bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reshaping the social security agency around improved human capital and technology
Authors: Gujral Gaurav
Published: December 2016

Social security systems around the world evolved at different times, at different speeds, for often very different needs. But now each country faces a universal truth: their social security organizations must be truly adaptive, ready to deliver a new type of service at a time of constant technological and social change. Each social security system is approaching this daunting task in their own way – a grand social experiment in how agencies can provide a proactive, personalized service that meets their citizens’ ever‐changing needs. The results are simply unknown. This article intends to start the debate on what is and is not working, and indeed on how agencies should measure their progress in moving away from the traditional transactional model. The challenges they face are immense. Populations are ageing and social security budgets are shrinking. Meanwhile, the pace of digital change is matched only by the soaring rate of customer expectations. But the opportunities are of similar scale. Advanced technology, automation and new partnerships between public‐sector agencies promise a much smarter, more insight‐driven service for all. Technology is only one side of this equation. As part of rethinking their entire mission, social security agencies will need new workers with new sets of skills, and for their existing workers to adapt and embrace their changing roles. None of this will be straightforward. Whatever the original purpose of the social security organization, it has now changed irrevocably. But with the right combination of talent and technology, agencies can aspire to a new model: one that is flexible enough to withstand economic and social shock and resilient enough for the challenges that lie ahead.
Investments in the global health workforce are imperative to achieve social security for all
Authors: Dhillon Ibadat , Campbell Jim , McKinnon Roddy
Published: December 2016

As part of international efforts framed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to extend sustainable and adequate social security coverage, social security systems are increasingly looking to deliver holistic policy responses that meet the different needs of people across the life course. To achieve these objectives globally, not only must the design and goals of social security programmes be recalibrated but significant investments in the health workforce are required. Yet, a fundamental challenge is the current and projected mismatch between the global supply, demand, and need for health workers. A number of critical issues require attention: the need for more and better investments in the health workforce; recognition that the health workforce is not gender neutral and that policies that appropriately recognize, value, and reward women’s work in health are of utmost importance; and that political will at the highest level and action across sectors is necessary to allow the required changes
Genetic polymorphism of heme oxygenase 1 promoter in the occurrence and severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Hongbin , Ying Xiwang , Liu Yuanshun , Ye Sa , Yan Jianping , Li Yaqing
Published: December 2016

Heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1) plays an important role in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the association of HMOX1 length polymorphism in promoter region to the risk and severity of COPD has not been well studied. In this study, we searched the databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and extracted the information from related articles. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to study the effect of HMOX1 polymorphism on the risk and severity of COPD. As a result, nine studies were included for this meta‐analysis. Higher frequencies of L allele and type I genotype (containing at least one L allele) were found in patients with COPD (for L allele, OR 2.02, 95% CI: 1.32–3.11, P = 0.001; for type I genotype, OR 1.82, 95% CI: 1.28–2.61, P = 0.001), especially in Asian population (for L allele, OR 2.23, 95% CI: 1.68–2.95, P < 0.001; for type I genotype, OR 2.02, 95% CI: 1.51–2.70, P < 0.001). Genotyping method, source of control subjects, literature quality and language also affected the results to some extent. However, there was little difference in HMOX1 genotypes distribution in patients with COPD with different severity. Our study indicated L allele and type I genotype were related to the susceptibility but not the severity of COPD.
Melanocortin receptor agonists MCR1‐5 protect photoreceptors from high‐glucose damage and restore antioxidant enzymes in primary retinal cell culture
Authors: Maisto Rosa , Gesualdo Carlo , Trotta Maria Consiglia , Grieco Paolo , Testa Francesco , Simonelli Francesca , Barcia Jorge Miquel , D'Amico Michele , Di Filippo Clara , Rossi Settimio
Published: December 2016

Retinal photoreceptors are particularly vulnerable to local high‐glucose concentrations. Oxidative stress is a risk factor for diabetic retinopathy development. Melanocortin receptors represent a family of G‐protein‐coupled receptors classified in five subtypes and are expressed in retina. Our previous data indicate that subtypes 1 and 5 receptor agonists exert a protective role on experimental diabetic retinopathy. This study focuses on their role in primary retinal cell cultures in high‐glucose concentrations. After eye enucleation from wild‐type male C57BL/6 mice, retinal cells were isolated, plated in high‐glucose concentration and treated with melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 agonists and antagonists. Immunocytochemical and biochemical analysis showed that treatment with melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 agonists reduced anti‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and enhanced manganese superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels, preserving photoreceptor integrity. According with these evidences, we propose a major role of melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 on primary retinal cell response against high glucose or oxidative insults.
Nursing home manager's knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about advance care planning for people with dementia in long‐term care settings: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Beck Esther‐Ruth , McIlfatrick Sonja , Hasson Felicity , Leavey Gerry
Published: December 2016

Aims and objectives

To examine nursing home managers’ knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and current practice regarding advance care planning for people with dementia in long‐term care settings informed by the theory of planned behaviour.

