bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Horizontal transfer and finalization of a reliable detection method for the olive fruit fly endosymbiont,CandidatusErwinia dacicolax
Authors: Bigiotti Gaia , Pastorelli Roberta , Guidi Roberto , Belcari Antonio , Sacchetti Patrizia
Published: May 2018

Background

The olive fly,Bactrocera oleae, is the most important insect pest in olive production, causing economic damage to olive crops worldwide. In addition to extensive research onB. oleaecontrol methods, scientists have devoted much effort in the last century to understanding olive fly endosymbiosis with a bacterium eventually identified asCandidatusErwinia dacicola. This bacterium plays a relevant role in olive fly fitness. It is vertically transmitted, and it benefits both larvae and adults in wild populations; however, the endosymbiont is not present in lab colonies, probably due to the antibiotics and preservatives required for the preparation of artificial diets. Endosymbiont transfer from wildB. oleaepopulations to laboratory-reared ones allows olive fly mass-rearing, thus producing more competitive flies for future Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) applications.

Results

We tested the hypothesis thatCa.E. dacicola might be transmitted from wild, naturally symbiotic adults to laboratory-reared flies. Several trials have been performed with different contamination sources ofCa.E. dacicola, such as ripe olives and gelled water contaminated by wild flies, wax domes containing eggs laid by wild females, cages dirtied by faeces dropped by wild flies and matings between lab and wild adults. PCR-DGGE, performed with the primer set 63F-GC/518R, demonstrated that the transfer of the endosymbiont from wild flies to lab-reared ones occurred only in the case of cohabitation.

Conclusions

Cohabitation of symbiotic wild flies and non-symbiotic lab flies allows the transfer ofCa.E. dacicola through adults. Moreover, PCR-DGGE performed with the primer set 63F-GC/518R was shown to be a consistent method for screeningCa.E. dacicola, also showing the potential to distinguish between the two haplotypes (htA and htB). This study represents the first successful attempt at horizontal transfer ofCa.E. dacicola and the first step in acquiring a better understanding of the endosymbiont physiology and its relationship with the olive fly. Our research also represents a starting point for the development of a laboratory symbiotic olive fly colony, improving perspectives for future applications of the Sterile Insect Technique.
Ecology Shapes Microbial Immune Strategy: Temperature and Oxygen as Determinants of the Incidence of CRISPR Adaptive Immunity
Authors: Weissman Jake L. , Laljani Rohan M. R. , Fagan William F. , Johnson Philip L. F.
Published: May 2018

Bacteria and archaea are locked in a near-constant battle with their viral pathogens. Despite previous mechanistic characterization of numerous prokaryotic defense strategies, the underlying ecological drivers of different strategies remain largely unknown and predicting which species will take which strategies remains a challenge. Here, we focus on the CRISPR immune strategy and develop a phylogenetically-corrected machine learning approach to build a predictive model of CRISPR incidence using data on over 100 traits across over 2600 species. We discover a strong but hitherto-unknown negative interaction between CRISPR and aerobicity, which we hypothesize may result from interference between CRISPR associated proteins and non-homologous end-joining DNA repair due to oxidative stress. Our predictive model also quantitatively confirms previous observations of an association between CRISPR and temperature. Finally, we contrast the environmental associations of different CRISPR system types (I, II, III) and restriction modification systems, all of which act as intracellular immune systems.
MARTINI bead form factors for the analysis of time-resolved X-ray scattering of proteins. Erratum
Authors: Niebling Stephan , Björling Alexander , Westenhoff Sebastian
Published: May 2018

A typographical error in the article by Niebling, Björling & Westenhoff [J. Appl. Cryst. (2014), 47, 1190–1198] is corrected.
Crystal structure of (–)-(R,E)-3-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-5-[(4S,5R)-5-hydroxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]-N,N-dimethylpent-4-enamide
Authors: Oishi Takeshi , Ishii Koki , Ishibashi Mizuki , Sato Takaaki , Chida Noritaka
Published: May 2018

In the title compound, C20H27NO6, the amide moiety is essentially planar, with a maximum deviation of 0.073 (3) Å, and one of theN-methyl groups shows rotational disorder. The five-membered 1,3-dioxolane ring adopts an envelope form, with the C atom bonded to the olefin side chain as the flap, which deviates from the mean plane through the other four atoms by 0.564 (7) Å. The 1,3-dioxole ring fused to the benzene ring adopts a flattened envelope form, with the C atom between the two O atoms as the flap, which deviates from the mean plane through the other four atoms by 0.215 (7) Å. The C—C=C—C olefin moiety is essentially planar and makes a dihedral angle of 87.1 (3)° with the benzene ring. An intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond supports the molecular conformation, enclosing anS(11) graph-set motif. In the crystal, intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonding links the molecules into a tape running along thebaxis. Furthermore, other weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and a C—H...π interaction connect the tapes into a sheet structure parallel to (100).
Leadership styles and their relationship with TQM focus for Indian firms
Authors: Kumar Vimal , Sharma R.R.K.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine leadership styles and their impact on TQM focus within Indian firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical data for this study were drawn from a survey of 111 firms in India to examine the validity and reliability of the independent constructs (leadership styles: transformational, servant, adaptive, rational and kinesthetic); and two dependent constructs (TQM focus: continuous improvement and innovation). The data were analyzed employing correlation and multiple regression analysis to identify the influence of leadership styles on TQM focus.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that six of the nine hypotheses have a significant and positive relationship with TQM focus; one hypothesis is partial while rest two hypotheses are not associated with TQM focus. It is also found that leadership styles are more inclined to continuous improvement and perceived as dominant TQM practices than innovation.

