bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating the disease triangle framework for testing the effect of soil‐borne pathogens on tree species diversity
Authors: Liu Yu , He Fangliang
Published: April 2019

The enemy‐induced Janzen–Connell (JC) effect, a classic model invoking conspecific negative density dependence (CNDD) and distance dependence, is a primary biodiversity maintenance hypothesis. Yet, conflicting evidence for the JC effect leads to disagreement about its role in maintaining forest diversity.

We focus this review on soil‐borne pathogens, which are the primary agent inducing the JC effect in many forest ecosystems. Although the test of the pathogen‐induced JC effect in ecology critically rests on the seedling mortality caused by soil pathogens, what has not been explicitly explored in the early literature but has increasingly received attention is the long‐recognized fact that the environment can alter virulence of pathogens and host susceptibility (thus pathogen–host interactions), as predicted by the classic disease triangle framework enlightened by pathology research in agricultural systems.

Here, following the disease triangle framework we review evidence on how the pathogen‐induced JC effect may be contingent on context (e.g. environmental conditions, pathogen inoculum load and genetic divergence in host and pathogen populations). The reviewed evidence reveals and clarifies the conditions where pathogens may or may not cause disease to hosts, thus contributing to reconciling the inconsistent results about the pathogen‐induced JC effect in the literature. The context dependence of the disease triangle predicts that the pathogen‐induced JC effect would change under global change.

Gaining insights from evidence that the pathogen‐induced JC effect is context‐dependent, we suggest that future tests on the JC hypothesis be conducted under the framework of disease triangle, and we stress the necessity by controlling the effect of context factors on plant–pathogen interactions when testing for the JC effect. We conclude the review by proposing three lines of future research for testing the importance of the JC effect in maintaining global forest tree species diversity, with a particular emphasis on testing the effect of global warming on the strength of pathogen–host interactions for better predicting changes of forest biodiversity under climate change.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
The association between a nurse cushion plant and a cluster root‐bearing tree species alters the plant community structure
Authors: Piper Frida I. , Fajardo Alex , Baeza Gabriela , Cavieres Lohengrin A.
Published: April 2019

Several plant species have the potential to facilitate the presence of other plant species in the community, and yet most of our knowledge on this phenomenon comes from studies considering only one facilitator species. What happens when there are two facilitator species in the community? Are the facilitation effects by one species being altered by the presence of a potentially second facilitator species and vice‐versa (i.e. bidirectional facilitation)?

Knowing that cushion plants ameliorate stress and improve soil fertility and that cluster root‐bearing species mobilize soil phosphorus (P), we investigated the potential occurrence of bidirectional facilitation via stress amelioration and nutrient exchange in the cushion plant Acaena integerrima (Rosaceae) and the cluster root‐bearing tree species Embothrium coccineum (Proteaceae).

In southern Chile, where both species naturally occur, we compared aspects of the vegetative and reproductive performance of each species growing in association or not. We also determined if Embothrium alters the nurse effects of Acaena cushions on other species by evaluating species richness, frequency, and abundance in cushion plants with and without Embothrium. To infer the existence of nutrient exchange, we determined soil and leaf nutrient levels of both species.

Species richness, frequency and abundance were higher within than outside Acaena cushions. Although the presence of Embothrium did not enhance the overall positive effects of Acaena on species composition, nine species occurred more frequently when Embothrium was present. Embothrium occurred more frequently and had a higher survival and leaf nitrogen (N) concentration when growing with Acaena than without it, although its growth and leaf P concentration were lower. In contrast, Acaena had a lower number of and mass of fruits per inflorescence and a higher leaf P concentration when growing with versus growing without Embothrium.

Synthesis. The cushion plant Acaena integerrima facilitates the occurrence of many species in the community, including the cluster root‐bearing species Embothrium coccineum, which in turn enhances the facilitation effect of Acaena on certain species. When Embothrium and Acaena occur together, the latter improves its nutritional status but reduces its fitness, implying a lack of bidirectional facilitation.
The Thinking Frames Approach: a case study of inclusion using student‐generated multiple‐representations
Authors: McLure Felicity
Published: April 2019

Many teachers struggle to provide equitable opportunities for students with special educational needs (SEN) to learn science concepts in the inclusive classroom. This study examines the experience of teaching in an inclusive classroom using a conceptual change approach, the Thinking Frames Approach (TFA), incorporating the use of discrepant events, social construction of scientific conceptions followed by the production of multiple student‐generated representations of their understanding. An in‐depth case study is presented of the experience of Wayne, a student with complex SEN and the effect on his behaviour and science learning based on video/audio recordings of lessons, teacher journal entries, student artefacts, questionnaire results and interviews. It was found that there were positive effects for Wayne's learning using this approach including improved behaviour, greater feelings of self‐efficacy, increased participation in small group and class discussions and improved outcomes on the same assessment tasks as peers. It is suggested that the structured approach of the TFA, the communication of understanding in different modalities, particularly drawing, and the support of peers enabled Wayne to more deeply engage in construction of understanding and may provide teachers with an easy and effective approach to authentic inclusion where real conceptual gains are made by all students.
Untargeted Metabolite Profiling of Adipose Tissue in Hyperlipidemia Rats Exposed to Hawthorn Ethanol Extracts
Authors: Hu Chuanqin , Zhang Yu , Liu Guorong , Liu Yingli , Wang Jing , Sun Baoguo
Published: April 2019

