bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐translational modifications in capsid proteins of recombinant adeno‐associated virus (AAV) 1‐rh10 serotypes
Authors: Mary Bertin , Maurya Shubham , Arumugam Sathyathithan , Kumar Vikas , Jayandharan Giridhara R.
Published: July 2019

Post‐translational modifications in viral capsids are known to fine‐tune and regulate several aspects of the infective life cycle of several viruses in the host. Recombinant viruses that are generated in a specific producer cell line are likely to inherit unique post‐translational modifications during intra‐cellular maturation of its capsid proteins. Data on such post‐translational modifications in the capsid of recombinant adeno‐associated virus serotypes (AAV1‐rh10) is limited. We have employed liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis to characterize post‐translational modifications in AAV1‐rh10 capsid protein. Our analysis revealed a total of 52 post‐translational modifications in AAV2‐AAVrh10 capsids, including ubiquitination (17%), glycosylation (36%), phosphorylation (21%), SUMOylation (13%) and acetylation (11%). While AAV1 had no detectable post‐translational modification, at least four AAV serotypes had >7 post‐translational modifications in their capsid protein. About 82% of these post‐translational modifications are novel. A limited validation of AAV2 capsids by MALDI‐TOF and western blot analysis demonstrated minimal glycosylation and ubiquitination of AAV2 capsids. To further validate this, we disrupted a glycosylation site identified in AAV2 capsid (AAV2‐N253Q), which severely compromised its packaging efficiency (~ 100‐fold vs. AAV2 wild‐type vectors). In order to confirm other post‐translational modifications detected such as SUMOylation, mutagenesis of a SUMOylation site(K258Q) in AAV2 was performed. This mutant vector demonstrated reduced levels of SUMO‐1/2/3 proteins and negligible transduction, 2 weeks after ocular gene transfer. Our study underscores the heterogeneity of post‐translational modifications in AAV vectors. The data presented here, should facilitate further studies to understand the biological relevance of post‐translational modifications in AAV life cycle and the development of novel bioengineered AAV vectors for gene therapy applications.

Enzymes

Trypsin, EC 3.4.21.4
Farnesylation of human guanylate‐binding protein 1 as safety mechanism preventing structural rearrangements and uninduced dimerization
Authors: Lorenz Charlotte , Ince Semra , Zhang Tao , Cousin Anneliese , Batra‐Safferling Renu , Nagel‐Steger Luitgard , Herrmann Christian , Stadler Andreas M.
Published: July 2019

Human guanylate‐binding protein 1 (hGBP1) belongs to the family of dynamin‐like proteins and is activated by addition of nucleotides, leading to protein oligomerization and stimulated GTPase activity. In vivo, hGBP1 is post‐translationally modified by attachment of a farnesyl group yielding farn‐hGBP1. In this study, hydrodynamic differences in farn‐hGBP1 and unmodified hGBP1 were investigated using dynamic light scattering (DLS), analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) and analytical size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). In addition, we performed small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) experiments coupled with a SEC setup (SEC‐SAXS) to investigate structural properties of nonmodified hGBP1 and farn‐hGBP1 in solution. SEC‐SAXS measurements revealed that farnesylation keeps hGBP1 in its inactive monomeric and crystal‐like conformation in nucleotide‐free solution, whereas unmodified hGBP1 forms a monomer–dimer equilibrium both in the inactive ground state in nucleotide‐free solution as well as in the activated state that is trapped by addition of the nonhydrolysable GTP analogue GppNHp. Nonmodified hGBP1 is structurally perturbed as compared to farn‐hGBP. In particular, GppNHp binding leads to large structural rearrangements and higher conformational flexibility of the monomer and the dimer. Structural changes observed in the nonmodified protein are prerequisites for further oligomer assemblies of farn‐hGBP1 that occur in the presence of nucleotides.

Database

All SEC‐SAXS data, corresponding fits to the data and structural models are deposited in the Small Angle Scattering Biological Data Bank [SASBDB (Nucleic Acids Res, 43, 2015, D357)] with project IDs: SASDEE8, SASDEF8, SASDEG8, SASDEH8, SASDEJ8, SASDEK8, SASDEL8 and SASDEM8.
Diversity decoupled from sulfur isotope fractionation in a sulfate‐reducing microbial community
Authors: Colangelo‐Lillis Jesse , Pelikan Claus , Herbold Craig W. , Altshuler Ianina , Loy Alexander , Whyte Lyle G. , Wing Boswell A.
Published: July 2019

