bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR‐297 acts as an oncogene by targeting GPC5 in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Yunchuan , Zhao Jianyong , Yin Xiaoming , Yuan Xiangkun , Guo Jianfei , Bi Jianqiang
Published: August 2016

Objectives

Emerging studies have demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in carcinogenesis of many developing human tumours. However, the functions and mechanisms of miR‐297 in lung cancer have, up to now, been largely undefined.

Materials and methods

Here, miR‐297 expression was measured in lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cell lines, using qRT‐PCR. Lung adenocarcinoma cell line was treated with an miR‐297 mimic. MTT and colony analysis were performed to detect cell proliferation and colony formation. The direct target gene of miR‐297 was assessed by qRT‐PCR, Western blotting and luciferase assays.

Results

We demonstrated that miR‐297 expression was upregulated in lung adenocarcinomas compared to adjacent normal tissues. Expression of miR‐297 was also upregulated in tested lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. Ectopic expression of miR‐297 enhanced lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation and colony formation. Furthermore, overexpression of miR‐297 promoted cell migration and invasion. In addition, we identified Glypican‐5 (GPC5) as a direct target gene of miR‐297 in lung adenocarcinoma cells. Expression of GPC5 was downregulated in both lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cell lines. Moreover, expression of GPC5 was inversely associated with expression of miR‐297 in lung adenocarcinoma tissues.

Conclusions

These results suggest that miR‐297 acted as an oncogenic miRNA, partly by targeting GPC5, adenocarcinoma of the lung.
Intrahepatic NK cells function suppressed in advanced liver fibrosis
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Min , Liu Jing , Huang Zhanlian , Zhao Qiyi , Huang Yuehua , Li Xu , Gao Zhiliang
Published: August 2016

Background

Although numerous epidemiological studies indicate that hepatitis B virus‐related liver fibrosis (HBV‐LF), particularly cirrhosis, represents the main risk factor for liver cancer development, the mechanisms determining the persistence of fibrosis and liver cancer pathogenesis are still poorly defined. Few studies have investigated the status of NK cells during different stages of HBV‐LF.

Methods

Liver tissues at least 3 cm away from the tumour site and peripheral blood were obtained simultaneously from 32 HBV‐infected patients undergoing surgery for HCC at the medical centre of Sun Yat‐sen University. We detected the amount of NK cells and analysed the phenotype and function of NK cells by flow cytometry.

Results

We found that there was no difference in the amount of circulating and intrahepatic NK cells between early and advanced HBV‐LF. However, NKp46 expression on intrahepatic NK cells decreased and productions of IFN‐γ and perforin of intrahepatic NK cells declined apparently in patients with advanced HBV‐LF.

Conclusion

In the present study, we displayed that in patients with advanced HBV‐LF, the expression of NKp46 on intrahepatic NK cells as well as productions of IFN‐γ and perforin of intrahepatic NK cells decreased significantly. These results indicated that the immune function of intrahepatic NK cells in patients with advanced HBV‐LF was suppressed distinctly, which provided new insight into the potential role of NK cells in the persistence of fibrosis and into the occurrence of HCC following cirrhosis.
Feeding behavioral response of cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, to elevated CO2: EPG test with leaf microstructure and leaf chemistry
Authors: Jiang Shoulin , Liu Tongjin , Yu Fulan , Li Teng , Parajulee Megha N. , Zhang Limin , Chen Fajun
Published: August 2016

Effect of elevated CO2 on feeding behavior of the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii (Glover) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), was investigated using electrical penetration graphs (EPG) on cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae). Leaf microstructures and foliar soluble constituents were also measured simultaneously to quantify the impact of foliar changes on leaf nutritional quantity and quality, owing to elevated CO2, on stylet penetration and food‐quality plasticity of A. gossypii. Significant increases in fresh body weight, fecundity, and population abundances of A. gossypii were found in elevated CO2 in contrast to ambient CO2. Elevated CO2 influenced the feeding behavior, as evidenced by altered EPG recordings, including the increased non‐penetration period (walking and finding the feeding site), E2<8 min (probes with sustained ingestion of <8 min), and first E2>8 min (first occurrence of probes with sustained ingestion of >8 min), and decreased E2>8 min recordings. Moreover, leaf microstructures were significantly affected by CO2 levels, with thinner upside epidermis (UPE) and thicker underside epidermis (UDE), sponge tissues (ST), and fence tissues under elevated CO2 compared to that in ambient CO2. Therefore, it is expected that A. gossypii spend more time penetrating the thicker leaf UDE and ST when the host plant is exposed to elevated CO2. Furthermore, elevated CO2 significantly enhanced foliar soluble matter, including soluble sugars (SS), free amino acids and fatty acids (FFA), and total soluble matter (TSM), which was congruent with significant increase or decrease in leaf turgor or osmotic potential. Increased leaf turgor and leaf soluble constituents favored ingestion in A. gossypii, resulting in increases in fresh body weight, fecundity, and population abundances under elevated CO2. These feeding behaviors and resulting population growth parameters are consistent with the significant positive correlations between aphid fresh body weight and foliar FFA/TSM, between A. gossypii fecundity and foliar SS of cotton plants, and between the time of E2<8 min recordings and leaf turgor.
Impacts of nitrogen fertilizer on major insect pests and their predators in transgenic Bt rice lines T2A‐1 and T1C‐19
Authors: Yang Yajun , Liu Kai , Han Hailiang , Xu Hongxing , Zhang Facheng , Zheng Xusong , Tian Junce , Wang Guiyue , Chen Guihua , Lu Zhongxian
Published: August 2016

