bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: The association between post‐traumatic stress disorder and irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Ng Qin Xiang , Soh Alex Yu Sen , Loke Wayren , Venkatanarayanan Nandini , Lim Donovan Yutong , Yeo Wee‐Song
Published: August 2018

Background and Aim

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by symptoms of hyperarousal and hypervigilance. Increasing research on the “gut–brain” axis (bidirectional signaling between the gut and the brain) has drawn links between PTSD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), an exceedingly common yet incompletely understood gastrointestinal condition. This meta‐analysis thus aimed to examine the body of evidence and extent of association of PTSD with IBS.

Methods

Using the keywords [early abuse OR childhood abuse OR violence OR trauma OR PTSD] AND [irritable bowel syndrome or IBS], a preliminary search on the PubMed, Medline, Embase, ScienceDirect, PsychINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases yielded 11,257 papers published in English between January 1, 1988, and May 1, 2018. Of these, only eight studies were included in the final meta‐analysis.

Results

The eight studies (four cross‐sectional and four cohort) contained a total of 648,375 subjects. Most studies were from the USA and conducted on army veterans. The funnel plot revealed a roughly symmetrical distribution of studies, and Egger test was not significant for publication bias (P = 0.583). Random‐effects meta‐analysis found PTSD to be a significant risk factor for IBS (pooled odds ratio 2.80, 95% confidence interval: 2.06 to 3.54, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Overall, PTSD is associated with an increased likelihood of IBS. This is the first meta‐analysis to specifically examine the association between PTSD and IBS, and it provides insights into the probable (patho)physiology and management of IBS, supporting a holistic consideration of the psychosocial aspects of IBS and further research into effective multi‐modal therapeutics.
Efficacy and safety of elbasvir/grazoprevir for Japanese patients with genotype 1b chronic hepatitis C complicated by chronic kidney disease, including those undergoing hemodialysis: A post hoc analysis of a multicenter study
Authors: Atsukawa Masanori , Tsubota Akihito , Toyoda Hidenori , Takaguchi Koichi , Kondo Chisa , Okubo Tomomi , Hiraoka Atsushi , Michitaka Kojiro , Fujioka Shinichi , Uojima Haruki , Watanabe Tsunamasa , Ikeda Hiroki , Asano Toru , Ishikawa Toru , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Abe Hiroshi , Kato Keizo , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ogawa Chikara , Shimada Noritomo , Iio Etsuko , Mikami Shigeru , Tanaka Yasuhito , Kumada Takashi , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: August 2018

Background and Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of elbasvir/grazoprevir in genotype 1b chronic hepatitis C Japanese patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods

This post hoc analysis of a multicenter, retrospective study included patients who had received elbasvir/grazoprevir. CKD was defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. The sustained virologic response (SVR) rate and frequency of treatment‐emergent adverse events were assessed in patients with CKD.

Results

The study population comprised 155 men and 182 women. The median eGFR level at baseline was 69.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 (range, 3.0–128.5 mL/min/1.73 m2). Among the 337 patients, 109 (32.3%) had CKD: 72, 14, and 23 (including 20 hemodialysis) had CKD stages 3, 4, and 5, respectively. The SVR rates according to the baseline CKD stages were 98.1% (51/52) in stage 1, 98.3% (173/176) in stage 2, 93.9% (46/49) in stage 3a, 100% (23/23) in stage 3b, 100% (14/14) in stage 4, and 100% (23/23) in stage 5. All 20 patients undergoing hemodialysis achieved SVR. There was no significant decrease from baseline in the median eGFR level throughout the treatment period among the patients with CKD. The incidence of treatment‐emergent adverse events was 6.4% (7/109) among the patients with CKD and 9.7% (22/228) among the patients without CKD (not significant, P = 0.323).

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that elbasvir and grazoprevir are highly effective and safe for genotype 1b chronic hepatitis C Japanese patients with CKD, including those undergoing hemodialysis.
Validity of Japanese version of SARC‐F questionnaire in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Ida Satoshi , Kojima Yuji , Hamaoka Shima , Urawa Naohito , Araki Jun , Kaneko Ryutaro , Murata Kazuya
Published: August 2018

Background and Aim

We aimed to examine the validity of the Japanese version of SARC‐F questionnaire (SARC‐F‐J) that employs the diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia established by the Japan Society of Hepatology in patients with chronic liver disease.

Methods

Subjects were outpatients at the Department of Hepatology at the Japanese Red Cross Ise Hospital, Japan. Evaluations were performed using the following self‐administered questionnaires: SARC‐F‐J, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG‐IC), the Japanese version of the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and Kaigo–Yobo Checklist (CL). Based on the diagnostic criteria of the Japan Society of Hepatology, we diagnosed sarcopenia from the skeletal muscle index calculated using the iliopsoas muscle area at the third lumbar vertebra on computed tomography and from grip strength. To evaluate construct validity, we calculated the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of SARC‐F‐J that used the diagnostic criteria of the Japan Society of Hepatology as reference. Furthermore, to evaluate convergent validity, we calculated Pearson's correlation coefficients between SARC‐F‐J and TMIG‐IC, FES, and CL.