The study aimed to explore the metabolic changes of adipose tissue of hyperlipidemia rats with hawthorn ethanol extracts (HEE) consumption by a high‐throughput metabolomics approach. HEE were mainly composed of chlorogenic acid, hyperoside, isoquercitrin, rutin, vitexin, quercetin, and apigenin by HPLC analysis. HEE administration significantly lowered levels of the total cholesterols, triglyceride and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol as compared to the high‐fat diet model. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry was used to identify adipose metabolite profiles. Numerous endogenous molecules were altered by high‐fat diet and restored following intervention of HEE. Metabolites elevated in adipose, includingl‐threonine, aspartic acid, glutamine, mannose, inositol and oleic acid, were detected after HEE consumption. Fifteen metabolites were identified as potential biomarkers of hyperlipidemia. Pathway analysis showed that most of the discriminant metabolites were included in fatty acid biosynthesis, galactose metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, arginine and proline metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism and steroid biosynthesis. These metabolites and metabolic networks we found offer new insights into exploring the molecular mechanisms of lipid‐lowering of hawthorn ethanol extracts on adipose tissue of rats.

Practical Application

There was a very high proportion of hyperlipidemia in China. Hawthorn is attracting increasing attention owing to their health benefits, low toxicity, effectiveness and might be suitable for long‐term use.
Impact of e‐scooter injuries on Emergency Department imaging
Authors: Mayhew Laura J , Bergin Colleen
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Since the introduction of a shared e‐scooter service to Auckland in October there have been multiple media reports of associated injuries, but no quantitation of the number or severity of these injuries, or the impact on hospital emergency department services in Auckland.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review on all patients referred to Auckland hospital ED radiology with the indication containing ‘e‐scooter’ between 15 August 2018 and 15 December 2018. All requests were screened to ensure that the injury was caused by an e‐scooter. Recorded data included patient demographics, type of imaging utilised, injury type, and whether admission or surgery was required.

Results

Sixty‐four patients met the inclusion criteria, only one of these was prior to introduction of shared e‐scooters on 15 October 2018. Of these, there were 27 limb fractures, 3 dislocations, a fractured spine, 12 patients with concussion, 1 extra‐dural bleed, 9 facial/skull fractures and multiple soft tissue injuries. Almost 40% of the patients required admission to a specialty service following imaging, and 25.4% required surgery. A total of 221 plain films and 47 CT scans were performed for e‐scooter injuries in the 2‐month period after their introduction.

Conclusion

Introduction of shared e‐scooters has resulted in a large number of serious related injuries that have required urgent radiology imaging. Many of these patients required further specialist consultation or surgery, and place an increased burden on overstretched emergency department services.
Reflections on the Field: The Democratic Citizenship Formation of Transnational Youth
Authors: Dyrness Andrea , Abu El‐Haj Thea Renda
Published: April 2019

This article addresses a gap between discussions of transnationalism in our field that largely remain focused on implications for educational attainment and current political discourses about immigrant youth and citizenship. Drawing on insights from our own research with transnational youth, we suggest that their experiences in transnational social fields offers them unique forms of critical consciousness, civic and political awareness, and commitment to democratic rights that are foundational for active democratic citizenship.
Ventriculo‐amniotic shunting for severe fetal ventriculomegaly
Authors: Litwinska Magdalena , Litwinska Ewelina , Czaj Marta , Polis Bartosz , Polis Lech , Szaflik Krzysztof
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Severe fetal cerebral ventriculomegaly, observed in about 1 in 1000 newborns, is associated with a high risk of perinatal death and neurodevelopmental delay in survivors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of ventriculo‐amniotic shunting for drainage of severe fetal cerebral ventriculomegaly and the neurodevelopment of survivors at the age of 2 years.

Material and methods

This was a retrospective study of 44 fetuses with severe bilateral ventriculomegaly treated with ventriculo‐amniotic shunting in a tertiary fetal therapy center between 2010 and 2015.

Results

Shunt insertion was successfully carried out at a median gestational age of 25 weeks (range 20‐33 weeks). There were three fetal deaths within 24 hours of the procedure and 41 live births at a median gestational age of 37 weeks (range 28‐39 weeks). Neurodevelopment at 2 years of age was evaluated using the Bayley scale in the 38 survivors. In the 27 cases with isolated ventriculomegaly 19 (70.4%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 51.5%‐84.2%) had normal or mild neurodevelopmental delay and 8 (29.6%; 95% CI 15.6%‐48.5%) were moderately or severely delayed. In the 11 with non‐isolated ventriculomegaly 2 (18.2%; 95% CI 5.1%‐4.8%) had normal or mild neurodevelopmental delay and 9 (81.8%; 95% CI 52.3%‐94.9%) babies were moderately or severely delayed.

