bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary healthcare utilization by the elderly: a secondary analysis of the 5th Indonesian Family Life Survey
Authors: Chen Ching-Min , Baithesda Baithesda
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine different types of primary healthcare utilization and its influencing factors among the elderly in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from the 5th Indonesian Family Life Survey, a longitudinal database of demography and health information using multistage stratified sampling of households. Older adults aged at least 60 years were sampled; proxy respondents and incomplete data were excluded from the study.

Findings

Most of the elderly preferred to visit nurse/midwives practitioner (NP), followed by the community health centers (CHC). Those who lived outside of the Java region were more likely to visit NP; moreover, those without formal education and lived in the rural area were more likely to use CHC. Education level, region and chronic conditions were significant predicting factors for almost all types of primary healthcare use.

Social implications

Indonesia is moving towards an aged society in the coming decades. However, there are significant barriers to access almost all types of primary health care by the elderly in Indonesia. This shows the possibility of health care inequality for the elderly population. This study provides evidence of the various types of primary healthcare use by the elderly and its influencing factors. It hopes policymakers can use the data to develop an effective strategy to enhance the quality of primary healthcare services provides to the elderly population.

Originality/value

Indonesian nurses fulfill vital functions in the health system and are often the only human resource for health not only in remote and poor rural areas but also in urban areas. Nurses, as a part of primary care providers, require an adequately trained to contribute to the better primary care system.
The impact of HRM digitalization on firm performance: investigating three‐way interactions
Authors: Zhou Yu , Liu Guangjian , Chang Xiaoxi , Wang Lijun
Published: April 2020

In this study, drawing from adaptive structuration theory (AST) and embeddedness theory, we investigate the relationship between the interaction of HRM digitalization and HRM system maturity on firm performance as well as the moderating role played by HR strategic and business involvement. On the basis of a sample of 211 listed enterprises of China, our results indicate that the interaction of HRM digitalization and HRM system maturity is positively related to firm performance and that the relationship is strengthened by HR strategic and business involvement. The implications of our findings for research and practice are discussed.
Contracting and Reporting Conservatism around a Change in Fiduciary Duties*
Authors: Bens Daniel , Huang Sterling , Tan Liang , Wongsunwai Wan
Published: April 2020

We exploit an influential 1991 Delaware court ruling to examine simultaneously two types of conservatism that play important roles in resolving creditor–owner agency conflicts: contracting conservatism and reporting conservatism. The ruling expanded managerial fiduciary duties in favor of creditors for Delaware‐incorporated firms in the vicinity of insolvency. In those firms, following the ruling, debt contracts are less likely to include conservative adjustments to accounting numbers used for covenant compliance (i.e., contracting conservatism decreases), while public financial reporting becomes more conservative (i.e., reporting conservatism increases). The decrease in contracting conservatism is concentrated in firms that exhibit a greater increase in reporting conservatism, suggesting that reporting conservatism is more cost‐effective in resolving agency conflicts. In addition, the substitution effect is more pronounced in firms facing greater business uncertainty and firms with greater board independence.
The impact of learner engagement on performance outcomes: a longitudinal study in accounting education
Authors: de Castro Vincent Bicudo , Sridharan Bhavani , Watty Kim , Safari Maryam
Published: April 2020

This study explores the efficacy of vodcasting, as one of the advanced means of lecture recording, and discussion forums using retrospective engagement analytics data and performance outcome data on 1,172 unique students. The results provide partial support for the research hypotheses, particularly for international students, with learner engagement as a strong predictor of enhanced performance outcomes. However, no support was found for domestic students, with no significant impact of engagement on performance outcomes. That is, learner engagement may be more beneficial for international students than for domestic students. The findings support the implementation of discussion forums for enabling meaningful conversation, knowledge acquisition and peer engagement. This could pave the way for a knowledge‐sharing culture as opposed to a knowledge‐hoarding culture. Overall, the findings offer insights for higher education providers who have large international student enrolments and are interested in diversity management strategies and enhanced student engagement using disruptive technology.
Changes in the Vα7.2+ CD161++ MAIT cell compartment in early pregnancy are associated with preterm birth in HIV‐positive women
Authors: Ravi Krithi , Chan Christina Y. S. , Akoto Charlene , Zhang Wei , Vatish Manu , Norris Shane A. , Klenerman Paul , Hemelaar Joris
Published: April 2020

Problem

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth (PTB), despite viral suppression with antiretroviral therapy. Mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are an immune cell subset involved in antimicrobial immunity at mucosal surfaces. MAIT cells have been found at the maternal‐foetal interface, and MAIT cells are typically depleted early in HIV infection. We aimed to investigate changes in MAIT cells in relation to maternal HIV/ART status and PTB.

Method of Study

We conducted flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood samples from 47 HIV‐positive (HIV+) and 45 HIV‐negative (HIV−) pregnant women enrolled in a prospective pregnancy cohort study in Soweto, South Africa. Frequencies of Vα7.2+ CD161++ MAIT cells and proportions of CD4+, CD8+ and double‐negative MAIT cells were compared between women with and without HIV infection, and between women with and without PTB or spontaneous preterm labour (Sp‐PTL).

