bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure, phase compositions, and microwave dielectric properties of malayaite‐type Ca1−xSrxSnSiO5 ceramics
Authors: Du Kang , Fan Jun , Zou Zheng‐Yu , Song Xiao‐Qiang , Lu Wen‐Zhong , Lei Wen
Published: July 2020

Low‐permittivity Ca1−xSrxSnSiO5 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.45) microwave dielectric ceramics were prepared via traditional state‐reaction at 1400°C‐1450°C for 5 hours. Moreover the microwave dielectric properties of SnO2 ceramic were obtained for the first time. SnO2 ceramic was difficult to densify, and SnO2 ceramic (ρrel = 65.1%) that was sintered at 1525°C exhibited the optimal microwave dielectric properties of εr = 5.27, Q × f = 89 300 GHz (at 14.5 GHz), and τf = −26.7 ppm/°C. For Ca1−xSrxSnSiO5 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) ceramics, Sr2+ could be dissolved in the Ca2+ site of Ca1−xSrxSnSiO5 to form a single phase, and the partial substitution of Ca2+ by Sr2+ could improve the microwave dielectric properties of CaSnSiO5 ceramic. Secondary phases (SnO2 and SrSiO3) appeared at 0.2 ≤ x ≤ 0.45 and could adjust the abnormally positive τf value of CaSnSiO5 ceramic. The highest Q × f value (60 100 GHz at 10.4 GHz) and optimal microwave dielectric properties (εr = 9.42, Q × f = 47 500 GHz at 12.4 GHz, and τf = −1.2 ppm/°C) of Ca1−xSrxSnSiO5 ceramics were obtained at x = 0.05 and 0.45, respectively.
High‐pressure torsion of SiO2 quartz sand: Phase transformation, optical properties, and significance in geology
Authors: Wang Qing , Edalati Kaveh , Fujita Ikuro , Watanabe Motonori , Ishihara Tatsumi , Horita Zenji
Published: July 2020

Phase transformation and optical properties of silica (silicon dioxide, SiO2) quartz sand under high pressure/temperature has been of interest in geology and optical physics for many years. In this study, besides high pressure/temperature, high plastic strain is simultaneously applied to the quartz sand by high‐pressure torsion (HPT) processing. The material shows oxygen vacancy formation and transformation to (a) a denser nanocrystalline quartz phase, (b) a high‐temperature amorphous phase and (c) a high‐pressure coesite phase. These structural and microstructural changes lead to light absorbance, electron spin resonance, photoluminscence and photocatalytic activity, while these changes are enhanced by increasing strain. This study introduces a possible pressure‐temperature‐strain‐based mechanism for the formation of naturally observed vacancies and coesite phase in SiO2‐based minerals and sands.
Effect of Children ‐ Generated Illustrations in text on Pupils’ Achievement in Phonics
Authors: Ibenegbu Christopher Ifeanyichukwu , Ubah Ritadoris Educhi , Okwo Fred Amunabo
Published: July 2020

The study investigated the effects of children‐generated illustrations and gender on pupils’ achievement in phonics in the Udenu Local Government Area of Nigeria. The study employed a non‐equivalent quasi‐experimental 2 x 2 factorial research design. Some 172 primary two pupils from 4 schools were used for the study. The English Achievement Test (EAT) was used to collect data. Three hypotheses were tested. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The results showed that there was a significant main effect for illustration on pupils’ achievement in phonics F(1,167) = 24.596, p<.000; there was non‐significant main effect of gender on pupils’ achievement in phonics F (1,167) = 0.291, p <.082; and there was non‐significant interaction effect of illustration and gender on pupils’ achievement in phonics F (1,167) = .253, p <.615. It was recommended that the Ministries of Education should ensure that textbook authors incorporate children‐generated illustrations in the instructional materials for pupils.
Neurocognitive markers of late‐onset ADHD: a 6‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Ilbegi Shahrzad , Buitelaar Jan K. , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Hartman Catharina A. , Franke Barbara , Faraone Stephen V. , Oosterlaan Jaap , Luman Marjolein , van Lieshout Marloes , Rommelse Nanda N.J.
Published: July 2020

Background

There is an increased interest in ‘late‐onset’ attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), referring to the onset of clinically significant ADHD symptoms after the age of 12 years. This study aimed to examine whether unaffected siblings with late‐onset ADHD could be differentiated from stable unaffected siblings by their neurocognitive functioning in childhood.

Methods

We report findings from a 6‐year prospective, longitudinal study of the Dutch part of the International Multicenter ADHD Genetics (IMAGE) study, including individuals with childhood‐onset (persistent) ADHD (n = 193), their siblings with late‐onset ADHD (n = 34), their stable unaffected siblings (n = 111) and healthy controls (n = 186). At study entry (mean age: 11.3) and follow‐up (mean age: 17.01), participants were assessed for ADHD by structured psychiatric interviews and multi‐informant questionnaires. Several neurocognitive functions were assessed at baseline and after 6 years, including time reproduction, timing variability (reaction time variability and time production variability), reaction time speed, motor control and working memory; intelligence was taken as a measure of overall neurocognitive functioning.

