bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alzheimer’s disease risk SNPs show no strong effect on miRNA expression in human lymphoblastoid cell lines
Authors: Wohlers Inken , Schulz Colin , Kilpert Fabian , Bertram Lars
Published: July 2018

The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is currently extensively investigated. In this study, we assessed the potential impact of AD genetic risk variants on miRNA expression by performing large-scale bioinformatic data integration. Our analysis was based on genetic variants from three AD genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Association with miRNA expression was tested by expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis using next-generation miRNA sequencing data generated in lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL). While, overall, we did not identify a strong effect of AD GWAS variants on miRNA expression in this cell type we highlight two notable outliers, i.e. miR-29c-5p and miR-6840-5p. MiR-29c-5p was recently reported to be involved in the regulation of BACE1 and SORL1 expression. In conclusion, despite two exceptions our large-scale assessment provides only limited support for the hypothesis that AD GWAS variants act as miRNA eQTLs.
Presence of causative mutations affecting prolificacy in the Noire du Velay and Mouton Vendéen sheep breeds
Authors: Chantepie L. , Bodin L. , Sarry J. , Woloszyn F. , Ruesche J. , Drouilhet L. , Fabre S.
Published: July 2018

For many decades, prolificacy has been selected in meat sheep breeds as a polygenic trait but with limited genetic gain. However, the discovery of major genes affecting prolificacy has changed the way of selection for some ovine breeds implementing gene-assisted selection as in the French Lacaune and Grivette meat breeds, or in the Spanish Rasa Aragonesa breed. Based on statistical analysis of litter size parameters from 34 French meat sheep populations, we suspected the segregation of a mutation in a major gene affecting prolificacy in the Noire du Velay and in the Mouton Vendéen breeds exhibiting a very high variability of the litter size. After the genotyping of mutations known to be present in French sheep breeds, we discovered the segregation of the FecLL mutation at the B4GALNT2 locus and the FecXGr mutation at the BMP15 locus in Noire du Velay and Mouton Vendéen, respectively. The frequency of ewes carrying FecLL in the Noire du Velay population was estimated at 21.2% and the Mouton Vendéen ewes carrying FecXGr at 10.3%. The estimated mutated allele effect of FecLL and FecXGron litter size at +0.4 and +0.3 lamb per lambing in Noire du Velay and Mouton Vendéen, respectively. Due to the fairly high frequency and the rather strong effect of the FecLL and FecXGr prolific alleles, specific management programmes including genotyping should be implemented for a breeding objective of prolificacy adapted to each of these breeds.
Neurotensin and Dynorphin Bi-Directionally Modulates CeA Inhibition of oval BNST Neurons in Male Mice
Authors: Normandeau CP , Torruella Suárez ML , Sarret P , McElligott ZA , Dumont EC
Published: July 2018

Neuropeptides are often co-expressed in neurons but their neurophysiological effects are commonly studied individually. Multiple neuropeptides may therefore be simultaneously released to coordinate proper neural circuit function. Here, we triggered the release of endogenous neuropeptides in brain slices from male mice to better understand the modulation of central amygdala (CeA) inhibitory inputs onto oval (ov) BNST neurons. We found that locally-released neurotensin (NT) and dynorphin (Dyn) antagonistically regulated CeA inhibitory inputs onto ovBNST neurons. NT and Dyn respectively increased and decreased CeA-to-ovBNST inhibitory inputs through NT receptor 1 (NTR1) and kappa opioid receptor (KOR). Additionally, NT and Dyn mRNAs were highly co-localized in ovBNST neurons suggesting that they may be released from the same cells. Together, we showed that NT and Dyn are key modulators of CeA inputs to ovBNST, paving the way to determine whether different conditions or states can alter the neuropeptidergic regulation of this particular brain circuit.
Uncertainty as opportunity: the challenge of project based careers
Authors: Lloyd-Walker Beverley , Crawford Lynn , French Erica
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Current literature acknowledges the growth of careers in project management. The purpose of this paper is to provide a better understanding of the characteristics of those who choose and continue in project-based careers.

Design/methodology/approach

Using social cognitive career theory as the lens to explore project management career journeys, 74 project practitioners were interviewed from across three broad industry sectors. A qualitative research approach was utilized and Atlas.ti was used to analyze and categorize the interview data collected.

Findings

Those who choose to continue in project-based roles demonstrate high levels of self-efficacy and coping efficacy and see uncertainty as opportunity. They value challenge, flexibility and variety and take responsibility for their own career progression. Desire for employment security may vary according to personal circumstance. These findings are of value to employers in guiding selection and retention of people for project roles.

Research limitations/implications

This is a qualitative and exploratory study covering only three industry sectors and results are not generalizable. SCCT was found useful as a lens for understanding the nature of project-based careers.

Practical implications

Findings of this research provide valuable guidance for employers and HR practitioners in project-based organizations. For practitioners the study provides a useful framework for reflecting upon their own careers in projects.

Social implications

The nature of careers is changing. Project-based careers are indicative of this change. This study therefore provides insight into an evolving phenomenon.