Results

Although overall MAIT cell frequencies were the same between HIV+ and HIV− patients, HIV+ patients had a higher proportion of CD8+ MAIT cells in the first two trimesters. Women with PTB and Sp‐PTL also had a higher proportion of CD8+ MAIT cells in the first trimester compared to women without these outcomes. The association between changes in MAIT cell subsets and PTB/Sp‐PTL was present in both HIV+ and HIV− women, and an additive effect on MAIT cell subsets was seen in women with both HIV infection and PTB.

Conclusions

Interactions between HIV‐related and pregnancy‐related changes in MAIT cell subsets and distribution may lead to imbalances in peripheral MAIT cell subsets in early pregnancy. This may contribute to the increased risk of PTB in HIV+ patients by altering the overall functionality of the peripheral MAIT cell compartment.
To Repress or to Co‐opt? Authoritarian Control in the Age of Digital Surveillance
Authors: Xu Xu
Published: April 2020

This article studies the consequences of digital surveillance in dictatorships. I first develop an informational theory of repression and co‐optation. I argue that digital surveillance resolves dictators' information problem of not knowing individual citizens' true anti‐regime sentiments. By identifying radical opponents, digital surveillance enables dictators to substitute targeted repression for nonexclusive co‐optation to forestall coordinated uprisings. My theory implies that as digital surveillance technologies advance, we should observe a rise in targeted repression and a decline in universal redistribution. Using a difference‐in‐differences design that exploits temporal variation in digital surveillance systems among Chinese counties, I find that surveillance increases local governments' public security expenditure and arrests of political activists but decreases public goods provision. My theory and evidence suggest that improvements in governments' information make citizens worse off in dictatorships.
Are most randomised trials in anaesthesia and critical care wrong? An analysis using Bayes’ theorem
Authors: Sidebotham D.
Published: April 2020

False findings are an inevitable consequence of statistical testing. In this article, I use Bayes’ theorem to estimate the false positive and false negative risks for randomised controlled trials related to our speciality. For small trials in peri‐operative medicine, the false positive risk appears to be at least 50%. For trials reporting weakly significant p values, the risk is even higher. By contrast, large, multicentre trials in critical care appear to have a high false negative risk. These findings suggest much of the evidence that underpins our clinical practice is likely to be wrong.
Learning curve for pancreatoduodenectomy: can it be generalized?
Authors: Park Hyeong Min , Han Sung‐Sik , Park Sang‐Jae , Kim Sun‐Whe
Published: April 2020

Background

We hypothesized that a learning curve exists for pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and that the factors that show a learning curve and the degree of improvement over time differ among surgeons.

Methods

We analysed the outcomes of PD in 300 patients operated by two surgeons between 2001 and 2014; these comprised the first 150 patients operated by each surgeon. Patients operated by each surgeon were classified into three groups according to the chronological sequence of operation (50 patients per group).

Results

For surgeon A, the median operation time (496 versus 454 versus 418 min, P < 0.001) and the mean amount of red blood cell transfusion (3.76 versus 2.76 versus 1.26 packs, P < 0.001) showed a slight but progressive decrease from the first 50 cases to the second and the third 50 cases. For surgeon B, only the operation time, which decreased and ultimately plateaued at approximately case 100, was significantly different among the groups. There was no improvement in post‐operative complications, re‐operation rates, mortality, length of stay and re‐admission rates over time for both surgeons.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that a learning curve for PD exists with respect to various factors. However, the factors for which learning curves were exhibited and the degree of improvement over time were different between the two surgeons.
Post‐operative and oncological 3‐year follow‐up outcomes in stage 2 colonic cancer in the emergency and elective setting: a cohort study
Authors: Frago Ricardo , McDermott Frank , Campillo Beatriz , Kreisler Esther , Biondo Sebastiano
Published: April 2020

Background

Stage 2 colonic cancer comprises a heterogeneous group of patients with a spectrum of disease, from invasion of the sub‐serosa to tumour perforation into visceral peritoneum/adjacent organs. This study evaluates the post‐operative outcomes and prognostic factors of patients with both emergency and elective presentations of stage 2 colonic cancer treated with curative intent.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of adult patients (emergency and elective) who underwent curative surgery for stage 2 colonic cancer in a single tertiary referral centre between 2007 and 2016 was conducted. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors. Measured variables included demographics, complications, histology, disease‐free survival and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 428 patients with stage 2 colonic cancer received curative surgical resection, and negative resection margins were achieved in all cases: T3 group (stage 2A): 316 (73.8%); T4a group (stage 2B): 78 patients (18.2%); and T4b group (stage 2C): 34 (8%). There were 187 (45.7%) post‐operative complications, 32 (7.5%) anastomotic leaks and eight (1.9%) 30‐day mortalities. Eighty patients (19.3%) died during the follow‐up. During the follow‐up period, 45 patients developed recurrence (all distant). Multivariate analysis identified age >70 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists grades III–IV and male gender as factors associated with poor OS, while recurrence was higher in those aged over 70 years and with stages 2B–2C disease.