Nitrogen is a critical factor for plant development and nitrogen input is one of the important tactics to enhance the development and yield of crops. Nevertheless, nitrogen input could influence the occurrence of insects positively or negatively. Nitrogen is also one of the main elements composing the insecticidal crystal (Cry) protein. Cry protein production could affect nitrogen partitioning in Bt plants and as such nitrogen input may influence insect pest management in transgenic Bt rice, Oryza sativa L. (Poaceae). To test this possibility, we evaluated the impacts of nitrogen regimes on the main insect pests and their predators on two Bt rice lines, T2A‐1 and T1C‐19, expressing Cry2A and Cry1C, respectively, and their non‐transgenic parental counterpart MH63. The results showed that Cry proteins with different nitrogen regimes have enough insecticidal activity on rice leaffolder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Guenée (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), in both laboratory and field experiments. Laboratory studies indicated that relevant parameters of ecological fitness in brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), a non‐target insect pest, were significantly affected by nitrogen input both on Bt and MH63 rice lines. Nymphal survival, female adult longevity, and egg hatchability in N. lugens differed significantly among rice varieties. The experiments conducted in rice fields also demonstrated that nitrogen was positively correlated with the abundance of N. lugens on Bt rice, similar to that on MH63 rice. The abundances of two predators – the wolf spider Pirata subpiraticus (Boesenberg & Strand) (Araneae: Lycosidae) and the bug Cyrthorhinus lividipennis Reuter (Hemiptera: Miridae) – were significantly affected by rice growth stages but not by nitrogen input and rice varieties. In conclusion, the above results indicate that high nitrogen regimes for Bt rice (T2A‐1 and T1C‐19) and non‐Bt rice (MH63) cannot facilitate the management of insect pests.
Diel activity and preferred landing sites in Culicoides biting midges attacking Fjord horses
Authors: Elbers A.R.W. , van den Heuvel S‐J. , Meiswinkel R.
Published: August 2016

In the summer of 2014, in the central part of The Netherlands, Culicoides spp. (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) attack rates, biting rates, and preferred landing sites were determined for a pair of Fjord horses maintained permanently at pasture in an area devoid of cattle. Eleven body regions of the horses were screened for midges, each region sampled randomly for 5 min using a handheld mouth aspirator (pooter). Observations were confined to the hour immediately before and after sunset. Culicoides spp. were obtained from every body region, of which the four most abundant species – Culicoides chiopterus (Meigen), Culicoides punctatus (Meigen), the species complex Culicoides obsoletus (Meigen), and Culicoides dewulfi Goetghebuer – all were proven or potential vectors for arboviral diseases in livestock. Culicoides spp. activity was distinctly bimodal across the day, surging at sunset and 1 h after sunrise. Midges were inactive between 11:00 and 16:00 hours, these hours marking the time of day when horses can be pastured most safely but, thereafter, to avoid escalating attacks, would have to be stabled protectively. Around sunset, the mean attack rate of the four most abundant species ranged from 3.0 to 11.7 midges per min; of these, C. dewulfi and C. chiopterus were reared out of the dung of experimental horses. The Netherlands is home to the world's densest horse population (11 per km2), of which half are estimated to stay outdoors permanently with no access to protective housing. In the absence of a preventive vaccination policy, it is difficult to envisage how horses in northern Europe will be protected from infection during an outbreak of a Culicoides‐transmitted disease like African horse sickness.
Butterflies and plants: preference/performance studies in relation to plant size and the use of intact plants vs. cuttings
Authors: Friberg Magne , Wiklund Christer
Published: August 2016

Plants have evolved a number of defences to ameliorate herbivore attacks including chemicals induced by mechanical wounding. Such changes in plant chemical composition are potential confounding factors in experiments on plant–insect interactions, which often present cuttings of potential host plants to phytophagous insects. In particular, this could affect studies of female egg‐laying preference and larval performance, because the same plant chemicals that deter certain generalist insects can elevate attacks from more specialized insects. Furthermore, plant cuttings are by definition smaller than intact plants, and any female host size preference could thus affect experiments using plant cuttings. We first assessed female preference and larval performance of a specialist herbivore, Pieris napi (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae, Pierini), confronted with either intact plants or leaf‐cuttings of four Brassicaceae host plants, Alliaria petiolata (Bieb.) Cavara & Grande, Barbarea vulgaris (L.) WT Aiton, Berteroa incana (L.) DC., and Brassica napus (L.). Egg and larval survival did not differ between intact plants and leaf‐cuttings, whereas larval growth was slightly, but significantly, faster on leaf‐cuttings. Females, however, significantly preferred to lay eggs on intact plants of all four hosts, although the preference hierarchy for the intact plants was largely mirrored by that for leaf‐cuttings. We then tested the female preference for different size‐classes of intact B. napus plants. Small individuals received more eggs than larger individuals, and follow‐up experiments showed that this difference was largely generated by a strong female preference for cotyledon leaves; there was no significant difference in female preference for large and small individuals when both carried cotyledons, and females landing on cotyledons were more likely to oviposit compared to when landing on a true leaf. Our study concludes that plant cuttings can serve as adequate proxies for live plants for preference/performance studies, but that experimentalists should be aware of the variation imposed both by plant handling and plant phenology for female oviposition preference.
Race as a Moderator of Associations Between Spanking and Child Outcomes
Authors: Gershoff Elizabeth T. , Grogan‐Kaylor Andrew
Published: August 2016