Background

Internationally, advance care planning is advocated for people with dementia. However, evidence suggests that discussions with people with dementia are rare, particularly in long‐term care settings. Whilst nursing home managers can be considered central to implementation in this setting, there is a dearth of research that has examined their perspective. This study reports on their role with regard to advance care planning and the perceived factors which influence this.

Design

A cross‐sectional postal survey was carried out as part of a larger scale sequential explanatory mixed‐methods study between January–March 2015.

Setting and participants

Nursing home managers in a region in the UK (n = 178).

Results

A response rate of 66% (n = 116) was achieved. Nursing home managers demonstrated a lack of knowledge of advance care planning, with negative attitudes underpinned by concerns regarding the capacity and lack of perceived benefits to the person with dementia. Currently, they do not view advance care planning as part of their role, with lack of ownership impacting upon current practice behaviours.

Conclusions

Whilst nursing home managers recognise the potential benefits of advance care planning, barriers and challenges create a reluctance to facilitate. Targeted training to address the knowledge deficit is required, with the wider components of advance care planning promoted. There is a need for greater role clarification to ensure nurses in long‐term care settings identify with the process in the future. A gap between rhetoric and reality of implementation is evident; therefore, long‐term care settings must critically examine system, organisational and individual factors for failure to implement advance care planning for people with dementia.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Increased cognisance of the context in which advance care planning takes place is vital for improved implementation in this context.

In addition strong nursing leadership is imperative to facilitate initiation, engagement and re‐evaluation of the process of advance care planning.
Liver dysfunction in women with pregnancy‐induced antithrombin deficiency
Authors: Morikawa Mamoru , Kawabata Kosuke , Kato‐Hirayama Emi , Oda Yasunari , Ueda Hiroto , Kataoka Soromon , Yamada Takashi , Okuyama Kazuhiko , Sengoku Kazuo , Minakami Hisanori
Published: December 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine whether women with pregnancy‐induced antithrombin deficiency (PIATD) had higher risk of liver dysfunction in the absence of thrombocytopenia.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective observational study at five centers in all 129 women with incidentally found PIATD among 5249 maternities and 129 control women without PIATD matched for number of fetuses and gestational week at delivery. PIATD was diagnosed in women with antenatal antithrombin (AT) activities of ≤75% followed by a further decrease to ≤65% peripartum. Liver dysfunction was defined as serum aspartate aminotransferase >  45 IU/L concomitant with lactate dehydrogenase >  400 IU/L. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count < 120 × 109/L.

Results

Thrombocytopenia (22% [28/129] vs 5.4% [7/129], P =  0.0001) and liver dysfunction (16% [20/129] vs 0.0% [0/129], P =  0.0000) occurred significantly more often in PIATD than in control women. Of the 20 women with liver dysfunction, 15 (75%) had PIATD, but not thrombocytopenia. Thus, even in the absence of thrombocytopenia, liver dysfunction occurred significantly more often in PIATD than in control women (15% [15/101] vs 0.0% [0/122], respectively, P =  0.0000). The relative risk (95% confidence interval) of liver dysfunction was 28.6 (1.64–500) for women with AT activity of 60–65% and 52.4 (3.17–865) for women with AT activity of <60%, compared to women with AT activity ≥66%.

Conclusion

PIATD can occur in the absence of thrombocytopenia and PIATD women had higher risk of liver dysfunction even in the absence of thrombocytopenia.
Phatic Violence? Gambling and the Arts of Distraction in Laos
Authors: Zuckerman Charles H. P.
Published: December 2016

“Tempted,” as he put it, by the “demon of terminological invention,” Malinowski first coined the term “phatic” as one half of a two‐word compound, “phatic communion.” Since Malinowski, “phatic” has often been used to imply a semiotic equation where mere communicative contact automatically produces positive social relations among those communicating. This article explores a genre of “trash talk” on the pétanque gambling courts of Luang Prabang, Laos to challenge this assumption and clarify multiple senses of “phaticity.” With close attention to talk used not for positive communion but for distraction, I argue that communicative contact as a technical phenomenon must be separated from communicative contact as a sign of other kinds of meaning.
Quantitative Analysis of Extracranial Arterial Tortuosity in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Buch Karen , Arya Rahul , Shah Bhavya , Nadgir Rohini N. , Saito Naoko , Qureshi Muhammad M. , Sakai Osamu
Published: December 2016

PURPOSE

Compared to the intracranial vasculature in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients, the morphologic changes of the extracranial vasculature in SCD patients are less well understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the tortuosity of the extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries in patients with SCD compared to age‐matched controls.

METHODS

Following Institution Review Board approval, between January 2004 and December 2013, Magnetic resonance angiogram neck examinations were retrospectively reviewed on 56 patients with SCD and 56 age‐matched controls. Vessel tortuosity was measured as curved vector lengths in the common carotid, extracranial internal carotid, and vertebral arteries bilaterally. Correlation of vessel tortuosity with age and hematocrit level was assessed. Paired and unpaired Student's t‐tests were performed to determine within and between group differences.

