bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boron and Magnesium Fertilization of a Coastal Douglas-Fir Plantation
Authors: Green R. N. , Carter R. E.
Published: August 2019

This study examines the role of boron and magnesium nutrition in the occurrence of severe growth distortion symptoms in Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) in the Skwawka River valley of south coastal British Columbia. Four fertilizer treatments including boron (2.25 kg B/ha), magnesium (42 kg Mg/ha), boron plus magnesium, and a control, were applied in conjunction with planting on a site believed to be deficient in these nutrients. After 5 growing seasons, only treatments containing boron (B and B+Mg) showed improved height growth over the control trees. The incidence of leader dieback, swollen leading shoots, and foliage distortion was significantly related to treatment with virtually no occurrence in plots treated with boron. Seedling uptake of applied boron was high, with foliar concentrations of 45 ppm found after the second growing season. Foliar B levels declined to 13-15 ppm after 5 growing seasons. No significant increase in foliar magnesium levels was detected for either of the magnesium treatments. The reduction in the incidence of leader dieback and shoot and foliar symptoms in seedlings treated with B indicate that these symptoms were the result of boron deficiencies. This is the first study to verify boron deficiency in coastal Douglas-fir through fertilizer trials. West. J. Appl. For. 8(2):48-53.
Relationship Between Occurrence of Laminated Root Rot and Site Characteristics in Douglas-Fir Forests of the Northern Oregon Coast Range
Authors: Kastner Walter W. , Goheen Donald J. , Edmonds Robert L.
Published: August 2019

In the northern Oregon Coast Range 70- to 100-yr old Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) stands were evaluated to determine rate of infection by laminated root rot, caused by (Phellinus weirii), whether local disease occurrence was associated with site characteristics, and impacts of P. weirii on the number of trees and basal area. Overall infection rate was 5.6%, but varied from 0.0 to 14.7% among stands. There was a significant association between occurrence of P. weirii and slope position. The rate of infection on ridges, upper slopes, middle slopes, and lower slopes was 13.0, 7.3, 4.1, and 0.0%, respectively. Occurrence of P. weirii was independent of plant association and aspect. Infected plots contained 25% less live Douglas-fir basal area and 35% fewer live Douglas-fir trees per ac than uninfected plots. West. J. Appl. For. 9(1):14-17.
Response of Young Ponderosa Pines, Shrubs, and Ferns to Three Release Treatments
Authors: McDonald Philip M. , Abbott Celeste S. , Fiddler Gary O.
Published: August 2019

One-year-old Sierra chinkapin (Castanopsis sempervirens) sprouts, greenleaf manzanita (Arctostaphylos patula var. platyphylla) seedlings, and new fronds of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens), present in a 1-yr-old ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa var. ponderosa) plantation in northern California, were treated once with one of three herbicides (Velpar L, Escort, and Garlon 4) in fall 1986 and spring 1987 and their density and development compared among treatments and to a control. After 6 growing seasons, chinkapin sprouts in the control averaged more than 16,000 per acre, manzanita seedlings over 19,000, and bracken ferns more than 13,000 per acre. After 6 growing seasons, mean ponderosa pine diameter ranged from 2.03 in. in the Velpar treatment to 1.28 in. in the control. Cover of combined shrubs, also after six seasons, was about 3% with Velpar, 7% with Garlon, 20% with Escort, and 51% in the control. Bracken fern cover was greatest (13%) where foliage-active Garlon reduced competing shrubs, and least in the soil-active Velpar treatment (2%) and the control (3%), where heavy competition from shrubs precluded establishment. West. J. Appl. For. 9(1):24-28.
An Analysis of Future Softwood Timber Supply in Western Washington
Authors: Adams Darius M. , Alig Ralph J. , Stevens James A.
Published: August 2019

Western Washington faces many changes in its private timber resources, in policies regulating private forest practices, and in management directions on public lands that could markedly alter future timber supplies. Assuming stability of forest practice regulations extant in early 1992 and in past trends in private management, future nonfederal softwood harvest could change little from the average levels of the 1980s. A 70% reduction in national forest harvests could reduce total western Washington cut by less than 10%. Our analysis demonstrates the impacts of uncertainties in this projection, including the basic inventory data, rates of land loss, rates of private management intensification, and future forest practice regulations. A key feature in all scenarios is the limited volume of older timber from which to draw near-term harvest on private lands. Thus, conditions or regulations affecting the availability of older timber or the minimum age of harvest have large near-term harvest impacts. West. J. Appl. For. 9(3):81-87.
Controlling Sprout Clumps of Bigleaf Maple with Herbicides and Manual Cutting
Authors: Wagner Robert G. , Rogozynski Michael W.
Published: August 2019

Bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum) clumps were controlled using the herbicides glyphosate, imazapyr, metsulfuron methyl, triclopyr amine, triclopyr ester, and 2,4-DP + 2,4-D; by basal spray, thinline, foliage spray, and on cut surfaces; during early foliar, late foliar, and dormant periods on five sites across western Oregon and Washington. Three timings of manual cutting alone also were compared. Imazapyr foliage sprays, triclopyr ester thinline, dormant 3% triclopyr ester basal spray, late-foliar 2, 4-DP + 2,4-D basal spray, and manual cutting with triclopyr amine cut-surface application provided the best control among the treatments tested over the 3 yr of study. Imazapyr foliage sprays provided the best long-term control by killing most treated clumps. Triclopyr ester thinline treatments provided the most consistent and effective results among the basal applications. Stump applications of triclopyr amine were more effective than manual cutting alone or manual cutting with glyphosate cut-surface application. West. J. Appl. For. 9(4):118-124.
Leveraging Economies of Scale via Collaborative Interdisciplinary Global Health Tracks (CIGHTs): Lessons From Three Programs
Authors: McHenry Megan S. , Baenziger Jennifer T.H. , Zbar Lori G. , Mendoza Joanne , den Hartog Julia R. , Litzelman Debra K. , Pitt Michael B.
Published: August 2019

As interest in global health education continues to increase, residency programs seeking to accommodate learners’ expectations for global health learning opportunities often face challenges providing high-quality global health training. To address these challenges, some residency programs collaborate across medical specialties to create interdisciplinary global health residency tracks or collaborative interdisciplinary global health tracks (CIGHTs). In this Perspective, the authors highlight the unique aspects of interdisciplinary tracks that may benefit residency programs by describing 3 established U.S.-based programs as models: those at Indiana University, Mount Sinai Hospital, and the University of Virginia. Through collaboration and economies of scale, CIGHTs are able to address some of the primary challenges inherent to traditional global health tracks: lack of institutional faculty support and resources, the need to develop a global health curriculum, a paucity of safe and mentored international rotations, and inconsistent resident interest. Additionally, most published global health learning objectives and competencies (e.g., ethics of global health work, predeparture training) are not discipline specific and can therefore be addressed across departments—which, in turn, adds to the feasibility of CIGHTs. Beyond simply sharing the administrative burden, however, the interdisciplinary learning central to CIGHTs provides opportunities for trainees to gain new perspectives in approaching global health not typically afforded in traditional global health track models. Residency program leaders looking to implement or modify their global health education offerings, particularly those with limited institutional support, might consider developing a CIGHT as an approach that leverages economies of scale and provides new opportunities for collaboration.
Update on lupus epidemiology: advancing health disparities research through the study of minority populations
Authors: Drenkard Cristina , Lim S. Sam
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

The current review focuses on recent population-based studies that have examined the burden of lupus, disease outcomes, and gaps in quality of care, with an emphasis in research addressing health disparities.

Recent findings

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Lupus Registries underscored higher susceptibility of both systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary cutaneous lupus among people of color, compared with whites. Not only does SLE disproportionately strike people from racial and ethnic minorities, those individuals are also at increased risk of developing severe manifestations following SLE diagnosis. Mortality is higher and death occurs at a younger age among blacks, compared with whites. Furthermore, ongoing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-supported population-based lupus cohorts, along with research by other groups, have provided new insight into the role of social determinants on outcomes and opportunities to improve care in diverse lupus populations.

While descriptive epidemiological efforts have been critical to providing more accurate estimates of the burden and mortality of lupus across diverse demographic groups, emerging research suggests a significant influence of psychosocial and healthcare system factors on disease outcomes. These current efforts represent important steps toward the development of clinical and public health interventions aimed at eliminating health disparities in lupus populations.
An update on the genetics of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Oparina Nina , Martínez-Bueno Manuel , Alarcón-Riquelme Marta E.
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

The aim of this study is to update on the most recent findings on the genetics of systemic lupus erythematosus.

Recent findings

Our overview focuses particularly on results from expression quantitative trait loci, exome sequencing, and rare variants and their impact on disease.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease for which a significant number of susceptibility genes have been identified. Several genome-wide association studies were recently published in different populations that provide a better picture of the molecular mechanisms. It is becoming clear that the genetic architecture of lupus is quite well established but more information is required on the role of rare variants.
Role of type I interferons and innate immunity in systemic sclerosis: unbalanced activities on distinct cell types?
Authors: Barrat Franck J. , Lu Theresa T.
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

The role of type I IFNs (IFN-I) in the promotion of autoimmunity has been well established. However, its role in the skin fibrosis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) is less clear. IFN-I can participate to tissue repair, and, here, we will consider the extent to which IFN-I's role in SSc skin fibrosis may reflect in part IFN-I functions during wound healing.

Recent findings

Studies are beginning to delineate whether IFN-I has a protective or pathogenic role and how IFN-I affects tissue biology. Recent support for a pathogenic role came from a study depleting plasmacytoid dendritic cells during bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis. The depletion reduced the bleomycin-induced IFN-I-stimulated transcripts and both prevented and reversed fibrosis. Additionally, two recent articles, one identifying SSc endothelial cell injury markers and one showing repressed IFN signaling in SSc keratinocytes, suggest the possibility of unbalanced IFN-I activities on distinct cells types.