The cultural normativeness perspective argues that parenting practices such as spanking are more beneficial for children when they occur in cultural groups within which they are normative. Research on this issue in the United States has focused on race as a marker of culture, and findings have been mixed. The present study presents meta‐analyses of five studies that reported effect sizes separately for White (n = 11,814) and Black (n = 3,065) American children (5 to 14 years of age). Mean weighted effect sizes for both groups indicated statistically significant associations with detrimental outcomes; they were not statistically significantly different from one another. Contrary to the cultural normativeness perspective, these results demonstrate that spanking is similarly associated with detrimental outcomes for White and Black children in the United States.
Evolving telehealth reimbursement in Australia
Authors: Bursell S.‐E. , Zang S. , Keech A. C. , Jenkins A. J.
Published: August 2016

Video‐based consultation is the only telehealth service reimbursed by the Medicare Benefits Schedule in Australia, but the uptake of telehealth is still low and inconsistent. There is a clear need for the development of appropriate medical evidence to support implementation of telehealth services. With the ubiquitous use of mobile phones, mobile health becomes important in facilitating health services and impacting clinical outcomes anywhere.
A functional magnetic resonance imaging study of the neuronal specificity of an acupoint: acupuncture at Rangu (KI2) and its sham point
Authors: Li A. , Li X.‐L. , Zhang F. , Yue J.‐H. , Yuan C.‐S. , Li K. , Zhang Q.‐H.
Published: August 2016

The neuronal specificity of acupoints has not been entirely supported by the results of previous functional magnetic resource imaging studies. This study tested the specificity of an acupoint using right Rangu (KI2) and its sham acupoint. The results showed specific cerebral response patterns and thus provided the evidence of the existence of acupoint neuronal specificity.
Guidelines for timely initiation of chemotherapy: a proposed framework for access to medical oncology and haematology cancer clinics and chemotherapy services
Authors: Alexander M. , Beattie‐Manning R. , Blum R. , Byrne J. , Hornby C. , Kearny C. , Love N. , McGlashan J. , McKiernan S. , Milar J. L. , Murray D. , Opat S. , Parente P. , Thomas J. , Tweddle N. , Underhill C. , Whitfield K. , Kirsa S. , Rischin D.
Published: August 2016

These guidelines, informed by the best available evidence and consensus expert opinion, provide a framework to guide the timely initiation of chemotherapy for treating cancer. They sit at the intersection of patient experience, state‐of‐the‐art disease management and rational efficient service provision for these patients at a system level. Internationally, cancer waiting times are routinely measured and publicly reported. In Australia, there are existing policies and guidelines relating to the timeliness of cancer care for surgery and radiation therapy; however, until now, equivalent guidance for chemotherapy was lacking. Timeliness of care should be informed, where available, by evidence for improved patient outcomes. Independent of this, it should be recognised that shorter waiting periods are likely to reduce patient anxiety. While these guidelines were developed as part of a proposed framework for consideration by the Victorian Department of Health, they are clinically relevant to national and international cancer services. They are intended to be used by clinical and administrative staff within cancer services. Adoption of these guidelines, which are for the timely triage, review and treatment of cancer patients receiving systemic chemotherapy, aims to ensure that patients receive care within a timeframe that will maximise health outcomes, and that access to care is consistent and equitable across cancer services. Local monitoring of performance against this guideline will enable cancer service providers to manage proactively future service demand.
Detection and clinical significance of glomerular M‐type phospholipase A2 receptor in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy
Authors: Liu H. , Luo W. , Gong S. , Ding X.
Published: August 2016

Background

Glomerular M‐type phospholipase A2
receptor (PLA2R) is important for diagnosing idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). The relation between glomerular PLA2R expression and response to treatment remains to be explored.

Aims

We conducted the study to explore the positive rate and clinical significance of glomerular M‐type PLA2R in IMN patients.

Methods

A total of 122 IMN patients receiving neither glucocorticoid nor immunosuppressant therapy prior to renal biopsies was included and followed for more than 1 year. The control group comprised 30 patients with secondary membranous nephropathy and 100 patients with non‐membranous forms of nephropathy. PLA2R level and IgG subclasses in glomeruli were detected. The primary end‐point was the reduction of proteinuria to less than 50% of baseline value.

