bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A receptor‐like protein from Nicotiana benthamiana mediates VmE02 PAMP‐triggered immunity
Authors: Nie Jiajun , Zhou Wenjing , Liu Jianying , Tan Ni , Zhou Jian‐Min , Huang Lili
Published: October 2020

Plants use their innate immune system to defend against phytopathogens. As a part of this, pattern triggered‐immunity is activated via pattern recognition receptor (PRR) detection of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Although an increasing number of PAMPs have been identified, the PRRs for their recognition remain largely unknown.

In the present study, we report a receptor‐like protein RE02 (Response to VmE02) in Nicotiana benthamiana, which mediates the perception of VmE02, a PAMP previously identified from the phytopathogenic fungus Valsa mali, using virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS), co‐immunoprecipitation, pull‐down and microscale thermophoresis assays.

We show that silencing of RE02 markedly attenuated VmE02‐triggred cell death and immune responses. RE02 specifically interacted with VmE02 in vivo and in vitro, and it displayed a high affinity for VmE02. Formation of a complex with the receptor‐like kinases SOBIR1 and BAK1 was essential for RE02 to perceive VmE02. Moreover, RE02‐silenced plants exhibited enhanced susceptibility to both the oomycete Phytophthora capsici and the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, while overexpression of RE02 increased plant resistance to these pathogens.

Together, our results indicate that the PAMP VmE02 and the receptor‐like protein RE02 represent a new ligand–receptor pair in plant immunity, and that RE02 represents a promising target for engineering disease resistance.
Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome: Anesthetic considerations and practical recommendations
Authors: Franzen Marcellene H. , LeRiger Michelle M. , Pellegrino Kaitlyn P. , Kugler Jane A. , Rizzo William B.
Published: October 2020

Background

Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome is a rare inherited neurocutaneous disorder characterized by congenital ichthyosis, spasticity, intellectual disability, seizures, and ophthalmologic changes. Most individuals with Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome live well into adulthood and often require surgical intervention to manage their symptomatology.

Aims

The aim of this work was to review the clinical aspects of Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome, highlight the unique anesthetic considerations associated with this disease, and provide practical recommendations about anesthetic management.

Methods

A retrospective case review from February 2013 to October 2019 was performed based on subject participation in a Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome longitudinal study at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Anesthetic and surgical records were reviewed for the following data: age, sex, relevant comorbid conditions, anesthetic induction and maintenance agents, intravenous and oral analgesics, muscle relaxants, and anesthetic‐related complications.

Results

Fourteen patients with Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome undergoing 48 anesthetic events were identified. A variety of anesthetic techniques was utilized. No serious adverse events were encountered. The most common clinical observations were related to the ichthyosis seen in Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome, which led to difficulty in adherence of electrocardiogram leads and intravenous catheter dressings.

Conclusions

We found that anesthesia can be safely administered in patients with Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome. Providers should be aware of anesthetic management issues in Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome including challenges placing and securing lines and monitors secondary to the ichthyosis.
Downy mildew resistance is genetically mediated by prophylactic production of phenylpropanoids in hop
Authors: Feiner Alexander , Pitra Nicholi , Matthews Paul , Pillen Klaus , Wessjohann Ludger A. , Riewe David
Published: October 2020

Downy mildew in hop (Humulus lupulus L.) is caused by Pseudoperonospora humuli and generates significant losses in quality and yield. To identify the biochemical processes that confer natural downy mildew resistance (DMR), a metabolome‐ and genome‐wide association study was performed. Inoculation of a high density genotyped F1 hop population (n = 192) with the obligate biotrophic oomycete P. humuli led to variation in both the levels of thousands of specialized metabolites and DMR. We observed that metabolites of almost all major phytochemical classes were induced 48 hr after inoculation. But only a small number of metabolites were found to be correlated with DMR and these were enriched with phenylpropanoids. These metabolites were also correlated with DMR when measured from the non‐infected control set. A genome‐wide association study revealed co‐localization of the major DMR loci and the phenylpropanoid pathway markers indicating that the major contribution to resistance is mediated by these metabolites in a heritable manner. The application of three putative prophylactic phenylpropanoids led to a reduced degree of leaf infection in susceptible genotypes, confirming their protective activity either directly or as precursors of active compounds.
Effect of general anesthesia on delayed repeat enema in pediatric intussusception
Authors: Elzeneini Wael M.
Published: October 2020

Background

The study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of delayed repeated enema (DRE) and to evaluate the effect of general anesthesia (GA) on DRE.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of all children below 3 years with primary intussusception who were offered DRE in our tertiary center, from 2014 until 2019.

Following a standardized pneumatic enema protocol, those who showed a partially successful result were offered DRE 2 h later, either awake (Group A) or under GA (Group B). DRE under GA was our preferred procedure unless there were no pediatric anesthetists available at that time. Data collected for each group included age, sex, duration of symptoms, success rate of the DRE, and any complications noted.

Results

The study included 57 children (32 males and 25 females). The median age in Group A (31 patients) was 10 months while in Group B (26 patients) it was 11 months. The number of patients with duration of symptoms < 24 h vs > 24 h was 12:19 and 9:17 in Group A and B patients respectively. DRE was successful in 14/31 (45.2%) of Group A patients with one complication and in 9/26 (34.6%) of Group B patients with no complications.