Results

Siblings with late‐onset ADHD were similar to individuals with childhood‐onset ADHD in showing longer reaction times and/or higher error rates on all neurocognitive measures at baseline and follow‐up, when compared to healthy controls. They differed from stable unaffected siblings (who were similar to healthy controls) by greater reaction time variability and timing production variability at baseline. No significant group by time interaction was found for any of the tasks.

Conclusions

For unaffected siblings of individuals with ADHD, reaction time variability and timing production variability may serve as neurocognitive marker for late‐onset ADHD.
Investigating attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder traits in the general population: What happens in adult life?
Authors: Riglin Lucy , Leppert Beate , Langley Kate , Thapar Ajay K. , O'Donovan Michael C. , Davey Smith George , Stergiakouli Evie , Tilling Kate , Thapar Anita
Published: July 2020

Background

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are generally considered early‐onset disorders so most research has therefore tended to focus on children. Differences between ADHD/ASD in adult life and childhood have been noted, but few population‐based studies have examined them in adulthood. Furthermore, the interpretation of findings is hampered by changes in measure and from parent report to self‐report.

Method

We examined continuous/trait measures of parent‐ and self‐rated ADHD and ASD in adulthood (age 25 years) in a UK prospective longitudinal sample ALPSAC (the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children), using many of the same measures that parents reported on in childhood (N = 6,064). Our aim was to investigate these traits in this population for mean‐level sex differences, overlaps with other cognitive, learning and communication problems and their associations with polygenic risk scores (PRS) for neuropsychiatric disorders (ADHD, ASD, schizophrenia, depression and anxiety).

Results

ADHD and ASD traits in adulthood, as in childhood, showed associations with childhood cognitive, learning and communication problems and adult communication/language measures, although less so for self‐ratings than parent‐ratings. Males had higher ADHD and ASD trait levels, but this was not as marked as in childhood. In adulthood, ADHD (both parent‐ and self‐rated) and ASD (parent‐rated) symptoms showed associations with ADHD PRS; self‐reported ADHD also showed association with depression PRS, whereas self‐reported ASD did not show strong PRS associations.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that in young adults, ADHD and ASD symptoms have similar characteristics as they do in childhood. Associations with other cognitive, learning and communication problems, and ADHD PRS were somewhat less pronounced for self‐reported adult ADHD and ASD symptoms, suggesting that even at age 25, parent reports, where available, could be clinically useful.
Role of O‐linked N‐acetylglucosamine in the homeostasis of metabolic organs, and its potential links with diabetes and its complications
Authors: Morino Katsutaro , Maegawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2020

Recent studies using genetically manipulated mouse models have shown the pivotal role of O‐linked N‐acetylglucosamine modification (O‐GlcNAcylation) in the metabolism of multiple organs. The molecular mechanism involves the sensing of glucose flux by the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway, which leads to the adjustment of cellular metabolism to protect against changes in the environment of each organ through O‐GlcNAcylation. More recently, not only glucose, but also fluxes of amino acids and fatty acids have been reported to induce O‐GlcNAcylation, affecting multiple cellular processes. In this review, we discuss how O‐GlcNAcylation maintains homeostasis in organs that are affected by diabetes mellitus: skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, liver and pancreatic β‐cells. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of O‐GlcNAcylation in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. By elucidating the molecular mechanisms whereby cellular homeostasis is maintained, despite changes in metabolic flux, these studies might provide new targets for the treatment and prevention of diabetes and its complications.
Revised Taxonomy and Expanded Biodiversity of the Phytomyxea (Rhizaria, Endomyxa)
Authors: Hittorf Michaela , Letsch‐Praxmarer Susanne , Windegger Alexandra , Bass David , Kirchmair Martin , Neuhauser Sigrid
Published: July 2020

Phytomyxea (phytomyxids) is a group of obligate biotrophic pathogens belonging to the Rhizaria. Some phytomyxids are well studied and include known plant pathogens such as Plasmodiophora brassicae, the causal agent of clubroot disease. Despite this economic importance, the taxonomy and biodiversity of this group are largely cryptic, with many species described in the premolecular area. Some of these species were key for establishing the morphotaxonomic concepts that define most genera to this day, but systematic efforts to include and integrate those species into molecular studies are still lacking. The aim of this study was to expand our understanding of phytomyxid biodiversity in terrestrial environments. Thirty‐eight environmental samples from habitats in which novel and known diversity of Phytomyxea was expected were analysed. We were able to generate 18S rRNA sequences from Ligniera verrucosa, a species which is well defined based on ultrastructure. Phylogenetic analyses of the collected sequences rendered the genera Lignera, Plasmodiophora and Spongospora polyphyletic, and identified two novel and apparently diverse lineages (clade 17, clade 18). Based on these findings and on data from previous studies, we formally establish the new genera Pseudoligniera n. gen. for L. verrucosa,Hillenburgia n. gen. for Spongospora nasturtii and revert Plasmodiophora diplantherae to its original name Ostenfeldiella diplantherae.
Group C Streptococcus dysgalactiae infection in fish
Authors: Maekawa Shun , Wang Yi‐Ting , Yoshida Terutoyo , Wang Pei‐Chi , Chen Shih‐Chu
Published: July 2020

Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae (GCSD) is a Gram‐positive, facultative anaerobic bacterium and mostly non‐β‐haemolytic with Lancefield group C antigen. GCSD infection has been identified in various vertebrates. From 2002 to the present, GCSD infection of fish has been reported to cause severe economic losses in aquaculture farms around the world. Moreover, GCSD isolates from teleosts have been identified in patients with ascending upper limb cellulitis. Therefore, the economic and clinical significance of GCSD has increased in aquaculture, livestock and human health. Many studies have been presented, from the first report of isolated GCSD in fish, to the pathogenesis, characterization, immune responses and vaccine development. In this review, we present the current knowledge of GCSD in teleosts.
Labor Responses, Regulation, and Business Churn
Authors: ALOI MARTA , DIXON HUW , SAVAGAR ANTHONY
Published: July 2020

We develop a model of sluggish firm entry to explain short‐run labor responses to technology shocks. We show that the labor response to technology and its persistence depend on the degree of returns to labor and the rate of firm entry. Existing empirical results support our theory based on short‐run labor responses across U.S. industries. We derive closed‐form transition paths that show the result occurs because labor adjusts instantaneously while firms are sluggish, and closed‐form eigenvalues show that stricter entry regulation results in slower convergence to steady state. Finally, we show that our theoretical results hold in a quantitative model with capital accumulation and interest rate dynamics.
Glioma cells survival depends both on fatty acid oxidation and on functional carnitine transport by SLC22A5
Authors: Juraszek Barbara , Czarnecka‐Herok Joanna , Nałęcz Katarzyna A.
Published: July 2020

Gliomas are the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, but current treatment for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is insufficient. Even though glucose is the primary energetic substrate of glioma cells, they are capable of using fatty acids to generate energy. Fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in mitochondria requires L‐carnitine for the formation of acylcarnitines by carnitine palmitoylotransferase 1 (CPT1) and further transport of acyl carnitine esters to mitochondrial matrix. Carnitine can be delivered to the cell by an organic cation/carnitine transporter—SLC22A5/OCTN2. In this study, we show that SLC22A5 is up‐regulated in glioma cells and that they vary in the amount of SLC22A5 in the plasma membrane. Research on glioma cells (lines U87MG, LN229, T98G) with various expression levels of SLC22A5 demonstrated a correlation between the FAO rate, the level of the transporter, and the carnitine transport. Inhibition of carnitine transport by chemotherapeutics, such as vinorelbine and vincristine, led to inhibition of FAO, which was further intensified by etomoxir—a CPT1 inhibitor. This led to reduced viability and increased apoptosis in glioma cells. Modulation of SLC22A5 level by either silencing or up‐regulation of SLC22A5 also affected glioma cell survival in a FAO‐dependent way. These observations suggest that the survival of glioma cells is heavily reliant on both FAO and SLC22A5 activity, as well as that CPT1 and SLC22A5 might be possible drug targets.

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Botulinum toxin type A as a novel method of preventing cleft lip scar hypertrophy—A literature review
Authors: Bartkowska Patrycja , Roszak Justyna , Ostrowski Hubert , Komisarek Oskar
Published: July 2020

Background

Cleft lip is a congenital development defect. Primary cleft lip repair leads to cleft scar formation. The resulting scar often undergoes hypertrophy, which negatively affects the facial esthetics, function, and patient's mental health. One of the methods used in scar therapy described in recent years is botulinum toxin injections The aim of this work is to present current knowledge about the impact of botulinum toxin A on cleft lip scar appearance and its effect on scar hypertrophy.

Methods

The literature search was conducted in the English language via the PubMed and Google Scholar databases.

Results

The results show injections seem to be a promising method in cleft lip scar management. However, future studies, especially randomized controlled trials, are necessary to assess the effect of BoNT‐A compared with placebo and to determine the optimal dosages and injection schemes for BoNT‐A treatment in cleft lip patients.
Deoxycholic acid in the submental fat reduction: A review of properties, adverse effects, and complications
Authors: Farina Gabriela Alacarini , Cherubini Karen , de Figueiredo Maria Antonia Zancanaro , Salum Fernanda Gonçalves
Published: July 2020

Background

Deoxycholic acid (DCA) was developed by the pharmaceutical industry for aesthetical use in submental fat reduction. It represents the first lipolytic substance approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for fat reduction in that area.

Aims

This study presents an update of properties and the use of DCA, as well as adverse events and possible complications.

Methods

A search in MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane, and Bireme/LILACS databases was performed using the terms: “deoxycholic acid” OR “ATX‐101” AND “injection” NOT “amphotericin” NOT “biliary” NOT “bile.” Experimental studies developed in animals, clinical trials, literature reviews, case reports, and letters to the editor that included the DCA mechanism of action, dose, manner of use, adverse effects, and complications were selected.

Results

The most frequent adverse events are edema, local pain, bruise, and numbness, which usually spontaneously regress. However, complications, including, skin necrosis, nerve injury, alopecia, and vascular events, can occur, demanding complex management without specific protocols.

