bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting degrees of recrystallization of carbonaceous material in the Nelson aureole, British Columbia and Ballachulish aureole, Scotland, with implications for thermometry based on Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material
Authors: Beyssac Oliver , Pattison David R. M. , Bourdelle Franck
Published: September 2018

The degree of recrystallization of carbonaceous material (CM), as monitored by Raman microspectroscopy, was examined as a function of metamorphic grade in two well‐studied contact aureoles containing carbonaceous pelites: the Nelson aureole, British Columbia and the Ballachulish aureole, Scotland. Here, we use (a) the R2 ratio extracted from the Raman spectrum of CM as a proxy for the degree of graphitization (0.0 in perfect graphite then increasing with structural defects) and (b) the second‐order S1 band (~2,700 cm−1) as a marker for the tridimensional ordering of CM. The Nelson aureole (garnet–staurolite–andalusite–sillimanite–K‐feldspar sequence, ~550–650°C, 3.5–4.0 kbar) was developed in rocks that were unmetamorphosed prior to contact metamorphism, whereas the Ballachulish aureole (cordierite–andalusite–K‐feldspar–sillimanite sequence, ~550–700°C, ~3.0 kbar) was developed in rocks that had been metamorphosed to garnet grade conditions (~7 kbar, ~500°C) c. 45 Ma before contact metamorphism. Thirty‐one samples were examined from Nelson and 29 samples from Ballachulish. At Nelson, the R2 ratio steadily decreases from ~0.25 to 0.0 as the igneous contact is approached, whereas at Ballachulish, the R2 ratio remains largely unchanged from regional values (~0.20–0.25) until less than 100 m from the igneous contact. The second‐order S1 band reveals that carbonaceous material (CM) was transformed to highly “ordered” locally tridimensional graphitic carbon at Ballachulish by regional metamorphism prior to contact metamorphism, whereas CM was still a disordered turbostratic (bidimensional) material before contact metamorphism in the case of Nelson. Pretexturation of CM likely induced sluggish recrystallization of CM and delayed graphitization in the Ballachulish aureole. Temperatures of recrystallization of the CM in the two aureoles were estimated using different published calibrations of the thermometry based on Raman Spectroscopy of Carbonaceous Material (RSCM), with differences among the calibrations being minor. In the Nelson aureole, temperatures are in reasonable agreement with those indicated by the metapelitic phase equilibria (all within 50°C, most within 25°C). In the Ballachulish aureole, the retarded crystallization noted above results in increasing underestimates of temperatures compared to the metapelitic phase equilibria (up to ~75°C too low within 200 m of the igneous contact). Our study calls for careful attention when using RSCM thermometry in complexly polymetamorphosed rocks to assess properly the meaning of the calculated temperature.
Sex‐dependent changes in neuroactive steroid concentrations in the rat brain following acute swim stress
Authors: Sze Ying , Gill Andrew C. , Brunton Paula J.
Published: September 2018

Sex differences in hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis activity are well established in rodents. In addition to glucocorticoids, stress also stimulates the secretion of progesterone and deoxycorticosterone (DOC) from the adrenal gland. Neuroactive steroid metabolites of these precursors can modulate HPA axis function; however, it is not known whether levels of these steroids differ between male and females following stress. In the present study, we aimed to establish whether neuroactive steroid concentrations in the brain display sex‐ and/or region‐specific differences under basal conditions and following exposure to acute stress. Brains were collected from male and female rats killed under nonstress conditions or following exposure to forced swimming. Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry was used to quantify eight steroids: corticosterone, DOC, dihydrodeoxycorticosterone (DHDOC), pregnenolone, progesterone, dihydroprogesterone (DHP), allopregnanolone and testosterone in plasma, and in five brain regions (frontal cortex, hypothalamus, hippocampus, amygdala and brainstem). Corticosterone, DOC and progesterone concentrations were significantly greater in the plasma and brain of both sexes following stress; however, the responses in plasma were greater in females compared to males. This sex difference was also observed in the majority of brain regions for DOC and progesterone but not for corticosterone. Despite observing no stress‐induced changes in circulating concentrations of pregnenolone, DHDOC or DHP, concentrations were significantly greater in the brain and this effect was more pronounced in females than males. Basal plasma and brain concentrations of allopregnanolone were significantly higher in females; moreover, stress had a greater impact on central allopregnanolone concentrations in females. Stress had no effect on circulating or brain concentrations of testosterone in males. These data indicate the existence of sex and regional differences in the generation of neuroactive steroids in the brain following acute stress, especially for the 5α‐reduced steroids, and further suggest a sex‐specific expression of steroidogenic enzymes in the brain. Thus, differential neurosteroidogenesis may contribute to sex differences in HPA axis responses to stress.
Tolerability and efficacy of a medical device repairing emollient cream in adults with chronic hand dermatitis
Authors: Thouvenin Marie‐Dominique , Bacquey Adeline , Nocera Thérèse , Rossi Ana Beatris
Published: September 2018

Background

Emollients are recommended for managing chronic hand dermatitis (CHD). Medical device repairing emollient creams (MDRECs) are suitable for treating CHD‐associated skin lesions, unlike most cosmetic emollient products that can only be used on healthy skin.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the tolerability and benefit of a MDREC, Dexyane MeD®, in adults with CHD.

