bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospital admission for neurologic disorders among 5‐year survivors of noncentral nervous system tumors in childhood: A cohort study within the Adult Life after Childhood Cancer in Scandinavia study
Authors: Kenborg Line , Linnet Karen M. , de Fine Licht Sofie , Bautz Andrea , Holmqvist Anna S. , Tryggvadottir Laufey , Madanat‐Harjuoja Laura M. , Stovall Marilyn , Heilmann Carsten , Albieri Vanna , Hasle Henrik , Winther Jeanette F. ,   on behalf of the ALiCCS study group
Published: April 2019

Large, comprehensive studies of the risk for neurologic disorders among long‐term survivors of noncentral nervous system (CNS) childhood cancers are lacking. Thus, the aim of our study was to assess the lifetime risk of Nordic non‐CNS childhood cancer survivors for neurologic disorders. We identified 15,967 5‐year survivors of non‐CNS childhood cancer diagnosed in Denmark, Iceland, Finland and Sweden in 1943–2008, and 151,118 matched population comparison subjects. In‐patient discharge diagnoses of neurologic disorders were used to calculate relative risks (RRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs). A neurologic disorder was diagnosed in 755 of the survivors while 370 were expected, yielding a RR of 2.0 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.9–2.2). The highest risks were found among survivors of neuroblastoma (4.1; 95% CI 3.2–5.3) and leukemia (2.8; 95% CI 2.4–3.2). The AER decreased from 331 (278–383) excess neurologic disorders per 100,000 person‐years 5–9 years after diagnosis to 82 (46–118) ≥ 20 years after diagnosis. Epilepsy was the most common diagnosis (n = 229, 1.4% of all survivors), and significantly increased risks were seen among survivors of eight out of 12 types of childhood cancer. Survivors of neuroblastoma had remarkably high risks (RR ≥ 10) for hospitalization for paralytic syndromes and hydrocephalus, while survivors of leukemia had additional high risks for dementia and encephalopathy. In conclusion, survivors of non‐CNS childhood cancer are at high risk for neurologic disorders, especially within the first decade after diagnosis. Therefore, intensive follow‐up to identify those who require close management is needed.
Steiner system‐based topology‐transparent priority scheduling for wireless ad hoc networks
Authors: Dash Dipti , Sanyal Debarshi Kumar
Published: April 2019

Topology‐transparent scheduling (TTS) for wireless networks involves generation of schedules which do not need update even when the network topology is constantly changing. TTS schemes designed with Steiner systems support the largest number of nodes—among all cover‐free families—for a given frame length. In this paper, we propose a TTS scheme using Steiner systems for a network in which nodes are divided into multiple classes of different priorities. Our proposed scheme called “Steiner system‐based Topology‐transparent Priority Scheduling” (STPS) produces priority‐sensitive schedules using different Steiner systems for the different priority classes. We explain our proposed method through illustrative examples and show its superiority over a competitive scheme in the literature with respect to the frame length.
Measuring expansion from macro‐ to nanoscale using NPC as intrinsic reporter
Authors: Pesce Luca , Cozzolino Marco , Lanzanò Luca , Diaspro Alberto , Bianchini Paolo
Published: April 2019

Expansion microscopy is a super‐resolution method that allows expanding uniformly biological samples, by increasing the relative distances among fluorescent molecules labeling specific components. One of the main concerns in this approach regards the isotropic behavior at the nanoscale. The present study aims to determine the robustness of such a technique, quantifying the expansion parameters i.e. scale factor, isotropy, uniformity. Our focus is on the nuclear pore complex (NPC), as well‐known nanoscale component endowed of a preserved and symmetrical structure localized on the nuclear envelope. Here, we show that Nup153 is a good reporter to quantitatively address the isotropy of the expansion process. The quantitative analysis carried out on NPCs, at different spatial scales, allows concluding that expansion microscopy can be used at the nanoscale to measure subcellular features with an accuracy from 10 to 5 nm. Therefore, it is an excellent method for structural studies of macromolecular complexes.
First clinical application of octacalcium phosphate collagen composite on bone regeneration in maxillary sinus floor augmentation: A prospective, single‐arm, open‐label clinical trial
Authors: Miura Kei‐ichiro , Sumita Yoshinori , Kajii Fumihiko , Tanaka Hidenori , Kamakura Shinji , Asahina Izumi
Published: April 2019

The overall objective of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of OCP/Col as a bone substitute material for bone regeneration during sinus floor augmentation. Maxillary sinus floor augmentation was performed thorough lateral window approach. According to the height of host bone, simultaneous approach (≥5 mm) or staged approach (less than 5 mm) was applied. In this research, clinical findings of dental implant treatment after setting the restorations were set as a primary endpoint in both approaches (infection, inflammation around the implant, movement of the implant, pain, sensory disorder, and bone resorption around the implant body on radiological evaluation.). In staged approach, histological evaluation of bone biopsy specimen was also conducted. As secondary endpoints, hounsfield unit (HU) value, vertical bone height, implant stability quotient (ISQ), and adverse events during the research were evaluated. In all cases, as a primary endpoint, clinical findings after setting the restorations were uneventful with no adverse events. Histological structure demonstrated mature bone derived from OCP/Col. In the ossified area, osteogenesis was observed around OCP granules, and osteoblast‐like cells were arrayed around OCP granules. Osteocyte encapsulation was recognized in the new bone. HU increased over time with both approaches. Vertical bone height significantly increased at 3 months postoperatively, and maintained during follow‐up. ISQ increased with both approaches. In particular, ISQ was significantly increased with the staged approach. This clinical trial demonstrated the safety and efficacy of OCP/Col for bone regeneration in maxillary sinus floor augmentation. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 108B:243–252, 2020.
The destabilization of hydrogen bonds in an external E‐field for improved switch performance
Authors: Xu Tianlv , Momen Roya , Azizi Alireza , van Mourik Tanja , Früchtl Herbert , Kirk Steven R. , Jenkins Samantha
Published: April 2019

