bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term risk of stroke and bleeding post–atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Joza Jacqueline , Samuel Michelle , Jackevicius Cynthia A. , Behlouli Hassan , Jia Jing , Koh Maria , Tsadok Meytal Avgil , Tang Anthony S.L. , Verma Atul , Pilote Louise , Essebag Vidal
Published: July 2018

Background

Catheter ablation (CA) is an established therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF). Studies regarding long‐term real‐world outcomes post‐CA have inconsistently accounted for oral anticoagulation (OAC).

Objectives

To describe patterns of OAC use post‐CA and to compare the OAC‐adjusted long‐term risk of stroke and major bleeding in AF patients with and without CA.

Methods

A population‐based cohort of AF patients was constructed in Quebec and Ontario, Canada (1999‐2014). Propensity score matching was performed to determine the incidence rates of stroke and major bleeding among those undergoing CA, adjusted for time‐dependent OAC use.

Results

From the entire cohort, 6391 patients were identified as having undergone CA as compared to 482 977 patients who did not. Of these, 1240 patients with government medical insurance undergoing CA were matched with 2427 patients without CA. Post‐CA, 78%, 65%, and 61% remained on an OAC at 1, 2, and 5 years, while 75%, 71%, and 68% of patients not undergoing CA were on OACs at 1, 2, and 5 years. At follow‐up, there was no statistically significant difference for stroke (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.88; 95% CI, 0.63 to 1.21) or major bleeding (adjusted HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.73 to 1.06).

Conclusion

No evidence was found that CA significantly decreases the risk of stroke or major bleeding when adjusting for OAC use over time. It may be prudent to continue anticoagulation post‐CA based on patient‐risk profile until randomized trials demonstrate both reduced stroke rates with CA, and improved safety (balancing stroke and bleeding risk) with OAC discontinuation post‐CA.
Knockdown of lncRNA AK139328 alleviates myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury in diabetic mice via modulating miR‐204‐3p and inhibiting autophagy
Authors: Yu Si‐yang , Dong Bo , Fang Zhen‐fei , Hu Xin‐qun , Tang Liang , Zhou Sheng‐hua
Published: July 2018

This study was aimed at investigating the effects of lncRNA AK139328 on myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) in diabetic mice. Ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) model was constructed in normal mice (NM) and diabetic mice (DM). Microarray analysis was utilized to identify lncRNA AK139328 overexpressed in DM after myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (MI/R). RT‐qPCR assay was utilized to investigate the expressions of lncRNA AK139328 and miR‐204‐3p in cardiomyocyte and tissues. Left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESD), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and fractioning shortening (FS) were obtained by transthoracic echocardiography. Haematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining and Masson staining were utilized to detect the damage of myocardial tissues degradation of myocardial fibres and integrity of myocardial collagen fibres. Evans Blue/TTC staining was used to determine the myocardial infarct size. TUNEL staining was utilized to investigate cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The targeted relationship between lncRNA AK139328 and miR‐204‐3p was confirmed by dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. MTT assay was used for analysis of cardiomyocyte proliferation. Western blot was utilized to investigate the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), Atg7, Atg5, LC3‐II/LC3‐I and p62 marking autophagy. Knockdown of lncRNA AK139328 relieved myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury in DM and inhibited cardiomyocyte autophagy as well as apoptosis of DM. LncRNA AK139328 modulated miR‐204‐3p directly. MiR‐204‐3p and knockdown of lncRNA AK139328 relieved hypoxia/reoxygenation injury via inhibiting cardiomyocyte autophagy. Silencing lncRNA AK139328 significantly increased miR‐204‐3p expression and inhibited cardiomyocyte autophagy, thereby attenuating MIRI in DM.
The Role of Iron Status in the Early Progression of Metronidazole Resistance in Trichomonas vaginalis Under Microaerophilic Conditions
Authors: Argáez‐Correa Wendy , Alvarez‐Sánchez María E. , Arana‐Argáez Victor E. , Ramírez‐Camacho Mario A. , Novelo‐Castilla Jazmín S. , Coral‐Martínez Tania I. , Torres‐Romero Julio C.
Published: July 2018

Trichomonas vaginalis is the etiological agent of human trichomoniasis. Metronidazole has high treatment success rate among trichomoniasis patients. However, metronidazole‐resistant T. vaginalis has been reported, contributing in an increasing number of refractory cases. The mechanism of metronidazole resistance in this parasite is still unclear. In the vaginal environment, where the microaerophilic conditions prevail but the iron concentration is constantly fluctuating, the metronidazole resistance profile of T. vaginalis could be altered. In this study, we developed metronidazole‐resistant strains of T. vaginalis and evaluate if iron availability is important to the action of the drug. The modulation of iron levels and iron chelation affected the actions of metronidazole both in susceptible and resistant strains. Interestingly, the early resistant strains exhibited minor iron content. The results of transcription analysis in the early resistant strains showed dysregulation in the expression of genes that codified proteins involved in iron transporter, iron–sulfur cluster assemblage, and oxidative stress response, which could not be observed in the late resistant and susceptible strains. Our results indicate that iron content plays an important role in the metronidazole action in T. vaginalis and likely to be related to iron–sulfur proteins involved in metronidazole activation and oxidative stress via Fenton reaction.
Photoreceptors and eyes of pikeperch Sander lucioperca, pike Esox lucius, perch Perca fluviatilis and roach Rutilus rutilus from a clear and a brown lake
Authors: Jokela‐Määttä Mirka , Viljanen Martta , Nevala Noora , Donner Kristian , Brönmark Christer
Published: July 2018