Methods

In an open‐label study, adults aged 18‐65 years with mild‐to‐moderate CHD were instructed to apply the MDREC on both hands twice daily for 3 weeks. Investigators assessed tolerability and CHD severity on days 1, 8, and 22. Subjects assessed CHD severity weekly and completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index on days 1, 8, and 22. Differences from baseline were compared by Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed‐rank test or paired t test. Satisfaction with the MDREC was assessed by subjects.

Results

Forty subjects were included and completed the study. Tolerability was good to excellent for all subjects. Subjects and investigators reported decreased severity of CHD at days 8 and 22 compared with Day 1 (P < 0.001), and subjects reported decreased pain and pruritus (P < 0.001). Quality of life improved, and most subjects were satisfied with the MDREC's characteristics and application.

Conclusions

The MDREC was well tolerated and may help manage mild‐to‐moderate CHD.
An autologous protein gel for soft tissue augmentation: in vitro characterization and clinical evaluation
Authors: Fedyakova Elena , Pino Ander , Kogan Lidiya , Eganova Charusa , Troya María , Anitua Eduardo
Published: September 2018

Background

The aging process affects all organs of the body, but the skin is the most visible indicator with a great psychosocial impact. As a consequence, many skin anti‐aging strategies have been developed to minimize, postpone, and even reverse the aging process. Growth factors have been widely studied in skin wound healing as these polypeptides play an essential role in the complex process of tissue regeneration. Recently, a novel 3D injectable gel based on the autologous technology platelet rich in growth factor has been described.

Objectives

In this study, a comparison between hyaluronic acid (HA, the gold standard for skin rejuvenation), and this novel autologous formulation has been conducted.

Methods

Rheological and mechanical properties were determined. The in vitro biological capacity of both treatments on human dermal fibroblasts proliferation, migration, chemotaxis, and extracellular matrix synthesis was also assessed. Additionally, a clinical evaluation of the autologous platelet gel treatment was performed by macrophotographs, ultrasound analyses, and clinical and patient surveys.

Results

The autologous gel outperformed the general biomechanical properties of HA and kept an optimal viscoelastic gel‐like behavior for soft tissue augmentation. Both formulations stimulated cell chemotaxis, migration, and type I collagen synthesis. The autologous gel induced a statistically higher cell proliferation. After the autologous formulation treatment, a soft tissue augmentation effect was also noticed along with an overall skin quality improvement in terms of hydration, elasticity, wrinkle reduction, and general satisfaction scores.

Conclusions

This novel injectable formulation has desirable mechanical and bioactive properties for 3D tissue regeneration and might offer a safe and effective treatment for depressed areas of the skin.
An Individual‐Differences Framework for Comparing Nonnative With Native Speakers: Perspectives From BLC Theory
Authors: Hulstijn Jan H.
Published: September 2018

This article proposes basic (shared) and extended (nonshared) language cognition in native speakers as a function of two types of extralinguistic attributes: (a) degree of being multilingual and (b) variables related to amount and type of literacy experiences (e.g., level of education). This approach may throw new light on the question of whether bilinguals can attain complete or native proficiency in two (or more) languages and the question of whether both early and late second language (L2) learners can attain native levels of L2 proficiency. An adequate language acquisition theory should explain why some structures are and some other structures are not comprehended and produced by all native speakers and also describe the acquisition over time (development) of lexical‐grammatical structures comprehended or produced by all native speakers or only by some. It is argued that usage‐based linguistics stands a better chance of accomplishing this task than generative linguistics.
Sharia Courts and Muslim Personal Law in India: Intersecting Legal Regimes
Authors: Lemons Katherine
Published: September 2018

In July 2005, a Delhi lawyer filed suit with the Supreme Court of India seeking to ban “sharia courts” (dar ul qazas) and Islamic legal opinions, arguing that they constitute a “parallel judicial system” that undermines the state's legal institutions. The Supreme Court decided in 2014 that dar ul qazas are not parallel but appropriate alternative forums. In this article, I analyze several divorce cases in Delhi and Patna dar ul qazas to show that, rather than being alternative or parallel, dar ul qazas intersect with state courts. Attending to this intersection, I argue, has implications for how we understand legal pluralism, secularism, and the relation between them. Specifically, I argue that because of how cases travel between dar ul qazas and state courts, dar ul qazas help to consolidate the oppositions between religious and secular law, kin relations, and rights upon which secularism relies.
The influence of drug properties and host factors on delayed onset of symptoms in drug‐induced liver injury
Authors: Gonzalez‐Jimenez Andres , McEuen Kristin , Chen Minjun , Suzuki Ayako , Robles‐Diaz Mercedes , Medina‐Caliz Inmaculada , Bessone Fernando , Hernandez Nelia , Arrese Marco , Parana Raymundo , Lucena M. Isabel , Stephens Camilla , Andrade Raúl J.
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims

Most patients with drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) manifest clinical symptoms while on therapy, while some patients manifest days or weeks after drug cessation (delayed onset). This challenges DILI causality assessment and diagnosis. Factors contributing to the delayed onset phenotype are currently unknown. We explored factors contributing to delayed onset of DILI by analysing culprit drug properties, host factors and their interactions in a large patient population from the Spanish DILI Registry.