The extent of fractionation of sulfur isotopes by sulfate‐reducing microbes is dictated by genomic and environmental factors. A greater understanding of species‐specific fractionations may better inform interpretation of sulfur isotopes preserved in the rock record. To examine whether gene diversity influences net isotopic fractionation in situ, we assessed environmental chemistry, sulfate reduction rates, diversity of putative sulfur‐metabolizing organisms by 16S rRNA and dissimilatory sulfite reductase (dsrB) gene amplicon sequencing, and net fractionation of sulfur isotopes along a sediment transect of a hypersaline Arctic spring. In situ sulfate reduction rates yielded minimum cell‐specific sulfate reduction rates < 0.3 × 10−15 moles cell−1 day−1. Neither 16S rRNA nor dsrB diversity indices correlated with relatively constant (38‰–45‰) net isotope fractionation (ε34Ssulfide‐sulfate). Measured ε34S values could be reproduced in a mechanistic fractionation model if 1%–2% of the microbial community (10%–60% of Deltaproteobacteria) were engaged in sulfate respiration, indicating heterogeneous respiratory activity within sulfate‐reducing populations. This model indicated enzymatic kinetic diversity of Apr was more likely to correlate with sulfur fractionation than DsrB. We propose that, above a threshold Shannon diversity value of 0.8 for dsrB, the influence of the specific composition of the microbial community responsible for generating an isotope signal is overprinted by the control exerted by environmental variables on microbial physiology.
Origins and organization of the NHLBI State of the Science Workshop: Generating a national blueprint for future research on factor VIII inhibitors
Authors: Sabatino Denise E. , Pipe Steven W. , Nugent Diane J. , Soucie J. Michael , Hooper W. Craig , Hoots W. Keith , DiMichele Donna M.
Published: July 2019

Introduction

The major complication of protein replacement therapy for haemophilia A is the development of anti‐FVIII antibodies or inhibitors that occur in 25%‐30% of persons with severe haemophilia A. Alternative therapeutics such as bypassing agents or immune tolerance induction protocols have additional challenges and are not always effective.

Aim

Assemble a National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) State of the Science (SOS) Workshop to generate a national blueprint for research on inhibitors to solve the problem of FVIII immunogenicity.

Methods

An Executive Steering Committee was formed in October 2017 to establish the scientific focus and Scientific Working Groups for the SOS Workshop in May 2018. Four working groups were assembled to address scientific priorities in basic, translational and clinical research on inhibitors.

Results

Working Group 1 was charged with determining the scientific priorities for clinical trials to include the integration of non‐intravenous, non‐factor therapeutics including gene therapy into the standard of care for people with haemophilia A with inhibitors. Working Group 2 established the scientific priorities for 21st‐century data science and biospecimen collection for observational inhibitor cohort studies. The scientific priorities for acquiring an actionable understanding of FVIII immunogenicity and the immunology of the host response and FVIII tolerance were developed by Working Group 3. Working Group 4 designed prospective pregnancy/birth cohorts to study FVIII immunogenicity, inhibitor development and eradication.

Conclusion

The NHLBI SOS Workshop generated a focused summary of scientific priorities and implementation strategies to overcome the challenges of eradicating and preventing inhibitors in haemophilia A.
The national blueprint for pregnancy/birth longitudinal cohorts to study factor VIII immunogenicity: NHLBI State of the Science (SOS) Workshop on factor VIII inhibitors
Authors: Johnsen Jill M. , Brown Deborah L. ,   the Members of Working Group 4, the NHLBI State of the Science Workshop on Factor VIII Inhibitors: Generating a National Blueprint for Future Research
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Patients with haemophilia can develop inhibitors to exogenous coagulation factors. Some patients are tolerant to factor, while those who develop inhibitors do so early in life. Genetics and environmental factors are known to contribute to inhibitor risk. However, it is not yet possible to predict inhibitor formation or treatment responsiveness in individuals. We hypothesize that factors in the antenatal/neonatal period inform inhibitor risk development.

Aim

To consider the design of longitudinal studies beginning in the antenatal/neonatal period and the use of new technologies to better understand haemophilia inhibitors.

Methods

A working group was formed for the NHLBI State of the Science Workshop: Factor VIII Inhibitors: Generating a National Blueprint for Future Research to solicit input from the US haemophilia community and international collaborators to consider design of pregnancy/birth longitudinal cohorts that leverage ‐omics, existing phenotypic data, and in silico modelling to study inhibitors.

Results

An antenatal/neonatal longitudinal cohort should begin with enrolment of pregnant genetic carriers of haemophilia and span the at‐risk period for inhibitor development in the child. Data and samples from the mother, placenta, neonate and young child can be obtained that are amenable to existing assays, genomics and other ‐omics studies. Data can inform in silico prediction and mathematical models.

Conclusion

A longitudinal study beginning before birth offers the unique opportunity to study factors that influence inhibitor development prior to exposure. Advances in ‐omics and computational biology can study complex phenotypes in this rare disease. This study could be accomplished through interdisciplinary efforts and patient community engagement.
The national blueprint for future basic and translational research to understand factor VIII immunogenicity: NHLBI State of the Science Workshop on factor VIII inhibitors
Authors: Meeks Shannon L. , Herzog Roland W. ,   on behalf of the Members of Working Group 3, the NHLBI State of the Science Workshop on factor VIII inhibitors: Generating a national blueprint for future research
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Inhibitor formation against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) is an unresolved serious problem in replacement therapy for the X‐linked bleeding disorder haemophilia A. Although FVIII inhibitors have been extensively studied, much of the basic mechanism of this immune response remains to be uncovered.

Aim

Within the NHLBI State of the Science Workshop on Factor VIII Inhibitors, Working Group 3 identified three scientific priorities for basic and translational research on FVIII inhibitor formation.

Methods

A larger list of potential areas of research was initially developed as a basis for subsequent prioritization. Each scientific goal was further evaluated based on required effort, potential impact, approach, methods, technologies and models.