Conclusion

Surgical morbidity in patients with stage 2 colonic cancer who have undergone curative surgery is high. Older and more co‐morbid patients have poorer OS. Stages 2B and 2C colon cancer patients have worse prognosis than those with stage 2A regarding recurrence. Future larger data sets are required to determine the role of transmural spread as a prognostic factor.
Maternal and perinatal outcomes with COVID‐19: A systematic review of 108 pregnancies
Authors: Zaigham Mehreen , Andersson Ola
Published: April 2020

Introduction

The pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has exposed vulnerable populations to an unprecedented global health crisis. The knowledge gained from previous human coronavirus outbreaks suggests that pregnant women and their fetuses are particularly susceptible to poor outcomes. The objective of this study was to summarize the clinical manifestations and maternal and perinatal outcomes of COVID‐19 during pregnancy.

Material and methods

We searched databases for all case reports and series from 12 February to 4 April 2020. Multiple terms and combinations were used including COVID‐19, pregnancy, maternal mortality, maternal morbidity, complications, clinical manifestations, neonatal morbidity, intrauterine fetal death, neonatal mortality and SARS‐CoV‐2. Eligibility criteria included peer‐reviewed publications written in English or Chinese and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or dual fluorescence PCR‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Unpublished reports, unspecified date and location of the study or suspicion of duplicate reporting, cases with suspected COVID‐19 that were not confirmed by a laboratory test, and unreported maternal or perinatal outcomes were excluded. Data on clinical manifestations, maternal and perinatal outcomes including vertical transmission were extracted and analyzed.

Results

Eighteen articles reporting data from 108 pregnancies between 8 December 2019 and 1 April 2020 were included in the current study. Most reports described women presenting in the third trimester with fever (68%) and coughing (34%). Lymphocytopenia (59%) with elevated C‐reactive protein (70%) was observed and 91% of the women were delivered by cesarean section. Three maternal intensive care unit admissions were noted but no maternal deaths. One neonatal death and one intrauterine death were also reported.

Conclusions

Although the majority of mothers were discharged without any major complications, severe maternal morbidity as a result of COVID‐19 and perinatal deaths were reported. Vertical transmission of the COVID‐19 could not be ruled out. Careful monitoring of pregnancies with COVID‐19 and measures to prevent neonatal infection are warranted.
Osteoprotegerin levels in children with subclinical hypothyroidism
Authors: Giannakopoulos Aristeidis , Katsantoni Elena , Kritikou Dimitra , Chrysis Dionisios
Published: April 2020

Aim

In this study, we investigated the osteoprotegerin (OPG) and soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa Β ligand (sRANKL) serum levels in association with thyroid function in children with subclinical hypothyroidism.

Methods

In 143 children and adolescents with subclinical hypothyroidism and 343 with normal thyroid function, age, height, weight and pubertal status were recorded and TSH, free thyroxine (FT4), anti‐thyroid antibodies, OPG and sRANKL were measured in serum. Multiple linear regression was used for the statistical analysis with P < .05.

Results

Children with subclinical hypothyroidism had higher TSH and lower FT4 serum levels than the control group (P < .05). Both groups had similar BMI Z‐score, OPG and sRANKL serum levels. After multiple regression analysis, in children with subclinical hypothyroidism, OPG was negatively associated with FT4 (P < .05) whilst no association was observed between OPG and sRANKL, as well as between FT4 serum levels and RANKL.

Conclusion

Osteoprotegerin levels in children with subclinical hypothyroidism do not differ from those of euthyroid children. However, there is a negative association between FT4 and OPG levels observed only in the SH group. Considering the link between vascular dysfunction and alterations in osteoprotegerin levels, further research is needed to establish the role of childhood subclinical hypothyroidism in the long‐term cardiovascular risk.
Toward a climate‐informed North American protected areas network: Incorporating climate‐change refugia and corridors in conservation planning
Authors: Stralberg Diana , Carroll Carlos , Nielsen Scott E.
Published: April 2020

Global and national commitments to slow biodiversity loss by expanding protected area networks also provide opportunities to evaluate conservation priorities in the face of climate change. Using recently developed indicators of climatic macrorefugia, environmental diversity, and corridors, we conducted a systematic, climate‐informed prioritization of conservation values across North America. We explicitly considered complementarity of multiple conservation objectives, capturing key niche‐based temperature and moisture thresholds for 324 tree species and 268 songbird species. Conservation rankings were influenced most strongly by climate corridors and species‐specific refugia layers. Although areas of high conservation value under climate change were partially aligned with existing protected areas, ∼80% of areas within the top quintile of biome‐level conservation values lack formal protection. Results from this study and application of our approach elsewhere can help improve the long‐term value of conservation investments at multiple spatial scales.
Synthesis, structural characterization, and thermal properties of Ca‐ and La‐doped soda‐lime glasses by laser melting
Authors: Ali Sharafat , Wójcik Natalia A. , Jonson Bo , Kamitsos E.I. , Li Xinghua , Luo Jian , Möncke Doris
Published: April 2020