Methods

Clinical information from 388 patients (69 presented delayed onset) and drug properties of 43 causative drugs (45 active ingredients) were analysed. A two‐tier regression‐based model was used to assess host/drug interactions affecting the probability of delayed onset.

Results

Antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory drugs accounted for the delayed onset cases. Drug property of <50% hepatic metabolism (odds ratio [OR] 11.06, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 4.4‐32.2, P = 0.0003), daily dose ≥1000 mg (OR: 2.77, 95% CI: 1.3‐6.1, P = 0.0063) and the absence of pre‐existing conditions in a patient (OR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.3‐4.9, P = 0.0043) were independently associated with delayed onset. The findings were consistent when externally validated using Latin American DILI Network cases (N = 131). Likewise, drug properties of mitochondrial liability and Pauling electronegativity were associated with delayed onset, but dependent on specific host factors such as age, sex and pre‐existing cardiac diseases.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that delayed onset, a specific DILI phenotype, is explained by complex interactions among drug properties and host factors and provided mechanistic hypotheses for future studies. These findings can help improve the diagnostic capability and causality assessment.
The World Health Organization Code and exclusive breastfeeding in China, India, and Vietnam
Authors: Robinson Holly , Buccini Gabriela , Curry Leslie , Perez‐Escamilla Rafael
Published: September 2018

Promoting exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a highly feasible and cost‐effective means of improving child health. Regulating the marketing of breastmilk substitutes is critical to protecting EBF. In 1981, the World Health Assembly adopted the World Health Organization International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the Code), prohibiting the unethical advertising and promotion of breastmilk substitutes. This comparative study aimed to (a) explore the relationships among Code enforcement and legislation, infant formula sales, and EBF in India, Vietnam, and China; (b) identify best practices for Code operationalization; and (c) identify pathways by which Code implementation may influence EBF. We conducted secondary descriptive analysis of available national‐level data and seven high level key informant interviews. Findings indicate that the implementation of the Code is a necessary but insufficient step alone to improve breastfeeding outcomes. Other enabling factors, such as adequate maternity leave, training on breastfeeding for health professionals, health systems strengthening through the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, and breastfeeding counselling for mothers, are needed. Several infant formula industry strategies with strong conflict of interest were identified as harmful to EBF. Transitioning breastfeeding programmes from donor‐led to government‐owned is essential for long‐term sustainability of Code implementation and enforcement. We conclude that the relationships among the Code, infant formula sales, and EBF in India, Vietnam, and China are dependent on countries' engagement with implementation strategies and the presence of other enabling factors.
Prevalence and predictors of exclusive breastfeeding among immigrant and Canadian‐born Chinese women
Authors: Dennis Cindy‐Lee , Brown Hilary K. , Chung‐Lee Leinic , Abbass‐Dick Jennifer , Shorey Shefaly , Marini Flavia , Brennenstuhl Sarah
Published: September 2018

Breastfeeding is the optimal method for infant feeding, yet migrant women may be at risk for suboptimal exclusivity rates. In a cohort of immigrant and Canadian‐born Chinese women, our objectives were to (a) describe patterns and prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum; (b) identify risk and protective factors associated with exclusivity; and (c) examine potentially differential importance of these factors across this 6‐month period. This was a prospective study of 565 immigrants and Canadian‐born Chinese women (Toronto, Canada). Exclusive breastfeeding was measured at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum. Predictors comprised fixed (demographics, history of depression, immigrant status, prenatal breastfeeding classes, in‐hospital formula supplementation, baseline social support, and baseline acculturative stress) and time‐dependent (depression, anxiety, fatigue, and breastfeeding problems) variables. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and generalized linear mixed models, respectively, were undertaken to address the objectives. Patterns of breastfeeding practices included exclusive breastfeeding in all time points (26.8%) or none (32.9%) and moving from exclusive to nonexclusive (20.3%) or nonexclusive to exclusive breastfeeding (15.2%). Women less likely to breastfeed exclusively at 1, 3, or 6 months were those whose infants received in‐hospital formula supplementation. Exclusivity attrition was higher between 3 and 6 months than 1–3 months. Immigrant status and in‐hospital formula supplementation had a significant impact on exclusivity earlier in the postpartum period while breastfeeding problems were associated with decreased exclusivity across time. Proactive preventive efforts are need to maintain breastfeeding exclusivity especially between 3 and 6 months if women are to meet international breastfeeding recommendations.
A MADS‐box transcription factor regulates a central step in sporulation of the oomycete Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Leesutthiphonchai Wiphawee , Judelson Howard S.
Published: September 2018

