functions. Our data imply that divergent evolution of the CYC/TB1 lineages caused significant changes in their coding regions, which together with cis‐regulatory changes established the key CYC2 function in regulating eudicot flower monosymmetry.
Susceptibility toVerticillium longisporumis linked to monoterpene production byTPS23/27 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Roos Jonas , Bejai Sarosh , Mozūraitis Raimondas , Dixelius Christina
Published: December 2014

The fungusVerticillium longisporumis a soil‐borne plant pathogen of increasing economic importance, and information on plant responses to it is limited. To identify the genes and components involved in the early stages of infection, transcripts in roots ofV. longisporum‐challenged Arabidopsis Col‐0 and the susceptibleNON‐RACE SPECIFIC DISEASE RESISTANCE1(ndr1‐1) mutant were compared usingATH1 gene chips. The analysis revealed altered transcript levels of several terpene biosynthesis genes, including the monoterpene synthaseTPS23/27. When transgenic35S:TPS23/27andTPS23/27‐amiRNAplants were monitored the over‐expresser line showed enhanced fungal colonization whereas the silenced genotype was indistinguishable from Col‐0. Transcript analysis of terpene biosynthesis genes suggested that only theTPS23/27pathway is affected in the two transgenic genotypes. To confirm changes in monoterpene production, emitted volatiles were determined using solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Levels of all identified TPS23/27 monoterpene products were significantly altered in the transgenic plants. A stimulatory effect on conidial germination and hyphal growth ofV. longisporumwas also seen in co‐cultivation with35S:TPS23/27plants and upon exposure to 1,8‐cineole, the main product ofTPS23/27. Methyl jasmonate treatments ofmyc2‐1andmyc2‐2mutants and analysis ofTPS23/27:uidAin themyc2‐2background suggested a dependence on jasmonic acid mediated by the transcription factorMYC2. Taken together, our results show thatTPS23/27‐produced monoterpenes stimulate germination and subsequent invasion ofV. longisporumin Arabidopsis roots.
Accumulation of the NON‐YELLOW COLORING 1 protein of the chlorophyll cycle requires chlorophyll b in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Jia Ting , Ito Hisashi , Hu Xueyun , Tanaka Ayumi
Published: December 2014

Chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b are interconverted in the chlorophyll cycle. The initial step in the conversion of chlorophyll b to chlorophyll a is catalyzed by the chlorophyll b reductases NON‐YELLOW COLORING 1 (NYC1) and NYC1‐like (NOL), which convert chlorophyll b to 7‐hydroxymethyl chlorophyll a. This step is also the first stage in the degradation of the light‐harvesting chlorophyll a/b protein complex (LHC). In this study, we examined the effect of chlorophyll b on the level of NYC1. NYC1 mRNA and NYC1 protein were in low abundance in green leaves, but their levels increased in response to dark‐induced senescence. When the level of chlorophyll b was enhanced by the introduction of a truncated chlorophyllide a oxygenase gene and the leaves were incubated in the dark, the amount of NYC1 was greatly increased compared with that of the wild type; however, the amount of NYC1 mRNA was the same as in the wild type. In contrast, NYC1 did not accumulate in the mutant without chlorophyll b, even though the NYC1 mRNA level was high after incubation in the dark. Quantification of the LHC protein showed no strong correlation between the levels of NYC1 and LHC proteins. However, the level of chlorophyll fluorescence of the dark adapted plant (Fo) was closely related to the accumulation of NYC1, suggesting that the NYC1 level is related to the energetically uncoupled LHC. These results and previous reports on the degradation of chlorophyllide a oxygenase suggest that the a feedforward and feedback network is included in chlorophyll cycle.
Development, validation and genetic analysis of a large soybean SNP genotyping array
Authors: Lee Yun‐Gyeong , Jeong Namhee , Kim Ji Hong , Lee Kwanghee , Kim Kil Hyun , Pirani Ali , Ha Bo‐Keun , Kang Sung‐Taeg , Park Beom‐Seok , Moon Jung‐Kyung , Kim Namshin , Jeong Soon‐Chun
Published: December 2014

