bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tau oligomers mediate aggregation of RNA‐binding proteins Musashi1 and Musashi2 inducing Lamin alteration
Authors: Montalbano Mauro , McAllen Salome , Sengupta Urmi , Puangmalai Nicha , Bhatt Nemil , Ellsworth Anna , Kayed Rakez
Published: September 2019

The exact mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other tauopathies are not yet entirely understood. However, it is known that several RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) form toxic aggregates and also interact with tau in such granules in tauopathies, including AD. The Musashi (MSI) family of RBPs, consisting of two homologues: Musashi1 and Musashi2, have not been extensively investigated in neurodegenerative diseases. Here, using a tau inducible HEK (iHEK) model we investigate whether MSI proteins contribute to the aggregation of toxic tau oligomers (TauO). Wild‐type and mutant P301L tau iHEK cells are used to study the effect of different tau variants on the cellular localization of MSI proteins. Interestingly, we observe that tau co‐localizes with MSI in the cytoplasm and nuclei, altering the nuclear transport of MSI. Furthermore, incremental changes in the size and density of nuclear MSI/tau foci are observed. We also report here that TauO interact with MSI to cause the formation of distinct nuclear aggregates. Moreover, tau/MSI aggregates induce structural changes to LaminB1, leading to nuclear instability. These results illustrate a possible mechanism of neurodegeneration mediated by the aggregation of MSI proteins and TauO, suggesting that MSI plays a critical role in cellular dysfunction.
Addressing elder abuse through integrating law into health: What do allied health professionals at a Community Health Service in Melbourne, Australia, think?
Authors: Lewis Virginia J. , White Vanessa , Hawthorne Faith , Eastwood Jess , Mullins Robyn
Published: September 2019

This research looked at the attitudes of Community Health Service (CHS) staff regarding the integration of a lawyer into their CHS both before and after the integration occurred. It assessed their confidence in identifying and addressing elder abuse at each point. A written survey was distributed to staff before the lawyer commenced (n = 126), and approximately 12 months afterwards (n = 54). The preliminary survey demonstrated widespread agreement that legal issues can affect older people and supported having a lawyer in a CHS. Respondents were not confident about their capacity to identify abuse and provide referrals to a lawyer, but this improved in the follow‐up survey. These CHS staff were aware of the potential impacts of elder abuse and supported embedding a lawyer in the health service. Information and training as part of this service model should focus on the skills needed for CHS staff to play their role in such a partnership.
Reproduction, predation, sexual dimorphism and diet in Agama anchietae (Reptilia: Agamidae) from Namibia
Authors: Buiswalelo Bertha , Eiseb Seth , Goedhals Jacqueline , Verdú‐Ricoy Joaquín , Heideman Neil
Published: September 2019

Agama anchietae is one of eight species of agama found in Namibia, its distribution range in the upper half of the country covers desert, Karoo and savannah type biomes and overlaps with that of some of its congeners. Here, we describe its sexual dimorphism, reproductive traits, predation, diet and nematode infection, and compare and contrast each aspect among the three biomes as well as to published findings for three other Namibian congenerics, Agama etoshae, Agama aculeata aculeata and Agama planiceps planiceps. Interesting similarities and differences were found among the biomes as well as with the three congenerics. Our hypothesis that the aspects studied in A. anchietae would be more in line with those of A. a. aculeata and A. etoshae, with which it shares similarities in body colouration, social organisation and microhabitat utilisation, was only partially confirmed. This cautions against using morphological and ecological similarities between agamas as proxies for making life‐history strategy inferences.
A prospective cohort study characterising patients declined emergency laparotomy: survival in the ‘NoLap’ population
Authors: McIlveen E. C. , Wright E. , Shaw `M. , Edwards J. , Vella M. , Quasim T. , Moug S. J.
Published: September 2019

Patients eligible for emergency laparotomy who do not proceed to surgery are not as well characterised as patients who do proceed to surgery. We studied patients eligible for laparotomy, as defined by National Emergency Laparotomy Audit criteria, from August 2015 to October 2016. We analysed the association of individual variables with survival and two composite scores: P‐POSSUM and a general survival model. Out of 314 patients, 214 (68%) underwent laparotomy and 100 (32%) did not. Median (IQR [range]) follow‐up was 1.3 (0.1–1.8 [0.0–2.5]) years for the cohort, 1.5 (1.1–2.0 [0.0–2.6]) years after laparotomy and 0.0 (0.0–1.1 [0.0–2.2]) years without laparotomy. There were 126/314 (40%) deaths in the follow‐up period, 52/214 (24%) deaths after laparotomy and 74/100 (74%) deaths without surgery. Ninety out of 126 deaths (71%) were within one month of hospital admission. Patient variables were different for the two groups, which when combined in the general survival model generated background median (IQR [range]) life expectancies of 12 (6–21 [0–49]) and 4 (2–6 [0–36]) years, respectively, p < 0.0001. ‘Poor fitness’ precluded laparotomy in 74/100 (74%) patients. The decision to not operate involved a consultant less often than the decision to operate: 66/100 (66%) vs. 178/214 (83%), p = 0.001. Our study supports the contention that survival beyond 30 postoperative days could be predicted reasonably accurately. Survival in patients who did not have laparotomy was shorter than expected. Emergency laparotomy might have prolonged survival in some patients.
Norwegian children and adolescents in blended families are at risk of larger one‐year BMI increments
Authors: Kristiansen Hege , Roelants Mathieu , Bjerknes Robert , Juliusson Petur B.
Published: September 2019

Aim

To study how sociodemographic factors and family structure associate with baseline BMI z‐scores (BMIz) and BMIz change in 767 Norwegian children aged 6‐15 years.