RESULTS

Greater tortuosity in extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries were noted in patients with SCD as compared to age‐matched control patients (P < .001). Greater differences in tortuosity between carotid and vertebral arteries were noted in SCD patients as compared to differences in control patients. Incidence of infarction was significantly associated with greater tortuosity of right carotid (P = .002), right (P = .004), and left (P = .020) vertebral arteries.

CONCLUSIONS

Extracranial carotid and vertebral arterial tortuosity is increased in SCD patients. This could be related to aberrations in hemodynamics from nonlaminar flow in these vessels. These increases in extracranial vascular tortuosity could potentially lead to alterations in intracranial vascular tortuosity and may be an independent risk factor for cerebral infarct.
Mandibular movements and bite force in Alzheimer's disease before and after new denture insertion
Authors: Campos C. H. , Ribeiro G. R. , Stella F. , Rodrigues Garcia R. C. M.
Published: December 2016

Chewing impairment has been observed in elders with Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, it is unknown whether oral rehabilitation can improve their masticatory function. This study evaluated the influence of new removable prostheses on chewing function of patients with AD. Participants using removable dentures were divided into two groups: patients with mild AD (77·2 ± 5·8 years, n = 16) and controls (76·0 ± 4·4, n = 16). All participants received general dental treatment and new total and/or partial removable prostheses. After 2 months of adaptation to the new dentures, chewing was evaluated by the following parameters: masticatory cycle time (CT), cycle velocity (CV), and opening (OA) and closing mandibular angles (CA), registered by a kinesiographic device. Maximum bite force (MBF) was assessed using a strain sensor. Evaluations were performed at baseline and after insertion of the new prostheses. A mixed model (α = 5%) was used for within‐ and between‐subject analyses. After insertion of new prostheses, CT was reduced, and CV and MBF were increased in both groups (P < 0·05). There were no changes in OA or CA (P > 0·05). Compared to controls, elders with AD showed higher CT and reduced MBF and CV both at baseline and after insertion of new prostheses (P < 0·05). However, OA and CA did not differ between groups (P > 0·05). Insertion of new removable prostheses improved masticatory function in elders with and without AD, but patients with mild AD still had reduced chewing parameters compared to controls.
Dynamic Moral Hazard: A Longitudinal Examination of Automobile Insurance in Canada
Authors: Shi Peng , Zhang Wei , Boucher Jean‐Philippe
Published: December 2016

This article examines moral hazard in the context of dynamic contracting in automobile insurance. Economic theory shows that experience rating of insurers results in state dependence of driving behavior under moral hazard. The empirical analysis is performed using a longitudinal data set from a Canadian automobile insurer. We employ dynamic nonlinear panel data models to distinguish the structural and spurious state dependence, and thus moral hazard and selection on unobservables. As a measure of the riskiness of driving, we consider the frequency, the number, as well as the cost of claims for the policyholder. We find that the state dependence in claim cost reflects both structural and spurious relationships, supporting the moral hazard hypothesis. However, the state dependence in claim occurrence is solely due to unobserved heterogeneity.
Association between patterns of jaw motor activity during sleep and clinical signs and symptoms of sleep bruxism
Authors: Yoshida Yuya , Suganuma Takeshi , Takaba Masayuki , Ono Yasuhiro , Abe Yuka , Yoshizawa Shuichiro , Sakai Takuro , Yoshizawa Ayako , Nakamura Hirotaka , Kawana Fusae , Baba Kazuyoshi
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between patterns of jaw motor activity during sleep and clinical signs and symptoms of sleep bruxism. A total of 35 university students and staff members participated in this study after providing informed consent. All participants were divided into either a sleep bruxism group (n = 21) or a control group (n = 14), based on the following clinical diagnostic criteria: (1) reports of tooth‐grinding sounds for at least two nights a week during the preceding 6 months by their sleep partner; (2) presence of tooth attrition with exposed dentin; (3) reports of morning masticatory muscle fatigue or tenderness; and (4) presence of masseter muscle hypertrophy. Video‐polysomnography was performed in the sleep laboratory for two nights. Sleep bruxism episodes were measured using masseter electromyography, visually inspected and then categorized into phasic or tonic episodes. Phasic episodes were categorized further into episodes with or without grinding sounds as evaluated by audio signals. Sleep bruxism subjects with reported grinding sounds had a significantly higher total number of phasic episodes with grinding sounds than subjects without reported grinding sounds or controls (Kruskal–Wallis/Steel–Dwass tests; P < 0.05). Similarly, sleep bruxism subjects with tooth attrition exhibited significantly longer phasic burst durations than those without or controls (Kruskal–Wallis/Steel–Dwass tests; P < 0.05). Furthermore, sleep bruxism subjects with morning masticatory muscle fatigue or tenderness exhibited significantly longer tonic burst durations than those without or controls (Kruskal–Wallis/Steel–Dwass tests; P < 0.05). These results suggest that each clinical sign and symptom of sleep bruxism represents different aspects of jaw motor activity during sleep.
From embryos to larvae: seven‐month‐long paternal care by male Japanese giant salamander
Authors: Takahashi M. K. , Okada S. , Fukuda Y.
Published: December 2016