Results

A total of 82.0% of patients with IMN had positive glomerular PLA2R deposits, compared with 16.7% in the secondary membranous nephropathy group (P < 0.001). Additionally, PLA2R‐positive expression combined with IgG4 ≥ 2+ was found in 94.3% IMN patients, compared with 40.0% in secondary membranous nephropathy patients (P < 0.01). Among IMN patients, the remission rate of proteinuria after either glucocorticoid or glucocorticoid combined immunosuppressant therapy for at least 6 months was 83.9% in the PLA2R‐positive group compared with 54.5% in the negative group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The positive rate of glomerular PLA2R was more prevalent in IMN patients. Both PLA2R and IgG4 glomerular deposits may help in discriminating between idiopathic and secondary membranous nephropathy. IMN patients with positive PLA2R expression probably have a more beneficial response to glucocorticoid and/or immunosuppressant therapy.
Physician's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding seasonal influenza, pandemic influenza, and highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) virus infections of humans in Indonesia
Authors: Mangiri Amalya , Iuliano A. Danielle , Wahyuningrum Yunita , Praptiningsih Catharina Y. , Lafond Kathryn E. , Storms Aaron D. , Samaan Gina , Ariawan Iwan , Soeharno Nugroho , Kreslake Jennifer M. , Storey J. Douglas , Uyeki Timothy M.
Published: August 2016

Indonesia has reported highest number of fatal human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) virus infection worldwide since 2005. There are limited data available on seasonal and pandemic influenza in Indonesia. During 2012, we conducted a survey of clinicians in two districts in western Java, Indonesia, to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of clinical diagnosis, testing, and treatment of patients with seasonal influenza, pandemic influenza, or HPAI H5N1 virus infections. Overall, a very low percentage of physician participants reported ever diagnosing hospitalized patients with seasonal, pandemic, or HPAI H5N1 influenza. Use of influenza testing was low in outpatients and hospitalized patients, and use of antiviral treatment was very low for clinically diagnosed influenza patients. Further research is needed to explore health system barriers for influenza diagnostic testing and availability of antivirals for treatment of influenza in Indonesia.
Electric Field‐Induced Light Scattering in Eu‐Doped PMN‐PT Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Zhou Yibo , Zhao Kunyu , Ruan Wei , Zeng Jiangtao , Zheng Liaoying , Li Guorong
Published: August 2016

Highly transparent Eu‐doped Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3(PMN‐PT) ferroelectric ceramics were obtained by a two‐stage sintering method. Eu doping play a significant role in the domain structures of PMN‐PT ceramics and resulted in different light scattering responses under electric field. The dielectric behaviors, ferroelectric properties, and domain configurations in the ceramics with increasing Eu doping concentration were studied, which were consistent with the electric field‐induced light scattering responses.
Refining and validating a conceptual model of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery
Authors: Bender Miriam , Williams Marjory , Su Wei , Hites Lisle
Published: August 2016

Aims

To empirically validate a conceptual model of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery.

Background

There is limited evidence of frontline care delivery models that consistently achieve quality patient outcomes. Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery is a promising nursing model with a growing record of success. However, theoretical clarity is necessary to generate causal evidence of effectiveness.

Design

Sequential mixed methods.

Methods

A preliminary Clinical Nurse Leader practice model was refined and survey items developed to correspond with model domains, using focus groups and a Delphi process with a multi‐professional expert panel. The survey was administered in 2015 to clinicians and administrators involved in Clinical Nurse Leader initiatives. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling were used to validate the measurement and model structure.

Results

Final sample n = 518. The model incorporates 13 components organized into five conceptual domains: ‘Readiness for Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery’; ‘Structuring Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery’; ‘Clinical Nurse Leader Practice: Continuous Clinical Leadership’; ‘Outcomes of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery’; and ‘Value’. Sample data had good fit with specified model and two‐level measurement structure. All hypothesized pathways were significant, with strong coefficients suggesting good fit between theorized and observed path relationships.

Conclusions

The validated model articulates an explanatory pathway of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery, including Clinical Nurse Leader practices that result in improved care dynamics and patient outcomes. The validated model provides a basis for testing in practice to generate evidence that can be deployed across the healthcare spectrum.
What Effect Does Transition Have on Health and Well‐Being in Young People with Intellectual Disabilities? A Systematic Review
Authors: Young‐Southward Genevieve , Philo Christopher , Cooper Sally‐Ann
Published: August 2016

Background

Transition to adulthood might be a risk period for poor health in people with intellectual disabilities. However, the present authors could find no synthesis of evidence on health and well‐being outcomes during transition in this population. This review aimed to answer this question.

Method

PRISMA/MOOSE guidelines were followed. Search terms were defined, electronic searches of six databases were conducted, reference lists and key journals were reviewed, and grey literature was searched. Papers were selected based on clear inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from the selected papers, and their quality was systematically reviewed. The review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO: CRD42015016905.

Results

A total of 15 985 articles were extracted; of these, 17 met the inclusion criteria. The results of these articles were mixed but suggested the presence of some health and well‐being issues in this population during transition to adulthood, including obesity and sexual health issues.

Conclusion

This review reveals a gap in the literature on transition and health and points to the need for future work in this area.
Present and past climatic effects on the current distribution and genetic diversity of the Iberian spadefoot toad (Pelobates cultripes): an integrative approach
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez Jorge , Barbosa A. Márcia , Martínez‐Solano Íñigo
Published: August 2016

Aim

Predicting species responses to global change is one of the most pressing issues in conservation biogeography. A key part of the problem is understanding how organisms have reacted to climatic changes in the past. Here, we use species distribution modelling to infer the effects of climate changes since the Last Interglacial (LIG, c. 130,000 yr bp) on patterns of genetic structure and diversity in the western spadefoot toad (Pelobates cultripes) in combination with spatially explicit phylogeographical analyses.