Methods

Baseline BMIz and 1‐year BMIz increments in children from the Bergen Growth Study were analysed with linear and logistic regression, according to sociodemographic factors and family structure. A blended family was defined as including a step‐parent and/or half‐sibling.

Results

In a fully adjusted regression model, baseline BMIz were only significantly associated with maternal BMI (b = 0.087, 95%CI 0.067, 0.107). Body Mass Index z‐scores increments were larger in children living in a blended family (b = 0.060, 95%CI 0.006, 0.115), with a lower parental education (b = 0.127, 95%CI 0.029, 0.226) and with a higher maternal BMI (b = 0.008, 95%CI 0.001, 0.014). The odds for a large BMIz increment (>1 SD) were higher in children living in blended families (OR 1.82, 95%CI 1.16, 2.88) and with higher maternal BMI (OR 1.07, 95%CI 1.01, 1.13) and lower in 9‐11‐year‐old children (OR 0.44, 95%CI 0.26, 0.77) compared with 12‐15‐year‐olds.

Conclusion

Body Mass Index z‐scores increments were more strongly associated with sociodemographic factors and living in a blended family than baseline BMIz values. BMI z‐scores increments could be useful for identifying children at risk of becoming overweight or obese.
Letter: increased risk of developing Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in 17 018 patients while under treatment with anti‐TNFα agents, particularly etanercept, for autoimmune diseases other than IBD
Authors: Dai Cong , Jiang Min , Sun Ming‐Jun
Published: September 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Korzenik paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15370.
Letter: metformin treatment and hepatocellular carcinoma risk in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Dogru Teoman , Kırık Ali , Sonmez Alper
Published: September 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Vilar‐Gomez et al and Vilar‐Gomez and Chalasani papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15331 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15488.
Letter: metformin reduces the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in diabetic patients
Authors: Huo Rong‐Rui , Liang Jing‐Rong , He Feng‐Yi , Xu Bin‐Rong , Ma Liang , Yuan Wei‐Ping
Published: September 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Vilar‐Gomez et al and Vilar‐Gomez and Chalasani papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15331 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15486.
Editorial: liver test abnormalities in oncology patients in the age of the checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Rich Nicole E. , Lee William M.
Published: September 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Tsung et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15413.
Editorial: the reduction of faecal calprotectin during exclusive enteral nutrition is lost rapidly after food reintroduction
Authors: Wall Catherine L. , Day Andrew S.
Published: September 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Logan et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15425.
On beginning with justice: Bioethics, advocacy and the rights of asylum seekers
Authors: Zion Deborah
Published: September 2019

The situation around the seeking of refuge, both in Australia and abroad, has become a core human rights issue of our time, engendering protest and activism from the public, researchers, healthcare professionals and academics. The question remains: do bioethicists have duties to advocate on behalf of such populations, and if so, why? I argue that if our work is founded upon the principle of justice, then we do have such duties, and that our research, in itself, can become a form of advocacy.
The prognostic value and pathophysiologic significance of three‐dimensional fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (3D‐FLAIR) magnetic resonance imaging in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lammers Marc J. W. , Young Emily , Fenton David , Lea Jane , Westerberg Brian D.
Published: September 2019

Background

The underlying pathophysiology of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is still unknown. However, an increasing number of observational studies report intralabyrinthine signal alterations in patients with ISSNHL using three‐dimensional fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (3D‐FLAIR) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These findings warrant a meta‐analysis.

Objective of review

To conduct a meta‐analysis assessing the value of 3D‐FLAIR MRI in identifying possible underlying labyrinthine pathophysiologic mechanisms and prognostication in patients with ISSNHL.

Search strategy

Two reviewers independently searched the Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Library from inception until October 10, 2018 and evaluated eligibility based on titles and abstracts of all retrieved studies. All studies reporting on 3D‐FLAIR imaging in ISSNHL were included. Subsequently, the full text of eligible studies were evaluated.

Evaluation method

Adhering to the MOOSE guideline, two independent reviewers extracted data, assessed risk of bias and evaluated the relevance and quality of evidence. Data on the number of patients and events were extracted and hearing levels were converted to standardised mean differences (SMD) for conducting meta‐analyses. Random effects models for meta‐analyses were applied.

Results

Eight observational studies met our inclusion criteria (n = 638 patients). In 29%, high signal intensity was found on 3D‐FLAIR imaging, suggesting labyrinthine pathology (labyrinthitis [79%], intralabyrinthine haemorrhage [21%]). High signal intensity on 3D‐FLAIR was associated with poorer hearing (SMD: 14 dB, 95% CI 5.67‐22.94) and vertigo (RR: 1.92, 95% CI 1.16‐3.17) at baseline. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that patients with high 3D‐FLAIR signal intensity had 21 dB lower final hearing pure‐tone averages (SMD: 21 dB, 95% CI 9.08‐33.24).

