bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feature Biases in Early Word Learning: Network Distinctiveness Predicts Age of Acquisition
Authors: Engelthaler Tomas , Hills Thomas T.
Published: February 2016

Do properties of a word's features influence the order of its acquisition in early word learning? Combining the principles of mutual exclusivity and shape bias, the present work takes a network analysis approach to understanding how feature distinctiveness predicts the order of early word learning. Distance networks were built from nouns with edge lengths computed using various distance measures. Feature distinctiveness was computed as a distance measure, showing how far an object in a network is from other objects based on shared and non‐shared features. Feature distinctiveness predicted order of acquisition across all measures: Words that were further away from other words in the network space were learned earlier. The best distance measures were based only on non‐shared features (object dissimilarity) and did not include shared features (object similarity). This indicates that shared features may play less of a role in early word learning than non‐shared features. In addition, the strongest effects were found for visual form and surface features. Cluster analysis further revealed that this effect is a localized effect in the object feature space, where objects' distances from their cluster centroid were inversely correlated with their age of acquisition. Together, these results suggest a role for feature distinctiveness in early word learning.
Narrow‐band imaging (NBI) magnifying endoscopic classification of colorectal tumors proposed by the Japan NBI Expert Team
Authors: Sano Yasushi , Tanaka Shinji , Kudo Shin‐ei , Saito Shoichi , Matsuda Takahisa , Wada Yoshiki , Fujii Takahiro , Ikematsu Hiroaki , Uraoka Toshio , Kobayashi Nozomu , Nakamura Hisashi , Hotta Kinichi , Horimatsu Takahiro , Sakamoto Naoto , Fu Kuang‐I , Tsuruta Osamu , Kawano Hiroshi , Kashida Hiroshi , Takeuchi Yoji , Machida Hirohisa , Kusaka Toshihiro , Yoshida Naohisa , Hirata Ichiro , Terai Takeshi , Yamano Hiro‐o , Kaneko Kazuhiro , Nakajima Takeshi , Sakamoto Taku , Yamaguchi Yuichiro , Tamai Naoto , Nakano Naoko , Hayashi Nana , Oka Shiro , Iwatate Mineo , Ishikawa Hideki , Murakami Yoshitaka , Yoshida Shigeaki , Saito Yutaka
Published: February 2016

Many clinical studies on narrow‐band imaging (NBI) magnifying endoscopy classifications advocated so far in Japan (Sano, Hiroshima, Showa, and Jikei classifications) have reported the usefulness of NBI magnifying endoscopy for qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of colorectal lesions. However, discussions at professional meetings have raised issues such as: (i) the presence of multiple terms for the same or similar findings; (ii) the necessity of including surface patterns in magnifying endoscopic classifications; and (iii) differences in the NBI findings in elevated and superficial lesions. To resolve these problems, the Japan NBI Expert Team (JNET) was constituted with the aim of establishing a universal NBI magnifying endoscopic classification for colorectal tumors (JNET classification) in 2011. Consensus was reached on this classification using the modified Delphi method, and this classification was proposed in June 2014. The JNET classification consists of four categories of vessel and surface pattern (i.e. Types 1, 2A, 2B, and 3). Types 1, 2A, 2B, and 3 are correlated with the histopathological findings of hyperplastic polyp/sessile serrated polyp (SSP), low‐grade intramucosal neoplasia, high‐grade intramucosal neoplasia/shallow submucosal invasive cancer, and deep submucosal invasive cancer, respectively.
Density fluctuations represent a key process maintaining personality variation in a wild passerine bird
Authors: Nicolaus Marion , Tinbergen Joost M. , Ubels Richard , Both Christiaan , Dingemanse Niels J.
Published: February 2016

Heritable personality variation is subject to fluctuating selection in many animal taxa; a major unresolved question is why this is the case. A parsimonious explanation must involve a general ecological process: a likely candidate is the omnipresent spatiotemporal variation in conspecific density. We tested whether spatiotemporal variation in density within and among nest box plots of great tits (Parus major) predicted variation in selection acting on exploratory behaviour (n = 48 episodes of selection). We found viability selection favouring faster explorers under lower densities but slower explorers under higher densities. Temporal variation in local density represented the primary factor explaining personality‐related variation in viability selection. Importantly, birds did not anticipate changes in selection by means of adaptive density‐dependent plasticity. This study thereby provides an unprecedented example of the key importance of the interplay between fluctuating selection and lack of adaptive behavioural plasticity in maintaining animal personality variation in the wild.
NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) enzyme activation in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Marrali G. , Salamone P. , Casale F. , Fuda G. , Cugnasco P. , Caorsi C. , Amoroso A. , Calvo A. , Lopiano L. , Cocito D. , Chiò A.
Published: February 2016

Background and purpose

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an acquired immunomediated condition affecting the peripheral nervous system where probably macrophages are the primary effector cells for demyelination. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), catalyzed by the NOX family of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase enzymes, can induce peroxidation and are potentially injurious to myelin. Our aim was to assess the activity of NOX2, an isoform of NOX, in a series of CIDP patients and to analyze the effect of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) on NOX2.

Methods

Thirty CIDP patients treated with IVIg and 30 control subjects were enrolled. To evaluate NOX2 activity, neutrophil and monocyte oxidative burst was measured directly in fresh whole blood using the Phagoburst™ assay, a fluorescence‐activated cell sorting method. The mean fluorescence intensity, emitted in response to different stimuli, leads to the production of ROS and corresponds to the percentage of oxidizing cells and their enzymatic activity.

