bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explicit intervention for Spanish pragmatic development during short‐term study abroad: An examination of learner request production and cognition
Authors: Hernández Todd A. , Boero Paulo
Published: May 2018

The present study examined the impact of pedagogical intervention on students’ request performance during short‐term study abroad (SA). Prior to departure, students received explicit instruction about requests. During their time abroad, they were given tasks to strategically develop their pragmatic competence. Requests were assessed with a discourse completion task. Results indicated that over time the students improved their request performance, as rated by two native Spanish speakers. Examination of the students’ requests revealed that their use of strategies also improved. Retrospective verbal reports (RVRs) performed after the posttests indicated that during second language (L2) Spanish request production, the students attended to politeness, task outcome, and past experiences. In addition, the RVRs indicated that specific sociopragmatic factors and pragmalinguistic strategies targeted during the pragmatic intervention informed learners’ cognition during request planning and production. Findings suggest that when combined with pedagogical intervention, SA has the potential to facilitate students’ L2 pragmatic development.
Geographic variability in taxonomic composition, standing stock, and productivity of the mesozooplankton community around the Kuroshio Current in the East China Sea
Authors: Kobari Toru , Makihara Wataru , Kawafuchi Takahiro , Sato Kie , Kume Gen
Published: May 2018

Despite the low productivity that has been thought to characterize plankton communities in the western boundary current of the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, many migratory fishes risk encountering low food availability during crucial life history stages by reproducing and recruiting in the Kuroshio region (i.e., the Kuroshio Paradox). Here, we report on geographic variability in taxonomic composition, biomass, and productivity of the mesozooplankton community in the Kuroshio Current and neighboring waters in the East China Sea. Calanoid copepods were the most abundant mesozooplankton taxon throughout our sampling stations. Small copepods, which include nauplii and poecilostomatoids, and gelatinous metazoans were the next most abundant. Seasonal variability in mesozooplankton standing stock (i.e., abundance and biomass) and productivity (i.e., production rate and protein synthetase activity) exceeded spatial variability across the stations and regions. The mesozooplankton community was characterized by high biomass and production rates in the summer, as well as high abundance and protein synthetase activity in the fall. No significant differences were found for mesozooplankton standing stock and productivity in the Kuroshio Path relative to those on the continental shelf or on the outside of the Kuroshio Path. Our results indicate that the standing stock and productivity of the mesozooplankton community in the Kuroshio Path are equivalent to those on the continental shelf, and that these communities are supported by small copepods and gelatinous zooplankton. We suggest that the mesozooplankton standing stocks and productivity provide adequate food availability for migratory fishes in the Kuroshio and neighboring waters in the East China Sea.
Seasonal dependence and functional implications of macrophyte–phytoplankton allelopathic interactions
Authors: Santonja Mathieu , Le Rouzic Bertrand , Thiébaut Gabrielle
Published: May 2018

Invasive plant species such as Ludwigia hexapetala might have a competitive advantage if they produce allelopathically active compounds against primary producers. Both phytoplankton and plant community structure may be affected due to different, species‐specific sensitivity to allelochemicals. Moreover, such allelopathic interactions could vary over the year depending on (i) the plant's phenological stage and (ii) the abilities of the native macrophytes to suppress—or the non‐native macrophytes to stimulate—the non‐native macrophyte population. We tested the allelopathic effects of aqueous leaf extracts of L. hexapetala on the photosynthetic activity of three target phytoplankton strains (Scenedesmus communis, a toxic Microcystis aeruginosa strain and a non‐toxic Microcystis aeruginosa strain) over three seasons of development (spring, summer and autumn). We also tested seasonal allelopathic effects of aqueous leaf extracts of both L. hexapetala (i.e. the non‐native invasive species) and the native Mentha aquatica on L. hexapetala seed germination. Finally, we identified three main secondary compounds present in the aqueous leaf extracts of L. hexapetala and we tested each individual compound on the phytoplankton's photosynthetic activity and on L. hexapetala seed germination. We observed marked seasonal and species‐specific patterns of L. hexapetala allelopathy on phytoplankton. The photosynthetic activities of S. communis and the toxic M. aeruginosa strain were stimulated by L. hexapetala aqueous leaf extracts in autumn and spring, respectively, whereas the non‐toxic M. aeruginosa strain was strongly inhibited in these two seasons. In summer, photosynthesis of all phytoplankton strains was inhibited. The germination rate of L. hexapetala seeds was stimulated by both L. hexapetala and M. aquatica aqueous leaf extracts, especially in summer, concomitant with the strong negative effects observed on the three phytoplankton strains. Three flavonoid glycosides (myricitrin, prunin and quercitrin) were identified as the main secondary compounds present in the L. hexapetala aqueous leaf extracts. The photosynthetic activity of S. communis was slightly stimulated by the three compounds. The photosynthetic activity of the toxic M. aeruginosa strain was stimulated by myricitrin and quercitrin, whereas that of the non‐toxic M. aeruginosa strain was inhibited by prunin. Finally, the germination rate and the germination velocity of L. hexapetala seeds were stimulated by myricitrin and prunin. These findings suggest that L. hexapetala could favour the photosynthetic activity of toxic cyanobacteria in spring and reduce their photosynthetic activity in summer, potentially leading to drastic changes in the phytoplankton communities and therewith ecological functioning of invaded ponds. Moreover, the stimulation of its seed germination could give a strong competitive advantage to L. hexapetala, thus promoting its invasiveness.
Knowing cows: Transformative mobilizations of human and non‐human bodies in an emotionography of the slaughterhouse
Authors: McLoughlin Eimear
Published: May 2018