Laser melting techniques have been used in the preparation of unconventional glass compositions with high melting temperatures. Thus, we wanted to test the feasibility of using a CO2 laser in the preparation of nitrogen‐rich oxynitride glasses and nitride silicate glasses. Melting from oxides and metallic raw materials, we wanted to study first glass formation and possible evaporation losses of the glass components. Two glass series were prepared and studied for their structure and thermal properties, one with Ca2+‐ and a higher melting La3+‐doped soda‐lime‐silicate (SLS) series. In less than 3 minutes of laser melting, spheres of up to 6 mm diameter were successfully fabricated. The obtained glass samples were homogeneous and transparent in the visible region. X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic analysis confirmed the amorphous nature of the synthesized samples. Sodium losses increase as calcium is added to the soda‐lime‐silicate glass. As expected, increasing Ca2+ or La3+ addition lead to increased depolymerization of the silicate network. Moreover, the increases in Tg with the addition of Ca2+ or La3+ ions indicating strengthening of the soda‐lime‐silicate glass by increasing strength of the M‐O bonds of divalent and trivalent ions over monovalent sodium ions, weak Na‐O bonds also resulting in significant evaporation loss during the short laser melting times. The thermal stability decreases upon addition of Ca2+ or La3+ ions to the soda‐lime‐silicate glasses.
Selective and ATP‐competitive kinesin KIF18A inhibitor suppresses the replication of influenza A virus
Authors: Cho Yong‐Bin , Hong Sungguan , Kang Kyung‐Won , Kang Ji‐Hun , Lee Sang‐Myeong , Seo Young‐Jin
Published: April 2020

The influenza virus is one of the major public health threats. However, the development of efficient vaccines and therapeutic drugs to combat this virus is greatly limited by its frequent genetic mutations. Because of this, targeting the host factors required for influenza virus replication may be a more effective strategy for inhibiting a broader spectrum of variants. Here, we demonstrated that inhibition of a motor protein kinesin family member 18A (KIF18A) suppresses the replication of the influenza A virus (IAV). The expression of KIF18A in host cells was increased following IAV infection. Intriguingly, treatment with the selective and ATP‐competitive mitotic kinesin KIF18A inhibitor BTB‐1 substantially decreased the expression of viral RNAs and proteins, and the production of infectious viral particles, while overexpression of KIF18A enhanced the replication of IAV. Importantly, BTB‐1 treatment attenuated the activation of AKT, p38 MAPK, SAPK and Ran‐binding protein 3 (RanBP3), which led to the prevention of the nuclear export of viral ribonucleoprotein complexes. Notably, administration of BTB‐1 greatly improved the viability of IAV‐infected mice. Collectively, our results unveiled a beneficial role of KIF18A in IAV replication, and thus, KIF18A could be a potential therapeutic target for the control of IAV infection.
Hybridization and transgressive exploration of colour pattern and wing morphology in Heliconius butterflies
Authors: Mérot Claire , Debat Vincent , Le Poul Yann , Merrill Richard M. , Naisbit Russell E. , Tholance Adélie , Jiggins Chris D. , Joron Mathieu
Published: April 2020

Hybridization can generate novel phenotypes distinct from those of parental lineages, a phenomenon known as transgressive trait variation. Transgressive phenotypes might negatively or positively affect hybrid fitness, and increase available variation. Closely related species of Heliconius butterflies regularly produce hybrids in nature, and hybridization is thought to play a role in the diversification of novel wing colour patterns despite strong stabilizing selection due to interspecific mimicry. Here, we studied wing phenotypes in first‐ and second‐generation hybrids produced by controlled crosses between either two co‐mimetic species of Heliconius or between two nonmimetic species. We quantified wing size, shape and colour pattern variation and asked whether hybrids displayed transgressive wing phenotypes. Discrete traits underlain by major‐effect loci, such as the presence or absence of colour patches, generate novel phenotypes. For quantitative traits, such as wing shape or subtle colour pattern characters, hybrids only exceed the parental range in specific dimensions of the morphological space. Overall, our study addresses some of the challenges in defining and measuring phenotypic transgression for multivariate traits and our data suggest that the extent to which transgressive trait variation in hybrids contributes to phenotypic diversity depends on the complexity and the genetic architecture of the traits.
COVID‐19 and Older Adults: What We Know
Authors: Shahid Zainab , Kalayanamitra Ricci , McClafferty Brendan , Kepko Douglas , Ramgobin Devyani , Patel Ravi , Aggarwal Chander Shekher , Vunnam Ramarao , Sahu Nitasa , Bhatt Dhirisha , Jones Kirk , Golamari Reshma , Jain Rohit
Published: April 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), a novel virus that causes COVID‐19 infection, has recently emerged and caused a deadly pandemic. Studies have shown that this virus causes worse outcomes and a higher mortality rate in older adults and those with comorbidities such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). A significant percentage of older American adults have these diseases, putting them at a higher risk of infection. Additionally, many adults with hypertension, diabetes, and CKD are placed on angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers. Studies have shown that these medications upregulate the ACE‐2 receptor, the very receptor that the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus uses to enter host cells. Although it has been hypothesized that this may cause a further increased risk of infection, more studies on the role of these medications in COVID‐19 infections are necessary. In this review, we discuss the transmission, symptomatology, and mortality of COVID‐19 as they relate to older adults, and possible treatments that are currently under investigation. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:926–929, 2020
Use of professional interpreters for children and families with limited English proficiency: The intersection with quality and safety
Authors: Brophy‐Williams Sam , Boylen Susan , Gill Fenella J , Wilson Sally , Cherian Sarah
Published: April 2020

Aim

Linguistic diversity is increasing nationally; patients with limited English proficiency require provision of professional interpreters. We reviewed hospital‐wide use of interpreters for low English proficiency in a tertiary hospital across emergency (ED), outpatient and inpatient presentations.

