bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of gene activation by two TAL effectors from Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. manihotis reveals candidate host susceptibility genes in cassava
Authors: Cohn Megan , Morbitzer Robert , Lahaye Thomas , Staskawicz Brian J.
Published: November 2015

Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. manihotis (Xam) employs transcription activator‐like (TAL) effectors to promote bacterial growth and symptom formation during infection of cassava. TAL effectors are secreted via the bacterial type III secretion system into plant cells, where they are directed to the nucleus, bind DNA in plant promoters and activate the expression of downstream genes. The DNA‐binding activity of TAL effectors is carried out by a central domain which contains a series of repeat variable diresidues (RVDs) that dictate the sequence of bound nucleotides. TAL14Xam668 promotes virulence in Xam strain Xam668 and has been shown to activate multiple cassava genes. In this study, we used RNA sequencing to identify the full target repertoire of TAL14Xam668 in cassava, which includes over 50 genes. A subset of highly up‐regulated genes was tested for activation by TAL14CIO151 from Xam strain CIO151. Although TAL14CIO151 and TAL14Xam668 differ by only a single RVD, they display differential activation of gene targets. TAL14CIO151 complements the TAL14Xam668 mutant defect, implying that shared target genes are important for TAL14Xam668‐mediated disease susceptibility. Complementation with closely related TAL effectors is a novel approach to the narrowing down of biologically relevant susceptibility genes of TAL effectors with multiple targets. This study provides an example of how TAL effector target activation by two strains within a single species of Xanthomonas can be dramatically affected by a small change in RVD–nucleotide affinity at a single site, and reflects the parameters of RVD–nucleotide interaction determined using designer TAL effectors in transient systems.
Protein composition of 6K2‐induced membrane structures formed during Potato virus A infection
Authors: Lõhmus Andres , Varjosalo Markku , Mäkinen Kristiina
Published: November 2015

The definition of the precise molecular composition of membranous replication compartments is a key to understanding the mechanisms of virus multiplication. Here, we set out to investigate the protein composition of the potyviral replication complexes. We purified the potyviral 6K2 protein‐induced membranous structures from Potato virus A (PVA)‐infected Nicotiana benthamiana plants. For this purpose, the 6K2 protein, which is the main inducer of potyviral membrane rearrangements, was expressed in fusion with an N‐terminal Twin‐Strep‐tag and Cerulean fluorescent protein (SC6K) from the infectious PVA cDNA. A non‐tagged Cerulean‐6K2 (C6K) virus and the SC6K protein alone in the absence of infection were used as controls. A purification scheme exploiting discontinuous sucrose gradient centrifugation followed by Strep‐tag‐based affinity chromatography was developed. Both (+)‐ and (–)‐strand PVA RNA and viral protein VPg were co‐purified specifically with the affinity tagged PVA‐SC6K. The purified samples, which contained individual vesicles and membrane clusters, were subjected to mass spectrometry analysis. Data analysis revealed that many of the detected viral and host proteins were either significantly enriched or fully specifically present in PVA‐SC6K samples when compared with the controls. Eight of eleven potyviral proteins were identified with high confidence from the purified membrane structures formed during PVA infection. Ribosomal proteins were identified from the 6K2‐induced membranes only in the presence of a replicating virus, reinforcing the tight coupling between replication and translation. A substantial number of proteins associating with chloroplasts and several host proteins previously linked with potyvirus replication complexes were co‐purified with PVA‐derived SC6K, supporting the conclusion that the host proteins identified in this study may have relevance in PVA replication.
The Magnaporthe grisea species complex and plant pathogenesis
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Zheng Xiaobo , Zhang Zhengguang
Published: November 2015

Taxonomy

Kingdom Fungi; Phylum Ascomycota; Class Sordariomycetes; Order Magnaporthales; Family Pyriculariaceae (anamorph)/Magnaporthaceae (teleomorph); Genus Pyricularia (anamorph)/Magnaporthe (teleomorph); Species P. grisea (anamorph)/M. grisea (teleomorph).

Host range

Very broad at the species level, including rice, wheat, barley, millet and other species of the Poaceae (Gramineae).

Disease symptoms

Can be found on all parts of the plant, including leaves, leaf collars, necks, panicles, pedicels, seeds and even the roots. Initial symptoms are white to grey–green lesions or spots with darker borders, whereas older lesions are elliptical or spindle‐shaped and whitish to grey with necrotic borders. Lesions may enlarge and coalesce to eventually destroy the entire leaf.

Disease control

Includes cultural strategies, genetic resistance and the application of chemical fungicides.

Geographical distribution

Widespread throughout the rice‐growing regions of the globe and has been reported in more than 85 countries.

Genomic structure

Different isolates possess similar genomic sizes and overall genomic structures. For the laboratory strain 70‐15: assembly size, 40.98 Mb; number of chromosomes, seven; number of predicted genes, 13 032; G + C composition, 51.6%; average gene contains 451.6 amino acids; mitochondrion genome size, 34.87 kb.