MADS‐box transcription factors play significant roles in eukaryotes, but have not yet been characterized in oomycetes. Here, we describe a MADS‐box protein from Phytophthora infestans, which causes late blight of potato. P. infestans and most other oomycetes express a single MADS‐box gene. PiMADS is not transcribed during vegetative growth, but is induced early during asexual sporulation. Its mRNA levels oscillate in response to light, which suppresses sporulation. The protein was not detected in nonsporulating mycelia, but was found in sporulating mycelia and spores. Both mRNA and protein levels decline upon spore germination. A similar expression pattern as well as nuclear localization was observed when the protein was expressed with a fluorescent tag from the native promoter. Gene silencing triggered by a construct expressing 478 nt of MADS sequences indicated that PiMADS is required for sporulation but not hyphal growth or plant colonization. A comparison of wild type to a silenced strain by RNA‐seq indicated that PiMADS regulates about 3000 sporulation‐associated genes, and acts before other genes previously shown to regulate sporulation. Analysis of the silenced strain also indicated that the native gene was not transcribed while the transgene was still expressed, which contradicts current models for homology‐dependent silencing in oomycetes.
Has the red sheep tick, Haemaphysalis punctata, recently expanded its range in England?
Authors: Medlock J. M. , Hansford K. M. , Vaux A. G. C. , Cull B. , Pietzsch M. E. , Gillingham E. L. , Johnson N. , Phipps L. P.
Published: September 2018

The red sheep tick, Haemaphysalis punctata (Ixodida: Ixodidae), has been reported as present in the U.K. for more than a century; however, very little has been written about its distribution. In recent years, numbers of detections of this tick species reported to the Public Health England (PHE) Tick Surveillance Scheme have increased. This rise in the number of records may be attributable to increased tick surveillance activities or to the increased distribution of this species of tick in parts of England. This paper reviews published reports of H. punctata and all data held by the Biological Records Centre and PHE, and summarizes a number of field studies conducted by PHE and the Animal and Plant Health Agency over the past 8 years. It would appear from the evidence presented here that H. punctata may be expanding its range across the eastern part of the South Downs National Park, where there have also been reports of this tick species biting humans. It is possible that the movement of sheep between grassland sites is facilitating this spread. Further studies that better elucidate the ecology of this tick and its possible role as a vector of human and veterinary diseases are now warranted.
Low‐carbohydrate diets for overweight and obesity: a systematic review of the systematic reviews
Authors: Churuangsuk C. , Kherouf M. , Combet E. , Lean M.
Published: September 2018

Low‐carbohydrate diets are being widely recommended, but with apparently conflicting evidence. We have conducted a formal systematic review of the published systematic reviews of RCTs between low‐carbohydrate vs. control (low‐fat/energy‐restricted) diets in adults with overweight and obesity. In MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Knowledge and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, searched from inception to September 2017, we identified 12 systematic reviews, 10 with meta‐analyses. Differences in methods, study quality, weight change and citations of published systematic reviews were assessed by AMSTAR‐2. Review methods varied in definitions of low‐carbohydrate diet, databases searched and bias assessment. Overall review quality was high in two, moderate in three, critically low in seven. Among meta‐analyses, 4/5 with critically low quality showed low‐carbohydrate diet superiority for weight loss (0.7–4.0 kg), while high quality meta‐analyses reported little or no difference between diets. Greater numbers of participants correlated with smaller differences in weight loss (r = 0.73, p = 0.03). More citations correlated with lower review quality (rho = −0.9, p = 0.037), with larger differences in weight loss (rho = −0.9, p = 0.037), and with journal impact factor (rho = 1.0, p = 0.01). In conclusion, publication acceptance and citations appear to favour apparently larger effect sizes above methodological quality. Better quality reviews and RCTs are needed, before recommending low‐carbohydrate diets as preferred to other approaches for energy restriction.
IL4 gene VNTR polymorphism in chronic periodontitis in end‐stage renal disease patients
Authors: Ksiazek Katarzyna , Blaszczak Jerzy , Buraczynska Monika
Published: September 2018

Objective

Interleukin‐4 gene polymorphisms were found to be associated with periodontitis. The purpose of this case–control study was to evaluate association of IL4 VNTR polymorphism with periodontitis in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD).

Subjects and methods

We examined 180 ESRD patients with chronic periodontitis, 82 without CP and 180 healthy controls. Genomic DNA from all subjects was genotyped for the IL4 VNTR polymorphism by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Genotype distribution in all groups followed Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies were observed between groups. The patient group had higher frequency of P1 allele than controls, with odds ratio for P1 allele 1.6 (95% CI 1.1–2.3) and P1P1 genotype 2.73 (95% CI 1.06–7.5). There were no differences in polymorphism distribution between ESRD patients without CP and controls. Periodontal disease was more severe in older patients (≥50 years). Similarly, patients with T2DM had more severe manifestation of CP than patients without diabetes (p = 0.01 for plaque index, p = 0.004 for bleeding index and p = 0.03 for gingival index).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that VNTR polymorphism in IL4 gene might be a risk factor for chronic periodontitis in patients with ESRD.
Novel rare variations in IRF6 in subjects with non‐syndromic cleft lip and palate and dental agenesis
Authors: Neves Lucimara T. , Dionísio Thiago J. , Garbieri Thais F. , Parisi Viviane A. , Oliveira Fernanda V. , Oliveira Thais M. , Santos Carlos F.
Published: September 2018