Results

The three priorities include the following: activation signals and immune regulation that shape the response to FVIII (including innate immunity, microbiome, adaptive immunity and regulatory T cell studies in humans); utility of animal models and non‐animal approaches (in silico, genetic, single‐cell/sorted population “omics,” in vitro) to help predict inhibitor formation and identify novel therapeutics; and impact of the source of FVIII, its structure and von Willebrand factor on immunogenicity and tolerance.

Conclusions

Early interactions between FVIII and the immune system, biomarker development and studies in different patient groups (previously treated or untreated, with or without inhibitor formation, patients undergoing immune tolerance induction or gene therapy) deserve particular emphasis. Finally, linking basic to clinical studies, development of a repository for biospecimens and opportunities for interdisciplinary research training are important components to solving the urgent problem of inhibitor formation.
Daily dietary phosphorus intake variability and hemodialysis patient adherence to phosphate binder therapy
Authors: Tao Xingjuan , Zhang Haifen , Yang Yan , Zhang Caihong , Wang Min
Published: July 2019

Introduction: Phosphate balance could be reached only by an optimized combination of dietary restriction and the careful use of phosphate binders for patients receiving standard hemodialysis treatment. Little is known about individual variability of phosphorus intake and phosphate binder use in hemodialysis patients. The purposes of this study were to quantify phosphorus intake and to describe individual phosphate‐binder use in hemodialysis patients.

Methods: This was a cross‐sectional study. The dietary phosphorus intake was assessed using a 3‐day duplicate portion sampling method combined with chemical analysis. Patients' adherence to phosphate binders was evaluated by the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, with a score of <6 being considered as an indicator of inadequate adherence.

Findings: A total of 101 food samples from 36 patients were collected and analyzed. The mean daily phosphorus, protein, and energy intake was 15.1 mg/kg/d, 1.0 g/kg/d, and 28.9 kcal/kg/d, respectively. There was a higher consumption of phosphorus on dialysis days (DDs) than on non‐dialysis days (NDDs) (16.2 mg/kg/d vs. 14.0 mg/kg/d, P = 0.035); however, such a trend was not observed for dietary protein and energy intake (1.1 g/kg/d vs. 1.0 g/kg/d, P = 0.706; 30.3 kcal/kg/d vs. 27.6 kcal/kg/d, P = 0.225). A significantly higher percentage of patients on low phosphorus intake (<1000 mg/d) reported inadequate phosphate‐binding adherence than those on high phosphorus intake (60% vs. 18%, P = 0.031).

Discussion: Patients receiving hemodialysis had a higher consumption of phosphorus on DDs than on NDDs; such a pattern was not obviously observed for protein and energy intake. For patients achieving phosphorus intake recommendation, medication nonadherence that possibly being attributed to the patient's necessity beliefs may pose extra hurdles for phosphate control.
Selected commensal bacteria change profiles of Helicobacter pylori‐induced T cells via dendritic cell modulation
Authors: Wiese‐Szadkowska Malgorzata , Helmin–Basa Anna , Eljaszewicz Andrzej , Gackowska Lidia , Januszewska Milena , Motyl Ilona , Andryszczyk Marek , Wieczynska Jolanta , Michalkiewicz Jacek
Published: July 2019

Background

The mechanisms of downregulation of protective immunity against Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection strongly depend on dendritic cell (DC)‐induced T‐lymphocyte differentiation pattern. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains can modulate Hp‐induced immunoresponse by changes in DC activation profiles. Here, we want to find out if the LAB‐pulsed DCs will change Hp‐induced T‐cell responsiveness patterns.

Materials and Methods

The naive peripheral CD4+ T cells were co‐cultured with Hp CagA + pulsed monocyte‐derived DCs (DC/CD4+ T cell) in the presence/absence of the feces‐derived probiotics: antagonistic or non‐antagonistic to Hp (Lactobacillus rhamnosus 900, Lr, Lactobacillus paracasei 915, Lp, respectively), as assessed by the agar slab method. The regulatory T‐cell (Treg) population was assessed by flow cytometry, and IFN‐γ, IL‐12p70, IL‐10, and IL‐17A levels were evaluated by ELISA method.

Results

The Hp‐pulsed DC/CD4+ T‐cell co‐cultures were characterized by high IL‐10, decreased IL‐12p70 and IFN‐γ levels, and elevated Treg population. In contrast, Lr‐pulsed DC/CD4+ T‐cell co‐cultures expressed low IL‐10, high IL‐12p70 and IFN‐γ levels and declined Treg population; this responsiveness pattern was not changed by Hp. The responsiveness pattern of the Lp/Hp‐pulsed DC/CD4+ T‐cell co‐cultures did not differ from those pulsed with Hp alone.

Conclusion

In contrast to Lp, Lr probiotic strain overcomes Hp‐mediated immune profile in the DC/T‐cell co‐cultures toward Th1 pattern and limited generation of Tregs in vitro. Lr may therefore be used as a component of anti‐Hp treatment.
Higher immunoglobulin A nephropathy recurrence in related‐donor kidney transplants: The Japan Academic Consortium of Kidney Transplantation study
Authors: Okumi Masayoshi , Okada Daigo , Unagami Kohei , Kakuta Yoichi , Iizuka Junpei , Takagi Toshio , Shirakawa Hiroki , Omoto Kazuya , Ishida Hideki , Tanabe Kazunari ,   the Japan Academic Consortium of Kidney Transplantation (JACK)
Published: July 2019

Objective

To investigate the 10‐year biopsy‐proven recurrence rates and risk factors for immunoglobulin A nephropathy recurrence in kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

We included 299 kidney transplant recipients from 1995 to 2015, who had biopsy‐proven underlying immunoglobulin A nephropathy and underwent zero‐hour biopsy. The primary end‐point was recurrence of immunoglobulin A nephropathy. We compared clinical, treatment and graft failure among those with and without recurrent immunoglobulin A nephropathy. A time‐to‐recurrence analysis was carried out using the competing risk analysis and time‐dependent Cox model.