Useful website

http://www.broadinstitute.org/annotation/genome/magnaporthe_comparative/MultiHome.html.
FGF‐23 and Osteoprotegerin but not Fetuin‐A are associated with death and enhance risk prediction in non‐dialysis chronic kidney disease stages 3–5.
Authors: Alderson Helen V , Ritchie James P , Middleton Rachel , Larsson Anders , Larsson Tobias E. , Kalra Philip A
Published: November 2015

Aim

Numerous biomarkers have been shown to associate with clinical endpoints in chronic kidney disease (CKD). There is limited evidence whether biomarkers improve risk prediction in relation to clinical outcomes. Our study investigates whether a small suite of key chronic kidney disease‐mineral and bone disorder biomarkers could be used to enhance risk assessment in CKD.

Methods

Fetuin‐A, fibroblast growth factor‐23 and osteoprotegerin were measured on baseline plasma samples from 463 patients recruited to the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Standards Implementation Study. The biomarkers were analysed in relation to progression to end stage kidney disease, death and major cardiovascular events.

Results

Over a median follow up of 46 months (interquartile range 21–69), fibroblast growth factor‐23 was associated with risk for renal replacement therapy (hazard ratio (HR) 1.35, P = 0.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.001–1.820), cardiovascular events (HR 1.74 P < 0.001, 95% CI 1.303–1.305) and death (HR 1.4 P = 0.005, 95% CI 1.109–1.767). Osteoprotegerin was associated with risk for death (HR 1.06, P = 0.03, 95% CI 1.006–1.117). There was no clear association between Fetuin‐A and any of the clinical endpoints. The addition of biomarkers to risk models led to marginal improvement in model discrimination and reclassification.

Conclusion

Biomarkers are often associated with clinical endpoints, and we observed such associations in our study of patients with advanced CKD. However, the markers analysed in our study were of limited benefit in improving the prediction of these outcomes. Any extra information biomarkers may provide to improve risk prediction in clinical practice needs to be carefully balanced against the potential cost of these tools.
Nurses' perspectives on workplace mistreatment: A qualitative study
Authors: Vagharseyyedin Seyyed Abolfazl
Published: November 2015

An accurate understanding of workplace mistreatment and its impacts on nurses is crucial to hospital managers. A qualitative approach using conventional content analysis was adopted in this study to describe the perspectives of a sample of Iranian nurses concerning workplace mistreatment. After analyzing the transcribed interviews, three main themes emerged: (i) Demand for a more humanistic and appreciative environment; this theme consisted of three categories: “incompetent management practice”, “invisibility of nurses”, and “unethical behaviors”; (ii) Unprofessional interpersonal encounters which included three categories: “poorly defined job characteristics”, “nurses’ poor performance”, and “inefficient supportive means and structures”; and (iii) Inaction despite injury, consisting of two categories: “passive and ineffective ways of coping with mistreatment”, and “personal and professional negative impacts”. Findings from this study can guide further investigation within diverse populations of Iranian nurses, as well as worldwide, in order for firm conclusions to be drawn. Future research could compare the perspectives of other stakeholders – patients and relatives, physicians, and managers concerning workplace mistreatment.
Microarray expression profiling of dysregulated long non‐coding RNAs in Hirschsprung's disease reveals their potential role in molecular diagnosis
Authors: Shen Z. , Du C. , Zang R. , Xie H. , Lv W. , Li H. , Xia Y. , Tang W.
Published: November 2015

Background

Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is one of the common digestive disorders in the new born. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in various biological processes. However, knowledge on lncRNAs in HSCR is limited.

Methods

The expression profile of lncRNAs in HSCR was obtained using microarray. A total of 2078 differentially expressed lncRNAs were detected by microarray in HSCR tissues compared with matched normal colon tissues (fold change ≥2, p < 0.05). Candidate biomarkers were selected from these differentially expressed lncRNAs based on artificial criterion (raw signal intensity ≥50; fold change ≥8) and then validated in 80 pairs of HSCR and normal tissues using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Moreover, the computational analysis was used to evaluate the lncRNA‐microRNA and lncRNA–protein relationships.

Key Results

A panel of 5‐lncRNAs was identified to distinguish HSCR from normal tissues with remarkable sensitivity and specificity. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for HSCR identification in the validation set was 0.875. The bioinformatics analysis reveals that these dysregulated lncRNAs are mainly involved in RNA–protein relationships, including RNA splicing, binding, transport, processing, and localization.

Conclusions & Inferences

Our results are the first to report the expression profile of dysregulated lncRNAs in HSCR and infer that lncRNAs may serve as novel diagnostic biomarkers for HSCR.
Evolutionary dynamics of the plastid inverted repeat: the effects of expansion, contraction, and loss on substitution rates
Authors: Zhu Andan , Guo Wenhu , Gupta Sakshi , Fan Weishu , Mower Jeffrey P.
Published: November 2015

Rates of nucleotide substitution were previously shown to be several times slower in the plastid inverted repeat (IR) compared with single‐copy (SC) regions, suggesting that the IR provides enhanced copy‐correction activity.