Results

A total of 140 subjects were included in the analysis set. Sensitivity and specificity were 16.3% and 45.0% and 95.3% and 90.8% for men and women, respectively. The positive predictive value was 81.8% for both, whereas the negative predictive value was 47.1% and 64.5% for men and women, respectively. A significant correlation was seen between SARC‐F‐J and TMIG‐IC, FES, and CL.

Conclusions

We believe that the SARC‐F‐J is a valid tool for patients with chronic liver disease.
β‐Arrestin1 alleviates acute pancreatitis via repression of NF‐κBp65 activation
Authors: Tao Li , Lin Xianyi , Tan Siwei , Lei Yiming , Liu Huiling , Guo Yuwei , Zheng Fengping , Wu Bin
Published: August 2018

Background and Aim

β‐Arrestins (β‐arrs) are regulators and mediators of G protein‐coupled receptor signaling that are functionally involved in inflammation. Nuclear factor‐κB p65 (NF‐κBp65) activation has been observed early in the onset of pancreatitis. However, the effect of β‐arrs in acute pancreatitis (AP) is unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate whether β‐arrs are involved in AP through activation of NF‐κBp65.

Methods

Acute pancreatitis was induced by either caerulein injection or choline‐deficient supplemented with ethionine diet (CDE). β‐arr1 wild‐type and β‐arr1 knockout mice were used in the experiment. The survival rate was calculated in the CDE model mice. Histological and western blot analyses were performed in the caerulein model. Inflammatory mediators were detected by real‐time polymerase chain reaction in the caerulein‐induced AP mice. Furthermore, AR42J and PANC‐1 cell lines were used to further study the effects of β‐arr1 in caerulein‐induced pancreatic cells.

Results

β‐Arr1 but not β‐arr2 is significantly downregulated in caerulein‐induced AP in mice. Targeted deletion of β‐arr1 notably upregulated expression of the pancreatic inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 1β as well as interleukin 6 and aggravated AP in caerulein‐induced mice. β‐Arr1 deficiency increased mortality in mice with CDE‐induced AP. Further, β‐arr1 deficiency enhanced caerulein‐induced phosphorylation of NF‐κBp65 both in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

β‐Arr1 alleviates AP via repression of NF‐κBp65 activation, and it is a potentially therapeutic target for AP.
Ribosomal biogenesis as an emerging target of neurodevelopmental pathologies
Authors: Hetman Michal , Slomnicki Lukasz P.
Published: August 2018

Development of the nervous system is carried out by complex gene expression programs that are regulated at both transcriptional and translational level. In addition, quality control mechanisms such as the TP53‐mediated apoptosis or neuronal activity‐stimulated survival ensure successful neurogenesis and formation of functional circuitries. In the nucleolus, production of ribosomes is essential for protein synthesis. In addition, it participates in chromatin organization and regulates the TP53 pathway via the ribosomal stress response. Its tight regulation is required for maintenance of genomic integrity. Mutations in several ribosomal components and trans‐acting ribosomal biogenesis factors result in neurodevelopmental syndromes that present with microcephaly, autism, intellectual deficits and/or progressive neurodegeneration. Furthermore, ribosomal biogenesis is perturbed by exogenous factors that disrupt neurodevelopment including alcohol or Zika virus. In this review, we present recent literature that argues for a role of dysregulated ribosomal biogenesis in pathogenesis of various neurodevelopmental syndromes. We also discuss potential mechanisms through which such dysregulation may lead to cellular pathologies of the developing nervous system including insufficient proliferation and/or loss of neuroprogenitors cells, apoptosis of immature neurons, altered neuronal morphogenesis, and neurodegeneration.

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Asset Allocation of Two‐Person Households under Different Longevity Expectations
Authors: Pak Tae‐Young , Babiarz Patryk
Published: August 2018

This study examines asset allocations of near‐elderly couples when spouses have different longevity expectations. Since the risk‐adjusted return on equities increases with investment horizon, a spouse who expects longer retirement period has an incentive to hold riskier portfolio. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, we show that portfolio riskiness increases with the subjective survival probability of the decision‐making spouse. As predicted by the bargaining model, portfolio outcomes are uncorrelated with the horizon of the spouse who has less bargaining power. Results also show that the extent expected horizon is incorporated into asset allocation depends on the decider's gender. The share of equities depends on the husband's expected horizon when he leads decision making but not on the wife's horizon when she has more power. These findings contradict the prediction that wife‐led households may hold more equities than do husband‐led households because of their longer lifespan.
Effects of low phosphorus intake on serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase activity and parathyroid hormone in growing dogs
Authors: Kiefer‐Hecker Britta , Bauer Alexander , Dobenecker Britta
Published: August 2018