Results

Of 299 recipients, 80 had recurrent immunoglobulin A nephropathy (66.3% with clinical biopsy and 33.7% with protocol biopsy, post‐transplant biopsy rate: 90.6%). The 10‐year recurrence rate was 34.3% (95% confidence interval 27.6–41.1). Related‐donor transplantation (hazard ratio 2.28, P = 0.009) and post‐transplant increased proteinuria (hazard ratio 1.59, P < 0.001) were identified as potential risk factors for immunoglobulin A nephropathy recurrence. The 10‐year rates were 41.5% in related donor recipients and 16.3% in unrelated donor recipients. There was no conclusive evidence that the calcineurin inhibitor, antimetabolites, basiliximab and rituximab reduce immunoglobulin A nephropathy recurrence. Immunoglobulin A nephropathy recurrence was associated with an increased risk of death‐censored graft failure (hazard ratio 5.29, 95% confidence interval 1.39–20.17, P = 0.015). However, related donor itself was not associated with an increased risk of graft failure.

Conclusions

The present results have clinical implications in that the signs of recurrent immunoglobulin A nephropathy should be evaluated carefully in recipients receiving related‐donor transplants. There is a need for further studies related to genetic and/or familial interactions in kidney transplant recipients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy and related donors.
Intraday order placement and execution in a limit order market: Evidence from the Indonesia stock market
Authors: Ekaputra Irwan A. , Liu Chunlin , Rhee S. Ghon , Zeng Hongchao
Published: July 2019

Using order and trade information from the Jakarta Stock Exchange (JSX), we examine the intraday patterns of order placement and execution. We find that the probability of an order being executed is the lowest in the first trading hour even though more than 50% of orders are submitted during the period. The execution probability increases steadily along the trading hours and reaches the highest close to the end of trading. Controlling for order aggressiveness and other factors that might impact investors' order placement behavior, we find that orders placed in the morning take longer to be executed compared to those submitted in the afternoon. However, the execution cost is relatively lower for orders of early trading. Our results suggest that choosing the right time to place an order is important in designing an optimal trading strategy.
Case records from the 13th annual international symposium on ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Pathik Bhupesh , Dukkipati Srinivas , Syros Geroge , Reddy Vivek Y. , Koruth Jacob
Published: July 2019

A 60‐year old male with a history of nonischemic cardiomyopathy and the high burden of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) was evaluated for possible PVC‐induced cardiomyopathy.
Bipolar ablation of epicardial posteroseptal accessory pathway
Authors: Derejko Pawel , Miszczak‐Knecht Maria , Sliwka Michal , Dzwonkowska Dobromiła , Bieganowska Katarzyna
Published: July 2019

We present a case of a 16‐year‐old male with WPW syndrome, referred for ablation after being resuscitated from cardiac arrest. Bipolar transseptal RF ablation successfully destroyed rapidly conducting epicardial posteroseptal accessory pathway after three failed attempts of endo‐ and epicardial ablation.
Procyanidin B2 inhibits the activation of hepatic stellate cells and angiogenesis via the Hedgehog pathway during liver fibrosis
Authors: Feng Jiao , Wang Chengfen , Liu Tong , Li Jingjing , Wu Liwei , Yu Qiang , Li Sainan , Zhou Yuting , Zhang Jie , Chen Jiaojiao , Ji Jie , Chen Kan , Mao Yuqing , Wang Fan , Dai Weiqi , Fan Xiaoming , Wu Jianye , Guo Chuanyong
Published: July 2019

Background

Liver fibrosis is a wound‐healing process of liver featured by the over‐deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and angiogenesis. However, the effective treatment is lacking. Procyanidin B2 (PB2) is a flavonoid extract abundant in grape seeds with anti‐oxidant, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐cancer properties. The present study aimed to determine effects of PB2 on liver fibrosis.

Method

The CCl4‐induced mouse liver fibrosis model and a human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line (LX2 cells) were used to study the activation, ECM production and angiogenesis of HSCs through Western blotting analysis, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry and tubulogenesis assay. A Hedgehog (Hh) pathway inhibitor (cyclopamine) and Smoothened agonist (SAG) were used to investigate the role of PB2 on Hh pathway.

Results

The results showed that PB2 could inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of HSCs. PB2 could also down‐regulate the expressions of VEGF‐A, HIF‐1α, α‐SMA, Col‐1 and TGF‐β1 of HSCs in vivo and in vitro. The application of SAG and cyclopamine proved that PB2 targets on Hh pathway.