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery MR imaging can identify an underlying labyrinthine condition in up to 29% of patients with sudden hearing loss in whom previously no cause could be identified. Their final pure‐tone averages are more than 20 dB worse than 3D‐FLAIR–negative patients, suggesting more severe labyrinthine damage. Findings such as these may contribute to our understanding of pathophysiologic mechanisms of ISSNHL.
Effects of rarity form on species’ responses to land use
Authors: Sykes Louise , Santini Luca , Etard Adrienne , Newbold Tim
Published: September 2019

Anthropogenic land‐use change causes substantial changes in local and global biodiversity. Rare and common species can differ in sensitivity to land‐use change; rare species are expected to be affected more negatively. Rarity may be defined in terms of geographic range size, population density, or breadth of habitat requirements. How these 3 forms of rarity interact in determining global responses to land use is yet to be assessed. Using global data representing 912 vertebrate species, we tested for differences in responses to land use of species characterized by different types of rarity. Land‐use responses were fitted using generalized linear mixed‐effects models, allowing responses to vary among groups of species with different forms of rarity. Species considered rare with respect to all 3 forms of rarity showed particularly strong declines in disturbed land uses (>40% of species and 30% of individuals in the most disturbed land uses). In contrast, species common both geographically and numerically and with broad habitat requirements showed strong increases (up to 90% increase in species and 40% in abundance in some land uses). Our results suggest that efforts to understand the vulnerability of species to environmental changes should account for different types of rarity where possible. Our results also have potentially important implications for ecosystem functioning, given that rare species may play unique roles within ecosystems.
Primary stabbing headache: the need for a definition for children and adolescents
Authors: Abu‐Arafeh Ishaq
Published: September 2019

This commentary is on the original article by Ahmed et al. on pages 69‐74 of this issue.
After King: Responsibility for Queer and Trans Expressions
Authors: Greteman Adam J.
Published: September 2019

In this article, Adam Greteman considers the murder of Lawrence/Latisha King by Brandon McInerney in February 2008. Greteman turns to this case, a decade after it occurred, because it raises a number of issues regarding our evolving understandings of genders, sexualities, and the risks of encountering such differences in the space of school in the twenty‐first century. Greteman argues that we live in a moment where queer and trans youth are coming out and becoming queer and trans earlier and, in various ways, expanding our understanding of genders and sexualities, and also illustrating the complex responsibilities that schools — in the form of teachers, administrators, and students — have toward these forms of becoming. He explores the limits of a liability model of responsibility and the need for contemplating responsibility more broadly as it encounters systemic forms of injustice (for example, transphobia, homophobia, and white supremacy) in the classroom. If queer and trans youth have more access to resources, protections, and representations in the late 2010s, how do those in schools — students, teachers, staff, and administrators — engage the tensions that can arise between queer and trans expressions and expressions opposed to queerness and transness? And how do schools continue to take up their collective responsibilities for the lives of students who are becoming in the midst of systemic injustice?
Genotypic diversity and distribution of Sphaeropsis sapinea within Pinus radiata trees from northern Spain
Authors: Manzanos Tania , Aragonés Ana , Iturritxa Eugenia
Published: September 2019

Sphaeropsis sapinea is an important latent pathogen of Pinus spp., outbreaks of which have a considerable impact on plantations. This study considers the population diversity and distribution of S. sapinea in northern Spain at different spatial scales from single plantations to a wide area covered by Pinus radiata trees. Estimation of genotypic diversity is an important component of the analysis of the genetic structure of plant pathogen populations. Ten simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used, together with vegetative compatibility tests, to study the genetic diversity among S. sapinea isolates. Polymorphism analysis at SSR loci is a simple and direct approach for estimating the genetic diversity of S. sapinea isolates. From a total of 86 isolates collected from four different areas, 14 microsatellite haplotypes and 13 vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs) were identified. The percentage of maximum genotypic diversity, based on Stoddart and Taylor's index, for microsatellites of the northern Spain population ranged from 14.6% to 38.1% and from 8.0% to 29.4% for VCGs. Analysis of these markers and vegetative compatibility groups confirmed that S. sapinea reproduces mainly asexually due to its reduced genotypic diversity in spatially close populations. Isolates of S. sapinea from northern Spain populations were predominantly monomorphic at the tested SSR loci. Vegetative compatibility groups also indicate a low level of genetic variability in these samples, which appear to be clonal.
Rapid establishment of teat order and allonursing in wild boar (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Arnold Leonie C. , Habe Manuela , Troxler Josef , Nowack Julia , Vetter Sebastian G.
Published: September 2019

