bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prochlorococcusphage ferredoxin: structural characterization and electron transfer to cyanobacterial sulfite reductases
Authors: Campbell Ian J. , Olmos Jose L. , Xu Weijun , Kahanda Dimithree , Atkinson Joshua T. , Sparks Othneil N. , Miller Mitchell D. , Phillips George N. , Bennett George N. , Silberg Jonathan J.
Published: February 2020

Marine cyanobacteria are infected by phage whose genomes encode ferredoxin (Fd) electron carriers. While these Fds are thought to redirect the energy harvested from light to phage-encoded oxidoreductases that enhance viral fitness, it is not clear how the biophysical properties and partner specificities of phage Fds relate to those in photosynthetic organisms. Bioinformatic analysis using a sequence similarity network revealed that phage Fds are most closely related to cyanobacterial Fds that transfer electrons from photosystems to oxidoreductases involved in nutrient assimilation. Structural analysis of myovirus P-SSM2 Fd (pssm2-Fd), which infectsProchlorococcus marinus, revealed high similarity to cyanobacterial Fds (≤0.5 Å RMSD). Additionally, pssm2-Fd exhibits a low midpoint reduction potential (−336 mV vs. SHE) similar to other photosynthetic Fds, albeit lower thermostability (Tm= 28°C) than many Fds. When expressed in anEscherichia colistrain with a sulfite assimilation defect, pssm2-Fd complemented growth when coexpressed with aProchlorococcus marinussulfite reductase, revealing that pssm2-Fd can transfer electrons to a host protein involved in nutrient assimilation. The high structural similarity with cyanobacterial Fds and reactivity with a host sulfite reductase suggest that phage Fds evolved to transfer electrons to cyanobacterial-encoded oxidoreductases.
Measurement of the torque in braided DNAs using a thermodynamic Maxwell relation
Authors: Xiao Botao , Brahmachari Sumitabha , Liu Yang , Ding Ke , Marko John F.
Published: February 2020

Braided DNAs are significant structural intermediates in cellular processes, yet little has been experimentally demonstrated about their higher-order structure and twisting torques. We use magnetic tweezers to measure braid extensions at forces ranging from 0.3 to 8 piconewtons, and then apply a thermodynamic Maxwell relation to calculate the torque. Experimentally inferred torques in unbuckled braids take on values up to 76 pN·nm, which depends on force, and inter-tether distance. As predicted using a statistical mechanical model, the twist modulus of the braids increases with catenation prior to buckling or formation of plectoneme, and is comparable to that of single DNA.
Bumblebee worker castes show differences in allele-specific DNA methylation and allele-specific expression
Authors: Marshall H. , Jones A.R.C. , Lonsdale Z.N. , Mallon E.B.
Published: February 2020

Allele-specific expression is when one allele of a gene shows higher levels of expression compared to the other allele, in a diploid organism. Genomic imprinting is an extreme example of this, where some genes exhibit allele-specific expression in a parent-of-origin manner. Recent work has identified potentially imprinted genes in species of Hymenoptera. However, the molecular mechanism which drives this allelic expression bias remains unknown. In mammals DNA methylation is often associated with imprinted genes. DNA methylation systems have been described in species of Hymenoptera, providing a candidate imprinting mechanism. Using previously generated RNA-Seq and whole genome bisulfite sequencing from reproductive and sterile bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) workers we have identified genome-wide allele-specific expression and allele-specific DNA methylation. The majority of genes displaying allele-specific expression are common between reproductive castes and the proportion of allele-specific expression bias generally varies between colonies. We have also identified genome-wide allele-specific DNA methylation patterns in both castes. There is no significant overlap between genes showing allele-specific expression and allele-specific methylation. These results indicate that DNA methylation does not directly drive genome-wide allele-specific expression in this species. Only a small number of the genes identified may be ‘imprinted’ and it may be these genes which are associated with allele-specific DNA methylation. Future work utilising reciprocal crosses to identify parent-of-origin DNA methylation will further clarify the role of DNA methylation in parent-of-origin allele-specific expression.
Genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity and genotype x environment interaction in a multi-parental population
Authors: Diouf Isidore , Derivot Laurent , Koussevitzky Shai , Carretero Yolande , Bitton Frédérique , Moreau Laurence , Causse Mathilde
Published: February 2020

Deciphering the genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity and genotype x environment interaction (GxE) is of primary importance for plant breeding in the context of global climate change. Tomato is a widely cultivated crop that can grow in different geographical habitats and which evinces a great capacity of expressing phenotypic plasticity. We used a multi-parental advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) tomato population to explore GxE and plasticity for multiple traits measured in a multi-environment trial (MET) design comprising optimal cultural conditions and water deficit, salinity and heat stress over 12 environments. Substantial GxE was observed for all the traits measured. Different plasticity parameters were estimated through the Finlay-Wilkinson and factorial regression models and used together with the genotypic means for quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping analyses. Mixed linear models were further used to investigate the presence of interactive QTLs (QEI). The results highlighted a complex genetic architecture of tomato plasticity and GxE. Candidate genes that might be involved in the occurrence of GxE were proposed, paving the way for functional characterization of stress response genes in tomato and breeding for climate-adapted crop.