The effect of an electric field on a recently proposed molecular switch based on a quinone analogue was investigated using next‐generation quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) methodology. The reversal of a homogenous external electric field was demonstrated to improve the “OFF” functioning of the switch. This was achieved by destabilization of the H atom participating in the tautomerization process along the hydrogen bond that defines the switch. The “ON” functioning of the switch, from the position of the tautomerization barrier, is also improved by the reversal of the homogenous external electric field: this result was previously inaccessible. The “ON” and “OFF” functioning of the switch was visualized in terms of the response of the most preferred directions of motion of the electronic charge density to the applied external field. All measures from QTAIM and the stress tensor provide consistent results for the factors affecting the “ON” and “OFF” switch performance. Our analysis therefore demonstrates use for future design of molecular electronic devices. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The maximum number of columns in supersaturated designs with
Authors: Morales Luis B. , Bulutoglu Dursun A. , Arasu K. T.
Published: April 2019

Cheng and Tang [Biometrika, 88 (2001), pp. 1169–1174] derived an upper bound on the maximum number of columns that can be accommodated in a two‐symbol supersaturated design (SSD) for a given number of rows () and a maximum in absolute value correlation between any two columns (). In particular, they proved that for (mod ) and . However, the only known SSD satisfying this upper bound is when . By utilizing a computer search, we prove that for , and . These results are obtained by proving the nonexistence of certain resolvable incomplete blocks designs. The combinatorial properties of the RIBDs are used to reduce the search space. Our results improve the lower bound for SSDs with rows and columns, for , and . Finally, we show that a skew‐type Hadamard matrix of order can be used to construct an SSD with rows and columns that proves . Hence, we establish for and for all (mod ) such that . Our result also implies that when is a prime power and (mod ). We conjecture that for all and (mod ), where is the maximum number of equiangular lines in with pairwise angle .
Acculturation and adjustment of migrants reporting trauma: The contextual effects of perceived ethnic density
Authors: Jurcik Tomas , Sunohara Momoka , Yakobov Esther , Solopieiva‐Jurcikova Ielyzaveta , Ahmed Rana , Ryder Andrew G.
Published: April 2019

Little is known about the relation between acculturation and socioecological contexts of migrants with a personal trauma history living in the community. This study represents an extension of our previous work and aimed to unpack the perceived neighborhood ethnic density (ED) effect and examine the moderating role of ED on the acculturation–adjustment relation in a community sample of migrants with trauma (N = 99) from developing countries residing in Montreal, Canada. ED was protective against general psychological distress but did not predict posttraumatic symptoms. The ED effect was mediated via degree of acculturation to the French–Canadian mainstream cultural context, rather than heritage acculturation, social support, or discrimination. Moreover, protective effects of French–Canadian mainstream acculturation for depressive symptoms and life satisfaction were found under high but not low ED conditions. Similarities and differences with our previous research as well as theoretical and prevention implications are discussed from a person–environment interaction perspective.
Associations between sense of community and wellbeing: A comprehensive variable and person‐centered exploration
Authors: Coulombe Simon , Krzesni David A.
Published: April 2019

Aims

The study aims to better understand the relationship between sense of community (SOC) and wellbeing from multiple analytical perspectives, considering different aspects of wellbeing and individual contextual factors.

Methods

Four hundred and ninety‐one adults from Québec, Canada, completed an online survey, and 296 also completed it a month later. We explored 1) cross‐sectional associations between SOC and wellbeing, 2) latent profiles of people, underlying the association between SOC and wellbeing, and 3) cross‐lagged relationships between SOC and wellbeing.

Results

Correlation and regression showed that SOC and wellbeing were related cross‐sectionally, although the association with negative wellbeing was weaker. Latent profile analysis identified four profiles showing differing SOC‐wellbeing associations. Cross‐lagged analyses showed that over time, SOC only marginally predicted emotional wellbeing but that wellbeing systematically predicted SOC.