Parental care is remarkably diverse in its modes both within and across taxa. Within amphibians, various pre‐ and post‐hatching care behaviours have been described in frogs. In contrast, the current knowledge about salamander parental care is largely limited to pre‐hatching attendance by females. In particular, post‐hatching parental care by male salamanders have never been described and analysed in detail. A recent study revealed various modes of pre‐hatching care provided by male Japanese giant salamanders (Andrias japonicus). Their hatched larvae are known to stay in the nest with the father (i.e. den master) for several months before dispersal, which led to the hypothesis that den masters continue providing care for hatchlings. To test this hypothesis, we videotaped and analysed post‐hatching behaviours of two male A. japonicus that remained in the nests with hatchlings in situ. We also developed and tested several predictions regarding the post‐hatching care behaviours in comparison to the pre‐hatching behaviours. While one male abandoned the nest, the other male remained in the nest and provided care until the larvae dispersed in the following spring. The comparative analyses on three parental care behaviours (tail fanning, agitating/checking and hygienic filial cannibalism) between pre‐ and post‐hatching care suggest their flexible and condition‐dependent nature. Furthermore, the comparison in larval mortality and potential predators between the attended and abandoned nest revealed the crucial role of a den master in improving offspring survivorship. Our observations also disclosed the possibility of leech infection posing a serious threat to larval giant salamanders. The life‐history traits associated with the evolution of such prolonged post‐hatching paternal care in salamanders are fully aquatic life cycle, external fertilization and stream habitat. The rare combination of these traits is unique to the family Cryptobranchidae which consists of the three imperiled and secretive giant salamanders.
Genetic effects of landscape, habitat preference and demography on three co‐occurring turtle species
Authors: Reid Brendan N. , Mladenoff David J. , Peery M. Zachariah
Published: December 2016

Expanding the scope of landscape genetics beyond the level of single species can help to reveal how species traits influence responses to environmental change. Multispecies studies are particularly valuable in highly threatened taxa, such as turtles, in which the impacts of anthropogenic change are strongly influenced by interspecific differences in life history strategies, habitat preferences and mobility. We sampled approximately 1500 individuals of three co‐occurring turtle species across a gradient of habitat change (including varying loss of wetlands and agricultural conversion of upland habitats) in the Midwestern USA. We used genetic clustering and multiple regression methods to identify associations between genetic structure and permanent landscape features, past landscape composition and landscape change in each species. Two aquatic generalists (the painted turtle, Chrysemys picta, and the snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina) both exhibited population genetic structure consistent with isolation by distance, modulated by aquatic landscape features. Genetic divergence for the more terrestrial Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), on the other hand, was not strongly associated with geographic distance or aquatic features, and Bayesian clustering analysis indicated that many Emydoidea populations were genetically isolated. Despite long generation times, all three species exhibited associations between genetic structure and postsettlement habitat change, indicating that long generation times may not be sufficient to delay genetic drift resulting from recent habitat fragmentation. The concordances in genetic structure observed between aquatic species, as well as isolation in the endangered, long‐lived Emydoidea, reinforce the need to consider both landscape composition and demographic factors in assessing differential responses to habitat change in co‐occurring species.
Fifteen years of quantitative trait loci studies in fish: challenges and future directions
Authors: Ashton David T. , Ritchie Peter A. , Wellenreuther Maren
Published: December 2016

Understanding the genetic basis of phenotypic variation is a major challenge in biology. Here, we systematically evaluate 146 quantitative trait loci (QTL) studies on teleost fish over the last 15 years to investigate (i) temporal trends and (ii) factors affecting QTL detection and fine‐mapping. The number of fish QTL studies per year increased over the review period and identified a cumulative number of 3632 putative QTLs. Most studies used linkage‐based mapping approaches and were conducted on nonmodel species with limited genomic resources. A gradual and moderate increase in the size of the mapping population and a sharp increase in marker density from 2011 onwards were observed; however, the number of QTLs and variance explained by QTLs changed only minimally over the review period. Based on these findings, we discuss the causative factors and outline how larger sample sizes, phenomics, comparative genomics, epigenetics and software development could improve both the quantity and quality of QTLs in future genotype–phenotype studies. Given that the technical limitations on DNA sequencing have mostly been overcome in recent years, a renewed focus on these and other study design factors will likely lead to significant improvements in QTL studies in the future.
Major host transitions are modulated through transcriptome‐wide reprogramming events in Schistocephalus solidus, a threespine stickleback parasite
Authors: Hébert François Olivier , Grambauer Stephan , Barber Iain , Landry Christian R. , Aubin‐Horth Nadia
Published: December 2016