This ‘emotionography’ of the slaughterhouse elucidates how the identities of both human and non‐human individuals are constructed by line and lairage workers. Hegemonic masculine ideals that underpin slaughterhouse work mean that the emotions of workers as well as the emotional experience of cattle are either denied, diminished or repressed. Based on fieldwork in an Irish slaughterhouse, I articulate how the industrial slaughter of animals entangles human and non‐human life in metamorphic processes that seek to diminish the emotionality of individuals, maintaining the boundary between human/non‐human animals. These transformations simultaneously pacify the emotional toll of killing non‐human individuals and reinforce perceptions of cows as sellable, killable and edible in the commodification of bovine bodies. Amidst the relative absence of emotions in slaughterhouse ethnographies, this article reveals how emotions emerge, erupt and confound the act of slaughtering cattle for slaughterhouse workers unsettling categorizations of masculinity and ‘animals as food’.
Factors associated with advanced hepatic fibrosis in patients with various internal diseases: A multicenter community‐based survey
Authors: Kawaguchi Takumi , Inokuchi Tetsuaki , Honma Tomoki , Itano Satoshi , Kawasaki Eiji , Inada Chizuko , Aoki Toshichika , Tsumura Naohira , Araki Akiteru , Mukae Tokunori , Torimura Takuji
Published: May 2018

Background and Aims

Advanced hepatic fibrosis can occur in patients with various diseases, including diabetes mellitus and hypertension. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of advanced hepatic fibrosis in patients with various internal diseases.

Patients and Methods

We performed a community‐based survey in which 1012 patients were enrolled (mean age, 63.1 ± 10.8 years; female/male, 505/507). Hepatic fibrosis was evaluated by Fib‐4 index and patients were classified into high and low Fib‐4 groups. Independent factors for the high Fib‐4 group were analyzed using logistic regression and decision tree analysis.

Results

A high prevalence of high Fib‐4 index was observed in patients with cardiovascular diseases; 37.1% of patients with hypertension belonged to the high Fib‐4 group. Independent factors associated with the high Fib‐4 group were BMI (OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.918–0.989, P < 0.01), male sex (OR 1.35, 95%CI 1.03–1.78, P < 0.05), and hypertension (OR 1.41, 95%CI 1.03–1.92, P < 0.05). In patients with hypertension, a decision tree algorithm revealed three profiles for Fib‐4 index: 1) creatinine level < 0.76 mg/dL (high Fib‐4; 30.0%), 2) creatinine level ≥ 0.76 mg/dL without sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) treatment (high Fib‐4; 48.2%), and 3) creatinine level ≥ 0.76 mg/dL with SGLT2i treatment (high Fib‐4; 23.5%).

Conclusions

A high prevalence of advanced hepatic fibrosis was observed in patients with hypertension. Hypertension was an independent risk factor, and creatinine level and SGLT2i were divergence variables for advanced hepatic fibrosis. Thus, hypertension with chronic kidney injury may exacerbate hepatic fibrosis, while SGLT2i treatment may ameliorate hepatic fibrosis.
Microstructure and properties of high alumina castables containing calcium alumino‐titanate
Authors: Chen Jianwei , Zhao Huizhong , Zhang Han , Li Zhengkun , Zhang Jiaqin
Published: May 2018

Calcium alumino‐titanate (CAT)‐containing high alumina castables were prepared using bauxite, CAT, and α‐Al2O3 as starting materials, and subsequently heat treated at various temperatures ranging from 1400°C to 1600°C. The thermo‐mechanical properties of the specimens as a function of the temperature were characterized in terms of linear shrinkage, bulk density, apparent porosity, cold crushing strength (CCS), modulus of rupture (MOR), residual ratio of MOR, and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to determine the phase composition and microstructural evolution, respectively. Sintering at temperatures between 1450 and 1500°C promoted normal grain growth, with the formation of a granular surface contact, and abnormal grain growth occurred at higher temperatures (≥ 1550°C). The cold strength of the specimen initially increased and subsequently decreased with temperature, whereas the residual ratio of MOR initially decreased with increasing temperature to 1550°C, then increased above 1550°C. In addition, the CTE of the specimen was only minimally influenced by the firing temperature.
Nutraceuticals in gummy candies form prepared from lacto‐fermented lupine protein concentrates, as high‐quality protein source, incorporated with Citrus paradise L. essential oil and xylitol
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Sakiene Vytaute , Bartkevics Vadims , Wiacek Claudia , Rusko Janis , Lele Vita , Ruzauskas Modestas , Juodeikiene Grazina , Klupsaite Dovile , Bernatoniene Jurga , Jakstas Valdas , Braun Peggy G.
Published: May 2018