Location

Iberian Peninsula and mainland France.

Methods

Five hundred and twenty‐four individuals from 54 populations across the species range were sampled to document patterns of genetic diversity and infer their evolutionary history based on data from mtDNA and 14 polymorphic microsatellites. Generalized linear models based on distribution data were used to infer climatic favourability for the species in the present and in palaeoclimatic simulations for the LIG, the mid‐Holocene and the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM).

Results

Estimates of genetic diversity show a decreasing trend from south to north, suggesting persistence of high historical population sizes in the southern Iberian Peninsula. Species distribution models show differences in climatic favourability through time, with significant correlations between historically stable favourable areas and current patterns of genetic diversity. These results are corroborated by Bayesian skyline plots and continuous diffusion phylogeographical analyses.

Main conclusions

The results indicate the presence of southern refugia, with moderate recent expansions at the northern end of the species’ range. Toads at the northern range margin exhibit the lowest genetic diversity and occupy areas of high past climate variability, classified as marginal in terms of favourability, rendering these populations most vulnerable to climate‐mediated changes in the long term.
Melanoma antigens are biomarkers for ipilimumab response
Authors: Arenberger P. , Fialova A. , Gkalpakiotis S. , Pavlikova A. , Puzanov I. , Arenbergerova M.
Published: August 2016

Background

Novel immunotherapy modalities significantly improve survival of patients with metastatic melanoma. However, CTLA‐4‐blocking monoclonal antibody ipilimumab is effective only in a small proportion of patients. Biomarkers for prediction of treatment response are indispensably needed.

Objective

To determine the utility of multimarker detection of circulating melanoma cells as prognostic and pharmacodynamic biomarker in patients with metastatic melanoma treated with ipilimumab.

Methods

Patients (n = 62) with metastatic melanoma in unresectable stage III or metastatic stage IV treated with ipilimumab were recruited prospectively. The values of four melanoma markers on circulating cells Melan‐A, gp100, MAGE‐3 and melanoma inhibitory antigen prior to the treatment and within the therapy were compared to the data collected at baseline – after the melanoma surgery.

Results

The immunotherapy pretreatment marker level was found to be prognostic of overall survival; lower levels were linked to longer survival time. Moreover, longitudinal follow‐up of melanoma markers in patients treated with ipilimumab correlates with therapy response. A decline of marker levels by >30% at week 6 (in 83% of the responding subjects) to week 9 (in all responders) of ipilimumab administration was associated with response to therapy. Elevation of the tumour markers during the treatment precedes clinical progression and gives an early warning of treatment failure.

Conclusion

Melanoma circulating cells hold potential as predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarker of immunotherapy.
Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus: a widespread bipartite begomovirus in the territory of monopartite begomoviruses
Authors: Zaidi Syed Shan‐E‐Ali , Martin Darren P. , Amin Imran , Farooq Muhammad , Mansoor Shahid
Published: August 2016

Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) is an exceptional Old World bipartite begomovirus. On the Indian subcontinent, a region in which monopartite DNA satellite‐associated begomoviruses with mostly narrow geographical ranges predominate, it is widespread, with a geographical range also including the Far East, Middle East, North Africa and Europe. The success of ToLCNDV probably derives from its broad host range and highly flexible genomic configuration: its DNA‐A component is capable of productively interacting with, and trans‐replicating, diverse DNA‐B components and betasatellites. An understanding of the capacity of ToLCNDV to infect a variety of hosts and spread across a broad and ecologically variable geographical range could illuminate the potential economic threats associated with similar begomoviral invasions. Towards this end, we used available ToLCNDV sequences to reconstruct the history of ToLCNDV spread.

Taxonomy

Family Geminiviridae, Genus Begomovirus. ToLCNDV is a bipartite begomovirus. Following the revised begomovirus taxonomic criteria of 91% and 94% nucleotide identity for species and strain demarcation, respectively, ToLCNDV is a distinct species with two strains: ToLCNDV and ToLCNDV‐Spain.

Host range

The primary cultivated host of ToLCNDV is tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), but the virus is also known to infect 43 other plant species from a range of families, including Cucurbitaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Solanaceae, Malvaceae and Fabaceae.

Disease symptoms

Typical symptoms of ToLCNDV infection in its various hosts include leaf curling, vein thickening, puckering, purpling/darkening of leaf margins, leaf area reduction, internode shortening and severe stunting.
Atrial Tachycardia Originating in the Vicinity of the Noncoronary Sinus of Valsalva: Report of a Series Including the First Case of Ablation‐Related Complete Atrioventricular Block
Authors: BARKAGAN MICHAEL , MICHOWITZ YOAV , GLICK AHARON , TOVIA‐BRODIE OHOLI , ROSSO RAPHAEL , BELHASSEN BERNARD
Published: August 2016

Background

A few series of focal atrial tachycardia (AT) originating from the noncoronary sinus of Valsalva (NCSV) have been reported in the literature during the last decade.