The photoreceptors and eyes of four fish species commonly cohabiting Fennoscandian lakes with different light transmission properties were compared: pikeperch Sander lucioperca, pike Esox lucius, perch Perca fluviatilis and roach Rutilus rutilus. Each species was represented by individuals from a clear (greenish) and a humic (dark brown) lake in southern Finland: Lake Vesijärvi (LV; peak transmission around 570 nm) and Lake Tuusulanjärvi (LT; peak transmission around 630 nm). In the autumn, all species had almost purely A2‐based visual pigments. Rod absorption spectra peaked at c.526 nm (S. lucioperca), c. 533 nm (E. lucius) and c. 540 nm (P. fluviatilis and R. rutilus), with no differences between the lakes. Esox lucius rods had remarkably long outer segments, 1.5–2.8‐fold longer than those of the other species. All species possessed middle‐wavelength‐sensitive (MWS) and long‐wavelength‐sensitive (LWS) cone pigments in single, twin or double cones. Rutilus rutilus also had two types of short‐wavelength sensitive (SWS) cones: UV‐sensitive [SWS1] and blue‐sensitive (SWS2) cones, although in the samples from LT no UV cones were found. No other within‐species differences in photoreceptor cell complements, absorption spectra or morphologies were found between the lakes. However, E. lucius eyes had a significantly lower focal ratio in LT compared with LV, enhancing sensitivity at the expense of acuity in the dark‐brown lake. Comparing species, S. lucioperca was estimated to have the highest visual sensitivity, at least two times higher than similar‐sized E. lucius, thanks to the large relative size of the eye (pupil) and the presence of a reflecting tapetum behind the retina. High absolute sensitivity will give a competitive edge also in terms of short reaction times and long visual range.
Morphological and genetic characterization of Hysterothylacium Ward & Magath, 1917 (Nematoda: Raphidascarididae) larvae in horse mackerel, blue whiting and anchovy from Spanish Atlantic and Mediterranean waters
Authors: Roca‐Geronès Xavier , Montoliu Isabel , Godínez‐González Carla , Fisa Roser , Shamsi Shokoofeh
Published: July 2018

The presence of zoonotic Hysterothylacium larvae in fish from Spanish Atlantic and Mediterranean waters, which can cause economic losses for commercial fisheries, has been reported in several studies; however, little is known about species identity in this region. The aim of this study was to identify at species level the Hysterothylacium morphotypes detected in three commonly consumed fish: horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus), blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) and anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus). Third‐ and fourth‐stage Hysterothylacium larvae, as well as adults obtained from larval in vitro culture, were morphologically and molecularly identified by ITS1/ITS2 rDNA sequencing. Four Hysterothylacium morphotypes were detected. Genetic analysis showed that morphotypes VIII and IX were different larval stages of Hysterothylacium aduncum, which was supported by cultured adult species identification. Morphotypes III and IV were found to correspond to different developmental stages of another species of Hysterothylacium. As all larval types detected were morphologically indistinguishable from others previously reported yet showed clear genetic differences, they are referred here as new genotypes. This is the first time that ITS‐sequence data of various developmental stages of the same species, including adults, have been studied and compared, providing crucial knowledge for future studies on Hysterothylacium identification and biology.
Applications and efficacy of platelet‐rich plasma in dermatology: A clinical review
Authors: Zhang Meijie , Park Gajin , Zhou Bingrong , Luo Dan
Published: July 2018

The platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has been studied in bone‐related applications for accelerating healing, and the proliferation and regeneration of tissue. Now the dermatological indications increase rapidly in recent years. We have reviewed clinical trials, comparative trials, and meta‐analysis of PRP on dermatology through key words and reorganized them into facial rejuvenation, hair, scar, vitiligo, and synergistic effect with fractional CO2, with a conclusion that PRP has significant improvements in dermatology. But the lack of RCTs and the limit of samples cannot provide sufficient enough evidence for general clinical applications. More RCTs are needed for the increasing demand of new dermatologic therapeutics, and we need adequate samples urgently to make the results more persuasive.
Prevalence and vaccination coverage of Hepatitis B among healthcare workers in Cameroon: A national seroprevalence survey
Authors: Bilounga Ndongo Chanceline , Eteki Lucrèce , Siedner Mark , Mbaye Rose , Chen Jennifer , Ntone Rodrigue , Donfack Olivier , Bongwong Brian , Essaka Evoue Rachel , Zeh Florence , Njouom Richard , Nguefack‐Tsague Georges , Etoundi Mballa Georges Alain , Biwole Sida Magloire , Boum Yap
Published: July 2018