To examine the generality of this synonymous rate dependence on the IR, we compared plastomes from 69 pairs of closely related species representing 52 families of angiosperms, gymnosperms, and ferns.

We explored the breadth of IR boundary shifts in land plants and demonstrate that synonymous substitution rates are, on average, 3.7 times slower in IR genes than in SC genes. In addition, genes moved from the SC into the IR exhibit lower synonymous rates consistent with other IR genes, while genes moved from the IR into the SC exhibit higher rates consistent with other SC genes. Surprisingly, however, several plastid genes from Pelargonium, Plantago, and Silene have highly accelerated synonymous rates despite their IR localization.

Together, these results provide strong evidence that the duplicative nature of the IR reduces the substitution rate within this region. The anomalously fast‐evolving genes in Pelargonium, Plantago, and Silene indicate localized hypermutation, potentially induced by a higher level of error‐prone double‐strand break repair in these regions, which generates substitutional rate variation.
Gender Disparities in Symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Quality of Life in Defibrillator Recipients
Authors: MILLER JENNIFER L. , THYLÉN INGELA , MOSER DEBRA K.
Published: November 2015

Background

Most patients cope well with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), but psychological distress and ICD‐related concerns have been reported in about 20% of ICD recipients. Many previous studies have not distinguished between genders.

Methods

In this nationwide study we compared quality of life, anxiety, and depression symptoms between the genders in ICD recipients, and determined predictors of each of these variables in men and women. All adult Swedish ICD recipients were invited by mail to participate and 2,771 patients (66 ± 12 years) completed standardized measures of quality of life, symptoms of anxiety, and depression. Time since implantation ranged from 1 year to 23 years with a mean of 4.7 ± 3.9.

Results

Women reported worse quality of life (mean index 0.790 vs 0.825) and higher prevalence of anxiety (20.5% vs 14.7%) than did men (P < 0.001 for both comparisons), while there were no differences in symptoms of depression (8.8% vs 8.2%).

Conclusions

Most ICD recipients report a good quality of life, without emotional distress, but among the minority with distress, women fare worse than men.
How many paediatric referrals to an allergist could be managed by a general practitioner with special interest?
Authors: Isinkaye Tomide , Gilbert Sarah , Seddon Paul , Fox Adam T. , Leech Susan , Pollock Ian , Smith Helen
Published: November 2015

Background

The concept of a general practitioner with special interest (GPwSI) was first proposed in the 2000 National Health Service Plan, as a way of providing specialized treatment closer to the patient's home and reducing hospital waiting times. Given the patchy and inadequate provision of paediatric allergy services in the UK, the introduction of GPwSIs might reduce pressure on existing specialist services.

Methods

A total of 100 consecutive referrals to a specialist paediatric allergy clinic were reviewed to assess what proportion could be managed by a GPwSI allergy service with a predefined range of facilities and expertise (accurate diagnosis and management of allergy; skin prick testing; provision of allergen avoidance advice; ability to assess suitability for desensitization). Each referral was reviewed independently by three allergy specialists. Cases were initially judged on the referral letter and then, to determine whether appropriate triage decisions could be made prospectively, cases were re‐assessed with information summarized in the clinic letter. The proportion of referrals suitable for a GPwSI was calculated and their characteristics identified.

Results

At least 42% and up to 75% were suitable for management by a GPwSI in allergy based on unanimous and majority agreement, respectively. The appropriateness of 79% referrals could be identified based on the information in the referral letter. A total of 19% referrals were unsuitable for a GPwSI service because of complex or multisystem disease, need for specialist knowledge or facilities or patient's young age.

Conclusions

At least two‐fifths of paediatric allergy referrals to our hospital‐based service could be dealt with in a GPwSI clinic, thereby diversifying the patient pathway, allowing specialist services to focus on complex cases and reducing waiting times for appointments.
Risk factors for intraoperative allogeneic blood transfusion during craniotomy for brain tumor removal in children
Authors: Vassal Olivia , Desgranges François‐Pierrick , Tosetti Sylvain , Burgal Stéphanie , Dailler Frédéric , Javouhey Etienne , Mottolese Carmine , Chassard Dominique
Published: November 2015

Background

Several clinical and surgical factors can influence the occurrence of allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) during oncologic neurosurgery.

Objectives

To identify the potential predictive factors of ABT during craniotomy for the removal of brain tumors in children and the potential impact of intraoperative ABT on early postoperative outcome.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in all pediatric patients younger than 18 years who underwent craniotomy for brain tumor removal from December 2009 to December 2012 in our institution. Pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative data were collected from medical and stored electronic anesthesia records. The predictors of intraoperative ABT were determined using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 110 patients were included. Twenty‐seven patients (25%) received intraoperative ABT with a volume of 16 ± 8 ml·kg−1. On multivariate analysis, an age <4 years, a duration of surgery >270 min, and a preoperative hemoglobin <12.2 g·dl−1 were independently associated with the need for intraoperative ABT. We did not show any significant difference concerning postoperative early outcome and length of stay between the transfused and non‐transfused patients except for the duration of postoperative mechanical ventilation that was significantly higher in the transfused group (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