A sufficient and balanced supply of calcium and phosphorus is important mainly for the skeletal health of dogs, especially during growth. Numerous reports and research results are quoted, which focus mainly on the effects of both deficient or excessive calcium supplies. The important role that phosphorus plays in the disruption to skeletal development is also explored. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of a low phosphorus supply on selected serum parameters of calcium and phosphorus metabolism in both medium and large breed growing dogs, alongside the effects on the apparent digestibility and retention of these minerals as well as the musculoskeletal development, which were published before. Beagle and Foxhound‐crossbred puppies (n = 53) between the age of 6 and 24 weeks were either fed a balanced (control) or a low phosphorus diet, the latter one providing about one‐third of P amount fed to the control group. In regular intervals, blood samples were obtained to measure serum levels of phosphorus, calcium, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Functional Additive Mixed Models were used to analyse these serum concentrations per group and per diet. In the puppies being fed the low phosphorus diet, a distinct decline of serum phosphate concentration was detected with a more pronounced and prolonged effect in the smaller Beagles. At the same time, serum calcium concentration altered in the opposite direction, implying that the product of calcium multiplied by phosphorus was regulated more closely than the calcium to phosphorus ratio. The PTH concentrations were reduced and ALP activity increased at certain time points during the low phosphorus feeding compared to the puppies being fed the control diet. In the latter group, an effect of time or maturation could be demonstrated in relation to the serum phosphate concentration.
A highly efficient sulfadiazine selection system for the generation of transgenic plants and algae
Authors: Tabatabaei Iman , Dal Bosco Cristina , Bednarska Marta , Ruf Stephanie , Meurer Jörg , Bock Ralph
Published: August 2018

The genetic transformation of plant cells is critically dependent on the availability of efficient selectable marker gene. Sulfonamides are herbicides that, by inhibiting the folic acid biosynthetic pathway, suppress the growth of untransformed cells. Sulfonamide resistance genes that were previously developed as selectable markers for plant transformation were based on the assumption that, in plants, the folic acid biosynthetic pathway resides in the chloroplast compartment. Consequently, the Sul resistance protein, a herbicide‐insensitive dihydropteroate synthase, was targeted to the chloroplast. Although these vectors produce transgenic plants, the transformation efficiencies are low compared to other markers. Here, we show that this inefficiency is due to the erroneous assumption that the folic acid pathway is located in chloroplasts. When the RbcS transit peptide was replaced by a transit peptide for protein import into mitochondria, the compartment where folic acid biosynthesis takes place in yeast, much higher resistance to sulfonamide and much higher transformation efficiencies are obtained, suggesting that current sul vectors are likely to function due to low‐level mistargeting of the resistance protein to mitochondria. We constructed a series of optimized transformation vectors and demonstrate that they produce transgenic events at very high frequency in both the seed plant tobacco and the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Co‐transformation experiments in tobacco revealed that sul is even superior to nptII, the currently most efficient selectable marker gene, and thus provides an attractive marker for the high‐throughput genetic transformation of plants and algae.
Worker Absenteeism: Peer Influences, Monitoring and Job Flexibility
Authors: Johansson Per , Karimi Arizo , Peter Nilsson J.
Published: August 2018

We study the presence of other-regarding preferences in the workplace by exploiting a randomized experiment that changed the monitoring of workers’ health during sick leave. We show that workers’ response to an increase in co-worker shirking, induced by the experiment, is much stronger than the response to a decrease in co-worker shirking. The asymmetric spillover effects are consistent with evidence of fairness concerns documented in laboratory experiments. Moreover, we find that the spillover effect is driven by workers with highly flexible and autonomous jobs, suggesting that co-worker monitoring may be at least as important as formal monitoring in alleviating shirking.
Full Likelihood Inference for Abundance from Continuous Time Capture–Recapture Data
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Yukun , Li Pengfei , Qin Jing
Published: August 2018

Capture–recapture experiments are widely used cost-effective sampling techniques for estimating population sizes or abundances in biology, ecology, demography, epidemiology and reliability studies. For continuous time capture–recapture data, existing estimation methods are based on conditional likelihoods and an inverse weighting estimating equation. The corresponding Wald-type confidence intervals for the abundance may have severe undercoverage, and their lower limits can be below the number of individuals captured. We propose a full likelihood inference approach by combining a parametric or partial likelihood with the empirical likelihood. Under both parametric and semiparametric intensity models, we demonstrate that the maximum likelihood estimator attains the semiparametric efficiency lower bound and that the full likelihood ratio statistic for the abundance is asymptotically χ2 with 1 degree of freedom. Simulations indicate that compared with conditional-likelihood-based methods, the maximum full likelihood estimator has a smaller mean-square error, and the likelihood ratio confidence intervals often have remarkable gains in coverage probability. We illustrate the advantages of the proposed approach by analysing illegal immigrant data for the Netherlands and Prinia flaviventris data from Hong Kong.
Formation of magnesium‐smectite during lacustrine carbonates early diagenesis: Study case of the volcanic crater lake Dziani Dzaha (Mayotte – Indian Ocean)
Authors: Milesi Vincent P. , Jézéquel Didier , Debure Mathieu , Cadeau Pierre , Guyot François , Sarazin Gérard , Claret Francis , Vennin Emmanuelle , Chaduteau Carine , Virgone Aurélien , Gaucher Eric C. , Ader Magali
Published: August 2018