Cultivated soybean (Glycine max) suffers from a narrow germplasm relative to other crop species, probably because of under‐use of wild soybean (Glycine soja) as a breeding resource. Use of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping array is a promising method for dissecting cultivated and wild germplasms to identify important adaptive genes through high‐density genetic mapping and genome‐wide association studies. Here we describe a large soybean SNP array for use in diversity analyses, linkage mapping and genome‐wide association analyses. More than four million high‐quality SNPs identified from high‐depth genome re‐sequencing of 16 soybean accessions and low‐depth genome re‐sequencing of 31 soybean accessions were used to select 180 961 SNPs for creation of the Axiom® SoyaSNP array. Validation analysis for a set of 222 diverse soybean lines showed that 170 223 markers were of good quality for genotyping. Phylogenetic and allele frequency analyses of the validation set data indicated that accessions showing an intermediate morphology between cultivated and wild soybeans collected in Korea were natural hybrids. More than 90 unanchored scaffolds in the current soybean reference sequence were assigned to chromosomes using this array. Finally, dense average spacing and preferential distribution of the SNPs in gene‐rich chromosomal regions suggest that this array may be suitable for genome‐wide association studies of soybean germplasm. Taken together, these results suggest that use of this array may be a powerful method for soybean genetic analyses relating to many aspects of soybean breeding.
Do leukoreduction filters passively reduce the transmission risk of human granulocytic anaplasmosis?
Authors: Proctor Melanie C. , Leiby David A.
Published: December 2014

Background

Human granulocytic anaplasmosis, caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, poses an increasing public health risk in the United States. Since 2000, case reports have increased annually; 2782 cases were reported in 2013. Despite the increasing frequency of clinical cases, only eight cases of transfusion‐transmitted anaplasmosis (TTA) have been reported. We investigated if current leukoreduction practices impact transfusion risk.

Study Design and Methods

Whole blood units (WBUs) with integral red blood cell (RBC) leukoreduction filters were collected and spiked with A. phagocytophilum–infected HL‐60 cells equivalent to 0.01, 1, or 5% of total neutrophils. After 24 hours at 4°C WBUs were processed into plasma and RBCs, the latter subsequently leukoreduced (LR RBCs). To evaluate the removal of A. phagocytophilum by filtration, pre‐ and postfiltration samples were compared by culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Compared to Day 0 or Day 1 positive controls, LR RBCs demonstrated reduced levels of A. phagocytophilum by culture and PCR. At 0.01% infection levels LR RBCs yielded no positive cultures and a log reduction of 2.5 by PCR. Similarly, at 1 and 5% infections levels, LR RBCs produced only 44% (4/9) and 56% (5/9) positive cultures, respectively. PCR results were comparable, 3.0 log reduction for 1% and 3.3 log reduction for 5% infection levels.

Conclusions

The recent increase in TTA suggests that A. phagocytophilum may represent an emerging blood safety issue. However, the current study indicates that the widespread practice of leukoreduction might passively reduce, but not eliminate, TTA risk. In the absence of viable testing or pathogen inactivation and/or reduction options, leukoreduction may offer some protection from transmission risk.
Validity of aqueocentesis as a component of anterior uveitis investigation in dogs and cats
Authors: Linn‐Pearl Rose N. , Powell Roger M. , Newman Hayley A. , Gould David J.
Published: December 2014

Objective

To describe aqueocentesis cytopathology results from dogs and cats presenting for uveitis investigation and to determine whether this is a useful and safe procedure.

Animal Studied

Dogs and cats presenting for investigation of anterior uveitis (April 2008–December 2013).

Procedures

Aqueous was collected via limbal entry under sedation/general anesthesia, for cytopathology and occasionally bacterial culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Further workup included blood testing (hematology, biochemistry, and serology), diagnostic imaging, nonocular cytopathology, and available histopathology.