Recent results support a pathogenic role for IFN-I in skin fibrosis, and recent studies along with others suggest a scenario whereby SSc skin damage results from too much IFN-I-activity driving vasculopathy in combination with too little IFN-I-mediated epidermal integrity and antifibrotic fibroblast phenotype.
Failed Proximal Humerus Osteosynthesis Using Intramedullary Fibular Strut Allograft Conversion to Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Manzi Joseph E. , Ruzbarsky Joseph J. , Rauck Ryan C. , Gulotta Lawrence V. , Dines Joshua S. , Dines David M.
Published: August 2019

Comminuted proximal humerus fractures are more frequently being treated utilizing an intramedullary fibular strut allograft to assist with open reduction internal fixation. Although this technique has led to improved outcomes, avascular necrosis, rotator cuff failure, and/or prominent hardware may still occur necessitating conversion to reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The presence of an intramedullary strut allograft makes this conversion technically demanding and creates certain potential complications unique to this group. This manuscript details the conversion of a proximal humerus open reduction internal fixation with a fibular strut allograft to reverse shoulder arthroplasty including presurgical workup, surgical techniques, and pitfalls for undertaking this increasingly common scenario.
Small Finger Abduction Test to Evaluate the Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Tendon
Authors: Smock Elliott , Banda Javier , Purushothaman Venugopal , Thirkannad Sunil M.
Published: August 2019

We describe a simple and effective method to assess the integrity of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle and tendon. This method is called the Small Finger Abduction Test. The study also evaluates the efficacy and practicality of the test.

Level of Evidence: Level II.
Modern Outcomes Following Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Authors: McPhail Mark J.W. , Khorsandi Shirin E. , Abbott Laura , Al-Kadhimi Gillian , Kane Pauline , Karani John , O’Grady John , Heaton Nigel , Bomford Adrian , Suddle Abid
Published: August 2019

Objective:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complication of the common genetic condition hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). It is unknown whether HH as an etiology of liver disease impacts the outcome. We compared the results of liver transplantation (LT), surgical resection and locoregional therapies in a matched cohort study and investigated whether HH as an etiology has an impact on survival.

Materials and Methods:

Consecutive patients with HH and HCC (2000 to 2015) were compared with age, sex and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage-matched non-HH HCC cases. Patients were offered curative or noncurative treatment according to BCLC stage and Milan criteria. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

Results:

A total of 102 patients (52 HH; total cohort median age: 67 [44 to 78] y, 97% male, Model for End-stage Liver Disease: 9 [5 to 31]) were studied with a median follow-up of 22 (3 to 126) months. Of the HH cases, the median serum ferritin at diagnosis of HCC was 326 (27 to 5718) μg/L and α-fetoprotein 33 (2 to 197,926) kIU/L. Five-year survival for HH patients receiving curative therapy was 77% (80% for LT, 67% for resection/radiofrequency ablation), and 15% (23% for transarterial chemoembolization) for those undergoing noncurative therapy. Survival for HH patients compared with controls was similar (hazard ratio=0.949; P=0.839). On multivariate Cox regression survival analysis, BCLC stage, and diagnosis of ischemic heart disease (but not HH diagnosis) were independently associated with reduced survival.

Conclusions:

Patients with HCC and HH can achieve comparable survival rates following curative or LRT modalities to other liver diseases. The BCLC staging system accurately stratifies survival and excellent 5-year survival is possible following LT in selected patients.
The Role of Partial Breast Radiation in the Previously Radiated Breast
Authors: Korzets Yasmin , Lee Grace , Espin-Garcia Osvaldo , Purdie Thomas , Koch Anne C. , Hodgson David , Barry Aisling , Fyles Anthony
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to analyze breast cancer patients who previously had mantle-field or breast radiation (RT) followed by retreatment with external beam partial breast irradiation (EB PBI).

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed all women with newly diagnosed early-stage breast cancer treated with lumpectomy and partial breast irradiation between 2007 and 2017 who had undergone prior chest or breast RT.

Results:

Of 11 patients recorded, 8 (73%) had Hodgkin lymphoma, and 3 (27%) had ipsilateral breast cancer diagnosis. Median age at initial and second diagnosis was 28 and 48 years, respectively. The lymphoma patients received a dose of 35 Gy in 16 to 20 fractions to a classic mantle-upper abdomen field. Patients with an initial diagnosis of breast cancer received whole-breast RT (2 with 50 Gy/25 fractions, 1 with 40 Gy in 16 fractions). Median time from initial to second diagnosis was 22.6 years (range, 13.5 to 32.6 y). All had early-stage (I to II) invasive ductal carcinoma and were treated with lumpectomy or repeat lumpectomy and EB PBI. Four received a dose of 45 Gy/25 fractions, 4 to 50 Gy/25 fractions, and 3 to 42.4 Gy/16 fractions. All patients received adjuvant systemic treatment. Two patients had toxicity, 1 had grade 1 induration, and the other had grade 2 fat atrophy and grade 1 fibrosis. One patient developed a contralateral breast cancer. No locoregional recurrences were reported at the median follow-up of 4.6 years (range, 0.6 to 10.5 y).

Conclusion:

EB PBI after lumpectomy seems to be a safe and effective RT treatment option for selected patients with prior RT and localized early-stage breast cancer.
Mini-Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation Versus Conjunctival Autograft Fixation With Fibrin Glue After Pterygium Excision: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sati Alok , Banerjee Supriya , Kumar Poninder , Kaushik Jaya , Khera Anurag
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes between mini-simple limbal epithelial transplantation (mini-SLET) and conjunctival autograft (CAG) fixation with fibrin glue after excision of pterygium.