Conclusion

Researchers and psychologists should acknowledge the complexity of relationships between SOC and wellbeing using person‐centered perspectives. Social justice and wellbeing promotion implications are discussed.
Vitamin C protects against defects induced by juglone during porcine oocyte maturation
Authors: Zhang Xue , Li Weijian , Sun Xiaofan , Li Juan , Wu Wangjun , Liu Honglin
Published: April 2019

Juglone, a naphthoquinone isolated from many species of the Juglandaceae family, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries because of its antiviral, antibacterial, and antitumor activities. However, the toxicity of juglone has also been demonstrated. Here, we used porcine oocytes as a model to explore the effects of juglone on oocyte maturation and studied the impact of vitamin C (VC) administration on juglone exposure‐induced meiosis defects. Exposure to juglone significantly restricted cumulus cell expansion and decreased the first polar body extrusion. In addition, juglone exposure disturbed spindle organization, actin assembly, and the distribution of mitochondria during oocyte meiosis, while the acetylation level of α‐tubulin was also reduced. These defects were all ameliorated by VC administration. Our findings indicate that juglone exposure induced meiotic failure in porcine oocytes, while VC protected against these defects during porcine oocyte maturation by ameliorating the organization of the cytoskeleton and mitochondrial distribution.
Osteocytic connexin 43 channels affect fracture healing
Authors: Chen Yunhe , Chen Meng , Xue Tong , Li Guobin , Wang Dongen , Shang Peng , Jiang Jean X. , Xu Huiyun
Published: April 2019

The cross‐talk between cells is very critical for moving forward fracture healing in an orderly manner. Connexin (Cx) 43‐formed gap junctions and hemichannels mediate the communication between adjacent cells and cells and extracellular environment. Loss of Cx43 in osteoblasts/osteocytes results in delayed fracture healing. For investigating the role of two channels in osteocytes in bone repair, two transgenic mouse models with Cx43 dominant negative mutants driven by a 10 kb‐DMP1 promoter were generated: R76W (gap junctions are blocked, whereas hemichannels are promoted) and Δ130–136 (both gap junctions and hemichannels are blocked). R76W mice (promotion of hemichannels) showed a significant increase of new bone formation, whereas delayed osteoclastogenesis and healing was observed in Δ130–136 (impairment of gap junctions), but not in R76W mice (hemichannel promotion may recover the delay). These results suggest that gap junctions and hemichannels play some similar and cooperative roles in bone repair.
CHIP attenuates lipopolysaccharide‐induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis by promoting NFATc3 proteasomal degradation
Authors: Chao Chun‐Nun , Lai Chao‐Hung , Badrealam Khan Farheen , Lo Jeng‐Fan , Shen Chia‐Yao , Chen Chia‐Hua , Chen Ray‐Jade , Viswanadha Vijaya Padma , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: April 2019

Carboxyl‐terminus of Hsc70 interacting protein (CHIP) is a chaperone‐dependent E3‐ubiquitin ligase with important function in protein quality control system. In the current research endeavor, we have investigated the putative role of CHIP in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐induced cardiomyopathies. Basically, H9c2 cardiomyoblasts were transfected with CHIP for 24 hr, and thereafter, treated with LPS for 12 hr. Concomitantly, western blot analysis, actin staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, and coimmunoprecipitation studies were performed to investigate the underlying intricacies. Interestingly, western blot analysis revealed that the expression of hypertrophy and apoptosis‐related proteins were considerably reduced following overexpression of CHIP. Moreover, Actin staining and TUNEL assay further ascertained the attenuation of cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis following overexpression of CHIP respectively. These aspects instigate the role of CHIP in attenuation of LPS‐induced cardiomyopathies. Additionally and importantly, co‐immunoprecipitation and western blot studies revealed that CHIP plausibly promotes degradation of nuclear factor of activated T cells 3 (NFATc3) through ubiquitin‐proteasomal pathway. Taken together, our study reveals that CHIP attenuates LPS‐induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis perhaps by promoting NFATc3 proteasomal degradation.
Forkhead box o3a suppresses lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated proliferation and inflammation in fibroblast‐like synoviocytes through regulating tripartite motif‐containing protein 3
Authors: Wang Mingjun , Wu Jian , Zhou Erye , Chang Xin , Gan Jianhe , Cheng Tao
Published: April 2019

Fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS), synovial tissue‐specific cells, are key effector cells during the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our previous study has shown that tripartite motif‐containing protein 3 (TRIM3) overexpression inhibits the proliferation and cytokine secretion of RA FLS. Experiments with gene knockout mice have suggested the important roles of forkhead box o3a (Foxo3a) in RA pathogenesis. The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between Foxo3a and TRIM3 during RA pathogenesis. The expression of Foxo3a and TRIM3 was reduced in RA synovial tissues in comparison to healthy controls, and Foxo3a messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in RA synovial tissues correlated positively with TRIM3 mRNA expression. We found that stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) caused the downregulation of Foxo3a and TRIM3 in FLS. Foxo3a or TRIM3 overexpression significantly attenuated the promoting effects of LPS on cell proliferation and the release of tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and IL‐1β. In addition, Foxo3a suppressed the inhibitory effects of LPS on the mRNA and protein levels of TRIM3, as well as the activity of TRIM3 promoter. Foxo3a or TRIM3 overexpression attenuated collagen‐induced arthritis in rats. Furthermore, knockdown of TRIM3 significantly suppressed the effects of Foxo3a overexpression on LPS‐activated FLS. In summary, our findings suggested that Foxo3a exerted inhibitory effects on LPS‐induced proliferation and inflammation through increasing TRIM3 transcription. The decreased expression of Foxo3a may contribute to the RA pathogenesis.
Long noncoding RNA TUG1 regulates the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma through sponging miR‐524‐5p to mediate DLX1 expression as a competitive endogenous RNA
Authors: Liu Shuyan , Liu Li‐Hong , Hu Wei‐Wei , Wang Meng
Published: April 2019