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is hyperendemic in Cameroon, and healthcare workers (HCWs) are at high risk of infection. We aimed to assess prevalence, risk factors and vaccine coverage of HBV infection among HCWs in Cameroon. We conducted a cross‐sectional study in 16 hospitals across all regions of Cameroon. HCWs were tested for HBV using rapid diagnostic tests (RDT). We collected data on socio‐demographics and HBV vaccination status. We estimated prevalence of HBV and used Poisson regression models with robust standard errors to model the prevalence ratios of HBV positivity between covariates. We enrolled 1824 of 1836 eligible HCWs (97.5%). The mean age was 34 (SD: 10) years, 65.3% (n = 1787) were women, and 11.4% (n = 1747) had three or more doses of the HBV vaccine. Overall, we found a HBV prevalence of 8.7% (95% CI: 5.2%‐14.3%). Patient transporters had the highest crude prevalence (14.3%; 95%CI: 5.4%‐32.9%), whereas medical doctors had the lowest (3.2%; 95%CI: 0.8%‐12.1%). The Far North Region had the highest prevalence of HBV (24.0%; 95%CI: 18.3%‐30.8%). HBV prevalence decreased with increasing doses of the HBV vaccine (10.3% for no doses vs 3.5% for three or more doses; P < 0.001). In conclusion, approximately 1 in 12 HCWs in Cameroon have evidence of HBV infection, yet fewer than 1 in 6 have been fully vaccinated. Our results illustrate the urgent need to scale up systematic HBV screening and targeted vaccination of HCWs in the region.
Eliminating hepatitis C: The importance of frequent testing of people who inject drugs in high‐prevalence settings
Authors: Scott Nick , Sacks‐Davis Rachel , Pedrana Alisa , Doyle Joseph , Thompson Alexander , Hellard Margaret
Published: July 2018

Modelling suggests that more frequent screening of people who inject drugs (PWID) and an improved care cascade are required to achieve the WHO hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination target of an 80% reduction in incidence by 2030. We determined the testing frequencies (2‐yearly, annually, 6‐monthly and 3‐monthly) and retention in care required among PWID to achieve the HCV incidence reduction target through treatment as prevention in low (25%), medium (50%) and high (75%) chronic HCV prevalence settings. Mathematical modelling of HCV transmission among PWID, capturing testing, treatment and other features of the care cascade were employed. In low‐prevalence settings, 2‐yearly antibody testing of PWID was estimated to reach the elimination target by 2027‐2030 depending on retention in care, with annual testing reducing the time by up to 3 years. In medium‐prevalence settings, if close to 90% testing coverage were achieved, then annual antibody testing of PWID would be sufficient. If testing coverage were lower (80%), 6‐monthly antibody testing with at least 70% retention in care or annual HCV RNA/cAg testing would be required. In high‐prevalence settings, even 3‐monthly HCV RNA/cAg testing of PWID was unable to achieve the incidence reduction target. Thus, for geographical areas or subpopulations with high prevalence, WHO incidence targets are unlikely to be met without 3‐monthly RNA/cAg testing accompanied by other prevention measures. Novel testing strategies, such as rapid point‐of‐care antibody testing or replacing antibody testing with RNA/cAg tests as a screening tool, can provide additional population‐level impacts to compensate for imperfect follow‐up or testing coverage.
Commentary: A review of risk of hepatitis B and C transmission through biting or spitting
Authors: Pintilie Hannah , Brook Gary
Published: July 2018

A draft UK Parliamentary Bill sought to criminalize assaults on emergency workers through biting and spitting. This seemed to be based on a fear of bloodborne virus transmission. We undertook a literature search to clarify the risk of hepatitis infection from such exposures. We identified 245 possible papers and then reduced these to those relevant to HBV and HCV transmission through biting or spitting and the scientific plausibility. Nine papers were identified, reporting 16 possible cases of HBV (15 bites, 1 spitting) and 2 of HCV transmission (both bites). Only 3 HBV transmissions by bites and 1 by spitting and both HCV transmissions were felt to be plausible. Although both HBV DNA and HCV RNA can be found in the saliva of infected patients, it seems unlikely that there is enough to transmit infection unless there is blood contamination. In conclusion, the risk of acquiring HCV through spitting is negligible and is very low for HBV. The risk is also low for acquiring HBV and HCV through biting, especially if no blood is apparent in the saliva.
Estimating the impact of early hepatitis C virus clearance on hepatocellular carcinoma risk
Authors: Darvishian Maryam , Janjua Naveed Z. , Chong Mei , Cook Darrel , Samji Hasina , Butt Zahid A. , Yu Amanda , Alvarez Maria , Yoshida Eric , Ramji Alnoor , Wong Jason , Woods Ryan , Tyndall Mark , Krajden Mel
Published: July 2018

Although achieving sustained virological response (SVR) through antiviral therapy could reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) attributable to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the impact of early viral clearance on HCC is not well defined. In this study, we compared the risk of HCC among individuals who spontaneously cleared HCV (SC), the referent population, with the risk in untreated chronic HCV (UCHC), those achieved SVR, and those who failed interferon‐based treatment (TF). The BC Hepatitis Testers Cohort (BC‐HTC) includes individuals tested for HCV between 1990‐2013, integrated with medical visits, hospitalizations, cancers, prescription drugs and mortality data. This analysis included all HCV‐positive patients with at least one valid HCV RNA by PCR on or after HCV diagnosis. Of 46 666 HCV‐infected individuals, there were 12 527 (26.8%) SC; 24 794 (53.1%) UCHC; 5355 (11.5%) SVR and 3990 (8.5%) TF. HCC incidence was lowest (0.3/1000 person‐years (PY)) in the SC group and highest in the TF group (7.7/1000 PY). In a multivariable model, compared to SC, TF had the highest HCC risk (hazard ratio (HR):14.52, 95% confidence interval (CI): 9.83‐21.47), followed by UCHC (HR: 5.85; 95% CI: 4.07‐8.41). Earlier treatment‐based viral clearance similar to SC could decrease HCC incidence by 69.4% (95% CI: 57.5‐78.0), 30% (95% CI: 10.8‐45.1) and 77.5% (95% CI: 69.4‐83.5) among UCHC, SVR and TF patients, respectively. In conclusion, using SC as a real‐world comparator group, it showed that substantial reduction in HCC risk could be achieved with earlier treatment initiation. These analyses should be replicated in patients who have been treated with direct acting antiviral therapies.
Beavers affect carbon biogeochemistry: both short‐term and long‐term processes are involved
Authors: Nummi Petri , Vehkaoja Mia , Pumpanen Jukka , Ojala Anne
Published: July 2018

With the recent population increase in beavers (Castor spp.), a considerable amount of new riparian habitat has been created in the Holarctic. We evaluated how beaver‐induced floods affect carbon (C) dynamics in the beaver ponds and in the water‐atmosphere and riparian zone interfaces.