There was no statistically significant difference between both groups’ success rate and complication rate. Both groups were similar in age, sex, and duration of symptoms.

Conclusions

DRE can effectively increase the overall success rate of pneumatic enema in selected patients with pediatric intussusception. However, the current evidence does not justify the routine use of GA during attempts DRE attempts.
Plant growth shapes the effects of elevation on the content and variability of flavonoids in subalpine bilberry stands
Authors: Filippi A. , Braidot E. , Petrussa E. , Fabro M. , Vuerich M. , Boscutti F.
Published: October 2020

The study of morphological and physiological responses of shrubs to climate is crucial for the understanding of future scenarios regarding climate change. In this light, studying shrub growth and physiological acclimation along an elevation gradient might be insightful. The phenolic metabolic pathway represents a powerful tool to interpret such processes.

In the South‐Eastern Alps, we investigated the relationships between elevation, plant traits (i.e. age, xylem ring width, annual shoot length), plant–plant interaction (i.e. shrub cover) and flavonoids in Vaccinium myrtillus L. (leaves, berries) in stands above the treeline. The relationships were parsed within causal networks using a confirmatory path analysis.

Elevation was the main driver of V. myrtillus growth, having both direct and indirect effects on the leaf flavonoid content, but this was less evident for berries. In particular, the content of foliar flavonoids showed a peak at mid‐elevation and where the growth of xylem rings was intermediate, while it decreased in stands with higher shoot length. Flavonoid content variability of both leaves and berries was affected by elevation and shoot length. In berries, flavonoid variability was further related to all growth traits and shrub cover.

These findings evidence that flavonoid content is influenced by both elevation and growth traits of V. myrtillus, often showing non‐linear relationships. These results suggest a trait‐mediated response of this plant to climate conditions as a result of trade‐offs between plant growth, plant defence, environmental stress and nutrient/resource availability.
Plasma‐activated water inhibits in vitro conidial germination of Colletotrichum alienum, a postharvest pathogen of avocado
Authors: Siddique Sharmin S. , Hardy Giles E. St. J. , Bayliss Kirsty L.
Published: October 2020

Cold plasma, an ionized gas produced by applying an electrical current to air, can be used to produce plasma‐activated water (PAW), which has excellent antimicrobial properties. In this study PAW was applied to conidia of Colletotrichum alienum to investigate its impact on conidial germination in vitro. PAW was produced by treating tap, deionized, or distilled water with cold plasma for 30 or 60 min to produce PAW30 or PAW60, each of which was then incubated for up to 24 hr with a conidial suspension of C. alienum in a ratio of 1:1, 1:2, or 1:3 (conidial suspension:PAW), and the percentage germination measured. The greatest reduction in germination occurred when conidia were incubated with PAW60 produced from deionized water or distilled water, for all ratios. For PAW30, deionized water was the most effective for all three ratios, and on this basis, deionized water was selected for all further experiments. PAW produced from smaller volumes of water and at shorter distances from the cold plasma source was more effective at reducing germination. Treatment of conidia with acidified water was not as effective as PAW at inhibiting germination. Nitrates and nitrites were present in the PAW in varying concentrations and may have contributed to the inhibition of germination. PAW retained activity and reduced germination even after storage for 15 days. These findings demonstrate the potential of PAW as a novel treatment for postharvest fungal pathogens.
(Almost) all Quiet Over One and a Half Years: A Longitudinal Study on Causality Between Key Determinants of Private Flood Mitigation
Authors: Seebauer Sebastian , Babcicky Philipp
Published: October 2020

Previous studies do not agree on the strengths and directions of the effects between risk appraisal, nonprotective, and protective responses in private flood mitigation. This may be due to the widespread use of cross‐sectional survey designs, which infer causality from theoretical considerations alone. The present longitudinal study, in contrast, builds on the logic that cause precedes effect to confirm the direction of effects.

Drawing on two‐wave survey data from 554 flood‐prone households in Austria, cross‐lagged autoregressive models analyze pairwise combinations between risk perception, fear, five nonprotective responses (fatalism, denial, wishful thinking, reliance on social support, reliance on public protection), and seven specific protective responses (ranging from coordination with neighbors to structural modifications of the building). These factors show substantial temporal stability, in particular for nonprotective responses and fear. Only in very few instances can effects over time be confirmed statistically. Nonprotective responses emerge as the major drivers; foremost, denial, and reliance on public protection limit private flood mitigation.