Conclusions

Ventriculo‐amniotic shunting is an option for the management of severe ventriculomegaly and results in normalization of the ventricular diameter. However, a high proportion of survivors have neurodevelopmental delay and the possible beneficial effect of ventriculo‐amniotic shunting needs to be assessed by randomized studies.
It's Time to Think about Time in Health Psychology
Authors: Scholz Urte
Published: April 2019

This position paper addresses the need for stronger theorizing on temporal matters in health psychology. Too few theories in health psychology address temporal matters in the specified psychological phenomena, their relationships, and the explanation for these relationships. This might lead to underestimating existing relationships between constructs over time or missing out on opportunities for advancing our knowledge with regard to dynamic developments of the phenomena of interest. Examples of existing theories and approaches addressing temporal matters in health psychology are provided. Further, drawing from other disciplines, examples of methodological and conceptual approaches are outlined that offer directions on how to optimize our theories with regard to temporal matters. This might start with including time‐related theoretical considerations to the definition of psychological concepts already in cross‐sectional research and might reach as far as developing dynamic theories for capturing and changing phenomena of interest in real life. Challenges and opportunities of theorizing about temporal matters in health psychology are addressed.
Fabrication of Chitosan/Polypyrrole‐coated poly(L‐lactic acid)/Polycaprolactone aligned fibre films for enhancement of neural cell compatibility and neurite growth
Authors: Xu Yaxuan , Huang Zhongbing , Pu Ximing , Yin Guangfu , Zhang Jiankai
Published: April 2019

Objective

Chitosan (CS) and polycaprolactone (PCL) were added into a nerve scaffold of poly(L‐lactide acid) (PLLA)/polypyrrole (PPy)‐based fibre films to solve the unmatch with the nerve strength and the aseptic inflammation from PLLA.

Methods

Poly (L‐lactide acid)‐polycaprolactone (PLLA/PCL) fibre films coated with chitosan (CS) and polypyrrole (PPy) were prepared by electrospinning of aligned PLLA/PCL fibres, electrochemical deposition of PPy nanoparticles and in situ doping of CS in PPy. PC12 cells were electrically stimulated with 100 mV for 2 hours every day via CS/PPy‐PLLA/PCL fibre film to promote the neurite growth.

Results

The surface conductivity and tensile strength of CS/PPy‐PLLA/PCL fibre films were 1.03 s/m and 13 MPa, respectively. CS content in fibre films was about 7.5 mg/cm2, improving the pH value (reached to 5.1) of immersion solution of the fibre film at 16 days. Compared with PPy‐PLLA/PCL fibre film, more and longer axons were grown out from PC12 cells cultured on CS/PPy‐PLLA/PCL fibre film, indicating the positive effect of CS in fibre film on axon growth. The cell differentiation rate and neurite length on CS/PPy‐PLLA/PCL fibre film reached to 38% and 75 μm, respectively. These results suggest the promotion of electrical stimulation on neurite growth and alignment.

Conclusions

A synergistic mechanism about the promotion of CS, electrical stimulation and aligned fibres on PC12 cells differentiation, axon outgrowth was proposed. These results indicated the potential application of CS/PPy‐PLLA/PCL fibre film in the field of the nerve repair and regeneration.
Land‐sharing potential of large carnivores in human‐modified landscapes of western India
Authors: Majgaonkar Iravatee , Vaidyanathan Srinivas , Srivathsa Arjun , Shivakumar Shweta , Limaye Sunil , Athreya Vidya
Published: April 2019

The current protected area (PA) network is not sufficient to ensure long‐term persistence of wide‐ranging carnivore populations. Within India, this is particularly the case for species that inhabit nonforested areas since PAs disproportionately over‐represent forested ecosystems. With growing consideration of human‐use landscapes as potential habitats for adaptable large carnivores, India provides a model for studying them in densely populated landscapes, where there is little understanding about human‐carnivore interactions in shared spaces. Using key informant interviews and an occupancy modeling framework, we assessed the distribution of three large carnivore species, the leopard Panthera pardus, Indian grey Wolf Canis lupus pallipes, and striped hyena Hyaena hyaena, across a ~89,000 km2 semiarid multiuse landscape in western India, and quantified ecological drivers of their presence. The three species occupied 57% (leopard), 64% (wolf), and 75% (hyena) of the landscape of which only 2.6% area is protected as national parks or wildlife sanctuaries. The presence of the three carnivores was differentially favored by certain types of agriculture, while populations of domestic livestock supported them in this landscape with low densities of large wild prey. Our results demonstrate the adaptability of large carnivores in human‐modified landscapes, and we call for an expansion of the current conservation narratives that currently focus on forested PAs, to include the high potential that anthropogenic landscapes offer as habitats where people and predators can co‐adapt and persist.
Beyond Alternative Food Networks: Understanding Motivations to Participate in Orti Urbani in Palermo
Authors: Migliore Giuseppina , Romeo Pietro , Testa Riccardo , Schifani Giorgio
Published: April 2019