Methods:

Ninety-two eyes with primary nasal pterygium were prospectively randomized into a CAG control arm and a mini-SLET study arm. Follow-up examinations were set at the first and third day, at weeks 1, 2, and 4, and at the third and sixth month after surgery. The primary outcome measure was the recurrence rate at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery, whereas the secondary outcome measures were the intraoperative time, postoperative symptoms, and other complications.

Results:

Eighty-two eyes completed the 6-month follow-up interval. Of the 42 eyes that underwent CAG, 4 (9.5%) exhibited recurrences, whereas only 1 of the 40 eyes (2.5%) treated with mini-SLET had recurrence (P= 0.358). The time taken for surgery in the study group (21.4 minutes) was greater as compared to the control group (15.1 minutes) (P< 0.001). The postoperative median symptom (foreign body sensation, lacrimation, pain, and irritation) score in the CAG group was significantly more for all symptoms on day 1 and day 3; however, on day 7, it was significantly more for pain and irritation only. Except dellen formation (1 in each group), both groups exhibited different other complications, although less in the study group.

Conclusions:

The study group exhibited a positive trend of less recurrence with reduced postoperative symptoms and other complications. More similar studies are required in future to validate the results.
Using Telehealth for Sexual Assault Forensic Examinations: A Process Evaluation of a National Pilot Project
Authors: Walsh Wendy A. , Meunier-Sham Joan , Re Cheryl
Published: August 2019

Introduction

This project describes the first time live sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) services were provided via telehealth to support site clinicians conducting sexual assault forensic medical examinations for adult and adolescent patients. It involved six sites in three states, including rural, tribal, military, and community hospitals. The purpose of this process evaluation was to determine the extent to which patients consent to telehealth technology, examine how the technology worked, and explore the types of assistance.

Methods

We reviewed information for sexual assault patients who presented at emergency departments (N = 215) and conducted telephone and online surveys with 178 clinicians who provided or received telehealth services.

Results

Between May 1, 2015, and March 31, 2018, 129 patients and site clinicians received services via telehealth and an additional 86 site clinicians received consultation advice via telehealth. Most patients consented and accepted SANE services via telehealth (86% overall and 97% in non-U.S. Navy sites). No significant technology problems were experienced for most interactions (92%). The assistance provided remotely by SANEs to site clinicians included guiding clinicians through history taking and documentation, forensic examination and evidence collection techniques, identifying and documenting injuries, and guiding clinical practice. Site clinicians reported, on average, a positive impact of the assistance on their confidence in providing an effective examination, their ability to provide their patient with the best care, and their sense of feeling supported.

Implication

Results of this pilot suggest that using live telehealth services for sexual assault forensic examinations is a promising practice.
Risk Factors and Anticoagulation Effects of Portal Vein System Thrombosis After Laparoscopic Splenectomy in Patients With or Without Cirrhosis
Authors: Huang Deng , Tao Meng , Cao Li , Wang Xiaojun , Zheng Shuguo , Cao Yong
Published: August 2019

The clinical data of 149 patients who underwent successful laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) between January 2014 and September 2017 were analyzed in the present study. The incidence of portal vein system thrombosis (PVST) in patients with and without cirrhosis was 32.0% and 9.5%, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the ratio of the postoperative maximum platelet (PLT) count to the preoperative PLT count (r=1.144; P=0.007) was the risk factor for PVST in all patients after LS. Of patients who received prophylactic anticoagulation, 9 and 6 cases of PVST in patients with and without cirrhosis, respectively, (37.5% vs. 85.7%; P=0.037) resolved during hospitalization. In patients who underwent LS, a PLT count increasing to >8 times baseline levels after surgery was the risk factor for PVST after LS, and the sensitivity to anticoagulation postoperatively was significantly higher in patients without cirrhosis than in those with cirrhosis.
A systemic approach provides insights into the salt stress adaptation mechanisms of contrasting bread wheat genotypes
Authors: Duarte-Delgado Diana , Dadshani Said , Schoof Heiko , Oyiga Benedict C. , Schneider Michael , Mathew Boby , Léon Jens , Ballvora Agim
Published: August 2019

Bread wheat is one of the most important crops for human diet but the increasing soil salinization is causing yield reductions worldwide. Physiological, genetic, transcriptomics and bioinformatics analyses were integrated to study the salt stress adaptation response in bread wheat. A comparative analysis to uncover the dynamic transcriptomic response of contrasting genotypes from two wheat populations was performed at both osmotic and ionic phases in time points defined by physiologic measurements. The differential stress effect on the expression of photosynthesis, calcium binding and oxidative stress response genes in the contrasting genotypes supported the greater photosynthesis inhibition observed in the susceptible genotype at the osmotic phase. At the ionic phase genes involved in metal ion binding and transporter activity were up-regulated and down-regulated in the tolerant and susceptible genotypes, respectively. The stress effect on mechanisms related with protein synthesis and breakdown was identified at both stress phases. Based on the linkage disequilibrium blocks it was possible to select salt-responsive genes as potential components operating in the salt stress response pathways leading to salt stress resilience specific traits. Therefore, the implementation of a systemic approach provided insights into the adaptation response mechanisms of contrasting bread wheat genotypes at both salt stress phases.