This overall null finding on causality may trace back to the 1.5 years’ time span and the absence of any policy intervention or flood disaster between survey waves, and the high stability of protection motivation theory components. This finding puts into question the theoretically assumed causal relationships and the effects found in cross‐sectional studies. The high trait‐like stability requires perseverance in risk management efforts to change attitudes and capabilities. Finding nonprotective responses as key determinants in an overall picture of stability suggests that this factor merits a stronger role in future risk research.
Risk Perception and Risk Analysis in a Hyperpartisan and Virtuously Violent World
Authors: Slovic Paul
Published: October 2020

I shall discuss, from a personal perspective, research on risk perception that has created an understanding of the dynamic interplay between an appreciation of risk that resides in us as a feeling and an appreciation of risk that results from analysis. In some circumstances, feelings reflect important social values that deserve to be considered along with traditional analyses of physical and economic risk. In other situations, both feelings and analyses may be shaped by powerful cognitive biases and deep social and partisan prejudices, causing nonrational judgments and decisions. This is of concern if risk analysis is to be applied, as it needs to be, in managing existential threats such as pandemic disease, climate change, or nuclear weapons amidst a divisive political climate.
Demand shocks, financial costs, and export margins: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Bo , Hong Junjie , Jing Ran , Sun Xiaonan
Published: October 2020

China’s export value dropped dramatically during the recession in 2008–2009. Surprisingly, its extensive margins increased. We extend the Melitz (2003) model by allowing exporters to rely on external finance to cover production costs. Our model shows that both intensive and extensive margins are more sensitive to demand shocks than to interest rate shocks, and products with smaller elasticity of substitution are more likely to experience an increase in extensive margin and a decrease in intensive margin during a recession when expansionary monetary policies counteract negative demand shocks. More general predictions are supported by Chinese export data in 2007–2011.
The Changing Education Distribution and Income Inequality in Great Britain
Authors: Tasseva Iva Valentinova
Published: October 2020

Over the past years, education attainment has increased at an unprecedented rate in Great Britain. We analyze how the education expansion affected inequality in household net incomes since the early 2000s. We show that, all else being equal, education composition changes led to higher living standards mostly through higher wages. As education expansion led to larger income gains in the middle and top than at the bottom of the distribution, income inequality increased. Despite the increasing share of high‐educated workers, we find limited evidence of a “compression” effect on inequality, as the higher education wage premium remained broadly unchanged.
Predictive value of physical fitness on self‐rated health: A longitudinal study
Authors: Hanssen‐Doose Anke , Kunina‐Habenicht Olga , Oriwol Doris , Niessner Claudia , Woll Alexander , Worth Annette
Published: October 2020

Background

The self‐rated health of adolescents and young adults is important for estimating future morbidities and mortality. Little is known about how physical fitness in younger populations predicts self‐rated health. This longitudinal study (2003‐2017) aims to explore the effects of physical fitness on self‐rated health on the basis of the German population–based study KiGGS and its in‐depth study, MoMo.

Methods

Self‐rated health was assessed using a one‐item scale, and physical fitness was measured with seven test items covering the dimensions of coordination, muscular fitness, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Longitudinal analyses were conducted using the structural equation modeling approach in Mplus 8.0 using the maximum likelihood estimator.

Results

The longitudinal samples of the KiGGS/MoMo study (T1, n = 2376; T2, n = 2821; and T3, n = 2047) had a mean age of 8.5, 14.8, and 20.0 years at T1, T2, and T3, respectively. All measurement and structural models had excellent model fits. While the results of the latent regression analysis indicated moderate‐to‐high stability for the coordination and muscular fitness dimensions, only low‐to‐moderate stability coefficients were found for cardiorespiratory fitness and self‐rated health. Furthermore, small significant cross‐lagged regression coefficients revealed that coordination and muscular fitness predicted self‐rated health at later measurement points.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first longitudinal study to demonstrate the positive predictive value of two dimensions of physical fitness, coordination and muscular fitness, on self‐rated health at a later stage. The public health implications are highlighted.
Positive and negative side effects of androgen abuse. The HAARLEM study: A one‐year prospective cohort study in 100 men
Authors: Smit Diederik L. , Buijs Madelon M. , de Hon Olivier , den Heijer Martin , de Ronde Willem
Published: October 2020