Highlight

The genetic architecture of tomato response to several abiotic stresses is deciphered. QTL for plasticity and QTL x Environment were identified in a highly recombinant MAGIC population.
Cold-mediated regulation of systemic retinol transport controls adipose tissue browning
Authors: Fenzl Anna , Kulterer Oana Cristina , Spirk Katrin , Mitulović Goran , Marculescu Rodrig , Bilban Martin , Baumgartner-Parzer Sabina , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Kenner Lukas , Plutzky Jorge , Quadro Loredana , Kiefer Florian W.
Published: February 2020

Browning of white fat reduces obesity in many preclinical models. Vitamin A metabolites (retinoids) have been linked to thermogenic programming of adipose tissue (AT), however the physiologic importance of systemic retinoid metabolism for AT browning is unknown. Here we show that cold stimulation in mice and humans increases circulating retinol and its plasma transporter, retinol binding protein (RBP). Cold exposure shifts retinol abundance from liver towards subcutaneous white AT which correlates with enhanced thermogenic gene transcription. Cold-mediated retinoid flux is abrogated in Rbp deficient (Rbp-/-) mice and AT browning is dramatically impaired, which renders Rbp-/-mice cold intolerant. Rbp deficiency attenuates cold-induced lipid clearance due to decreased oxidative capacity. In humans, cold-mediated retinol increase is associated with enhanced lipid utilization. Retinol stimulation in primary human adipocytes promotes thermogenic gene expression and mitochondrial respiration. In conclusion, coordinated retinol delivery is essential for cold-induced thermogenic programming of white fat.
The ancestralC. eleganscuticle suppressesrol-1
Authors: Noble Luke M. , Miah Asif , Kaur Taniya , Rockman Matthew V.
Published: February 2020

Genetic background commonly modifies the effects of mutations. We discovered that worms mutant for the canonicalrol-1gene, identified by Brenner in 1974, do not roll in the genetic background of the wild strain CB4856. Using linkage mapping, association analysis and gene editing, we determined that N2 carries an insertion in the collagen genecol-182that acts as a recessive enhancer ofrol-1rolling. From population and comparative genomics, we infer the insertion is derived in N2 and related laboratory lines, likely arising during the domestication ofCaenorhabditis elegans, and breaking a conserved protein. The ancestral version ofcol-182also modifies the phenotypes of four other classical cuticle mutant alleles, and the effects of natural genetic variation on worm shape and locomotion. These results underscore the importance of genetic background and the serendipity of Brenner’s choice of strain.
Climate predicts geographic and temporal variation in mosquito-borne disease dynamics on two continents
Authors: Caldwell Jamie M. , LaBeaud A. Desiree , Lambin Eric F. , Stewart-Ibarra Anna M. , Ndenga Bryson A. , Mutuku Francis M. , Krystosik Amy R. , Ayala Efraín Beltrán , Anyamba Assaf , Borbor-Cordova Mercy J. , Damoah Richard , Grossi-Soyster Elysse N. , Heras Froilán Heras , Ngugi Harun N. , Ryan Sadie J. , Shah Melisa M. , Sippy Rachel , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: February 2020

Climate drives population dynamics through multiple mechanisms, which can lead to seemingly context-dependent effects of climate on natural populations. For climate-sensitive diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, climate appears to have opposing effects in different contexts. Here we show that a model, parameterized with laboratory measured climate-driven mosquito physiology, captures three key epidemic characteristics across ecologically and culturally distinct settings in Ecuador and Kenya: the number, timing, and duration of outbreaks. The model generates a range of disease dynamics consistent with observedAedes aegyptiabundances and laboratory-confirmed arboviral incidence with variable accuracy (28 – 85% for vectors, 44 – 88% for incidence). The model predicted vector dynamics better in sites with a smaller proportion of young children in the population, lower mean temperature, and homes with piped water and made of cement. Models with limited calibration that robustly capture climate-virus relationships can help guide intervention efforts and climate change disease projections.
The impacts of bioenergy pine plantation management practices on bee communities
Authors: Loy Xingwen , Gruenewald David , Gottlieb Isabel G. W. , Dobbs Emily K. , Miljanic Andriana S. , Botsch Jamieson , Lawley Brice , Ober Holly K. , Smith Lora , Fletcher Robert J. , Brosi Berry J.
Published: February 2020

Cultivation of bioenergy feedstocks is a growing land‐use world‐wide, yet we have a poor understanding of how bioenergy crop management practices affect biodiversity. This knowledge gap is particularly acute for candidate cellulosic bioenergy feedstocks, such as tree plantations, and for organisms that provide important ecosystem services, such as pollinators.

We examined bee communities in 83 sites across three states in the southeastern United States—Alabama, Florida and Georgia. We compared bee abundance and diversity in 66 pine plantation sites that reflect management with and without potential bioenergy feedstock production. At least three bioenergy feedstock production methods have been proposed for this region: (a) converting conventional timber stands to short‐rotation bioenergy plantations; (b) harvesting feedstock by thinning conventional plantations; and (c) harvesting of woody debris residues after plantations have been clear‐cut.