Highlight

The implementation of a systemic approach provided insights into salt stress adaptation response mechanisms of contrasting bread wheat genotypes from two mapping populations at both osmotic and ionic phases.
Characterizing Adult cochlear supporting cell transcriptional diversity using single-cell RNA-Seq: Validation in the adult mouse and translational implications for the adult human cochlea
Authors: Hoa Michael , Olszewski Rafal , Li Xiaoyi , Taukulis Ian , DeTorres Alvin , Lopez Ivan A. , Linthicum Fred H. , Ishiyama Akira , Izquierdo Daniel Martin , Morell Robert J. , Kelley Matthew W.
Published: August 2019

Hearing loss is a problem that impacts a significant proportion of the adult population. Cochlear hair cell loss due to loud noise, chemotherapy and aging is the major underlying cause. A significant proportion of these individuals are dissatisfied with available treatment options which include hearing aids and cochlear implants. An alternative approach to restore hearing would be to regenerate hair cells. Such therapy would require recapitulation of the complex architecture of the organ of Corti, necessitating regeneration of both mature hair cells and supporting cells. Transcriptional profiles of the mature cell types in the cochlea are necessary to can provide a metric for eventual regeneration therapies. To assist in this effort, we sought to provide the first single-cell characterization of the adult cochlear supporting cell transcriptome. We performed single-cell RNA-Seq on FACS-purified adult cochlear supporting cells from theLfngEGFPadult mouse, in which supporting cells express GFP. We demonstrate that adult cochlear supporting cells are transcriptionally distinct from their perinatal counterparts. We establish cell type-specific adult cochlear supporting cell transcriptome profiles, and we validate these expression profiles through a combination of both fluorescent immunohistochemistry andin situhybridization co-localization and qPCR of adult cochlear supporting cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate the relevance of these profiles to the adult human cochlea through immunofluorescent human temporal bone histopathology. Finally, we demonstrate cell cycle regulator expression in adult supporting cells and perform pathway analyses to identify potential mechanisms for facilitating mitotic regeneration (cell proliferation, differentiation, and eventually regeneration) in the adult mammalian cochlea. Our findings demonstrate the importance of characterizing mature as opposed to perinatal supporting cells.
Cryptic Patterns of Speciation in Cryptic Primates: Microendemic Mouse Lemurs and the Multispecies Coalescent
Authors: Poelstra Jelmer , Salmona Jordi , Tiley George P. , Schüßler Dominik , Blanco Marina B. , Andriambeloson Jean B. , Manzi Sophie , Campbell C. Ryan , Bouchez Olivier , Etter Paul D. , Iribar Amaia , Hohenlohe Paul A. , Hunnicutt Kelsie E. , Johnson Eric A. , Kappeler Peter M. , Larsen Peter A. , Ralison José M. , Randrianambinina Blanchard , Rasoloarison Rodin M. , Rasolofoson David W. , Stahlke Amanda R. , Weisrock David , Williams Rachel C. , Chikhi Lounès , Louis Edward E , Radespiel Ute , Yoder Anne D.
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Mouse lemurs (Microcebus) are a radiation of morphologically cryptic primates distributed throughout Madagascar for which the number of recognized species has exploded in the past two decades. This taxonomic explosion has prompted understandable concern that there has been substantial oversplitting in the mouse lemur clade. Here, we take an integrative approach to investigate species diversity in two pairs of sister lineages that occur in a region in northeastern Madagascar with high levels of microendemism and predicted habitat loss. We analyzed RADseq data with multispecies coalescent (MSC) species delimitation methods for three named species and an undescribed lineage previously identified to have divergent mtDNA. Marked differences in effective population sizes, levels of gene flow, patterns of isolation-by-distance, and species delimitation results were found among them. Whereas all tests support the recognition of the presently undescribed lineage as a separate species, the species-level distinction of two previously described species,M. mittermeieriandM. lehilahytsarais not supported – a result that is particularly striking when using the genealogical discordance index (gdi). Non-sister lineages occur sympatrically in two of the localities sampled for this study, despite an estimated divergence time of less than 1 Ma. This suggests rapid evolution of reproductive isolation in the focal lineages, and in the mouse lemur clade generally. The divergence time estimates reported here are based on the MSC and calibrated with pedigree-based mutation rates and are considerably more recent than previously published fossil-calibrated concatenated likelihood estimates, however. We discuss the possible explanations for this discrepancy, noting that there are theoretical justifications for preferring the MSC estimates in this case.
Soybean drought resilience: contributions of a brassinosteroid functional analogue
Authors: Pérez-Borroto Lucia Sandra , Toum Laila , Castagnaro Atilio Pedro , Gonzalez-Olmedo Justo Lorenzo , Coll-Manchado Francisco , Welin Björn Gunnar Viking , Coll-García Yamilet , Pardo Esteban Mariano
Published: August 2019