An estimated 4‐6% of fitness center visitors uses anabolic‐androgenic steroids (AAS). Reliable data about adverse reactions of AAS are scarce. The HAARLEM study aimed to provide insight into the positive and negative effects of AAS use. One hundred men (≥18 years) who intended to start an AAS cycle on short notice were included for follow‐up. Clinic visits took place before (T0), at the end (T1), and three months after the end of the AAS cycle (T2), and one year after the start of the cycle (T3), and comprised a medical history, physical examination, laboratory analysis, and psychological questionnaires. During the follow‐up period, four subjects reported a serious adverse event, that is, congestive heart failure, acute pancreatitis, suicidal ideation, and exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. All subjects reported positive side effects during AAS use, mainly increased strength (100%), and every subject reported at least one negative health effect. Most common were fluid retention (56%) and agitation (36%) during the cycle, and decreased libido (58%) after the cycle. Acne and gynecomastia were observed in 28% and 19%. Mean alanine transaminase (ALT) and creatinine increased 18.7 U/l and 4.7 µmol/L, respectively. AAS dose and cycle duration were not associated with the type and severity of side effects. After one‐year follow‐up (T3), the prevalence of observed effects had returned to baseline. There was no significant change in total scores of questionnaires investigating wellbeing, quality of life, and depression. In conclusion, all subjects experienced positive effects during AAS use. Four subjects experienced a serious adverse event. Other side effects were mostly anticipated, mild, and transient.
Training load but not fatigue affects cross‐education of maximal voluntary force
Authors: Colomer‐Poveda David , Romero‐Arenas Salvador , Fariñas Juan , Iglesias‐Soler Eliseo , Hortobágyi Tibor , Márquez Gonzalo
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of training load (25% vs. 75% of one repetition maximum [1RM]) and fatigue (failure vs. non‐failure) during four weeks of unilateral knee extension resistance training (RT) on maximal voluntary force in the trained and the untrained knee extensors. Healthy young adults (n = 42) were randomly assigned to control (CON, n = 9, 24 ± 4.3 years), low‐load RT to failure (LLF, n = 11, 21 ± 1.3 years, three sets to failure at 25% of 1RM), high‐load RT to failure (HLF, n = 11, 21 ± 1.4 years, three sets to failure at 75% of 1RM), and high‐load RT without failure (HLNF, n = 11, 22 ± 1.5 years, six sets of five repetitions at 75% of 1RM) groups. Before and after the four weeks of training, 1RM, maximal voluntary isometric force, and corticospinal excitability (CSE) were measured. 1RM in the trained (20%, d = 0.70, 15%, d = 0.61) and the untrained knee extensors (5%, d = 0.27, 6%, d = 0.26) increased only in the HLF and HLNF groups, respectively. MVIC force increased only in the trained leg of the HLF (5%, d = 0.35) and HLNF groups (12%, d = 0.67). CSE decreased in the VL of both legs in the HLNF group (−19%, d = 0.44) and no changes occurred in the RF. In conclusion, high‐ but not low‐load RT improves maximal voluntary force in the trained and the untrained knee extensors and fatigue did not further enhance these adaptations. Voluntary force improvements were unrelated to CSE changes in both legs.
Cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and circulating white blood cells in US youth
Authors: García‐Hermoso Antonio , Ramírez‐Vélez Robinson , Alfonso‐Rosa Rosa M. , del Pozo Cruz Borja
Published: October 2020

The white blood cell (WBC) provides a clue to the presence of illness. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and physical activity levels are negatively associated with circulating total WBC counts in adults. To date, only a scarce number of studies have investigated these associations among youths. The aim was to elucidate the relationship between CRF and accelerometer‐assessed physical activity and sedentary behavior with WBC counts and subfraction concentrations of particular WBC (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils, and eosinophils) in a large representative national sample of US children and adolescents. Participants accumulating 60 min/day or more of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were considered active or inactive otherwise. Participants were also categorized into low, average, and high CRF level. The final sample consisted of 1623 children and adolescents (11.9 years old) from 2003 to 2006 cycle and 2624 (14.5 years old) from 1999 to 2004 cycle. CRF was inversely associated with total WBC and segmented neutrophils concentration in both sexes, and MVPA only in boys. Further, active children and adolescents had higher odds of a normal range of WBC count in boys (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.41 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.34) and girls (OR = 3.52 95% CI, 1.01 to 12.23). In conclusion, our observations indicate that interventions targeting CRF and MVPA could strength the immune system of children and adolescents.
The effect of occupational physical activity on dementia: Results from the Copenhagen Male Study
Authors: Nabe‐Nielsen Kirsten , Holtermann Andreas , Gyntelberg Finn , Garde Anne Helene , Islamoska Sabrina , Prescott Eva , Schnohr Peter , Hansen Åse Marie
Published: October 2020

Leisure‐time physical activity (LTPA) reduces the risk of dementia, while the effect of occupational physical activity (OPA) on dementia is uncertain. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of OPA on dementia. For comparison, also the association between LTPA and dementia was analyzed. In this longitudinal study, we used self‐reported questionnaire data on OPA and LTPA collected in 1970‐71 from 4721 male employees, who were 40‐59 years old at baseline. Dementia was identified through national registers and participants were followed from they turned 60 years and until 2016. We estimated incidence rate ratios (IRR) and adjusted for age, socioeconomic status, marital status, and psychological stress. In additional analyses, we included health behaviors and blood pressure and mutually adjusted OPA and LTPA. We identified 697 dementia cases during 86 557 person‐years. We found an IRR of 1.48 (95% CI: 1.05‐2.10) among participants with high OPA compared with participants in sedentary jobs. Participants with high LTPA had a non‐significantly lower IRR of dementia compared with participants with a sedentary leisure time. In conclusion, LTPA and OPA are differentially associated with dementia. Therefore, current recommendations regarding the beneficial effect of physical activity on dementia only concern LTPA, and more research on OPA and dementia is needed.
Physical fitness development in relation to changes in body composition and physical activity in adolescence
Authors: Joensuu Laura , Kujala Urho M. , Kankaanpää Anna , Syväoja Heidi J. , Kulmala Janne , Hakonen Harto , Oksanen Hermanni , Kallio Jouni , Tammelin Tuija H.
Published: October 2020