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) exerts a potential regulatory role in tumorigenesis. LncRNA TUG1 expression remains high in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues. However, its biological mechanism in OSCC remains unknown. In this study, TUG1 expression in OSCC cells was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Proliferative and migratory potentials of OSCC cells were determined by Cell Counting Kit 8, 5‐Ethynyl‐2′‐ deoxyuridine (EdU), and Transwell assay, respectively. We identified the potential target of TUG1 through bioinformatics and dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. Furthermore, their interaction and functions in regulating the development of OSCC were clarified by western blot and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. Our results demonstrated a high expression of TUG1 in OSCC cells. Overexpression of TUG1 markedly accelerated proliferative and migratory potentials of OSCC cells. Besides, TUG1 could positively regulate the expression of distal‐less homeobox 1 (DLX1) by competing with miR‐524‐5p. These results indicated that TUG1 participated in the development of OSCC as a competing endogenous RNA to competitively bind to miR‐524‐5p and thus mediate DLX1 expression.
The role of cell adhesion in hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis
Authors: Heath Jessica L. , Cohn Gabriel M. , Zaidi Sayyed K. , Stein Gary S.
Published: April 2019

The cells of the bone marrow microenvironment are emerging as important contributors and regulators of normal hematopoiesis. This microenvironment is perturbed during leukemogenesis, and evidence points toward a bidirectional communication between leukemia cells and the normal cells of the bone marrow, mediated by direct cell–cell contact as well as soluble factors. These interactions are increasingly appreciated to play a role in leukemogenesis and possibly in resistance to chemotherapy. In fact, several compounds that specifically target the bone marrow microenvironment, including inhibitors of cell adhesion, are being tested as adjuncts to leukemia therapy.
Non‐viral nucleic acid delivery to the central nervous system and brain tumors
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Huang Rongqin
Published: April 2019

Gene therapy is a rapidly emerging remedial route for many serious incurable diseases, such as central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Currently, nucleic acid medicines, including DNAs encoding therapeutic or destructive proteins, small interfering RNAs or microRNAs, have been successfully delivered to the CNS with gene delivery vectors using various routes of administration and have subsequently exhibited remarkable therapeutic efficiency. Among these vectors, non‐viral vectors are favorable for delivering genes into the CNS as a result of their many special characteristics, such as low toxicity and pre‐existing immunogenicity, high gene loading efficiency and easy surface modification. In this review, we highlight the main types of therapeutic genes that have been applied in the therapy of CNS diseases and then outline non‐viral gene delivery vectors.
Prognostic value of adjacent organ resection in patients with left‐sided pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma following distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Song Ki Byung , Kwon Jaewoo , Kim Yong Woon , Hwang Dae Wook , Lee Jae Hoon , Hong Sarang , Lee Jong Woo , Hwang Kyungyeon , Yoo Daegwang , Kim Song Cheol
Published: April 2019

Background

We evaluated whether distal pancreatectomy (DP) with adjacent organ resection (AOR) affected perioperative outcomes and survival in patients with left‐sided pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study was conducted at single large volume academic medical center from January 2000 to December 2016.

Results

Five hundred and twenty‐three patients had undergone standard DP (without additional vessel/organ resection) and 40 had undergone DP with AOR due to adjacent organ infiltration. There were no differences of postoperative morbidity and hospital stay between the two groups. In the patients with AJCC 8th stage I and II PDAC, there were significant differences of median disease‐specific and progression‐free survivals between the standard and AOR groups (37.9 vs. 20.2 months; P = 0.05, 20 vs. 10 months; P = 0.028, respectively). DP with AOR was identified as independent prognostic factor of stage I and II PDAC by multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Conclusions

Distal pancreatectomy with AOR could be an acceptable surgical treatment for left‐sided PDAC. However, AOR group shows poor prognosis than that of the standard group in patients with AJCC 8th stage I and II PDAC. AOR should be considered indicative of a more aggressive tumor in AJCC 8th stage I and II PDAC.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Studies of Some N‐thiazolyl Hydrazones and Indenopyrazolones
Authors: Mor Satbir , Sindhu Suchita , Nagoria Savita , Khatri Mohini , Garg Prabha , Sandhu Hardeep , Kumar Anil
Published: April 2019