Conclusions

PB2 inhibited the Hh pathway to suppress the activation, ECM production and angiogenesis of HSCs, therefore reverses the progression of liver fibrosis in vivo and in vitro.
Effect of WAM‐1 transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana on the development and gut microbial composition of diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) larvae (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)
Authors: Wu Yafei , Jayasekara Arachchige Maduka Nilakshi , Pei Xiaoya , Wang Dun
Published: July 2019

WAM‐1 is a cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide found on the Macropus eugenii (Tammar wallaby) genome. It possesses antibiotic activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi. In order to investigate the impact of this WAM‐1 antimicrobial peptide on development and midgut microbial composition of Plutella xylostella (DBM) larvae, the WAM‐1 was introduced into Arabidopsis thaliana using the Agrobacterium‐mediated floral‐dip transformation method. WAM‐1 expression was confirmed by reverse transcriptase PCR analysis. The larval growth and developmental variations and midgut microbial compositions were analysed after DBM larvae had fed on transgenic plants. Transgenic plant‐fed DBM larvae showed significantly higher mortality, a prolonged developmental period and less weight gain. Enterobacteriaceae was the highest dominating family in all samples including transgenic and non‐transgenic plants fed larvae. However, its abundance was substantially lower in the WAM‐1 Arabidopsis‐fed larvae. Furthermore, Moraxellaceae and Bacillaceae were the next dominating families in the WAM‐1 transgenic Arabidopsis‐fed larvae whereas Enterococcaceae and Xanthomonadaceae were dominant in the non‐transgenic Arabidopsis‐fed larvae. Abundance of Pseudomonadaceae was also relatively higher in WAM‐1 transgenic‐fed larvae whereas it was much lower in other samples. Therefore, our findings suggest that WAM‐1 has an impact on gut microbial composition but a minor effect on larval development.
Distribution models for Ascia monuste and the host Brassica oleracea var. capitata
Authors: Santos Abraão Almeida , Hogendoorn Katja , Ramos Rodrigo Soares , Picanço Marcelo Coutinho
Published: July 2019

The butterfly Ascia monuste L. (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) is a specialist pest of brassica crops in neotropical regions where it significantly impacts crop production. Understanding the actual and potential distribution of the pest and its hosts in current and future climates may help government agencies to mitigate and manage potential incursions. Here, we use MaxEnt algorithm to model the current distribution of both A. monuste and its host, Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. (cabbage) and then model the likely impact of projected climate change (RCP 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios) on their potential future distributions. While A. monuste is currently restricted to the American continent, we show that under current conditions the potential distribution of both the butterfly and cabbage includes areas of Africa, Asia, Oceania and Europe to some extent. The annual temperature range and mean annual temperature were the strongest predictors of the distribution of both species. Under a projected climate change scenario, suitable areas in the tropical climate zone are expected to decrease for both species. However, in temperate regions, the suitable area for cabbage is expected to increase but will remain unsuitable for the pest. Our results highlight the need for strategies to prevent the introduction of A. monuste to other areas of the tropical climate zone and for the development of management practices in the neotropical region.
Salinity affects growth but not thermal preference of adult mummichogs Fundulus heteroclitus
Authors: Thompson Jessica S.
Published: July 2019

The effects of an ecologically relevant range of salinities (2, 12, 22, 32) on thermal preferences and growth of adult mummichogs Fundulus heteroclitus were determined for fish from a southern Chesapeake Bay population. Salinity did not affect the mean temperature selected by F. heteroclitus in a thermal gradient, which was identified as 26.6°C based on observations of 240 individuals. Salinity and temperature had significant and interacting effects on growth rates of F. heteroclitus measured over 12 weeks. Growth rates were highest overall and remained high over a broader range of temperatures at moderate salinities (12 and 22), while high growth rates were shifted toward lower temperatures for fish grown at a salinity of 2 and higher temperatures at a salinity of 32. Significant reductions in growth relative to the optimal conditions (28.6°C, salinity of 22) were observed at the coolest (19.6°C) and warmest (33.6°C) temperature tested at all salinities, as well as temperatures ≥ 26.6°C at a salinity of 2, ≥ 28.6°C at a salinity of 12 and ≤ 26.6°C at a salinity of 32. Growth rates provide a long‐term, organismal measure of performance and results of this study indicate that performance may be reduced under conditions that the highly euryhaline F. heteroclitus can otherwise easily tolerate. The combination of reduced salinity and increased temperature that is predicted for temperate estuaries as a result of climate change may have negative effects on growth of this ecologically important species.
Budget Allocation Patterns of U.S. Households across Income Levels in the 21st Century
Authors: Boonsaeng Tullaya , Carpio Carlos E.
Published: July 2019

This study examined the budget allocation patterns of U.S. households during the period 2000–2015. Four household groups—classified based on their income levels in relation to the federal poverty level—are used for the analyses. Data from the quarterly interview component of the BLS Consumer Expenditure Survey were used in order to calculate households' annual expenditures in eight commodity groups: food, utilities, apparel and apparel services, transportation, medical care, shelter and household operations, other nondurable expenditures and services, and durable goods. An exact affine stone index (EASI) demand system was used to estimate demand relationships (i.e., price, income elasticities, and marginal effects). Overall, we find that budget allocation, consumers' responses to changes in prices and income, and the effects of sociodemographic characteristics on spending can be markedly different between income groups. The use of a representative or average household for demand analyses can mask substantial differences in economic behaviors between these four income groups.
The effect of botulinum toxin type A in different dilution on the contraction of fibroblast—In vitro study
Authors: Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Kaewkes Arisa , Ungaksornpairote Chanida , Limsaengurai Saowalak , Panich Uraiwan , Manuskiatti Woraphong
Published: July 2019

Background

Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) may directly remodel dermal tissues or induce a loss of normal morphology and cytoplasmic retraction and spread. Intradermal injection was claimed to produce a dermo‐lifting effect, including midface lifting by using low concentration with variable dilution.