Research limitations/implications

This study used only two major variables, continuous improvement and innovation, as the outcome of TQM focus, but the outcomes are not limited. TQM focus is also related to other variables such as customer focus, product quality, employee involvement, benchmarking, etc. Future research should be extended by using other variables as the outcome of TQM focus.

Originality/value

The results can be beneficial for the current organization’s leaders to achieve appropriate leadership styles for effective and TQM focus. Moreover, this paper also attempts to inspire researchers to include the TQM focus in studying the effect of the leaders on TQM focus while implementing it effectively in the organizations.
Production of ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) by Lactobacillus otakiensis and other Lactobacillus sp. isolated from traditional Pico cheese
Authors: Ribeiro Susana C , Domingos‐Lopes Marina F P , Stanton Catherine , Ross R Paul , Silva Célia CG
Published: May 2018

Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter with several physiological functions. Fifty‐seven strains isolated from an Azorean cheese were tested for their capacity to convert monosodium glutamate to GABA. Lactobacillus otakiensis, strain L3C1R1, along with three Lactobacillus paracasei and three Lactobacillus plantarum strains exhibited the highest GABA‐producing capacity (>300 mg/L). None of the strains from the genera Lactococcus, Leuconostoc and Enterococcus were GABA producers. Lactobacillus plantarum (strain L2A21R1) produced the highest amount of GABA (936.8 mg/L). Technological properties were also assessed, confirming the potential of the GABA‐producing strains as adjunct cultures for the development of fermented foods with health‐promoting properties.
Loss of sirtuin 1 and mitofusin 2 contributes to enhanced ischemia/reperfusion injury in aged livers
Authors: Chun Sung Kook , Lee Sooyeon , Flores‐Toro Joseph , U Rebecca Y. , Yang Ming‐Jim , Go Kristina L. , Biel Thomas G. , Miney Catherine E. , Pierre Louis Schiley , Law Brian K. , Law Mary E. , Thomas Elizabeth M. , Behrns Kevin E. , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan , Kim Jae‐Sung
Published: May 2018

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a causative factor contributing to morbidity and mortality during liver resection and transplantation. Livers from elderly patients have a poorer recovery from these surgeries, indicating reduced reparative capacity with aging. Mechanisms underlying this age‐mediated hypersensitivity to I/R injury remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated how sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and mitofusin 2 (MFN2) are affected by I/R in aged livers. Young (3 months) and old (23–26 months) male C57/BL6 mice were subjected to hepatic I/R in vivo. Primary hepatocytes isolated from each age group were also exposed to simulated in vitro I/R. Biochemical, genetic, and imaging analyses were performed to assess cell death, autophagy flux, mitophagy, and mitochondrial function. Compared to young mice, old livers showed accelerated liver injury following mild I/R. Reperfusion of old hepatocytes also showed necrosis, accompanied with defective autophagy, onset of the mitochondrial permeability transition, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Biochemical analysis indicated a near‐complete loss of both SIRT1 and MFN2 after I/R in old hepatocytes, which did not occur in young cells. Overexpression of either SIRT1 or MFN2 alone in old hepatocytes failed to mitigate I/R injury, while co‐overexpression of both proteins promoted autophagy and prevented mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death after reperfusion. Genetic approaches with deletion and point mutants revealed that SIRT1 deacetylated K655 and K662 residues in the C‐terminus of MFN2, leading to autophagy activation. The SIRT1‐MFN2 axis is pivotal during I/R recovery and may be a novel therapeutic target to reduce I/R injury in aged livers.
Genome‐wide association analysis reveals novel loci for hypoxia adaptability in Tibetan chicken
Authors: Jiang S. Y. , Xu H. Y. , Shen Z. N. , Zhao C. J. , Wu C.
Published: May 2018

The Tibetan chicken (TBC), an indigenous chicken breed of the Tibetan Plateau, has adapted to its hypoxic, high‐altitude environment over hundreds of years. The objective of this study was to identify the polymorphisms and genes associated with adaptation to hypoxia in this chicken breed. In the present study, samples were collected during days 18–21 of the incubation period from both surviving chicks and dead embryos, all of which were hatched under hypoxic conditions. A genome‐wide association study was conducted using the Illumina iSelect 60K SNP array with a case–control design, in which the case group consisted of the dead chicken embryos (n = 54) and controls were the surviving chicks (n = 82). Four significant SNPs were detected at the genome‐wide level (P < 0.05), and the results indicated that fork head box G1 (FOXG1) was the main candidate gene. The lead SNP NC_006092.4:g.33368893T>C was confirmed with a polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of 122 cases and 212 controls. A chi‐square test showed a significant association between NC_006092.4:g.33368893T>C and hatchability under hypoxic conditions (P < 0.01). Our results revealed novel polymorphisms and a candidate gene associated with hypoxic adaptation, facilitating further study in this field.
Morphology and quantification of sheep pineal glands at pre‐pubertal, pubertal and post‐pubertal periods
Authors: Bolat Durmuş , Kürüm Aytül , Canpolat Sıla
Published: May 2018