Community gardens include many benefits, and different motivations seem to underline citizens’ choices to participate. In Italy, political motivations are considered one of the main reasons for participation in community gardens (known as orti urbani). Drawing from the orti urbani experience in Palermo (the largest city in Sicily, Southern Italy), this study aims to understand the main motivations that influence citizens’ participation and to measure the effects of these motivations on fruit and vegetable consumption among participants. Findings reveal that orti urbani attract middle‐class participants who possess high amounts of cultural capital but relatively less financial capital. Among the motivations affecting the citizens’ participation, eating safe food is the most important one. Orti urbani represent a solution to the increasing concerns about the safety of food and the urban environment.
STOP‐GO MONETARY POLICY
Authors: Chappell Henry W. , Harris Mark N. , McGregor Rob Roy , Spencer Christopher
Published: April 2019

We propose and estimate several discrete choice models of monetary policy decision‐making that feature time‐varying inertia. The models permit us to account for three stylized facts characterizing monetary policymaking in the United States: (1) target interest rates are gradually adjusted in small discrete movements, (2) there are some long stretches of time in which rates are repeatedly moved, and (3) there are other long stretches in which the policy rate does not change. The models are used to account for delayed monetary policy responses to the recession of 2001 and to the housing‐driven expansion of 2003–2006. (JEL E52, E58, E65)
Influence of smoking on CYP2C19 genetic variants and clopidogrel efficacy in patients with minor stroke or transient ischaemic attack
Authors: Wang T. , Pan Y. , Lin J. , Anand R. , Wang D. , Johnston S. C. , Meng X. , Li H. , Zhao X. , Liu L. , Wang Y. , Wang Y. ,   on behalf of the CHANCE investigators
Published: April 2019

Background and purpose

Studies suggest that smoking affects clopidogrel efficacy. However, whether it influences the association between CYP2C19 genetic variants and clopidogrel efficacy is not clear.

Methods

In total, 2961 patients from the CHANCE trial were involved in this substudy and were successfully genotyped for two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms of CYP2C19 (*2 and *3). The Cox proportional risk regression model was used to evaluate the interactions between CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3 carrier status and clopidogrel efficacy stratified by smoking status.

Results

There were marginal significant interactions between CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3 allele carrier status and antiplatelet treatment regimen for the risk of recurrent stroke and composite events (P = 0.054, P = 0.051, respectively) amongst smokers, but not in non‐smokers. Amongst smokers, clopidogrel plus aspirin decreased the recurrence rate of stroke compared with aspirin alone in non‐carriers (3.8% vs. 11.8%, hazard ratio 0.32, 95% confidence interval 0.15–0.65, P = 0.002), but not in carriers. Similar results were also found for the recurrence rate of composite events in smokers. No significant difference was found for hemorrhage events in any group.

Conclusions

Amongst patients with minor stroke or transient ischaemic attack, marginal significant interactions between CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3 allele carrier status and clopidogrel efficacy were found in smokers but not in non‐smokers. Amongst smokers, clopidogrel plus aspirin might decrease the recurrence rate of stroke in non‐carriers of *2 and *3 alleles of CYP2C19 compared with aspirin alone. However, caution should be taken to interpret our findings in view of several limitations in our study.
Judicial protection of fundamental rights in the transition from the world of atoms to the word of bits: The case of freedom of speech
Authors: Pollicino Oreste
Published: April 2019

This article underlines the role of Courts in protecting fundamental rights in the atomic and the digital dimension. The main aim of this work is to show how the coming of the Internet has affected the exercise and the judicial protection of freedom of expression in a comparative perspective. In order to answer this research question, this study will focus on the role of Courts as ‘playmakers’ in interpreting and solving issues deriving from interconnected legal regimes affecting the protection of fundamental rights and, especially, free speech. More specifically, the comparative focus will be on the decisions of the European Court of Justice, the European Court of Human Right and the US Supreme Court.
Social Justice and the Future of Healthy Families: Sociocultural Changes and Challenges
Authors: Russell Stephen T.
Published: April 2019

Given the pace of social changes, meanings of “family” and what makes a family healthy are changing. How can these changing meanings and understandings contribute to social justice for all families? First, I acknowledge how my personal history has intersected with research I do on youth and families. I define social justice with respect to healthy families, and then consider how contemporary scholarship helps define, redefine, and refine what is meant by “family.” Examples are presented from research on cultural influences on parenting; parenting in same‐sex couple or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) families; and coming out in adolescence as LGBTQ. These examples illustrate how the notion of family is defined, redefined, and refined to provide new vantage points on the complexities, possibilities, and potential for social justice among contemporary families, especially those that are marginalized.
Structural basis for the Target DNA recognition and binding by the MYB domain of phosphate starvation response 1
Authors: Jiang Meiqin , Sun Lifang , Isupov Michail N. , Littlechild Jennifer A. , Wu Xiuling , Wang Qianchao , Wang Qin , Yang Wendi , Wu Yunkun
Published: April 2019

The phosphate starvation response 1 (PHR1) protein has a central role in mediating the response to phosphate starvation in plants. PHR1 is composed of a number of domains including a MYB domain involved with DNA binding and a coiled‐coil domain proposed to be involved with dimer formation. PHR1 binds to the promoter of phosphate starvation‐induced genes to control the levels of phosphate required for nutrition. Previous studies have shown that both the MYB domain and the coiled‐coil domain of PHR1 are required for binding the target DNA. Here, we describe the crystal structure of the PHR1 MYB domain and two structures of its complex with the PHR1‐binding DNA sequence (P1BS). Structural and isothermal titration calorimetry has been carried out showing that the MYB domain of PHR1 alone is sufficient for target DNA recognition and binding. Two copies of the PHR1 MYB domain bind to the same major groove of the P1BS DNA with few direct interactions between the individual MYB domains. In addition, the PHR1 MYB–P1BS DNA complex structures reveal amino acid residues involved in DNA recognition and binding. Mutagenesis of these residues results in lost or impaired ability of PHR1 MYB to bind to its target DNA. The results presented reveal the structural basis for DNA recognition by the PHR1 MYB domain and demonstrate that two PHR1 MYB domains attach to their P1BS DNA targeting sequence.