In children, craniotomy for brain tumor removal is at risk of intraoperative ABT. An age <4 years, a duration of surgery >270 min, and a preoperative hemoglobin <12.2 g·dl−1 are the main factors associated with intraoperative ABT during this surgery.
Are needles of Pinus pinaster more vulnerable to xylem embolism than branches? New insights from X‐ray computed tomography
Authors: Bouche Pauline S. , Delzon Sylvain , Choat Brendan , Badel Eric , Brodribb Timothy J. , Burlett Regis , Cochard Hervé , Charra‐Vaskou Katline , Lavigne Bruno , Li Shan , Mayr Stefan , Morris Hugh , Torres‐Ruiz José M. , Zufferey Vivian , Jansen Steven
Published: November 2015

Plants can be highly segmented organisms with an independently redundant design of organs. In the context of plant hydraulics, leaves may be less embolism resistant than stems, allowing hydraulic failure to be restricted to distal organs that can be readily replaced.

We quantified drought‐induced embolism in needles and stems of Pinus pinaster using high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT). HRCT observations of needles were compared with the rehydration kinetics method to estimate the contribution of extra‐xylary pathways to declining hydraulic conductance.

High‐resolution computed tomography images indicated that the pressure inducing 50% of embolized tracheids was similar between needle and stem xylem (P50 needle xylem = −3.62 MPa, P50 stem xylem = −3.88 MPa). Tracheids in both organs showed no difference in torus overlap of bordered pits. However, estimations of the pressure inducing 50% loss of hydraulic conductance at the whole needle level by the rehydration kinetics method were significantly higher (P50 needle = −1.71 MPa) than P50 needle xylem derived from HRCT.

The vulnerability segmentation hypothesis appears to be valid only when considering hydraulic failure at the entire needle level, including extra‐xylary pathways. Our findings suggest that native embolism in needles is limited and highlight the importance of imaging techniques for vulnerability curves.
Multiple Eruptive Pyogenic Granulomas Occurring in a Region of Scalded Skin
Authors: Xu Yu , Li Hui , Wang Zai‐Xing , Yang Sen
Published: November 2015

We report a case of multiple eruptive pyogenic granulomas after scalding. A 4‐year‐old girl developed papules and nodules within the scalded areas after a hot soup burn. Although the occurrence of pyogenic granulomas after trauma to the skin is common, multiple lesions of pyogenic granuloma secondary to scalding are rare.
Dermoscopy for Identification of Basal Cell Carcinomas in Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome During Carbon Dioxide Laser Surgery
Authors: Sorensen Adam , Wolter Sierra , Patel Nirav , Hansen Ronald , Price Harper
Published: November 2015

Basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) is a rare autosomal dominant condition best known for the development of early and multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). Because the condition requires lifetime surveillance for new cancers, an efficient method of identification and treatment is desirable, especially in children. Dermoscopy and carbon dioxide laser have previously been shown to be effective in the identification and treatment, respectively, of BCCs in BCNS. We present here a case illustrating that the use of these modalities in a single session provides patients with safe and effective treatment that is efficient, cosmetically acceptable, and minimally disruptive to their lives.
“Mint” Condition: Contact Dermatitis in an Adolescent Numismatist
Authors: Cotton Colleen H. , Admani Shehla E. , Jacob Sharon E. , Krakowski Andrew C.
Published: November 2015

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is common in children and adolescents. A history of persistent rash despite appropriate treatment should raise suspicion of ACD. We present the case of a 16‐year‐old boy with chronic dermatitis suspected of being a possible nickel allergy. He and his mother denied known common exposures. Patch testing confirmed allergies to multiple metals and several preservatives. A detailed social history revealed that the patient was an avid coin collector. Information about hobbies and activities should be elicited in any patient in whom ACD is suspected to determine exposures they may not initially have considered relevant. This case highlights the importance of pre‐ and posttest counseling and exposure history.
Surgical anterior cavoplasty for managing a case of early acute outflow obstruction after liver transplantation
Authors: Ibáñez Vicente , Montalvá Eva , Vila Juan J. , López‐Andújar Rafael
Published: November 2015

HVOO following liver transplantation is rarely treated surgically because it tends to debut subacutely. However, acute HVOO is a surgical emergency that compromises the viability of the graft. We report a case of HVOO diagnosed intra‐operatively during surgical revision for a suspected arterial thrombosis in a 10‐month‐old male recipient of a second graft (segments II–III) for familial intrahepatic cholestasis. HVOO was related to a stenosis at the first transplant hepato‐caval anastomosis, left in place to obtain longer venous cuffs for retransplantation. An anterior cavoplasty was necessary to resolve the issue. The new anastomosis was created under total vascular exclusion after gaining control of the supradiaphragmatic vena cava, because the inferior vena cava was unsuitable for further surgery. This approach (normally used as a means to avoid sternotomy in patients with hepatic or renal tumours associated with venous thrombosis) allows adequate vascular control and, in selected cases, offers a surgical alternative for treating HVOO.
Comparing Handheld Meters and Electronic Dosimeters for Measuring Ultraviolet Levels under Shade and in the Sun
Authors: Dobbinson Suzanne , Niven Philippa , Buller David , Allen Martin , Gies Peter , Warne Charles
Published: November 2015