Results

Fifty‐six dogs and 39 cats were included in the study. An aqueous cytopathologic diagnosis of lymphoma (or discrete cell neoplasia) was made in six dogs and seven cats, and a diagnosis of large cell carcinoma made in one dog. This diagnosis of lymphoma was confirmed by ocular histopathology in two dogs and one cat; nonocular cytopathology corroborated lymphoma in another three dogs and five cats. Lymphoma was not evident on aqueous cytopathology but confirmed on nonocular histopathology in two dogs and by cytopathology in one cat. Additionally, aqueous cytopathology in three cats suggested, but was not considered diagnostic of, lymphoma; one of these cats had a confirmatory diagnosis of lymphoma on subsequent clinical investigation. Aqueous humor cytopathology alone was not diagnostic in non‐neoplastic anterior uveitis cases, but supplemented the clinical picture with other systemic diagnostic tests. No clinically important complications were reported in association with aqueocentesis.

Conclusions

Aqueocentesis is performed readily with minimal risk. The results were primarily useful in aiding a diagnosis of lymphoma in both dogs and cats.
Impact of increasing sample volume from 4 ml to 8 ml on bacterial detection rates in apheresis platelets: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Bruhn R. , Custer B. , Vanderpool S. , Townsend M. , Kamel H. , Tomasulo P.
Published: December 2014

Some blood centres have increased sample volume of in‐process cultures to improve detection of bacterial contamination when screening apheresis platelet units. We performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate extant published North American data comparing apheresis platelet bacterial contamination rates from 4 ml and 8 ml sample volume. Pooled results indicate an 8 ml sample volume yields higher true‐positive rates than 4 ml resulting in a significant increase in the detection rate and interdiction of contaminated units, which should contribute to reduced risk of adverse transfusion outcomes.
Presence of medication taken by blood donors in plasma for transfusion
Authors: van Tilborgh‐de Jong A. J. W. , Wiersum‐Osselton J. C. , Touw D. J. , Schipperus M. R.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objectives

The TRIP national hemovigilance and biovigilance office receives reports on side‐effects and incidents associated with transfusion of labile blood products. Anaphylactic reactions accounted for the largest number of serious transfusion reactions in the period 2008–2012. In most cases, no cause is found for these reactions. TRIP data show that anaphylactic reactions occur relatively frequently with transfusion of plasma or platelet concentrates. Data from blood services show that 10% or more of plasma donors regularly use medication which is permitted under donation guidelines. It is conceivable that medication taken by the donor in plasma for transfusion could cause an anaphylactic transfusion reaction in the recipient. This exploratory study investigated the presence of drugs or drug metabolites in donor plasma.

Materials and Methods

Samples (5 ml) were taken from thawed, quarantine fresh frozen plasma units (FFP) which had to be rejected for transfusion because of leaks or length of time after thawing. The samples were analysed for approximately 1000 drugs and drug metabolites using a toxicological screening method.

Results

Eighty‐seven samples were analysed. Toxicological screening was positive in fourteen samples (16%). In eleven samples, one substance was found, and in three samples, the presence of two or three drugs was detected.

Conclusion

After freezing, storage and thawing of fresh FFP, it is possible to detect medication taken by the donor. Further investigation is recommended to analyse whether donors' medication in plasma can be implicated in some cases of allergic or anaphylactic reactions in transfusion recipients.
Riboflavin and amotosalen photochemical treatments of platelet concentrates reduce thrombus formation kinetics in vitro
Authors: Van Aelst B. , Feys H. B. , Devloo R. , Vanhoorelbeke K. , Vandekerckhove P. , Compernolle V.
Published: December 2014

Background

Photochemical treatment (PCT) of platelet concentrates using photosensitizers and ultraviolet light illumination reduces the proliferation potential of pathogens by damaging biomolecules.

Materials and Methods

The impact of riboflavin (RF‐PRT)‐ and amotosalen (AS‐PCT)‐based pathogen inactivation on platelets was studied using microfluidic flow chambers on immobilized collagen using standard platelet concentrates prepared from buffy coats in additive solution. Flow cytometry, metabolic parameters and light transmission aggregometry with thrombin‐related peptide, collagen and ristocetin were determined concurrently.