Conclusion

Although DCA is beneficial for lysis of adipose tissue, clinicians should be aware about the adverse effects and risks involved with the use of this substance. The knowledge of local anatomy, properties, and adverse effects are fundamental to treatment with DCA.
Attributing Problem‐Solving to God, Receiving Social Support, and Stress‐Moderation
Authors: Rainville G. “Chuck” , Krause Neal
Published: July 2020

This research note explores the stress‐moderating effects of attributing a problem‐solving role to God among a nationwide sample of 2,260 Americans. Specifically, the ways in which the perception of “God‐as‐a‐problem‐solver” moderates stress is explored for Americans reporting low and high levels of social support from other people. Within a model that interacts two moderators (i.e., a moderated moderation analysis), two predictions are tested that extend from social support and sense of control frameworks. Consistent with one prediction, viewing God‐as‐a‐problem‐solver had a stress‐buffering effect (i.e., a reduction of the negative impact of life stressors on a depressive symptomology outcome measure) among those receiving low social support. Consistent with a second prediction, viewing God‐as‐a‐problem‐solver served as a stress‐exacerbator among those already receiving high levels of social support. Findings suggest that the optimal count of supportive sets of entities (be it God or other people) is no fewer or no more than one.
Historical charcoal burning and coppicing suppressed beech and increased forest vegetation heterogeneity
Authors: Máliš František , Bobek Přemysl , Hédl Radim , Chudomelová Markéta , Petřík Petr , Ujházy Karol , Ujházyová Mariana , Kopecký Martin
Published: July 2020

Questions

Long‐term legacies of historical human activities in temperate forests are increasingly recognised as an important driver of vegetation diversity and composition. To uncover centuries‐old legacies, novel approaches are, however, needed. Here, we combine anthracology of historical charcoal kilns and long‐term vegetation resurveys. We asked whether the historical coppicing oriented on charcoal production affected tree‐species composition and how the forest understorey vegetation changed after the coppicing was abandoned.

Location

Temperate broadleaved forests in the Slovak Karst National Park, central Europe.

Methods

To explore the historical forest structure and long‐term changes in tree composition, we sampled charcoal remains from 28 historical kilns, identified the burnt tree taxa and estimated the original diameter of the burnt wood. To analyse the vegetation changes over the last four decades, we resurveyed plant composition of 60 quasi‐permanent plots established in 1975.

Results

Historical charcoal burning was associated with coppicing, which decreased Fagus sylvatica dominance and favoured Quercus spp. in the tree layer. Several decades after the abandonment of coppicing, we observed the decline of Quercus spp. and spread of shade‐casting tree species with nutrient‐rich litter. This probably triggered the identified demise of light‐demanding species, the spread of nitrophytes and taxonomic homogenisation of the forest understorey.

Conclusions

The shift from historical coppicing to current high‐forest management was likely a main driver of the observed taxonomic homogenisation and decline of light‐demanding plants, as in other European lowland forests. Long‐term data from charcoal kilns showed, however, that closed‐canopy forests dominated by beech were historically more common and observed changes in vegetation thus represent a natural process. Findings also suggest that coppicing taking place over centuries enhanced diversity of forest understorey vegetation. Our novel approach combining a vegetation resurvey and charcoal kiln anthracology thus uncovered otherwise hidden links between current biological processes and the historical human legacies, with consequent important implications for nature protection and management.
Facultative hemiepiphytism as a recruitment strategy in small‐seeded tree species
Authors: Dawes Thomas N. , Burns Kevin C.
Published: July 2020

Aims

Shade‐tolerant tree species often produce larger seeds with greater energetic resources to cope with light limitation. On the other hand, shade‐intolerant species often produce smaller seeds with greater dispersal potential to colonise lighter, more disturbed areas of forest. We test the hypothesis that small‐seeded species utilise an alternative recruitment strategy in a southern temperate rainforest by establishing epiphytically on the trunks of tree ferns.

Location

Wellington region, North Island of New Zealand.

Methods

To assess whether small‐seeded tree species rely on tree fern epiphytism for recruitment we quantified relative abundances of both epiphytic and terrestrial subpopulations in 14 woody plant species across a range of seed sizes. We used a paired study design where we surveyed all 3,727 woody plants occurring on 322 tree ferns and in matching forest floor plots of equivalent area. Using a linear model, we then assessed the relationship between species’ seed size and their epiphytic tendency (arboreality).

Results

Arboreality scores differed both between species and between life history stages. Seed size predicted arboreality regardless of life history stage, with small‐seeded species more likely to occur arboreally than larger‐seeded ones. However, the effect of seed size decreased predictably in later life history stages. Seed size also predicted arboreality when the model was rerun using subsets of data restricted to common understorey tree ferns.

Conclusion

Interspecific differences in the epiphytic establishment of New Zealand tree species are pronounced, with only smaller‐seeded species able to use this regeneration niche. Small‐seeded species, especially Weinmannia racemosa, appear to be utilising an alternative recruitment strategy by establishing epiphytically on tree fern trunks.
Impaired myosin isoform shift and calcium transients contribute to cellular pathogenesis of rat cirrhotic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Honar Hooman , Liu Hongqun , Zhang Mei L. , Glenn Tamara K. , ter Keurs Henk E. D. J. , Lee Samuel S.
Published: July 2020

Background & Aims

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a recently recognized entity, but detailed cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclarified. We aimed to elucidate the role of myosin heavy chain isoform shifts and their relation to calcium transients in the contractile kinetics of cirrhotic rats.

Methods

Cirrhosis was induced in male Lewis Brown‐Norway rats by bile duct ligation (BDL). Myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform distribution was evaluated by gel electrophoresis. Contractile force, Ca2+ transients and cell shortening were studied at varied frequency and extracellular [Ca2+]. T‐tubular integrity was analysed by power spectrum analysis of images of myocytes stained with di‐8‐ANEPPS.