Drought is one of the most important causes of severe yield loss in soybean worldwide, threatening food production for the coming years. Phytohormones such as brassinosteroids can increase response to water deficit. However, natural brassinosteroids low stability precludes large-scale field application, challenging research and development of more stable and cost-effective analogues. Seeking functional analogues capable of improving plant drought-response, we investigated for the first time the effect of DI-31 in Arabidopsis and soybean. We found that, inA. thaliana,the DI-31 increased root growth, biomass accumulation, leaf numberperplant, triggered antioxidant response and dose-dependent stomatal closure, requiring NADPH and peroxidase-dependent ROS production. In soybean, the relative water content, water use efficiency, biomass production and duration, root length, free proline, chlorophyll and carotenoid accumulation and enzymatic antioxidants activity were stimulated by DI-31 application after four and eight days of mild water shortage, while significantly reduced the lipid-peroxides content. Additionally, our results demonstrated that DI-31 diminishes the nodular senescence and successfully maintains the N homeostasis through a fine tune of biological/assimilative N2-fixation pathways. These findings support the DI-31 potential use as a sustainable alternative for integrative soybean resilience management under drought.

Highlight

Brassinosteroid analogue DI-31 improves soybean growth, water economy, respiration, anti-stress response and nitrogen homeostasis under drought. Thus, they may be considered as a sustainable and environmentally-safe alternative for raising legumes climate resilience.
Dysregulation of Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein 2 Gene in HIV Treatment-Experienced Individuals
Authors: Sopeyin Anuoluwapo , Zhou Lei , Li Min , Barakat Lydia , Paintsil Elijah
Published: August 2019

We investigated the effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on cholesterol biosynthesis in a case-control study. mRNA and protein expressions of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) and ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) were significantly upregulated in cases (HIV+) compared to controls (HIV-). We observed dysregulation between sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-2, sensory control) and HMGCR and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) pathways. Dysregulation of cholesterol biosynthesis genes may predate clinical manifestation of ART-induced lipid abnormalities.
In vivo bioreactor using cellulose membrane benefit engineering cartilage by improving the chondrogenesis and modulating the immune response
Authors: Li Xue Guang , Park In-Su , Choi Byung Hyune , Kim Ung-Jin , Min Byoung-Hyun
Published: August 2019

To regenerate tissue engineered cartilage as a source for the restoration of cartilage defects, we used a human fetal cartilage progenitor cell (hFCPC) pellet for improve the chondrogenesis and modulation the immune response with a In vivo (IV) bioreactor system, that was buried subcutaneously in the host and then implanted into a cartilage defect. In vivo bioreactor (IVB) was composed of silicone tube and cellulose nanopore-size membrane. FCPC pellets were first cultured in vitro for 3 days, and then cultured in vitro, subcutaneous and IV bioreactor for 3 weeks. First evaluated the IV bioreactor fluid appearance, component and liquidity, and then evaluate chondrogenesis and immunogenicity of the pellets using gross observation, cell viability, histology, biochemical analysis, RT-PCR, and Western Blot, finally evaluates the cartilage repair and synovial inflammation using histology. The fluid color and transparency of IV bioreactor were similar to synovial fluid (SF) and the component was also close to SF compared to the serum. IV bioreactor system not only promotes the synthesis of cartilage matrix and maintains cartilage phenotype, but also delays the occurrence of calcification compared with subcutaneous. A IV bioreactor, which has been predominantly adopted to study cell differentiation, was effective in preventing host immune rejection.
Association of Ddx5/p68 protein with the upstream erythroid enhancer element (EHS1) of the Klf1 gene
Authors: Chen Xiaoyong , Pillay Sanjana , Lohmann Felix , Bieker James J
Published: August 2019

EKLF/KLF1 is an essential transcription factor that plays a global role in erythroid transcriptional activation. It’s own regulation is of interest, as it displays a highly restricted expression pattern, limited to erythroid cells and its progenitors. Here we use biochemical affinity purification to identify the Ddx5/p68 protein as an activator of KLF1 by virtue of its interaction with the erythroid-specific DNAse hypersensitive site upstream enhancer element (EHS1). We postulate that its range of interactions with other proteins known to interact with this element render it part of the enhanseosome complex critical for optimal expression of KLF1. These individual interactions provide quantitative contributions that, in sum, establish high level activity of the KLF1 promoter and suggest they can be selectively manipulated for clinical benefit.
Experience-dependent structural plasticity at pre- and postsynaptic sites of layer 2/3 cells in developing visual cortex
Authors: Sun Yujiao Jennifer , Espinosa J. Sebastian , Hoseini Mahmood S. , Stryker Michael P.
Published: August 2019

The developing brain can respond quickly to altered sensory experience by circuit reorganization. During a critical period in early life, neurons in the primary visual cortex rapidly lose responsiveness to an occluded eye and come to respond better to the open eye. While physiological and some of the molecular mechanisms of this process have been characterized, its structural basis, except for the well-known changes in the thalamocortical projection, remains obscure. To elucidate the relationship between synaptic remodeling and functional changes during this experience-dependent process, we used 2-photon microscopy to image synaptic structures of sparsely labeled layer 2/3 neurons in the binocular zone of mouse primary visual cortex. Anatomical changes at presynaptic and postsynaptic sites in mice undergoing monocular visual deprivation (MD) were compared to those in control mice with normal visual experience. We found that postsynaptic spines remodeled quickly in response to MD, with neurons more strongly dominated by the deprived eye losing more spines. These postsynaptic changes parallel changes in visual responses during MD and their recovery after restoration of binocular vision. In control animals with normal visual experience, the formation of presynaptic boutons increased during the critical period and then declined. MD affected bouton formation, but with a delay, blocking it after 3 days. These findings reveal intracortical anatomical changes in cellular layers of the cortex that can account for rapid activity-dependent plasticity.