The volcanic crater lake of Dziani Dzaha in Mayotte is studied to constrain the geochemical settings and the diagenetic processes at the origin of Mg‐phyllosilicates associated with carbonate rocks. The Dziani Dzaha is characterized by intense primary productivity, volcanic gases bubbling in three locations and a volcanic catchment of phonolitic/alkaline composition. The lake water has an alkalinity of ca 0·2 mol l−1 and pH values of ca 9·3. Cores of the lake sediments reaching up to one metre in length were collected and studied by means of carbon–hydrogen–nitrogen elemental analyzer, X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry and X‐ray powder diffraction. In surface sediments, the content of total organic carbon reaches up to 20 weight %. The mineral content consists of aragonite and hydromagnesite with minor amounts of alkaline feldspar and clinopyroxene from the volcanic catchment. Below 30 cm depth, X‐ray diffraction analyses of the <2 μm clay fraction indicate the presence of a saponite‐like mineral, a Mg‐rich smectite. The saponite‐like mineral accumulates at depth to reach up to ca 30 weight %, concurrent with a decrease of the contents of hydromagnesite and organic matter. Thermodynamic considerations and mineral assemblages suggest that the evolution of the sediment composition resulted from early diagenetic reactions. The formation of the saponite‐like mineral instead of Al‐free Mg‐silicates resulted from high aluminum availability, which is favoured in restricted lacustrine environments hosted in alkaline volcanic terrains commonly emplaced during early stages of continental rifting. Supersaturation of the lake water relative to saponite is especially due to high pH values, themselves derived from high primary productivity. This suggests that a genetic link may exist between saponite and the development of organic‐rich carbonate rocks, which may be fuelled by the input of CO2‐rich volcanic gases. This provides novel insights into the composition and formation of saponite‐rich deposits under a specific geodynamic context such as the Cretaceous South Atlantic carbonate reservoirs.
Sediment dispersal and organic carbon preservation in a dynamic mudstone‐dominated system, Juana Lopez Member, Mancos Shale
Authors: DeReuil Aubry A. , Birgenheier Lauren P.
Published: August 2018

A balance between primary production, rates of sediment accumulation or dilution, and biological or diagenetic destruction has long been considered a key control on organic carbon preservation in modern offshore marine environments. Additionally, current understanding of sediment transport processes in offshore environments has advanced in the last decade to include variable energy and dynamic mechanisms, requiring a re‐evaluation of ancient deposits in these systems. The Juana Lopez Member of the Mancos Shale preserves organic carbon‐rich mudstone interbedded and interlaminated with sandstone that records high energy traction flow conditions. Core, outcrop and geochemical data from the Juana Lopez Member were used to elucidate sediment provenance and processes controlling organic carbon preservation and distribution in this mudstone‐dominated system. Five dominant lithofacies with varying grain size, sedimentary fabrics, composition and grain origins were differentiated and were deposited in three main environments: the prodelta, fringe zone and low angle offshore ramp. Basal deposits of the Juana Lopez Member consist of siliceous sandstone‐dominated, heterolithic deposits with characteristic sedimentary structures (for example, current ripples and normal grading) that indicate offshore‐directed underflows, or hyperpycnites, delivered from the updip Ferron/Frontier deltaic system. In the upper portion of the Juana Lopez Member, a compositional change to biogenic carbonate‐rich sandstone and mudstone is interpreted to be as a result of increased accommodation in central Utah (USA), associated base‐level rise and shoreline‐parallel sediment transport. Non‐parallel laminated, organic carbon‐rich mudstone is preserved throughout the Juana Lopez Member. Depositional fabrics and trace element signatures suggest that these deposits are the result of dynamic conditions at the sea floor and in the oxic to suboxic water column, further challenging the notion that organic‐bearing mudstone is deposited solely through suspension settling in anoxic waters. Punctuated delivery of organic carbon laden sediment from mixed terrestrial and marine sources resulted in an event‐bed style of organic carbon deposition and preservation.
Holocene and Pleistocene fringing reef growth and the role of accommodation space and exposure to waves and currents (Bora Bora, Society Islands, French Polynesia)
Authors: Gischler Eberhard , Hudson J. Harold , Humblet Marc , Braga Juan Carlos , Schmitt Dominik , Isaack Anja , Eisenhauer Anton , Camoin Gilbert F.
Published: August 2018

Holocene fringing reef development around Bora Bora is controlled by variations in accommodation space (as a function of sea‐level and antecedent topography) and exposure to waves and currents. Subsidence ranged from 0 to 0·11 m kyr−1, and did not create significant accommodation space. A windward fringing reef started to grow 8·7 kyr bp, retrograded towards the coast over a Pleistocene fringing reef until ca 6·0 kyr bp, and then prograded towards the lagoon after sea‐level had reached its present level. The retrograding portion of the reef is dominated by corals, calcareous algae and microbialite frameworks; the prograding portion is largely detrital. The reef is up to 13·5 m thick and accreted vertically with an average rate of 3·12 m kyr−1. Lateral growth amounts to 13·3 m kyr−1. Reef corals are dominated by an inner Pocillopora assemblage and an outer Acropora assemblage. Both assemblages comprise thick crusts of coralline algae. Palaeobathymetry suggests deposition in 0 to 10 m depth. An underlying Pleistocene fringing reef formed during the sea‐level highstand of Marine Isotope Stage 5e, and is also characterized by the occurrence of corals, coralline algal crusts and microbialites. A previously investigated, leeward fringing reef started to form contemporaneously (8·78 kyr bp), but is thicker (up to 20 m) and solely prograded throughout the Holocene. A shallow Pocillopora assemblage and a deeper water Montipora assemblage were identified, but detrital facies dominate. At the Holocene reef base, only basalt was recovered. The Holocene windward–leeward differences are a consequence of less accommodation space on the eastern island side that eventually led to a more complex reef architecture. As a result of higher rates of exposure and flushing, the reef framework on the windward island side is more abundant and experienced stronger cementation. In the Pleistocene, the environmental conditions on the leeward island side were presumably unfavourable for fringing reef growth.
Phylogenetic analysis of cuckoo wasps (Hymenoptera: Chrysididae) reveals a partially artificial classification at the genus level and a species‐rich clade of bee parasitoids
Authors: Pauli Thomas , Castillo‐Cajas Ruth F. , Rosa Paolo , Kukowka Sandra , Berg Alexander , van den Berghe Eric , Fornoff Felix , Hopfenmüller Sebastian , Niehuis Manfred , Peters Ralph S. , Staab Michael , Strumia Franco , Tischendorf Stefan , Schmitt Thomas , Niehuis Oliver
Published: August 2018