This study aimed to compare the validity, reliability and practicality of alternative portable methods for measuring erythemal UVR levels in passive recreation areas in public parks. UVR levels were measured for point in time comparisons between Solarmeter 6.5 handheld meters and time‐stamped electronic dosimeters in a large central park in Melbourne, Australia. Observations were made at 20 locations in the park by two research assistants under two conditions: (1) matched shade (2) contrasting shade—no shade. Comparisons were also made with scientific instruments on the UVR monitoring station rooftop and by remotely selecting UV records and forecasts on cloud‐free dates of park observations. There was good agreement between the portable UVR instruments in the park setting as confirmed via Bland Altman plots, while the dosimeter appeared less sensitive to change in shade conditions. The rooftop measurements showed that the Solarmeter 6.5 UVR readings were comparable to those of the adjacent rooftop instruments. The practicalities of using the dosimeters and Solarmeters for behavioral studies are discussed. These findings provide a basis for use of the Solarmeter 6.5 to measure changes in UVR levels due to different environmental conditions with relative accuracy for intervention studies in outdoor settings.
Cellulose synthase gene expression profiling of Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Tran M. L. , Roberts A. W.
Published: November 2015

The cellulose synthase (CESA) gene family of seed plants comprises six clades that encode isoforms with conserved expression patterns and distinct functions in cellulose synthesis complex (CSC) formation and primary and secondary cell wall synthesis. In mosses, which have rosette CSCs like those of seed plants but lack lignified secondary cell walls, the CESA gene family diversified independently and includes no members of the six functionally distinct seed plant clades. There are seven CESA isoforms encoded in the genome of the moss Physcomitrella patens. However, only PpCESA5 has been characterised functionally, and little information is available on the expression of other PpCESA family members. We have profiled PpCESA expression through quantitative RT‐PCR, analysis of promoter‐reporter lines, and cluster analysis of public microarray data in an effort to identify expression and co‐expression patterns that could help reveal the functions of PpCESA isoforms in protein complex formation and development of specific tissues. In contrast to the tissue‐specific expression observed for seed plant CESAs, each of the PpCESAs was broadly expressed throughout most developing tissues. Although a few statistically significant differences in expression of PpCESAs were noted when some tissues and hormone treatments were compared, no strong co‐expression patterns were observed. Along with CESA phylogenies and lack of single PpCESA mutant phenotypes reported elsewhere, broad overlapping expression of the PpCESAs indicates a high degree of inter‐changeability and is consistent with a different pattern of functional specialisation in the evolution of the seed plant and moss CESA families.
Seasonal and annual variations in the pollination efficiency of a pollinator community of Dictamnus albus L.
Authors: Fisogni A. , Rossi M. , Sgolastra F. , Bortolotti L. , Bogo G. , de Manincor N. , Quaranta M. , Galloni M.
Published: November 2015

The interplay between insect and plant traits outlines the patterns of pollen transfer and the subsequent plant reproductive fitness. We studied the factors that affect the pollination efficiency of a pollinator community of Dictamnus albus L. by evaluating insect behaviour and morphological characteristics in relation to flowering phenology. In order to extrapolate the pollinator importance of single taxa and of the whole pollinator guild, we calculated an index distinguishing between potential (PPI) and realized (RPI) pollinator importance. Although the pollinator species spectrum appeared rather constant, we found high intra‐ and inter‐annual variability of pollinator frequency and importance within the insect community. Flower visitation rate strictly depended on insect abundance and on the overlap between their flying period and flower blooming. All the pollinators visited flowers from the bottom to the top of the racemes, excluding intra‐plant geitonogamous pollination, and most of them showed high pollen fidelity. Only medium large‐sized bees could contact the upward bending stiles while feeding on nectar, highlighting a specialisation of the plant towards bigger pollinators. Moreover, we found evidence of functional specialisation, since all pollinators were restricted to a single taxonomic group (order: Hymenoptera; superfamily: Apoidea). Both the PPI and RPI indices indicate Habropoda tarsata as the most important pollinator of D. albus. Following hand cross‐pollination experiments we revealed the presence of pollination limitation in 1 of the 3 years of field study. We discuss this result in relation to flowering abundance and to possible mismatches of phenological periods between plants and insects.
Maternal Serum 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations during Pregnancy and Infant Birthweight for Gestational Age: a Three‐Cohort Study
Authors: Tian Yan , Holzman Claudia , Siega‐Riz Anna M. , Williams Michelle A. , Dole Nancy , Enquobahrie Daniel A. , Ferre Cynthia D.
Published: November 2015

Background

In response to inconsistent findings, we investigated associations between maternal serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and infant birthweight for gestational age (BW/GA), including potential effect modification by maternal race/ethnicity and infant sex.