Two new series of N‐thiazolyl hydrazones (3a–h) and indenopyrazolones (4a–h) were synthesized by the reaction of various 2‐acyl‐(1H)‐indene‐1,3(2H)‐diones, thiosemicarbazide, and phenacyl bromide/substituted phenacyl bromides. The in vitro antimicrobial activity of these synthesized compounds was assayed against four bacteria, namely, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and two fungi, namely, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger, by employing serial dilution method. Ciprofloxacin and fluconazole were used as antibacterial and antifungal reference drugs, respectively. Results of antimicrobial assay showed that the tested compounds have broad range of activity. The compounds 3h and 4a against C. albicans displayed more potency than fluconazole whereas 3b and 3c against B. subtilis showed activity comparable with ciprofloxacin. The synthesized indenopyrazolones (4a–h) were evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant activity by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay using ascorbic acid as reference. Compound 4b exhibited the highest 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging with IC50 value 33.14 μg/mL. The observed results of antimicrobial activity were supported by molecular docking study performed to understand the binding interaction of hydrazones (3a–h) and indenopyrazolones (4a–h) with lanosterol 14α‐demethylase.
Clinical feasibility study of 3D intracranial magnetic resonance angiography using compressed sensing
Authors: Lin Zhiyong , Zhang Xiaodong , Guo Li , Wang Ke , Jiang Yuan , Hu Xiaoyu , Huang Yong , Wei Juan , Ma Shuai , Liu Yi , Zhu Lina , Zhuo Zhizheng , Liu Jing , Wang Xiaoying
Published: April 2019

Background

Compressed sensing (CS) has been widely used to improve the speed of MRI, but the feasibility of application in 3D intracranial MR angiography (MRA) needs to be evaluated in clinical practice.

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical feasibility of CS‐MRA in comparison with conventional 3D‐MRA (Con‐MRA).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Forty‐nine consecutive patients with suspected intracranial arterial disease.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T MRI. 3D time‐of‐flight (TOF) MRA using a CS algorithm and conventional 3D TOF MRA scan.

Assessment

Three radiologists (4, 11, and 12 years of experience in neuroradiology) independently assessed the image quality, vascular lesions, and variations of intracranial arteries of both CS‐MRA and Con‐MRA, respectively.

Statistical Tests

The Kendall W test was performed to assess the interobserver agreement of image quality and intracranial arterial stenosis. A nonparametric test (Wilcoxon test) was used for comparison of the image quality and definition of the external carotid artery (ECA). Weighted kappa analysis was performed for the interstudy agreement of intracranial arterial stenosis. The aneurysm, decreased branches, congenital hypoplasia, absence, and variant branching of intracranial arteries were observed and evaluated for interobserver agreement and interstudy agreement by kappa analysis. Paired‐t‐tests for signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) were conducted.

Results

Image quality is better for CS‐MRA compared with Con‐MRA with significance (Z = –3.710 to –2.673, with P < 0.01). The interstudy agreement of lesion and variation of intracranial arteries assessment for each observer was excellent. The SNR and CNR were significantly higher in CS‐MRA compared with Con‐MRA (P < 0.001). The definition of ECA of CS‐MRA was significantly better (Z = –4.9, P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

CS‐MRA showed significantly higher image quality with less blur, comparable image diagnostic performance of intracranial arteries, and better display of ECA than Con‐MRA.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1843–1851.
Characterization of cadmium‐resistant rhizobacteria and their promotion effects on Brassica napus growth and cadmium uptake
Authors: Li Xingjie , Yan Zhenning , Gu Daguo , Li Dongbo , Tao Yu , Zhang Daofeng , Su Liantai , Ao Yansong
Published: April 2019

Excessive cadmium (Cd) accumulation in soil can adversely affect plants, animals, microbes, and humans; therefore, novel and uncharacterized Cd‐resistant plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are required to address this issue. In the paper, 13 bacteria were screened, their partial 16S rRNA sequences determined, and the isolates, respectively, clustered into Curtobacterium (7), Chryseobacterium (4), Cupriavidus (1), and Sphingomonas (1). Evaluation of PGP traits, including indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) production, 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity, siderophore secretion, and cyanhydric acid production, identified Cupriavidus necator GX_5, Sphingomonas sp. GX_15, and Curtobacterium sp. GX_31 as promising candidates for PGPR based on high IAA or ACC deaminase production. Additionally, root‐elongation assays indicated that inoculating GX_5, _15, or _31 increased Brassica napus root length both in the presence and absence of Cd by 19.75–29.96% and 19.15–31.69%, respectively. Pot experiments indicated that inoculating B. napus with GX_5, _15, and _31 significantly increased the dry weight of above‐ground tissues and root biomass by 40.97–85.55% and 18.99–103.13%, respectively. Moreover, these isolates significantly increased Cd uptake in the aerial parts and root tissue of B. napus by 7.38–11.98% and 48.09–79.73%, respectively. These results identified GX_5, _15, or _31 as excellent promoters of metal remediation by using microorganism‐associated phytoremediation.
Utilization of carbon sources in the rice rhizosphere and nonrhizosphere soils with different long‐term fertilization management
Authors: Tang Haiming , Xiao Xiaoping , Xu Yilan , Li Chao , Cheng Kaikai , Pan Xiaochen , Li Weiyan
Published: April 2019