Methods and Results

Of 147 patients with AT referred for radiofrequency ablation (RFA), we identified nine (6%) originating in the vicinity of the NCSV. Clinical AT was induced during electrophysiological study in all patients without (n = 6) and with (n = 3) isoproterenol infusion. Mean cycle length of the induced tachycardia was 399 ± 85 ms. Mapping of the right atrium and of the left atrium (LA) was initially performed in all nine patients and in four patients, respectively. Earliest tachycardia activation occurred at the His bundle area in all cases. Earliest activations in the LA were at the low paraseptal regions. In two patients with antegrade dual atrioventricular (AV) node physiology that rendered difficult accurate distinction between atrial and ventricular activation, slow pathway ablation was necessary. A retrograde aortic approach was used for mapping the aortic cusps. The earliest local atrial activation in the NCSV preceded the atrial activation in the His area in all patients by 27 ± 8 ms. RFA was performed in all nine patients and was acutely successful in eight. Two patients required radiofrequency (RF) energy outputs of 50 W in order to terminate the arrhythmia. In one patient, successful AT ablation was associated with complete AV block requiring implantation of permanent pacemaker.

Conclusions

Focal AT can be successfully mapped and ablated in the NCSV. Higher than usual RF energy levels are sometimes required. Complete AV block is a possible complication.
Uncovering the holes and cracks: from anecdote to testable hypotheses in predation studies
Authors: Harper Elizabeth M.
Published: August 2016

Biological interactions between organisms have long been believed to be very important in structuring communities and, when scaled up over geological time, in the evolution of organisms. Investigations of palaeontological evidence for predator–prey interactions have been popular pursuits, and a number of attractive hypotheses have been proposed which link increased predation pressure with a wide range of morphological and ecological changes which are apparent over the course of the Phanerozoic. In particular studies of fossil drill holes and repair scars in shelly prey have been common targets for research. However, the nature of some of our data has been rather anecdotal and restricted in range. Perhaps we should be more concerned that we are not picking up the true range of natural variability. This paper aims to highlight the sources of variability in our data and, going forward, to urge the collection of quantitative data from many more samples and (palaeo)environmental settings in order that we might properly be able to separate the intrinsic natural variability in our data from robust temporal or spatial trends.
Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis
Authors: Emiralioglu Nagehan , Beken Burcin , Ozcan Hatice Nursun , Yalcin Ebru , Dogru Deniz , Ozcelik Ugur , Haliloglu Mithat , Kiper Nural
Published: August 2016

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare genetic disease caused by mutations in sodium–phosphate co‐transporter (SLC34A2), which encodes a type 2b sodium phosphate co‐transporter. Disease is characterized by intra‐alveolar microlith formation of phosphate. Turkey has a high prevalence of PAM. Herein, we report the clinical and radiological findings of three patients diagnosed with PAM and treated with disodium etidronate.
Risk of Childhood Cancer and Socio‐economic Disparities: Results of the French Nationwide Study Geocap 2002–2010
Authors: Marquant Fabienne , Goujon Stéphanie , Faure Laure , Guissou Sandra , Orsi Laurent , Hémon Denis , Lacour Brigitte , Clavel Jacqueline
Published: August 2016

Background

Socio‐economic status is related to many life style and environmental factors, some of which have been suggested to influence the risk of childhood cancer. Studies requiring subject participation are usually hampered by selection of more educated parents. To prevent such bias, we used unselected nationwide Geographical Information System (GIS)‐based registry data, to investigate the influence of socio‐economic disparities on the risk of childhood cancer.

Methods

The Geocap study included all French residents diagnosed with cancer aged up to 15 years over the period 2002–2010 (15 111 cases) and 45 000 contemporaneous controls representative of the childhood population. Area socio‐economic characteristics used to calculate the European Deprivation Index (EDI) were based on census data collected on the fine scale of the Merged Islet for Statistical Information (IRIS).

Results

Overall, the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) was lower in the most deprived quintile than in the other quintiles of EDI (ORQ5vs<Q5 0.80 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.73, 0.88)). The odds ratio for all the other cancers taken together was close to the null (ORQ5vs<Q5 0.99 (95% CI 0.94, 1.04)).

Conclusion

Living in the most deprived areas was inversely associated with the risk of ALL in childhood. There was no indication that the risk of childhood cancer of any site could be increased by deprivation. Life style or environmental factors potentially underlying the association need further investigation.
Polls & Elections: Superdelegates or Supertrustees? The Timing and Consistency of Superdelegate Decisions
Authors: Christenson Dino P. , Heidemann Erik D.
Published: August 2016

Do superdelegates heed public opinion in deciding whom to support in nomination contests or do they follow their own conscience? We examine both individual and environmental factors peculiar to superdelegate decision making to ascertain whether and how they integrate populist considerations into their nomination choices. Via a survey of superdelegates in the 2008 presidential nomination contest, we analyze both the timing of a superdelegate's decision as well as any change in their candidate preference. Superdelegates who prioritize constituent concerns endorse earlier but are no more or less likely to switch their candidate preference during the campaign.
Acute effects of moderate aerobic exercise on specific aspects of executive function in different age and fitness groups: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ludyga Sebastian , Gerber Markus , Brand Serge , Holsboer‐Trachsler Edith , Pühse Uwe
Published: August 2016