Transfer of milk is the fundamental common characteristic of mammalian reproduction, but species differ considerably with respect to nursing strategies. The consequences of teat orders and allonursing have been studied intensively in domestic pigs. However, whether similar nursing strategies also exist in wild boar, the ancestor of domestic pigs is so far not known. The occurrence of allonursing in wild boar is only described anecdotally, and the question whether a teat order is established has not yet been investigated. Studying suckling behaviour of 29 piglets from six primiparous wild boar females in a semi‐natural environment we found a surprisingly fast development of a rigid teat order among littermates, which established within 2.2 hr after birth. This suggests strong fitness benefits of this phenomenon that may ultimately explain the evolution and maintenance of this trait. We further found a strong synchrony of oestrus and delivery among the females of a group, as well as the occurrence of allonursing. By determining the amount of allonursing for the first time quantitatively, we demonstrate the importance of this trait and its presumably pivotal role for juvenile survival under truly natural conditions.
Exploring the potential of Google Earth as a communication and engagement tool in collaborative Natural Flood Management planning
Authors: Smith Katherine , Berry Robert , Clarke Lucy E.
Published: September 2019

This paper considers the development and evaluation of a Google Earth “virtual globe” tour for communicating spatial data and engaging stakeholders in the early stages of a natural flood management (NFM) planning scenario, using a rural UK river catchment that suffered significant flooding in 2007. With a range of diverse stakeholder interests to consider, early engagement and the development of trust before decision‐making are essential for the long‐term success of such catchment‐wide projects. A local catchment group was consulted to identify key information requirements, and from this a “virtual globe” tour was created. The process involved specialist skills and expert leadership, but the end result was accessible to a range of audiences. User evaluation indicated that it was easy to navigate and can be used to stimulate interest and engage stakeholders. Participants trusted the content and valued the interactivity of the tour. It was helpful for communicating and educating participants about the catchment, the issues it faces, and the potential to incorporate NFM, particularly for those with little or no prior knowledge. More abstract information was harder to convey and there were limitations in the availability of suitable data for some variables and the in quality of satellite imagery. This exploratory research found that a Google Earth “virtual globe” tour can be a valuable tool in the initial stages of an NFM project, but there are also opportunities to use this technique in the more advanced stages of the planning process. The approach could be used as part of a wider toolkit for communication and engagement and has potential as a decision support tool in other environmental management scenarios with requirements for public participation, enabling the views of a range of participants to be captured through online distribution and to generate discussion in workshop settings.
Association between fatigue and depressive symptoms among kidney transplantation recipients: The mediating role of rumination
Authors: Zhang Rongmei , Jia Jihui , Zhang Dan , Zhao Xia
Published: September 2019

Aims

Depressive symptoms are common among kidney transplantation recipients. Previous studies have reported that fatigue and rumination are risk factors for depressive symptoms. To date, the underlying mechanisms of fatigue, rumination, and depressive symptoms among kidney transplantation recipients remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms and investigate whether rumination mediates the association between fatigue and depressive symptoms among kidney transplantation recipients.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The study of 207 kidney transplantation recipients with an average age of 44.5 years was conducted from January 2017–July 2017. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, fatigue, rumination, and depressive symptoms data were collected. For the descriptive analysis, Pearson correlations and mediation analysis based on the PROCESS macro were used.

Results

The prevalence of depressive symptoms among kidney transplantation recipients was 21.7%. Rumination mediated the association between fatigue and depressive symptoms and the indirect effect was 0.19 (95% confidence interval: 0.10–0.28).

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms were highly prevalent among kidney transplantation recipients. Rumination exerts a mediating role between fatigue and depressive symptoms.

Impact

This study alerts physicians and nurses for the importance of considering the mental health of these patients and contributes to the development of effective depression management interventions.
Dexamethasone treatment supports age‐related maturation of the stress response in altricial nestling birds
Authors: Torres‐Medina Fernando , Cabezas Sonia , Marchant Tracy A. , Blas Julio
Published: September 2019

In birds, the magnitude of the adrenocortical stress response can be down‐regulated during specific life‐history stages. Such modulation likely occurs when the effects of mounting robust corticosterone (Cort) elevations interfere with the normal progression of critical lifecycle activities (e.g. development, molt, migration, reproduction). The developmental hypothesis posits that altricial birds should display a ‘stress hyporesponsive period’ during the early post‐natal life stages, characterized by reduced adrenocortical stress responses compared to adult birds and a gradual age‐related increase. Such modulation would allow avoiding the potential deleterious effects that long‐term elevations of circulating Cort might exert on growth and development, when the physiological and behavioral abilities to cope with disturbance are limited. Two proximate hypotheses have been proposed to explain this age‐dependent pattern of Cort secretion. The ‘maturation hypothesis’ proposes a progressive age‐related growth, maturation and enhanced sensitivity to sensory input of the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal (HPA) axis tissues, whereas the ‘negative feedback attenuation hypothesis’ proposes a gradual attenuation in the intensity of the negative feedback in the HPA axis. Here we tested these hypotheses by experimentally inducing negative feedback on the HPA axis via dexamethasone (DEX) treatment in nestling white storks Ciconia ciconia. Nestling age positively affected stress‐induced plasma Cort (STRESS‐Cort) levels during experimental handling and restraint, thus supporting the developmental hypothesis. DEX treatment significantly reduced STRESS‐Cort levels compared to saline (SAL) treatment, thus eliciting the expected negative feedback on the HPA axis. However, inter‐ and intra‐individual comparisons indicated no age effects on the intensity of the negative feedback exerted by DEX. Our results do not support the negative feedback attenuation hypothesis and suggest that progressive maturation of the HPA axis tissues is the proximate mechanism responsible for age‐related changes in the stress response during avian post‐natal development. We encourage further tests of the proposed proximate mechanisms during migration, breeding and molt.
Immature gannets follow adults in commuting flocks providing a potential mechanism for social learning
Authors: Wakefield Ewan D. , Furness Robert W. , Lane Jude V. , Jeglinski Jana W. E. , Pinder Simon J.
Published: September 2019