Parasites with complex life cycles have developed numerous phenotypic strategies, closely associated with developmental events, to enable the exploitation of different ecological niches and facilitate transmission between hosts. How these environmental shifts are regulated from a metabolic and physiological standpoint, however, still remain to be fully elucidated. We examined the transcriptomic response of Schistocephalus solidus, a trophically transmitted parasite with a complex life cycle, over the course of its development in an intermediate host, the threespine stickleback, and the final avian host. Results from our differential gene expression analysis show major reprogramming events among developmental stages. The final host stage is characterized by a strong activation of reproductive pathways and redox homoeostasis. The attainment of infectivity in the fish intermediate host—which precedes sexual maturation in the final host and is associated with host behaviour changes—is marked by transcription of genes involved in neural pathways and sensory perception. Our results suggest that un‐annotated and S. solidus‐specific genes could play a determinant role in host–parasite molecular interactions required to complete the parasite's life cycle. Our results permit future comparative analyses to help disentangle species‐specific patterns of infection from conserved mechanisms, ultimately leading to a better understanding of the molecular control and evolution of complex life cycles.
Functional relatedness in the Inv/Mxi‐Spa type III secretion system family
Authors: Klein Jessica A. , Dave Biren M. , Raphenya Amogelang R. , McArthur Andrew G. , Knodler Leigh A.
Published: December 2016

Type III Secretion Systems (T3SSs) are structurally conserved nanomachines that span the inner and outer bacterial membranes, and via a protruding needle complex contact host cell membranes and deliver type III effector proteins. T3SS are phylogenetically divided into several families based on structural basal body components. Here we have studied the evolutionary and functional conservation of four T3SS proteins from the Inv/Mxi‐Spa family: a cytosolic chaperone, two hydrophobic translocators that form a plasma membrane‐integral pore, and the hydrophilic ‘tip complex’ translocator that connects the T3SS needle to the translocon pore. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium), a common cause of food‐borne gastroenteritis, possesses two T3SSs, one belonging to the Inv/Mxi‐Spa family. We used invasion‐deficient S. Typhimurium mutants as surrogates for expression of translocator orthologs identified from an extensive phylogenetic analysis, and type III effector translocation and host cell invasion as a readout for complementation efficiency, and identified several Inv/Mxi‐Spa orthologs that can functionally substitute for the S. Typhimurium chaperone and translocator proteins. Functional complementation correlates with amino acid sequence identity between orthologs, but varies considerably between the four proteins. This is the first in‐depth survey of the functional interchangeability of Inv/Mxi‐Spa T3SS proteins acting directly at the host‐pathogen interface.
Collagen‐like proteins of pathogenic streptococci
Authors: Lukomski Slawomir , Bachert Beth A. , Squeglia Flavia , Berisio Rita
Published: December 2016

The collagen domain, which is defined by the presence of the Gly‐X‐Y triplet repeats, is amongst the most versatile and widespread known structures found in proteins from organisms representing all three domains of life. The streptococcal collagen‐like (Scl) proteins are widely present in pathogenic streptococci, including Streptococcus pyogenes, S. agalactiae, S. pneumoniae, and S. equi. Experiments and bioinformatic analyses support the hypothesis that all Scl proteins are homotrimeric and cell wall‐anchored. These proteins contain the rod‐shaped collagenous domain proximal to cell surface, as well as a variety of outermost non‐collagenous domains that generally lack predicted functions but can be grouped into one of six clusters based on sequence similarity. The well‐characterized Scl1 proteins of S. pyogenes show a dichotomous switch in ligand binding between human tissue and blood environments. In tissue, Scl1 adhesin specifically recognizes the wound microenvironment, promotes adhesion and biofilm formation, decreases bacterial killing by neutrophil extracellular traps, and modulates S. pyogenes virulence. In blood, ligands include components of complement and coagulation‐fibrinolytic systems, as well as plasma lipoproteins. In all, the Scl proteins signify a large family of structurally related surface proteins, which contribute to the ability of streptococci to colonize and cause diseases in humans and animals.
Characterization of silencing suppressor p24 of Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 2
Authors: Li Mingjun , Zhang Jiao , Feng Ming , Wang Xianyou , Luo Chen , Wang Qi , Cheng Yuqin
Published: December 2016

Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 2 (GLRaV‐2) p24 has been reported to be an RNA silencing suppressor (RSS). However, the mechanisms underlying p24's suppression of RNA silencing are unknown. Using Agrobacterium infiltration‐mediated RNA silencing assays, we showed that GLRaV‐2 p24 is a strong RSS triggered by positive‐sense green fluorescent protein (GFP) RNA, and that silencing suppression by p24 effectively blocks the accumulation of small interfering RNAs. Deletion analyses showed that the region of amino acids 1–188, which contains all predicted α‐helices and β‐strands, is required for the RSS activity of p24. Hydrophobic residues I35/F38/V85/V89/W149 and V162/L169/L170, previously shown to be critical for p24 self‐interaction, are also crucial for silencing suppression, and western blotting results suggested that a lack of self‐interaction ability results in decreased p24 accumulation in plants. The mutants showed greatly weakened or a lack of RSS activity. Substitution with two basic residues at positions 2 or 86, putatively involved in RNA binding, totally abolished the RSS activity of p24, suggesting that p24 uses an RNA‐binding strategy to suppress RNA silencing. Our results also showed that W54 in the WG/GW‐like motif (W54/G55) is crucial for the RSS activity of p24, whereas p24 does not physically interact with AGO1 of Nicotiana benthamiana. Furthermore, p24 did not promote AGO1 degradation, but significantly up‐regulated AGO1 mRNA expression, and this effect was correlated with the RSS activity of p24, indicating that p24 may interfere with microRNA‐directed processes. The presented results contribute to our understanding of viral suppression of RNA silencing and the molecular mechanisms underlying GLRaV‐2 infection.
The enemy within: phloem‐limited pathogens
Authors: Bendix Claire , Lewis Jennifer D.
Published: December 2016