Cuckoo wasps (Hymenoptera: Chrysididae) are a species‐rich family of obligate brood parasites (i.e. parasitoids and kleptoparasites) whose hosts range from sawflies, wasps and bees, to walking sticks and moths. Their brood parasitic lifestyle has led to the evolution of fascinating adaptations, including chemical mimicry of host odours by some species. Long‐term nomenclatural stability of the higher taxonomic units (e.g. genera, tribes, and subfamilies) in this family and a thorough understanding of the family's evolutionary history critically depend on a robust phylogeny of cuckoo wasps. Here we present the results from phylogenetically analysing ten nuclear‐encoded genes and one mitochondrial gene, all protein‐coding, in a total of 186 different species of cuckoo wasps representing most major cuckoo wasp lineages. The compiled data matrix comprised 4946 coding nucleotide sites and was phylogenetically analysed using classical maximum‐likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. The results of our phylogenetic analyses are mostly consistent with earlier ideas on the phylogenetic relationships of the cuckoo wasps' subfamilies and tribes, but cast doubts on the hitherto hypothesized phylogenetic position of the subfamily Amiseginae. However, the molecular data are not fully conclusive in this respect due to low branch support values at deep nodes. In contrast, our phylogenetic estimates clearly indicate that the current systematics of cuckoo wasps at the genus level is artificial. Several of the currently recognized genera are para‐ or polyphyletic (e.g.Cephaloparnops,Chrysis,Chrysura,Euchroeus,Hedychridium,Praestochrysis,Pseudochrysis,Spintharina, andSpinolia). At the same time, our data support the validity of the genusColpopyga, previously synonymized withHedychridium. We discuss possible solutions for how to resolve the current shortcomings in the systematics of cuckoo wasp genera and decided to grantProspinoliathe status of a valid genus (Prospinoliastat.n.) and transferringSpinolia theresae[du Buysson 1900] fromSpinoliatoProspinolia(Prospinolia theresaestat.restit.). We discuss the implications of our phylogenetic inferences for understanding the evolution of host associations in this group. The results of our study not only shed new light on the evolutionary history of cuckoo wasps, but also set the basis for future phylogenomic investigations on this captivating group of wasps by guiding taxonomic sampling efforts and the design of probes for target DNA enrichment approaches.
Ornithine δ‐aminotransferase is critical for floret development and seed setting through mediating nitrogen reutilization in rice
Authors: Liu Changzhen , Xue Zhihui , Tang Ding , Shen Yi , Shi Wenqing , Ren Lijun , Du Guijie , Li Yafei , Cheng Zhukuan
Published: August 2018

Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrient element that is essential for plant growth and development. Many genes have been reported to contribute to nitrogen absorption and transportation. However, genes involved in nitrogen reutilization are seldom reported. Ornithine δ‐aminotransferase (δOAT) is the enzyme connecting arginine cycling and proline cycling. Here, we found that OsOAT, the homologue of δOAT in rice, is essential for nitrogen reutilization through mediating arginase activity. In the Osoat mutant, metabolic abnormality induced by nitrogen deficiency in floret causes malformed glumes, incapable glume opening and anther indehiscence. These defects in the mutant affect the pollination process and lead to a low seed setting rate as well as abnormal seed shape. Intriguingly, urea can rescue the phenotypes of the Osoat mutant. Therefore, OsOAT is crucial for nitrogen reutilization and plays a critical role in floret development and seed setting in rice.
Tuning of SlARF10A dosage by sly‐miR160a is critical for auxin‐mediated compound leaf and flower development
Authors: Damodharan Subha , Corem Shira , Gupta Suresh Kumar , Arazi Tzahi
Published: August 2018