As an addition to a normal diet, the use of food enriched with functional compounds has become increasingly popular. Alternatively, functional ingredients can be incorporated into nutraceuticals in gummy candies (GC) form. This study aimed to adapt lacto‐fermented lupine protein concentrates, as high‐quality protein and genistein sources, with Citrus paradise essential oil (EO), an antimicrobial and bean taste masking agent, and xylitol, a low glycaemic index sweetener, for preparation of nutraceuticals in GC form. For GC preparation, submerged fermentation with Lactobacillus sakei lupine variety Vilniai protein concentrate was selected, which had the highest protein content (90.11%), protein digestibility (89.94%) and genistein content (30.93 μg g−1) and the lowest trypsin inhibitors activity (19.40%), among the concentrates assessed. GC formulated with xylitol, ascorbic acid, grapefruit EO (up to 0.2%) and lupine protein concentrate (up to 13.0%) allowed obtaining products that exhibited a good texture, high overall acceptability and contained desirable functional compounds.
Apoptotic vesicles: deathly players in cancer‐associated coagulation
Authors: Muhsin‐Sharafaldine Morad‐Remy , McLellan Alexander Donald
Published: May 2018

Although cancer is associated with coagulation disorders, it is still unclear how the combination of tumor cell and host factors enhance the hypercoagulable state of cancer patients. Emerging evidence points to a central role for tumor endosomal and plasma membrane‐derived vesicular components in the pathogenesis of cancer‐related thrombosis. In particular, tumor cell membranes and extracellular vesicles (EV) harbor lipids and proteinaceous coagulation factors able to initiate multiple points within the coagulation matrix. The impact of chemotherapy upon a host already burdened with a hypercoagulable state increases the risk of pathological coagulation. We argue that chemotherapy‐induced EV harbor the most active components for cancer related thrombosis and discuss how membrane components of the host and tumor act to initiate coagulation to enhance thrombotic risk in cancer patients.
LMP2 immunoproteasome promotes lymphocyte survival by degrading apoptotic BH3‐only proteins
Authors: Zanker Damien , Pang Kenneth , Oveissi Sara , Lu Chunni , Faou Pierre , Nowell Cameron , Mbogo George W , Carotta Sebastian , Quillici Cathy , Karupiah Guna , Hibbs Margaret L. , Nutt Stephen L , Neeson Paul , Puthalakath Hamsa , Chen Weisan
Published: May 2018

The role of the immunoproteasome is perceived as confined to adaptive immune responses given its ability to produce peptides ideal for MHC Class‐I binding. Here, we demonstrate that the immunoproteasome subunit, LMP2, has functions beyond its immunomodulatory role. Using LMP2‐deficient mice, we demonstrate that LMP2 is crucial for lymphocyte development and survival in the periphery. Moreover, LMP2‐deficient lymphocytes show impaired degradation of key BH3‐only proteins, resulting in elevated levels of pro‐apoptotic BIM and increased cell death. Interestingly, LMP2 is the sole immunoproteasome subunit required for BIM degradation. Together, our results suggest LMP2 has important housekeeping functions and represents a viable therapeutic target for cancer.
What Triggers the Intention to Use the European Citizens’ Initiative? The Role of Benefits, Values and Efficacy
Authors: Kandyla Anna , Gherghina Sergiu
Published: May 2018

The European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) is a European Union instrument that aspires to encourage citizens to participate in EU policy‐making. Although scholarly interest in the ECI is strong, only isolated studies have examined the factors that shape the intention to use it. This article fills a gap in the literature by examining how personal benefits from the EU, value‐based assessments of the EU, and political efficacy (internal and external) may trigger potential use of the ECI. It develops a model that is tested with recent Eurobarometer data. Results show that personal benefits from the EU are key determinants of the intention to use the ECI while considerations based on democratic values play a less important role. In addition, internal political efficacy emerges as a strong predictor of potential use. The results challenge the expectation that the ECI could broaden public engagement with EU affairs.
Sound‐induced monoaminergic turnover in the auditory forebrain depends on endocrine state in a seasonally‐breeding songbird
Authors: Rodríguez‐Saltos C. A. , Lyons S. M. , Sockman K. W. , Maney D. L.
Published: May 2018

Sensory responses to courtship signals can be altered by reproductive hormones. In seasonally‐breeding female songbirds, for example, sound‐induced immediate early gene expression in the auditory pathway is selective for male song over behaviourally irrelevant sounds only when plasma oestradiol reaches breeding‐like levels. This selectivity has been hypothesised to be mediated by the release of monoaminergic neuromodulators in the auditory pathway. We previously showed that in oestrogen‐primed female white‐throated sparrows, exposure to male song induced dopamine and serotonin release in auditory regions. To mediate hormone‐dependent selectivity, this release must be (i) selective for song and (ii) modulated by endocrine state. Therefore, in the present study, we addressed both questions by conducting playbacks of song or a control sound to females in a breeding‐like or a nonbreeding endocrine state. We then used high‐performance liquid chromatography to measure turnover of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin in the auditory midbrain and forebrain. We found that sound‐induced turnover of dopamine and serotonin depended on endocrine state; hearing sound increased turnover in the auditory forebrain only in the birds in a breeding‐like endocrine state. Contrary to our expectations, these increases occurred in response to either song or artificial tones; in other words, they were not selective for song. The selectivity of sound‐induced monoamine release was thus strikingly different from that of immediate early gene responses described in previous studies. We did, however, find that constitutive monoamine release was altered by endocrine state; irrespective of whether the birds heard sound or not, turnover of serotonin in the auditory forebrain was higher in a breeding‐like state than in a nonbreeding endocrine state. The results of the present study suggest that dopaminergic and serotonergic responses to song and other sounds, as well as serotonergic tone in auditory areas, could be seasonally modulated.
What Explains the Decline in First Marriage in the United States? Evidence from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, 1969 to 2013
Authors: Schneider Daniel , Harknett Kristen , Stimpson Matthew
Published: May 2018