Whereas a wealth of studies have investigated acute effects of moderate aerobic exercise on executive function, the roles of age, fitness, and the component of executive function in this relationship still remain unclear. Therefore, the present meta‐analysis investigates exercise‐induced benefits on specific aspects of executive function in different age and aerobic fitness subgroups. Based on data from 40 experimental studies, a small effect of aerobic exercise on time‐dependent measures (g = .35) and accuracy (g = .22) in executive function tasks was confirmed. The results further suggest that preadolescent children (g = .54) and older adults (g = .67) compared to other age groups benefit more from aerobic exercise when reaction time is considered as dependent variable. In contrast to age, aerobic fitness and the executive function component had no influence on the obtained effect sizes. Consequently, high aerobic fitness is no prerequisite for temporary improvements of the executive control system, and low‐ as well as high‐fit individuals seem to benefit from exercise in a similar way. However, a higher sensitivity of executive function to acute aerobic exercise was found in individuals undergoing developmental changes. Therefore, preadolescent children and older adults in particular might strategically use a single aerobic exercise session to prepare for a situation demanding high executive control.
The benefits of cooling boar semen in long‐term extenders prior to cryopreservation on sperm quality characteristics
Authors: Wasilewska K , Zasiadczyk Ł , Fraser L , Mogielnicka‐Brzozowska M , Kordan W
Published: August 2016

Contents

This study investigated the effects of long‐term extenders on post‐thaw sperm quality characteristics following different holding times (HT) of boar semen at 17 and 10°C. Sperm‐rich fractions, collected from five boars, were diluted in Androhep® Plus (AHP), Androstar® Plus (ASP), Safecell® Plus and TRIXcell® Plus (TCP) extenders. The extended semen samples were held for 2 hr at 17°C (HT 1) and additionally for 24 hr at 10°C (HT 2), after they were evaluated and frozen. CASA sperm motility and motion patterns, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), plasma membrane integrity (PMI) and normal apical ridge (NAR) acrosome integrity were assessed in the pre‐freeze and frozen‐thawed semen. The Vybrant Apoptosis Assay Kit was used to analyse the proportions of viable and plasma membrane apoptotic‐like changes in spermatozoa. Results indicated that boar variability, extender and HT significantly affected the sperm quality characteristics, particularly after freezing‐thawing. Differences in the pre‐freeze semen were more marked in the sperm motion patterns between the HTs. Pre‐freeze semen in HT 2 showed significantly higher VCL and VAP, whereas no marked effects were observed in the sperm membrane integrity and viability (YO‐PRO‐1−/PI−) among the extenders. Post‐thaw sperm TMOT and PMOT were significantly higher in the AHP and ASP extenders of HT 2 group, whereas VSL, VCL and VAP were markedly lower in the TCP extender. Furthermore, spermatozoa from the AHP‐ and ASP‐extended semen of HT 2 group were characterized by higher MMP, PMI and NAR acrosome integrity following freezing‐thawing. In most of the extenders, the incidence of frozen‐thawed spermatozoa with apoptotic‐like changes was greater in HT 1. The findings of this study indicate that holding of boar semen at 10°C for 24 hr in long‐term preservation extenders modulates post‐thaw sperm quality characteristics in an extender‐dependent manner. These results will further contribute to the improvement in the cryopreservation technology of boar semen.
Comprehensive attenuation of IL‐25‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammation and remodelling by the PI3K inhibitor LY294002
Authors: Huang Ping , Li Yan , Lv Ze , Wang Jingjing , Zhang Qian , Yao Xiujuan , Corrigan Chris J. , Huang Kewu , Wang Wei , Ying Sun
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Existing in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that both IL‐25 and phosphoinositide 3‐kinases (PI3Ks) exhibit broad effects on the functions of immune cells implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. Whether the blockade of PI3K signalling directly inhibits the asthma relevant pathogenetic changes induced by IL‐25 in an in vivo condition is still unclear. Using an established IL‐25‐induced murine model of asthma, we undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of co‐administered LY294002, a pharmacological pan‐inhibitor of PI3K on IL‐25‐induced changes on this model, with particular regard to airway remodelling.

Methods

BALB/c mice were serially intranasally challenged with IL‐25 according to an established protocol to induce airway inflammation, hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and remodelling. In an additional subgroup LY294002 was administered intranasally. Lung function and airway cytokine and chemokine concentrations and cellular infiltration and remodelling changes assessed by histology and immunohistochemistry were measured at specific time points.

Results

Intranasal administration of LY294002 significantly inhibited IL‐25‐induced AHR and recruitment of inflammatory cells into bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. LY294002 also attenuated IL‐25‐induced increased concentrations of cytokines and chemokines in lung tissue. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis showed that LY294002 also significantly inhibited IL‐25‐induced lung tissue eosinophilia, mucus production, collagen deposition, smooth muscle hypertrophy and angiogenesis.