Group travel is a familiar phenomenon among birds but the causes of this mode of movement are often unclear. For example, flocking flight may reduce flight costs, enhance predator avoidance or increase foraging efficiency. In addition, naive individuals may also follow older, more experienced conspecifics as a learning strategy. However, younger birds may be slower than adults so biomechanical and social effects on flock structure may be difficult to separate. Gannets are wide‐ranging (100s–1000s km) colonial seabirds that often travel in V or echelon‐shaped flocks. Tracking suggests that breeding gannets use memory to return repeatedly to prey patches 10s–100s km wide but it is unclear how these are initially discovered. Public information gained at the colony or by following conspecifics has been hypothesised to play a role, especially during early life. Here, we address two hypotheses: 1) flocking reduces flight costs and 2) young gannets follow older ones in order to locate prey. To do so, we recorded flocks of northern gannets commuting to and from a large colony and passing locations offshore and used a biomechanical model to test for age differences in flight speeds. Consistent with the aerodynamic hypothesis, returning flocks were significantly larger than departing flocks, while, consistent with the information gathering hypothesis, immatures travelled in flocks more frequently than adults and these flocks were more likely to be led by adults than expected by chance. Immatures did not systematically occupy the last position in flocks and had similar theoretical airspeeds to adults, making it unlikely that they follow, rather than lead, for biomechanical reasons. We therefore conclude that while gannets are likely to travel in flocks in part to reduce flight costs, the positions of immatures in those flocks may result in a flow of information from adults to immatures, potentially leading to social learning.
Availability of Evidence‐Based Community Falls Prevention Programs: Considerations
Authors: Tripken Jennifer L. , Cameron Kathleen A. , Eagen Thomas J.
Published: September 2019

See the Reply by Levan Atanelov
Dealing with cognitive dissonance: an approach
Authors: Braun Leah T , Schmidmaier Ralf
Published: September 2019

Braun and Schmidmaier reflect on how one might best grapple wth the errors that Klein and McColl argue cognitive dissonance can create.
Identification of IscU residues critical for de novo iron–sulfur cluster assembly
Authors: Tanaka Naoyuki , Yuda Eiki , Fujishiro Takashi , Hirabayashi Kei , Wada Kei , Takahashi Yasuhiro
Published: September 2019

IscU is a central component of the ISC machinery and serves as a scaffold for the de novo assembly of iron–sulfur (Fe–S) clusters prior to their delivery to target apo‐Fe–S proteins. However, the molecular mechanism is not yet fully understood. In this study, we have conducted mutational analysis of E. coli IscU using the recently developed genetic complementation system of a mutant that can survive without Fe–S clusters. The Fe–S cluster ligands (C37, C63, H105, C106) and the proximal D39 and K103 residues are essential for in vivo function of IscU and could not be substituted with any other amino acids. Furthermore, we found that substitution of Y3, a strictly conserved residue among IscU homologs, abolished in vivo functions. Surprisingly, a second‐site suppressor mutation in IscS (A349V) reverted the defect caused by IscU Y3 substitutions. Biochemical analysis revealed that IscU Y3 was crucial for functional interaction with IscS and sulfur transfer between the two proteins. Our findings suggest that the critical role of IscU Y3 is linked to the conformational dynamics of the flexible loop of IscS, which is required for the ingenious sulfur transfer to IscU.
Genetic polymorphism in Chondrilla (Asteraceae) in southern European Russia and the nature of Chondrilla juncea L
Authors: Kashin Alexander S. , Kritskaya Tatyana A. , Parkhomenko Alena S. , Schanzer Ivan A.
Published: September 2019

We studied genetic diversity in 54 populations of nine sexual and apomictic species of the genus Chondrilla (C. acantholepis, C. ambigua, C. brevirostris, C. canescens, C. graminea, C. juncea, C. laticoronata, C. latifolia and C. pauciflora) in SE European Russia and neighboring territories of NW Kazakhstan. We analysed the trnT–trnF region of plastid DNA and the internal transcribed spacer of ribosomal DNA (ITS1–5.8S–ITS2) using statistical parsimony, maximum likelihood and neighbor net methods. Two major evolutionary lineages, roughly corresponding to the two subgenera traditionally recognized in the region, were revealed. Within the first evolutionary lineage (subgenus Brachyrhynchus), the sexual diploid C. ambigua and its putatively hybrid apomictic derivatives C. brevirostris, C. laticoronata and C. pauciflora could be recognized. Their identity was also confirmed by analyses of ISSR markers. The second evolutionary lineage (subgenus Chondrilla) comprises C. juncea, C. acantholepis, C. canescens, C. graminea and C. latifolia in European Russia, but analyses of morphological variability and the genealogy of plastid and nuclear markers favor their treatment as the single facultatively apomictic species C. juncea. The results demonstrate that an apomictic mode of reproduction does not necessarily result in the formation of genetically separated microspecies.
Orchidantha crassinervia sp. nov. (Lowiaceae) from Guangxi, China
Authors: Zou Pu , Cai Xi‐An , Xu Kai , Cui Chang‐Jie , Ye Yu‐Shi , Liao Jing‐Ping
Published: September 2019