Results

Compared with sham controls, the phenotypes of cirrhotic rats were as follows: (a) alpha‐myosin heavy chain shifted to beta‐MHC isoform; (b) mild loss of T‐tubular integrity in myocytes; (c) a reduced maximum and rate of rise of the Ca2+ transient (max F/Fo); (d) a reduction in both the rate of rise and fall of contraction; (e) decreased maximal force‐generating capacity; (f) loss of the inotropic effect of increased stimulus frequency; (g) unchanged sensitivity of force development to varied extracellular [Ca2+] and (h) increased spontaneous diastolic sarcomere length fluctuations.

Conclusion

Cardiomyocytes and ventricular trabeculae in a cirrhotic rat model showed features of typical heart failure including systolic and diastolic prolongation, impaired force‐frequency relation and decreased force‐generating capacity. Impaired myosin isoform shift and calcium transients are important contributory mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of the heart failure phenotype seen in cirrhosis.
Climate and phylogenetic history structure morphological and architectural trait variation among fine‐root orders
Authors: McCormack M. Luke , Kaproth Matthew A. , Cavender‐Bares Jeannine , Carlson Eva , Hipp Andrew L. , Han Ying , Kennedy Peter G.
Published: July 2020

Fine roots mediate below‐ground resource acquisition, yet understanding of how fine‐root functional traits vary along environmental gradients, within branching orders and across phylogenetic scales remains limited.

Morphological and architectural fine‐root traits were measured on individual root orders of 20 oak species (genus Quercus) from divergent climates of origin that were harvested after three growing seasons in a glasshouse. These were then compared with similar measurements obtained from a phylogenetically diverse dataset of woody species from the Fine‐Root Ecology Database (FRED).

For the oaks, only precipitation seasonality and growing season moisture availability were correlated to aspects of root diameter and branching. Strong correlations among root diameters and architecture of different branch orders were common, while correlations between diameter and length were weakly negative. By contrast, the FRED dataset showed strong positive correlations between diameter and length and fewer correlations between root diameter and architectural traits.

Our findings suggest that seasonal patterns of water availability are more important drivers of root adaptation in oaks than annual averages in precipitation and temperature. Furthermore, contrasting patterns of trait relationships between the oak and FRED datasets suggest that branching patterns are differentially constrained at narrow vs broad phylogenetic scales.
R2R3 MYB‐dependent auxin signalling regulates trichome formation, and increased trichome density confers spider mite tolerance on tomato
Authors: Yuan Yujin , Xu Xin , Luo Yingqing , Gong Zehao , Hu Xiaowei , Wu Mengbo , Liu Yudong , Yan Fang , Zhang Xiaolan , Zhang Wenfa , Tang Yuwei , Feng Bihong , Li Zhengguo , Jiang Cai‐Zhong , Deng Wei
Published: July 2020

Unicellular and multicellular tomato trichomes function as mechanical and chemical barriers against herbivores. Auxin treatment increased the formation of II, V and VI type trichomes in tomato leaves. The auxin response factor gene SlARF4, which was highly expressed in II, V and VI type trichomes, positively regulated the auxin‐induced formation of II, V and VI type trichomes in the tomato leaves. SlARF4 overexpression plants with high densities of these trichomes exhibited tolerance to spider mites. Two R2R3 MYB genes, SlTHM1 and SlMYB52, were directly targeted and inhibited by SlARF4. SlTHM1 was specifically expressed in II and VI type trichomes and negatively regulated the auxin‐induced formation of II and VI type trichomes in the tomato leaves. SlTHM1 down‐regulation plants with high densities of II and VI type trichomes also showed tolerance to spider mites. SlMYB52 was specifically expressed in V type trichomes and negatively regulated the auxin‐induced formation of V type trichome in the tomato leaves. The regulation of SlARF4 on the formation of II, V and VI type trichomes depended on SlTHM1 and SlMYB52, which directly targeted cyclin gene SlCycB2 and increased its expression. In conclusion, our data indicates that the R2R3 MYB‐dependent auxin signalling pathway regulates the formation of II, V and VI type trichomes in tomato leaves. Our study provides an effective method for improving the tolerance of tomato to spider mites.
High‐resolution temporal dynamic transcriptome landscape reveals a GhCAL‐mediated flowering regulatory pathway in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Cheng Shuaishuai , Chen Pengyun , Su Zhengzheng , Ma Liang , Hao Pengbo , Zhang Jingjing , Ma Qiang , Liu Guoyuan , Liu Ji , Wang Hantao , Wei Hengling , Yu Shuxun
Published: July 2020