Significance statement

The operation of the cortex depends on the connections among its neurons. Taking advantage of molecular and genetic tools to label major proteins of the presynaptic and postsynaptic densities, we studied how connections of layer 2/3 excitatory neurons in mouse visual cortex were changed by monocular visual deprivation during the critical period, which causes amblyopia. The deprivation induced rapid remodeling of postsynaptic spines and impaired bouton formation. Structural measurement followed by calcium imaging demonstrated a strong correlation between changes in postsynaptic structures and functional responses in individual neurons after monocular deprivation. These findings suggest that anatomical changes at postsynaptic sites serve as a substrate for experience-dependent plasticity in the developing visual cortex.
Adaptation mechanism of the adult zebrafish respiratory organ to endurance training
Authors: Messerli Matthias , Aaldijk Dea , Haberthür David , Röss Helena , García-Poyatos Carolina , Sande-Melón Marcos , Khoma Oleksiy-Zakhar , Wieland Fluri A.M. , Fark Sarya , Djonov Valentin
Published: August 2019

In order to study the adaptation scope of the fish respiratory organ and the O2metabolism due to endurance training, we subjected adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) to endurance exercise for 5 weeks. After the training period, the swimmer group showed a significant increase in swimming performance, body weight and length. In scanning electron microscopy of the gills, the average length of centrally located primary filaments appeared significantly longer in the swimmer than in the non-trained control group (+6.1%, 1639µm vs. 1545µm, p=0.00043) and the average number of secondary filaments increased significantly (+7.7%, 49.27 vs. 45.73, p=9e-09). Micro-computed tomography indicated a significant increase in the gill volume (p=0.048) by 11.8% from 0.490 mm3to 0.549 mm3. The space-filling complexity dropped significantly (p=0.0088) by 8.2% from 38.8% to 35.9%., i.e. making the gills of the swimmers less compact. Respirometry after 5 weeks showed a significantly higher oxygen consumption (+30.4%, p=0.0081) of trained fish during exercise compared to controls. Scanning electron microscopy revealed different stages of new secondary filament budding, which happened at the tip of the primary lamellae. Using BrdU we could confirm that the growth of the secondary filaments took place mainly in the distal half and the tip and for primary filaments mainly at the tip. We conclude that the zebrafish respiratory organ - unlike the mammalian lung - has a high plasticity, and after endurance training increases its volume and changes its structure in order to facilitate O2uptake.

Author summary

Adult zebrafish show an increase of their gill volume after endurance training, likely to adjust for the increased oxygen demand measured with respirometry during swimming.
Molecular basis for GIGYF–Me31B complex assembly in 4EHP-mediated translational repression
Authors: Peter Daniel , Ruscica Vincenzo , Bawankar Praveen , Weber Ramona , Helms Sigrun , Valkov Eugene , Igreja Cátia , Izaurralde Elisa
Published: August 2019

GIGYF (Grb10-interacting GYF [glycine–tyrosine–phenylalanine domain]) proteins coordinate with 4EHP (eIF4E [eukaryotic initiation factor 4E] homologous protein), the DEAD (Asp–Glu–Ala–Asp)-box helicase Me31B/DDX6, and mRNA-binding proteins to elicit transcript-specific repression. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Here, we report that GIGYF contains a motif necessary and sufficient for direct interaction with Me31B/DDX6. A 2.4 Å crystal structure of the GIGYF–Me31B complex reveals that this motif arranges into a coil connected to a β hairpin on binding to conserved hydrophobic patches on the Me31B RecA2 domain. Structure-guided mutants indicate that 4EHP–GIGYF–DDX6 complex assembly is required for tristetraprolin-mediated down-regulation of an AU-rich mRNA, thus revealing the molecular principles of translational repression.
Large-scale genome analysis of bovine commensal Escherichia coli reveals that bovine-adapted E. coli lineages are serving as evolutionary sources of the emergence of human intestinal pathogenic strains
Authors: Arimizu Yoko , Kirino Yumi , Sato Mitsuhiko P. , Uno Koichi , Sato Toshio , Gotoh Yasuhiro , Auvray Frédéric , Brugere Hubert , Oswald Eric , Mainil Jacques G. , Anklam Kelly S. , Döpfer Dörte , Yoshino Shuji , Ooka Tadasuke , Tanizawa Yasuhiro , Nakamura Yasukazu , Iguchi Atsushi , Morita-Ishihara Tomoko , Ohnishi Makoto , Akashi Koichi , Hayashi Tetsuya , Ogura Yoshitoshi
Published: August 2019