Beaver disturbance affects soil organic C storage by decreasing or increasing it, resulting in a redistribution of C. Upon flooding, the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) increases in the water. This C can be released into the atmosphere, it can settle down to the bottom sediments, it can be sequestered by vegetation, or it can be transported downstream. The carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions vary between 0.14 and 11.2 g CO2 m−2 day−1, averaging 4.9 CO2 g m−2 day−1. The methane (CH4) emissions vary too, from 27 mg m−2 day−1 to 919 mg m−2 day−1, averaging 222 mg CH4 m−2 day−1. Globally, C emission from beaver ponds in the form of CH4 and CO2 may be 3.33–4.62 Tg (teragram, 1012 g) year−1.

The yearly short‐term sedimentation rates in beaver ponds vary between 0.4 and 47 cm year−1, and individual ponds contain 9–6355 m3 of sediment. The approximate global estimate for yearly C sedimentation is 3.8 Tg C; beaver ponds globally contain 380 Tg sedimented C. After being formed, beaver pond deposits can remain for millennia.

Both C sequestration and CO2 and CH4 emissions in ponds of various ages should be taken into account when considering the net effect of beavers on the C dynamics. With present estimates, beaver ponds globally range from a sink (−0.47 Tg year−1) to a source (0.82 Tg year−1) of C. More research is needed with continuous flux measurements and from ponds of different ages. Likewise, there is a need for more studies in Eurasia to understand the effect of beaver on C biogeochemistry.
Prevalence and predictors of overweight and obesity among Cameroonian women in a national survey and relationships with waist circumference and inflammation in Yaoundé and Douala
Authors: Engle‐Stone Reina , Nankap Martin , Ndjebayi Alex O. , Friedman Avital , Tarini Ann , Brown Kenneth H. , Kaiser Lucia
Published: July 2018

Information on the distribution and predictors of obesity in Africa is needed to identify populations at risk and explore intervention options. Our objectives were to (a) examine the prevalence and geographic distribution of overweight and obesity among Cameroonian women; (b) evaluate change in anthropometric indicators among urban women between 2009 and 2012; (c) examine associations between household and individual characteristics and overweight and obesity; and (d) examine relationships between body mass index (BMI), abdominal obesity, and inflammation. We analysed data from a nationally representative survey conducted in 3 geographic strata (North, South, and Yaoundé/Douala) in Cameroon in 2009 and a survey in Yaoundé/Douala in 2012. Participants selected for this analysis were nonpregnant women, ages 15–49 years (n = 704 in 2009; n = 243 in 2012). In 2009, ~8% of women were underweight (BMI < 18.5) and 32% overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25.0). Underweight was most common in the North (19%) and overweight and obesity in the South (40%) and Yaoundé/Douala (49%). Prevalence of BMI ≥ 25.0 in Yaoundé/Douala did not differ in 2012 compared with 2009 (55.5% vs. 48.7%; P = 0.16). Residence in urban areas, greater maternal age, and TV ownership were independently related to overweight and obesity in national and stratified analyses. In Yaoundé/Douala in 2012, 48% (waist‐to‐hip ratio > 0.85) to 73% (waist circumference > 80 cm) had abdominal obesity. Body mass index was positively associated with abdominal obesity and inflammation. Though causal inferences cannot be drawn, these findings indicate population subgroups at greatest risk for overweight and associated health consequences in Cameroon.
Silencing PsKPP4, a MAP kinase kinase kinase gene, reduces pathogenicity of the stripe rust fungus
Authors: Zhu Xiaoguo , Guo Jia , He Fuxin , Zhang Yang , Tan Chenglong , Yang Qian , Huang Chuanming , Kang Zhensheng , Guo Jun
Published: July 2018