The transition from vegetative to reproductive growth is very important for early maturity in cotton. However, the genetic control of this highly dynamic and complex developmental process remains unclear. A high‐resolution tissue‐ and stage‐specific transcriptome profile was generated from six developmental stages using 72 samples of two early‐maturing and two late‐maturing cotton varieties. The results of histological analysis of paraffin sections showed that flower bud differentiation occurred at the third true leaf stage (3TLS) in early‐maturing varieties, but at the fifth true leaf stage (5TLS) in late‐maturing varieties. Using pairwise comparison and weighted gene co‐expression network analysis, 5312 differentially expressed genes were obtained, which were divided into 10 gene co‐expression modules. In the MElightcyan module, 46 candidate genes regulating cotton flower bud differentiation were identified and expressed at the flower bud differentiation stage. A novel key regulatory gene related to flower bud differentiation, GhCAL, was identified in the MElightcyan module. Anti‐GhCAL transgenic cotton plants exhibited late flower bud differentiation and flowering time. GhCAL formed heterodimers with GhAP1‐A04/GhAGL6‐D09 and regulated the expression of GhAP1‐A04 and GhAGL6‐D09. GhAP1‐A04‐ and GhAGL6‐D09‐silenced plants also showed significant late flowering. Finally, we propose a new flowering regulatory pathway mediated by GhCAL. This study elucidated the molecular mechanism of cotton flowering regulation and provides good genetic resources for cotton early‐maturing breeding.
IL17RA variations showed no associations with post‐bronchiolitis asthma or lung function
Authors: Lauhkonen Eero , Holster Annukka , Teräsjärvi Johanna , Nuolivirta Kirsi , He Qiushui , Korppi Matti
Published: July 2020

Background

Interleukin‐17A (IL‐17A) and IL‐17F are involved in the pathogenesis of asthma and allergy. Interleukin‐17 receptor A (IL‐17RA), encoded by the IL17RA gene, is a common receptor for IL‐17A and IL‐17F. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of IL17RA gene variations with asthma, allergy, and lung function at school age in children prospectively followed up after hospitalization for bronchiolitis in early infancy.

Methods

Data on IL17RA rs4819553, rs4819554, and rs4819558 polymorphisms and clinical outcomes, including asthma and allergic rhinitis, were available for 145 former bronchiolitis patients at 5–7 years and for 125 at 11–13 years of age. One hundred children underwent impulse oscillometry at 5‐7 years and 84 underwent flow‐volume spirometry at 11–13 years of age. The IL17RA rs4819553, rs4819554 and rs4819558 were completely co‐segregating in Finnish children in our previous studies.

Results

The distributions of the studied IL17RA wild versus variant genotypes and major versus minor allele frequencies did not differ between bronchiolitis cases and population controls. These variations showed no significant association with asthma or allergic rhinitis nor with lung function reduction at 5–7 or 11–13 years of ages. Only 5.6% to 6.4% of the variations were homozygous.

Conclusions

The IL17RA gene variations that were studied showed no association with susceptibility to severe bronchiolitis in infancy, nor with post‐bronchiolitis asthma or lung function at school age. Future studies should evaluate other IL17RA polymorphisms and include more cases, and especially cases with homozygous variations.
Awareness and concerns about novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) among parents of pediatric liver transplant recipients
Authors: Menon Jagadeesh , Shanmugam Naresh , Patel Kinisha , Hakeem Abdul , Reddy Mettu Srinivas , Rela Mohamed
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Pediatric transplant recipients may be at increased risk of developing serious infections due to COVID‐19. We undertook a web‐based survey among parents of post–liver transplant pediatric patients to assess knowledge and concerns regarding COVID‐19 pandemic and impact of social media on them.

Methods

This cross‐sectional online survey was conducted between March 21 and March 26, 2020. A 19‐item questionnaire was sent to 172 parents of post–liver transplant children.

Results

106 (62%) of parents responded. Median time since transplant was 31 (12‐52) months. The majority of parents had good understanding regarding symptomatology and routes of transmission. Only 27% were aware of feco‐oral transmission, and 34% knew about gastrointestinal symptoms of COVID‐19. 100% of parents understood concept of social distancing, and 70% knew that asymptomatic individuals can transmit the virus. Television followed by newspapers was the main source of their information, though over 40% claim to regularly receive information through social media. 87% would consult their doctor if the child had flu‐like symptoms rather than modify immunosuppression or try alternative medications. Parental concerns mainly revolved around early recognition of symptoms, queries on unconventional treatments circulating over social media, and supply of medications during the lockdown period.

Conclusions

The majority of parents had basic understanding of COVID‐19 pandemic. Social media appeared to be an important source of information. Results from this survey helped us in modifying patient care protocols to ensure continuity of care while maintaining social distancing.
Global data of unprotected skin minimal erythema dose relationship to Individual Typology Angle
Authors: Cole Curtis
Published: July 2020

Background

Determination of the Minimal Erythema Dose (MEDu) of unprotected skin is perhaps the most critical aspect of the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value and disproportionately influences the SPF. Individual Typology Angle (ITA°), a skin reflectance measure of the skin's pigmentation, has been used by many clinical laboratories to estimate the MEDu values for SPF testing.

Methods

Individual Typology Angle and unprotected MEDu data on 9931 individuals were received from 12 laboratories located on 5 continents to determine MEDu values in prospective sunscreen testing studies.

Results

These data were compiled and normalized by laboratory (to account for differences in number of subjects within each laboratory). A polynomial regression best fits the relationship between ITA° and their MEDu and may be used to accurately predict the MEDu of an unknown test subject.