We found that bioenergy‐associated management practices including younger plantations (relative to older) and woody debris removal (relative to debris unremoved) in clear‐cut plantations were associated with reduced bee diversity. Removing ground debris in clear‐cut plantations also drastically increased bee abundance, though this effect was largely driven by strong dominance of just two bee species. Clear‐cut plantations had lower beta diversity than standing plantations.

Synthesis and applications. Management practices associated with bioenergy feedstock production can have negative effects on bee community diversity. In particular, harvesting of debris in clear‐cut plantations dramatically reduces bee diversity. Large‐scale bioenergy feedstock production that increases the prevalence of young and clear‐cut stands may cause landscape‐level beta diversity to decline. Nevertheless, bioenergy pine plantations likely support higher bee diversity than corn fields, an alternative bioenergy feedstock.
STRAWB2 (Stress and Wellbeing After Childbirth): a randomised controlled trial of targeted self‐help materials to prevent post‐traumatic stress disorder following childbirth
Authors: Slade P , West H , Thomson G , Lane S , Spiby H , Edwards RT , Charles JM , Garrett C , Flanagan B , Treadwell M , Hayden E , Weeks A
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To test whether providing psychological self‐help materials would significantly lower the incidence of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at 6–12 weeks postnatally.

Design

Open‐label randomised controlled trial, with blinded outcome assessment.

Setting

Community midwifery services in two National Health Service (NHS) trusts in the North West.

Sample

A cohort of 2419 women receiving normal NHS postnatal care.

Methods

Midwives screened women for traumatic birth experience; 678 women who screened positively (28.1%) were randomly allocated to self‐help with usual care (n = 336) or to usual care alone (n = 342). The self‐help materials were a leaflet and online film designed to prevent the development of PTSD after trauma exposure through explaining how to manage early psychological responses.

Main outcome measure

The primary outcome was a composite of diagnostic and subdiagnostic PTSD at 6–12 weeks postnatally using the gold‐standard Clinician‐Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS‐5) interview.

Results

Of the 678 women correctly randomised plus the nine women randomised in error, 478 (70.5%) were followed up. Diagnostic or subdiagnostic PTSD rates at follow‐up did not differ between groups who received self‐help (26.7%, 65/243) or usual care alone (26.2%, 64/244) (intention‐to‐treat analysis: RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.68–1.53). Findings remained consistent in the per‐protocol analysis (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.85–1.27). Women viewed the materials very positively. There were no adverse effects. Health economic micro‐costing indicated implementation would be very low cost.

Conclusions

Many women experience a traumatic birth and risk developing PTSD, but self‐help strategies without professional support are insufficient and should not be routinely introduced.

Tweetable abstract

Self‐help information alone does not reduce the number of women developing PTSD after a traumatic childbirth.
Omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation in pregnancy—baseline omega‐3 status and early preterm birth: exploratory analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Simmonds LA , Sullivan TR , Skubisz M , Middleton PF , Best KP , Yelland LN , Quinlivan J , Zhou SJ , Liu G , McPhee AJ , Gibson RA , Makrides M
Published: February 2020

Objective

To identify a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) biomarker able to detect which women with singleton pregnancies are most likely to benefit from omega‐3 supplementation to reduce their risk of early preterm birth.

Design

Exploratory analysis of a randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Six Australian hospitals.

Population

Women with a singleton pregnancy enrolled in the ORIP trial.

Methods

Using maternal capillary whole blood collected ~14 weeks’ gestation, the fatty acids in total blood lipids were quantified using gas chromatography. Interaction tests examined whether baseline PUFA status modified the effect of omega‐3 supplementation on birth outcomes.

Main outcome measure

Early preterm birth (<34 weeks’ gestation).

Results

A low total omega‐3 PUFA status in early pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of early preterm birth. Among women with a total omega‐3 status ≤4.1% of total fatty acids, omega‐3 supplementation substantially reduced the risk of early preterm birth compared with control (0.73 versus 3.16%; relative risk = 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07–0.79). Conversely, women with higher total omega‐3 status in early pregnancy were at lower risk of early preterm birth. Supplementing women with a baseline status above 4.9% increased early preterm birth (2.20 versus 0.97%; relative risk = 2.27, 95% CI 1.13–4.58).

Conclusions

Women with singleton pregnancies and low total omega‐3 PUFA status early in pregnancy have an increased risk of early preterm birth and are most likely to benefit from omega‐3 supplementation to reduce this risk. Women with higher total omega‐3 status are at lower risk and additional omega‐3 supplementation may increase their risk.