Originality/value

This study expands our understanding of careers in projects, going beyond technical skill development to gain a deeper understanding of personal attributes that contribute to selection into and retention in project-based careers.
Optimization-based gait planning and control for biped robots utilizing the optimal allowable ZMP variation region
Authors: Zhu Hongbo , Luo Minzhou , Li Jingzhao
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to present an optimization-based gait planning method for biped robots according to the conditions of terrain, which takes fully the relationship between walking stability margin and energy efficiency into account.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors newly designed a practical gait motion synthesis algorithm by using the optimal allowable zero moment point (ZMP) variation region (OAZR), which can generate different gait motions corresponding to different terrains based on the modifiability of ZMP in lateral (y-axis) direction. Second, an effective gait parameter optimization algorithm is performed to find the optimal set of key gait parameters (step length, duration time of gait cycle, average height of center of mass (CoM), amplitude of the vertical CoM motion and double support ratio), which maximizes either the walking stability margin or the energy efficiency with certain walking stability margin under practical constraints (mechanical constraints of all joint motors, geometric constraints, friction force limit and yawing moment limit) according to the conditions of terrain. Third, the necessary controllers for biped robots have been introduced briefly.

Findings

The experiment data and results are described and analyzed, showing that the proposed method was verified through simulations and implemented on a DRC-XT biped robot.

Originality/value

The main contribution is that the OAZR has been defined based on AZR, which could be used to plan and generate the various feasible gait motions to help a biped robot to adapt effectively to various terrains.
When kids are the last to know: embodied tensions in surprising children with family vacations
Authors: Drenten Jenna
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Surprise family vacations have become increasingly prevalent in today’s digitally mediated consumer culture. Drawing on a performance-based view of tourism, this paper aims to explore the performance practices and embodied experiences by which young consumers are the recipients of last-minute surprise vacations.

Design/methodology/approach

YouTube offers a space for examining surprise family vacations, as captured in real time by consumers. The visual elements and verbal discourses of 139 surprise family vacation reveal videos were analyzed using a hermeneutical approach.

Findings

Findings suggest that surprise family vacations are characterized by three performance practices in which embodied tensions arise between normative expectations and unanticipated experiences: executing the reveal (scripted act versus improvised act), announcing the destination (absolute ideal versus relative ideal) and reacting to the surprise (initial acceptance versus initial rejection).

Research limitations/implications

By exploring a phenomenon in which children’s anticipation for a vacation is largely absent or limited, surprise family vacations reveal culturally idealized norms and performative practices in family tourism. Positioning a family vacation as an offering or surprise for the children is distinct from previous research, which suggests family vacations are co-created. Children of all ages experience tourism-related stresses and anxieties.

Practical implications

The primary practical contribution for marketers lies in revealing how the material and performative practices of a family vacation begins even before a family enters its tourist destination. Service providers and retailers may provide offerings for families to support surprise family vacations, particularly in an increasingly digital culture. This study also reveals opportunities for parents to strategically discuss surprise vacations with their kids.

Originality/value

This study captures the liminal moment in which a child’s tourism journey begins. By using YouTube as a resource for digital ethnography, researchers can better understand how families discuss, negotiate and mediate tourism-oriented concepts, through their lived experiences.
Prognostic role of soluble ST2 in acute coronary syndrome with diabetes
Authors: Jha Durga , Goenka Luxitaa , Ramamoorthy Thilagavathi , Sharma Masum , Dhandapani Vellala E. , George Melvin
Published: July 2018

Background

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients are at an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The objective of our study was to assess whether cardiac biomarker like soluble ST2 (sST2) can predict MACE among ACS patients with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A total of 122 patients with ACS were included in the study. sST2 level in blood plasma samples was quantified using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Prognostic utility of sST2 for the primary outcome of MACE which included mortality, rehospitalization due to chest pain, unstable angina, recurrent myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, was assessed during follow‐up.

Results

The median follow‐up period was of 180 days. ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve demonstrated that elevated levels of sST2 were able to predict mortality, and MACE in ACS patients, along with increased risk of occurrence of MACE and mortality in ACS patients having diabetes. Kaplan‐Meier plots revealed a significant increase in the occurrence of MACE in diabetic ACS patients (P = 0.006; by log‐rank test). Cox regression analysis revealed that sST2 is not an independent predictor of mortality and MACE in ACS patients having diabetes; however, high sST2 level was found to be a predictor of MACE in all ACS subjects in the fully adjusted model with a hazard ratio (HR) of 5.8 (P = 0.032).