The pineal gland is a neuroendocrine organ associated with photoperiodic regulation in mammals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pineal gland at the pre‐pubertal, pubertal and post‐pubertal periods by means of morphology and stereology. The study examined at total of 24 ovine pineal glands collected from healthy female Akkaraman breed. Thick sections (40 μm) were cut and treated with synaptophysin. Following each thick section, six consecutive sections at a thickness of 5 μm were cut. Each thin section was stained with one of the following dyes: Crossman’s modified triple dye, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), melatonin marker, periodic acid–Schiff, Von Kossa and AgNOR. The pineal gland volume was measured using Cavalieri’s method. The optical fractionator was used to estimate the total number of pinealocytes. The percentage of parenchyma and connective tissue and degree of vascularization were estimated by the area fraction fractionator method. The pineal gland volumes in the pre‐pubertal, pubertal and post‐pubertal groups were 7.53 ± 1.715 mm3, 11.20 ± 1.336 mm3 and 17.75 ± 1.188 mm3, respectively (p < .5). The number of pinealocytes in the pre‐pubertal, pubertal and post‐pubertal groups was 3,244,000 ± 228,076, 4,438,000 ± 243,610, 7,381,766 ± 406,223, respectively (p < .05). The glands of the post‐pubertal group contained the highest amount of connective tissue (11.49 ± 2.103%; p < .5) and the largest GFAP staining area (p < .05). The melatonin staining density was the highest in the pubertal group. The density of lipofuscin staining was higher in the pubertal and post‐pubertal groups.
Analysis of type 2 diabetes and obesity genetic variants in Mexican Pima Indians: Marked allelic differentiation among Amerindians at HLA
Authors: Hsueh Wen‐Chi , Bennett Peter H , Esparza‐Romero Julian , Urquidez‐Romero Rene , Valencia Mauro E , Ravussin Eric , Williams Robert C , Knowler William C , Baier Leslie J , Schulz Leslie O , Hanson Robert L
Published: May 2018

Prevalence of diabetes and obesity in Mexican Pima Indians is low, while prevalence in US Pima Indians is high. Although lifestyle likely accounts for much of the difference, the role of genetic factors is not well explored. To examine this, we genotyped 359 single nucleotide polymorphisms, including established type 2 diabetes and obesity variants from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) and 96 random markers, in 342 Mexican Pimas. A multimarker risk score of obesity variants was associated with body mass index (BMI; β = 0.81 kg/m2 per SD, P = 0.0066). The mean value of the score was lower in Mexican Pimas than in US Pimas (P = 4.3 × 10−11), and differences in allele frequencies at established loci could account for approximately 7% of the population difference in BMI; however, the difference in risk scores was consistent with evolutionary neutrality given genetic distance. To identify loci potentially under recent natural selection, allele frequencies at 283 variants were compared between US and Mexican Pimas, accounting for genetic distance. The largest differences were seen at HLA markers (e.g., rs9271720, difference = 0.75, P = 8.7 × 10–9); genetic distances at HLA were greater than at random markers (P = 1.6 × 10–46). Analyses of GWAS data in 937 US Pimas also showed sharing of alleles identical by descent at HLA that exceeds its genomic expectation (P = 7.0 × 10–10). These results suggest that, in addition to the widely recognized balancing selection at HLA, recent directional selection may also occur, resulting in marked allelic differentiation between closely related populations.
Clinical and molecular characterization of Indian patients with fructose‐1, 6‐bisphosphatase deficiency: Identification of a frequent variant (E281K)
Authors: Bhai Pratibha , Bijarnia‐Mahay Sunita , Puri Ratna D. , Saxena Renu , Gupta Deepti , Kotecha Udhaya , Sachdev Anil , Gupta Dhiren , Vyas Vyomesh , Agarwal Divya , Jain Vivek , Bansal Rajeev K. , Kumar Tapisha G. , Verma Ishwar Chander
Published: May 2018

Fructose‐1, 6‐bisphosphatase deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder of gluconeogenesis caused by genetic defect in the FBP1 gene. It is characterized by episodic, often life‐threatening metabolic acidosis, liver dysfunction, and hyperlactatemia. Without a high index of suspicion, it may remain undiagnosed with devastating consequences. Accurate diagnosis can be achieved either by enzyme assay or gene studies. Enzyme assay requires a liver biopsy and is tedious, invasive, expensive, and not easily available. Therefore, genetic testing is the most appropriate method to confirm the diagnosis. Molecular studies were performed on 18 suspected cases presenting with episodic symptoms. Seven different pathogenic variants were identified. Two common variants were noted in two subpopulations from the Indian subcontinent; p.Glu281Lys (E281K) occurred most frequently (in 10 patients) followed by p.Arg158Trp (R158W, in 4 patients). Molecular analysis confirmed the diagnosis and helped in managing these patients by providing appropriate genetic counseling. In conclusion, genetic studies identified two common variants in the Indian subcontinent, thus simplifying the diagnostic algorithm in this treatable disorder.
Glucocorticoid signaling regulates cell invasion and migration in the human first‐trimester trophoblast cell line Sw.71
Authors: Kisanga Edwina P. , Tang Zhonghua , Guller Seth , Whirledge Shannon
Published: May 2018

Problem

The development of the placenta and its functions are sensitive to infection and stress, which can activate the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis. Adrenally produced glucocorticoids are the body's primary mediators of the inflammatory and stress response. Although the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is expressed in all human villous trophoblast tissue, the effect of glucocorticoids on placentation is not well understood.