miR160 adjusts auxin‐mediated development by post‐transcriptional regulation of the auxin response factors ARF10/16/17. In tomato, knockdown of miR160 (sly‐miR160) suggested that it is required for auxin‐driven leaf blade outgrowth, but whether additional developmental events are adjusted by sly‐miR160 is not clear. Here, the SlMIR160 genes and the genes of its SlARFs targets were edited by CRISPR/Cas9 resulting in the isolation of loss‐of‐function mutants. In addition, hypomorphic mutants that accumulate variable reduced levels of sly‐miR160a were isolated. We found that the loss‐of‐function mutants in SlMIR160a (CR‐slmir160a‐6/7) produced only four wiry leaves, whereas the hypomorphic mutants developed leaves and flowers with graded developmental abnormalities. Phenotypic severity correlated with the upregulation of SlARF10A. Consistent with that, double mutants in SlMIR160a and SlARF10A restored leaf and flower development indicating that over‐accumulation of SlARF10A underlay the developmental abnormalities exhibited in the CR‐slmir160a mutants. Phenotype severity also correlated with the upregulation of the SHOOT MERISTEMLESS homolog Tomato Knotted 2, which in turn activated the transcription of the cytokinin biosynthesis genes SlIPT2 and SlIPT4. However, no change in Tomato Knotted 2 was detected in the absence of SlARF10A, suggesting that it is upregulated due to auxin signaling suppression by SlARF10A. Knockout of sly‐miR160a‐targeted SlARFs showed that whereas SlARF10A is indispensable for leaf blade outgrowth and floral organ patterning, the functions of SlARF16A and SlARF17 are redundant. Taken together our results suggest that sly‐miR160a promotes blade outgrowth as well as leaf and leaflet initiation and floral organ development through the quantitative regulation of its major target SlARF10A.
The Patagonian Steppe biogeographic province: Andean region or South American transition zone?
Authors: Roig‐Juñent Sergio A. , Griotti Mariana , Cecilia Domínguez Martha , Agrain Federico A. , Campos‐Soldini Paula , Carrara Rodolfo , Cheli Germán , Fernández‐Campón Florencia , Flores Gustavo E. , Katinas Liliana , Muzón Javier R. , Neita‐Moreno Jhon C. , Pessacq Pablo , San Blas German , Scheibler Erica E. , Crisci Jorge V.
Published: August 2018

America comprises three biogeographic regions: Nearctic, Neotropical and Andean. In between them, two transition zones (TZ) have been proposed: Mexican and South American. The biogeographic provinces belonging to a TZ have no predominance of biotic elements pertaining to each of its bordering regions. Regarding the Andean region, one of its provinces, the Patagonian Steppe, presents a mixture of different biogeographic elements, which are typical of transition zones. Because of this, we assessed whether the Patagonian Steppe belongs to the Andean region or whether it forms the southernmost part of the South American TZ. We gathered phylogenetic information from 177 taxa that inhabit the Patagonian Steppe and established to which biogeographic element they belong. We followed the criterion that an area can be considered as part of a region when at least 70% of its biota has the same origin, that is belongs to the same biogeographic element. In contrast, when the biota of an area presents a similar percentage of its different biogeographic elements, it could be considered as belonging to a transition zone. We found that the Patagonian Steppe presents a similar proportion of genera of Andean as well as neotropical origin. Therefore, we propose that this province should be included in the South American transition zone. Moreover, inclusion of the Patagonian Steppe as part of this TZ will make it the largest TZ of America, encompassing most of the arid lands of South America.
Novel insights into the genetic diversity of Parafavella based on mitochondrial CO1 sequences
Authors: Jung Jae‐Ho , Moon Ji Hye , Park Kyung‐Min , Kim Sanghee , Dolan John R. , Yang Eun Jin
Published: August 2018

We used both nuclear ribosomal genes (28S rDNA, 18S rDNA, 5.8S rDNA, internal transcribed spacer regions: ITS1, ITS2) and mitochondrial CO1 sequences to group or distinguish morphotypes of Parafavella, a problematic genus of tintinnid ciliates of the marine microzooplankton. We sequenced 30 single cells of Parafavella from the Bering Sea, the Greenland Sea, and the East/Japan Sea. Sequences were obtained from 4 morphotypes, typically ascribed to P. gigantea, P. greenlandica, P. jorgenseni, and P. subrotundata and from GenBank, the nuclear ribosomal genes of P. parumdentata were retrieved. Cells of the five morphotypes had identical 18S and 5.8S gene sequences. ITS1, ITS2 and 28S sequences produced two clusters: one grouping P. greenlandica and P. parumdentata and the other grouping P. jorgenseni, P. gigantea, and P. subrotundata. In contrast, CO1 nucleotide data yielded eight haplotypes clustered into five groups: one composed of P. greenlandica morphotypes, two distinct haplotypes of P. jorgenseni, and two distinct haplotypes of P. gigantea with one including P. subrotundata morphotypes. We investigated the co‐occurrence of different morphotypes in samples from sites across a large gradient of latitude and concentrations of Parafavella cells. Natural communities contained 2–6 different morphotypes. We conclude that both crypticity and polymorphism characterize Parafavella, as known for other tintinnid genera.
Ageing changes in biventricular cardiac function in male and female baboons (Papio spp.)
Authors: Kuo Anderson H. , Li Cun , Huber Hillary F. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Clarke Geoffrey D.
Published: August 2018

Key points

Life course changes in cardiovascular function in a non‐human primate have been comprehensively characterized.

Age‐related declines in normalized left ventricular stroke volume and cardiac output were found with corresponding decreases in biventricular ejection fractions and filling rates.

There were age‐related decreases in male and female baboon normalized left ventricular myocardial mass index, which declined at similar rates.