Objective

Subjects with cleft lip and palate (CLP) present high prevalence of dental agenesis. Among candidate genes for these phenotypes is IRF6. However, genetic studies do not analyze dental agenesis as a phenotype associated with cleft. Therefore, we investigated the frequency of rare and novel variations in IRF6 in subjects with non‐syndromic unilateral cleft lip and palate (NSUCLP), with and without dental agenesis.

Subjects and Methods

Genomic DNA samples of 100 subjects with NSUCLP with and without dental agenesis and 50 controls were sequenced. IRF6 mutational screening was conducted by direct sequencing.

Results

Ten new and rare missense variations were identified, two in the group cleft with agenesis and eight in the group cleft without agenesis, and none were found in control group. In silico analysis revealed four variations as potentially deleterious, being two in the group with cleft and agenesis and two in the group with cleft without agenesis.

Conclusion

The study identified novel IFR6 variations in subjects with NSUCLP with or without associated dental agenesis. The hypothesis of a higher frequency of deleterious variations in the subjects with cleft associated with dental agenesis, when compared to the group of cleft without agenesis and control without cleft, was not supported.
Outcomes of 200 consecutive, fluoroless atrial fibrillation ablations using a new technique
Authors: Liu Xiaoke , Palmer James
Published: September 2018

Introduction

A technique was developed to eliminate radiation exposure for routine atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, to simplify the procedure and to achieve cost effectiveness. We here report the outcomes of this approach.

Methods

Two hundred consecutive AF ablations (55% paroxysmal) were performed by a single operator. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was achieved by antral ablation without left atrial anatomic mapping, guided by contact force sensing and intracardiac echocardiogram (ICE). All ablations were performed using three ipsilateral 8 French catheters (ICE, Lasso, and ablation). Eighty‐two percent of the patients underwent ablation of atrial flutter or non‐pulmonary vein triggers. All patients underwent provocative testing after PVI.

Results

No fluoroscopy was used for the entire study. Two ablations were performed without x‐ray available due to unexpected equipment failure. The mean procedure time was 90.3 ± 17.7 (minutes) in patients who only required PVI and 106.2 ± 23.2 (minutes) for the entire cohort, with a success rate of 76% (mean follow‐up of 11 months). In contrast, the procedure time and success rate were 127.9 ± 38.2 (minutes) (P < 0.01) and 74%, respectively, for the last 50 standard ablations guided by fluoroscopy (without contact force sensing). Complications included one case of partial right phrenic nerve palsy and one case of right femoral artery pesudoaneurysm. Compared to our previous ablation approaches, the new method resulted in catheter savings of $2,168–$4,568/case.

Conclusion

The new technique eliminated radiation exposure and shortened the procedure time without significant negative impact on safety or success rate. Substantial cost savings were also achieved by using a minimal number of mostly reprocessed catheters.
Characteristics of NSAID‐induced hypersensitivity reactions in childhood
Authors: Cavkaytar Ozlem , du Toit George , Caimmi Davide
Published: September 2018

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available as over‐the‐counter drugs, and they are commonly used in children for their antipyretic, analgesic, and anti‐inflammatory effects. NSAIDs are among the most frequently reported drugs associated with hypersensitivity reactions and even with anaphylaxis. A complete evaluation of the patients based on reported clinical manifestations, timing of the reaction, the presence of underlying disease, and reactions to other NSAIDs allows clinicians to stratify children with a history of reaction to NSAIDs. Although NSAID‐induced hypersensitivity reactions have mainly been investigated in adults, recent studies have aimed to explore their epidemiology in the pediatric population. This review will cover the current understanding of clinical manifestations, the risk factors, and the different phenotypes of NSAID‐induced hypersensitivity reactions with a comprehensive overview of the epidemiologic data from past to present and the practical approach to the management of NSAID hypersensitivity in children and adolescents.
Foliar water uptake: Processes, pathways, and integration into plant water budgets
Authors: Berry Z. Carter , Emery Nathan C. , Gotsch Sybil G. , Goldsmith Gregory R.
Published: September 2018

Nearly all plant families, represented across most major biomes, absorb water directly through their leaves. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as foliar water uptake. Recent studies have suggested that foliar water uptake provides a significant water subsidy that can influence both plant water and carbon balance across multiple spatial and temporal scales. Despite this, our mechanistic understanding of when, where, how, and to what end water is absorbed through leaf surfaces remains limited. We first review the evidence for the biophysical conditions necessary for foliar water uptake to occur, focusing on the plant and atmospheric water potentials necessary to create a gradient for water flow. We then consider the different pathways for uptake, as well as the potential fates of the water once inside the leaf. Given that one fate of water from foliar uptake is to increase leaf water potentials and contribute to the demands of transpiration, we also provide a quantitative synthesis of observed rates of change in leaf water potential and total fluxes of water into the leaf. Finally, we identify critical research themes that should be addressed to effectively incorporate foliar water uptake into traditional frameworks of plant water movement.
Effect of human breast milk on biological metabolism in infants
Authors: Shoji Hiromichi , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: September 2018