Method of study

Using microarray analysis, we identified the glucocorticoid‐regulated transcriptional profile in the immortalized first‐trimester extravillous trophoblast cell line Swan.71 (Sw.71).

Results

The synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone significantly regulated 3829 genes, including genes associated with cell movement, growth, and survival. SERPINE1, an inhibitor of trophoblast invasion, was induced by glucocorticoids in Sw.71 cells and is associated with the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Glucocorticoid treatment induced recruitment of activated polymerase II and GR to the SERPINE1 promoter, suggesting a mechanism for transcriptional regulation. Functionally, glucocorticoid treatment inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that glucocorticoids regulate extravillous trophoblast functions by altering the gene expression profile, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of reproductive disorders such as preeclampsia and IUGR.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Characteristics and Outcomes in Adult Patients With Down Syndrome
Authors: Duffy Vicky , Gomez Daniel , Rycus Peter , Rivera Brian , Santoro Stephanie L , Backes Carl H , Cua Clifford L
Published: May 2018

Patients with Down syndrome (DS) may have multiple medical issues that place them at risk for requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in pediatric patients with Down syndrome has been described, but minimal data exist for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use in adults with Down syndrome. The goal of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics and to determine if there were differences between adult extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients with Down syndrome that were alive (aDS) versus those that died (dDS) prior to hospital discharge. Patients with Down syndrome that were 18 years and older registered in the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry from 1983 to 2016 were analyzed. Demographics and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation characteristics were recorded. A total of 21 adults with Down syndrome were identified. Incidence of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults with Down syndrome was 0.88 per 1000 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation procedures. Hospital mortality was 57.1% (12/21). There were no significant differences between aDS versus dDS for age (24.9 ± 4.8 vs. 28.1 ± 10.2 years), weight (90.7 ± 13.0 vs. 79.1 ± 27.0 kg), gender (4 males vs. 8 males), initial pH (7.18 ± 0.19 vs. 7.27 ± 0.16), or initial pO2 (51.7 ± 13.9 vs. 45.4 ± 19.9), respectively. There were no significant differences between aDS versus dDS in duration of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation run (239 ± 159 h vs. 455 ± 570 h, respectively), ventilator or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mode, and nitric oxide use. aDS had fewer incidences of mechanical and neurologic complications (41.7% vs. 0.0%, P < 0.05) versus dDS. There were no other significant differences in complication rates between the two groups. Use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the adult population with Down syndrome is significantly less compared to the pediatric population with Down syndrome. Baseline characteristics are not predictive of overall survival. There were minimal differences noted between aDS versus dDS during their extracorporeal membrane oxygenation course. Mortality rates are similar to non‐Down syndrome patients placed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may be a reasonable option for adult patients with Down syndrome requiring intensive care.
Programmed necrosis in cardiomyocytes: mitochondria, death receptors and beyond
Authors: Zhang Junxia , Liu Dairu , Zhang Mao , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2018

Excessive death of cardiac myocytes leads to many cardiac diseases, including myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, heart failure and sudden cardiac death. For the last several decades, most work on cell death has focused on apoptosis, which is generally considered as the only form of regulated cell death, whereas necrosis has been regarded to be an unregulated process. Recent findings reveal that necrosis also occurs in a regulated manner and that it is closely related to the physiology and pathophysiology of many organs, including the heart. The recognition of necrosis as a regulated process mandates a re‐examination of cell death in the heart together with the mechanisms and therapy of cardiac diseases. In this study, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of the programmed necrosis of cardiomyocytes, that is, the intrinsic (mitochondrial) and extrinsic (death receptor) pathways. Furthermore, the role of this programmed necrosis in various heart diseases is also delineated. Finally, we describe the currently known pharmacological inhibitors of several of the key regulatory molecules of regulated cell necrosis and the opportunities for their therapeutic use in cardiac disease. We intend to systemically summarize the recent progresses in the regulation and pathological significance of programmed cardiomyocyte necrosis along with its potential therapeutic applications to cardiac diseases.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Mitochondrial Pharmacology: Featured Mechanisms and Approaches for Therapy Translation. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.22/issuetoc
Human monocyte transcriptional profiling identifies IL‐18 receptor accessory protein and lactoferrin as novel immune targets in hypertension
Authors: Alexander Matthew R , Norlander Allison E , Elijovich Fernando , Atreya Ravi V , Gaye Amadou , Gnecco Juan S , Laffer Cheryl L , Galindo Cristi L , Madhur Meena S
Published: May 2018

Background and Purpose

Monocytes play a critical role in hypertension. The purpose of our study was to use an unbiased approach to determine whether hypertensive individuals on conventional therapy exhibit an altered monocyte gene expression profile and to perform validation studies of selected genes to identify novel therapeutic targets for hypertension.