The growing impact of phloem‐limited pathogens on high‐value crops has led to a renewed interest in understanding how they cause disease. Although these pathogens cause substantial crop losses, many are poorly characterized. In this review, we present examples of phloem‐limited pathogens that include intracellular bacteria with and without cell walls, and viruses. Phloem‐limited pathogens have small genomes and lack many genes required for core metabolic processes, which is, in part, an adaptation to the unique phloem environment. For each pathogen class, we present multiple case studies to highlight aspects of disease caused by phloem‐limited pathogens. The pathogens presented include Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (citrus greening), Arsenophonus bacteria, Serratia marcescens (cucurbit yellow vine disease), Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris (Aster Yellows Witches’ Broom), Spiroplasma kunkelii, Potato leafroll virus and Citrus tristeza virus. We focus on commonalities in the virulence strategies of these pathogens, and aim to stimulate new discussions in the hope that widely applicable disease management strategies can be found.
Dischidia kerrii sp. nov. (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) from northeastern Thailand
Authors: Kidyoo Manit , Suddee Somran
Published: December 2016

Dischidia kerrii is presented as a new species from northeastern Thailand. This newly discovered species is thoroughly described, discussed and illustrated. A comparison is made with the putative closely related species D. acuminata. They can be distinguished by differences in corolla lobes and staminal corona lobes.
Evolution of bird genomes—a transposon's‐eye view
Authors: Kapusta Aurélie , Suh Alexander
Published: December 2016

Birds, the most species‐rich monophyletic group of land vertebrates, have been subject to some of the most intense sequencing efforts to date, making them an ideal case study for recent developments in genomics research. Here, we review how our understanding of bird genomes has changed with the recent sequencing of more than 75 species from all major avian taxa. We illuminate avian genome evolution from a previously neglected perspective: their repetitive genomic parasites, transposable elements (TEs) and endogenous viral elements (EVEs). We show that (1) birds are unique among vertebrates in terms of their genome organization; (2) information about the diversity of avian TEs and EVEs is changing rapidly; (3) flying birds have smaller genomes yet more TEs than flightless birds; (4) current second‐generation genome assemblies fail to capture the variation in avian chromosome number and genome size determined with cytogenetics; (5) the genomic microcosm of bird–TE “arms races” has yet to be explored; and (6) upcoming third‐generation genome assemblies suggest that birds exhibit stability in gene‐rich regions and instability in TE‐rich regions. We emphasize that integration of cytogenetics and single‐molecule technologies with repeat‐resolved genome assemblies is essential for understanding the evolution of (bird) genomes.
Investigating education, migration and development – Moving triangles in the Pacific
Authors: Gamlen Alan , Murray Warwick E. , Overton John
Published: December 2016

Is it possible that education in the Global South leads to emigration and is therefore detrimental to development prospects? For the Pacific Islands region, this issue is particularly pertinent, given the high rates of migration and the strong emphasis placed on education as a basis for development. Although our knowledge of the bilateral relations between, respectively, education and development, education and migration, and migration and development have advanced, we know very little of the complex interplay between the three. In this article, we suggest a new approach to the trilateral relationship among education, migration and development in the Pacific Islands which may have implications beyond that region.
Complications with the MICRA TPS Pacemaker System: Persistent Complete Heart Block and Late Capture Failure
Authors: HOLM NIELS , MÜLLER ANDREAS , ZBINDEN RAINER
Published: December 2016

A Medtronic MICRA transcatheter pacing system (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) was implanted in an 86‐year‐old patient with sick sinus syndrome and left bundle branch block after transfemoral aortic valve implantation. During implantation she developed a persistent complete heart block due to manipulation with the large‐bore delivery catheter. Two weeks later, acute pacemaker dysfunction occurred due to massive increase of pacing threshold and impedance without obvious pacemaker dislocation or myocardial perforation. Recurrent capture failure was seen with pacing output set at 5 V/1.0 ms. Hence, microdislocation or fixation of the tines in the right ventricular trabeculae has to be assumed.
Protective effects of Aloe sterols against UVB‐induced photoaging in hairless mice
Authors: Misawa Eriko , Tanaka Miyuki , Saito Marie , Nabeshima Kazumi , Yao Ruiqing , Yamauchi Kouji , Abe Fumiaki , Yamamoto Yuki , Furukawa Fukumi
Published: December 2016

Background

Aloe vera is a traditional medical plant whose gel has been widely used in skin care. Previously, we have identified Aloe sterols from Aloe vera as active ingredients. This study investigated the protective effects of Aloe sterols without polysaccharides, against ultraviolet B (UVB)‐induced skin photoaging in mice using Aloe vera gel extract (AVGE) obtained by supercritical fluid extraction.