The metabolic changes that occur during the postnatal weaning period appear to be particularly important for future health, and human breast milk is considered to provide the optimal source of nutrition for infants. Our previous studies examined the effect of feeding type on antioxidative properties, glucose and insulin metabolism, the lipid profile, metabolomics, and prostaglandin (PG) metabolism in term and preterm infants. A urinary marker of oxidative DNA damage (8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine) was significantly lower in breast‐fed term and preterm infants than in formula‐fed infants. Markers of insulin sensitivity were significantly lower and atherosclerotic indices were significantly higher in breast‐fed preterm infants than in mixed‐fed infants at discharge. On urinary metabolomics analysis, choline, choline metabolites, and lactic acid were significantly lower in breast‐fed term infants than in formula‐fed infants. Urinary PGD2 metabolite level in breast‐fed term infants was also significantly lower than in formula‐fed term infants. This indicates that human breast milk affects biological metabolism in early infancy.
The role of hybridization and introgression in maintaining species integrity and cohesion in naturally isolated inselberg bromeliad populations
Authors: Mota M. R. , Pinheiro F. , Leal B. S. S. , Wendt T. , Palma‐Silva C.
Published: September 2018

Hybridization is a widespread phenomenon present in numerous lineages across the tree of life. Its evolutionary consequences range from effects on the origin and maintenance, to the loss of biodiversity.

We studied genetic diversity and intra‐ and interspecific gene flow between two sympatric populations of closely‐related species,Pitcairnia flammeaandP. corcovadensis(Bromeliaceae), which are adapted to naturally fragmented Neotropical inselbergs, based on nuclear and plastidialDNA.

Our main results indicate a strong reproductive isolation barrier, although low levels of interspecific gene flow were observed in both sympatric populations. The low rates of intraspecific gene flow observed for bothP. corcovadensisandP. flammeapopulations corroborate the increasing body of evidence that inselberg bromeliad species are maintained as discrete evolutionary units despite the presence of low genetic connectivity. Nuclear patterns of genetic diversity and gene flow revealed that hybridization and introgression might not cause species extinctionviagenetic assimilation of the rareP. corcovadensis.

In the face of reduced intraspecific gene exchange, hybridization and introgression may be important aspects of thePitcairniadiversification process, with a positive evolutionary impact at the bromeliad community level, and thus contribute to increasing and maintaining genetic diversity in local isolated inselberg populations.
Biological and molecular characterization of Potato yellow blotch virus, a new species of the genus Potyvirus
Authors: Nisbet C. , Monger W. A. , Ross S. , Holmes R. F. , Nova Y. , Thomson C. , Goodfellow H. A. , Lacomme C. , Jeffries C. J.
Published: September 2018

A new species of the genus Potyvirus infecting potatoes, with the proposed name Potato yellow blotch virus (PYBV), was discovered in a breeding line 99m‐022‐026 in Scotland. The infected plants show isolated yellow blotches on the leaves. The genome of PYBV contains a large open reading frame encoding a single polyprotein of 3054 amino acids. Sequence analysis shows that PYBV is closely related to Potato virus A (PVA), with an overall 72% identity at the nucleotide level for the whole genome. The least conserved P1 protease gene shares only 50% nucleotide identity with PVA. The host range of PYBV was comparable to PVA on solanaceaous and non‐solanaceous indicator plant species with the exception of Solanum demissum A and Y. Different symptoms were also observed for PYBV and PVA in Nicotiana benthamiana, Nicotiana hesperis and Nicotiana occidentalis P1. The susceptibility of potato (Solanum tuberosum) cultivars to PYBV and PVA was similar. In over 5 years of investigation, PYBV has not been found in commercial seed and ware potato crops in Scotland.
Computer Model Calibration with Large Non-Stationary Spatial Outputs: Application to the Calibration of a Climate Model
Authors: Chang Kai-Lan , Guillas Serge
Published: September 2018

Bayesian calibration of computer models tunes unknown input parameters by comparing outputs with observations. For model outputs that are distributed over space, this becomes computationally expensive because of the output size. To overcome this challenge, we employ a basis representation of the model outputs and observations: we match these decompositions to carry out the calibration efficiently. In the second step, we incorporate the non-stationary behaviour, in terms of spatial variations of both variance and correlations, in the calibration. We insert two integrated nested Laplace approximation–stochastic partial differential equation parameters into the calibration. A synthetic example and a climate model illustration highlight the benefits of our approach.
Radiographic bone loss and the risk of medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) in multiple myeloma patients—A retrospective case control study
Authors: Wazzan Taggreed , Kashtwari Deeba , Almaden Wejood F , Gong Yan , Chen Yiqing , Moreb Jan , Katz Joseph
Published: September 2018