Experimental Approach

Next generation RNA sequencing identified differentially expressed genes in a small discovery cohort of normotensive and hypertensive individuals. Several of these genes were further investigated for association with hypertension in multiple validation cohorts using qRT‐PCR, regression analysis, phenome‐wide association study and case–control analysis of a missense polymorphism.

Key Results

We identified 60 genes that were significantly differentially expressed in hypertensive monocytes, many of which are related to IL‐1β. Uni‐ and multivariate regression analyses of the expression of these genes with mean arterial pressure (MAP) revealed four genes that significantly correlated with MAP in normotensive and/or hypertensive individuals. Of these, lactoferrin (LTF), peptidoglycan recognition protein 1 and IL‐18 receptor accessory protein (IL18RAP) remained significantly elevated in peripheral monocytes of hypertensive individuals in a separate validation cohort. Interestingly, IL18RAP expression associated with MAP in a cohort of African Americans. Furthermore, homozygosity for a missense single nucleotide polymorphism in LTF that decreases antimicrobial function and increases protein levels (rs1126478) was over‐represented in patients with hypertension relative to controls (odds ratio 1.16).

Conclusions and Implications

These data demonstrate that monocytes exhibit enhanced pro‐inflammatory gene expression in hypertensive individuals and identify IL18RAP and LTF as potential novel mediators of human hypertension.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Immune Targets in Hypertension. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.12/issuetoc
Retrotransposable genetic elements causing neutrophil defects
Authors: Roos Dirk , de Boer Martin
Published: May 2018

Background

Retrotransposable elements are stretches of DNA that encode proteins with the inherent ability to insert their own RNA or another RNA by reverse transcriptase as DNA into a new genomic location. In humans, the only autonomous retrotransposable elements are members of the Long INterspersed Element‐1 (LINE‐1) family. LINE‐1s may cause gene inactivation and human disease.

Design

We present a brief summary of the published knowledge about LINE‐1s in humans and the RNAs that these elements can transpose, and we focus on the effect of LINE‐1‐mediated retrotransposition on human neutrophil function.

Results

Retrotransposons can cause genetic disease by two primary mechanisms: (1) insertional mutagenesis and (2) nonallelic homologous recombination. The only known neutrophil function affected by retrotransposition is that of NADPH oxidase activity. Four patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) are known with LINE‐1‐mediated insertional inactivation of CYBB, the gene that encodes the gp91phox component of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase. In addition, 5 CGD patients had a large deletion in the NCF2 gene, encoding the p67phox component, and 2 CGD patients had a similar deletion in NCF1, encoding p47phox. These deletions were caused by nonallelic homologous recombination between 2 Alu elements at the borders of each deletion. Alu elements have spread throughout the human genome by LINE‐1 retrotransposition.

Conclusions

Probably, the occurrence of LINE‐1‐mediated insertions causing autosomal CGD has been underestimated. It might be worthwhile to reinvestigate the DNA from autosomal CGD patients with missplice mutations and large deletions for indications of LINE‐1‐mediated insertions.
Nutrient transfer supports a beneficial relationship between the canopy ant,Azteca trigona, and its host tree
Authors: Lucas Jane M. , Clay Natalie A. , Kaspari Michael
Published: May 2018

1. Energy fluxes between ants and plants have been a focal point for documenting mutualistic behaviour. Plants can provide resources to ants through the production of extrafloral nectaries. In exchange, ants can fertilise plants through their nutrient‐ and microbe‐rich refuse.

2. Here, we test a potential facultative mutualism between the carton‐nesting canopy ant,Azteca trigona, and their host trees. Through observational and experimental approaches, this study documents how nutrient transfer provides a basis for this beneficial ant–plant relationship.

3. In a greenhouse experiment, fertilisation with sterilised refuse (i.e. nutrients only) increased seedling growth three‐fold, while the refuse with its natural microbial community increased growth 11‐fold.

4. Total root density was doubled in refuse piles compared with the surrounding areain situ. On average, refuse provides host trees and the surrounding plant community with access to a > 800% increase in N, P and K relative to leaf litter.

5.Azteca trigonapreferentially nests in trees with extrafloral nectaries and on large, longer‐lived tree species.