Methods

Two cohorts with low English proficiency presenting to Princess Margaret Hospital were audited. Records of new Refugee Health Service patients (presenting between January and July 2015) and non‐Refugee Health Service low English proficiency patients (obtained through Language Services bookings) were reviewed to assess demographic profiles and use of interpreters for any occasion of service over the following 12 months (for each patient).

Results

Data from 188 patients were reviewed (Refugee Health Service: 119 patients; non‐Refugee Health Service: 69 patients; total 1027 occasions of service); all were under 18 years of age. High socio‐economic disadvantage and limited education was noted. Almost all (98.5%) had low English proficiency; 3 Refugee Health Service parents spoke English; 68% of non‐Refugee Health Service patients were in families previously transitioned from that service. Interpreter use was poor across all areas. Thirty‐four patients had 46 inpatient admissions with documented interpreter use for 59% (20/34) of these. All patients underwent at least one procedure, with no instances of interpreter documentation for procedure consent. Documented interpreter use was minimal in outpatient occasions of service (32/118, 27% Refugee Health Service; 18/222, 8% non‐Refugee Health Service). Only one Refugee Health Service patient had evidence of ED interpreter use, out of 78 ED occasions of service (34 patients).

Conclusions

Despite documented low English proficiency, suboptimal and inadequate use of professional interpreters persists. Low English proficiency patients are vulnerable, with socio‐economic disadvantage, likely to impact on health outcomes and compliance. Organisational risk also is highlighted, including impact on clinical handover, informed consent and non‐compliance with state language services policy. Further staff education and quality improvement work is essential.
Determinants of legacy effects in pine trees – implications from an irrigation‐stop experiment
Authors: Zweifel Roman , Etzold Sophia , Sterck Frank , Gessler Arthur , Anfodillo Tommaso , Mencuccini Maurizio , von Arx Georg , Lazzarin Martina , Haeni Matthias , Feichtinger Linda , Meusburger Katrin , Knuesel Simon , Walthert Lorenz , Salmon Yann , Bose Arun K. , Schoenbeck Leonie , Hug Christian , De Girardi Nicolas , Giuggiola Arnaud , Schaub Marcus , Rigling Andreas
Published: April 2020

Tree responses to altered water availability range from immediate (e.g. stomatal regulation) to delayed (e.g. crown size adjustment). The interplay of the different response times and processes, and their effects on long‐term whole‐tree performance, however, is hardly understood.

Here we investigated legacy effects on structures and functions of mature Scots pine in a dry inner‐Alpine Swiss valley after stopping an 11‐yr lasting irrigation treatment. Measured ecophysiological time series were analysed and interpreted with a system‐analytic tree model.

We found that the irrigation stop led to a cascade of downregulations of physiological and morphological processes with different response times. Biophysical processes responded within days, whereas needle and shoot lengths, crown transparency, and radial stem growth reached control levels after up to 4 yr only. Modelling suggested that organ and carbon reserve turnover rates play a key role for a tree’s responsiveness to environmental changes. Needle turnover rate was found to be most important to accurately model stem growth dynamics.

We conclude that leaf area and its adjustment time to new conditions is the main determinant for radial stem growth of pine trees as the transpiring area needs to be supported by a proportional amount of sapwood, despite the growth‐inhibiting environmental conditions.
Histone demethylase SlJMJ6 promotes fruit ripening by removing H3K27 methylation of ripening‐related genes in tomato
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Jiang Guoxiang , Liu Xuncheng , Ding Xiaochun , Zhang Dandan , Wang Xiaowan , Zhou Yijie , Yan Huiling , Li Taotao , Wu Keqiang , Jiang Yueming , Duan Xuewu
Published: April 2020

Fruit ripening is governed by a complex regulatory network. Reversible histone methylation and demethylation regulate chromatin structure and gene expression. However, little is known about the involvement of histone demethylases in regulating fruit ripening.

Here, we found that the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) SlJMJ6 encodes a histone lysine demethylase that specifically demethylates H3K27 methylation. Overexpression of SlJMJ6 accelerates tomato fruit ripening, which is associated with the upregulated expression of a large number of ripening‐related genes.

Integrated analysis of RNA‐seq and chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing identified 32 genes directly targeted by SlJMJ6 and transcriptionally upregulated with decreased H3K27m3 in SlJMJ6‐overexpressed fruit. Numerous SlJMJ6‐regulated genes are involved in transcription regulation, ethylene biosynthesis, cell wall degradation and hormone signaling. Eleven ripening‐related genes including RIPENING INHIBITOR (RIN), 1‐aminocyclopropane 1‐carboxylate synthase‐4 (ACS4), 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate oxidase 1 (ACO1), pectate lyase (PL) and beta‐galactosidase 4 (TBG4), and a DNA demethylase DML2, were confirmed to be regulated directly by SlJMJ6 through removing H3K27me3.