The decline in adolescents’ physical fitness (PF) in recent decades has raised concerns about current population's possible future challenges with health and physical functional capacity. This study explored the associations between body composition, physical activity, maturation, and PF development in adolescents. Furthermore, PF development of adolescents with low initial PF was assessed. A 2‐year observational study was conducted between spring 2013 and 2015. Nine comprehensive schools and their 10‐ to 13‐year‐old students were invited to participate in the study (1778), and a total of 971 students (54.6%) agreed. Cardiorespiratory fitness (20‐meter shuttle run), muscular fitness (push‐ups), fundamental movement skills (5‐leaps test), body composition (bioelectrical impedance analysis), moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (accelerometer), and pubertal status (self‐assessment questionnaire) were measured at 1‐year intervals. Latent growth curve modeling (LGM) was used to study PF development over time. Change in fat mass had the strongest and most coherent associations with PF development during adolescence. Fat‐free mass, moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity, and pubertal status were associated with PF development, although not systematically. Subgroup analyses showed that PF development in the low fitness group followed a similar pattern as the whole population. However, their PF remained significantly lower throughout the 2‐year period. The findings suggest that fat accumulation is an essential detrimental factor for PF development during adolescence. Actions to prevent excessive fat accumulation might help to prevent future declines in functional capacity. Indications that low fitness levels sustain during adolescence highlight the relevance of detecting these individuals and providing interventions already before adolescence.
Influence of sex and fiber type on the satellite cell pool in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Horwath Oscar , Moberg Marcus , Larsen Filip J. , Philp Andrew , Apró William , Ekblom Björn
Published: October 2020

The repair, remodeling, and regeneration of myofibers are dependent on satellite cells (SCs), although, the distribution of SCs in different fiber types of human muscle remains inconclusive. There is also a paucity of research comparing muscle fiber characteristics in a sex‐specific manner. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate fiber type‐specific SC content in men and women. Muscle biopsies from vastus lateralis were collected from 64 young (mean age 27 ± 5), moderately trained men (n = 34) and women (n = 30). SCs were identified by Pax7‐staining together with immunofluorescent analyses of fiber type composition, fiber size, and myonuclei content. In a mixed population, comparable number of SCs was associated to type I and type II fibers (0.07 ± 0.02 vs 0.07 ± 0.02 SCs per fiber, respectively). However, unlike men, women displayed a fiber type‐specific distribution, with SC content being lower in type II than type I fibers (P = .041). Sex‐based differences were found specifically for type II fibers, where women displayed lower SC content compared to men (P < .001). In addition, positive correlations (r‐values between 0.36‐0.56) were found between SC content and type I and type II fiber size in men (P = .03 and P < .01, respectively), whereas similar relationships could not be detected in women. Sex‐based differences were also noted for fiber type composition and fiber size, but not for myonuclei content. We hereby provide evidence for sex‐based differences present at the myocellular level, which may have important implications when studying exercise‐ and training‐induced myogenic responses in skeletal muscle.
Estimation of the second ventilatory threshold through ventricular repolarization profile analysis
Authors: Milagro Javier , Hernández‐Vicente Adrián , Hernando David , Casajús José A. , Garatachea Nuria , Bailón Raquel , Pueyo Esther
Published: October 2020

Under the hypothesis that sympathetic control of ventricular repolarization may change once the second ventilatory threshold (VT2) has been reached, a novel methodology for non‐invasive VT2 estimation based on the analysis of the T wave from the electrocardiogram (ECG) is proposed, and potential underlying physiological mechanisms are suggested. 25 volunteers (33.4 ± 5.2 years) underwent an incremental power cycle ergometer test (25 W/minute). During the test, respiratory gas exchange and multi‐lead ECG were acquired. The former was employed to determine VT2, used here as a reference, whereas the latter was used to compute the temporal profiles of an index of ventricular repolarization instability (dT) and its low‐frequency (LF) oscillations (LFdT). The sudden increases observed in dT and LFdT profiles above an established heart rate threshold were employed to derive VT2 estimates, referred to as VT2dT and VT2LFdT, respectively. Estimation errors of −4.7 ± 25.2 W were obtained when considering VT2dT. Errors were lower than the one‐minute power increment of 25 W in 68% of the subjects and lower than 50 W in 89.5% of them. When using VT2LFdT, estimation error was of 15.3 ± 32.4 W. Most of the subjects shared common characteristic dT and LFdT profiles, which could be reflecting changes in the autonomic control of ventricular repolarization before and after reaching VT2. The analysis of ventricular repolarization dynamics during exercise allows non‐invasive ECG‐based estimation of VT2, possibly in relation to changes in the autonomic control of ventricular electrical activity when VT2 is reached.
Acute effects of varying squat depths on lumbar intervertebral disks during high‐load barbell back squat exercise
Authors: Yanagisawa Osamu , Oshikawa Tomoki , Adachi Gen , Matsunaga Naoto , Kaneoka Koji
Published: October 2020

We aimed to evaluate the acute physiological effects of high‐load barbell back squat exercise on each lumbar intervertebral disk with varying squat depths. Thirteen subjects (age, 23.3 ± 3.5 years) performed parallel and half‐squat exercises (80% of one repetition maximum, eight repetitions, five sets) using a Smith machine. Sagittal magnetic resonance diffusion‐weighted and spin‐echo images of lumbar intervertebral disks were obtained by using a 1.5‐Tesla MR system before and after each squat exercise; apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC; an index of water movement) and T2 relaxation time (an index of water content level) of the nucleus pulposus were calculated at all lumbar intervertebral disks. Additionally, we measured the angles of lumbar lordosis and anterior pelvic tilt at the bottom position of each squat using a three‐dimensional motion‐capture system. The nucleus pulposus of L4/5 (−5.0%, P < .01) and L5/S1 (−6.6%, P < .01) intervertebral disks showed decreased ADC values after parallel squat exercise. Moreover, post‐exercise ADC value in parallel squat exercise was lower than that in half‐squat exercise at L5/S1 intervertebral disk (P < .05). In contrast, the nucleus pulposus of all lumbar intervertebral disks had no significant T2 change before and after both squat exercises. The angles of lumbar lordosis (P < .01) and anterior pelvic tilt (P < .01) were smaller in parallel squat than in half‐squat. Lower lumbar intervertebral disks are subject to greater mechanical stress during high‐load parallel back squat exercise, which may result from smaller lumbar lordosis and anterior pelvic tilt angles at the bottom position during parallel squat.
3D trunk orientation measured using inertial measurement units during anatomical and dynamic sports motions
Authors: Brouwer Niels P. , Yeung Ted , Bobbert Maarten F. , Besier Thor F.
Published: October 2020