Systolic functional declines in right ventricular function were observed with age, similar to the left ventricle.

Sex differences were found in the rates and directions of right ventricular volume changes along with decreased end‐systolic right ventricular sphericity.

The results validate the baboon as an appropriate model for translational studies of cardiovascular functional decline with ageing.

Previous studies reported cardiac function declines with ageing. This study determined changes in biventricular cardiac function in a well‐characterized baboon model. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging measured key biventricular parameters in 47 baboons (22 female, age 4–23 years). ANCOVA assessed sex and age changes with P < 0.05 deemed significant. Stroke volume, cardiac output and other cardiac functional parameters were normalized to body surface area. There were similar, age‐related rates of decrease in male (M) and female (F) normalized left ventricular (LV) myocardial mass index (M: −1.2 g m−2 year−1, F: −0.9 g m−2 year−1). LV ejection fraction declined at −0.96% year−1 (r = −0.43, P = 0.002) and right ventricular (RV) ejection fraction decreased at −1.2% year−1 (r = −0.58, P < 0.001). Normalized LV stroke volume fell at −1.1 ml m−2 year−1 (r = −0.47, P = 0.001), normalized LV ejection rate at −3.8 ml s−1 m−2 year−1 (r = −0.43, P < 0.005) and normalized LV filling rate at −4.1 ml s−1 m−2 year−1 (r = −0.44, P < 0.005). Also, RV wall thickening fraction decreased with age (slope = −1% year−1, P = 0.008). RV ejection rate decreased at −3.6 ml s−1 m−2 year−1 (P = 0.002) and the normalized average RV filling rate dropped at −3.7 ml s−1 m−2 year−1 (P < 0.0001). End‐systolic RV sphericity index also dropped with age (r = −0.33, P = 0.02). Many observed changes parallel previously reported data in human and animal studies. These measured biventricular functional declines in hearts with ageing from the closest experimental primate species to man underscore the utility of the baboon model for investigating mechanisms related to heart ageing.
Evaluating active genetic options for the control of sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in the Laurentian Great Lakes
Authors: Thresher Ronald E. , Jones Michael , Drake D. Andrew R.
Published: August 2018

For more than two decades the Great Lakes Fishery Commission has sought tactics to complement, and potentially replace, the use of barriers and lampricides to control sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in the Great Lakes, but thus far without success. This paper examines the potential of modern genetic technology to suppress these invasive populations. We identified six recombinant options that appeared to be moderately to highly feasible, most of which were judged by an expert panel as extremely low or low risk, and for which research and development was broadly supported by stakeholders. The two options judged to overall best combine high efficacy and low risks were a Mendelian “sex ratio drive” and genetically modifying a prey species combined with killing or sterilizing sea lamprey that fed on it. Core issues regarding use of genetic biocontrol in the Great Lakes include technical problems associated with maintaining a sea lamprey brood line, information gaps for most options, the extent of broader public support, and the extent and nature of national and international consultation required in making decisions about control options.
Normal development of the fetal spinal canal and spinal cord at T12 on 3.0-T MRI
Authors: Miao Mingming , Lin Xiangtao , Zhang Zhonghe , Zhao Hui
Published: August 2018

Background

The studies that described the dimensions of the normal fetal thoracic spinal canal and spinal cord on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are scarce.

Purpose

To determine the normal appearance of the fetal spinal canal and spinal cord at T12 across different gestational ages using 3.0-T MRI.

Material and Methods

The spines of 43 normal human fetuses, aged 15–40 weeks, were scanned by 3.0-T MRI. All specimens were scanned using a GE 3.0-T MRI scanner. Imaging of the T12 vertebrae was performed in the coronal, sagittal, and axial planes. The anterior-posterior (AP) diameter, width, and cross-sectional area of the spinal canal and spinal cord at T12 were measured. The influence of gestational age on these parameters was investigated with a scatter plot and linear regression analysis using Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

The normal morphology of the fetal vertebra at T12 can be clearly showed by MRI; the spinal canal appeared circular, while the spinal cord was ellipsoid. Linear regression analysis showed a significant positive correlation between the AP diameter, width, and cross-sectional area of the spinal canal at T12 and gestational age.

Conclusion

Postmortem MRI is a reliable method for understanding the growth dynamics of the spinal canal and spinal cord at T12. Findings from this study would benefit the prenatal diagnosis of congenital malformations by MRI.
Time course of diffusion tensor imaging metrics in the chronic spinal cord compression rat model
Authors: Zheng Weipeng , Xu Fangtian , Chen Haoyi , Wang Ning , Xiao Wende , Liang YingJie , Wen Shifeng
Published: August 2018

Background

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) provides information about water molecule diffusion in spinal cord.

Purpose

This study was aimed to investigate DTI changes in the different stages of compressive spinal cord induced by water-absorbing material implantation.

Material and Methods

The spinal cord compression was administered over the fourth cervical vertebral level in rat. Rat models were divided into five subgroups according to compression stages: sham group, group A: three-day compression rat models; group B: 12-day compression rat models; group C: 20-day compression rat models; group D: 60-day compression rat models. DTI including fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in the compressive spinal cord were collected. The relationship between the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scores and DTI metrics was further explored.