Database

Coordinates and structure factors have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank under accession codes 6J4K (PHR1 MYB), 6J4R (PHR1 MYB‐R‐P1BS), 6J5B (MYB‐CC‐R2‐P1BS).
Real effects of reporting key audit matters on auditors' judgment and choice of action
Authors: Asbahr Karsten , Ruhnke Klaus
Published: April 2019

This experimental study analyzes whether reporting an accounting estimate as a key audit matter (KAM) can influence auditor judgment about the accounting estimate and the corresponding action. We find that skeptical action in the form of proposed adjustment amounts is significantly lower when the accounting estimate is reported as a KAM. Thus, the disclosure of a KAM can serve as a moral license to waive an adjustment. Taking into account that the KAM disclosure does not affect auditors' skeptical judgments in the form of a reasonableness assessment of the accounting estimate, our results indicate the existence of a judgment–action gap. Furthermore, implicit client pressure does not enlarge the moral licensing effect of the KAM disclosure. We also find evidence that audit effort is not affected by reporting a KAM. Overall, our study contributes to the current debate about the audit reporting model by showing that reporting a KAM might have unintended “real effects” on auditors' actions.
Development of low‐alcohol isotonic beer by interrupted fermentation
Authors: De Fusco Deborah Oliveira , Madaleno Leonardo Lucas , Del Bianchi Vanildo Luiz , Bernardo Aline da Silva , Assis Rafael Roberto , de Almeida Teixeira Gustavo Henrique
Published: April 2019

Alcohol‐free beer with isotonic properties is getting more popular and its production can be carried out by different production strategies; however, interrupted fermentation is still a challenge. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a low‐alcohol isotonic beer (<0.5% v/v) by interrupted fermentation. Moreover, the major objective is to compare the developed product to commercial beverages (sports drinks, ‘Pilsen' regular beer, alcohol‐free beers and low‐alcohol isotonic beer). The beverages were evaluated based on pH, alcohol content (% v/v), total titratable acidity (mEq L−1), osmolality (mOsmol kg−1), bitterness International Bitterness Units, colour European Brewery Convention, total phenolic compounds (mg L−1 gallic acid), reducing and total sugars (%) and Na and K contents (mg L−1). The developed low‐alcohol isotonic beer presented characteristics similar to sports drinks, with the advantage of being richer in phenolic compounds and suitable osmolality. Despite salts were added in its formulation, the grades attributed to all beers employed in the sensory evaluation, as well as the purchase intention did not present significant differences.
Impact of pre‐treatment (soaking or germination) on nutrient and anti‐nutrient contents, cooking time and acceptability of cooked red dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) grown in Ethiopia
Authors: Haileslassie Hiwot Abebe , Henry Carol J. , Tyler Robert T.
Published: April 2019

Pulses are processed in diverse ways prior to consumption. Soaking and germination are among the most common traditional, household‐level food processing strategies. This study was carried out to determine the effects of soaking, germination, cooking and their combinations on the contents of selected nutrients and anti‐nutrients of red dry bean and chickpea. In addition, the effects of pre‐treatment on cooking time and the acceptability of dishes prepared from red dry bean and chickpea were determined. The nutrient compositions (zinc, iron and calcium) of most soaked‐cooked and germinated‐cooked red dry bean and chickpea samples were not significantly different than those of respective controls. However, soaking and germination pre‐treatments significantly lowered the phytate and tannin contents of the red dry bean and chickpea samples, with a few exceptions, and overall, polyphenol contents were lower after soaking‐cooking than after germination‐cooking. Most scores for sensory attributes of bean‐based and chickpea‐based dishes prepared from soaked or germinated samples were not significantly different than those of the controls. For most red dry bean and chickpea samples, longer germination times yielded superior results in terms of reductions in cooking time, tannin content, and phytate:zinc and phytate:iron molar ratio.
Derived esterase activity inDrosophila sechelliacontributes to evolved octanoic acid resistance
Authors: Lanno S. M. , Coolon J. D.
Published: April 2019