Results

Mean fluorescence intensity values for granulocyte and monocyte burst in patients (mean 633.3, SD 191; mean 111.8, SD 28.5) were different from those measured in healthy controls (granulocytes, mean 436.6, SD 137.0, P = 0.0003; monocytes, mean 78.2, SD 17.3, P = 0.000001). Moreover, IVIg administration increased both granulocyte (P = 0.005) and monocyte (P = 0.0009) burst.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that oxidative burst is significantly increased in CIDP patients and that treatment with IVIg enhances oxidative values, thus representing a possible IVIg therapeutic effect linked to a regulatory effect of ROS. Based on this, the development of treatments targeting the specific activation of NOX may be beneficial in autoimmune disorders.
Causes of pleural effusions in horses resident in the UK
Authors: Johns I. , Marr C. , Durham A. , Mair T. , McParland T.
Published: February 2016

Pleural effusions (PE) reportedly occur most commonly secondary to bacterial pneumonia with neoplastic effusions contributing a minority of cases. The majority of reports originate from the USA and Australia, where long distance transport of horses, a recognised risk factor, may occur more frequently than in the UK. Anecdotally, a greater proportion of horses with PE are diagnosed with neoplasia in the UK than has been reported. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the causes of PE in horses in the UK, and to identify markers that can help differentiate between septic and neoplastic causes of PE. Medical records from 4 equine hospitals in the UK were searched for horses diagnosed with PE. Information recorded included case background, admission physical examination and biochemical findings, and characteristics of the effusion (volume, cell count, total protein [TP] concentration). A total of 69 horses were identified, with 26 (38%) diagnosed with a neoplastic effusion. The remainder were categorised as septic, including 14/43 (32.5%) that had a history of international transport. Horses with septic effusions were significantly younger (8 vs. 13 years; P = 0.001) and had significantly smaller volumes of pleural fluid drained at admission (9.8 l vs. 32.2 l; P<0.001). Horses with septic PE had a significantly higher rectal temperature (38.6°C vs. 38.2°C; P = 0.03), fibrinogen concentration (7.8 g/l vs. 5.3 g/l; P = 0.01) and serum amyloid A concentration (230 mg/l vs. 59 mg/l; P = 0.02) than those with neoplastic effusions. Significantly higher pleural fluid cell count and TP concentration were identified in horses with septic PE (63.9 × 109/l vs. 8.6 × 109/l; P<0.001; 57.5 g/l vs. 35.9 g/l; P = 0.04). These results suggest that in the UK, neoplastic effusions account for a greater proportion of PE than previously reported. A large volume of PE in an older horse with a low cell count and relatively low TP concentration should increase the index of suspicion of neoplasia.
Estimation of the nutritional parameters of various types of wheat flours using fluorescence spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Ahmad M. Haseeb , Nache Marius , Hinrichs Jörg , Hitzmann Bernd
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential of fluorescence spectroscopy to predict the nutritional parameters of twenty‐six commercially available wheat flours from different vendors. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to clearly identify the correlations among different types of flours. A partial least square regression (PLSR) model gives a good prediction for moisture, fat and carbohydrates using cross‐validation, with a R2 of 0.86, 0.88 and 0.89 respectively. However, the protein, sucrose and salt contents showed little correlation in PLSR. Locally weighted regression (LWR) provides a significant improvement in the prediction of all of the nutritional parameters. The error decreases with an increasing R2 to 0.96, 0.93, 0.99, 0.98, 0.99, 0.88, 0.95 and 0.99 for the energetic value, protein, fat, moisture, carbohydrate, sucrose, salt and saturated fatty acid contents respectively, for different wheat flours. Hence, fluorescence, which is a non‐invasive and rapid method, can be used to evaluate the nutritional parameters of different types of wheat flours.
Using a polynomial model for fungi from table olives
Authors: Fuccio Francesca , Bevilacqua Antonio , Sinigaglia Milena , Corbo Maria Rosaria
Published: February 2016

Table olives are one of the most important fermented vegetables in the food industry because of their worldwide economic importance. Enterobacteriaceae, lactic acid bacteria and yeasts are among the most relevant microorganisms involved in olive fermentation determining safety, quality and flavour of the final product. Fungi can play a double role during table olive processing acting as spoilage or desirable microorganisms. This article addresses the effects of some factors (pH, NaCl, temperature, phenols) on the growth/survival of yeasts and moulds, both some wild isolates from olive brine and some yeasts from a public collection (Pichia guilliermondii, P. holstii, Wickerhamomyces anomalus). The research was divided into two steps: a 1st step was aimed at assessing fungal growth by evaluating separately each factor; in a 2nd step, NaCl, pH and temperature were combined through a simple DoE (design of experiment). For this last step, W. anomalus and P. guilliermondii were used as test fungi. Generally, fungi were not inhibited either by temperature, salt or acidic/alkaline pHs. Moreover, the approach of DoE pinpointed that the effect of some factors could experience a shift and change over the time.
Flash Spark Plasma Sintering (FSPS) of α and β SiC
Authors: Grasso Salvatore , Saunders Theo , Porwal Harshit , Milsom Ben , Tudball Adam , Reece Mike
Published: February 2016