Trunk motion is related to the performance and risk of injuries during dynamic sports motions. Optical motion capture is traditionally used to measure trunk motion during dynamic sports motions, but these systems are typically constrained to a laboratory environment. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) might provide a suitable alternative for measuring the trunk orientation during dynamic sports motions. The objective of the present study was to assess the accuracy of the three‐dimensional trunk orientation measured using IMUs during dynamic sports motions and isolated anatomical trunk motions. The motions were recorded with two IMUs and an optical motion capture system (gold standard). Ten participants performed a total of 71 sports motions (19 golf swings, 15 one‐handed ball throws, 19 tennis serves, and 18 baseball swings) and 125 anatomical trunk motions (42, 41, and 42 trials of lateral flexion, axial rotation, and flexion/extension, respectively). The root‐mean‐square differences between the IMU‐ and optical motion capture‐based trunk angles were less than 5 degrees, and the similarity between the methods was on average across all trials “very good” to “excellent” (R ≥ 0.85; R2 ≥ 0.80). Across the dynamic sports motions, even higher measures of similarity were found (R ≥ 0.90; R2 ≥ 0.82). When aligned to the relevant segment, the current IMUs are a promising alternative to optical motion capture and previous presented IMU‐based systems for the field‐based measurement of the three‐dimensional trunk orientation during dynamic sports motions and the anatomical trunk motions.
Effects of a resistance training program in kidney transplant recipients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hernández Sánchez Sonsoles , Carrero Juan J. , Morales Javier S. , Ruiz Jonatan R.
Published: October 2020

Kidney transplant recipients are at risk of developing important adverse effects after transplantation. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a 10‐week supervised resistance exercise‐based intervention in kidney transplant recipients. Sixteen participants were randomized to a training (n = 8, 49.7 ± 9.6 years) or control group (n = 8, 48.6 ± 10.6 years). The primary endpoint was health‐related quality of life evaluated through the Kidney Disease Quality of Life‐Short Form (KDQOL‐SF), which includes the 36‐Item Short Form Survey (SF‐36), and secondary endpoints included physical performance (6‐minute walk distance [6‐MWD], 60‐second sit to stand test [60‐STS], 8‐foot up and go test, and handgrip and lower limb muscle strength), muscle mass, and biochemical parameters. Endpoints were assessed at baseline and after 10 weeks. Resistance exercise significantly increased (P < .05) some SF‐36 domains and tended to induce improvements in one specific KDQOL‐SF domain (P = .050). Further, exercise benefits were observed for 6‐MWD (9% and 1% for the training and control groups, respectively; P < .001), handgrip strength (7% and −1%; P = .005), 60‐STS repetitions (18% and −7%; P < .001), and 8‐foot up and go test performance time (−5% and 6%; P = .010). No between‐group differences (P > .05) were found for the remaining endpoints. There were no adverse events, musculoskeletal injuries, hypoglycemic episodes, cardiovascular events, or hospitalizations related to the intervention. In conclusion, 10 weeks of supervised resistance training is enough to improve quality of life and physical performance without side effects such as musculoskeletal injuries, hypoglycemic episodes, cardiovascular events, or hospitalizations related to the intervention in kidney transplant recipients.
Absolute lymphocyte count as marker of cytomegalovirus and allograft rejection: Is there a “Safe Corridor” after kidney transplantation?
Authors: El Helou Guy , Lahr Brian , Razonable Raymund
Published: October 2020

The contrasting outcomes of lymphocyte manipulation after solid organ transplantation are allograft rejection and infections, commonly with cytomegalovirus (CMV). Peripheral blood absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) may serve as a predictive marker for these outcomes. Using a retrospective review of clinical and laboratory dataset, we aimed to determine whether a range of ALC (termed “safe ALC corridor”) exists where CMV infection and rejection outcomes are minimal in a cohort of 381 kidney transplant recipients. In an extended Cox model using a time‐dependent covariate for peripheral blood ALC, a value below the cut‐off of 610 cells/uL was associated with the development of CMV infection both in the overall cohort (Hazard Ratio [HR] 2.25 (95% confidence internal [CI] 1.02‐4.96; P = .043) and the subgroup of high‐risk CMV D+/R‐ mismatch patients (HR 2.91 [95% CI 1.09‐7.77]; P = .033). In contrast, a time‐dependent Cox analysis did not show any significant association between ALC and rejection (per IQR decrease, HR 1.2 [95% CI: 0.76‐1.9]; P = .434). Accordingly, a “safe ALC corridor” could not be defined. In conclusion, a low peripheral blood ALC (ie, threshold of 610 cells/uL) can be used to stratify the risk of CMV disease after kidney transplantation.
Safety and efficacy of Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir in children with active hepatitis C virus infection undergoing haploidentical transplantation
Authors: Jaiswal Sarita Rani , Bhakuni Prakash , Soni Mayank , Gupta Mahesh , Thatai Atul , Chakrabarti Suparno
Published: October 2020