How pathogens evolve their virulence to humans in nature is a scientific issue of great medical and biological importance. Shiga toxin (Stx)–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) are the major foodborne pathogens that can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome and infantile diarrhea, respectively. The locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE)–encoded type 3 secretion system (T3SS) is the major virulence determinant of EPEC and is also possessed by major STEC lineages. Cattle are thought to be the primary reservoir of STEC and EPEC. However, genome sequences of bovine commensal E. coli are limited, and the emerging process of STEC and EPEC is largely unknown. Here, we performed a large-scale genomic comparison of bovine commensal E. coli with human commensal and clinical strains, including EPEC and STEC, at a global level. The analyses identified two distinct lineages, in which bovine and human commensal strains are enriched, respectively, and revealed that STEC and EPEC strains have emerged in multiple sublineages of the bovine-associated lineage. In addition to the bovine-associated lineage-specific genes, including fimbriae, capsule, and nutrition utilization genes, specific virulence gene communities have been accumulated in stx- and LEE-positive strains, respectively, with notable overlaps of community members. Functional associations of these genes probably confer benefits to these E. coli strains in inhabiting and/or adapting to the bovine intestinal environment and drive their evolution to highly virulent human pathogens under the bovine-adapted genetic background. Our data highlight the importance of large-scale genome sequencing of animal strains in the studies of zoonotic pathogens.
A novel method for measuring the focal point of a sagittal-focusing Laue crystal monochromator
Authors: Yang Jiaowang , Sheng Weifan , Liu Xu , Hu Lingfei , Cai Quan
Published: August 2019

In order to overcome space limitations, a novel method is introduced to measure the focal point size of a sagittally bent Laue crystal monochromator by using a multi-hole array. Combined with ray-tracing measurements, the focal length and focused beam size were determined. Theoretical simulations and experiments were performed to demonstrate the feasibility of this method. The experimental results show that this method can provide a fast way of measuring the focusing characteristics of a sagittally bent Laue crystal monochromator.
Engagement and exhaustion in healthcare: a network approach
Authors: Kowalewski Thomas , Ruschoff Britta
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Taking a network approach, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the social antecedents of work-related engagement and exhaustion in a sample of Dutch healthcare workers, examining how employees’ structural position in the team (i.e. their centrality in the network) is associated with their engagement and exhaustion. Distinctions are made between instrumental networks (i.e. structural dependencies) and expressive networks (i.e. emotional connectedness through friendships).

Design/methodology/approach

Associations between job characteristics (quantitative demands, emotional demands and influence) and employees’ centrality in the instrumental and expressive networks at work with their self-reported engagement and exhaustion were examined. Network centrality was assessed though a sociometric survey by the total number of nominations each employee received (in-degree centrality) or gave (out-degree centrality) and for both networks separately.

Findings

The results show that whereas job characteristics but not network centrality were associated with exhaustion, network centrality in the expressive network but not job characteristics was associated with engagement. In-degree centrality (being nominated by many co-workers as a friend) was positively associated with engagement, whereas out-degree centrality (nominating many co-workers as a friend) was negatively associated with engagement.

Originality/value

The results support recent findings concerning more multifaceted antecedents of engagement and exhaustion, and underline the importance considering social network characteristics in investigations of work engagement. On a methodological level, the differing results for in-degree and out-degree centrality underline the importance of not only relying on self-reported social relationships but to also capture other-reported data.
Nikhilesh Dholakia: critical path, perils and unending quest
Authors: Dholakia Nikhilesh
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to trace the personal and intellectual evolution of the author via an autobiographic approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Personal, reflective, interpretive, historical narrative.

Findings

For the author, the writing of this paper opened new and reflective windows on personal and intellectual evolution, and similar effects may happen with some of the readers.

Research limitations/implications

Some of the critical directions suggested herein could possibly inspire innovative critical marketing work.

Practical implications

There may be some insights on how to blend observations of the world at large with critical theories gleaned from the literature.

Social implications

The paper offers reflections of the unequal, unjust state of the world, and this could inspire others to seek innovative ameliorative pathways.

Originality/value

As an autobiographical narrative, this paper – by definition – is original and unique.
Tumor necrosis factor –238A is associated with pediatric‐onset generalized pustular psoriasis in Han patients in Eastern China
Authors: Zhao Lishi , Sun Chang , Li Ming , Wang Qianqiu , Long Fu‐Quan
Published: August 2019

The correlation between polymorphisms at the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) gene and generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) has rarely been reported. The goal of this study is to investigate whether TNF polymorphisms (−238 A/G, −308 A/G, −857C/T) are associated with susceptibility to GPP in a Han population from Eastern China and to perform subgroup analysis to explore the influence of age onset. Polymorphisms were assessed by polymerase chain reaction amplification and resequencing in 91 GPP patients and 102 healthy controls. The frequencies of the TNF −238A allele and GA+AA genotypes were significantly higher in GPP patients than in those of healthy controls. The subgroup analysis revealed that these significant associations were still present between −238A variants and pediatric‐onset GPP patients who developed GPP at less than 18 years old (PGPP), but not for patients with adult‐onset GPP who developed GPP at 18 years old or more. There were no significant differences in genotype or allele frequencies of TNF −308 A/G and −857C/T polymorphisms between GPP and controls. In conclusion, individuals carrying TNF −238A may be more susceptible to PGPP.