Objective

To understand how intradermal BoNT‐A achieves tissue lifting, we examined different type of BoNT‐A and their effects on dermal fibroblast contraction.

Methods

Normal human dermal fibroblasts were treated with onabotulinumtoxin (ONA), abobotulinumtoxin (ABO), prabotulinumtoxinA (PRABO), incobotulinumtoxinA (INCO), and letibotulinumtoxin A (LETI) in dilutions used in real‐world practice. Fifty fibroblasts per dilution were photographed and measured the length to demonstrate their contraction every 2 hours from baseline (0 hours) to 12 hours post‐treatment.

Results

ONA did not significantly decrease fibroblast lengths, at any timepoint or dilution. At 1:7 dilution ratios, ABO decreased fibroblast lengths after 2 hours and significantly after 10‐12 hours. At 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, and 1:10 dilution, PRABO decreased length, and most rapidly at 1:7 and 1:8. At 1:6, 1:8, 1:9, and 1:10 dilution, INCO decreased lengths almost immediately. At 1:6 dilution, INCO decreased lengths almost immediately. At 1:7 dilution, INCO decreased lengths after 2‐4 hours, while at 1:8, 1:9, and 1:10 dilution, INCO decreased lenghts nearly imediately. LETI decreased lengths at all dilutions except 1:9, with near‐immediate effects at 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, and 1:10. At 1:4 dilution, LETI decreased lengths from 1 hour.

Conclusions

Different commercial preparations of BoNT‐A toxins cause different fibroblast contractions in vitro. Product selection and dilution used may affect the clinical outcome of intradermal injection of BoNT‐A for face lifting.
Population genetics and evolutionary history of Miscanthus species in China
Authors: Li Shan‐Shan , Zhou Hai‐Fei , Chen Wen‐Li , Yan Juan , Cai Zhe , Wei Ruo‐Xun , Chen Chih‐Hui , Han Bin , Li Jian‐Qiang , Sang Tao , Ge Song
Published: July 2019

Miscanthus species have received considerable attention as a potential biomass source for renewable energy production because of their ability to produce high yields of biomass and adapt to a wide range of climates and soils. To explore the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Miscanthus species in China, we used 24 simple sequence repeat markers to genotype 100 natural populations representing all four Chinese Miscanthus species (M. sinensis Andersson, M. floridulus (Lab.) Warb. ex K. Schum. & Lauterb., M. sacchariflorus (Maxim.) Hack., and M. lutarioriparius L. Liu ex Renvoize & S. L. Chen). Based on phylogenetic, principal coordinate, and Structure analyses, we found that the 100 populations formed two major groups corresponding to sect. Triarrhena and sect. Miscanthus. Group 1 (i.e., sect. Triarrhena) was further subdivided into two subgroups corresponding to M. sacchariflorus and M. lutarioriparius; Group 2 (i.e., sect. Miscanthus) was subdivided into three subgroups, group 2a (M. sinensis populations in southern China), group 2b (M. sinensis populations in northern China), and group 2c (all the M. floridulus populations). Population genetics analyses indicated high levels of the genetic diversity at both population (HE = 0.468–0.599) and species (HE = 0.559–0.708) levels, indicative of the potential of these wild resources in future breeding programs. The species distribution modeling showed that M. sacchariﬂorus and M. lutarioriparius have experienced population reductions during the last glacial maximum and population expansion afterward; in contrast, M. sinensis and M. floridulus both underwent gradual population expansions from the last interglaciation to the present. We also suggest that M. floridulus originated from M. sinensis in southeast China through ecological speciation. The understanding of the evolutionary history and population dynamics of these species not only provides valuable information for further genetic improvement and breeding of this energy crop but also gives important insights into the origin and speciation processes of the Miscanthus species.
New insights into the phylogeny and biogeography of subfamily Orontioideae (Araceae)
Authors: Lee Joon Seon , Kim Seon‐Hee , Lee Sangryong , Maki Masayuki , Otsuka Koichi , Kozhevnikov Andrey E. , Kozhevnikova Zoya V. , Wen Jun , Kim Seung‐Chul
Published: July 2019