Conclusion

The regression data have been incorporated into the latest ISO24444 (Cosmetics – Protection test methods – in vivo determination of the sun protection factor (SPF), 2019) in vivo Sunscreen testing method that must be utilized to determine a subject's provisional MEDu for the testing procedure. Use of this common ITA°‐MEDu relationship will help to minimize SPF variability between testing laboratories due to use of widely varying MEDu values.
The Historical Presidency: “No Man Is Big Enough”: President Harding's Defense of the Proto‐Modern Executive
Authors: Palmer Niall
Published: July 2020

Warren Harding's administration was not, as is widely perceived, a failed experiment in executive whiggism but a surprisingly spirited defense of presidential authority against the strongest anti‐executive backlash since Reconstruction. His support for active‐interventionist conservatism and a modified style of “steward” leadership separated him from his traditionalist Republican predecessors—William McKinley and William H. Taft—and successor—Calvin Coolidge. Ambitiously, Harding sought to fuse elements of the Roosevelt–Wilson experiments in presidential leadership with his own, less egocentric view of “balanced” constitutional government. His adaptability helped maintain the expansion of the administrative state and of the “institutional” and “rhetorical” aspects of presidential power, albeit at more modest rates than under Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. By initiating, or further enabling, growth trends in cabinet government, media influence, and institutional reform, he developed operational templates used by later Republican presidents, notably, Dwight D. Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan. Rather than being dismissed as irrelevant, therefore, Harding’s tenure should be credited both for its innovation and flexibility at a time of institutional crisis and for its contribution to the development of post‐1930s Republican presidential leadership.
Does health‐related quality of life in Asian informal caregivers differ between early‐onset dementia and late‐onset dementia?
Authors: Wang Vivian W. , Kandiah Nagaendran , Lin Xuling , Wee Hwee‐Lin
Published: July 2020

Aim

Early‐onset dementia (EOD) (defined as dementia onset before age 65) presents specific challenges and issues, adding to the negative impact of dementia on the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of both patients and their caregivers. However, very few published studies have specifically compared the HRQOL of caregivers of people with EOD and late‐onset dementia (LOD). This information is critical in allocating and prioritizing scarce health‐care resources. We aimed to assess the HRQOL of primary informal caregivers of community‐dwelling individuals with EOD in Singapore and compare it with that of caregivers of individuals with LOD.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of consecutive patient–caregiver dyads from a tertiary dementia clinic.

Results

No significant differences in disease severity were found between the 111 EOD and 235 LOD patient–caregiver dyads. The mean Mental Component Summary score of the 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey version 2 was significantly worse in caregivers of EOD patients than in LOD caregivers (mean: 41.42 vs 45.12, P = 0.001), although the mean Physical Component Summary scores were comparable (49.71 vs 49.53, P = 0.934). However, the impact of dementia early onset on caregivers' mental health diminished immediately after adjustment for the disease severity indicators, of which the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire distress score was the only significant clinical factor (regression coefficient β = −0.29, P < 0.001). The amount of variability in the HRQOL of the caregivers explained by patient and caregiver factors across all the models was rather small (adjusted R2 = 19.3% for the Mental Composite Score, 5.2% for Physical Composite Score).

Conclusion

Caregivers of EOD patients had worse mental health than LOD caregivers probably because individual with EOD have more behavioural disturbances. This reinforces the indispensable role of managing behavioural problems when caring for a family member with dementia, especially for EOD. HRQOL ideally needs to be assessed based on self‐report rather than inferences from indirect data such as the subjective caregiver burden.
The decline of mussel aquaculture in the European Union: causes, economic impacts and opportunities
Authors: Avdelas Lamprakis , Avdic‐Mravlje Edo , Borges Marques Ana Cristina , Cano Suzana , Capelle Jacob J. , Carvalho Natacha , Cozzolino Maria , Dennis John , Ellis Tim , Fernández Polanco José M. , Guillen Jordi , Lasner Tobias , Le Bihan Véronique , Llorente Ignacio , Mol Arie , Nicheva Simona , Nielsen Rasmus , van Oostenbrugge Hans , Villasante Sebastian , Visnic Svjetlana , Zhelev Kolyo , Asche Frank
Published: July 2020

In contrast to the increasing aquaculture production of mussels worldwide, production in the European Union (EU) has shown a decreasing trend over the last two decades. Aquaculture production of mussels in the EU peaked in the late 1990s at more than 600 000 tonnes; by 2016, production volume had dropped by 20% to 480 000 tonnes. As mussel production represents more than ⅓ of EU aquaculture production, this decrease is an important contributor to the stagnation of EU aquaculture. Previous studies have suggested diseases, lack of mussel seed (spat), and low profitability as the main causes of the EU mussel production decrease. In this study, we investigate how economic and environmental factors have contributed. Moreover, we examine if the different mussel production techniques (raft, longline, on‐bottom, and ‘bouchot’) have been differently affected, by analysing the economic performance and cost structure evolution for the period 2010–2016. We complement these results with a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of the EU mussel sector based on expert knowledge.
Chemical oceanographic influences on sediment accumulations of a carbonate ramp: Holocene Yucatan Shelf, Mexico
Authors: Rankey Eugene C. , Garza‐Perez Rodrigo , Eltom Hassan A.
Published: July 2020