Risk factors for medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) include type and duration of antiresorptive drugs, dental trauma, local anatomy, systemic underlying conditions and therapy, smoking, and the presence of periodontal disease. However, there is a lack of studies elucidating the role of periodontal disease as risk predictor. In the present study, the dental charts of 100 multiple myeloma (MM) patients and 16 MM patients who developed MRONJ were studied. Information about age, gender, smoking history, diabetes, steroid drug intake, type and duration of bisphosphonate (BP) treatments, MRONJ status, missing teeth, periapical lesions, widening of the periodontal ligament, and periodontal status was collected. The periodontal status was determined as a percentage of missing bone at the mesial and distal surfaces of each tooth. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors associated with MRONJ. In the selected model, using the COX analysis, categorical bone loss percentage is significantly associated with MRONJ (P = 0.009), with hazard ratio 0.042 (high vs low) and 95% CI 0.004 to 0.453. Gender, steroid, Aredia BP type, and periapical are also significant in selected model. In conclusion, advanced alveolar bone loss and missing teeth were strongly related to the occurrence of MRONJ in MM patients.
Sedimentary architecture of detached deep‐marine canyons: Examples from the East Coast Basin of New Zealand
Authors: McArthur Adam D. , McCaffrey William D.
Published: September 2018

Submarine canyons are conduits for the distribution of sediment across continental margins. Although many canyons connect directly with fluvial or marine littoral system feeders, canyons detached from direct hinterland supply are also recognized. The fill of detached canyons remains enigmatic, because their deep‐water setting restricts analysis of their evolution and stratigraphic architecture. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the sedimentary processes that infilled deep‐water canyons and the resulting architecture. Miocene outcrops of an exhumed deep‐water system from the East Coast Basin, New Zealand, are documented and compared with the morphology and seismic scale architecture of a modern detached canyon system on the same convergent margin. The outcropping system preserves the downstream margin of a sub‐basin deposited at palaeo‐water depths >700 m. A 6 km wide by 430 m deep incision is filled by heterogeneous siliciclastic sediments, 50% of which comprise graded thin‐beds with traction structures, interpreted to result from oscillatory flows. These are intercalated with concave‐up lenses, up to 15 m thick, of sigmoidally‐bedded, amalgamated sandstones, which preserve ripple casts on bed bases, interpreted as deposits at the head of a deep‐marine canyon. Palaeo‐flow was eastward, into the sub‐basin margin. On the adjacent margin of the sub‐basin down‐dip, stacked and amalgamated sandstones and conglomerates represent the fill of a submarine channel complex, at least 3 km wide. The channels are inferred to have been fed by the up‐dip canyon, which traversed the intervening structural high; similar relationships are seen in the bathymetry data. Seismic studies on this margin demonstrate that multiple phases of canyon cut and fill may occur, with downstream architectural evolution comparable to that seen at outcrop, demonstrating that detached canyons may act as sediment conduits. Breaching of developing sea‐floor structures by detached canyons can modify tortuous sediment pathways, supplying sediment to otherwise starved areas of the slope.
Making a difference. Constructing relations between organic and conventional agriculture in Finland in the emergence of organic agriculture
Authors: Lehtimäki Tomi
Published: September 2018

This article analyses debates on the difference between organic and conventional agriculture. Departing from earlier accounts on the subject, it is argued that rather than conceptualising the subject as a case of diminishing differences, research should also focus on examining the making of these differences. This latter approach is connected to the notion that organic agriculture, understood as an alternative to conventional forms of agriculture, needs to justify its position by showing how it is different from them. To examine this issue, the article analyses the case of the emergence of organic agriculture in Finland. By analysing guidebooks, committee reports, and research publications the article analyses the construction of differences between organic and conventional. The case study shows that the difference between organic and conventional agriculture has been at the core of the debate, necessitating advocates of organic agriculture to actively construct it in different ways. This boundary making has operated differently depending on the various registers according to which organic agriculture and food have been assessed.
Risk factors for mortality after respiratory syncytial virus lower respiratory tract infection in adults with hematologic malignancies
Authors: Vakil Erik , Sheshadri Ajay , Faiz Saadia A. , Shah Dimpy P. , Zhu Yayuan , Li Liang , Kmeid Joumana , Azzi Jacques , Balagani Amulya , Bashoura Lara , Ariza‐Heredia Ella , Chemaly Roy F.
Published: September 2018

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is associated with high mortality in patients with hematologic malignancies (HM). We sought to determine whether allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (allo‐HCT) recipients would be at higher risk for 60‐day mortality.

Methods

We examined a retrospective cohort of adults with HM with or without HCT treated for RSV LRTI (n = 154) at our institution from 1996‐2013. We defined possible RSV LRTI as RSV detected only in the upper respiratory tract with new radiologic infiltrates and proven RSV LRTI as RSV detected in BAL fluid with new radiologic infiltrates. Immunodeficiency Scoring Index (ISI) and Severe Immunodeficiency (SID) criteria were calculated for HCT recipients. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors associated with 60‐day all‐cause mortality.