Proto‐Araceae, the earliest diverged lineage within the family Araceae, includes two subfamilies, Gymnostachydoideae (one species) and Orontioideae (eight species). Based on an extensive sampling (a total of 198 accessions) of six chloroplast non‐coding regions (5799 aligned sites), we assessed phylogenetic relationships among the genera and species within subfamily Orontioideae and estimated the timing of intercontinental disjunct events in the Northern Hemisphere. Overall phylogenetic relationships among the genera were consistent with results from previous studies, but several new important findings were discovered, primarily within Symplocarpus Salisb. ex W. P. C. Barton. First, two major lineages within Symplocarpus were identified: one lineage included S. foetidus (L.) Salisb. ex W. Barton, S. nabekuraensis Otsuka & K. Inoue, and S. renifolius Schott ex Tzvelev (Japan), whereas the other included S. nipponicus Makino, S. egorovii N. S. Pavlova & V. A. Nechaev, and S. renifolius (Korea). Symplocarpus renifolius in Japan was tetraploid and closely related to the tetraploid S. foetidus in eastern North America. Populations of S. renifolius in Korea were confirmed to be diploid (2n = 30) and shared the most recent common ancestor with the other diploid species, S. nipponicus. Second, two recently described species, S. nabekuraensis and S. egorovii, were deeply embedded within S. renifolius in Japan and Korea, respectively, and their distinct taxonomic status requires further assessment. Finally, two intercontinental disjunction events in the subfamily, one in Lysichiton Schott between eastern Asia and western North America and the other in Symplocarpus between eastern Asia and eastern North America, were estimated to be between 4.5 and 1.4 million years ago (Pliocene and Pleistocene) and between 1.9 and 0.5 million years ago (Pleistocene), respectively.
Genome‐wide variation in DNA methylation is associated with stress resilience and plumage brightness in a wild bird
Authors: Taff Conor C. , Campagna Leonardo , Vitousek Maren N.
Published: July 2019

Individuals often differ in their ability to cope with challenging environmental and social conditions. Evidence from model systems suggests that patterns of DNA methylation are associated with variation in coping ability. These associations could arise directly if methylation plays a role in controlling the physiological response to stressors by, among other things, regulating the release of glucocorticoids in response to challenges. Alternatively, the association could arise indirectly if methylation and resilience have a common cause, such as early‐life conditions. In either case, methylation might act as a biomarker for coping ability. At present, however, relatively little is known about whether variation in methylation is associated with organismal performance and resilience under natural conditions. We studied genome‐wide patterns of DNA methylation in free‐living female tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) using methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) and a tree swallow genome that was assembled for this study. We identified areas of the genome that were differentially methylated with respect to social signal expression (breast brightness) and physiological traits (ability to terminate the glucocorticoid stress response through negative feedback). We also asked whether methylation predicted resilience to a subsequent experimentally imposed challenge. Individuals with brighter breast plumage and higher stress resilience had lower methylation at differentially methylated regions across the genome. Thus, widespread differences in methylation predicted both social signal expression and the response to future challenges under natural conditions. These results have implications for predicting individual differences in resilience, and for understanding the mechanistic basis of resilience and its environmental and social mediators.
The roles of age, parentage and environment on bacterial and algal endosymbiont communities in Acropora corals
Authors: Chan Wing Yan , Peplow Lesa M. , Menéndez Patricia , Hoffmann Ary A. , van Oppen Madeleine J. H.
Published: July 2019

The bacterial and microalgal endosymbiont (Symbiodiniaceae spp.) communities associated with corals have important roles in their health and resilience, yet little is known about the factors driving their succession during early coral life stages. Using 16S rRNA gene and ITS2 metabarcoding, we compared these communities in four Acropora coral species and their hybrids obtained from two laboratory crosses (Acropora tenuis × Acropora loripes and Acropora sarmentosa × Acropora florida) across the parental, recruit (7 months old) and juvenile (2 years old) life stages. We tested whether microbiomes differed between (a) life stages, (b) hybrids and purebreds, and (c) treatment conditions (ambient/elevated temperature and pCO2). Microbial communities of early life stage corals were highly diverse, lacked host specificity and were primarily determined by treatment conditions. Over time, a winnowing process occurred, and distinct microbial communities developed between the two species pair crosses by 2 years of age, irrespective of hybrid or purebred status. These findings suggest that the microbial communities of corals have a period of flexibility prior to adulthood, which can be valuable to future research aimed at the manipulation of coral microbial communities.
Time‐Varying Relationship between Inflation and Inflation Uncertainty
Authors: Hou Chenghan
Published: July 2019

This paper investigates whether the relationship between inflation and inflation uncertainty has changed and whether the change in this relationship has been gradual or abrupt. We extend the time‐varying parameter with stochastic volatility in mean model (TVP‐SVM) to include a mixture innovation disturbance in the time‐varying parameter process. The proposed model produces more reliable estimates and allows us to investigate the occurrence of breaks in the gradually evolving process of the time varying coefficients. Using data of US, Germany, Canada, New Zealand, UK, France, Italy, Spain and Australia, we find that: (i) the relationship between inflation and inflation uncertainty substantially varies over time; (ii) there is strong support for the existence of abrupt changes in the US inflation–inflation uncertainty relationship; (iii) our empirical results of Canada and New Zealand show that the correlation between inflation and inflation uncertainty has been much weaker since early 1990s, which coincides with the timing of the implementation of inflation targeting.
A comparison of the healthiness of packaged foods and beverages from 12 countries using the Health Star Rating nutrient profiling system, 2013–2018
Authors: Dunford Elizabeth K. , Ni Mhurchu Cliona , Huang Liping , Vandevijvere Stefanie , Swinburn Boyd , Pravst Igor , Tolentino‐Mayo Lizbeth , Reyes Marcela , L'Abbé Mary , Neal Bruce C.
Published: July 2019