Tweetable abstract

Low total omega‐3 fat status helps identify which women benefit from extra omega‐3 to reduce early prematurity.
Improved genome assembly provides new insights into genome evolution in a desert poplar (Populus euphratica)
Authors: Zhang Zhiyang , Chen Yang , Zhang Junlin , Ma Xinzhi , Li Yiling , Li Mengmeng , Wang Deyan , Kang Minghui , Wu Haolin , Yang Yongzhi , Olson Matthew S. , DiFazio Stephen P. , Wan Dongshi , Liu Jianquan , Ma Tao
Published: February 2020

Populus euphratica is well adapted to extreme desert environments and is an important model species for elucidating the mechanisms of abiotic stress resistance in trees. The current assembly of P. euphratica genome is highly fragmented with many gaps and errors, thereby impeding downstream applications. Here, we report an improved chromosome‐level reference genome of P. euphratica (v2.0) using single‐molecule sequencing and chromosome conformation capture (Hi‐C) technologies. Relative to the previous reference genome, our assembly represents a nearly 60‐fold improvement in contiguity, with a scaffold N50 size of 28.59 Mb. Using this genome, we have found that extensive expansion of Gypsy elements in P. euphratica led to its rapid increase in genome size compared to any other Salicaceae species studied to date, and potentially contributed to adaptive divergence driven by insertions near genes involved in stress tolerance. We also detected a wide range of unique structural rearrangements in P. euphratica, including 2,549 translocations, 454 inversions, 121 tandem and 14 segmental duplications. Several key genes likely to be involved in tolerance to abiotic stress were identified within these regions. This high‐quality genome represents a valuable resource for poplar breeding and genetic improvement in the future, as well as comparative genomic analysis with other Salicaceae species.
Maintaining competence in airway management
Authors: Bessmann Ebbe L. , Rasmussen Lars S. , Konge Lars , Kristensen Michael S. , Rewers Mikael , Østergaard Doris ,   Airway Management Education Study Group
Published: February 2020

Background

Airway management is a defining skill for anaesthesiologists. Anaesthesiologists must maintain and update these crucial skills throughout their career, but how this is best achieved remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify anaesthesiologists’ procedural volume, confidence in airway management and their current and preferred future educational strategies.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed consisting of 28 items exploring essential skills in airway management. All anaesthesiologists in the Capital Region of Denmark were invited to participate.

Results

The response rate was 84% (240/285). Most anaesthesiologists felt competent to a high or very high degree in basic airway management. Anaesthesiologists from anaesthesia felt confident to a significantly higher degree than those working in the intensive care unit (ICU) regarding the practical aspects of airway management in both the anticipated difficult airway (93% vs 73%, P < .001) and the unanticipated difficult airway (81% vs 61%, P = .002). Both groups performed most of the key advanced techniques ≤4 times yearly, whereas anaesthesiologists from the ICU had a lower and less diverse procedural volume than those working in anaesthesia. The anaesthesiologists preferred training through their daily clinical work, hands‐on workshops, and scenario‐based simulation training. However, a large discrepancy was identified between the current and the desired level of training.

Conclusion

The anaesthesiologists felt competent to a high or very high degree in basic airway management but the current procedural volume in advanced airway management causes concern for skill maintenance. Furthermore, we found a gap between the current and the desired level of supplemental training.
Preimplantation genetic testing practices in the Nordic countries
Authors: Hreinsson Julius , Iwarsson Erik , Hanson Charles , Grøndahl Marie Louise , Løssl Kristine , Hydén‐Granskog Christel , Ingerslev Hans Jakob ,   PGT study group
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is growing in importance and volume internationally. International societies such as the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology compile international results and these data are published in scientific journals. We present the first compilation of practices, quality measuress and outcome data from Nordic clinics performing PGT.

Material and methods

We conducted a structured online survey of PGT practices in the Nordic countries to compare clinical and laboratory techniques, outcomes and quality measures applied in Nordic clinics. The survey was designed by the authors and answered by the authors and members of the study group. The outcome data represents results from 2018. Results and details were clarified through iteration with responding clinics while maintaining anonymity. Response rate in the study was 80%, with 8 of 10 clinics performing PGT responding.

Results

Most of the PGT cycles in the Nordic countries are funded through the public healthcare system with University Hospitals performing the majority of treatments, 716/848, or 84.4%, of oocyte retrievals in this dataset. The genetic analyses are in five cases performed by the affiliated local genetic laboratory, and the remaining three consult with large international private enterprise laboratories. Genetic counseling is widely used. Results in the Nordic clinics compare well with international data. Systematic quality control procedures are in place and the larger clinics and laboratories utilize ISO certification or accreditation in the quality management. Automatic witnessing with detailed electronic documentation of laboratory processes is not utilized in the responding clinics, although a majority uses manual witnessing procedures in the laboratory. The outcome after PGT in terms of clinical pregnancy per transfer is around 40% per embryo transfer and compares well with international data.

Conclusions

Preimplantation genetic testing is organized in rather few clinics in the Nordic countries and most of them use local laboratories for genetic analyses of the biopsies. Laboratory procedures are largely in accordance with international guidelines and the outcome after PGT in terms of clinical pregnancy per transfer is comparable to results in international reports.
Adjusting the dose in paediatric care by dispersing fragments of four different aspirin tablets
Authors: Brustugun Jørgen , Notaker Nikolai , Paetz Lasse Holtan , Tho Ingunn , Bjerknes Kathrin
Published: February 2020

Aim

Tablets can be manipulated in several ways to obtain a fraction as the dose—a practice frequently seen in paediatric care due to lack of suitable formulations. Splitting tablets prior to fragment dispersion in a small volume of liquid is one such method. The objective of this study was to investigate the accuracy and precision of this method.