Methods

Data from 2558 pregnant women were combined in a nested case–control study (preterm and term) sampled from three cohorts: the Omega study, the Pregnancy, Infection and Nutrition study, and the Pregnancy Outcomes and Community Health study. Maternal 25(OH)D concentrations were sampled at 4 to 29 weeks gestation (80% 14–26 weeks). BW/GA was modelled as sex and gestational age‐specific birthweight z‐scores. General linear regression models (adjusting for age, education, parity, pre‐pregnancy body mass index, season at blood draw, and smoking) assessed 25(OH)D concentrations in relation to BW/GA.

Results

Among non‐Hispanic Black women, the positive association between 25(OH)D concentrations and BW/GA was of similar magnitude in pregnancies with female or male infants [beta (β) = 0.015, standard error (SE) = 0.007, P = 0.025; β = 0.018, SE = 0.006, P = 0.003, respectively]. Among non‐Hispanic White women, 25(OH)D‐BW/GA association was observed only with male infants, and the effect size was lower (β = 0.008, SE = 0.003, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Maternal serum concentrations of 25(OH)D in early and mid‐pregnancy were positively associated with BW/GA among non‐Hispanic Black male and female infants and non‐Hispanic White male infants. Effect modification by race/ethnicity may be due, in part, to overall lower concentrations of 25(OH)D in non‐Hispanic Blacks. Reasons for effect modification by infant sex remain unclear.
Genome‐wide identification of microRNAs responding to early stages of phosphate deficiency in maize
Authors: Nie Zhi , Ren Zhiyong , Wang Libo , Su Shunzong , Wei Xuan , Zhang Xiao , Wu Ling , Liu Dan , Tang Haitao , Liu Hailan , Zhang Suzhi , Gao Shibin
Published: November 2015

Phosphorus (P) is an essential element involved in numerous biochemical reactions. In plants, stress responses, such as the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), are induced to help them adapt to low phosphate (Pi) concentrations. In this study, deep sequencing was performed using the roots and leaves of maize seedlings grown under low Pi concentrations to identify miRNAs that are differentially expressed during the early stages of Pi deficiency. Eight small RNA libraries were constructed, and 159 known miRNAs representing 32 miRNA families and 10 novel miRNAs. Members of the miR396 family were extremely abundant. Further, 28 Pi‐responsive miRNAs were identified (27 known and 1 novel) of which 8 and 7 were significantly expressed exclusively in leaf and root tissues, respectively. The analysis of Pi‐responsive miRNAs target genes suggested that most target genes functioning as transcription factors were involved in root and leaf development. The expression profiles of selected Pi‐responsive miRNAs and target genes were confirmed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Moreover, we discuss the significance of the differences in expression patterns of these miRNAs during the early and later stages of Pi starvation. This study provides useful information concerning the role of miRNAs in response to Pi starvation and will further our understanding of the mechanisms governing Pi homeostasis in maize.
Board Diving Regulations in Public Swimming Pools and Risk of Injury
Authors: Williams David , Odin Louise
Published: November 2015

Public session access to diving boards is one of the stepping stones for those wishing to develop their skills in the sport of diving. The extent to which certain dive forms are considered risky (forward/backward/rotations) and therefore not permitted is a matter for local pool managers. In Study 1, 20 public pools with diving facilities responded to a U.K. survey concerning their diving regulation policy and related injury incidence in the previous year. More restrictive regulation of dive forms was not associated with a decrease in injuries (rs[42] = –0.20, p = 0.93). In Study 2, diving risk perception and attitudes towards regulation were compared between experienced club divers (N = 22) and nondivers (N = 22). Risk was perceived to be lower for those with experience, and these people favored less regulation. The findings are interpreted in terms of a risk thermostat model, where for complex physical performance activities such as diving, individuals may exercise caution in proportion to their ability and previous experience of success and failure related to the activity. Though intuitively appealing, restrictive regulation of public pool diving may be ineffective in practice because risk is not simplistically associated with dive forms, and divers are able to respond flexibly to risk by exercising caution where appropriate.
The Venezuelan Government and the Global Field: The Legislative Battle over Foreign Funding for Nongovernmental Organizations
Authors: Gill Timothy M.
Published: November 2015

In recent years, several governments have targeted nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) by enacting legislation that prohibits foreign funding for them. This article uses diplomatic cables, newspaper articles, and interviews with representatives from NGOs and donors to explain the Venezuelan government's passage of legislation prohibiting foreign funding for political NGOs in 2010. Existent political, sociological, and globalization‐oriented theories fail to explain the passage and timing of this legislation. Instead, I utilize and extend global fields theory to examine the Venezuelan government's redirection of its foreign relations, which I argue generated the political opportunity for the government to pass this legislation. I show that the government initially remained keyed into a global subfield involving groups that successfully pressured it to reconsider a more radical form of legislation prohibiting direct foreign funding for all NGOs when it came up for discussion in 2006, including the U.S. and Western European governments, and domestic NGOs. By 2010, however, the government had become embedded within a global subfield involving authoritarian and anti‐imperial governments that had already passed similar legislation, and domestic community councils. These newfound relations insulated the government from reconsideration and allowed it the political opportunity to pass a new, less radical piece of legislation.
From Austerity to Austerity: The Political Economy of Public Pension Reforms in Romania and Bulgaria
Authors: Adascalitei Dragos
Published: November 2015