We compared the healthiness of packaged foods and beverages between selected countries using the Health Star Rating (HSR) nutrient profiling system. Packaged food and beverage data collected 2013–2018 were obtained for Australia, Canada, Chile, China, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, New Zealand, Slovenia, South Africa, the UK, and USA. Each product was assigned to a food or beverage category and mean HSR was calculated overall by category and by country. Median energy density (kJ/100 g), saturated fat (g/100 g), total sugars (g/100 g) and sodium (mg/100 g) contents were calculated. Countries were ranked by mean HSR and median nutrient levels. Mean HSR for all products (n = 394,815) was 2.73 (SD 1.38) out of 5.0 (healthiest profile). The UK, USA, Australia and Canada ranked highest for overall nutrient profile (HSR 2.74–2.83) and India, Hong Kong, China and Chile ranked lowest (HSR 2.27–2.44). Countries with higher overall HSR generally ranked better with respect to nutrient levels. India ranked consistently in the least healthy third for all measures. There is considerable variability in the healthiness of packaged foods and beverages in different countries. The finding that packaged foods and beverages are less healthy in middle‐income countries such as China and India suggests that nutrient profiling is an important tool to enable policymakers and industry actors to reformulate products available in the marketplace to reduce the risk of obesity and NCDs among populations.
Estimating stomatal and biochemical limitations during photosynthetic induction
Authors: Deans Ross M. , Farquhar Graham D. , Busch Florian A.
Published: July 2019

Understanding stomatal and biochemical components that limit photosynthesis under different conditions is important for both the targeted improvement of photosynthesis and the elucidation of how stomata and biochemistry affect plant performance in an ecological context. Limitation analyses have not yet been extensively applied to conditions of photosynthetic induction after an increase in irradiance. Moreover, few studies have systematically assessed how well various limitation analyses actually work. Here we build on two general ways of estimating limitations, one that sequentially removes the effect of a limitation (elimination) and one that uses a tangent plane approximation (differential), by including the ternary effect and boundary layer conductance so that they are consistent with gas exchange data. We apply them to the analysis of temporal and time‐integrated limitations during photosynthetic induction, calculating limitations either independent of the time course (one‐step) or make use of the entire time course (stepwise). We show that the stepwise differential method is the best method to use when time steps are small enough. We further show that the differential method predicts limitations near exact when the internal CO2 concentration stays constant. This last insight has important implications for the general use of limitation analyses beyond photosynthetic induction.
Tomato GLR3.3 and GLR3.5 mediate cold acclimation‐induced chilling tolerance by regulating apoplastic H2O2 production and redox homeostasis
Authors: Li Huizi , Jiang Xiaochun , Lv Xiangzhang , Ahammed Golam Jalal , Guo Zhixin , Qi Zhenyu , Yu Jingquan , Zhou Yanhong
Published: July 2019

Plant glutamate receptor‐like (GLR) genes play important roles in plant development and immune response. However, the functions of GLRs in abiotic stress response remain unclear. Here we show that cold acclimation at 12°C induced the transcripts of GLR3.3 and GLR3.5 with increased tolerance against a subsequent chilling at 4 °C. Silencing of GLR3.3 or/and GLR3.5 or application of the antagonist of ionotropic glutamate receptor 6,7‐dinitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione (DNQX), all compromised the acclimation‐induced increases in the transcripts of respiratory burst oxidase homolog1 (RBOH1), activity of NADPH oxidase, the accumulation of apoplastic H2O2 and the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG), resulting in an attenuated chilling tolerance; the effect, however, was rescued by foliar application of H2O2 or GSH. Both RBOH1‐silenced and glutathione biosynthesis genes, γ‐ glutamylcysteine synthetase (GSH1)‐ and glutathione synthetase (GSH2)‐cosilenced plants had decreased chilling tolerance with reduced GSH/GSSG ratio. Moreover, application of DNQX had little effects on the GSH/GSSG ratio and the tolerance in RBOH1‐silenced plants and GSH1‐ and GSH2‐cosilenced plants. These findings unmasked the functional hierarchy of GLR‐H2O2‐glutathione cascade and shed new light on cold response pathway in tomato plants.
What makes a volatile organic compound a reliable indicator of insect herbivory?
Authors: Douma Jacob C. , Ganzeveld Laurens N. , Unsicker Sybille B. , Boeckler G. Andreas , Dicke Marcel
Published: July 2019

Plants that are subject to insect herbivory emit a blend of so‐called herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs), of which only a few serve as cues for the carnivorous enemies to locate their host. We lack understanding which HIPVs are reliable indicators of insect herbivory. Here, we take a modelling approach to elucidate which physicochemical and physiological properties contribute to the information value of a HIPV. A leaf‐level HIPV synthesis and emission model is developed and parameterized to poplar. Next, HIPV concentrations within the canopy are inferred as a function of dispersion, transport and chemical degradation of the compounds. We show that the ability of HIPVs to reveal herbivory varies from almost perfect to no better than chance and interacts with canopy conditions. Model predictions matched well with leaf‐emission measurements and field and laboratory assays. The chemical class a compound belongs to predicted the signalling ability of a compound only to a minor extent, whereas compound characteristics such as its reaction rate with atmospheric oxidants, biosynthesis rate upon herbivory and volatility were much more important predictors. This study shows the power of merging fields of plant–insect interactions and atmospheric chemistry research to increase our understanding of the ecological significance of HIPVs.