Results

Both PCTs significantly decreased the platelet surface coverage kinetics in flow chambers over the course of the 7‐day study. Platelet aggregation was affected following RF‐PRT in response to all agonists, while AS‐PCT mainly impacted low‐dose ristocetin agglutination. RF‐PRT induces premature platelet activation because integrin αIIbβ3 was spontaneously activated, and α‐degranulation, phosphatidylserine/‐ethanolamine exposure and anaerobic metabolism significantly increased following treatment, which was not the case for AS‐PCT. On the other hand, AS‐PCT significantly diminished thrombus growth onto von Willebrand factor under shear flow. This defect was caused by fewer integrin αIIbβ3 interactions, not by defective GPIbα‐VWF binding as shown by adhesion experiments in the presence of tirofiban. Moreover, integrin αIIbβ3 activation was also affected following the activation of platelets via GPVI‐FcγRIIa or PAR1. Finally, amotosalen illumination as such is sufficient to induce platelet damage, with no additional measurable effect of the chemical adsorption step. Gamma irradiation caused no significant difference compared to controls on any time‐point or for any parameter.

Conclusion

Both PCTs significantly reduce thrombus formation rate but by different biochemical mechanisms.
Study of the Apsidal Precession of the Physical Symmetrical Pendulum
Authors: Maya Héctor R. , Diaz Rodolfo A. , Herrera William J.
Published: December 2014

We study the apsidal precession of a physical symmetrical pendulum (PSP) (Allais’ precession) as a generalization of the precession corresponding to the ideal spherical pendulum (ISP) (Airy’s precession). Based on the Hamilton–Jacobi formalism and using the techniques of variation of parameters along with the averaging method, we obtain approximate analytical solutions, in terms of which the motion of both systems admits a simple geometrical description. The method developed in this paper is considerably simpler than the standard one in terms of elliptical functions, and the numerical agreement with the exact solutions is excellent. In addition, the present procedure permits to show clearly the origin of the Airy’s and Allais’ precession, as well as the effect of the spin of the physical pendulum on the Allais’ precession. Further, the method could be extended to the study of the asymmetrical pendulum in which an exact analytical solution is not possible anymore.
Interaction Between an Edge Dislocation and a Crack With Surface Elasticity
Authors: Wang Xu , Schiavone Peter
Published: December 2014

We undertake an analytical study of the interaction of an edge dislocation with a finite crack whose faces are assumed to have separate surface elasticity. The surface elasticity on the faces of the crack is described by a version of the continuum-based surface/interface theory of Gurtin and Murdoch. By using the Green's function method, we obtain a complete exact solution by reducing the problem to three Cauchy singular integrodifferential equations of the first-order, which are solved by means of Chebyshev polynomials and a collocation method. The correctness of the solution is rigorously verified by comparison with existing analytical solutions. Our analysis shows that the stresses and the image force acting on the edge dislocation are size-dependent and that the stresses exhibit both the logarithmic and square root singularities at the crack tips when the surface tension is neglected.
Three-Dimensional Computations of Turbulent Flow in a Turbine-Rotor Passage
Authors: Song B. , Amano R. S. , Sitarama S. , Lin B.
Published: December 2014

Numerical study on a three-dimensional turbulent flow in a turbine-rotor passage is presented in this paper. The standard k-ε model was used for the first phase of the turbulence computations. The computations were further extended by employing the full Reynolds-stress closure model (RSM). The computational results obtained using these models were compared in order to investigate the turbulence effect in the near-wall region. The governing equations in a generalized curvilinear coordinate system are discretized by using the SIMPLEC method with non-staggered grids. The oscillations in pressure and velocity due to non-staggered grids are eliminated by using a special interpolation method. The predicted midspan pressure coefficients using the k-ε model and the RSM are compared with the experimental data. It was shown that the present results obtained by using either model are fairly reasonable. Computations were then extended to cover the entire blade-to-blade flow passage, and the three-dimensional effects on pressure and turbulence kinetic energy were evaluated. It was observed that the two turbulence models predict different results for the turbulence kinetic energy. This variation was identified as being related to some non-isotropic turbulence occurring near the blade surface due to the severe acceleration of the flow. It was thus proven that the models based on the RSM give more realistic predictions for highly turbulent cascade flow computations than a Boussinesq viscosity model.