Rates of entry into first marriage have declined sharply in the United States during the past half century, and there is evidence of broad gaps in marriage entry by race and education. Although a large literature explores the influences on marriage for single cohorts, there is little research that tests explanations for this decline across multiple cohorts. The authors use individual and contextual measures of employment and incarceration to predict transitions to first marriage in the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (1969–2013). They test two prominent theories of why marriage rates have declined: the decreased availability of “marriageable” men and the increased economic standing of women. They find that men's reduced economic prospects and increased risk of incarceration contributed to the decline in first marriage rates during the past 45 years in the United States, although these basic measures of economic and carceral conditions cannot explain the entire decline.
Prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mello Fernanda Weber , Miguel Andressa Fernanda Paza , Dutra Kamile Leonardi , Porporatti André Luís , Warnakulasuriya Saman , Guerra Eliete Neves Silva , Rivero Elena Riet Correa
Published: May 2018

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) are chronic conditions, which have a higher risk of transformation to oral squamous cell carcinoma. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to answer the question: “What is the prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders among adults?” Studies reporting the prevalence of these conditions (leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral submucous fibrosis [OSMF], and actinic cheilitis) were selected, only studies in which a clinical assessment and histopathological confirmation were performed were included. Of the 5513 studies, 22 met the inclusion criteria for qualitative and quantitative analyses. The risk of bias (RoB) of the selected studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. Seven studies were classified as high risk, 12 as moderate risk, and 3 as low RoB. The meta‐analysis showed that the prevalence of OPMD was 4.47% (95% CI = 2.43‐7.08). The most prevalent OPMDs were OSMF (4.96%; 95% CI = 2.28‐8.62) and leukoplakia (4.11%; 95% CI = 1.98‐6.97). OPMDs were identified more commonly in males (59.99%; 95% CI = 41.27‐77.30). Asian and South American/Caribbean populations had the highest prevalence rates of 10.54% (95% CI = 4.60‐18.55) and 3.93% (95% CI = 2.43‐5.77), respectively. The overall prevalence of OPMD worldwide was 4.47%, and males were more frequently affected by these disorders. The prevalence of OPMD differs between populations; therefore, further population‐based studies may contribute to the better understanding of these differences.
Keratin 4 regulates the development of human white sponge nevus
Authors: Zhang Jianming , Quan Jingjing , Ren Yongyuan , Chen Mengshan , Yang Jie , Zhang Xu
Published: May 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of keratin 4 (KRT4) gene in the development of human white sponge nevus (WSN).

Methods

Transgenic mice were created using the microinjection method with pcDNA3.1 vectors expressing KRT4 wild‐type (WT) gene and E520K mutation. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting were used to identify the genotype of transgenic founders and their filial generations. Expression of KRT4 in mouse oral mucosa was characterized by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the whole epithelium layer of transgenic mice was observed using transmission electron microscope (TEM).

Results

The positive rate of KRT4 transgenic mice in F1 generation was 45.5%. Expression level of KRT4 protein was significantly higher in 2‐month‐old transgenic mice than WT mice. Furthermore, all the epithelial lamina of 3‐month‐old transgenic mice showed reduced staining of KRT4. The surface and spinous layers were full of hyalocytes and bubble cells, which are similar to the clinical symptoms of WSN. For the ultrastructure, both tonofilaments and Odland bodies increased.

Conclusions

Our study indicated the mutated KRT4 gene may play important roles in the pathogenesis of WSN.
Exploration of gender differences in bottled mineral water consumption: A projective study of consumer's perception in Brazil
Authors: Pacheco Marcelo H. S. , Kuriya Shigeno P. , Capobiango Carla S. C. , Pimentel Tatiana Colombo , Cruz Adriano Gomes , Esmerino Erick A. , Freitas Mônica Q.
Published: May 2018

The bottled mineral water sector is strategic to countries like Brazil and understanding the factors that guides the purchase and consumption by men and women becomes vital to the product's commercial success. In this context, projective techniques are important tools to comprehend the consumers' perception and to the development of target strategies of marketing. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the gender differences about the bottled mineral water's perception through using Word Association (WA) alongside with the Partial Least Squares—Discriminant Analysis (PLS‐DA). The results demonstrated that from the 12 listed categories for the product, the most common were: “necessity,” “well‐being,” “quality,” and “appearance,” and it was possible to identify through PLS‐DA the main differences (p < .05) between genders. The bottled mineral water consumption by the female public is possibly directed to necessity and well‐being, despite practicality, while the male public made the purchase and consumption of the product associated to brand and informal places. Yet, it was realized that the product's presentation and quality parameter were highly impactful in the consumers' attitudes from both sexes. It is highlighted that the WA and PLS‐DA tools, used together in an innovative way, contribute to the deep acknowledgment about the bottled mineral water's consumption, and their application can be expanded and adopted routinely in marketing research and in the new marketing strategies.