Methods

Four different types of aspirin tablets (two dispersible, one conventional and one chewing) were split with a tablet splitter into half and quarter fragments. The fragments were dispersed in a medicine measure or an oral syringe. The amount recovered was determined by UHPLC analysis.

Results

The largest quarter fragments ranged from 26.7% to 31.5% of the full tablet weight. Dispersing the fragment in an oral syringe, the amount recovered was greater than 90.8% of the fragment manipulated for all four tablet types, when rinsing was performed. Dispersing the fragment in a medicine measure, the amounts recovered spanned from 32.9% for the conventional tablets to 98.7% for one of the dispersible tablets.

Conclusion

Dispersion of half or quarter tablets directly in an oral syringe, but not a medicine measure, could give satisfactory recovery from fragments of all the investigated aspirin tablets.
How the EMERGE guideline on medication adherence can improve the quality of clinical trials
Authors: Eliasson Lina , Clifford Sarah , Mulick Amy , Jackson Christina , Vrijens Bernard
Published: February 2020

Medication adherence in drug trials is suboptimal, affecting the quality of these studies and adding significant costs. Nonadherence in this setting can lead to null findings, unduly large sample sizes and the need for dose modification after a drug has been approved. Despite these drawbacks, adherence behaviours are not consistently measured, analysed or reported appropriately in trial settings. The ESPACOMP Medication Adherence Reporting Guideline (EMERGE) offers a solution by facilitating a sound protocol design that takes this crucial factor into account. This article summarises key evidence on traditional and newer measurements of adherence, discusses implementation in clinical trial settings and makes recommendations about the analysis and interpretation of adherence data. Given the potential benefits of this approach, the authors call on regulators and the pharmaceutical industry to endorse the EMERGE guideline.
The thermal maturity of sedimentary basins as revealed by magnetic mineralogy
Authors: Abdelmalak Mansour M. , Polteau Stéphane
Published: February 2020

The thermal evolution of sedimentary basins is usually constrained by maturity data, which is interpreted from Rock‐Eval pyrolysis and vitrinite reflectance analytical results on field or boreholes samples. However, some thermal evolution models may be inaccurate due to the use of elevated maturities measured in samples collected within an undetected metamorphic contact aureole surrounding a magmatic intrusion. In this context, we investigate the maturity and magnetic mineralogy of 16 claystone samples from Disko‐Svartenhuk Basin, part of the SE Baffin Bay volcanic margin. Samples were collected within thermal contact metamorphic aureoles near magma intrusions, as well as equivalent reference samples not affected by intrusions. Rock‐Eval pyrolysis (Tmax), and vitrinite reflectance (Ro) analysis were performed to assess the thermal maturity, which lies in the oil window when 435°C ≤ Tmax ≤ 470°C and 0.6%–0.7% ≤ Ro ≤ 1.3%. In addition, we performed low‐ (<300K) and high‐temperature (>300K) investigations of isothermal remanent magnetization to assess the magnetic mineralogy of the selected samples. The maturity results (0.37% ≤ Ro ≤ 2%, 22°C ≤ Tmax ≤ 604°C) show a predominance of immature to early mature Type III organic matter, but do not reliably identify the contact aureole when compared to the reference samples. The magnetic assemblage of the immature samples consists of iron sulphide (greigite), goethite and oxidized or non‐stoichiometric magnetite. The magnetic assemblage of the early mature to mature samples consists of stoichiometric magnetite and fine‐grained pyrrhotite (<1 μm). These results document the disappearance of the iron sulphide (greigite) and increase in content of magnetite during normal burial. On the other hand, magnetite is interpreted to be the dominant magnetic mineral inside the contact aureole surrounding dyke/sill intrusions where palaeotemperatures indicate mature to over‐mature state. Interestingly, the iron sulphide (greigite) is still detected in the contact aureole where palaeotemperatures exceeded 130°C. Therefore, the magnetic mineralogy is a sensitive method that can characterize normal burial history, as well as identify hidden metamorphic contact aureoles where the iron sulphide greigite is present at temperatures beyond its stability field.
Insect responses to heat: physiological mechanisms, evolution and ecological implications in a warming world
Authors: González‐Tokman Daniel , Córdoba‐Aguilar Alex , Dáttilo Wesley , Lira‐Noriega Andrés , Sánchez‐Guillén Rosa A. , Villalobos Fabricio
Published: February 2020