Conclusion

The current study indicates that elevated levels of sST2 might be a suitable biomarker to evaluate the risk of future adverse cardiovascular events in ACS patients with diabetes.
Anti‐insect defenses of Achnatherum robustum (sleepygrass) provided by two Epichloë endophyte species
Authors: Shymanovich Tatsiana , Faeth Stanley H.
Published: July 2018

Many pooid grasses (Poaceae) harbor Epichloë species (Hypocreales), endophytic fungi that often produce toxic alkaloids which may provide anti‐insect protection for their hosts. Two natural populations of Achnatherum robustum (Vasey) (sleepygrass), in the Lincoln National Forest, Cloudcroft, and Weed (NM, USA), are infected with the endophyte species Epichloë funkii (KD Craven & Schardl) JF White and Epichloë sp. nov. We tested whether: (1) these endophytes affect survival, growth, and development of the insect herbivore Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) (fall armyworm), (2) larval diets alter adult fecundity (assessed as number of larvae or eggs produced by females and number of spermatophores that males transfer to females when enclosed in pairs within each feeding group), and (3) infections affect leaf consumption in larval no‐choice and choice experiments. Individual larvae were reared on Epichloë infected vs. uninfected clipped leaves from the Cloudcroft and Weed population plants. Overall, armyworm survival was not affected when fed infected sleepygrass from either population. However, larvae that fed on Weed‐infected plants were smaller and had longer development than larvae that fed on uninfected and Cloudcroft‐infected plants. Males fed on Weed‐infected leaves had reduced mating success. Interestingly, pupal mass increased when larvae fed on either the infected leaf types. However, heavier females from both infected diets did not lay more eggs than lighter females from uninfected diets. In a no‐choice test, larvae on Weed‐infected plants diet consumed more leaf biomass than larvae from three other groups. In choice tests, larvae avoided feeding on leaves infected with either of the endophytes relative to uninfected leaves. Thus, the two Epichloë may provide direct protection to sleepygrass from insect herbivory by deterrence. The Weed population endophyte may provide stronger indirect protection than the Cloudcroft endophyte by reducing insect fitness or increasing risks of predation and parasitism through delayed development, even though larvae may consume more leaf biomass.
Clinical follow‐up of 411 patients with relapsing and progressive multiple sclerosis 10 years after discontinuing mitoxantrone treatment: a real‐life cohort study
Authors: Chartier N. , Epstein J. , Soudant M. , Dahan C. , Michaud M. , Pittion‐Vouyovitch S. , Guillemin F. , Debouverie M. , Mathey G.
Published: July 2018

Background and purpose

Mitoxantrone (MITOX) has been used to treat patients with aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS) for decades. We aimed to describe the effectiveness and adverse events over 10 years post‐MITOX in patients with relapsing and progressive MS from an exhaustive real‐life database.

Methods

Data from patients who received MITOX before 1 January 2006 were collected from the MS Lorraine registry. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores and annual relapse rates (ARRs) year by year during follow‐up and the year prior to MITOX were compared. Time to the first relapse and a 1‐point increase in EDSS score were used in Cox multivariate models to find associations with potential predictive factors.

Results

A total of 411 patients were included. The ARR for the 155 relapsing patients had decreased from 2.0 (SD 1.20) the year before treatment to 0.3 (SD 0.31) by year 10 (P < 0.0001). The EDSS score increased from 2.8 (SD 1.44) to 4.8 (SD 1.90) by year 10 (P < 0.0001). A high ARR at MITOX initiation was associated with a longer time to a 1‐point increase in EDSS score (hazard ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.67–0.99; P = 0.04). The EDSS score in 256 progressive patients increased from 5.0 (SD 1.33) to 6.5 (SD 1.26) by year 10 (P < 0.0001). We identified four cases of acute myeloid leukemias.

Conclusions

Patients with the most active forms of MS are the most likely to benefit from MITOX in the long term.
Study of the possible link of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D with Epstein–Barr virus and human herpesvirus 6 in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pérez‐Pérez S. , Domínguez‐Mozo M. I. , García‐Martínez M. Á. , Aladro Y. , Martínez‐Ginés M. , García‐Domínguez J. M. , López de Silanes C. , Casanova I. , Ortega‐Madueño I. , López‐Lozano L. , Torrejón M. J. , Arroyo R. , Álvarez‐Lafuente R.
Published: July 2018

Background and purpose

Although the causes of multiple sclerosis (MS) remain partially unknown, environmental and genetic factors are thought to play a role in its aetiopathogenesis. Hypovitaminosis D, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6) infections have been described as possible MS triggers. Our aim was to analyse the possible link between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and viruses in patients with MS.

Methods

We included 482 patients with MS in a 2‐year study. Serum samples were collected to analyse 25(OH)D levels and, according to sample availability, antibody titres against EBV and HHV‐6 by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. DNA was extracted from blood in order to analyse EBV and HHV‐6 viral load by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and to genotype MS‐related single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs3135388, rs2248359 and rs12368653) when possible.

Results

The 25(OH)D levels were significantly higher in the first semester of the year than in the second. Carriers of the risk allele rs2248359‐C showed lower 25(OH)D levels than non‐carriers. For EBV, viral load was significantly higher when 25(OH)D levels were low, demonstrating an inverse correlation between 25(OH)D levels and EBV load.