Direct Acting Antivirals (DAA) have changed the landscape of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with high cure rates across genotypes. However, the use of these agents in the setting of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) has been limited. In this context, we report the outcome of five children (5‐12 years) with relapsed and refractory leukemia and active HCV infection (genotype 1b), who underwent urgent haploidentical HCT and were treated with Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir (Sof‐Vel) from initiation of treatment to 24 weeks post‐HCT. All achieved complete virologic response (VR) at a median of 2 weeks, with normalization of liver enzymes. There were no adverse events related to the use of Sof‐Vel, with no major fluctuations in cyclosporine levels. Two of the patients developed chronic GVHD and one relapsed. Sof‐Vel was continued in one of them along with sirolimus without affecting drug levels. With a median follow‐up of 15 months, four patients are disease free with sustained VR. Our study shows that combination of Sof‐Vel might be effective in inducing rapid complete and sustained VR during HCT without any major untoward drug interaction.
Imaging O2 dynamics and microenvironments in the seagrass leaf phyllosphere with magnetic optical sensor nanoparticles
Authors: Elgetti Brodersen Kasper , Kühl Michael , Trampe Erik , Koren Klaus
Published: October 2020

Eutrophication leads to epiphyte blooms on seagrass leaves that strongly affect plant health, yet the actual mechanisms of such epiphyte‐induced plant stress remain poorly understood. We used magnetic optical sensor nanoparticles in combination with luminescence lifetime imaging to map the O2 concentration and dynamics in the heterogeneous seagrass phyllosphere under changing light conditions. By incorporating magnetite into the sensor nanoparticles, it was possible to image the spatial O2 distribution under flow over seagrass leaf segments in the presence of a strong magnetic field. Local microniches with low leaf surface O2 concentrations were found under thick epiphytic biofilms, often leading to anoxic microhabitats in darkness. High irradiance led to O2 supersaturation across most of the seagrass phyllosphere, whereas leaf microenvironments with reduced O2 conditions were found under epiphytic biofilms at low irradiance, probably driven by self‐shading. Horizontal micro‐profiles extracted from the O2 images revealed pronounced heterogeneities in local O2 concentration over the base of the epiphytic biofilm, with up to 52% reduction in O2 concentrations in areas with relatively thick (>2 mm), compared with thin (≤1 mm), epiphyte layers in darkness. We also present evidence of enhanced relative internal O2 transport within leaves with epiphyte overgrowth, compared with bare seagrass leaves, in light as a result of limited mass transfer across thick outward diffusion pathways. The local availability of O2 was still markedly reduced in the epiphyte‐covered leaves, however. The leaf phyllosphere is thus characterized by a complex microlandscape of O2 availability that strongly affects microbial processes occurring within the epiphytic biofilm, which may have implications for seagrass health, as anoxic microhabitats have been shown to promote the microbiological production of reduced toxic compounds, such as nitric oxide.
Dominant immune response to HLA‐B57/B58 molecules after platelet transfusion
Authors: Coombs Justine , Ben Hassen Latifa , Leclerc Mathieu , Tamagne Marie , Pannetier Louise , Khelfa Mehdi , Delorme Adèle , Bocquet Thibaut , Maury Sébastien , Pirenne France , Ansart‐Pirenne Hélène , Vingert Benoît
Published: October 2020

Background

Patients with hematologic malignancies require prophylactic or curative platelet transfusions to prevent or treat bleeding. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation cause persistent thrombocytopenia, necessitating platelet transfusions. However, class I HLA antibodies can cause a serious complication: immune‐mediated platelet refractoriness. The mechanisms of alloimmunization are incompletely understood. We explored the immunogenicity of HLA molecules and the phenotype of the HLA‐specific CD4+ T cells involved in alloimmunization.

Study Design and Methods

We investigated the role of HLA molecules in platelet transfusion immunogenicity in a retrospective cohort study on men with specific anti‐HLA who had undergone transfusion. We investigated the presence and phenotypic profile of HLA‐specific CD4+ T cells in alloimmunized patients included in long‐term platelet transfusion programs for hematologic malignancies.

Results

More than 50% of the transfused subjects displayed an antibody response against HLA‐B57 or ‐B58. HLA‐B57–specific CD4+ T‐cell responses were observed in patients alloimmunized against HLA‐B57. Following specific stimulation, the patients presented HLA‐specific CD4+ T cells producing tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin (IL)‐13, IL‐17A, IL‐2, IL‐10, and IL‐21.