Practical applications

This study brings relevant information about the factors which should be considered by consumers at the moment of purchase and consumption of bottled water, emphasizing the differences by gender, with the advantage of the results being obtained using simple sensory methodologies, as the Word association task which taken in account the consumers' perception and evaluated for multivariate approaches, as Partial Least Squares—Discrimination Analysis. These findings should be considered to bottled water industry to elaborate marketing messages to increase their sales in an effective way.
Public goods and public bads
Authors: Buchholz Wolfgang , Cornes Richard , Rübbelke Dirk
Published: May 2018

In many empirically relevant situations agents in different groups are affected by the provision of a public characteristic in divergent ways. Whereas for one group it represents a public good, it is a public bad for another group. Applying Cornes and Hartley's aggregative game approach, we analyze a general model in which such contentious public characteristics are present and are provided cooperatively. In particular, we establish neutrality results with respect to redistribution and growth of income, infer the effects of preference changes and coalition formation, and present a technology paradox. Finally, we compare the outcome of voluntary provision of the contentious public characteristic with the Pareto‐optimal solution, highlighting a potential conflict between equity and efficiency in this case.
Delayed asymptomatic progressive intraventricular pneumocephalus in a dog following craniotomy
Authors: Hicks J. , Stewart G. , Kent M. , Platt S.
Published: May 2018

Delayed pneumocephalus developed in a 9‐year‐old dog following transfrontal craniotomy and implantation of an experimental local chemotherapy into a partially resected oligodendroglioma, but the animal appeared to be asymptomatic. MRI evidence of increasing intracranial pressure, including progressive ventricular dilatation and compression of periventricular parenchyma, led to the recommendation for exploratory craniotomy. The barrier between the intracranial cavity and frontal sinus was enhanced, and pneumocephalus resolved on MRI at both 1 and 3 months following the repair.
The Extent and Correlates of Public Support for Deterrence Reforms and Hot Spots Policing
Authors: Metcalfe Christi , Pickett Justin T.
Published: May 2018

As one approach to prison downsizing and criminal justice reform, scholars recommend altering the nature of policing by reallocating resources toward policing and increasing sentinel patrols and hot spots interventions. Public attitudes toward these reforms are unknown. In the current police crisis, shifting policies in ways disfavored by the public can impact police-community relations, especially among those disproportionately affected. The current study uses survey data from a nationally representative sample of Americans to evaluate whether the public is receptive to the suggested reforms. Our results indicate that the majority of the general public believes policing is more cost-effective than incarceration and supports a focus on sentinel patrols and crime hot spots, although there is less support for hot spots policing among blacks, Hispanics, and lower income individuals. The hot spots policing strategy most preferred is situational prevention, and the least supported is aggressive order-maintenance policing.
Risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation with direct‐acting antivirals against hepatitis C virus: A cohort study from Egypt and meta‐analysis of published data
Authors: El Kassas Mohamed , Shimakawa Yusuke , Ali‐Eldin Zainab , Funk Anna‐Louise , Wifi Mohamed Naguib , Zaky Samy , El‐Raey Fathiya , Esmat Gamal , Fontanet Arnaud
Published: May 2018

Background & Aims

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients treated with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) became an issue. However, its frequency has been poorly estimated, because of the varying definitions used and evaluation of heterogeneous study populations, including those concurrently treated for HBV.

Methods

We prospectively followed HBV surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive Egyptians undergoing interferon‐free DAAs, to estimate the risk of HBV reactivation and HBV‐related hepatitis. We also conducted a meta‐analysis to estimate the reactivation risk using published data obtained from a systematic review of PubMed/Embase, in addition to our Egyptian data. We applied a standard definition of HBV reactivation proposed by the international liver associations (APASL and AASLD).

Results

Of 4471 CHC patients, 35 HBsAg‐positive patients started interferon‐free DAAs without HBV nucleos(t)ide analogues in our Egyptian cohort. Ten experienced HBV reactivation (28.6%), of whom 1 developed hepatitis (10.0%). Our systematic review identified 18 papers. The pooled reactivation risk in HBsAg‐positive patients was 18.2% (95% CI: 7.9%‐30.7%) without HBV therapy and 0.0% (95% CI: 0.0%‐0.0%) with HBV nucleos(t)ide analogue. The pooled risk of hepatitis in those with HBV reactivation was 12.6% (95% CI: 0.0%‐34.7%). The pooled reactivation risk in HBsAg‐negative, antibody to HBV core antigen‐positive (anti‐HBc‐positive) patients was negligible (0.1%, 95% CI: 0.0%‐0.3%), irrespective of the presence of antibody to HBsAg (anti‐HBs).