Methods

Aloe vera gel extract was supplemented in the diet (12 or 120 ppm), and HR‐1 hairless mice were exposed to UVB irradiation for 7 weeks. Skin measurements and histological and analytical studies were performed.

Results

Repeated UVB irradiation induced rough wrinkling of skin with water content reduction and hyperkeratosis. AVGE administration resulted in the significant improvement of UVB‐induced skin dryness, epidermal thickness, and wrinkle formation. The AVGE group also suppressed the degenerations of dermal collagen fibers and the appearance of cutaneous apoptosis cells induced by UVB. Furthermore, AVGE administration reduced the excess elevation of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β and TNF‐α) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐2, MMP‐9, MMP‐12, and MMP‐13) in UVB‐exposed skin.

Conclusion

The dietary ingestion of Aloe sterols protected against chronic UVB damage in mouse skin, and our results suggest that Aloe sterols may prevent skin photoaging through the anti‐inflammation and MMP regulation.
Modulation of CycD3;1‐CDK complexes by phytohormones and sucrose during maize germination
Authors: Garza‐Aguilar Sara M. , Lara‐Núñez Aurora , García‐Ramírez Elpidio , Vázquez‐Ramos Jorge M.
Published: December 2016

Maize CycD3;1 associates to CDKA or CDKB1;1 proteins during germination and the complexes formed develop kinase activity. These complexes appear to vary in size as germination proceeds, suggesting association to different sets of proteins. CycD3;1 and associated CDK proteins respond to phytohormones and sucrose. Results revealed a reduction in the CycD3;1 protein amount along germination in the presence of indoleacetic acid (IAA) or abscisic acid (ABA), although in the latter protein levels recover at the end of germination. While the levels of CDKA increase with IAA, they decrease with ABA. Both phytohormones, IAA and ABA, increase levels of CDKB1;1 only during the early germination times. CycD3;1 associated kinase activity is only reduced by both phytohormones towards the end of the germination period. On the other hand, lack of sucrose in the imbibition medium strongly reduces CycD3;1 protein levels without affecting the levels of neither CDKA nor CDKB1;1. The corresponding CycD3;1 associated kinase activity is also severely decreased. The presence of sucrose in the medium appears to stabilize the CycD3;1 protein levels.
Effacing the music in edmund waller's poems
Authors: Ward Thomas
Published: December 2016

Returning to London from exile in 1652, Edmund Waller found that his poems had been circulating, without his knowledge or permission, in at least two separate printed editions; within the next five years, six of his lyrics would appear as musical settings in printed collections of songs by the composer Henry Lawes. This article takes at face value Waller's own somewhat surprising expression of relief to discover that his texts had been corrupted by ‘mistaking Printer’ and ‘ill Reciter’ alike. Through close readings of ‘To Mr. Henry Lawes, who had then newly set a song of mine in the year 1635’ and ‘To a lady singing a song of his own composing’, I argue that poems ostensibly about song also articulate anxieties about the work of art in the age of (early) mechanical reproduction: not that the author might become alienated from his own words through the unpredictable vicissitudes of transmission and circulation, but that his text could become estranged, paradoxically, through overly precise replication. Waller's poems explore how perfect, echoic repetition of the poetic text, whether through vocal performance or printed book, presented a possible threat to a sense of authorial voice.
Compatibility of root growth and tuber production of potato cultivars with dynamic and static water‐saving irrigation managements
Authors: Ahmadi S. H. , Agharezaee M. , Kamgar‐Haghighi A. A. , Sepaskhah A. R.
Published: December 2016

The important root characteristics of root length density (RLD) and root mass density (RMD) generally differ among irrigation managements and potato cultivars. The objective of this study was to investigate the RLD and RMD variations and their functional relationships with gross potato tuber yield for two commercial potato cultivars, Agria and Sante, under different irrigation strategies. Full irrigation and water‐saving irrigation strategies, deficit and partial root drying irrigations, were applied statically (S) and dynamically (D) based on daily crop evapotranspiration. Results showed that SPRD had significantly greater RLD (3.64 cm/cm3) and RMD (132.7 μg/cm3) than other irrigation treatments. Between the potato cultivars, Agria had significantly larger values of RLD (3.50 cm/cm3) and RMD (138.7 μg/cm3) than Sante. The functional relationship between the root growth characteristics and tuber yield showed that under water‐saving irrigations, Agria increased root mass at the expense of gross tuber yield but Sante increased root mass to maintain larger gross tuber yields. However, Agria produced more roots and gross tuber yield than Sante, and it is concluded that Agria is a more drought‐tolerant potato cultivar, which is recommended for tuber production in regions where water might be scarce. It was shown that larger root production in potatoes was associated with improved tolerance to water stress.
Effect of botulinum toxin A on vasoconstriction and sympathetic neurotransmitters in a murine random pattern skin flap model
Authors: Roh Tai Suk , Jung Bok Ki , Yun Insik , Lew Dae Hyun , Kim Young Seok
Published: December 2016