Many obligately parasitic pathogens absorb nutrients from host plants via specialized infection structures, called haustoria and infection hyphae, to further colonization and growth in the host plant. In the wheat (Triticum aestivum) stripe rust fungus, Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), the mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MAPKK) PsFUZ7 is involved in the regulation of haustorium formation and invasive growth. Here, we functionally characterized PsKPP4 of Pst, which is homologous to the yeast MAPKKK STE11. Similar to the silencing of PsFUZ7, the knockdown of PsKPP4 was detected in the vegetative hyphae and haustoria, resulting in the reduced pathogenicity of Pst. Pst urediniospores treated with the STE11 MAPKKK activation inhibitor produced deformed germ tubes. In addition, overexpression of PsKPP4 in fission yeast resulted in the production of fusiform cells and increased tolerance of yeast cells to oxidative stress. The transformation of PsKPP4 into the mst11 mutant of Magnaporthe oryzae partially restored mst11 function. The PsKPP4 protein contains a sterile alpha motif (SAM), Ras association (RA) and kinase domains, similar to its homologues in other fungi. Yeast two‐hybrid assays revealed that the SAM domain is essential for the interaction between PsKPP4 and PsUBC2, a homologue of Ustilago maydis UBC2, known to interact with KPP4, which is associated with the regulation of the Fus3 cascade. Host‐induced gene silencing of PsUBC2 reduced the pathogenicity of Pst slightly, indicating that PsUBC2 also plays a minor role in the regulation of the infection pathway of Pst. These observations indicate that PsKPP4, interacting with PsUBC2, may play an important role in the regulation of infection‐related morphogenesis in Pst.
Fungal attack and host defence pathways unveiled in near‐avirulent interactions of Penicillium expansum creA mutants on apples
Authors: Tannous Joanna , Kumar Dilip , Sela Noa , Sionov Edward , Prusky Dov , Keller Nancy P.
Published: July 2018

Amongst the universal diseases affecting apples, blue mould caused by Penicillium expansum is a major concern, resulting in yield and quality losses as a result of the production of the mycotoxin patulin. Despite the characterization of the patulin biosynthetic gene cluster at both the molecular and chemical levels, the underlying regulation of patulin biosynthesis in P. expansum and the mechanisms of apple colonization remain largely obscure. Recent work has indicated that sucrose, a carbon catabolite repressive metabolite, is a critical factor in the regulation of patulin synthesis. Here, CreA, the global carbon catabolite regulator, was assessed for virulence both in vitro and in vivo. We showed that loss‐of‐function creA strains were nearly avirulent and did not produce patulin in apples. On the basis of RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) analysis and physiological experimentation, these mutants were unable to successfully colonize apples for a multitude of potential mechanisms including, on the pathogen side, a decreased ability to produce proteolytic enzymes and to acidify the environment and impaired carbon/nitrogen metabolism and, on the host side, an increase in the oxidative defence pathways. Our study defines CreA and its downstream signalling pathways as promising targets for the development of strategies to fight against the development and virulence of this post‐harvest pathogen.
Small‐scale indirect plant responses to insect herbivory could have major impacts on canopy photosynthesis and isoprene emission
Authors: Visakorpi Kristiina , Gripenberg Sofia , Malhi Yadvinder , Bolas Conor , Oliveras Imma , Harris Neil , Rifai Sami , Riutta Terhi
Published: July 2018

Insect herbivores cause substantial changes in the leaves they attack, but their effects on the ecophysiology of neighbouring, nondamaged leaves have never been quantified in natural canopies. We studied how winter moth (Operophtera brumata), a common herbivore in temperate forests, affects the photosynthetic and isoprene emission rates of its host plant, the pedunculate oak (Quercus robur).

Through a manipulative experiment, we measured leaves on shoots damaged by caterpillars or mechanically by cutting, or left completely intact. To quantify the effects at the canopy scale, we surveyed the extent and patterns of leaf area loss in the canopy.

Herbivory reduced photosynthesis both in damaged leaves and in their intact neighbours. Isoprene emission rates significantly increased after mechanical leaf damage. When scaled up to canopy‐level, herbivory reduced photosynthesis by 48 ± 10%.

The indirect effects of herbivory on photosynthesis in undamaged leaves (40%) were much more important than the direct effects of leaf area loss (6%). If widespread across other plant–herbivore systems, these findings suggest that insect herbivory has major and previously underappreciated influences in modifying ecosystem carbon cycling, with potential effects on atmospheric chemistry.
Body fatness at a young age and risks of eight types of cancer: systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Hidayat K. , Du X. , Shi B.‐M.
Published: July 2018

The associations between body fatness at a young age (childhood, adolescence and young adulthood; age ≤ 30 years) and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), oesophageal adenocarcinoma, gastric cardia cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, multiple myeloma, pancreatic cancer, renal cell cancer and thyroid cancer remain inconclusive. We performed a comprehensive systematic literature review and meta‐analysis of observational studies to clarify the associations between body fatness at a young age and the risks of these cancers. PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant observational studies. Fifty‐six articles yielded data on 27,559 cancer cases, including 3,170 DLBCL, 1,491 oesophageal adenocarcinoma, 1,103 gastric cardia cancer, 1,067 hepatocellular carcinoma, 3,090 multiple myeloma, 7,220 pancreatic cancer, 6,212 renal cell cancer and 4,206 thyroid cancer cases. Each 5 kg m−2increase in body mass index at a young age was positively associated with DLBCL (relative risk [RR] 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09, 1.35), oesophageal adenocarcinoma (RR 1.88, 95% CI 1.37, 2.57), gastric cardia cancer (RR 1.59, 95% CI 1.15, 2.21), hepatocellular carcinoma (RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.13, 1.51), multiple myeloma (RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.15, 1.30), pancreatic cancer (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.11, 1.24), renal cell cancer (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.16, 1.28) and thyroid cancer (RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.07, 1.17). In summary, higher body fatness at a young age increases the risks of developing various types of cancer later in life. Prevention of overweight and obesity in children, adolescents and young adults should therefore be emphasized to reverse the obesity epidemic and thereby avoid further increases in the burden of cancer attributed to excess body fatness.
Work‐related psychosocial factors and metabolic syndrome onset among workers: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Watanabe K. , Sakuraya A. , Kawakami N. , Imamura K. , Ando E. , Asai Y. , Eguchi H. , Kobayashi Y. , Nishida N. , Arima H. , Shimazu A. , Tsutsumi A.
Published: July 2018

Background

Work‐related psychosocial factors have been associated with metabolic syndrome. However, no systematic reviews or meta‐analyses have evaluated this association.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted, using PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES and the Japan Medical Abstracts Society. Eligible studies included those that examined the previously mentioned association; had a longitudinal or prospective cohort design; were conducted among workers; provided sufficient data for calculating odds ratios, relative risks or hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals; were original articles in English or Japanese; and were published no later than 2016. Study characteristics, exposure and outcome variables and association measures of studies were extracted by the investigators independently.