Global controls on the oceanographic influences on the nature of carbonate factories are broadly understood. The details of the influences of changes in temperature and nutrients across individual carbonate shelves are less well constrained, however. This study explores spatial and temporal variations in chemical oceanography along and across the Yucatan Shelf, a modern carbonate ramp, and how these factors relate to variable bottom character, sediment and sediment geochemistry. In‐situ sensors and remote‐sensing data indicate the sporadic presence of cool, upwelled water with low dissolved oxygen and elevated Chlorophyll‐a. This current‐driven, westward flow of upwelled water is most evident in a zone just offshore of the northern peninsular shoreline, but its influence wanes ca 75 km offshore and as the shore turns southward. The impacts of this water mass include a transitional photozoan–heterozoan assemblage with biosiliceous components, relict grains and common thin Holocene sediment accumulations nearshore; further offshore are coralgal reefs and expansive sand plains. Geochemical proxies of bulk sediment, including high δ18O and elevated HREE/LREE (heavy rare‐earth element/light rare‐earth element) ratios near, and downcurrent of, the upwelling source, are interpreted to represent the signal of nearshore, westward movement of the cool and nutrient‐rich, upwelled water. Collectively, these data emphasize how local processes such as upwelling and longshore transport can variably influence carbonate sediment accumulations and their geochemical signatures, both along and across individual shelves. These data and insights provide an analogue for the influences of spatial variability of water masses in the geological record, and for accurate interpretation of stratigraphic changes of sedimentary and geochemical proxy data in carbonate archives.
Microvascular effects of microneedle application
Authors: Hackethal Johannes , Iredahl Fredrik , Henricson Joakim , Anderson Chris D. , Tesselaar Erik
Published: July 2020

Background

The efficiency of transdermal drug delivery may be increased by pretreating the skin with microneedles, but distinct effects of microneedles and the microneedle‐enhanced delivery of vasoactive drugs on the skin microvasculature are still not well investigated.

Materials and Methods

In eight healthy human subjects, we measured the microvascular response to microneedle‐induced microtraumas in the skin microvasculature using polarized light spectroscopy imaging (Tissue Viability imaging, TiVi). The microvascular response was assessed for up to 48 hours for three microneedle sizes (300 µm, 500 µm, and 750 µm) and for different pressures and application times.

Results

In our results, microneedle application increased the local red blood cell (RBC) concentration for up to 24 hours dependent on the needle lengths, applied time, and force.

Conclusion

Optimization of microneedles size, pressure, and application time should be taken into account for future protocols for drug delivery and experimental provocations.
Proposing a novel unsupervised stack ensemble of deep and conventional image segmentation (SEDCIS) method for localizing vitiligo lesions in skin images
Authors: Khatibi Toktam , Rezaei Niloofar , Ataei Fashtami Leila , Totonchi Mehdi
Published: July 2020

Background

Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentary skin disorder characterized by depigmented macules and patches which brings many challenges for the patients suffering from. For vitiligo severity assessment, several scoring methods have been proposed based on morphometry and colorimetry. But, all methods suffer from much inter‐ and intra‐observer variations for estimating the depigmented area. For all mentioned assessment methods of vitiligo disorder, accurate segmentation of the skin images for lesion detection and localization is required. The image segmentation for localizing vitiligo skin lesions has many challenges because of illumination variation, different shapes and sizes of vitiligo lesions, vague lesion boundaries and skin hairs and vignette effects. The manual image segmentation is a tedious and time‐consuming task. Therefore, using automatic image segmentation methods for lesion detection is necessarily required.

Materials and methods

In this study, a novel unsupervised stack ensemble of deep and conventional image segmentation (SEDCIS) methods is proposed for localizing vitiligo lesions in skin images. Unsupervised segmentation methods do not require prior manual segmentation of vitiligo lesions which is a tedious and time‐consuming task with intra‐ and inter‐observer variations.

Results

Our collected dataset includes 877 images taken from 21 patients with the resolution of 5760*3840 pixels suffering from vitiligo disorder. Experimental results show that SEDCIS outperforms the compared methods with accuracy of 97%, sensitivity of 98%, specificity of 96%, area overlapping of 94%, and Dice index of 97%.

Conclusion

The proposed method can segment vitiligo lesions with highly reasonable performance and can be used for assessing the vitiligo lesion surface.
Essential oil bearing aromatic plants: Their potential for sequestering carbon in marginal soils of India
Authors: Khan Khushboo , Verma Rajesh K.
Published: July 2020

Continuous rise in the atmospheric CO2concentration upshots the genesis of cataclysmic planetary problems such as global warming and climate change. Another critical issue which is environmentally challenging is land degradation. When productive land is poorly managed, it turns to marginal land. And further degradation of marginal land ends up to being unproductive land. On the Contrary, considerable part of depleted soil C pool can be restored through the adoption of conservation agricultural practices, unproductive land could be converted to marginal land and by its further restoration, into productive land. Aromatic plants can sustain various adverse conditions prevailing on the marginal lands. Aromatic plants require low input but the output is quite high due to the production of highvalue essential oil. The pivotal perspective of utilization of marginal lands of India for the production of aromatic plants would explore factors such as land availability, aromatic plants adaptability, C sequestration potential and economic feasibility. India is the largest exporter of essential oils and produces huge amount of aromatic spent residues, which could be converted into several valueadded products. Proficient recycle of distillation waste of aromatic plants in marginal lands will aid to sequester C in soil and enhance the biomass yield. Improvement in the livelihood of farmers especially in developing nations through rise in production and income diversification would encourage farmers to reclaim their marginal lands and accelerate their transition to aromatically cultivable lands.