Blood supply is the most important factor determining the survival of a skin flap. Botulinum toxin‐A (Botox‐A) is used as pharmacologic agent not only for aesthetic purposes, but also for its vasomotor actions. This study was conducted to establish whether local application of Botox‐A increased survival of random pattern skin flaps in rats by changing the expression of neurotransmitters. Forty adult Sprague–Dawley rats with a caudally‐based random pattern skin flap were divided into two groups: Botox‐A group and saline group. Surviving flap area and cutaneous blood flow in the flap were evaluated on postoperative days 3 and 7. After injection of Botox‐A, changes in vessels were analyzed using immunohistochemical staining. Levels of norepinephrine, neuropeptide‐Y, nitric oxide, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase were analyzed quantitatively by high performance liquid chromatography, Western blot, and colorimetric assay. The survived area in the Botox‐A group was significantly higher than that in the control group on postoperative days 3 and 7. Blood flow in the Botox‐A group was significantly high in the proximal and middle areas immediately after the operation. The number of CD31‐positive vessels in the Botox‐A group was significant greater than that in the control group. Norepinephrine level in the Botox‐A group decreased significantly immediately after flap elevation and at postoperative day 3. There were no significant differences in neuropeptide‐Y level between the two groups. Nitric oxide level did not change significantly in either group despite the increase in endothelial nitric oxide synthase immediately after flap elevation and at 3 days postoperatively. In conclusion, Botox‐A increased vascular blood flow and viable flap area in rats by reducing norepinephrine level. In contrast, neuropeptide‐Y, another vasoconstrictor, was not affected by Botox‐A. Nitric oxide, a vasodilator, was also not affected by Botox‐A, despite the significant increase in endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression in the flaps.
Bicarbonate‐rich fluid secretion predicted by a computational model of guinea‐pig pancreatic duct epithelium
Authors: Yamaguchi Makoto , Steward Martin C. , Smallbone Kieran , Sohma Yoshiro , Yamamoto Akiko , Ko Shigeru B. H. , Kondo Takaharu , Ishiguro Hiroshi
Published: December 2016

Key points

The ductal system of the pancreas secretes large volumes of alkaline fluid containing HCO3− concentrations as high as 140 mm during hormonal stimulation.

A computational model has been constructed to explore the underlying ion transport mechanisms. Parameters were estimated by fitting the model to experimental data from guinea‐pig pancreatic ducts.

The model was readily able to secrete 140 mm HCO3−. Its capacity to do so was not dependent upon special properties of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) anion channels and solute carrier family 26 member A6 (SLC26A6) anion exchangers.

We conclude that the main requirement for secreting high HCO3− concentrations is to minimize the secretion of Cl− ions.

These findings help to clarify the mechanism responsible for pancreatic HCO3− secretion, a vital process that prevents the formation of protein plugs and viscous mucus in the ducts, which could otherwise lead to pancreatic disease.

A computational model of guinea‐pig pancreatic duct epithelium was developed to determine the transport mechanism by which HCO3− ions are secreted at concentrations in excess of 140 mm. Parameters defining the contributions of the individual ion channels and transporters were estimated by least‐squares fitting of the model predictions to experimental data obtained from isolated ducts and intact pancreas under a range of experimental conditions. The effects of cAMP‐stimulated secretion were well replicated by increasing the activities of the basolateral Na+‐HCO3− cotransporter (NBC1) and apical Cl−/HCO3− exchanger (solute carrier family 26 member A6; SLC26A6), increasing the basolateral K+ permeability and apical Cl− and HCO3− permeabilities (CFTR), and reducing the activity of the basolateral Cl−/HCO3− exchanger (anion exchanger 2; AE2). Under these conditions, the model secreted ∼140 mm HCO3− at a rate of ∼3 nl min−1 mm−2, which is consistent with experimental observations. Alternative 1:2 and 1:1 stoichiometries for Cl−/HCO3− exchange via SLC26A6 at the apical membrane were able to support a HCO3−‐rich secretion. Raising the HCO3−/Cl− permeability ratio of CFTR from 0.4 to 1.0 had little impact upon either the secreted HCO3− concentration or the volume flow. However, modelling showed that a reduction in basolateral AE2 activity by ∼80% was essential in minimizing the intracellular Cl− concentration following cAMP stimulation and thereby maximizing the secreted HCO3− concentration. The addition of a basolateral Na+‐K+‐2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC1), assumed to be present in rat and mouse ducts, raised intracellular Cl− and resulted in a lower secreted HCO3− concentration, as is characteristic of those species. We conclude therefore that minimizing the driving force for Cl− secretion is the main requirement for secreting 140 mm HCO3−.