Results

Among 4,664 identified studies, 8 were eligible for review and meta‐analysis. The pooled risk of adverse work‐related stress on metabolic syndrome onset was significant and positive (RR = 1.47; 95% CI, 1.22–1.78). Sensitivity analyses limiting only the effects of job strain and shift work also indicated a significant positive relationship (RR = 1.75; 95% CI, 1.09–2.79; and RR = 1.59; 95% CI, 1.00–2.54, P = 0.049 respectively).

Conclusion

This study reveals a strong positive association between work‐related psychosocial factors and an elevated risk of metabolic syndrome onset. The effects of job strain and shift work on metabolic syndrome appear to be significant.
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma drives long interspersed element‐1 hypomethylation in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Arayataweegool Areeya , Srisuttee Ratakorn , Mahattanasakul Patnarin , Tangjaturonsasme Napadon , Kerekhanjanarong Virachai , Kitkumthorn Nakarin , Mutirangura Apiwat
Published: July 2018

Objective

Alteration of long interspersed element‐1 (LINE‐1) methylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) has been simultaneously activated to breast carcinogenesis due to its secretion. To evaluate the effect in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), LINE‐1 methylation levels and patterns have been measured both in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Analysis of LINE‐1 methylation in cocultured models between HNSCC cell lines and normal PBMCs was performed. The observation of PBMCs of HNSCC patients compared to PBMCs of normal controls was performed using the semiquantitative combined bisulfite restriction analysis technique.

Results

Downregulation of LINE‐1 methylation was significantly found in the PBMCs cocultured with all HNSCC cell lines compared to normal PBMCs. Likewise, a reduction in LINE‐1 methylation levels was observed in PBMCs of HNSCC compared to normal PBMCs (p < 0.0001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated the potential of the unmethylated alleles (uCuC) of LINE‐1 for distinguishing the PBMCs of HNSCC patients from normal controls with 100% sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusion

Our data supported that the alteration of LINE‐1 methylation levels in PBMCs was influenced by HNSCC secretions. Moreover, the unmethylated LINE‐1 allele of PBMCs was proved to be an effective tumor marker and possesses a potential as HNSCC diagnostic tool.
Impacts of urbanization on insect herbivory and plant defences in oak trees
Authors: Moreira Xoaquín , Abdala‐Roberts Luis , Berny Mier y Teran Jorge C. , Covelo Felisa , de la Mata Raúl , Francisco Marta , Hardwick Bess , Pires Ricardo Matheus , Roslin Tomas , Schigel Dmitry S. , ten Hoopen Jan P. J. G. , Timmermans Bart G. H. , van Dijk Laura J. A. , Castagneyrol Bastien , Tack Ayco J. M.
Published: July 2018

Systematic comparisons of species interactions in urban versus rural environments can improve our understanding of shifts in ecological processes due to urbanization. However, such studies are relatively uncommon and the mechanisms driving urbanization effects on species interactions (e.g. between plants and insect herbivores) remain elusive. Here we investigated the effects of urbanization on leaf herbivory by insect chewers and miners associated with the English oak Quercus robur by sampling trees in rural and urban areas throughout most of the latitudinal distribution of this species. In performing these comparisons, we also controlled for the size of the urban areas (18 cities) and gathered data on CO2 emissions. In addition, we assessed whether urbanization affected leaf chemical defences (phenolic compounds) and nutritional traits (phosphorus and nitrogen), and whether such changes correlated with herbivory levels. Urbanization significantly reduced leaf chewer damage but did not affect leaf miners. In addition, we found that leaves from urban locations had lower levels of chemical defences (condensed and hydrolysable tannins) and higher levels of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) compared to leaves in rural locations. The magnitude of urbanization effects on herbivory and leaf defences was not contingent upon city size. Importantly, while the effects of urbanization on chemical defences were associated with CO2 emissions, changes in leaf chewer damage were not associated with either leaf traits or CO2 levels. These results suggest that effects of urbanization on herbivory occur through mechanisms other than changes in the plant traits measured here. Overall, our simultaneous assessment of insect herbivory, plant traits and abiotic correlates advances our understanding of the main drivers of urbanization effects on plant–herbivore interactions.
Impact of pulsed UV‐B stress exposure on plant performance: How recovery periods stimulate secondary metabolism while reducing adaptive growth attenuation
Authors: Höll Janine , Lindner Sonja , Walter Hannah , Joshi Drishti , Poschet Gernot , Pfleger Sina , Ziegler Tobias , Hell Rüdiger , Bogs Jochen , Rausch Thomas
Published: July 2018