This article discusses the trajectories of pension system reforms in two of the latecomers to the EU: Bulgaria and Romania. It finds that over the past two decades, the two countries pursued increasingly dissimilar public pension reforms for managing their respective public pay‐as‐you‐go pension systems. Using a political institutionalist theoretical framework, I argue that the divergence between the two cases is attributable to multiple factors. First, different temporary political compromises between national and international actors generated reforms that retrenched public pensions and introduced mandatory private accounts. Second, pension reforms often had unintended consequences that limited their intended impact. Third, incremental adjustments introduced by governments in response to political pressures caused alternating phases of austerity and generosity that catered to different constituencies in each country. In Romania, reform outcomes amounted to a moderately generous pension system, financed through relatively high contribution rates with a small funded component, while in the case of Bulgaria, the pension system evolved into a meagre programme, financed through low contribution rates and a larger private pillar.
Fertilizer value of phosphorus in different residues
Authors: Delin S.
Published: November 2015

The phosphorus (P) fertilizer effect of a range of commonly available manure, waste treatment and by‐product residues was tested in pot, field and incubation experiments. The effect of the residues on P offtake was compared with that of commercial mineral P (super phosphate) to calculate the mineral fertilizer equivalent (MFE). Possible relationships between MFE and P extractable from residues using different agents (ammonium lactate, citrate, water) were examined. Dry matter yield and P concentration were measured in ryegrass grown in pots amended with 14 different residues. The effect on the first cut (after 5 weeks) was significantly higher for residues with a low organic matter content, for example ash and biogas residues (MFE = 74–85%), than for many other products with higher organic matter content, for example meat meal (MFE = 44%), cattle slurry (MFE = 57%) and sewage sludge (MFE = 0–37%). However, the effect on two combined cuts (after 11 weeks) was more similar between residues (MFE = 40–60% for most residues). Ammonium lactate‐extractable P (P‐AL) in residues correlated better with MFE (r2 = 0.48) than water‐extractable or citrate‐extractable P. Grain yield and P concentration were measured in a field experiment with spring wheat fertilized with four different residues. Pelleted meat meal had a similar effect on yield and P offtake as mineral fertilizer P, whereas two different sewage sludge and chicken manure had approximately 50% of the mineral fertilizer effect. The effect of residues on soil P‐AL (the Swedish measure of easily available soil P) in the incubation experiment showed no correlation with MFE from the pot experiments.
HLA‐B*40:306, a novel variant of HLA‐B*40, discovered in a Taiwanese bone marrow hematopoietic stem cell donor
Authors: Yang K. L. , Hung J. H. , Lin P. Y.
Published: November 2015

One nucleotide substitution at residue 308 of the HLA‐B*40:06:01:01 results in a new allele, HLA‐B*40:306.
HLA‐B*35:168, a novel HLA allele identified in a Chinese platelet donor
Authors: Li X.‐F. , Li G.‐J. , Zhang X. , Li J.‐P.
Published: November 2015

HLA‐B*35:168 has one nucleotide change from HLA‐B*35:01:01:01 where 20 P is changed to R.
A nucleotide insertion in Exon 2 is responsible for a new HLA‐DRB1 null allele, HLA‐DRB1*14:166N
Authors: Testi M. , Troiano M. , Paladini E. , Di Luzio A. , Andreani M.
Published: November 2015

DRB1*14 is identical to DRB1*14:54:01 except for a single nucleotide insertion of A in position 175 in Exon 2.
A novel allele HLA‐A*11:152 was identified by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Shen G. , Qiang W. , Zhu Y.‐Y. , Zou J. , Liu G.‐J. , Yao L. , Yin J.‐P.
Published: November 2015

HLA‐A*11:152 differs from A*11:01:01 by a single nucleotide at position 266 in Exon 2.
The Sec1/Munc18 Protein Groove Plays a Conserved Role in Interaction with Sec9p/SNAP‐25
Authors: Weber‐Boyvat Marion , Chernov Konstantin G. , Aro Nina , Wohlfahrt Gerd , Olkkonen Vesa M. , Jäntti Jussi
Published: November 2015