Carbon (C) plays an important role in the interaction between plant and rhizosphere microbial communities, but there is still limited information about how C source utilization soil microbial structure responds to soil fertility changes under the double‐cropping rice (Oryza sativa L.) system in Southern China paddy fields. Therefore, the effects of long‐term (33 years) fertilizer regimes on the characteristics of C utilization in both rhizosphere and nonrhizosphere soils under double‐cropping rice fields in Southern China were investigated by using the metagenome sequencing technology. The experiment began in 1986, and included five fertilizer treatments: without fertilizer input (CK), chemical fertilizer alone (MF), rice straw residue and chemical fertilizer (RF), 30% organic matter, and 70% chemical fertilizer (LOM), and 60% organic matter and 40% chemical fertilizer (HOM). The results showed that the relative abundance of Gemmatimonadetes and Planctomycetia in both the rhizosphere and nonrhizosphere soils was increased by application of rice straw residue and organic manure, whereas the relative abundance of Gammaproteobacteria and Nitrospira was promoted by application of inorganic fertilizers. The largest group of clusters of orthologous groups of proteins categories was “amino acid transport and metabolism” with 16.46% unigenes, followed by “general function prediction only” (12.23%). Regarding the gene ontology categories, biological process were the largest category (174 949, 46.40%), followed by cellular component (126 766, 33.62%), and molecular function (110 353, 29.26%). The principal coordinate analysis indicated that different parts of the root zone were the most important factors affecting the variation of C source utilization bacteria community, and the different fertilizer treatments were the second important factor affecting the variation of C source utilization bacteria community. As a result, the application of fertilization practices had significant effects on the abundance and community composition of C source utilization microbes in paddy soils. The results showed that the combined application of rice straw residue or organic manure with chemical fertilizer practices significantly increases the C source utilization of soil microorganisms in double‐cropping rice fields.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi serve as keystone taxa for revegetation on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Qin Mingsen , Shi Guoxi , Zhang Qi , Meng Yiming , Liu Yongjun , Pan Jianbin , Jiang Shengjing , Zhou Guoying , Feng Huyuan
Published: April 2019

Revegetation is widely used to enhance degraded topsoil recovery with the enhancements of soil nutrient accumulation and soil structure stabilization. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are important for the allocation of carbon into the soil and the formation of soil aggregates. Thus, we hypothesized that AMF could construct more niches for other microbes during revegetation, making AMF keystone taxa of soil. Soil fungal and bacterial communities were investigated under a revegetation experiment and correlation networks between soil fungi and bacteria were constructed. Simultaneously, the plant growth level, soil properties and structure, and soil microbial carbon decomposition abilities were measured. The results revealed that AMF were the most central fungi at the phylum (degree = 3), class (degree = 11), and family (degree = 15) levels. The reads number of AMF were positively correlated with both fungal (R2 = 0.431, P < 0.001) and bacterial (R2 = 0.106, P = 0.044) richness. Higher colonization of AMF in roots and/or more AMF extraradical mycelium and spores in soil indicated a better plant growth, more stable soil aggregates, and a higher carbon decomposition ratio. Our results highlight that AMF are keystone taxa in revegetation, as they play significant roles in enhancing the recovery of the belowground microbiome diversity, soil structure stability, and nutrients cycling. The positive roles of AMF in revegetation support the application of AMF in ecosystem recovery.
Verifying the biocontrol activity of novel film‐forming formulations of Candida sake CPA‐1: resilience in relation to environmental factors, rainfall episodes, and control of Botrytis cinerea on different hosts
Authors: Carbó Anna , Teixidó Neus , Usall Josep , Torres Rosario
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of Candida sake CPA‐1 as a biocontrol agent against several diseases has been studied since it was isolated 20 years ago. However, it was only recently that two suitable and effective film‐forming formulations based on potato starch and maltodextrins were developed using the fluidized‐bed spray‐drying system. The present work aimed to confirm the capability of both novel formulations by testing their resilience on grapes at different temperatures (0, 22, and 30 °C), relative humidities (40% and 85%), and simulated rainfall levels. Another objective was to examine the control of Botrytis cinerea in different hosts.

RESULTS

The CPA‐1 cells from both dried formulations survived better than the liquid formulation on grapes stored at 0 and 22 °C regardless of the relative humidity. After simulated rainfall, potato starch formulation achieved significantly higher populations than maltodextrin formulation, although the highest reduction was −1.6 log N N0−1. A positive effect of cell establishment prior to the simulated rainfall was shown, and recovered cells from the potato starch formulation were significantly higher after 72 h of cell establishment. Finally, both formulations reduced the incidence and severity of B. cinerea on pears, apples, and tomatoes.

CONCLUSION

The potential of these novel film‐forming formulations of C. sake CPA‐1 was verified. The resilience of formulated C. sake was better than the commercialized liquid formulation, the adherence of the formulations to the grapes improved after an establishment period prior to rain exposure, and the control of B. cinerea was verified in a wider range of hosts. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemical characteristics of grapes cv. Syrah (Vitis vinifera L.) grown in the tropical semiarid region of Brazil (Pernambuco state): influence of rootstock and harvest season
Authors: de Oliveira Juliane Barreto , Egipto Ricardo , Laureano Olga , de Castro Rogério , Pereira Giuliano Elias , Ricardo‐da‐Silva Jorge Manuel
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Obtaining two or more successive annual vintages from the same vineyard is characteristic of regions with a tropical climate, such as the Submédio of the São Francisco Valley, Brazil. The present study aimed to characterize the chemical composition of grapes in four production cycles (i.e. two calendar years) when considering the interaction between cv. Syrah and two rootstocks. For a broad characterization, two methodologies for the extraction of phenolic compounds were used, as well as different methods of analysis.