Conclusions

We confirmed high HBV reactivation risk in HBsAg‐positive patients undergoing DAAs, with only a minority developing clinically important hepatitis. The risk is negligible for HBsAg‐negative anti‐HBc‐positive patients.
Toxoplasma gondii TFP1 is an essential transporter family protein critical for microneme maturation and exocytosis
Authors: Hammoudi Pierre‐Mehdi , Maco Bohumil , Dogga Sunil Kumar , Frénal Karine , Soldati‐Favre Dominique
Published: May 2018

Invasion and egress are two key steps in the lytic cycle of Apicomplexa that are governed by the sequential discharge of proteins from two apical secretory organelles called micronemes and rhoptries. In Toxoplasma gondii, the biogenesis of these specialized organelles depends on the post Golgi trafficking machinery, forming an endosomal‐like compartment (ELC) resembling endomembrane systems found in eukaryotes. In this study, we have characterized four phylogenetically related Transporter Facilitator Proteins (TFPs) conserved among the apicomplexans. TFP1 localises to the micronemes and ELC, TFP2 and TFP3 to the rhoptries and TFP4 to the Golgi. TFP1 crucially contributes to parasite fitness and survival while the other members of this family are dispensable. Conditional depletion of TFP1 impairs microneme biogenesis and leads to a complete block in exocytosis, which hampers gliding motility, attachment, invasion and egress. Morphological investigations revealed that TFP1 participates in the condensation of the microneme content, suggesting the transport of a relevant molecule for maintaining the intraluminal microenvironment necessary for organelle maturation and exocytosis. In absence of TFP2, rhoptries adopt a considerable elongated shape, but the abundance, processing or secretion of the rhoptry content are not affected. These findings establish the relevance of TFPs in organelle maturation of T. gondii.
Early‐life dietary and epigenetic influences on childhood musculoskeletal health: Update on the UK component of the ALPHABET project
Authors: Curtis E. M. , Suderman M. , Phillips C. M. , Relton C. , Harvey N. C.
Published: May 2018

The ALPHABET project, funded through the European Research Area Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life Biomarkers call, aims to expand the knowledge base regarding interactions between diet, epigenetics and offspring health, characterising biomarkers that may inform future health strategies. This review focuses on the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)‐funded component in which the aim was to (1) generate and collate early‐life epigenetic data and (2) investigate early diet and epigenetic marks as predictors of later bone health. The project builds on a wealth of evidence implicating environmental factors, such as maternal diet and body composition, as influences on the long‐term health and development of the offspring, and that these relationships might be mediated at least in part through epigenetic signals. Experimental studies in animal models have demonstrated that manipulation of maternal diet during pregnancy leads to altered offspring epigenetic marking and phenotype. Human studies convincingly demonstrate associations between early environment and later health and disease for outcomes across musculoskeletal, respiratory, neurodevelopmental and cardiometabolic health. The priority now is to find ways in which such observations can be translated into improved lifelong health. A key approach is to identify early biomarkers of adverse health outcomes and then to test these, and subsequent interventions, in trials aimed at identifying strategies to optimise health throughout the life course. The ALPHABET project will inform this process for musculoskeletal outcomes, and the project as a whole should help elucidate not only novel mechanisms, but also potential strategies to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal, respiratory, neurodevelopmental and cardiometabolic disease in future generations.
Enhancing mineral bioavailability from cereals: Current strategies and future perspectives
Authors: Aslam M. F. , Ellis P. R. , Berry S. E. , Latunde‐Dada G. O. , Sharp P. A.
Published: May 2018

Inadequate intake of essential minerals such as iron and zinc is a public health concern in the UK, particularly for girls and young women. Approximately 30% and 50% of the zinc and iron, respectively, in the UK diet is provided by cereals. In wheat, most of the iron and zinc is contained within the aleurone cell layer; however, aleurone is removed during processing of wheat into white flour. While elemental iron powder is added back into white flour at the milling stage, there is no restoration of zinc. Elemental iron powder has very low bioavailability, and therefore, in our current Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council Diet and Health Research Industry Club‐funded project, we are investigating the potential use of aleurone as a bioavailable source of minerals that could be added to wheat‐based foods. This work has relevance for the food industry and may establish the use of aleurone as a functional food ingredient for fortification of a range of cereal‐based food products.
Determinants of regret in elderly dialysis patients
Authors: Tan Edlyn G F , Teo Irene , Finkelstein Eric A , Meng Chan C
Published: May 2018

Aims

In Singapore, most elderly end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients choose dialysis over palliative management. However, dialysis may not be the optimal treatment option given only moderate survival benefits and high costs and treatment burden compared to non‐dialysis management. Elderly patients may therefore come to regret this decision. This study investigated: (i) extent of patients’ decision regret after starting dialysis, and (ii) potentially modifiable predictors of regret: satisfaction with chronic kidney disease education, decisional conflict, and decision‐making involvement.

Methods

The present study was a cross‐sectional study of 103 dialysis patients above 70 years of age, surveyed at Singapore General Hospital's renal medicine clinics between March and June 2017. Participants reported their levels of decision regret on the Decision Regret Scale (DRS), retrospective decisional conflict on the Decisional Conflict Scale, information satisfaction, and decision‐making involvement.