6. Given the nutrient‐poor nature of the Neotropics, host trees probably experience significant benefits from refuse fertilisation. Conversely,A. trigonabenefit from long‐term stable structural support for nests and access to nutrient‐rich extrafloral nectaries. Without clear costs to eitherA. trigonaor host trees, it is proposed that these positive interactions are preliminary evidence of a facultative mutualism.
Temperature response of permafrost soil carbon is attenuated by mineral protection
Authors: Gentsch Norman , Wild Birgit , Mikutta Robert , Čapek Petr , Diáková Katka , Schrumpf Marion , Turner Stephanie , Minnich Cynthia , Schaarschmidt Frank , Shibistova Olga , Schnecker Jörg , Urich Tim , Gittel Antje , Šantrůčková Hana , Bárta Jiři , Lashchinskiy Nikolay , Fuß Roland , Richter Andreas , Guggenberger Georg
Published: May 2018

Climate change in Arctic ecosystems fosters permafrost thaw and makes massive amounts of ancient soil organic carbon (OC) available to microbial breakdown. However, fractions of the organic matter (OM) may be protected from rapid decomposition by their association with minerals. Little is known about the effects of mineral‐organic associations (MOA) on the microbial accessibility ofOMin permafrost soils and it is not clear which factors control its temperature sensitivity. In order to investigate if and how permafrost soilOCturnover is affected by mineral controls, the heavy fraction (HF) representing mostlyMOAwas obtained by density fractionation from 27 permafrost soil profiles of the Siberian Arctic. In parallel laboratory incubations, the unfractionated soils (bulk) and theirHFwere comparatively incubated for 175 days at 5 and 15°C. TheHFwas equivalent to 70 ± 9% of the bulkCO2respiration as compared to a share of 63 ± 1% of bulkOCthat was stored in theHF. Significant reduction ofOCmineralization was found in all treatments with increasingOCcontent of theHF(HF‐OC), clay‐size minerals and Fe or Al oxyhydroxides. Temperature sensitivity (Q10) decreased with increasing soil depth from 2.4 to 1.4 in the bulk soil and from 2.9 to 1.5 in theHF. A concurrent increase in the metal‐to‐HF‐OCratios with soil depth suggests a stronger bonding ofOMto minerals in the subsoil. There, the younger14C signature inCO2than that of theOCindicates a preferential decomposition of the more recentOMand the existence of aMOAfraction with limited access ofOMto decomposers. These results indicate strong mineral controls on the decomposability ofOMafter permafrost thaw and on its temperature sensitivity. Thus, we here provide evidence thatOMtemperature sensitivity can be attenuated byMOAin permafrost soils.
Release of TGF‐β1 into root canals with various final irrigants in regenerative endodontics: an in vitro analysis
Authors: Chae Y. , Yang M. , Kim J.
Published: May 2018

Aim

To investigate the release of growth factors into the root canal space after various final irrigants during regenerative endodontic procedures. The residual cytotoxic effect of final irrigants on stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) was also examined.

Methodology

To measure the release of TGF‐β1, root segments (8 mm long) were irrigated with 1.5% NaOCl followed by 20 mL of final irrigants; Saline, 17% EDTA, 10% citric acid, 10% or 37% phosphoric acid. Specimens were then immersed into culture medium for 24 h and the supernatants were collected to measure TGF‐β1 by ELISA. For the cytotoxicity of residual final irrigants, dentine chips (5 × 5 × 1 mm) treated with irrigants as above were placed in the upper chamber of transwell system. Stem cells from the apical papilla were incubated indirectly in the lower chamber for 24 h and MTS assay was performed after 24 h. The surfaces of irrigated root canals were examined for smear layer with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Log transformation was performed for ELISA data to compare different groups (one‐way ANOVA, α = 0.05).

Results

Ten percent citric acid released the greatest amount of TGF‐β1 amongst all groups, which was significantly different to 17% EDTA (P < 0.01). All dentine chips irrigated with the irrigants showed no significant difference of cytotoxicity on SCAP compared to nonirrigated dentine (P > 0.05). SEM revealed completely open dentinal tubules in 10% citric acid, whereas 17% EDTA was associated with partially open dentinal tubules.

Conclusions

Ten percent citric acid was effective as a final irrigant for releasing TGF‐β1 with good biocompatibility in regenerative endodontics.
MEFF: The database of MEditerranean Flood Fatalities (1980 to 2015)
Authors: Petrucci O. , Papagiannaki K. , Aceto L. , Boissier L. , Kotroni V. , Grimalt M. , Llasat M.C. , Llasat‐Botija M. , Rosselló J. , Pasqua A.A. , Vinet F.
Published: May 2018

In the Mediterranean environment, floods pose a significant threat to people, in spite of the noteworthy improvements in forecasting, emergency management, and defensive works. This paper examines flood mortality in the Mediterranean environment based on a 36‐year long database (1980–2015) that was built in five study areas using documentary sources. Information on fatal accidents was disaggregated in database fields describing victim's profile and the circumstances of the accidents. Data show an increasing trend of flood fatalities during the study period. Accidents mainly occurred outdoor: the majority of the 458 fatalities were males, mainly aged between 30 and 49 years, and residents in the area of the accident. In the majority of cases, people were dragged by water/mud when travelling by car. Some cases of hazardous behaviours, such as fording rivers or trying to save belongings, were also detected. The cause of death was drowning in the majority of cases, and heart attack in a few cases it was. The results of the research can be proficiently used in information campaigns aiming to increase people safety during future floods.
Young adults' knowledge and attitudes towards cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Trejo Ronald , Cross Wendy , Stephenson John , Edward Karen‐leigh
Published: May 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore young adults' knowledge and attitudes of cardiovascular disease and its risk factors.