The Sec1/Munc18 (SM) proteins constitute a conserved family with essential functions in SNARE‐mediated membrane fusion. Recently, a new protein–protein interaction site in Sec1p, designated the groove, was proposed. Here, we show that a sec1 groove mutant yeast strain, sec1(w24), displays temperature‐sensitive growth and secretion defects. The yeast Sec1p and mammalian Munc18‐1 grooves were shown to play an important role in the interaction with the SNAREs Sec9p and SNAP‐25b, respectively. Incubation of SNAP‐25b with the Munc18‐1 groove mutant resulted in a lag in the kinetics of SNARE complex assembly in vitro when compared with wild‐type Munc18‐1. The SNARE regulator SRO7 was identified as a multicopy suppressor of sec1(w24) groove mutant and an intact Sec1p groove was required for the plasma membrane targeting of Sro7p–SNARE complexes. Simultaneous inactivation of Sec1p groove and SRO7 resulted in reduced levels of exocytic SNARE complexes. Our results identify the groove as a conserved interaction surface in SM proteins. The results indicate that this structural element is important for interactions with Sec9p/SNAP‐25 and participates, in concert with Sro7p, in the initial steps of SNARE complex assembly.
Germline gene polymorphisms predisposing domestic mammals to carcinogenesis
Authors: Flisikowski K. , Flisikowska T. , Sikorska A. , Perkowska A. , Kind A. , Schnieke A. , Switonski M.
Published: November 2015

Cancer is a complex disease caused in part by predisposing germline gene polymorphisms. Knowledge of carcinogenesis in companion mammals (dog and cat) and some livestock species (pig and horse) is quite advanced. The prevalence of certain cancers varies by breed in these species, suggesting the presence of predisposing genetic variants in susceptible breeds. This review summarizes the present understanding of germline gene polymorphisms, including BRCA1, BRCA2, MC1R, KIT, NRAS and RAD51, associated with predisposition to melanoma, mammary cancer, osteosarcoma and histiocytic sarcoma in dogs, cats, pigs and horses. The predisposing variants in these species are discussed in the context of human germline gene polymorphisms associated with the same types of cancer.
Application of Extra Virgin Olive Oil to Prevent Nipple Cracking in Lactating Women
Authors: Cordero María José Aguilar , Villar Norma Mur , Barrilao Rafael Guisado , Cortés Manuel Eduardo Cortés , López Antonio Manuel Sánchez
Published: November 2015

Background

It is well established that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), applied to the skin, has healing and anti‐inflammatory properties.

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of EVOO in the prevention of nipple cracking in lactating women.

Methods

Experimental, prospective, randomized study of 300 lactating women, admitted to the postpartum unit of the city's general hospital (Cienfuegos, Cuba). The study was carried out in 2012. Eligible patients were randomized into two groups of 150 women. In Group 1, EVOO was applied on the nipple after feeding, and in Group 2, drops of breast milk were applied to the nipple after feeding. Clinical evaluations were made during the first week of treatment and after the first month. All women who initiated breastfeeding were considered eligible to be included in this study; breastfeeding was characterized as the moment of mother–child interaction with suction on the nipple. Efficacy was evaluated quantitatively, as the absence of cracks in the nipple during the first 2 weeks of lactation using as the proportion of women with or without nipple cracks, and if present, whether they were moderate or slight.

Results

The quantitative efficacy was 97.3% and no adverse effects occurred in mothers and newborns during the administration of EVOO.

Discussion and Conclusions

EVOO helps prevent nipple cracking in lactating women. It has been shown to have protective effects when breastfeeding presents technical difficulties. This conclusion is borne out by the frequency distribution results obtained, which reflect a significantly higher proportion of nipple cracking in the population that was not treated with EVOO.

Linking Evidence to Action

Use EVOO to prevent nipple cracking during breastfeeding by administering 3 drops on each nipple after each feeding. Decreased nipple cracking will reduce pain and enhance breastfeedinging by administering 3 drops on each nipple after each feeding, improving the health of mothers and infants.
Heterogeneous ageing of skeletal muscle microvascular function
Authors: Muller‐Delp Judy M.
Published: November 2015

The distribution of blood flow to skeletal muscle during exercise is altered with advancing age. Changes in arteriolar function that are muscle specific underlie age‐induced changes in blood flow distribution. With advancing age, functional adaptations that occur in resistance arterioles from oxidative muscles differ from those that occur in glycolytic muscles. Age‐related adaptations of morphology, as well as changes in both endothelial and vascular smooth muscle signalling, differ in muscle of diverse fibre type. Age‐induced endothelial dysfunction has been reported in most skeletal muscle arterioles; however, unique alterations in signalling contribute to the dysfunction in arterioles from oxidative muscles as compared with those from glycolytic muscles. In resistance arterioles from oxidative muscle, loss of nitric oxide signalling contributes significantly to endothelial dysfunction, whereas in resistance arterioles from glycolytic muscle, alterations in both nitric oxide and prostanoid signalling underlie endothelial dysfunction. Similarly, adaptations of the vascular smooth muscle that occur with advancing age are heterogeneous between arterioles from oxidative and glycolytic muscles. In both oxidative and glycolytic muscle, late‐life exercise training reverses age‐related microvascular dysfunction, and exercise training appears to be particularly effective in reversing endothelial dysfunction. Patterns of microvascular ageing that develop among muscles of diverse fibre type and function may be attributable to changing patterns of physical activity with ageing. Importantly, aerobic exercise training, initiated even at an advanced age, restores muscle blood flow distribution patterns and vascular function in old animals to those seen in their young counterparts.

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