Results

Mortality was high in HM patients (25%), but there was no difference between those without HCT, autologous or allo‐HCT recipients in logistic regression models. Separate multivariate models showed that at RSV diagnosis, neutropenia (OR 8.3, 95% CI 2.8‐24.2, P = 0.005) and lymphopenia (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.7‐8.2, P = 0.001) were associated with 60‐day mortality. Proven LRTI was associated with higher 60‐day mortality (neutropenia model: OR 4.7, 95%CI 1.7‐13.5; lymphopenia model: OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.2‐8.8), and higher ICU admission. In HCT recipients, high ISI and very severe immunodeficiency by SID criteria were associated with higher 60‐day all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

Mortality is similarly high among HM patients without HCT and HCT recipients. High‐grade immunodeficiency and detection of RSV from BAL fluid are associated with higher 60‐day mortality.
Collaborative Remembering in Conversational Narration
Authors: Norrick Neal R.
Published: September 2018

This chapter introduces an epistemic perspective on narration and illustrates, based on data from storytelling in free natural conversation, how collaborative remembering can instantiate distributed cognition: first, when tellers deploy expressions of forgetfulness or explicitly enlist the aid of other participants; second, during various forms of collaborative turn sequencing with rapid speaker shift and a high degree of overlap; third, when conversational participants cooperate to produce a mosaic‐like narrative consisting of their partially separate perspectives and contributions; and fourth, when they weave their voices into a single narrative thread in a Goffmanian team performance.
Isoflavonoid‐specific prenyltransferase gene family in soybean: GmPT01, a pterocarpan 2‐dimethylallyltransferase involved in glyceollin biosynthesis
Authors: Sukumaran Arjun , McDowell Tim , Chen Ling , Renaud Justin , Dhaubhadel Sangeeta
Published: September 2018

Phytoalexin glyceollins are soybean‐specific antimicrobial compounds that are derived from the isoflavonoid pathway. They are synthesized by soybean in response to extrinsic stress such as pathogen attack or injury, thereby conferring partial resistance if synthesized rapidly at the site of infection and at the required concentration. Soybean produces multiple forms of glyceollins that result from the differential prenylation reaction catalyzed by prenyltransferases (PTs) on either the C‐2 or C‐4 carbon of a pterocarpan glycinol. The soybean genome contains 77 PT‐encoding genes (GmPTs) where at least 11 are (iso)flavonoid‐specific. Transcript accumulation of five candidates GmPTs was increased in response to Phytophthora sojae infection, suggesting their role in phytoalexin synthesis. The induced GmPTs localize to plastids and display tissue‐specific expression. We have in this study identified two additional GmPTs: an isoflavone dimethylallyltransferase 3 (IDT3); and a glycinol 2‐dimethylallyl transferase GmPT01. GmPT01 prenylates (−)‐glycinol at the C‐2 position, localizes in the plastid, and exhibits root‐specific gene expression. Furthermore, its expression is induced rapidly in response to stress, and is associated with a quantitative trait loci linked with resistance to P. sojae. Based on these results, we conclude that GmPT01 are possibly one of the loci involved in conferring partial resistance against stem and root rot disease in soybean.
Transcriptomic and functional analysis of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) fruit phloem during early development
Authors: Sui Xiaolei , Nie Jing , Li Xin , Scanlon Michael J. , Zhang Cankui , Zheng Yi , Ma Si , Shan Nan , Fei Zhangjun , Turgeon Robert , Zhang Zhenxian
Published: September 2018

The phloem of the Cucurbitaceae has long been a subject of interest due to its complex nature and the economic importance of the family. As in a limited number of other families, cucurbit phloem is bicollateral, i.e. with sieve tubes on both sides of the xylem. To date little is known about the specialized functions of the internal phloem (IP) and external phloem (EP). Here, a combination of microscopy, fluorescent dye transport analysis, micro‐computed tomography, laser capture microdissection and RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐Seq) were used to study the functions of IP and EP in the vascular bundles (VBs) of cucumber fruit. There is one type of VB in the peduncle, but four in the fruit: peripheral (PeVB), main (MVB), carpel (CVB) and placental (PlVB). The VBs are bicollateral, except for the CVB and PlVB. Phloem mobile tracers and 14C applied to leaves are transported primarily in the EP, and to a lesser extent in the IP. RNA‐Seq data indicate preferential gene transcription in the IP related to differentiation/development, hormone transport, RNA or protein modification/processing/transport, and nitrogen compound metabolism and transport. The EP preferentially expresses genes for stimulus/stress, defense, ion transport and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. The MVB phloem is preferentially involved in photoassimilate transport, unloading and long‐distance signaling, while the PeVB plays a more substantial role in morphogenesis and/or development and defense response. CVB and PlVB transcripts are biased toward development of reproductive organs. These findings provide an integrated view of the differentiated structure and function of the vascular tissue in cucumber fruit.