Surviving changing climate conditions is particularly difficult for organisms such as insects that depend on environmental temperature to regulate their physiological functions. Insects are extremely threatened by global warming, since many do not have enough physiological tolerance even to survive continuous exposure to the current maximum temperatures experienced in their habitats. Here, we review literature on the physiological mechanisms that regulate responses to heat and provide heat tolerance in insects: (i) neuronal mechanisms to detect and respond to heat; (ii) metabolic responses to heat; (iii) thermoregulation; (iv) stress responses to tolerate heat; and (v) hormones that coordinate developmental and behavioural responses at warm temperatures. Our review shows that, apart from the stress response mediated by heat shock proteins, the physiological mechanisms of heat tolerance in insects remain poorly studied. Based on life‐history theory, we discuss the costs of heat tolerance and the potential evolutionary mechanisms driving insect adaptations to high temperatures. Some insects may deal with ongoing global warming by the joint action of phenotypic plasticity and genetic adaptation. Plastic responses are limited and may not be by themselves enough to withstand ongoing warming trends. Although the evidence is still scarce and deserves further research in different insect taxa, genetic adaptation to high temperatures may result from rapid evolution. Finally, we emphasize the importance of incorporating physiological information for modelling species distributions and ecological interactions under global warming scenarios. This review identifies several open questions to improve our understanding of how insects respond physiologically to heat and the evolutionary and ecological consequences of those responses. Further lines of research are suggested at the species, order and class levels, with experimental and analytical approaches such as artificial selection, quantitative genetics and comparative analyses.
miR‐137 and its target T‐type CaV3.1 channel modulate dedifferentiation and proliferation of cerebrovascular smooth muscle cells in simulated microgravity rats by regulating calcineurin/NFAT pathway
Authors: Zhang Bin , Chen Li , Bai Yun‐Gang , Song Ji‐Bo , Cheng Jiu‐Hua , Ma Hong‐Zhe , Ma Jin , Xie Man‐Jiang
Published: February 2020

Objectives

Postflight orthostatic intolerance has been regarded as a major adverse effect after microgravity exposure, in which cerebrovascular adaptation plays a critical role. Our previous finding suggested that dedifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) might be one of the key contributors to cerebrovascular adaptation under simulated microgravity. This study was aimed to confirm this concept and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Materials and Methods

Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to 28‐day hindlimb‐unloading to simulate microgravity exposure. VSMC dedifferentiation was evaluated by ultrastructural analysis and contractile/synthetic maker detection. The role of T‐type CaV3.1 channel was revealed by assessing its blocking effects. MiR‐137 was identified as the upstream of CaV3.1 channel by luciferase assay and investigated by gain/loss‐of‐function approaches. Calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T lymphocytes (NFAT) pathway, the downstream of CaV3.1 channel, was investigated by detecting calcineurin activity and NFAT nuclear translocation.

Results

Simulated microgravity induced the dedifferentiation and proliferation in rat cerebral VSMCs. T‐type CaV3.1 channel promoted the dedifferentiation and proliferation of VSMC. MiR‐137 and calcineurin/NFATc3 pathway were the upstream and downstream signalling of T‐type CaV3.1 channel in modulating the dedifferentiation and proliferation of VSMCs, respectively.

Conclusions

The present work demonstrated that miR‐137 and its target T‐type CaV3.1 channel modulate the dedifferentiation and proliferation of rat cerebral VSMCs under simulated microgravity by regulating calcineurin/NFATc3 pathway.
924. BETULA CHICHIBUENSIS
Authors: McAllister Hugh
Published: February 2020

The very rare Japanese birch,Betula chichibuensisHara, is described and illustrated. It has become widely available since its 1986 introduction from seed, from a breeding population derived from the then single known wild stand. In 2015 it was reintroduced from further, recently discovered, wild populations.
Academic publishing in disaster risk reduction: past, present, and future
Authors: Alexander David , Gaillard JC , Kelman Ilan , Marincioni Fausto , Penning‐Rowsell Edmund , van Niekerk Dewald , Vinnell Lauren J.
Published: February 2020

Nowadays there are approximately 80 Anglophone journals that deal primarily with disaster risk reduction (DRR) and allied fields. This large array signals a sustained, if uneven, growth in DRR scholarship but also competition between the offerings of different publishers and institutions. The purpose of this article is first to summarise the development of academic publishing on DRR from its early beginnings to the present day. The paper then evaluates the current state of publishing in this field and discusses possible future trends. Next, it identifies some possible opportunities, challenges, expectations, and commitments for journal editors both within DRR and academia more broadly, including those that refer to changes in the use of terminology, the relentless increase in the number of papers submitted, the expansion and dangers of predatory journals, different peer review models, open access versus paywalls, citations and bibliography metrics, academic social networks, and copyright and distribution issues.
Localizing the Sustainable Development Goals: The case of Tanzania
Authors: Jönsson Kristina , Bexell Magdalena
Published: February 2020

Motivation

Despite increasing research on the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), there is a lack of attention to the role of political institutions in localizing the SDGs. By exploring localization of the 2030 Agenda in a concrete political context, we go beyond prior research that mainly studies interlinkages and discourses underpinning the agenda.

Purpose

This article explores political qualities of localization processes through three analytical concepts that bring such qualities to the fore—legitimacy, responsibility and accountability. We investigate localization attempts with regard to the 2030 Agenda in Tanzania, aiming to identify drivers and obstacles of localization.

Approaches and Methods

The article provides an explorative case study based on policy document review and 28 semi‐structured interviews with civil servants, parliamentarians, representatives from civil society organizations, the UN and other international agencies in Dar es Salaam and Dodoma between 2017 and 2019.