Results

In total, 81% of participants reported no decision regret (DRS score < 50), 11% ambivalence (DRS = 50), and 8% regret (DRS >50). In individual DRS items, 19% felt dialysis had done them harm and 16% would not make the same decision again. In multivariable analyses, lower information satisfaction [b = −0.07 (95% CI: −0.13, −0.01)] and decisional conflict [b = 0.004 (95% CI: 0.002, 0.006)] were significantly associated with decision regret.

Conclusion

Although the majority of elderly dialysis patients were comfortable with their decision to start dialysis, a proportion was ambivalent or regretted this choice. Regret was more likely among those who experienced decisional conflict and/or expressed poorer information satisfaction. Healthcare professionals should recognize these risk factors and take steps to minimize chances of regret among this population subset.
Back to basics: what is the function of an Aux/IAA in auxin response?
Authors: Nemhauser Jennifer L.
Published: May 2018

This article is a Commentary on Tao & Estelle, 218: 1534–1542.
Two‐dimensional simulation of eccentric photorefraction images for ametropes: factors influencing the measurement
Authors: Wu Yifei , Thibos Larry N. , Candy T. Rowan
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Eccentric photorefraction and Purkinje image tracking are used to estimate refractive state and eye position simultaneously. Beyond vision screening, they provide insight into typical and atypical visual development. Systematic analysis of the effect of refractive error and spectacles on photorefraction data is needed to gauge the accuracy and precision of the technique.

Methods

Simulation of two‐dimensional, double‐pass eccentric photorefraction was performed (Zemax). The inward pass included appropriate light sources, lenses and a single surface pupil plane eye model to create an extended retinal image that served as the source for the outward pass. Refractive state, as computed from the luminance gradient in the image of the pupil captured by the model's camera, was evaluated for a range of refractive errors (−15D to +15D), pupil sizes (3 mm to 7 mm) and two sets of higher‐order monochromatic aberrations. Instrument calibration was simulated using −8D to +8D trial lenses at the spectacle plane for: (1) vertex distances from 3 mm to 23 mm, (2) uncorrected and corrected hyperopic refractive errors of +4D and +7D, and (3) uncorrected and corrected astigmatism of 4D at four different axes. Empirical calibration of a commercial photorefractor was also compared with a wavefront aberrometer for human eyes.

Results

The pupil luminance gradient varied linearly with refractive state for defocus less than approximately 4D (5 mm pupil). For larger errors, the gradient magnitude saturated and then reduced, leading to under‐estimation of refractive state. Additional inaccuracy (up to 1D for 8D of defocus) resulted from spectacle magnification in the pupil image, which would reduce precision in situations where vertex distance is variable. The empirical calibration revealed a constant offset between the two clinical instruments.

Conclusions

Computational modelling demonstrates the principles and limitations of photorefraction to help users avoid potential measurement errors. Factors that could cause clinically significant errors in photorefraction estimates include high refractive error, vertex distance and magnification effects of a spectacle lens, increased higher‐order monochromatic aberrations, and changes in primary spherical aberration with accommodation. The impact of these errors increases with increasing defocus.
Development of molecular markers linked to the Leptosphaeria maculans resistance gene Rlm6 and inheritance of SCAR and CAPS markers in Brassica napus × Brassica juncea interspecific hybrids
Authors: Rashid M. Harunur , Zou Zhongwei , Fernando W. G. Dilantha
Published: May 2018

Leptosphaeria maculans causes blackleg disease on Brassica napus, an economically important oilseed crop. Brassica juncea has high resistance to blackleg and is a source for the development of resistant B. napus varieties. To transfer the Rlm6 resistance gene from B. juncea into B. napus, an interspecific cross between B. napus “Topas DH16516” and B. juncea “Forge” was produced, followed by the development of F2 and F3 generations. Sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) and cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) markers linked to the L. maculans resistance gene Rlm6 were developed. Segregation of SCAR and CAPS markers linked to Rlm6 were confirmed by genotyping of F2 and F3 progeny. Segregation of CAPS markers and phenotypes for blackleg disease severity in F2 plants had a Mendelian ratio of 3:1 in resistant vs. susceptible plants, respectively, supporting the assumption that genetic control of resistance was by a single dominant gene. The molecular markers developed in this study, which show linkage with the L. maculans resistance gene Rlm6, would facilitate marker‐assisted backcross breeding in a variety development programme.
Oncogenic signaling in uveal melanoma
Authors: Park John J. , Diefenbach Russell J. , Joshua Anthony M. , Kefford Richard F. , Carlino Matteo S. , Rizos Helen
Published: May 2018