Our results demonstrate that SlJMJ6 is a ripening‐prompting H3K27me3 demethylase that activates the expression of the ripening‐related genes by modulating H3K27me3, thereby facilitating tomato fruit ripening. Our work also reveals a novel link between histone demethylation and DNA demethylation in regulating fruit ripening. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the involvement of a histone lysine demethylase in the regulation of fruit ripening.
Diagnostic accuracy of R‐wave detection by insertable cardiac monitors
Authors: De Coster Margot , Demolder Anthony , De Meyer Veerle , Vandenbulcke Filiep , Van Heuverswyn Frederic , De Pooter Jan
Published: April 2020

Background

Insertable cardiac monitors (ICM) allow prolonged rhythm monitoring, but the diagnostic performance can be hampered by false positive arrhythmia alerts related to inadequate R‐wave sensing. This study assesses the prevalence and predictors of inadequate R‐wave sensing (both over‐ and undersensing) among different ICM types.

Methods

Patients implanted with an ICM at Ghent University Hospital between January 2017 and August 2018 were included. ICM tracings recorded at interrogation or transmitted by remote monitoring were reviewed for inadequate R‐wave sensing leading to false arrhythmia alerts. Patient and implant characteristics were retrieved from the medical records and implant reports.

Results

The study screened 135 patients (age 59 ± 19 years, 44% female) implanted with different ICM types: Reveal LINQ™ and XT (Medtronic): n = 92 (68%), Confirm and Confirm Rx (Abbott): n = 35 (26%), and BioMonitor 2 (Biotronik): n = 8 (6%). ICM tracings were analyzed in 112 patients (83%). False arrhythmia alerts occurred in 22 (20%) patients, most frequently related to undersensing (77%). False diagnosis of bradycardia or pause was documented in 64%, false high ventricular rates in 14%, and false atrial fibrillation alerts in 22%. Occurrence of R‐wave changes was not related to patient characteristics or implant R‐wave sensing. A trend toward higher number of inadequate R‐wave sensing seems to occur with nonparasternal implant sites (P = .074).

Conclusions

False arrhythmia alerts due to inadequate R‐wave sensing occurred in 20% of ICM patients independent of implant features and patient characteristics.
Identification of a novel recessive gene for resistance to powdery mildew (Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei) in barley (Hordeum vulgare)
Authors: Piechota Urszula , Słowacki Piotr , Czembor Paweł C.
Published: April 2020

One of the most important diseases of barley (Hordeum vulgare) is powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei. Spring barley line 173‐1‐2 was selected from a Moroccan landrace and revealed broad‐spectrum resistance to powdery mildew. The objective of this study was to map and characterize the gene for seedling powdery mildew resistance in this line. After crossing with the susceptible cultivar ‘Manchuria’, genetic analysis of F2 and F3 families at the seedling stage revealed powdery mildew resistance in line 173‐1‐2 conditioned by a single recessive gene. Molecular analysis of non‐segregating homozygous resistant and homozygous susceptible F2 plants conducted on the DArTseq platform (Diversity Arrays Technology Pty Ltd) identified significant markers which were converted to allele‐specific PCR markers and tested among 94 F2 individuals. The new resistance gene was mapped on the long arm of chromosome 6H. No other powdery mildew recessive resistance gene has been located on 6H so far. Therefore, we concluded that the 173‐1‐2 barley line carries a novel recessive resistance gene designated as mlmr.
Development of a multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) population for genetic exploitation of complex traits in Brassica juncea: Glucosinolate content as an example
Authors: Yan Wei , Zhao Haifei , Yu Kunjiang , Wang Tianya , Khattak Aimal Nawaz , Tian Entang
Published: April 2020

Multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) populations have recently been developed to allow the high‐resolution mapping of complex quantitative traits. This article describes the development of one MAGIC population and verifies its potential application for mapping quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in Brassica juncea. A total of 170 RILs were genotyped using 346 intron length polymorphism (ILP) polymorphic markers. The population lacks significant signatures of population structure that are suitable for the analysis of complex traits. Genome‐wide association mapping (GWAS) identified three major glucosinolate (GSL) QTLs of QGsl.ig01.1 on J01 for indole GSL (IG), QGsl.atg09.1 on J09 and QGsl.atg11.1 on J11 for aliphatic GSL (AG) and total GSL (TG). The candidate genes for QGsl.ig01.1, QGsl.atg09.1 and QGsl.atg11.1 are GSH1, GSL‐ALK and MYB28, which are involved in converting glutamate and cysteine to γ‐EC, the accumulation of glucoraphanin and the whole process of AG metabolism, respectively. In addition to its QTL mapping purpose, the MAGIC population could also be potentially utilized in variety development by breeders.
Encoding, storage, and response preparation—Distinct EEG correlates of stimulus and action representations in working memory
Authors: Schneider Daniel , Zickerick Bianca , Thönes Sven , Wascher Edmund
Published: April 2020