Conclusions

The 25(OH)D levels could be involved in the regulation of EBV replication/reactivation in patients with MS.
Initial Offer Precision and M&A Outcomes
Authors: Hukkanen Petri , Keloharju Matti
Published: July 2018

Building on recent research in social psychology, this paper analyzes the link between the precision of initial cash offers and mergers and acquisition (M&A) outcomes. About one‐half of the offers are made at the precision of one or five dollars per share, while an additional one‐third are made at the precision of a half dollar or one quarter. The practice of making offers at round price‐per‐share levels is associated with a higher purchase price for target shares and a lower probability of deal completion.
Diagnostic ability of a smart phone app (injured tooth) in diagnosing traumatic injuries to the teeth – a multicentre analysis
Authors: Mohan Anusha , Agarwal Tanvi , Cherian Theresa Sam , Muthu Murugan Satta , Balasubramanian Suganya , Subbalekshmi Natesh , Saikia Ankita , Goswami Mridula , Sharma Akhilesh , Subramanian Priya , Johar Smriti , Bazaz Negar
Published: July 2018

Background

Dental trauma is not uncommon. The initial management provided at the time of injury is critical in predicting prognosis. However, initial management depends on correct diagnosis. Recently an App named ‘Injured Tooth’ was made available to diagnose traumatic injuries to the teeth and supporting structures.

Aim

To test the diagnostic ability of the Injured Tooth App compared with the conventional method of diagnosing traumatic injuries to the teeth.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted at three different centres with 176 patients aged 0–15 years, having 201 injured teeth. Diagnosis of the injured teeth in these children at every centre was done independently by one experienced faculty using the traditional method and by a student using the Injured Tooth App.

Results

Injured Tooth App gave a correct diagnosis for 197 teeth included in the study. Statistical analysis showed that there was good agreement (Kappa = 0.973) between the diagnosis given by the App and the experienced faculty.

Conclusions

The study found that the diagnosis given by the Injured Tooth App was in good agreement with the diagnosis given by an experienced faculty. Hence, the App can be successfully used by dental students to arrive at diagnosis.
“Put bluntly, they are targeted by the worst creeps society has to offer”: Police and professionals' views and actions relating to domestic violence and women with intellectual disabilities
Authors: McCarthy Michelle , Bates Claire , Triantafyllopoulou Paraskevi , Hunt Siobhan , Milne Skillman Karen
Published: July 2018

Background

Little is known about the attitudes and practices of key personnel towards the domestic violence experienced by women with intellectual disabilities.

Method

An online survey was conducted of Police officers and health and social care professionals. A total of 717 Police and other professionals across a wide variety of UK sites responded. Research questions were focussed on direct experience, attitudes and responses.

Results

Approximately half of all respondents had direct experience of working with a woman with intellectual disabilities who had been through domestic violence. Professionals were more likely than the Police to see women with intellectual disabilities as being especially vulnerable. The majority of both professionals and Police believed women with intellectual disabilities were deliberately targeted by violent and abusive men.

Conclusions

More training is needed for both the Police and health and social care professionals specifically in domestic violence as it affects women with intellectual disabilities.
Interspecific difference in downstream migratory season between two tropical eels, Anguilla celebesensis and Anguilla marmorata
Authors: Hagihara Seishi , Aoyama Jun , Limbong Daniel , Tsukamoto Katsumi
Published: July 2018

Downstream‐migrating Anguilla celebesensis eels were predominant relative to Anguilla marmorata in October, November, December, January and February (75.9–92%), while no A. celebesensis occurred and A. marmorata were predominant in May and July (96–100%), at the outlet of Poso Lake, Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Merging these results with those from published data suggests that most A. celebesensis start downstream migration during the early to middle rainy season, and A. marmorata migrate almost year‐round with a peak from the late rainy to middle dry season.
Nonsurgical treatment of earlobe aging in Mowlavi stages I and II earlobe ptosis with Hyaluronic acid fillers
Authors: Di Gregorio Carlo , D'Arpa Salvatore
Published: July 2018

Background

Earlobe deflation caused by fat atrophy is normally treated with lipofilling, mostly in the context of facelift surgery. In this report, we aim at reporting on Hyaluronic Acid injections to treat earlobe deflation.

Materials and Methods

16 Mowlavi Grade I and II patients were treated with HA injections, followed by molding to shape the lobule.

Results

Effective correction, lasting 14 months on average, is achieved. Five patients needed a touch‐up procedure after 4‐6 months to improve the result.

Conclusions

Earlobe augmentation with HA is an ideal option for correction of earlobe atrophy in cases of Mowlavi Grades I and II ptosis. Long‐lasting (about 14 months) correction is achieved with no downtime.
Factors associated with emergency cesarean delivery during induction of labor in nulliparous women aged 35 years or older at term
Authors: Nakano Takahiro , Muto Haruka , Ishii Keisuke , Hayashi Shusaku , Okamoto Yoko , Mitsuda Nobuaki
Published: July 2018

Aim

To examine the intrapartum cesarean delivery rate following failure of induction of labor (IOL) as well as risk factors associated with failed IOL among nulliparous women of advanced maternal age (AMA).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at a single perinatal care center. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of nulliparous AMA women (aged 35 years or older) with singleton vertex pregnancy who underwent IOL at term. Data regarding maternal baseline characteristics and pregnancy course, including complications during pregnancy and maternal status at time of IOL, were collected. Rate of emergency cesarean section (eCS) as well as risk factors associated with failed IOL were investigated by means of logistic regression analysis.

Results

Among 234 women included in this study, 103 (44%) had failed IOL and delivered by eCS. Hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0–4.12; P = 0.025) and unfavorable cervical status (aOR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.08–3.41; P = 0.038) were identified as independent risk factors for failed IOL.