Background

Cardiovascular disease morbidity is rising and mortality is declining among young adults. However, the knowledge of cardiovascular disease by young adults is not well known.

Design

A systematic review with meta‐analysis was used.

Methods

The databases of CINHAL, MEDLINE Complete, PsycINFO and Psycarticles were searched for all studies published before June 2016. Search terms included cardiovascular disease, young adult, attitude and knowledge. Papers were included if they were published in English and reported quantitative research with a study population between the ages of 18–34 years, with a focus on knowledge and attitudes to cardiovascular disease. Meta‐analyses were conducted to assess the extent of knowledge of risk factors on heart disease.

Results

Nine risk factors for cardiovascular disease were identified by the respondents; smoking (synthesised estimate of 55% of respondents identifying as a risk factor, 95% confidence interval of synthesised estimate 45%–65%); obesity (27%, 95% CI, 26%–29%); high blood cholesterol (33%, 95% CI, 12%–54%); high blood pressure (25%, 95% CI, 18%–32%); genetic factors (26%, 95% CI, 23%–29%); physical inactivity (39%, 95% CI, 30%–47%); stress (49%, 95% CI, 48%–51%); advancing age (10%, 95% CI, 8%–12%) and diet (55%, 95% CI, 54%–56%).

Conclusion

Young adults demonstrate limited knowledge and poor attitudes regarding cardiovascular disease and its risk factors. The finding of this review demonstrates that there is an urgent need to build knowledge of cardiovascular risk identification in this population group.

Relevance to clinical practice

Increasing cardiovascular disease in young adults will put stress in the healthcare system financially and economically. There is a need of awareness of cardiovascular disease in this population group.
A broader understanding of care managers’ attitudes of advance care planning: A concurrent nested design
Authors: Aultman Julie , Baughman Kristin R , Ludwick Ruth
Published: May 2018

Aims and Objectives

To examine barriers of advance care planning (ACP) experienced by care managers (CMs) through a mixed methods approach. A concurrent nested design was used to acquire a deeper understanding of ACP and to identify nuances between quantitative and qualitative data.

Background

Past quantitative studies on providers have identified barriers related to time, culture, knowledge, responsibility and availability of legal documents. These barriers, and accompanying attitudes and feelings, have been taken at face value without rich qualitative data to identify under what conditions and to what extent a barrier impacts care.

Design

A two‐part multisite, mixed methods study was conducted using surveys and focus groups.

Methods

Surveys were completed by 458 CMs at 10 Area Agencies on Aging and 62 participated in one of eight focus groups. Data were analysed using a concurrent nested design with individual data analysis and a merged data approach.

Results

There were three main distinctions between the quantitative and qualitative data. First, while CMs reported on the survey that ACP was not too time consuming, focus group data revealed that time was an issue especially related to competing priorities. Second on the survey 60% of the CMS reported they had enough knowledge, but qualitative data revealed about more nuances. Last, the reported comfort levels in the quantitative data were less overt in the qualitative date where additional feelings and attitudes were revealed, for example, frustration with families, preferences for more physician involvement.

Conclusions

Care managers reported their attitudes about ACP, clarified through a rigorous mixed methods analysis. Care managers can successfully lead ACP discussions, but require further education, resources and team‐based guidance.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Advance care planning is essential for reducing emotional, social and financial burdens associated with healthcare decision‐making, and CMs can positively impact ACP discussions when appropriately supported by the clinical community. The many nuances in the ACP process that we found illustrate the need for ongoing discussions, education and research on this important topic.
Matrix‐glycoprotein interactions required for budding of a plant nucleorhabdovirus and induction of inner nuclear membrane invagination
Authors: Sun Kai , Zhou Xin , Lin Wenye , Zhou Xueping , Jackson Andrew O. , Li Zhenghe
Published: May 2018

Nucleorhabdoviruses such as Sonchus yellow net virus (SYNV) replicate in the nuclei and undergo morphogenesis at the inner nuclear membrane (IM) in plant cells. Mature particles are presumed to form by budding of the Matrix (M) protein‐nucleocapsid complexes through host IMs to acquire host phospholipids and the surface glycoproteins (G). To address mechanisms underlying nucleorhabdovirus budding, we generated recombinant SYNV G mutants containing a truncated amino‐terminal (NT) or carboxyl‐terminal (CT) domain. Electron microscopy and sucrose gradient centrifugation analyses showed that the CT domain is essential for virion morphogenesis whereas the NT domain is also required for efficient budding. SYNV infection induces IM invaginations that are thought to provide membrane sites for virus budding. We found that in the context of viral infections, interactions of the M protein with the CT domain of the membrane‐anchored G protein mediate M protein translocation and IM invagination. Interestingly, tethering the M protein to endomembranes, either by co‐expression with a transmembrane G protein CT domain or by artificial fusion with the G protein membrane targeting sequence, induces IM invagination in uninfected cells. Further evidence to support functions of G‐M interactions in virus budding came from dominant negative effects on SYNV‐induced IM invagination and viral infections that were elicited by expression of a soluble version of the G protein CT domain. Based on these data, we propose that cooperative G‐M interactions promote efficient SYNV budding.
Priming patient safety: A middle‐range theory of safety goal priming via safety culture communication
Authors: Groves Patricia S. , Bunch Jacinda L.
Published: May 2018