A novel processing methodology that allows combined preheating and Flash‐SPS (FSPS) of silicon carbide‐based materials has been developed. Beta‐SiC (+10 wt% B4C) powders were densified (Ф 20 mm) up to 96% of their theoretical density in 17 s under an applied pressure of 16 MPa (5 kN). The flash event was attributed to the sharp positive temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity (thermal runaway) of SiC, and a sudden increase in electric power absorption (Joule heating) of the samples after a sufficient preheating temperature (>600°C) was reached. The microstructural evolution was analyzed by examining materials densified by FSPS in the range of 82%–96% theoretical densities. FEM modeling results suggest that the FSPS heating rate was of the order of 8800°C/min. A comparative analysis was done between FSPS and reference samples (sintered using conventional SPS in the temperature range of 1800°C–2300°C). This allowed for a better understanding of the temperatures generated during FSPS, and in turn the sintering mechanisms. We also demonstrated the scalability of the FSPS process by consolidating a large α‐SiC disk (Ф 60 mm) in about 60 s inside a hybrid SPS furnace equipped with an induction heater, which allowed us to achieve sufficient preheating (1600°C) of the material to achieve FSPS.
Colchicine modulates calcium homeostasis and electrical property of HL‐1 cells
Authors: Lu Yen‐Yu , Chen Yao‐Chang , Kao Yu‐Hsun , Lin Yung‐Kuo , Yeh Yung‐Hsin , Chen Shih‐Ann , Chen Yi‐Jen
Published: February 2016

Colchicine is a microtubule disruptor that reduces the occurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after an operation or ablation. However, knowledge of the effects of colchicine on atrial myocytes is limited. The aim of this study was to determine if colchicine can regulate calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis and attenuate the electrical effects of the extracellular matrix on atrial myocytes. Whole‐cell clamp, confocal microscopy with fluorescence, and western blotting were used to evaluate the action potential and ionic currents of HL‐1 cells treated with and without (control) colchicine (3 nM) for 24 hrs. Compared with control cells, colchicine‐treated HL‐1 cells had a longer action potential duration with smaller intracellular Ca2+ transients and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ content by 10% and 47%, respectively. Colchicine‐treated HL‐1 cells showed a smaller L‐type Ca2+ current, reverse mode sodium–calcium exchanger (NCX) current and transient outward potassium current than control cells, but had a similar ultra‐rapid activating outward potassium current and apamin‐sensitive small‐conductance Ca2+‐activated potassium current compared with control cells. Colchicine‐treated HL‐1 cells expressed less SERCA2a, total, Thr17‐phosphorylated phospholamban, Cav1.2, CaMKII, NCX, Kv1.4 and Kv1.5, but they expressed similar levels of the ryanodine receptor, Ser16‐phosphorylated phospholamban and Kv4.2. Colchicine attenuated the shortening of the collagen‐induced action potential duration in HL‐1 cells. These findings suggest that colchicine modulates the atrial electrical activity and Ca2+ regulation and attenuates the electrical effects of collagen, which may contribute to its anti‐AF activity.
Involuntary Public Policy‐making by For‐Profit Professionals: European Lawyers on Anti‐Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing
Authors: Helgesson Karin Svedberg , Mörth Ulrika
Published: February 2016

EU directives on AML (anti‐money laundering)/CTF (counter‐terrorism financing) entail involuntary public policy‐making by for‐profit professionals on politically sensitive issues. This raises fundamental questions on the role of private actors in public policy‐making apart from their roles as lobbyists and contractors. From a democratic perspective, the involuntary public policy‐making by European lawyers is particularly problematic as it involves guardians of the rule of law who, we argue, are simultaneously forced to act as agents of the state. In the case of AML/CTF, lawyers are within the political system rather than outside it. We show that expectations concerning how lawyers are to work closely with the state in the United Kingdom and Sweden differ, and that the policy‐making styles lawyers apply in practice were either ‘pragmatic’ (UK) or ‘evasive’ (Sweden). Our findings provide a first step in understanding the new role of for‐profit professionals as involuntary public policy‐makers, and its possible effects.
Oviposition and feeding avoidance in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) against transgenic Bt cotton
Authors: Zhao D. , Zalucki M. P. , Guo R. , Fang Z. , Shen W. , Zhang L. , Liu B.
Published: February 2016

Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), the major target pest of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton, remains susceptible to Bt cotton in China at present. Behavioural avoidance by ovipositing females might lead to reduced exposure to Bt cotton and minimize selection for physiological resistance. We examined the behavioural responses of H. armigera to Bt and non‐Bt cottons to determine whether behavioural avoidance to Bt cotton may be present. In oviposition choice tests, the number of eggs on non‐Bt cotton plants was significantly higher than on Bt cotton plants. Similarly, in no‐choice tests, Bt cotton plants attracted significantly fewer eggs compared with non‐Bt cotton plants. H. armigera neonates showed higher dispersal and lower establishment on Bt cotton than on non‐Bt cotton. First instars were found to feed consistently on non‐Bt cotton leaves, creating large feeding holes, but only produced tiny feeding holes on Bt cotton leaves. The H. armigera population used in this study showed avoidance of oviposition and feeding on Bt cotton. Our results provide important insights into one possible mechanism underlying the durability of Bt cotton resistance and may be useful for improving strategies to sustain the effectiveness of Bt crops.
Shade Correspondence, Color, and Translucency Differences between Human Dentine and a CAD/CAM Hybrid Ceramic System
Authors: Pop‐Ciutrila Ioana‐Sofia , Dudea Diana , Eugenia Badea Mândra , Moldovan Mărioara , Cîmpean Sanda Ileana , Ghinea Razvan
Published: February 2016