Conclusion

The PI3K pan‐inhibitor LY294002 attenuated not only IL‐25‐induced asthma‐like AHR and airway inflammation but also remodelling in this model, suggesting that PI3K is a major downstream messenger for IL‐25 and that targeting this pathway might reduce asthma symptoms in the short term and airway remodelling in the longer term.
More Dialysis Has Not Proven Much Better
Authors: O'Brien Frank J. , Fong Kara D. , Sirich Tammy L. , Meyer Timothy W.
Published: August 2016

Patients maintained on standard three times weekly hemodialysis have a high mortality rate and a limited quality of life. Some of this illness is due to systemic diseases that have caused kidney failure, and thus may be irreversible. But we presume that imperfect replacement of normal kidney function by dialysis contributes importantly. Patients on hemodialysis are subject to fluctuations in extracellular fluid volume and inorganic ion concentrations and their plasma levels of many organic waste solutes remain very high. It is thus natural to suppose that their health could be improved by increasing the intensity of dialysis treatment. But despite a great deal of work over the past 20 years, evidence that such improvement can be obtained is generally lacking. Specific benefits can indeed be achieved. Patients who cannot control their intradialytic weight gains or plasma phosphate levels with standard therapy can benefit from extending treatment time. But we cannot promise the average patient that longer or more frequent treatment will reduce mortality or improve the quality of life.
Changes in cytokinins are sufficient to alter developmental patterns of defense metabolites in Nicotiana attenuata
Authors: Brütting Christoph , Schäfer Martin , Vanková Radomíra , Gase Klaus , Baldwin Ian T. , Meldau Stefan
Published: August 2016

Plant defense metabolites are well known to be regulated developmentally. The optimal defense (OD) theory posits that a tssue's fitness values and probability of attack should determine defense metabolite allocations. Young leaves are expected to provide a larger fitness value to the plant, and therefore their defense allocations should be higher when compared with older leaves. The mechanisms that coordinate development with defense remain unknown and frequently confound tests of the OD theory predictions. Here we demonstrate that cytokinins (CKs) modulate ontogeny‐dependent defenses in Nicotiana attenuata. We found that leaf CK levels highly correlate with inducible defense expressions with high levels in young and low levels in older leaves. We genetically manipulated the developmental patterns of two different CK classes by using senescence‐ and chemically inducible expression of CK biosynthesis genes. Genetically modifying the levels of different CKs in leaves was sufficient to alter ontogenic patterns of defense metabolites. We conclude that the developmental regulation of growth hormones that include CKs plays central roles in connecting development with defense and therefore in establishing optimal patterns of defense allocation in plants.
Characterization of the cutaneous mycobiota in healthy and allergic cats using next generation sequencing
Authors: Meason‐Smith Courtney , Diesel Alison , Patterson Adam P. , Older Caitlin E. , Johnson Timothy J. , Mansell Joanne M. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Rodrigues Hoffmann Aline
Published: August 2016

Background

Next generation sequencing (NGS) studies have demonstrated a diverse skin‐associated microbiota and microbial dysbiosis associated with atopic dermatitis in people and in dogs. The skin of cats has yet to be investigated usingNGStechniques.

Hypothesis/Objectives

We hypothesized that the fungal microbiota of healthy feline skin would be similar to that of dogs, with a predominance of environmental fungi, and that fungal dysbiosis would be present on the skin of allergic cats.

Animals

Eleven healthy cats and nine cats diagnosed with one or more cutaneous hypersensitivity disorders, including flea bite, food‐induced and nonflea nonfood‐induced hypersensitivity.

Methods

Healthy cats were sampled at twelve body sites and allergic cats at six sites.DNAwas isolated and Illumina sequencing was performed targeting the internal transcribed spacer region of fungi. Sequences were processed using the bioinformatics softwareQIIME.

Results

The most abundant fungal sequences from the skin of all cats were classified asCladosporiumandAlternaria. The mucosal sites, including nostril, conjunctiva and reproductive tracts, had the fewest number of fungi, whereas the pre‐aural space had the most. Allergic feline skin had significantly greater amounts of Agaricomycetes and Sordariomycetes, and significantly lessEpicoccumcompared to healthy feline skin.

Conclusions

The skin of healthy cats appears to have a more diverse fungal microbiota compared to previous studies, and a fungal dysbiosis is noted in the skin of allergic cats. Future studies assessing the temporal stability of the skin microbiota in cats will be useful in determining whether the microbiota sequenced usingNGSare colonizers or transient microbes.
Random texturing process for multicrystalline silicon solar cells using plasmaless dry etching
Authors: Abe Tomoka , Miyasaka Yoshinori , Watanabe Ryosuke , Saito Yoji
Published: August 2016

The authors have investigated a process for randomly texturing single- and multicrystalline Si solar cells by plasmaless dry etching with a chlorine trifluoride gas. Although the reflectance of as-textured surfaces was easily reduced to below 10% at a wavelength of 600 nm in our previous study, the increase of the efficiency of the randomly textured solar cells was insufficient. This insufficient improvement was considered to be due to submicron structures formed by the dry texturing. In this study, the authors aimed to enlarge the textured structures and improve the electrical characteristics of single- and multicrystalline solar cells by modifying the texturing conditions. Surfaces with reflectance below 12% at 600 nm (corresponding to an estimated weighted reflection of 12%–13% at wavelengths between 300 and 1200 nm) were obtained, and electrical characteristics of multicrystalline solar cells were improved by using plasmaless dry texturing at a relatively high etch rate for around 1 min.