Conclusion

These results shed light on posttransfusion class I anti‐HLA alloimmunization mechanisms and constitute a first step toward developing new strategies for reducing refractoriness.
Significant association of serum autoantibodies to TYMS, HAPLN1 and IGFBP5 with early stage canine malignant mammary tumours
Authors: Chang Shih‐Chieh , Yuan Stephen Hsien‐Chi , Li Chia‐Yin , Chang Huan‐Ming , Wang Heng‐Cian , Pan Yun‐An , Hsueh Pei‐Chun , Wu Chih‐Ching , Yang Youngsen , Liu Hao‐Ping
Published: October 2020

Canine mammary tumours (CMTs) are the most prevalent neoplasms in female dogs. Despite the high incidence of such tumours, a lack of easily accessible biomarkers still impedes early diagnosis of malignant CMTs. Herein we identify thymidylate synthetase (TYMS), hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 1 (HAPLN1) and insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) as CMT antigens eliciting corresponding autoantibodies in CMT cases. We establish enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to detect autoantibodies to TYMS (TYMS‐AAb), HAPLN1 (HAPLN1‐AAb) and IGFBP5 (IGFBP5‐AAb) in sera from 81 dogs with malignant CMTs (41 in Stage I), 24 with benign CMTs and 35 healthy controls. Levels of all the three autoantibodies are elevated in the malignant group compared with the healthy or the benign group; notably, the elevated autoantibody levels significantly correlate with the stage‐I CMTs. For discriminating malignant CMTs from healthy control, the area under curve (AUC) of TYMS‐AAb is 0.694 with specificity of 82.9% and sensitivity of 50.6%. The AUC of utilising HAPLN1‐AAb for distinguishing the stage‐I CMTs from healthy controls is 0.711 with specificity of 77.1% and sensitivity of 58.5%. In differentiating malignant CMTs from the benign, the AUC of IGFBP5‐AAb reaches 0.696 with specificity of 70.8% and sensitivity of 67.9%, and a combination of IGFBP5‐AAb and TYMS‐AAb increases the AUC to 0.72. Finally, the AUC of combined HAPLN1‐AAb and IGFBP5‐AAb in discriminating the stage‐I CMTs from the benign achieves 0.731. Collectively, this study highlights a significant association of the three serum autoantibodies with early stage malignant CMTs.
Preliminary evaluation of the efficacy of intravenous magnesium sulfate for the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias in 16 dogs
Authors: Schoeller Amber B. , Rudloff Elke , Waldner Cheryl L. , Klose Tyler C. , Linklater Andrew K.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of IV magnesium sulfate in decreasing the number of ventricular ectopic beats or convert ventricular tachyarrhythmia to sinus rhythm in dogs.

Design

Prospective, observational feasibility study.

Setting

Private referral center.

Animals

Sixteen client‐owned dogs exhibiting 1 or more of the following: (1) sustained or paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia (heart rate > 180/min), (2) single or multiform ventricular complexes at > 60 ectopies/min.

Interventions

Pretreatment (T1) blood creatinine and electrolyte concentrations were measured. A 60‐second lead II ECG strip and systolic arterial blood pressure (SABP) were recorded. Magnesium sulfate 0.1 mmol/kg (0.2 mEq/kg) was administered IV over 5 minutes. Five minutes after completion of the magnesium sulfate injection (T2), electrolyte concentrations were measured again. A second 60‐second lead II ECG strip and SABP were recorded. The number of ectopic ventricular and supraventricular beats (sinus beats) that occurred in 60 seconds during the T1 and T2 ECG recordings was compared. T1 and T2 electrolytes and SABP were also compared.

Results

There was an increase in the ionized magnesium concentration, a decrease in the heart rate and the number of ventricular ectopic beats, and an increase in the number of supraventricular beats at T2. Two dogs converted to a sinus rhythm at T2 that was not sustained.

Conclusions

Intravenous administration of 0.1 mmol/kg (0.2 mEq/kg) magnesium sulfate in dogs with ventricular ectopy decreased the number of ventricular beats and heart rate. However, a specific conclusion regarding the use of magnesium sulfate as a first‐line therapy for dogs with ventricular tachyarrhythmias at the investigated dose cannot be made.
Evaluation of the accumulation of heavy metals in water, sediments and plants of a coastal zone of Mexico
Authors: Gómez‐Bernal Juan Miguel , Ruiz‐Huerta Esther Aurora , Armienta Hernández María Aurora , Ramírez Romero Patricia , Gallegos‐Martínez Margarita Elizabeth
Published: October 2020

A preliminary environmental assessment of four heavy metals (Mn, Pb, Zn and Fe) on the coast of Campeche, Mexico was carried out. Surface sediments (0–10 cm), water and plants were collected in four sites of the coastline to obtain information about the levels and spatial distribution of the selected elements. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) was calculated for plants, where the BCF of Mn (3.375–3.558) and Zn (0.291–0.888) were high for Conocarpus erectus (button mangrove) and the BCF of Fe ranged from 0.022 to 0.023 in Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove). This study showed that a significant source of metal contamination in the coastline of Campeche could be the discharge of municipal sewage. The relationship among metals, water, sediments and plants revealed a distinct behaviour of metals transportation in the marine environment. Mangroves operated as excluder species for nonessential metals (Pb) and accumulators for essential metals (Zn). Results showed that mangroves could be employed as a phytostabiliser of heavy metals.