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary cancer of the eye, and despite rapidly emerging insights into the molecular profile of this disease, prognosis of patients with metastatic uveal melanoma remains poor with mortality rates unchanged in over 35 years. Early genetic events activate G protein‐coupled receptor signaling in nearly all uveal tumors via mutually exclusive mutations in the GNAQ, GNA11, CYSLTR2, or PLCB4 genes. A multitude of signaling cascades downstream of G protein activation, including protein kinase C and mitogen‐activated protein kinase activity, are actionable, and many ongoing clinical trials are targeting these pathways. Additional cytogenetic and genetic changes, however, including chromosome 3 monosomy, mutations in the BAP1 tumor suppressor gene, alterations in the splicing factors SRSF2/SF3B1, and mutations in the translation initiation factor EIF1AX, modulate signaling output in uveal tumors and modify the risk of metastases. Here, we review the complex interactions between genetic, molecular signaling, and prognostic profiles in uveal melanoma; the clinical implications of these interactions; and the latest potential targets for rational therapy.
Incremental dialysis for preserving residual kidney function—Does one size fit all when initiating dialysis?
Authors: Mathew Anna T. , Obi Yoshitsugu , Rhee Connie M. , Chou Jason A. , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar
Published: May 2018

While many patients have substantial residual kidney function (RKF) when initiating hemodialysis (HD), most patients with end stage renal disease in the United States are initiated on 3‐times per week conventional HD regimen, with little regard to RKF or patient preference. RKF is associated with many benefits including survival, volume control, solute clearance, and reduced inflammation. Several strategies have been recommended to preserve RKF after HD initiation, including an incremental approach to HD initiation. Incremental HD prescriptions are personalized to achieve adequate volume control and solute clearance with consideration to a patient's endogenous renal function. This allows the initial use of less frequent and/or shorter HD treatment sessions. Regular measurement of RKF is important because HD frequency needs to be increased as RKF inevitably declines. We narratively review the results of 12 observational cohort studies of twice‐weekly compared to thrice‐weekly HD. Incremental HD is associated with several benefits including preservation of RKF as well as extending the event‐free life of arteriovenous fistulas and grafts. Patient survival and quality of life, however, has been variably associated with incremental HD. Serious risks must also be considered, including increased hospitalization and mortality perhaps related to fluid and electrolyte shifts after a long interdialytic interval. On the basis of the above literature review, and our clinical experience, we suggest patient characteristics which may predict favorable outcomes with an incremental approach to HD. These include substantial RKF, adequate volume control, lack of significant anemia/electrolyte imbalance, satisfactory health‐related quality of life, low comorbid disease burden, and good nutritional status without evidence of hypercatabolism. Clinicians should engage patients in on‐going conversations to prepare for incremental HD initiation and to ensure a smooth transition to thrice‐weekly HD when needed.
Estimating high‐dimensional additive Cox model with time‐dependent covariate processes
Authors: Lv Shaogao , Jiang Jiakun , Zhou Fanyin , Huang Jian , Lin Huazhen
Published: May 2018

This paper is concerned with the estimation in the additive Cox model with time‐dependent covariates when the number of additive componentspis greater than the sample sizen. By combining spline representation and the group lasso penalty, a penalized partial likelihood approach to estimating the unknown component functions is proposed. Given the non‐iid nature of the log partial likelihood function and the nonparametric complexities of the component function estimation, it is challenging to analyze the theoretical properties of the proposed estimation. Through concentration inequities developed for martingale differences in the context of the additive Cox model, we establish nonasymptotic oracle inequalities for the group lasso in the additive Cox model withp=eo(n)under the compatibility and cone invertibility factors conditions on the Hessian matrix. An interesting and surprising aspect of our result is that the complexity of the component functions affects not only the approximation error but also the stochastic error. This is quite different from the additive mean models and suggests that the additive Cox model is more difficult to estimate than the additive mean models in high‐dimensional settings.
Differential expression networks and inheritance patterns of long non‐coding RNAs in castor bean seeds
Authors: Xu Wei , Yang Tianquan , Wang Bin , Han Bing , Zhou Huangkai , Wang Yue , Li De‐Zhu , Liu Aizhong
Published: May 2018

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve as versatile regulators of plant growth and development. The potential functions and inheritance patterns of lncRNAs, as well as the epigenetic regulation of lncRNA itself, remain largely uncharacterized in plant seeds, especially in the persistent endosperm of the dicotyledons. In this study, we investigated diverse RNA‐seq data and catalogued 5356 lncRNAs in castor bean seeds. A small fraction of lncRNAs were transcribed from the same direction as the promoters of protein‐coding genes (PCgenes) and exhibited strongly coordinated expression with the nearby PCgene. Co‐expression analysis with weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed these lncRNAs to be involved in differential transcription networks between the embryo and endosperm in the early developing seed. Genomic DNA methylation analyses revealed that the expression level of lncRNAs was tightly linked to DNA methylation and that endosperm hypomethylation could promote the expression of linked lncRNAs. Intriguingly, upon hybridization, most lncRNAs with divergent genome sequences between two parents could be reconciled and were expressed according to their parental genome contribution; however, some deviation in the expression of allelic lncRNAs was observed and found to be partially dependent on parental effects. In triploid endosperm, the expression of most lncRNAs was not dosage sensitive, as only 20 lncRNAs had balanced dosage. Our findings not only demonstrate that lncRNAs play potential roles in regulating the development of castor bean endosperm and embryo, but also provide novel insights into the parental effects, allelic expression and epigenetic regulation of lncRNAs in dicotyledonous seeds.