Conclusion

IOL failed in 44% of nulliparous AMA women. Hypertensive disorder and immature cervical status should be considered as independent risk factors for eCS among such women.
Late relapse of hepatitis C virus in patients with sustained virological response after daclatasvir and asunaprevir therapy
Authors: Hayashi Kazuhiko , Ishigami Masatoshi , Ishizu Yoji , Kuzuya Teiji , Honda Takashi , Hirooka Yoshiki , Toyoda Hidenori , Kumada Takashi , Hattori Masashi , Katano Yoshiaki , Goto Hidemi
Published: July 2018

The optimal term of follow‐up for patients who achieve sustained virological responses (SVR) is an important topic because of the widespread use of direct‐acting antivirals (DAA), which achieve a high SVR rate. Investigations of long‐term follow‐up among patients with SVR after interferon (IFN) therapy have reported that approximately 80%‐100% of patients maintained SVR. However, the long‐term durability of SVR to DAA treatment is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of late relapse in patients who achieved SVR with daclatasvir (DCV) and asunaprevir (ASV). Four hundred and thirteen patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b who completed ASV and DCV treatment and achieved SVR were selected. Patients who were persistently negative for serum HCV RNA at 24 weeks after withdrawal of DCV and ASV were considered to have SVR24. Mean follow‐up period was 21.5 months (range, 4.8‐30.3 months) after SVR24. Four patients redeveloped HCV RNA in serum at 6, 12, 12 and 26 months, respectively, after achieving SVR24. Results of molecular analysis by phylogenetic tree of HCV nonstructural protein 3 and 5A regions from late relapse indicated that the same strain was present at pretreatment and late relapse. In conclusion, late relapse by the original HCV strain was confirmed by direct sequencing in 4 of 413 patients with SVR to ASV and DCV. Although a few patients may develop late relapse, SVR achieved with all oral DAA therapy is as durable as that with IFN therapy.
Tree, sex and size: Ecological determinants of male vs. female fecundity in threeFagus sylvaticastands
Authors: Oddou‐Muratorio Sylvie , Gauzere Julie , Bontemps Aurore , Rey Jean‐François , Klein Etienne K.
Published: July 2018

Interindividual variation in fecundities has major consequences on population evolutionary potential, through genetic drift and selection. Using two spatially explicit mating models that analyse the genotypes of seeds and seedlings, we investigated the variation of male and female fecundities within and among three European beech (Fagus sylvatica) stands situated along an altitudinal gradient. Female and male individual fecundity distributions were both skewed in this monoecious species, and we found a higher variance in female as compared to male fecundities. Both female and male fecundities increased with tree size and decreased with density and competition in the neighbourhood, the details of these effects suggesting sex‐specific strategies to deal with the impact of limited resource on fecundity. The studied populations were functionally male‐biased. Among‐individual variations in functional gender were not driven by tree size but by density and competition in the neighbourhood. Femaleness decreased under limited resource availability, an expected consequence of the higher cost of female reproduction. Considering the variation of gene flow and genetic drift across elevation, our results suggest that the adaptive potential could be enhanced by low genetic drift at low elevation, and by high pollen‐mediated gene flow at high elevation. Finally, this study predicts a more efficient response to selection for traits related to male vs. female fitness, for a given selection intensity.
Biosynthesis of the yellow xanthomonadin pigments involves an ATP‐dependent 3‐hydroxybenzoic acid: acyl carrier protein ligase and an unusual type II polyketide synthase pathway
Authors: Cao, Xue‐Qiang , Wang, Jia‐Yuan , Zhou Lian , Chen, Bo , Jin, Yu , He Ya‐Wen
Published: July 2018

Xanthomonadins are yellow pigments that are produced by the phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc). A pig cluster is responsible for xanthomonadin biosynthesis. Previously, Xcc4014 of the cluster was characterized as a bifunctional chorismatase that produces 3‐hydroxybenzoic acid (3‐HBA) and 4‐HBA. In this study, genetic analysis identified 11 genes within the pig cluster to be essential for xanthomonadin biosynthesis. Biochemical and bioinformatics analysis suggest that xanthomonadins are synthesized via an unusual type II polyketide synthase pathway. Heterologous expression of the pig cluster in non‐xanthomonadin‐producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain resulted in the synthesis of chlorinated xanthomonadin‐like pigments. Further analysis showed that xanC encodes an acyl carrier protein (ACP) while xanA2 encodes a ATP‐dependent 3‐HBA:ACP ligase. Both of them act together to catalyse the formation of 3‐HBA‐S‐ACP from 3‐HBA to initiate xanthomonadin biosynthesis. Finally, we showed that xanH encodes a FabG‐like enzyme and xanK encodes a novel glycosyltransferase. Both xanH and xanK are not only required for xanthomonadin biosynthesis, but also required for the balanced biosynthesis of extracellular polysaccharides and DSF‐family quorum sensing signals. These findings provide us with a better understanding of xanthomonadin biosynthetic mechanisms and directly demonstrate the presence of extensive cross‐talk among xanthomonadin biosynthetic pathways and other metabolic pathways.
Genome‐wide association studies and expression‐based quantitative trait loci analyses reveal roles of HCT2 in caffeoylquinic acid biosynthesis and its regulation by defense‐responsive transcription factors in Populus
Authors: Zhang Jin , Yang Yongil , Zheng Kaijie , Xie Meng , Feng Kai , Jawdy Sara S. , Gunter Lee E. , Ranjan Priya , Singan Vasanth R. , Engle Nancy , Lindquist Erika , Barry Kerrie , Schmutz Jeremy , Zhao Nan , Tschaplinski Timothy J. , LeBoldus Jared , Tuskan Gerald A. , Chen Jin‐Gui , Muchero Wellington
Published: July 2018

3‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid, also known as chlorogenic acid (CGA), functions as an intermediate in lignin biosynthesis in the phenylpropanoid pathway. It is widely distributed among numerous plant species and acts as an antioxidant in both plants and animals.

Using GC‐MS, we discovered consistent and extreme variation in CGA content across a population of 739 4‐yr‐old Populus trichocarpa accessions. We performed genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) from 917 P. trichocarpa accessions and expression‐based quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analyses to identify key regulators.

The GWAS and eQTL analyses resolved an overlapped interval encompassing a hydroxycinnamoyl‐CoA:shikimate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase 2 (PtHCT2) that was significantly associated with CGA and partially characterized metabolite abundances. PtHCT2 leaf expression was significantly correlated with CGA abundance and it was regulated by cis‐eQTLs containing W‐box for WRKY binding. Among all nine PtHCT homologs, PtHCT2 is the only one that responds to infection by the fungal pathogen Sphaerulina musiva (a Populus pathogen). Validation using protoplast‐based transient expression system suggests that PtHCT2 is regulated by the defense‐responsive WRKY.

These results are consistent with reports of CGA functioning as an antioxidant in response to biotic stress. This study provides insights into data‐driven and omics‐based inference of gene function in woody species.
Leaf anatomical traits determine the 18O enrichment of leaf water in coastal halophytes
Authors: Liang Jie , Wright Jonathan S. , Cui Xiaowei , Sternberg Leonel , Gan Weixiu , Lin Guanghui
Published: July 2018

Anatomical adaptations to high‐salinity environments in mangrove leaves may be recorded in leaf water isotopes. Recent studies observed lower 18O enrichment (ΔL) of leaf water with respect to source water in three mangrove species relative to adjacent freshwater trees, but the factors that govern this phenomenon remain unclear. To resolve this issue, we investigated leaf traits and ΔL in 15 species of true mangrove plants, 14 species of adjacent freshwater trees, and 4 species of semi‐mangrove plants at five study sites along south‐eastern coast of China. Our results confirm that ΔL was generally 3–4‰ lower for mangrove species than for adjacent freshwater or semi‐mangrove species. We hypothesized that higher leaf water content (LWC) and lower leaf stomatal density (LS) both played important roles in reducing ΔL in mangroves relative to nearby freshwater plants. Both differences acted to elongate effective leaf mixing length (L) in mangroves by about 200% and lower stomatal conductance by about 30%. Péclet models based on both LWC and LS could accurately predict ΔL. Our findings highlight the potential species‐specific anatomical determinants of ΔL (or L), which has important implications for the interpretation of environmental information from metabolites produced by leaf water isotopes in palaeoclimate research.
The impact of donor/recipient age difference and HLA mismatch on graft outcome in pediatric kidney transplantation
Authors: Trnka Peter , McTaggart Steven J. , Francis Anna
Published: July 2018

Background

Understanding the relationship between the factors that influence long‐term kidney transplant survival remains a key priority for pediatric nephrologists. We assessed the relative impact of donor/recipient age difference and HLA matching on long‐term graft outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pediatric and adolescent recipients who received a primary kidney transplant in Australia and New Zealand between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2015. The primary outcome was graft survival analyzed by Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

During the 26‐year period, 1134 primary (395 DD and 739 LD) kidney transplants were performed in recipients less than 20 years of age. The median follow‐up time was 10.2 years. Overall, 405 patients (35.7%) lost their transplant with graft survival 93.8% at 1 year, 82.5% at 5 years, 65.8% at 10 years, and 49.9% at 15 years post‐transplant. There was consistently higher graft loss of DD kidneys as compared to LD kidneys at each time point. Both increasing donor/recipient age difference (aHR 1.11 per 10 years; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.20; P = 0.009) and increasing HLA mismatch (aHR 1.20 per mismatch; 95% CI, 1.10‐1.30; P < 0.001) were associated with decreased graft survival.

Conclusions

Donor/recipient age difference and HLA matching are important factors influencing long‐term graft outcomes in pediatric kidney transplantation. HLA mismatch remains a strong predictor of graft loss. For patients without the option of a LD, we suggest that the degree of HLA mismatch should not be discounted as part of the decision‐making process of organ allocation.
Continuous positive airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnoea does not improve asthma control
Authors: Ng Susanna S.S. , Chan Tat‐On , To Kin‐Wang , Chan Ken K.P. , Ngai Jenny , Yip Wing‐Ho , Lo Rachel L.P. , Ko Fanny W.S. , Hui David S.C.
Published: July 2018

Background and objective

Unrecognized obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) may lead to poor asthma control despite optimal therapy. We assessed asthma control, airway responsiveness, daytime sleepiness and health status at baseline and 3 months after continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment among asthma patients with nocturnal symptoms and OSAS.