The aim of this paper is discussion of a new middle‐range theory of patient safety goal priming via safety culture communication. Bedside nurses are key to safe care, but there is little theory about how organizations can influence nursing behavior through safety culture to improve patient safety outcomes. We theorize patient safety goal priming via safety culture communication may support organizations in this endeavor. According to this theory, hospital safety culture communication activates a previously held patient safety goal and increases the perceived value of actions nurses can take to achieve that goal. Nurses subsequently prioritize and are motivated to perform tasks and risk assessment related to achieving patient safety. These efforts continue until nurses mitigate or ameliorate identified risks and hazards during the patient care encounter. Critically, this process requires nurses to have a previously held safety goal associated with a repertoire of appropriate actions. This theory suggests undergraduate educators should foster an outcomes focus emphasizing the connections between nursing interventions and safety outcomes, hospitals should strategically structure patient safety primes into communicative activities, and organizations should support professional development including new skills and the latest evidence supporting nursing practice for patient safety.
Can traits predict individual growth performance? A test in a hyperdiverse tropical forest
Authors: Poorter Lourens , Castilho Carolina V. , Schietti Juliana , Oliveira Rafael S. , Costa Flávia R. C.
Published: May 2018

The functional trait approach has, as a central tenet, that plant traits are functional and shape individual performance, but this has rarely been tested in the field. Here, we tested the individual‐based trait approach in a hyperdiverse Amazonian tropical rainforest and evaluated intraspecific variation in trait values, plant strategies at the individual level, and whether traits are functional and predict individual performance.

We evaluated > 1300 tree saplings belonging to > 383 species, measured 25 traits related to growth and defense, and evaluated the effects of environmental conditions, plant size, and traits on stem growth.

A total of 44% of the trait variation was observed within species, indicating a strong potential for acclimation. Individuals showed two strategy spectra, related to tissue toughness and organ size vs leaf display. In this nutrient‐ and light‐limited forest, traits measured at the individual level were surprisingly poor predictors of individual growth performance because of convergence of traits and growth rates.

Functional trait approaches based on individuals or species are conceptually fundamentally different: the species‐based approach focuses on the potential and the individual‐based approach on the realized traits and growth rates. Counterintuitively, the individual approach leads to a poor prediction of individual performance, although it provides a more realistic view on community dynamics.
The fetus at the tipping point: modifying the outcome of fetal asphyxia
Authors: Dhillon Simerdeep K. , Lear Christopher A. , Galinsky Robert , Wassink Guido , Davidson Joanne O. , Juul Sandra , Robertson Nicola J. , Gunn Alistair J. , Bennet Laura
Published: May 2018

Brain injury around birth is associated with nearly half of all cases of cerebral palsy. Although brain injury is multifactorial, particularly after preterm birth, acute hypoxia–ischaemia is a major contributor to injury. It is now well established that the severity of injury after hypoxia–ischaemia is determined by a dynamic balance between injurious and protective processes. In addition, mothers who are at risk of premature delivery have high rates of diabetes and antepartum infection/inflammation and are almost universally given treatments such as antenatal glucocorticoids and magnesium sulphate to reduce the risk of death and complications after preterm birth. We review evidence that these common factors affect responses to fetal asphyxia, often in unexpected ways. For example, glucocorticoid exposure dramatically increases delayed cell loss after acute hypoxia–ischaemia, largely through secondary hyperglycaemia. This critical new information is important to understand the effects of clinical treatments of women whose fetuses are at risk of perinatal asphyxia.
Physiology and molecular biology of barrier mechanisms in the fetal and neonatal brain
Authors: Saunders Norman R. , Dziegielewska Katarzyna M. , Møllgård Kjeld , Habgood Mark D.
Published: May 2018

Properties of the local internal environment of the adult brain are tightly controlled providing a stable milieu essential for its normal function. The mechanisms involved in this complex control are structural, molecular and physiological (influx and efflux transporters) frequently referred to as the ‘blood–brain barrier’. These mechanisms include regulation of ion levels in brain interstitial fluid essential for normal neuronal function, supply of nutrients, removal of metabolic products, and prevention of entry or elimination of toxic agents. A key feature is cerebrospinal fluid secretion and turnover. This is much less during development, allowing greater accumulation of permeating molecules. The overall effect of these mechanisms is to tightly control the exchange of molecules into and out of the brain. This review presents experimental evidence currently available on the status of these mechanisms in developing brain. It has been frequently stated for over nearly a century that the blood–brain barrier is not present or at least is functionally deficient in the embryo, fetus and newborn. We suggest the alternative hypothesis that the barrier mechanisms in developing brain are likely to be appropriately matched to each stage of its development. The contributions of different barrier mechanisms, such as changes in constituents of cerebrospinal fluid in relation to specific features of brain development, for example neurogenesis, are only beginning to be studied. The evidence on this previously neglected aspect of brain barrier function is outlined. We also suggest future directions this field could follow with special emphasis on potential applications in a clinical setting.