Objective

To determine the shade correspondence between human dentine and two versions of a CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic system and to investigate color and translucency differences between these materials.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four samples of different shades and opacities were fabricated from Vita Enamic CAD/CAM ceramic blocks. Human dentine samples were obtained from 73 extracted maxillary teeth. Color coordinates of all samples were measured using VitaEasyshade spectrophotometer. The translucency parameter (TP) and
and
color differences, with respect to human dentine of anterior and posterior teeth, were calculated.

Results

Vita Enamic Translucent was the best match for anterior teeth (>90% of cases) while Vita Enamic T 3M2 was the best option for the dentine samples of posterior teeth in 78.8% (
) and 54.5% (
) of the cases. The smallest differences in translucency (
) with the dentine samples of anterior teeth were obtained for Vita Enamic T 3M2 (92.5%) and with those of posterior teeth for Vita Enamic HT 1M2 (45.4%).

Conclusions

VITA Enamic Translucent is the best option as color match for both anterior and posterior teeth dentine. In terms of translucency, VITA Enamic Translucent closely matched anterior teeth dentine while for posterior teeth, VITA Enamic HT was the best option.

Clinical Significance

The results of the present study could help clinicians in their decision of choosing a specific shade and translucency for their anterior or posterior esthetic restorations with hybrid ceramics. (J Esthet Restor Dent 28:S46–S55, 2016)
Dose–response relationship between intensity of exercise and cognitive performance in individuals with Down syndrome: a preliminary study
Authors: Chen C.‐C. (J. J.) , Ringenbach S. D. R.
Published: February 2016

Background

Cognitive performance has been shown to be relevant to the early onset of Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome. This study was aimed at investigating the dose–response relationship between acute exercise intensity and cognitive performance in this population.

Methods

In the current study, we measured information processing speed and two aspects of executive function (i.e. attention shifting and inhibitory control). Participants were assigned to high‐intensity exercise (i.e. 75–85% of predicted maximum heart rate) (N = 6), moderate‐intensity exercise (i.e. 50–75% of predicted maximum heart rate) (N = 6) or attentional control (N = 6) groups. Two exercise groups walked on a treadmill using an incremental intensity walking protocol, and the attentional control group watched a video for 20 min. Measures of information processing speed and executive function were tested pre‐intervention and post‐intervention.

Results

Our results indicated that the performance in choice reaction time test was impaired in the high‐intensity exercise, whereas improved performance was observed in the moderate‐intensity exercise. However, moderate‐intensity and high‐intensity exercises were beneficial for inhibitory control aspect of executive function. Further, inconsistent with previous studies, a quadric trend was seen in information processing speed, and a liner trend was evident in inhibitory control.

Conclusions

Future research is needed to examine with a larger sample size, and more physiological measures are necessary to explore the underlying mechanisms in the relationship between exercise intensity and cognitive performance in individuals with Down syndrome.
Hippocampal metabotropic glutamate receptor long‐term depression in health and disease: focus on mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways
Authors: Sanderson Thomas M. , Hogg Ellen L. , Collingridge Graham L. , Corrêa Sonia A. L.
Published: February 2016

Group I metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) dependent long‐term depression (LTD) is a major form of synaptic plasticity underlying learning and memory. The molecular mechanisms involved in mGluR‐LTD have been investigated intensively for the last two decades. In this 60th anniversary special issue article, we review the recent advances in determining the mechanisms that regulate the induction, transduction and expression of mGluR‐LTD in the hippocampus, with a focus on the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. In particular we discuss the requirement of p38 MAPK and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) activation. The recent advances in understanding the signaling cascades regulating mGluR‐LTD are then related to the cognitive impairments observed in neurological disorders, such as fragile X syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.

image

mGluR‐LTD is a form of synaptic plasticity that impacts on memory formation. In the hippocampus mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) have been found to be important in mGluR‐LTD. In this 60th anniversary special issue article, we review the independent and complementary roles of two classes of MAPK, p38 and ERK1/2 and link this to the aberrant mGluR‐LTD that has an important role in diseases.

This article is part of the 60th Anniversary special issue.
Firing Costs and Capital Structure Decisions
Authors: SERFLING MATTHEW
Published: February 2016

I exploit the adoption of state‐level labor protection laws as an exogenous increase in employee firing costs to examine how the costs associated with discharging workers affect capital structure decisions. I find that firms reduce debt ratios following the adoption of these laws, with this result stronger for firms that experience larger increases in firing costs. I also document that, following the adoption of these laws, a firm's degree of operating leverage rises, earnings variability increases, and employment becomes more rigid. Overall, these results are consistent with higher firing costs crowding out financial leverage via increasing financial distress costs.
Effect of conventional diet schedule, early feeding and early feeding plus domperidone on postcesarean diet tolerance: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nantasupha Chalaithorn , Ruengkhachorn Irene , Ruangvutilert Pornpimol
Published: February 2016

Aim

To compare time to regular diet tolerance among conventional schedule, early oral feeding and early oral feeding plus domperidone in postcesarean women and to investigate these protocols on other aspects of postoperative well‐being.