Results

Compared with the sham group, BBB scoring of rat model showed a decreased tendency from group A ( P < 0.05) to group B ( P < 0.05). Then the motor function of rat model hindlimbs was recovered in some degree from group C ( P < 0.05) to group D ( P < 0.05) but had significant motor defects when compared with the normal level ( P < 0.05). The DTI metrics results revealed that chronic spinal cord compression resulted in lower FA value and higher ADC value at the compressive spinal cord level assessed at all four time-points ( P < 0.05). DTI metrics also showed a close correlation with motor function ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion

DTI is an optimal pre-clinical imaging tool to reflect locomotor performance and pathological status of compressive spinal cord epicenter in chronic spinal cord compression rat model.
Whole spine localizers of magnetic resonance imaging detect unexpected vertebral fractures
Authors: Kaniewska Malwina , de Beus Johannes Maria , Ahlhelm Frank , Mameghani Alexander , Eid Karim , Kubik-Huch Rahel A , Anderson Suzanne E
Published: August 2018

Background

Whole spine localizers (WS-loc) of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are performed for enumeration of the vertebrae but they can be also used for the evaluation of the spine.

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of fracture detection using WS-locs of MRI and compare the findings with standard high-resolution short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequences, and to determine whether the review of WS-locs is useful and if additional information can be gained by assessing the thoracic spine section of the WS-locs.

Material and Methods

A total of 298 magnetic resonance (MR) examinations of the lumbar spine with WS-locs were evaluated. Two independent readers reviewed the images. In case of fracture detection, further characterization of the fracture was performed. To assess inter-reader agreement, unweighted Cohen’s kappa with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and Phi coefficients were calculated.

Results

The study sample included 187 female and 111 male patients (age range = 65–94 years; median age = 75.0 years). The WS-locs detected 42 fractures of the lumbar spine and 36 of the thoracic spine. Inter-reader agreement for fracture detection in the lumbar and thoracic spine was strong (K = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.78–0.95, Phi = 0.87, and K = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.79–0.96, Phi = 0.88, respectively).

Conclusion

WS-locs from MR examinations of the lumbar spine provide a good diagnostic tool for the detection and evaluation of unsuspected vertebral fractures. WS-locs show strong inter-reader agreement for fracture detection in the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of erenumab for the preventive treatment of episodic and chronic migraine: Results from the US societal and payer perspectives
Authors: Sussman Matthew , Benner Jennifer , Neumann Peter , Menzin Joseph
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To assess the cost-effectiveness of erenumab 140 mg (“erenumab”) for the prophylactic treatment of episodic migraine and chronic migraine.

Study design

A hybrid Monte Carlo patient simulation and Markov cohort model was constructed to compare erenumab to no preventive treatment or onabotulinumtoxinA among adult ( ≥ 18 years) patients with episodic migraine and chronic migraine who failed prior preventive therapy from the US societal and payer perspectives.

Methods

Patients entered the model one at a time and were assigned to a post-treatment monthly migraine day category based on baseline monthly migraine days and treatment effect. Using monthly cycles, patients were followed for 2 years and accumulated costs and utilities associated with their post-treatment monthly migraine days. The primary outcome included the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio presented as cost per quality-adjusted life year gained.

Results

With an annual drug price of erenumab of $6900, treatment with erenumab in the societal perspective ranges from a dominant strategy versus no preventive treatment among chronic migraine patients to an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $122,167 versus no preventive treatment among episodic migraine patients. When excluding indirect costs (i.e. payer perspective), the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios are cost-effective among chronic migraine patients ($23,079 and $65,720 versus no preventive treatment and onabotulinumtoxinA, respectively), but not among episodic migraine patients ($180,012 versus no preventive treatment). Model results were sensitive to changes in monthly migraine days, health utilities, and treatment costs.

Conclusion

The use of erenumab may be a cost-effective approach to preventing monthly migraine days among patients with chronic migraine versus onabotulinumtoxinA and no preventive treatment in the societal and payer perspectives, but is less likely to offer good value for money for those with episodic migraine, unless lost productivity costs are considered.
An Agent-Based Simulation Model for Parking Variable Message Sign Location Problem
Authors: Ni Xun-You , Sun Daniel (Jian)
Published: August 2018

Parking spaces are often in short supply in urban areas. To balance the supply and demand and alleviate the overconsumption of public spaces, parking variable message signs (parking VMSs) are commonly used to release information on space availability to drivers en route. The aim of this study was to find the optimal positions for parking VMSs. To achieve the objective, we first define the major decision point (MDP) as the intersection where the newly generated path deviates from the previous one. When informed that the target parking lot is fully occupied, the driver would divert to an alternative one. The route to the alternative parking lot is indicated as the newly generated path, while the one leading to the original parking lot is denoted as the previous one. Quantitatively, MDPs with the highest frequency of occurrence are selected as the candidate positions. Then, an agent-based simulation is proposed to identify the MDPs induced by changes of space availability and the selection of routes. The results indicate that the proposed location algorithm slightly outperforms the scheme with the completed parking information in terms of average travel time and average travel distance. The algorithm can be further integrated into a simulation package, which may assist in the design and operation of an urban parking guidance and information system.