Methods

Patients with nocturnal asthma symptoms despite receiving at least moderate‐dose inhaled corticosteroid and long‐acting bronchodilators underwent a home sleep study using ‘Embletta’ portable diagnostic system. Patients with significant OSAS (apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥10/h) were randomized to receive either CPAP or conservative treatment for 3 months.

Results

Among 145 patients recruited, 122 underwent sleep study with 41 (33.6%) having AHI ≥10/h. Patients with significant OSAS had higher BMI (27.4 (5.1) vs 25.1 (4.5) kg/m2, P = 0.016), bigger neck circumference (36.6 (3.1) vs 34.8 (3.6) cm, P = 0.006) and lower minimum SaO2 (80.7 (6.6) vs 87.2 (3.9) %, P < 0.001). Using intention‐to‐treat analysis among 37 patients with AHI ≥10/h (CPAP group (n = 17) vs control group (n = 20)), there was no significant difference in Asthma Control Test score (CPAP 3.2 (2.7) vs control 2.4 (5.7), P = 0.568) but the CPAP group had a greater improvement in Epworth Sleepiness Scale (−3.0 (4.5) vs 0.5(3.8), P = 0.014), Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (0.6 (0.8) vs 0.02 (0.7), P = 0.022) and vitality domain in the SF‐36 questionnaire (14.7 (16.8) vs 0.3 (16.2), P = 0.012) after 3 months. Data are presented as mean (SD) unless otherwise stated.

Conclusion

A high prevalence of OSAS was found among patients with asthma and snoring. CPAP therapy for 3 months did not enhance asthma control but improved daytime sleepiness, quality of life and vitality.
Nature and nurture shape the microbiome
Authors: Cohen Louis J.
Published: July 2018

Host and microbial tryptophan metabolism work together to regulate gut mucosal barrier function and metabolic disease.
A New Hope
for chronic myocardial ischemia
Authors: Jay Steven M.
Published: July 2018

Intramyocardial injection of mesenchymal stem cell–derived extracellular vesicles enhances angiogenesis and improves cardiac function in a swine model of chronic myocardial ischemia.
Effectiveness of simulation in psychiatry for initial and continuing training of healthcare professionals: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Piot Marie-Aude , Dechartres Agnès , Guerrier Gilles , Lemogne Cédric , Layat-Burn Carine , Falissard Bruno , Tesniere Antoine
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Although most healthcare professionals must deal with patients with mental illness, many are not prepared for the various situations that can ensue. Simulation may be a powerful pedagogical tool for simultaneously teaching knowledge, skills and attitudes. We aim to assess the effectiveness of simulation for initial and continuous training in psychiatry for healthcare professionals.

Methods and analysis

A comprehensive search for randomised and non-randomised controlled studies and single-group pretest/post-test reports will be conducted in electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, CINAHL, PsychINFO, ERIC, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and the Web of Science (Science and Social Sciences Citation Index), with a detailed query. The reference lists of selected studies, key journals and trial registers will also be searched for additional studies. Two independent reviewers, following predefined inclusion criteria, will screen titles and abstracts first and then the full texts of the remaining articles. A third author will evaluate discrepancies to reach a consensus. It will include randomised controlled trial (RCT), non-RCT, pre-test/post-test design studies, post-test design for satisfaction evaluation and qualitative studies. Risk of bias will be assessed by using the Cochrane Collaboration Tool for assessing risk of bias in RCTs. Meta-analyses will be performed if we find sufficient studies that assess predefined outcomes and if their characteristics are not too different. The quality of evidence will be assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. A narrative synthesis will be performed for qualitative studies and when meta-analyses are deemed not possible.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics permission is not required. Dissemination will be through publication in peer-reviewed journals, national and international conferences, and the lead author’s doctoral dissertation.

Trial registration number

CRD42017078779.
Performance of a Framingham cardiovascular risk model among Indians and Europeans in New Zealand and the role of body mass index and social deprivation
Authors: Rabanal Kjersti Stormark , Meyer Haakon Eduard , Pylypchuk Romana , Mehta Suneela , Selmer Randi Marie , Jackson Rodney T
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To evaluate a Framingham 5-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk score in Indians and Europeans in New Zealand, and determine whether body mass index (BMI) and socioeconomic deprivation were independent predictors of CVD risk.

Methods

We included Indians and Europeans, aged 30–74 years without prior CVD undergoing risk assessment in New Zealand primary care during 2002–2015 (n=256 446). Risk profiles included standard Framingham predictors (age, sex, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein ratio, smoking and diabetes) and were linked with national CVD hospitalisations and mortality datasets. Discrimination was measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) and calibration examined graphically. We used Cox regression to study the impact of BMI and deprivation on the risk of CVD with and without adjustment for the Framingham score.