Methods

During July 2014 to June 2015, 120 postcesarean women were randomly assigned to three groups. Group A, conventional schedule: women fasted for 18–24 h postoperatively, then sipped water, had a liquid diet, soft diet, and regular diet, consecutively. Group B, early oral feeding: women started sipping water at 3–8 h postoperatively, followed by a soft and then a regular diet. Group C consumed the same as group B, plus domperidone.

Results

Median time to regular diet tolerance was 52.3 (50.8–54.7), 28.5 (24.8–31.4), and 29.6 (26.5–44.8) h (P < 0.001) in groups A, B and C, respectively. The two early feeding groups had significantly earlier ambulation and shorter hospitalization compared with the control. There were no differences between the two early feeding groups. The rate of postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, pain scores and patients' satisfaction scores were similar among the three groups.

Conclusion

Early oral feeding does not significantly increase postoperative complications; however, is associated with earlier regular diet intake. Apparently, domperidone does not enhance postoperative gastrointestinal function.
Lifelong benefits on myocardial infarction mortality: 40‐year follow‐up of the randomized Oslo diet and antismoking study
Authors: Holme I. , Retterstøl K. , Norum K. R. , Hjermann I.
Published: February 2016

Background

The effects of saturated fat on atherosclerotic vascular disease are currently debated.

Objectives

In the Oslo cardiovascular study initiated in 1972/1973, a 5‐year randomized intervention was conducted in healthy middle‐aged men at high risk of coronary heart disease to compare the effects on coronary heart disease incidence of diet and antismoking advice versus control (no intervention). A significant reduction (47%) in first myocardial infarction incidence was observed. We have followed mortality up to 40 years to establish whether a lifelong benefit on mortality risk of myocardial infarction could be observed.

Methods

In the present study, a total of 16 203 men (63% of those invited), aged 40–49 years, participated in a screening examination. Overall, 1232 men with total serum cholesterol levels of 6.9–8.9 mmol L−1 (80% smokers) were included in the study. The dietary intervention consisted of mainly decreasing the intake of saturated fats and increasing fish and vegetable products, as well as weight reduction in overweight subjects. Smokers were advised to stop smoking. Cox regression analysis was used for statistical analyses.

Results

The intervention group showed a sustained reduced risk of death at first myocardial infarction (hazard ratio 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.51–1.00; P = 0.049), compared to control subjects up to 40 years. During follow‐up, the beneficial effect developed gradually but proportionally up to about 15 years after randomization. Later, the curves were parallel. All‐cause mortality decreased in the period 8–20 years after randomization, but not thereafter.

Conclusions

Receiving advice about a healthy lifestyle led to a long‐term reduced risk of coronary mortality during the following 40 years. Our results suggest that systematically providing effective counselling for a healthy lifestyle for 5 years can lead to lifelong benefits.
Genetic Analysis and Molecular Mapping of a Stripe Rust Resistance Gene in Chinese Wheat Differential Guinong 22
Authors: Li Qiang , Ma Dongfang , Li Qian , Fan Yu , Shen Xuexue , Jing Jinxue , Wang Baotong , Kang Zhensheng
Published: February 2016

Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f.sp. tritici (Pst), is one of the most damaging diseases of wheat worldwide, especially in China. Growing resistant cultivars is the most effective approach to control the disease, but few effective resistance genes are available. Guinong 22, one of the wheat cultivars used for differentiated Chinese race of the pathogen, has unknown resistance gene(s) to stripe rust. Genetic analysis, molecular mapping and allelic analysis were used in this study to determine the inheritance and chromosomal location of the gene(s) in Guinong 22 with the most prevalent Pst race CYR33. Genetic analysis indicated that a single recessive gene yrGn22 confers the resistance to CYR33. A total of 450 simple sequence repeat (SSR) primer pairs and 31 pairs of sequence‐tagged site (STS) or conserved primers were selected to screen the resistant bulk and susceptible bulk as well as the parents. Seven polymorphic SSR markers and two STS markers were then used to genotype 113 F2 individual plants. Linkage analysis indicated that all nine markers were linked to yrGn22, with genetic distances ranging from 2.2 to 11.1 cM. Based on the chromosomal locations of the linked markers, yrGn22 was located on wheat chromosome 1B near the centromere. The pedigree, common markers, chromosome location, resistance and allelism tests indicated that yrGn22 is either linked to Yr26 or possibly the same gene.
The anti‐lymphoma activity of antiviral therapy in HCV‐associated B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Peveling‐Oberhag J. , Arcaini L. , Bankov K. , Zeuzem S. , Herrmann E.
Published: February 2016