RESULTS

The results obtained showed that there was an influence of rootstock and harvest season. Grapes from vines grafted onto IAC 313 contained higher concentrations of total condensed tannins (skins) and flavanols than grapes from vines grafted onto 1103P. However, the grape samples from the vines grafted onto 1103P contained higher levels of monomeric anthocyanins than the grape samples from the vines grafted onto IAC 313. The first harvest season was characterized by higher concentrations of most phenolic compounds than the second harvest season.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, it was possible to confirm that, in the semiarid region of Brazil, the interaction between the cultivar Syrah and the different rootstocks, as well as the climatic conditions in each harvest season, influenced the composition of the grapes, mainly in relation to phenolic compounds. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of low‐temperature storage on the content of folate, vitamin B6, ascorbic acid, chlorogenic acid, tyrosine, and phenylalanine in potatoes
Authors: Goyer Aymeric , Picard Maël , Hellmann Hanjo A , Mooney Sutton L
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Changes in the metabolite composition of potato tubers during low‐temperature storage can affect their nutritional value, susceptibility to bruising, and processing qualities. Here, we measured changes in the amounts of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, and the blackspot pigment precursors chlorogenic acid and tyrosine, as well as phenylalanine, in five potato varieties stored at 7.8 °C for 8 months in 2015 and 2016.

RESULTS

Folate content increased in all varieties in both years during low‐temperature storage, with statistically significant changes occurring in six out of eight conditions. Increase rates ranged from 11% to 141%. Vitamin B6 content increased in all varieties during the storage period, but changes were statistically significant in only two out of eight conditions. Increase rates ranged from 5% to 24%. Ascorbic acid content decreased in all varieties in both years during the storage period. Decrease rates ranged from 16% to 78%, and were statistically significant in seven out of eight conditions. For chlorogenic acid, no consistent trend was observed. Changes varied between −14% and +14%, but none was statistically significant. Tyrosine content increased in all varieties in both years, except in Sage Russet in 2015. Increase rates ranged from 19% to 238% and were statistically significant in three out of seven conditions. Changes in phenylalanine content were very similar to those observed for tyrosine, with increases up to 272% in Teton Russet.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that storage at low temperature substantially affects tuber nutritional quality and biochemical bruising potential. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Highly sensitive and selective method for the rapid determination and preconcentration of haloperidol by using a magnetite‐molecularly imprinted polymer
Authors: İlktaç Raif , Gumus Zinar Pinar , Aksuner Nur , Coskunol Hakan
Published: April 2019

A sensitive and selective method based on the determination of haloperidol with the usage of magnetite‐molecularly imprinted polymer and high‐resolution liquid chromatography has been developed. This novel method is rapid as the detection procedure for haloperidol can be completed within a total time of 1 h. The same imprinted polymer can be used for the determination of haloperidol at least 20 times. The proposed method has been succesfully applied to synthetic urine and serum samples and the recoveries of the spiked samples were in the range of 94.7–100.7%. The limit of detection and limit of quantification of the method were 2.25 and 7.50 μg/L, respectively. Linearity of the calibration graph was observed within the range of 10–250 μg/L. By combining the high capacity, high selectivity, and reusability of the magnetic adsorbent with the dynamic calibration range, high sensitivity and high resolution of liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, the proposed method is an ideal method for the determination and preconcentration of trace levels of haloperidol. A magnetite‐molecularly imprinted polymer has been used for the first time as a selective adsorbent for the determination of haloperidol.
Vegetation establishment in coastal salt‐affected wasteland using drip‐irrigation with saline water
Authors: Li Xiaobin
Published: April 2019

Saline water has been successfully used for irrigation in arid, semiarid, and coastal regions, and drip‐irrigation is widely regarded as the most promising system to deliver such water, particularly for reclaiming saline soils, because drip‐irrigation saves water and leaches salts efficiently. As coastal regions continue to be urbanized rapidly, vegetation establishment in coastal salt‐affected wastelands becomes increasingly urgent, but information on plants suitable for the purpose is scanty. The effects of drip‐irrigation with saline water (EC 0.8–7.8 dS/m) on the leaching of salts and on the performance of 15 plants suitable for landscaping were evaluated. The field experiment comprises trees, herbs, and shrubs, and irrigation was scheduled on the basis of soil matric potential threshold set at −5 kPa in 2013, −10 kPa in 2014, −15 kPa in 2015, and −20 kPa in 2016. As a result of irrigation controlled thus, soil that was severely saline initially became mildly saline or even nonsaline in its profile up to a depth of 1 m irrespective of the salinity of irrigation water. However, the survival rates of plants differed with the salinity and SMP threshold: Survival was more than 80% in four herb species and three tree species when irrigated with saline water at 7.8 dS/m for 4 years but decreased, especially in shrubs, as the SMP threshold was lowered. The thresholds of ECiw (electrical conductivity of irrigation water) and SMP were set based on the response of plants to salinity, and some plants are recommended for the ecological environment establishment. A combination of controlled irrigation with saline water and the right mix of plant species are helpful in reclamation of saline coastal areas.
Drivers of temperate woodland condition through time in an agricultural landscape
Authors: Sato Chloe F. , Florance Daniel , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: April 2019