Here we describe and illustrate a new species, Orchidantha crassinervia sp. nov. (Lowiaceae), from Guangxi Province, China. The species is closely related to O. yunnanensis and O. virosa, but can be distinguished from these species in possessing a very thick midrib of the labellum, fewer flowers per inflorescence and by a shorter plant height. The species is known only from the three populations within 3 km.
Chaotic peak propagation in patients with Jackhammer esophagus
Authors: Xiao Yinglian , Carlson Dustin A. , Lin Zhiyue , Pandolfino John E.
Published: September 2019

Background

The contractile activity of Jackhammer esophagus(JE) is heterogeneous and abnormalities in the balance of pre‐ and post‐peak contractile activity has been reported. We observed that the progression of the peak contraction is disordered in JE patients, which reflect underlying abnormalities in the inhibitory and excitatory influence in esophageal contraction. In order to better define this abnormality, we developed novel time metrics to define trajectory of the pressure wave peak and assessed it in healthy controls and JE patients.

Methods

38 patients with JE (ages 43‐70, 19 females) and 71 asymptomatic controls (ages 19‐48; 33 females) were retrospectively evaluated. High resolution manometry was performed in all subjects with 10 supine liquid swallows. The first 5 intact supine swallows and supine swallow with the greatest DCI were analyzed using ManoView™ software and customized MATLAB program. The time distance, negative time distance sum and chaotic ratio were calculated. JE patients were subcategorized by the Brief Esophageal Dysphagia Questionnaire (BEDQ) with cut‐off of 6.

Key results

Jackhammer patients had longer time distance, longer negative time distance, and higher chaotic ratio than controls( p < 0.001). The distribution of the number of negative time distances differed between JE patients with BEDQ>6 and BEDQ≤6.

Conclusions & Inferences

The trajectory of the pressure wave peak propagation commonly occurred in an unordered fashion in JE, but rarely in controls. Additionally, differences in pressure propagation trajectory was associated with higher symptom scores thus trajectory of the pressure wave peak may be an important marker of abnormal esophageal motor function.
Characterizing the involvement of FaMADS9 in the regulation of strawberry fruit receptacle development
Authors: Vallarino José G. , Merchante Catharina , Sánchez‐Sevilla José F. , de Luis Balaguer María Angels , Pott Delphine M. , Ariza María T. , Casañal Ana , Posé David , Vioque Amalia , Amaya Iraida , Willmitzer Lothar , Solano Roberto , Sozzani Rosangela , Fernie Alisdair R. , Botella Miguel A. , Giovannoni James J. , Valpuesta Victoriano , Osorio Sonia
Published: September 2019

FaMADS9 is the strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) gene that exhibits the highest homology to the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) RIN gene. Transgenic lines were obtained in which FaMADS9 was silenced. The fruits of these lines did not show differences in basic parameters, such as fruit firmness or colour, but exhibited lower Brix values in three of the four independent lines. The gene ontology MapMan category that was most enriched among the differentially expressed genes in the receptacles at the white stage corresponded to the regulation of transcription, including a high percentage of transcription factors and regulatory proteins associated with auxin action. In contrast, the most enriched categories at the red stage were transport, lipid metabolism and cell wall. Metabolomic analysis of the receptacles of the transformed fruits identified significant changes in the content of maltose, galactonic acid‐1,4‐lactone, proanthocyanidins and flavonols at the green/white stage, while isomaltose, anthocyanins and cuticular wax metabolism were the most affected at the red stage. Among the regulatory genes that were differentially expressed in the transgenic receptacles were several genes previously linked to flavonoid metabolism, such as MYB10, DIV, ZFN1, ZFN2, GT2, and GT5, or associated with the action of hormones, such as abscisic acid, SHP, ASR, GTE7 and SnRK2.7. The inference of a gene regulatory network, based on a dynamic Bayesian approach, among the genes differentially expressed in the transgenic receptacles at the white and red stages, identified the genes KAN1, DIV, ZFN2 and GTE7 as putative targets of FaMADS9. A MADS9‐specific CArG box was identified in the promoters of these genes.
Do epistemic reasons bear on the ought simpliciter?
Authors: Mantel Susanne
Published: September 2019

Are epistemic reasons normative in the same sense as, for instance, moral reasons? In this paper I examine and defend the claim that epistemic reasons are normative only relative to an epistemic standard. Unlike moral reasons they are not substantially normative, because they fail to make an independent contribution to obligations or permissions simpliciter. After presenting what I take to be the main argument for this view, I illustrate that the argument has often been defended by examples which controversially presuppose strong epistemic obligations or pragmatic reasons for belief. Opponents of the argument often deny the existence of obligations and reasons of these kinds. I therefore examine whether the argument can withstand that line of critique by employing new examples.
State Dependence in Welfare Benefits in a Non‐Welfare Context
Authors: Ayhan Sinem H. , Pelek Selin
Published: September 2019