Many epidemiological studies provide solid evidence for an association of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (B‐NHL). However, the most convincing evidence for a causal relationship between HCV infection and lymphoma development is the observation of B‐NHL regression after HCV eradication by antiviral therapy (AVT). We conducted a literature search to identify studies that included patients with HCV‐associated B‐NHL (HCV‐NHL) who received AVT, with the intention to treat lymphoma and viral disease at the same time. The primary end point was the correlation of sustained virological response (SVR) under AVT with lymphoma response. Secondary end points were overall lymphoma response rates and HCV‐NHL response in correlation with lymphoma subtypes. We included 20 studies that evaluated the efficacy of AVT in HCV‐NHL (n = 254 patients). Overall lymphoma response rate through AVT was 73% [95%>confidence interval, (CI) 67–78%]. Throughout studies there was a strong association between SVR and lymphoma response (83% response rate, 95%>CI, 76–88%) compared to a failure in achieving SVR (53% response rate, 95%>CI, 39–67%, P = 0.0002). There was a trend towards favourable response for AVT in HCV‐associated marginal zone lymphomas (response rate 81%, 95%>CI, 74–87%) compared to nonmarginal zone origin (response rate 71%, 95%>CI, 61–79%, P = 0.07). In conclusion, in the current meta‐analysis, the overall response rate of HCV‐NHL under AVT justifies the recommendation for AVT as first‐line treatment in patients who do not need immediate conventional treatment. The strong correlation of SVR and lymphoma regression supports the hypothesis of a causal relationship of HCV and lymphomagenesis.
The expression of miR‐125b‐5p is increased in the serum of patients with chronic hepatitis B infection and inhibits the detection of hepatitis B virus surface antigen
Authors: Ninomiya M. , Kondo Y. , Kimura O. , Funayama R. , Nagashima T. , Kogure T. , Morosawa T. , Tanaka Y. , Nakayama K. , Shimosegawa T.
Published: February 2016

MicroRNAs were first discovered as small endogenousRNAmolecules and some viruses have been reported to interact with host miRNAs. By investigating miRNAexpression in serum derived fromHBV‐infected patients, we have clarified the relationship between miRNAexpression and chronicHBVinfection. Additionally, we demonstrate the use of miRNAs as both novel biomarkers and new therapies againstHBV. We included the sera of 20 patients with chronicHBVinfection, sera of 20 patients withHCVinfection and sera of 10 healthy controls in this study. The miRNAlibraries were sequenced using a 32‐mer single end sequence. The validation study of circulating miRNAin serum was conducted byqRT‐PCR. TheHBVgenomic regions of genotype B and genotype C that were speculated to be targeted by miRNAwere constructed using complementary oligonucleotides in the vectors. Reporter assays were performed 48 h after transfection. The expression levels of 21 miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in the three groups. 10 miRNAs (hsa‐miR‐100‐5p, miR‐125b‐5p, miR‐193b‐3p, miR‐194‐3p, miR‐30a‐3p, miR‐30c‐2‐3p, miR‐3591‐5p, miR‐4709‐3p, miR‐574‐3p and miR‐99a‐5p) were found to be upregulated inCH‐B by deep sequence analysis. The computer analysis showed that two regions ofHBsAg are potential targets of miR‐125b‐5p and miR‐30c‐2‐3p and that these miRNAs may downregulate the expression ofHBV‐S. TheHBVgenotype C segment speculated to be targeted by hsa‐miR‐125b‐5p significantly decreased the expression of the reporter. This study indicated that expression of miR‐125b‐5p was related to the etiology of chronic hepatitis B infection and regulated the expression ofHBsAg.
Impact of small‐quantity lipid‐based nutrient supplement on hemoglobin, iron status and biomarkers of inflammation in pregnant Ghanaian women
Authors: Adu‐Afarwuah Seth , Lartey Anna , Okronipa Harriet , Ashorn Per , Zeilani Mamane , Baldiviez Lacey M. , Oaks Brietta M. , Vosti Stephen , Dewey Kathryn G.
Published: February 2016

We examined hemoglobin (Hb, g/L), iron status (zinc protoporphyrin, ZPP, µmol/mol heme, and transferrin receptor, TfR, mg/L) and inflammation (C‐reactive protein, CRP and alpha‐1 glycoprotein, AGP) in pregnant Ghanaian women who participated in a randomized controlled trial. Women (n = 1320) received either 60 mg Fe + 400‐µg folic acid (IFA); 18 micronutrients including 20‐mg Fe (MMN) or small‐quantity lipid‐based nutrient supplements (SQ‐LNS, 118 kcal/d) with the same micronutrient levels as in MMN, plus four additional minerals (LNS) daily during pregnancy. Intention‐to‐treat analysis included 349, 354 and 354 women in the IFA, MMN and LNS groups, respectively, with overall baseline mean Hb and anemia (Hb <100) prevalence of 112 and 13.3%, respectively. At 36 gestational weeks, overall Hb was 117, and anemia prevalence was 5.3%. Compared with the IFA group, the LNS and MMN groups had lower mean Hb (120 ± 11 vs. 115 ± 12 and 117 ± 12, respectively; P < 0.001), higher mean ZPP (42 ± 30 vs. 50 ± 29 and 49 ± 30; P = 0.010) and TfR (4.0 ± 1.3 vs. 4.9 ± 1.8 and 4.6 ± 1.7; P < 0.001), and greater prevalence of anemia (2.2% vs. 7.9% and 5.8%; P = 0.019), elevated ZPP (>60) [9.4% vs. 18.6% and 19.2%; P = 0.003] and elevated TfR (>6.0) [9.0% vs. 19.2% and 15.1%; P = 0.004]. CRP and AGP concentrations did not differ among groups. We conclude that among pregnant women in a semi‐urban setting in Ghana, supplementation with SQ‐LNS or MMN containing 20 mg iron resulted in lower Hb and iron status but had no impact on inflammation, when compared with iron (60 mg) plus folic acid (400 µg). The amount of iron in such supplements that is most effective for improving both maternal Hb/iron status and birth outcomes requires further evaluation. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as: NCT00970866.
Strategies to increase children's vegetable intake in home and community settings: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Hendrie Gilly A. , Lease Haidee J. , Bowen Jane , Baird Danielle L. , Cox David N.
Published: February 2016