The dietary specialist fruit flyDrosophila sechelliahas evolved resistance to the secondary defence compounds produced by the fruit of its host plant,Morinda citrifolia. The primary chemicals that contribute to lethality ofM. citrifoliaare the medium‐chain fatty acids octanoic acid (OA) and hexanoic acid. At least five genomic regions contribute to this adaptation inD. sechelliaand whereas the fine‐mapped major effect locus for OA resistance on chromosome 3R has been thoroughly analysed, the remaining four genomic regions that contribute to toxin resistance remain uncharacterized. To begin to identify the genetic basis of toxin resistance in this species, we removed the function of well‐known detoxification gene families to determine whether they contribute to toxin resistance. Previous work found that evolution of cytochrome P450 enzymatic activity or expression is not responsible for the OA resistance inD. sechellia. Here, we tested the role of the two other major detoxification gene families in resistance toMorindafruit toxins – glutathione‐S‐transferases and esterases – through the use of the pesticide synergists diethyl maleate and tribufos that inhibit the function of these gene families. This work suggests that one or more esterase(s) contribute to evolved OA resistance inD. sechellia.
Effects of IL‐10‐ and FasL‐overexpressing dendritic cells on liver transplantation tolerance in a heterotopic liver transplantation rat model
Authors: Chen Lihong , Zhang Lina , Zhu Zhu , He Wubing , Gao Lingyun , Zhang Wenmin , Liu Jingfeng , Huang Aimin
Published: April 2019

Acute rejection is the major determinant for the long‐term survival of donor liver after liver transplantation (LT). The aim of this study was to examine the therapeutic potential of interleukin (IL)‐10‐FasL‐overexpressing immature dendritic cells (imDCs) to induce local immunosuppression in liver grafts. imDCs derived from donors were transduced by lentiviral vectors expressing human IL‐10 and/or Fas ligand (FasL) gene(s), and the expression of surface molecules and the ability to induce T‐cell proliferation were measured. imDCs were intraperitoneally injected into recipient rats as a model of LT to examine the rejection grade [Banff rejection activity index (RAI)], liver functions [Alanine aminotransferase, Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and total bilirubin (TBIL)] and post‐transplant survival. IL‐10 and FasL co‐transduction of imDCs induced a greater reduction in CD80, CD86 and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) expression, as well as T‐cell proliferation, but increased levels of IL‐10 and FasL in culture supernatants compared with mono‐transduced or untransduced imDCs (P < 0.05). The infusion of co‐transduced imDCs in LT recipients reduced RAI scores, decreased plasma AST and TBIL, and prolonged survival compared with mono‐transduced or untransduced imDC‐treated liver allografts. These findings demonstrated that the transfusion of IL‐10‐FasL/imDCs enhanced immune tolerance and prolonged the survival of liver allografts after LT. The immunomodulatory activity of IL‐10‐ and FasL‐modified imDCs might be a new therapeutic approach to prevent organ rejection in clinical transplantation.
Remodeling of reactive lymph nodes: Dynamics of stromal cells and underlying chemokine signaling
Authors: Thierry Guilhem R. , Gentek Rebecca , Bajenoff Marc
Published: April 2019

Lymph nodes (LNs) are secondary immune organs dispersed throughout the body. They are primarily composed of lymphocytes, “transient passengers” that are only present for a few hours. During this time, they extensively interact with a meshwork of stromal cells. Although these cells constitute less than 5% of all LN cells, they are integral to LN function: Stromal cells create a three‐dimensional network that provides a rigid backbone for the transport of lymph and generates “roads” for lymphocyte migration. Beyond structural support, the LN stroma also produces survival signals for lymphocytes and provides nutrients, soluble factors, antigens, and immune cells collectively required for immune surveillance and the generation of adaptive immune responses. A unique feature of LNs is their ability to considerably and rapidly change size: the volume and cellularity of inflamed LNs can increase up to 20‐fold before returning to homeostatic levels. This cycle will be repeated many times during life and is accommodated by stromal cells. The dynamics underlying this dramatic remodeling are subject of this review. We will first introduce the main types of LN stromal cells and explain their known functions. We will then discuss how these cells enable LN growth during immune responses, with a particular focus on underlying cellular mechanisms and molecular cues. Similarly, we will elaborate on stromal dynamics mediating the return to LN homeostasis, a process that is mechanistically much less understood than LN expansion.
Guidance factors orchestrating regulatory T cell positioning in tissues during development, homeostasis, and response
Authors: Mempel Thorsten R. , Marangoni Francesco
Published: April 2019

Over their lifetime, regulatory T cells (Treg) recalibrate their expression of trafficking receptors multiple times as they progress through development, respond to immune challenges, or adapt to the requirements of functioning in various non‐lymphoid tissue environments. These trafficking receptors, which include chemokine receptors and other G‐protein coupled receptors, integrins, as well as selectins and their ligands, enable Treg not only to enter appropriate tissues from the bloodstream via post‐capillary venules, but also to navigate these tissues to locally execute their immune‐regulatory functions, and finally to seek out the right antigen‐presenting cells and interact with these, in part in order to receive the signals that sustain their survival, proliferation, and functional activity, in part in order to execute their immuno‐regulatory function by altering antigen presenting cell function. Here, we will review our current knowledge of when and in what ways Treg alter their trafficking properties. We will focus on the chemokine system and try to identify specialized, non‐redundant roles of individual receptors as well as similarities and differences to the conventional T cell compartment.
On the Impacts of Overconfidence under Information Diversity*
Authors: Zhou Deqing , Zhen Fang
Published: April 2019