This study investigates state dependence in social assistance benefits in Turkey, where benefit receipt and persistence rates have significantly increased over the past decade. We estimate state dependence through dynamic random‐effects probit models, controlling for observed and unobserved heterogeneity, and endogenous initial conditions. In particular, we employ Wooldridge’s estimator to achieve consistent and correct estimates of state dependence and compare the results with estimates from Heckman’s reduced‐form approach as a sensitivity check. Both estimators enable us to disentangle true state dependence from its spurious components and address the potential bias due to the short panel length. Our results suggest that the receipt of benefits in the last year increases the likelihood of benefit receipt in the current year, namely the structural state dependence, by 17.2–19.5 percentage points.
Selecting Biomarkers for Building Optimal Treatment Selection Rules by Using Kernel Machines
Authors: Dasgupta Sayan , Huang Ying
Published: September 2019

Optimal biomarker combinations for treatment selection can be derived by minimizing the total burden to the population caused by the targeted disease and its treatment. However, when multiple biomarkers are present, including all in the model can be expensive and can hurt model performance. To remedy this, we consider feature selection in optimization by minimizing an extended total burden that additionally incorporates biomarker costs. Formulating it as a 0-norm penalized weighted classification, we develop various procedures for estimating linear and non-linear combinations. Through simulations and a real data example, we demonstrate the importance of incorporating feature selection and marker cost when deriving treatment selection rules.
Necrostatin‐1 supplementation enhances young porcine islet maturation and in vitro function
Authors: Lau Hien , Corrales Nicole , Alexander Michael , Mohammadi Mohammad Rezaa , Li Shiri , Smink Alexandra M. , de Vos Paul , Lakey Jonathan R. T.
Published: September 2019

Background

Necroptosis has been demonstrated to be a primary mechanism of islet cell death. This study evaluated whether the supplementation of necrostatin‐1 (Nec‐1), a potent inhibitor of necroptosis, to islet culture media could improve the recovery, maturation, and function of pre‐weaned porcine islets (PPIs).

Methods

PPIs were isolated from pre‐weaned Yorkshire piglets (8‐15 days old) and either cultured in control islet culture media (n = 6) or supplemented with Nec‐1 (100 µM, n = 5). On days 3 and 7 of culture, islets were assessed for recovery, insulin content, viability, cellular composition, GLUT2 expression in beta cells, differentiation of pancreatic endocrine progenitor cells, function, and oxygen consumption rate.

Results

Nec‐1 supplementation induced a 2‐fold increase in the insulin content of PPIs on day 7 of culture. When compared to untreated islets, Nec‐1 treatment doubled the beta‐ and alpha‐cell composition and accelerated the development of delta cells. Additionally, beta cells of Nec‐1‐treated islets had a significant upregulation in GLUT2 expression. The enhanced development of major endocrine cells and GLUT2 expression after Nec‐1 treatment subsequently led to a significant increase in the amount of insulin secreted in response to in vitro glucose challenge. Islet recovery, viability, and oxygen consumption rate were unaffected by Nec‐1.

Conclusion

This study underlines the importance of necroptosis in islet cell death after isolation and demonstrates the novel effects of Nec‐1 to increase islet insulin content, enhance pancreatic endocrine cell development, facilitate GLUT2 upregulation in beta cells, and augment insulin secretion. Nec‐1 supplementation to culture media significantly improves islet quality prior to xenotransplantation.
Cycloidal paths in physics as superpositions of translational and rotational motions
Authors: Johnston David C.
Published: September 2019

Cycloidal paths are ubiquitous in physics. Here, we show that representative cycloidal paths in physics can be described as superpositions of translations and rotations of a point through space. Using this unifying principle, the parametric equations of the path of a point on a rolling disk are derived for rolling without slipping, rolling with frictionless slipping, and when kinetic solid-on-solid friction is present during rolling with slipping. In a similar way, the parametric equations versus time for the orbit with respect to a star of a moon in a circular orbit about a planet that is in a circular orbit about a star are derived, where the orbits are coplanar. The parametric equations versus time for the path of the magnetization vector during undamped electron-spin resonance are found using the same principle, which show that cycloidal paths can occur under specified conditions.
The forced harmonic oscillator: Coherent states and the RWA
Authors: Castaños L. O. , Zuñiga-Segundo A.
Published: September 2019

We consider a forced harmonic oscillator in one-dimension. Using coherent states, we show that the treatment of the system is simplified, that the relationship between the classical and quantum solutions becomes transparent, and that the evolution operator of the system can be calculated easily as the free evolution operator of the harmonic oscillator followed by a displacement operator that depends on the classical solution. In addition, we consider the system in the rotating-wave-approximation (RWA), an application of the Averaging Theorem. We determine the relationship between the exact solution and the one in the RWA, test the accuracy of the RWA, and explain why the RWA gives accurate results in the realm of cavity quantum electrodynamics. Finally, we apply the results to a charged particle interacting with an electromagnetic field.
PD-L2 in follicular lymphoma: Sidekick or star?
Authors: Jeyasekharan Anand D.
Published: September 2019