A systematic review was undertaken to identify intervention characteristics associated with increasing consumption of vegetables in children (2–12 years). PubMed, PsychINFO and CABabstracts were used to identify studies published between 2004–2014 that had measures of vegetable consumption, a minimum of 3‐month follow‐up and were conducted in home and community settings (outside of schools). Twenty‐two studies were included in the review. Details of the study design, population, setting, intervention characteristics, target behaviour, behaviour change techniques used and vegetable intake were extracted. Study quality and intensity were scored. Overall, 12/22 studies were effective short‐term, and 6/10 were effective long‐term (6 + months); mean short‐term change in vegetable intake was 29%, equating to an increase of a quarter to a half of a serving of vegetables. Intervention effectiveness was associated with number of settings targeted and frequency of contact but not length of intervention. Planning for social support, vegetable exposure and provision of staff training were commonly used behaviour change techniques in effective interventions. This review has identified strategies that may optimise effectiveness of future home‐based and community‐based interventions aiming to increase vegetable intake in young children.
Two adjacent inversions maintain genomic differentiation between migratory and stationary ecotypes of Atlantic cod
Authors: Kirubakaran Tina Graceline , Grove Harald , Kent Matthew P. , Sandve Simen R. , Baranski Matthew , Nome Torfinn , De Rosa Maria Cristina , Righino Benedetta , Johansen Torild , Otterå Håkon , Sonesson Anna , Lien Sigbjørn , Andersen Øivind
Published: February 2016

Atlantic cod is composed of multiple migratory and stationary populations widely distributed in the North Atlantic Ocean. The Northeast Arctic cod (NEAC) population in the Barents Sea undertakes annual spawning migrations to the northern Norwegian coast. Although spawning occurs sympatrically with the stationary Norwegian coastal cod (NCC), phenotypic and genetic differences between NEAC and NCC are maintained. In this study, we resolve the enigma by revealing the mechanisms underlying these differences. Extended linkage disequilibrium (LD) and population divergence were demonstrated in a 17.4‐Mb region on linkage group 1 (LG1) based on genotypes of 494 SNPs from 192 parents of farmed families of NEAC, NCC or NEACxNCC crosses. Linkage analyses revealed two adjacent inversions within this region that repress meiotic recombination in NEACxNCC crosses. We identified a NEAC‐specific haplotype consisting of 186 SNPs that was fixed in NEAC sampled from the Barents Sea, but segregating under Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in eight NCC stocks. Comparative genomic analyses determine the NEAC configuration of the inversions to be the derived state and date it to ~1.6–2.0 Mya. The haplotype block harbours 763 genes, including candidates regulating swim bladder pressure, haem synthesis and skeletal muscle organization conferring adaptation to long‐distance migrations and vertical movements down to large depths. Our results suggest that the migratory ecotype experiences strong directional selection for the two adjacent inversions on LG1. Despite interbreeding between NEAC and NCC, the inversions are maintaining genetic differentiation, and we hypothesize the co‐occurrence of multiple adaptive alleles forming a ‘supergene’ in the NEAC population.
Divergence in gene expression within and between two closely related flycatcher species
Authors: Uebbing Severin , Künstner Axel , Mäkinen Hannu , Backström Niclas , Bolivar Paulina , Burri Reto , Dutoit Ludovic , Mugal Carina F. , Nater Alexander , Aken Bronwen , Flicek Paul , Martin Fergal J. , Searle Stephen M. J. , Ellegren Hans
Published: February 2016

Relatively little is known about the character of gene expression evolution as species diverge. It is for instance unclear if gene expression generally evolves in a clock‐like manner (by stabilizing selection or neutral evolution) or if there are frequent episodes of directional selection. To gain insights into the evolutionary divergence of gene expression, we sequenced and compared the transcriptomes of multiple organs from population samples of collared (Ficedula albicollis) and pied flycatchers (F. hypoleuca), two species which diverged less than one million years ago. Ordination analysis separated samples by organ rather than by species. Organs differed in their degrees of expression variance within species and expression divergence between species. Variance was negatively correlated with expression breadth and protein interactivity, suggesting that pleiotropic constraints reduce gene expression variance within species. Variance was correlated with between‐species divergence, consistent with a pattern expected from stabilizing selection and neutral evolution. Using an expression PST approach, we identified genes differentially expressed between species and found 16 genes uniquely expressed in one of the species. For one of these, DPP7, uniquely expressed in collared flycatcher, the absence of expression in pied flycatcher could be associated with a ≈20‐kb deletion including 11 of 13 exons. This study of a young vertebrate speciation model system expands our knowledge of how gene expression evolves as natural populations become reproductively isolated.
Structural and biochemical characterization of EDTA monooxygenase and its physical interaction with a partner flavin reductase
Authors: Jun Se‐Young , Lewis Kevin M. , Youn Buhyun , Xun Luying , Kang ChulHee
Published: February 2016

Ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) is currently the most abundant organic pollutant due to its recalcitrance and extensive use. Only a few bacteria can degrade it, using EDTA monooxygenase (EmoA) to initiate the degradation. EmoA is an FMNH2‐dependent monooxygenase that requires an NADH:FMN oxidoreductase (EmoB) to provide FMNH2 as a cosubstrate. Although EmoA has been identified from Chelativorans (ex. Mesorhizobium) sp. BNC1, its catalytic mechanism is unknown. Crystal structures of EmoA revealed a domain‐like insertion into a TIM‐barrel, which might serve as a flexible lid for the active site. Docking of MgEDTA2− into EmoA identified an intricate hydrogen bond network connected to Tyr71, which should potentially lower its pKa. Tyr71, along with nearby Glu70 and a peroxy flavin, facilitates a keto‐enol transition of the leaving acetyl group of EDTA. Further, for the first time, the physical interaction between EmoA and EmoB was observed by ITC, molecular docking and enzyme kinetic assay, which enhanced both EmoA and EmoB activities probably through coupled channelling of FMNH2.
The coat protein of Alfalfa mosaic virus interacts and interferes with the transcriptional activity of the bHLH transcription factor ILR3 promoting salicylic acid‐dependent defence signalling response
Authors: Aparicio Frederic , Pallás Vicente
Published: February 2016

During virus infection, specific viral component–host factor interaction elicits the transcriptional reprogramming of diverse cellular pathways. Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) can establish a compatible interaction in tobacco and Arabidopsis hosts. We show that the coat protein (CP) of AMV interacts directly with transcription factor (TF) ILR3 of both species. ILR3 is a basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) family member of TFs, previously proposed to participate in diverse metabolic pathways. ILR3 has been shown to regulate NEET in Arabidopsis, a critical protein in plant development, senescence, iron metabolism and reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. We show that the AMV CP–ILR3 interaction causes a fraction of this TF to relocate from the nucleus to the nucleolus. ROS, pathogenesis‐related protein 1 (PR1) mRNAs, salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) contents are increased in healthy Arabidopsis loss‐of‐function ILR3 mutant (ilr3.2) plants, which implicates ILR3 in the regulation of plant defence responses. In AMV‐infected wild‐type (wt) plants, NEET expression is reduced slightly, but is induced significantly in ilr3.2 mutant plants. Furthermore, the accumulation of SA and JA is induced in Arabidopsis wt‐infected plants. AMV infection in ilr3.2 plants increases JA by over 10‐fold, and SA is reduced significantly, indicating an antagonist crosstalk effect. The accumulation levels of viral RNAs are decreased significantly in ilr3.2 mutants, but the virus can still systemically invade the plant. The AMV CP–ILR3 interaction may down‐regulate a host factor, NEET, leading to the activation of plant hormone responses to obtain a hormonal equilibrium state, where infection remains at a level that does not affect plant viability
Identification of novel transcriptional regulators of Zat12 using comprehensive yeast one‐hybrid screens
Authors: Ben Daniel Bat‐Hen , Cattan Esther , Wachtel Chaim , Avrahami Dorit , Glick Yair , Malichy Asaf , Gerber Doron , Miller Gad
Published: February 2016

To appropriately acclimate to environmental stresses, plants have to rapidly activate a specific transcriptional program. Yet, the identity and function of many of the transcriptional regulators that mediate early responses to abiotic stress stimuli is still unknown. In this work we employed the promoter of the multi‐stress‐responsive zinc‐finger protein Zat12 in yeast one‐hybrid (Y1H) screens to identify early abiotic stress‐responsive transcriptional regulators. Analysis of Zat12 promoter fragments fused to luciferase underlined an approximately 200 bp fragment responsive to NaCl and to reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using these segments and others as baits against Y1H control or stress Arabidopsis prey libraries, we identified 15 potential Zat12 transcriptional regulators. Among the prominent proteins identified were known transcription factors including bZIP29 and ANAC91 as well as unknown function proteins such as a homolog of the human USB1, a U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) processing protein, and dormancy/auxin‐associated family protein 2 (DRM2). Altered expression of Zat12 during high light stress in the knockout mutants further indicated the involvement of these proteins in the regulation of Zat12. Using a state of the art microfluidic approach we showed that AtUSB1 and DRM2 can specifically bind dsDNA and were able to identify the preferred DNA‐binding motif of all four proteins. Overall, the proteins identified in this work provide an important start point for charting the earliest signaling network of Zat12 and of other genes required for acclimation to abiotic stresses.
Democracy, Hybrid Regimes, and Infant Mortality: A Cross‐National Analysis of Sub‐Saharan African Nations*
Authors: Wullert Katherine E. , Williamson John B.
Published: February 2016

Objective

There is an extensive literature analyzing the relationship between democracy and infant mortality; however, findings are mixed. Some studies find a significant inverse relationship, while others conclude that no such relationship exists. We seek to take the debate in a new direction, overlooked in prior research, by providing a theoretical rational for and empirical evidence of a quadratic relationship, in which countries with components of both autocracy and democracy have higher infant mortality.

Methods

We test lagged, cross‐sectional models on a sample of 47 Sub‐Saharan African nations.

Results

We find that a quadratic model better explains cross‐national variation in infant mortality than the linear alternative. Infant mortality tends to be higher in hybrid regimes, relative to both autocracies and democracies. Hybrids appear to be politically unstable, which may in part account for their greater infant mortality.

Conclusion

Hybrid regimes exist in precarious positions with detrimental consequences for population health.