This work examines the competition between two groups of overconfident agents when they are informed with different dimensional information. Their strategies could be complementary through a “liquidity improvement effect.” When agents informed in one‐dimension trade more aggressively due to overconfidence, the market liquidity could be improved and agents informed in the other dimension would also trade more aggressively and become better off. In addition, increasing one group's population and information precision could also benefit the other group, while these impacts are mitigated by the overestimation of one's own group population.
Formation of (Al2OC)1−x(AlN)x solid solution starting from Al–Si–Al2O3 powder matrix at 1300°C in flowing nitrogen
Authors: Ma Chenhong , Li Yong , Zhang Lixin , Xue Wendong , Sun Jialin
Published: April 2019

(Al2OC)1−x(AlN)x solid solution‐reinforced Si–Al2O3 composite was successfully synthesized by designed heating of the Al–Si–Al2O3 composite to 580°C and held for 8 hours, followed by heating to 1300°C at a rate of 12°C/h in flowing nitrogen. The reaction mechanism is as follows: after the Al–Si–Al2O3 composite is heated to 580°C and held for 8 hours, an AlN cladding is formed on the surface of the Al powder, thus the composite is preconverted into (Al–AlN cladding structure)–Si–Al2O3 system. With increasing temperature, the AlN cladding ruptures and the reactive Al(l) flows out. The Al(l) preferentially undergoes active oxidation to form metastable Al2O(g), which lowers PO2 inside the composite and inhibits the active oxidation of Si. Moreover, ultrafine carbon is produced by the pyrolysis of the phenolic resin binder. Both metastable Al2O(g) and ultrafine carbon are highly reactive. Therefore, under the induction of AlN and N2, (Al2OC)1−x(AlN)x solid solution is formed by the reaction which easily occurs at a relatively low temperature. In the presence of a large amount of Al2O(g), the PO2 in the composite does not satisfy the condition required for both Si nitridation and active oxidation, so the free Si remains stable in the composite, forming a metal‐non‐oxide‐oxide composite. The cold crushing strength of the composites is up to 305 MPa, and the composites do not show hydration after 20 months of storage in the environment.
The phytochemical polydatin ameliorates non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis by restoring lysosomal function and autophagic flux
Authors: Chen Xiaoting , Chan Hung , Zhang Lin , Liu Xiaodong , Ho Idy H. T. , Zhang Xiang , Ho Jeffery , Hu Wei , Tian Yuanyuan , Kou Shanglong , Chan Chee Sam , Yu Jun , Wong Sunny H. , Gin Tony , Chan Matthew T. V. , Sun Xuegang , Wu William K. K.
Published: April 2019

Impaired autophagic degradation of intracellular lipids is causally linked to the development of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Pharmacological agents that can restore hepatic autophagic flux could therefore have therapeutic potentials for this increasingly prevalent disease. Herein, we investigated the effects of polydatin, a natural precursor of resveratrol, in a murine nutritional model of NASH and a cell line model of steatosis. Results showed that oral administration of polydatin protected against hepatic lipid accumulation and alleviated inflammation and hepatocyte damage in db/db mice fed methionine‐choline deficient diet. Polydatin also alleviated palmitic acid‐induced lipid accumulation in cultured hepatocytes. In both models, polydatin restored lysosomal function and autophagic flux that were impaired by NASH or steatosis. Mechanistically, polydatin inhibited mTOR signalling and up‐regulated the expression and activity of TFEB, a known master regulator of lysosomal function. In conclusion, polydatin ameliorated NASH through restoring autophagic flux. The polydatin‐regulated autophagy was associated with inhibition of mTOR pathway and restoration of lysosomal function by TFEB. Our study provided affirmative preclinical evidence to inform future clinical trials for examining the potential anti‐NASH effect of polydatin in humans.
Validation and psychometric evaluation of a brief screening questionnaire for psychological distress in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Nearchou F. , D'Alton P. , Donnelly A. , O’Driscoll L. , O’Flanagan S. , Kirby B.
Published: April 2019

Background

Patients with psoriasis are at risk of a co‐morbid diagnosis of depression and/or anxiety. It is therefore essential for dermatologists to have valid and effective instruments that can screen and monitor depression and anxiety symptoms in psoriasis patients.

Objective

The aim of this study was to validate the Mental Health Inventory (MHI‐5) as a brief measure that can be used to evaluate psychological distress related to anxiety and depression in psoriasis patients.

Methods

The sample included 76 adult dermatological outpatients diagnosed with psoriasis. Participants completed the MHI‐5, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and six subscales of the Self‐Compassion Scale (SCS). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was applied to examine the factor structure of MHI‐5. Convergent validity was examined by applying correlations among all measures. Discriminant validity was examined by applying hierarchical regression models. Reliability was examined by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the proposed one‐factor model has a good fit to the data. The MHI‐5 demonstrated satisfactory convergent validity by yielding significant moderate to strong correlations with the HADS and with the positive and negative subscales of the SCS. Discriminant validity was also evident with being at risk of anxiety predicting MHI‐5 scores above and beyond the effect of gender and age. Hierarchical regressions were not performed because a very small number of participants (n = 3) were classified at risk of depression. The MHI‐5 showed high internal consistency (α = 0.84).