Upon continuous stress exposure, plants display attenuated metabolic stress responses due to regulatory feedback loops. Here, we have tested the hypothesis that pulsed stress exposure with intervening recovery periods should affect these feedback loops, thereby causing increased accumulation of stress‐induced metabolites. The response of Arabidopsis plantlets to continuous UV‐B exposure (Cuv) was compared with that of pulsed UV‐B exposure (Puv). The differential responses to Puv versus Cuv were monitored at the level of gene expression and metabolite accumulation, using wild type (WT) and different mutant lines. In comparison with Cuv, Puv increased sinapyl and flavonol (S + F) content, whereas adaptive growth attenuation was reduced. Furthermore, in a myb4 mutant (AtMYB4, repressor‐type R2R3‐MYB transcription factor), the S + F content was increased only for Cuv, but not beyond the level for Puv observed in WT. These observations and the ability of AtMYB4 to repress AtMYB12/AtMYB111‐mediated activation of target gene promoters (pCHS and pFLS) indicate that the increase of S + F content after Puv observed in WT plants results from reduced feedback inhibition by AtMYB4. The results support the notion that stress‐induced metabolic changes not necessarily cause a growth penalty. Furthermore, the observed Puv‐induced increase in flavonol accumulation may stimulate reevaluation of commercial plant production practices.
Processes that determine the interplay of root exudation, methane emission and yield in rice agriculture
Authors: Maurer D. , Kiese R. , Kreuzwieser J. , Rennenberg H.
Published: July 2018

Rice is the most important staple food for half of the world's population, but also accounts for about 10% of all anthropogenic CH4 emissions. In spite of a wealth of information on the mechanistic basis and the importance of the rice plant in mediating these emissions, the significance of root exudation for CH4 emissions and the processes that determine root exudation are not well understood. Root exudates derive from photosynthate allocated to the root and subjected to root anabolic and catabolic processes. Key processes in roots that determine the extent of root exudation and, hence, CH4 emission from rice agriculture, include (i) deviation of metabolites from root anabolic and catabolic pathways facilitating root exudation, but also (ii) xylem loading and transport of potential root exudates for reallocation to the leaves, and (iii) xylem loading of sucrose in roots for its transport into reproductive organs, both suppressing root exudation. These processes are modulated by plant development and metabolic requirements resulting from different functions of root exudation. In the present report the interplay of root exudation, CH4 emission and yield are discussed.
Rotavirus vaccination and short‐term risk of adverse events in US infants
Authors: Layton J. Bradley , Butler Anne M. , Panozzo Catherine A. , Brookhart M. Alan
Published: July 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the short‐term risk of adverse events associated with rotavirus vaccine (RV) in infants, overall and by vaccine formulation (three‐dose pentavalent, RV5; two‐dose monovalent, RV1).

Methods

We identified US newborns with commercial insurance during 2006‐2014 receiving a diphtheria‐tetanus‐pertussis vaccine (DTaP) dose and assessed if RV was administered concurrently. We followed infants for 30 days after each dose for diagnoses of intussusception, other gastrointestinal events, seizures, Kawasaki disease, thrombocytopenia, otitis media, all‐cause emergency department visits, and all‐cause hospitalisations. We estimated adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with multivariable Cox proportional hazards models comparing: (a) those receiving DTaP+RV vs those receiving DTaP alone; and (b) RV5 vs RV1. Analyses were performed separately within DTaP doses and then meta‐analysed across doses.

Results

We identified 1 031 431 first DTaP doses, 821 833 second doses, and 615 293 third doses; 79.2% had a concurrent RV, 94.1% of which were RV5. Absolute risks of serious outcomes were very low. Compared to infants who received DTaP alone, infants who received RV+DTaP did not experience consistently increased risk of intussusception (hazard ratio [HR] 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68, 1.88) or any other outcome except for otitis media after dose 2: HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.08, 1.15. This increased otitis media risk was not as pronounced in RV5 when comparing RV5 to RV1; HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.89, 0.95.

Conclusions

These data were not consistent with an increased risk of intussusception or other adverse events following vaccination with RV, except potentially for a small increased risk of otitis media, particularly in RV1.
A note on the distribution of the product of zero‐mean correlated normal random variables
Authors: Gaunt Robert E.
Published: July 2018

The problem of finding an explicit formula for the probability density function of two zero‐mean correlated normal random variables dates back to 1936. Perhaps, surprisingly, this problem was not resolved until 2016. This is all the more surprising given that a very simple proof is available, which is the subject of this note; we identify the product of two zero‐mean correlated normal random variables as a variance‐gamma random variable, from which an explicit formula for the probability density function is immediate.
Deletion of the miR172 target site in a TOE‐type gene is a strong candidate variant for dominant double‐flower trait in Rosaceae
Authors: Gattolin Stefano , Cirilli Marco , Pacheco Igor , Ciacciulli Angelo , Da Silva Linge Cássia , Mauroux Jehan‐Baptiste , Lambert Patrick , Cammarata Elia , Bassi Daniele , Pascal Thierry , Rossini Laura
Published: July 2018