Findings

Elements of localization are policy alignment at the national level, work with statistics and indicators, and awareness creation among a variety of actors. Drivers of localization are the government, civil society organizations, the UN, members of parliament and demands for review at the UN High‐level Political Forum. Obstacles to localization are unclear allocation of responsibility, insufficient co‐ordination, high turnaround of people in key positions, a lack of data availability, low awareness of the SDGs among citizens, a shortage of resources and shrinking democratic space.

Policy Implications

We posit that a clear allocation of responsibility facilitates implementation and ensuing accountability measures. For localization to occur, knowledge of the SDGs must reach beyond a limited circle of elites. Moreover, it is important to acknowledge that sustainable development is a politically charged field. Political institutions at all levels should therefore be central arenas for debating and adopting the 2030 Agenda as part of its localization.
Teaching Hadoop Using Role Play Games
Authors: Yang Zhiguo , Guo Xiang
Published: February 2020

Hadoop is a well‐known big data system and a subject covered in many big data courses. This article describes two role play games for teaching the two fundamental components in the Hadoop framework, MapReduce and Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS). In the games, students form teams and play different roles as a part of a Hadoop cluster. The games are designed to let students collaborate with peers in the same way as MapReduce and HDFS components collaborate to perform computing jobs in a Hadoop cluster. Utilizing a computer communication channel, the games are designed to let students quickly and effectively understand typical MapReduce and HDFS operations. Survey results from students in two big data classes show that the games effectively improve learning outcome in understanding MapReduce and HDFS workflow and the Hadoop framework in general. Students appear more engaged in class activities and communicate with peers more often.
Need Satisfaction as a Mediator of Associations between Interparental Relationship Dimensions and Autonomy Supportive Parenting: A Weekly Diary Study
Authors: Koçak Aylin , Mouratidis Athanasios , Uçanok Zehra , Selcuk Emre , Davies Patrick T.
Published: February 2020

Guided by the self‐determination theory, this weekly diary study tested a process model in which week‐to‐week mother‐reported interparental conflict and perceived partner responsiveness were associated with maternal autonomy support by means of maternal psychological need satisfaction. During six consecutive weeks, 258 mothers (Mage = 41.71 years) and their 157 adolescents (51.4% females, Mage = 14.92 years) from Turkey provided weekly reports of the study variables via an online survey. Multilevel analyses showed that maternal need satisfaction was predicted by lower levels of interparental conflict and greater levels of perceived partner responsiveness. Maternal need satisfaction, in turn, was positively associated with maternal and adolescent reports of maternal autonomy support. Further, these week‐to‐week associations were partly moderated by maternal perfectionism. The results underscore the dynamic nature of the intra‐family relationships, the important role of particular conditions in which mothers may become more autonomy supportive, and the necessity to consider mother’s personal characteristics while examining these dynamics.
Ablation of the N terminus of cardiac essential light chain promotes the super‐relaxed state of myosin and counteracts hypercontractility in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy mutant mice
Authors: Sitbon Yoel H. , Kazmierczak Katarzyna , Liang Jingsheng , Yadav Sunil , Veerasammy Melanie , Kanashiro‐Takeuchi Rosemeire M. , Szczesna‐Cordary Danuta
Published: February 2020

In this study, we focus on the molecular mechanisms associated with the A57G (Ala57‐to‐Gly57) mutation in myosin essential light chains (ELCs), found to cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in humans and in mice. Specifically, we studied the effects of A57G on the super‐relaxed (SRX) state of myosin that may contribute to the hypercontractile cross‐bridge behavior and ultimately lead to pathological cardiac remodeling in transgenic Tg‐A57G mice. The disease model was compared to Tg‐WT mice, expressing the wild‐type human ventricular ELC, and analyzed against Tg‐Δ43 mice, expressing the N‐terminally truncated ELC, whose hearts hypertrophy with time but do not show any abnormalities in cardiac morphology or function. Our data suggest a new role for the N terminus of cardiac ELC (N‐ELC) in modulation of myosin cross‐bridge function in the healthy as well as in HCM myocardium. The lack of N‐ELC in Tg‐Δ43 mice was found to significantly stabilize the SRX state of myosin and increase the number of myosin heads occupying a low‐energy state. In agreement, Δ43 hearts showed significantly decreased ATP utilization and low actin‐activated myosin ATPase compared with A57G and WT hearts. The hypercontractile activity of A57G‐ELC cross‐bridges was manifested by the inhibition of the SRX state, increased number of myosin heads available for interaction with actin, and higher ATPase activity. Fiber mechanics studies, echocardiography examination, and assessment of fibrosis confirmed the development of two distinct forms of cardiac remodeling in these two ELC mouse models, with pathological cardiac hypertrophy in Tg‐A57G, and near physiologic cardiac growth in Tg‐Δ43 animals.
Field indicators of leaf nutritive value for perennial ryegrass and tall fescue pastures under different growing and management conditions
Authors: Insua Juan Ramón , Garcia Sergio Carlos , Berone Germán Darío , Basso Bruno , Utsumi Santiago A.
Published: February 2020