Conclusion

This investigation provided evidence that MHI‐5 is a reliable and valid instrument that can be used to effectively capture psychological distress in psoriasis patients.
Synergistic osmoregulatory dysfunction during salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) and infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus co‐infection in sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) smolts
Authors: Long Amy , Garver Kyle A. , Jones Simon R. M.
Published: April 2019

While co‐infections are common in both wild and cultured fish, knowledge of the interactive effects of multiple pathogens on host physiology, gene expression and immune response is limited. To evaluate the impact of co‐infection on host survival, physiology and gene expression, sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka smolts were infected with the salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis (V−/SL+), infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV; V+/SL−), both (V+/SL+), or neither (V−/SL−). Survival in the V+/SL+ group was significantly lower than the V−/SL− and V−/SL+ groups (p = 0.024). Co‐infected salmon had elevated osmoregulatory indicators and lowered haematocrit values as compared to the uninfected control. Expression of 12 genes associated with the host immune response was analysed in anterior kidney and skin. The only evidence of L. salmonis‐induced modulation of the host antiviral response was down‐regulation of mhc I although the possibility of modulation cannot be ruled out for mx‐1 and rsad2. Co‐infection did not influence the expression of genes associated with the host response to L. salmonis. Therefore, we conclude that the reduced survival in co‐infected sockeye salmon resulted from the osmoregulatory consequences of the sea lice infections which were amplified due to infection with IHNV.
Effect of Subjective and Objective Sleep Quality on Subsequent Peptic Ulcer Recurrence in Older Adults
Authors: Fang Boye , Liu Huiying , Yang Shuyan , Xu Ruirui , Chen Gengzhen
Published: April 2019

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of subjective and objective sleep quality on subsequent recurrence of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) among older patients after Helicobacter pylori eradication.

SETTING

Eight grade A hospitals in China.

PARTICIPANTS

Of 1689 older Chinese with H. pylori–infected PUD recruited between January 2011 and October 2014, H. pylori were eradicated and PUD was cleared in 1538 patients by the end of 2014; 1420 of these patients were followed up for up to 36 months.

MEASUREMENTS

Using multiple measures at 6‐month intervals, PUD recurrence was determined with esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Subjective sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Objective sleep quality domains were measured using an accelerometer, including sleep onset latency, sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and number of awakenings.

RESULTS

This study documented a 36‐month cumulative PUD recurrence of 8.3% (annual rate = 2.8%). Multivariate analyses showed that participants who reported poorer sleep quality were more likely to experience PUD recurrence during the 36‐month follow‐up period (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.895; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.008‐3.327). Regarding objective sleep quality domains, longer sleep onset latency (HR = 1.558; 95% CI = 1.156‐2.278) and more nighttime awakenings (HR = 1.697; 95% CI = 1.168‐2.665) increased the risk of PUD recurrence. However, a longer total sleeping time protected against PUD recurrence (HR = 0.768; 95% CI = 0.699‐0.885).

CONCLUSIONS

Poor sleep quality predicts a greater risk of PUD recurrence. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatments should, therefore, be provided for older adults afflicted with poor sleep, particularly for those who previously had PUD. It is equally important to include sleep assessment as an integral part while dealing with these patients.
Cumulative Prognostic Score Predicting Mortality in Patients Older Than 80 Years Admitted to the ICU
Authors: de Lange Dylan W. , Brinkman Sylvia , Flaatten Hans , Boumendil Ariane , Morandi Alessandro , Andersen Finn H. , Artigas Antonio , Bertolini Guido , Cecconi Maurizio , Christensen Steffen , Faraldi Loredana , Fjølner Jesper , Jung Christian , Marsh Brian , Moreno Rui , Oeyen Sandra , Öhman Christina Agvald , Bollen Pinto Bernardo , de Smet Anne Marie G.A. , Soliman Ivo W. , Szczeklik Wojciech , Valentin Andreas , Watson Ximena , Zafeiridis Tilemachos , Guidet Bertrand ,   On behalf of the VIP1 Study Group
Published: April 2019

OBJECTIVES

To develop a scoring system model that predicts mortality within 30 days of admission of patients older than 80 years admitted to intensive care units (ICUs).

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

A total of 306 ICUs from 24 European countries.

PARTICIPANTS

Older adults admitted to European ICUs (N = 3730; median age = 84 years [interquartile range = 81‐87 y]; 51.8% male).

MEASUREMENTS

Overall, 24 variables available during ICU admission were included as potential predictive variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of 30‐day mortality. Model sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were evaluated with receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

The 30‐day‐mortality was 1562 (41.9%). In multivariable analysis, these variables were selected as independent predictors of mortality: age, sex, ICU admission diagnosis, Clinical Frailty Scale, Sequential Organ Failure Score, invasive mechanical ventilation, and renal replacement therapy. The discrimination, accuracy, and calibration of the model were good: the area under the curve for a score of 10 or higher was .80, and the Brier score was .18. At a cut point of 10 or higher (75% of all patients), the model predicts 30‐day mortality in 91.1% of all patients who die.

CONCLUSION

A predictive model of cumulative events predicts 30‐day mortality in patients older than 80 years admitted to ICUs. Future studies should include other potential predictor variables including functional status, presence of advance care plans, and assessment of each patient's decision‐making capacity.