Results

During follow-up, 8105 and 1156 CVD events occurred in Europeans and Indians, respectively. Higher AUCs of 0.76 were found in Indian men (95% CI 0.74 to 0.78) and women (95% CI 0.73 to 0.78) compared with 0.74 (95% CI 0.73 to 0.74) in European men and 0.72 (95% CI 0.71 to 0.73) in European women. Framingham was best calibrated in Indian men, and overestimated risk in Indian women and in Europeans. BMI and deprivation were positively associated with CVD, also after adjustment for the Framingham risk score, although the BMI association was attenuated.

Conclusions

The Framingham risk model performed reasonably well in Indian men, but overestimated risk in Indian women and in Europeans. BMI and socioeconomic deprivation could be useful predictors in addition to a Framingham score.
A self-updating digital chaotic stream cipher
Authors: Zhong Jin , Jiang Dong , Huang Qi-Guo , Cao Yang
Published: July 2018

Chaotic cryptography has been extensively investigated over the past three decades, especially in the field of digital chaotic cryptography. In this paper, we propose a new digital chaotic stream cipher based on double piecewise linear chaotic maps. It initially takes four real numbers as the key, periodically updates the chaotic maps, and efficiently outputs the bit strings. Theoretical analysis shows that our protocol achieves higher anti-cryptanalysis capacities, effectively alleviates the dynamical degradation problem, and thus reaches higher security. Statistical evaluation demonstrates that our protocol can generate bit strings with outstanding statistical properties. In addition, we apply our protocol to image encryption and decryption. Experimental results verify the conclusions of the statistical evaluation, and prove the strong sensitivity of the protocol to the key.
Models of charged self-gravitating source in f(R,T) theory
Authors: Sharif M. , Siddiqa Aisha
Published: July 2018

We discuss the anisotropic nonstatic charged spherical source describing the phenomena of collapse and expansion in the context of [Formula: see text] theory ([Formula: see text] is the Ricci scalar and [Formula: see text] is the trace of energy–momentum tensor). The Einstein–Maxwell field equations are formulated and an auxiliary solution is considered. We evaluate the corresponding expansion scalar [Formula: see text] and investigate the cases of collapse [Formula: see text] and expansion ([Formula: see text]). In both cases, we explore the influence of charge as well as model parameter on density, radial/tangential pressure, anisotropic parameter and mass through graphs. It is observed that the physical parameters vary with time for expansion while remain constant for collapse. However, the change with respect to the radial coordinate is the same for both cases. The model parameter has the same impact in both cases while charge affects only in the case of collapse. The energy conditions are satisfied for both solutions with particular values of the parameters.
Non-ohmic resistance effects of the AZO and TiZO as a blocking layer in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs)
Authors: Arsyad Wa Ode Sukmawati , Januari Ahmad , Jumalia  , Ilmawati Waode Sitti , Usman Ida , Hidayat Rahmat
Published: July 2018

Presented in this paper is the result of a study on the utilization of Al-doped ZnO (AZO) and Ti-doped ZnO (TiZO) as a blocking layer (BL) in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs). The DSSCs structure was FTO/BL/TiO2/dye/electrolyte/Pt on FTO. The crystallinity and crystallite size of those BLs were shown to be affected by the dopant type and its concentration. From the photovoltaic characteristics of those DSSCs, the TiZO layer showed better contribution in enhancing the open voltage as a BL in comparison to the AZO. The effect of these layers on the solar cell characteristics in the fabricated DSSCs was found to be not merely due to the difference in their Ohmic resistance. There is also the contribution of back recombination kinetics from the photoexcited electrons via the dopant states in the AZO and TiZO layers, which are different among the layers due to the difference in dopant states distributions below their conduction bands.
Possible implications of a reactor-status effect on the β+ decay rate of 22Na
Authors: de Meijer Robert J. , Limburg Han , Dieleman Pieter
Published: July 2018

Recently, a reproducible reactor-status effect was measured for the decay of [Formula: see text]Na. However, the effect was not observable for the [Formula: see text] decay of [Formula: see text]Co. Since no systematic cause for this effect was found, the possibility exists that it is caused by an interaction of reactor antineutrinos with the source nucleus. The observed effect is 18 orders of magnitude larger than for the antineutrino capture of a free proton. A possible explanation is a final-state interaction between the incoming antineutrino and a neutrino in the source nucleus. The effect has still to be confirmed by an independent measurement. In this paper, the consequences for applications in monitoring nuclear facilities are discussed, as well as the consequences for fundamental physics and the opportunities for resolving some outstanding questions about neutrino properties.
Fog Computing‐Assisted Energy‐Efficient Resource Allocation for High‐Mobility MIMO‐OFDMA Networks
Authors: Lu Lingyun , Wang Tian , Ni Wei , Li Kai , Gao Bo
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a suboptimal approach for resource allocation of massive MIMO‐OFDMA systems for high‐speed train (HST) applications. An optimization problem is formulated to alleviate the severe Doppler effect and maximize the energy efficiency (EE) of the system. We propose to decouple the problem between the allocations of antennas, subcarriers, and transmit powers and solve the problem by carrying out the allocations separately and iteratively in an alternating manner. Fast convergence can be achieved for the proposed approach within only several iterations. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is superior to existing techniques in terms of system EE and throughput in different system configurations of HST applications.