Working memory (WM) allows for the active storage of stimulus‐ and higher level representations, such as action plans. This electroencephalography (EEG) study investigated the specific electrophysiological correlates dissociating action‐related from stimulus‐related representations in WM using three different experimental conditions based on the same stimulus material. In the experiment, a random sequence of single numbers (from 1 to 6) was presented and participants had to indicate whether the current number (N0 condition), the preceding number (N‐1 condition), or the sum of the current and the preceding number (S‐1 condition) was odd or even. Accordingly, participants had to store a stimulus representation in S‐1 and an action representation in N‐1 until the onset of the next stimulus. In the EEG, the storage of stimulus representations (S‐1) was reflected by a fronto‐central slow wave indicating the rehearsal of information that was required for the response in the following trial. In contrast, the storage of action representations (N‐1) went along with a posterior positive slow wave, suggesting that the action plan was actively stored in WM until the presentation of the next stimulus. Crucially, preparing for the next response in N‐1 was associated with increased contralateral mu/beta suppression, predicting the response time in the given trial. Our findings, thus, show that the WM processes for stimulus‐ and action representations can be clearly dissociated from each other with a distinct sequence of EEG correlates for encoding, storage, and response preparation.
Dynamic Left Atrioventricular Phantom Test Bed Emulating Mitral Valve Motion
Authors: Azar Toufic , McLennan Stewart , Walsh Michael , Angeles Jorge , Kövecses Jozsef , Jaramillo Tabitha , Mongrain Rosaire , Cecere Renzo
Published: April 2020

Novel catheter-based medical procedures targeting heart valve structures are currently under development. These techniques entail installing a prosthetic implant on valves inside a beating heart. The development of these approaches requires a simple and effective validation test bed. Current early process testing methods rely on both static and dynamically pressurized excised porcine hearts. The variability between excised-tissue mechanical properties poses problems of reproducibility. In addition, these test beds do not emulate annulus motion, which affects the implant installation. A reproducible phantom of the left atrioventricular chambers was developed. The system consists of a hydraulic constant flow arrangement and a polyvinyl alcohol phantom heart with material properties that mimic passive myocardium mechanical properties and annulus motion. The system was then used to emulate blood flow through an actual heart. The building process starts by obtaining an accurate computer-aided design (CAD) model of a human heart, from which, a mold is produced using a novel rapid-freezing prototyping method and computer numerical control machining. The phantom is then cast-out of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a hydrogel, whose mechanical properties are set by subjecting the phantom to freeze and thaw cycles. Subsequently, blood flow is emulated at a constant volumetric rate at the atrial pressure observed in a healthy adult human heart at rest. The annulus motion is implemented by suturing the outside of the phantom to a one-degree-of-freedom cam-follower mechanism reproducing valve motion. Such test beds could play a significant role in future development of medical devices.
Psychosocial Climates Differentially Predict 12- to 14-Year-Old Competitive Soccer Players’ Goal Orientations
Authors: Moore E. Whitney G. , Weiller-Abels Karen
Published: April 2020

Youth’s likelihood of participating in sport increases when they maintain a focus on enjoyment, learning, and effort (i.e., task goal orientation) rather than how they compare to others and norms (i.e., ego goal orientation). Achievement goal theory research consistently illustrates the significant influence of leader-created motivational climates on their participants’ goal orientation adoption. However, the influence of caring climate perceptions by highly competitive adolescent athletes on their goal orientation adoption has yet to be examined. Thus, this study assessed how competitive, adolescent soccer players’ perceptions of the climate as caring, task-, and ego-involving predicted their adoption of task and ego goal orientations. Players (N = 152, 62% female, 12–14 years of age) in the Olympic Development Program completed a survey that included measures of the caring climate, task-involving and ego-involving motivational climates, and task and ego goal orientations in soccer. Path analyses revealed males’ task goal orientation was significantly predicted by caring and task-involving climate perceptions. Females’ task goal orientation was significantly predicted by their task-involving climate perceptions. Ego goal orientation was significantly predicted by all athletes’ ego-involving climate perceptions. This is the first study to support the importance of fostering a high caring, as well as high task-involving, and low ego-involving climate when working with highly competitive adolescent athletes to keep their task goal orientation high. Research replicating this study is warranted to provide further support for these relationships longitudinally and across ages and sexes.
Ecological Importance of Cross-Feeding of the Intermediate Metabolite 1,2-Propanediol between Bacterial Gut Symbionts
Authors: Cheng Christopher C. , Duar Rebbeca M. , Lin Xiaoxi , Perez-Munoz Maria Elisa , Tollenaar Stephanie , Oh Jee-Hwan , van Pijkeren Jan-Peter , Li Fuyong , van Sinderen Douwe , Gänzle Michael G. , Walter Jens
Published: April 2020

Through experiments in gnotobiotic mice that employed isogenic mutants of bacterial strains that produce (
Bifidobacterium breve
) and utilize (
Lactobacillus reuteri
) 1,2-propanediol, this study provides mechanistic insight into the ecological ramifications of a trophic interaction between gut symbionts. The findings improve our understanding on how cross-feeding influences the competitive fitness of
L. reuteri
in the vertebrate gut and revealed a putative selective force that shaped the evolution of the species. The findings are relevant since they provide a basis to design rational microbial-based strategies to modulate gut ecosystems, which could employ mixtures of bacterial strains that establish trophic interactions or a personalized approach based on the ability of a resident microbiota to provide resources for the incoming microbe.
Outer Membrane Lipid Secretion and the Innate Immune Response to Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Giordano Nicole P. , Cian Melina B. , Dalebroux Zachary D.
Published: April 2020

The outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria is an asymmetric lipid bilayer that consists of inner leaflet phospholipids and outer leaflet lipopolysaccharides (LPS). The asymmetric character and unique biochemistry of LPS molecules contribute to the OM’s ability to function as a molecular permeability barrier that protects the bacterium against hazards in the environment. Assembly and regulation of the OM have been extensively studied for understanding mechanisms of antibiotic resistance and bacterial defense against host immunity; however, there is little knowledge on how Gram-negative bacteria release their OMs into their environment to manipulate their hosts.
Convergence between Regulation of Carbon Utilization and Catabolic Repression in
Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous
Authors: Martinez-Moya Pilar , Campusano Sebastián , Córdova Pamela , Paradela Alberto , Sepulveda Dionisia , Alcaíno Jennifer , Baeza Marcelo , Cifuentes Víctor
Published: April 2020

The conditions affecting catabolic regulation in
X. dendrorhous
are complex and suggest the presence of an alternative mechanism of regulation. The repressors Mig1, Cyc8, and Tup1 are essential elements for the regulation of the use of glucose and other carbon sources. All play different roles but, depending on the growth conditions, can work in convergent, synergistic, and complementary ways to use carbon sources and to regulate other targets for yeast metabolism. Our results reinforced the belief that further studies in
X. dendrorhous
are needed to clarify a specific regulatory mechanism at the domain level of the repressors as well as its relationship with those of other metabolic repressors, i.e., the stress response, to elucidate carotenogenic regulation at the transcriptomic and proteomic levels in this yeast.
Oxadiazole-Containing Macrocyclic Peptides Potentiate Azole Activity against Pathogenic
Candida
Species
Authors: Revie Nicole M. , Robbins Nicole , Whitesell Luke , Frost John R. , Appavoo Solomon D. , Yudin Andrei K. , Cowen Leah E.
Published: April 2020

Fungal infections, such as those caused by pathogenic
Candida
species, pose a serious threat to human health. Treating these infections relies heavily on the use of azole antifungals; however, resistance to these drugs develops readily, demanding novel therapeutic strategies. This study characterized the antifungal activity of a series of molecules that possess unique chemical attributes and the ability to traverse cellular membranes. We observed that many of the compounds increased the activity of the azole fluconazole against
Candida albicans
, without blocking the action of drug efflux pumps. These molecules also increased the efficacy of azoles against other
Candida
species, including the emerging azole-resistant pathogen
Candida auris
. Thus, we describe a novel chemical scaffold with broad-spectrum bioactivity against clinically important fungal pathogens.
Initiating Self-Administration of Medicines for inpatients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Balfour-Lynn Ian M , Khan Khola , Pentayya Nimla , Pheasant Clare , Bentley Sian , Makhecha Sukeshi
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) take a multitude of therapies at home. Self-Administration of Medicines (SAM) is a scheme whereby the parent/carer and/or older child keep control of their own medicines in hospital. We initiated a scheme and assessed drug errors, cost implications, and parent and nurse satisfaction.

Methods

Following a pilot stage, the SAM protocol was initiated and amended as necessary. Drug errors were analysed from the Datix hospital electronic reporting system. Cost analysis of use of the patents own drugs was carried out. Questionnaires were given to parents and nursing staff.

Results

In the initial 10 months, 97 children had 159 admissions, and 60% were deemed suitable for SAM. Drug errors still occurred—33 in 5 years. Cost savings for the hospital over 1 year were £20 022 for 123 admissions. Patient/parent satisfaction was high, and all wished to partake in SAM for further admissions.

Conclusions

The scheme was a success although it took 3 years to bring to fruition. Drug errors still occurred but we were able to amend the protocol appropriately to react to these. Cost savings are an incidental benefit from use of patient’s own medication. The SAM scheme is applicable to all children with chronic disease on long term medications when they are in hospital.
Low-risk myelodysplastic syndrome managed with an erythroid-stimulating agent for 10 years
Authors: Esparza Anthony , Singaraju Raj Chandra , Happel Joseph Paul
Published: April 2020

A 57-year-old man with a history of diabetes and coronary artery disease was referred to haematology for the evaluation of anaemia in the setting of non-cardiac chest pain, fatigue, dyspnoea and dizziness. Previous investigations into these recurrent symptoms focused on a re-evaluation of his known ischaemic heart disease, which required multiple percutaneous interventions with stenting several years ago. In the year leading up to his referral, the patient required two transfusions during separate hospitalisations. Previously, his chronic anaemia was attributed to chronic inflammation because of unrevealing micronutrient and endoscopic evaluations. The patient underwent a bone marrow biopsy, which demonstrated normal karyotype myelodysplastic syndrome with ringed sideroblasts. This patient was found to have favourable cytogenetics and low-risk disease. His anaemia and associated symptoms improved with the administration of an erythroid-stimulating agent. Now 75 years old, he has remained on single-agent therapy for 10 years without need of transfusion.