Conversion of natural woodlands to grazing pastures is a major driver of biodiversity loss. In response to this threat, regenerative management approaches have been proposed to balance agriculture with biodiversity conservation. Yet rigorous experiments investigating the effectiveness of such approaches are rare. We used time‐series data from a broad‐scale experiment in south‐eastern Australian woodlands to explore the effects of agricultural practices and environmental factors on regeneration, bare ground, and native and exotic cover and richness. Our study included historical fertilization, three past grazing regimes (continuous, short‐conversion rotational, and long‐conversion rotational), two present‐day grazing measures (grazing duration and stocking rate), and three environmental covariates (natural soil fertility, native woody cover, and rainfall). We found that fertilizer application was associated with altered trajectories of native overstorey cover, native plant richness, exotic cover, and bare ground. Changes in woodland condition also were associated with a combination of present‐day grazing and environmental drivers. Natural regeneration, native plant richness, and native herb cover were negatively associated with increased grazing intensity. Conversely, increased landscape‐scale native woody cover and local‐scale natural soil fertility were associated with increases in native overstorey cover and native plant richness and decreases in exotic cover and bare ground.

Our results indicate that land‐use history, present grazing intensity, and landscape context alter woodland ecosystem responses to intervention. This may explain why some conservation actions fail to meet objectives. Our results indicate that the effectiveness of conservation actions can be improved by considering the combined influence of past and present agricultural management and landscape context on woodland condition.
Predictive Value of Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient for Graft Hemodynamics in Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Matsushima Hajime , Fujiki Masato , Sasaki Kazunari , Rotroff Daniel M. , Sands Mark , Bayona Molano Maria Del Pilar , Aucejo Federico , Diago Uso Teresa , Eghtesad Bijan , Miller Charles , Quintini Cristiano , Hashimoto Koji
Published: April 2019

The hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement is known to correlate with the severity of portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis. This retrospective study investigated the clinical value of preoperative measurement of HVPG in patients who underwent adult‐to‐adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and its predictive value for hepatic hemodynamics after graft reperfusion. For this study, 75 patients who underwent adult‐to‐adult LDLT were divided into 2 groups (HVPG <16 mm Hg or HVPG ≥16 mm Hg) to investigate the correlation between preoperative HVPG and characteristics and surgical outcomes of the patients, including portal vein flow (PVF) and hepatic artery flow (HAF) after graft reperfusion. In total, 35 (46.7%) patients had an HVPG ≥16 mm Hg. These patients had significantly higher international normalized ratio values, serum creatinine levels, and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease scores compared with the 40 patients with HVPG <16 mm Hg. They also had higher rates of variceal bleeding, encephalopathy, and intractable ascites as well as lower serum albumin levels and platelet counts compared with those patients with HVPG <16 mm Hg. Portal inflow modulation (PIM) was frequently performed in the patients with HVPG ≥16 mm Hg compared with those with HVPG <16 mm Hg. No significant differences in surgical outcomes after LDLT were found between these 2 groups except for postoperative ascites. Preoperative HVPG showed a positive correlation with PVF and a negative correlation with HAF after graft reperfusion (false discovery rate [FDR] P = 0.08 and FDR P = 0.08, respectively). In linear regression analyses, preoperative HVPG was independently associated with PVF after graft reperfusion. In conclusion, our findings indicate that preoperative HVPG is associated with hepatic hemodynamics after graft implantation in LDLT. HVPG as a routine preoperative evaluation may be helpful for surgical planning of PIM.
Application of a Bayesian inflation approach to EnSRF radar data assimilation to improve the analysis and forecasting of an MCS
Authors: Gao Shibo , Min Jinzhong , Liu Limin , Ren Chuanyou
Published: April 2019

A spatially and temporally varying Bayesian inflation algorithm was applied to the assimilation of the real radar data of a mesoscale convective system (MCS), which occurred on May 8–9, 2007 in Oklahoma and Texas (USA), using the ensemble square root filter (EnSRF) within the advanced regional prediction system (ARPS). For comparison purposes, two radar data assimilation and forecast experiments using Bayesian inflation and regular multiplicative inflation algorithms were performed. Results indicated that the analysis reflectivity structure of the MCS using the Bayesian inflation method appeared better than when using the multiplicative inflation method. The Bayesian inflation method also reduced the root mean square innovations (RMSIs) and increased the ensemble spreads for reflectivity and radial velocity. Furthermore, the reduction of RMSIs was related to the higher Bayesian inflation parameter assigned to the background. The flow‐dependent characteristic of the Bayesian inflation parameter means it varies with space and model state variables. This successful analysis helped improve subsequent forecast reflectivity and precipitation, especially for stratiform precipitation. It also promoted the development of the MCS with a strong surface cold pool and outflow in the convective regions. Quantitative reflectivity and precipitation forecast skills were also improved in the Bayesian inflation experiment. These encouraging results demonstrated the greater potential of using the Bayesian inflation algorithm for EnSRF radar data assimilation compared with multiplicative inflation.