Double flowers with supernumerary petals have been selected by humans for their attractive appearance and commercial value in several ornamental plants, including Prunus persica (peach), a recognized model for Rosaceae genetics and genomics. Despite the relevance of this trait, knowledge of the underlying genes is limited. Of two distinct loci controlling the double‐flower phenotype in peach, we focused on the dominant Di2 locus. High‐resolution linkage mapping in five segregating progenies delimited Di2 to an interval spanning 150 858 bp and 22 genes, including Prupe.6G242400 encoding an euAP2 transcription factor. Analyzing genomic resequencing data from single‐ and double‐flower accessions, we identified a deletion spanning the binding site for miR172 in Prupe.6G242400 as a candidate variant for the double‐flower trait, and we showed transcript expression for both wild‐type and deleted alleles. Consistent with the proposed role in controlling petal number, Prupe.6G242400 is expressed in buds at critical times for floral development. The indelDi2 molecular marker designed on this sequence variant co‐segregated with the phenotype in 621 progenies, accounting for the dominant inheritance of the Di2 locus. Further corroborating the results in peach, we identified a distinct but similar mutation in the ortholog of Prupe.6G242400 in double‐flower roses. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these two genes belong to a TARGET OF EAT (TOE)‐type clade not represented in Arabidopsis, indicating a divergence of gene functions between AP2‐type and TOE‐type factors in Arabidopsis and other species. The identification of orthologous candidate genes for the double‐flower phenotype in two important Rosaceae species provides valuable information to understand the genetic control of this trait in other major ornamental plants.
Monitoring ecological change inUKwoodlands and rivers: An exploration of the relational geographies of citizen science
Authors: Dunkley Ria Ann
Published: July 2018

The adoption of citizen science methodologies by environmental organisations and ecologists entrusts the task of collecting ecological data to non‐experts operating at a local scale. This presents individuals and communities with opportunities to monitor ecological change and contribute to local environmental management. Little is known about why volunteers choose to participate in burgeoning contemporary citizen science research initiatives. The aim of this paper is thus to explore volunteer motivation for involvement in two environmental citizen science initiatives, based in the United Kingdom. It contributes to understandings of the socio‐geographical influences that act on participation in environmental citizen science. It is proposed within this paper that affective connections with local geographies provide a conceptual framework for understanding citizen science motivations. The paper discusses the main themes emerging from site‐based, in‐depth interviews with 22 citizen science participants in variousUKlocations. The study revealed that early affective bonds formed with ecological spaces endured throughout life courses, while citizen science participation offered a way of remaining connected to local environments. The paper reflects on the endurance of affective environmental bonds and their manifestation within the expressed motivations for citizen science participation, which emerged as fulfilling a compulsion to observe ecological surroundings, a desire to participate in environmental research and a commitment to protecting local environments. The paper proposes that citizen science participation offers a framework to connect to and protect local and global affinity spaces, while assisting in monitoring global environmental change.
Composition of trade flows and the effectiveness of fiscal devaluation
Authors: Holzner Mario , Tkalec Marina , Vukšić Goran
Published: July 2018

We empirically explore whether the magnitude of the effects of fiscal devaluation, which consists of reducing the employers’ social security contribution rate and increasing the value‐added tax rate, depends on the composition of trade flows. Our sample comprises data on bilateral balances of trade between 28 European Union (EU) Member States and their main EU trade partners over the 2000–14 period. We use robust ordinary least squares regressions, controlling for the country‐pair and time fixed effects, to test whether there are differences in the sizes of relationships between these taxation forms and bilateral trade balances for different types of goods, by distinguishing between: (i) consumer, intermediate and capital goods; and (ii) labour and capital‐intensive goods. Our results show that the overall effectiveness of fiscal devaluation depends on the composition of trade flows. Value‐added tax is more strongly (positively) associated with (bilateral) balances of trade in consumer goods, compared to balances of trade in capital and intermediate goods. The employers’ contribution rate, in contrast, is more tightly (negatively) related to balances of trade in capital goods. The latter finding also holds true for trade balances of labour‐intensive goods compared to balances of capital‐intensive goods.
Modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy in 25 dogs
Authors: Christ Jeffrey P. , Anderson Jonathan R. , Youk Ada O.
Published: July 2018

Objective

To describe the planning of a modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy (mCCWO) and determine the accuracy of execution without intraoperative jigs or alignment guides.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Twenty‐five client‐owned dogs (32 stifles) with cranial cruciate ligament disease.

Methods

Medical records of dogs treated with mCCWO between July 2014 and December 2016 were reviewed. Preoperative, postoperative, and 8‐week‐recheck radiographs were reviewed to measure changes in the conformation of the proximal tibia. The accuracy of execution was assessed by comparing planned and actual postoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA) and the lengths of bone contact along osteotomy lines. Radiographic healing and clinical outcome were subjectively evaluated 8 weeks after surgery.

Results

Preoperative planning of mCCWO decreased the cranial wedge length by a mean of 23% compared with the traditional CCWO planning. Mean TPA decreased from 40.69 ° (range 28‐63) to 6.94 ° (range 2‐20) after surgery (P < .001). Mean tibial length decreased by 0.5 mm (±0.16, P = .003), from 138 mm (range 65‐267) to 137.5 mm (range 65‐265) after mCCWO. The tibial long axis (TLA) shifted by a mean of 3.47 ° (range 0‐10). Planned and actual postoperative TPA differed by −0.66 ° (±0.47, P = .034). The proximal and distal apposing osteotomies differed in length by 1.81 mm (±0.35). No bone healing complications or implant failures were diagnosed, and all dogs returned to subjectively satisfactory function by 8 weeks after surgery.

Conclusion

The preoperative planning and methods of execution of the mCCWO resulted in differences in target TPA and postoperative TPA, differences in lengths of proximal and distal osteotomies, and tibial shortening that did not appear clinically significant in this study.

Clinical significance

mCCWO can be planned and accurately executed without consideration of TLA shift or the intraoperative use of alignment guides or jigs.