Field indicators of forage nutritive value could help farmers with rapid management decisions to optimize timing and intensity of grazing and meet objectives regarding animal nutrition. The objective of this research was to evaluate the likely relationships among leaf blade nutritive value, herbage mass and leaf stage of pasture regrowth under different growing seasons and residual sward heights. Experiments were performed on perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pastures during spring and summer of 2016. In both pastures, three residual sward height treatments (3, 6 and 12 cm) were imposed on plots arranged in a split plot design, replicated in three blocks. Sward plots were harvested 5–6 times at intervals spaced 7–10 days apart to measure herbage mass, plant morphology, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), and the 24‐hr in vitro digestibility of NDF (NDFD) and dry matter (DMD) of leaf blades. Pastures showed strong (R2: .62 to .70), but variable, negative relationships between NDFD and herbage mass that varied with the rate at which pasture grew in each season of experimentation. Although there was a consistent NDFD decline as leaf stage of regrowth progressed (R2: .75 to .97), the NDFD also decreased as residual sward height increased, most notably in tall fescue. Additionally, findings indicate that the greater leaf length plasticity of tall fescue compared to residual sward heights may offer opportunities to manage both post‐ and pre‐grazing targets to achieve tall fescue forages with a similar high nutritive value as perennial ryegrass. However, the evaluation of this hypothesis at the farm level and its impacts on animal intake and performance warrants further careful investigations.
Participatory implementation research in the field of migrant health: Sustainable changes and ripple effects over time
Authors: van den Muijsenbergh Maria E. T. C. , LeMaster Joseph W. , Shahiri Parmida , Brouwer Michelle , Hussain Mohammed , Dowrick Chris , Papadakaki Maria , Lionis Christos , MacFarlane Anne
Published: February 2020

Objective

This study aimed to explore whether positive impacts were sustained and unanticipated ripple effects had occurred four years after the implementation of interventions to improve cross‐cultural communication in primary care.

Background

Sustaining the implementation of change using complex interventions is challenging. The EU‐funded “RESTORE” study implemented guidelines and training on cross‐cultural communication in five Primary Care sites in Europe, combining implementation theory (Normalisation Process Theory) with participatory methodology (participatory learning and action—PLA). There were positive impacts on knowledge, skills and clinical routines.

Design, setting and participants

Four of the five original sites (England, Ireland, Greece, The Netherlands) were available for this qualitative follow‐up study. The study population (N = 44) was primary healthcare staff and migrants, most of whom had participated in RESTORE.

Intervention; main outcome measures

PLA‐style focus groups and interviews explored routine practice during consultations with migrants. Etic cards based on the effects of RESTORE stimulated the discussion. Deductive framework analysis was performed in each country followed by comparative data analysis and synthesis.

Results

Changes in knowledge, attitudes and behaviour with regard to consultations with migrants were sustained and migrants felt empowered by their participation in RESTORE. There were ongoing concerns about macro level factors, like the political climate and financial policies, negatively affecting migrant healthcare.

Conclusion

There were sustained effects in clinical settings, and additional unanticipated positive ripple effects, due in part, from the participatory approach employed.
Avian distraction displays: a review
Authors: Humphreys Rosalind K. , Ruxton Graeme D.
Published: February 2020

Distraction displays are conspicuous behaviours functioning to distract a predator's attention away from the displayer's nest or young, thereby reducing the chance of offspring being discovered and predated. Distraction is one of the riskier parental care tactics, as its success derives from the displaying parent becoming the focus of a predator's attention. Such displays are prominent in birds, primarily shorebirds, but the last comprehensive review of distraction was in 1984. Our review aims to provide an updated synthesis of what is known about distraction displays in birds, and to open up new areas of study by highlighting some of the key avenues to explore and the broadened ecological perspectives that could be adopted in future research. We begin by drawing attention to the flexibility of form that distraction displays can take and providing an overview of the different avian taxa known to use anti‐predator distraction displays, also examining species‐specific sex differences in use. We then explore the adaptive value and evolution of distraction displays, before considering the variation seen in the timing of their use over a reproductive cycle. An evaluation of the efficacy of distraction compared with alternative anti‐predator tactics is then conducted via a cost–benefit analysis. Distraction displays are also found in a handful of non‐avian taxa, and we briefly consider these unusual cases. We conclude by postulating why distraction is primarily an avian behaviour and set out our suggestions for future research into the evolution and ecology of avian distraction displays.
Economic bonding, corporate governance and earnings management: Evidence from UK publicly traded family firms
Authors: Al‐Okaily Jihad , BenYoussef Nourhene , Chahine Salim
Published: February 2020

This study examines whether auditor–client economic bonding and corporate governance moderate the adverse effects of principal–principal agency problems on earnings quality in U.K.‐listed family firms. We find that although earnings management is lower in family firms, there is a higher tendency of earnings management for those firms with economic bonding. However, such an impact may be moderated by good governance mechanisms where the latter may alleviate the adverse effects of the lack of auditor independence on the association between earnings management and family firms.