Immune profiling of follicular lymphoma reveals a role for PD-L2 expression in predicting early progression and survival.
GC-072, a Novel Therapeutic Candidate for Oral Treatment of Melioidosis and Infections Caused by Select Biothreat Pathogens
Authors: Shearer Jeffry D. , Saylor Michelle L. , Butler Christine M. , Treston Anthony M. , Heine Henry S. , Chirakul Sunisa , Schweizer Herbert P. , Louie Arnold , Drusano George L. , Zumbrun Steven D. , Warfield Kelly L.
Published: September 2019

Burkholderia pseudomallei, the etiological agent of melioidosis, is a Gram-negative bacterium with additional concern as a biothreat pathogen. The mortality rate fromB. pseudomalleivaries depending on the type of infection and extent of available health care; in the case of septicemia, left untreated, it can range from 50% to 90%. Current therapy for melioidosis is biphasic, consisting of parenteral acute-phase treatment for 2 weeks or longer, followed by oral eradication-phase treatment lasting several months.
High
In Vitro
Susceptibility to the First-in-Class Spiropyrimidinetrione Zoliflodacin among Consecutive Clinical Neisseria gonorrhoeae Isolates from Thailand and South Africa
Authors: Jacobsson Susanne , Kularatne Ranmini , Kittiyaowamarn Rossaphorn , Maseko Venessa , Paopang Porntip , Sangprasert Pongsathorn , Sirivongrangson Pachara , Piddock Laura , Wi Teodora , Alirol Emilie , Unemo Magnus
Published: September 2019

We evaluated the
in vitro
susceptibility to the first-in-class spiropyrimidinetrione zoliflodacin among recent consecutive clinical
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
isolates cultured in Thailand (
n
 = 99) (in 2018) and South Africa (
n
 = 100) (in 2015 to 2017).
Complete Genome Sequences of Mycobacterium smegmatis Phages NihilNomen and Carlyle, Isolated in Las Vegas, Nevada
Authors: Salisbury Alicia , Doss Ryan , Mehta Astha , Bhatti Khadija , Dapra Ciera , Huntsinger Audrey , Rodriguez Stephanie , Yacek Scott , Sandberg Rylee , Gildore Alexis , Knudtson Jacinda , Tibayan Frances , Ohta Tiannah , Zafar Neha , Mercado Guadalupe , Le Alan , Mekhaeel Natalie , Willer Justin , Rodrich-Zuniga Edith , McFarland Merissa , Regner Kurt , Strong Christy , Tsourkas Philippos K.
Published: September 2019

We present the complete genomes of the
Mycobacterium smegmatis
phages Carlyle and NihilNomen, isolated from soil in Las Vegas, Nevada. The phages were isolated and annotated by undergraduate students enrolled in the Phage Discovery course offered by the School of Life Sciences at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.
Identification of the Coding-Complete Genome of
Cycas Necrotic Stunt Virus
in Transcriptomic Data Sets of Alfalfa (
Medicago sativa
)
Authors: Jiang Peng , Shao Jonathan , Nemchinov Lev G.
Published: September 2019

We present evidence here that alfalfa (
Medicago sativa
L.) can be a natural host species for a new strain of
Cycas necrotic stunt virus
(CNSV), for which the name CNSV-
A
(
a
lfalfa) is proposed. Prior to this report, the virus has not been identified in alfalfa.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Pantoea
sp. Strain CCBC3-3-1, an Antagonistic Endophytic Bacterium Isolated from a
Cotinus coggygria
Branch
Authors: Zhou Jianghong , Xia Fei , Che Shaochen , Zhong Li , Zhang Guofeng
Published: September 2019

Pantoea
sp. strain CCBC3-3-1, having antagonistic activity against
Verticillium dahlia
, was isolated from
Cotinus coggygria
. We report the complete genome sequence of this strain determined by PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) technology. The total genome size of CCBC3-3-1 is 5,159,767 bp, with a G+C content of 48.08%.
Pterygium in adults from the Brazilian Amazon Region: prevalence, visual status and refractive errors
Authors: Fernandes Arthur G , Salomão Solange R , Ferraz Nívea N , Mitsuhiro Márcia H , Furtado Joao M , Muñoz Sergio , Cypel Marcela C , Cunha Cristina C , Vasconcelos Galton C , Sacai Paula Y , Morales Paulo H , Cohen Marcos J , Cohen Jacob M , Watanabe Sung S , Campos Mauro , Belfort Junior Rubens , Berezovsky Adriana
Published: September 2019

Aims

To determine prevalence of pterygium, its role as main cause of unilateral and bilateral visual impairment and blindness and its impact on refractive errors from adults living in a high ultraviolet exposure area in the Brazilian Amazon Region.

Methods

Cluster sampling was used in randomly selecting subjects ≥45 years of age from urban and rural areas of Parintins city. Eligible subjects were enumerated through a door-to-door household survey and invited for an eye exam including refraction. Pterygium was assessed considering location (nasal, temporal or both) and size (<3 mm or ≥3 mm reaching or not pupillary margin).

Results

A total of 2384 persons were enumerated and 2041 (85.6%) were examined. Prevalence of pterygium was 58.8% (95% CI 53.8% to 63.7%) and associated with male gender (OR=1.63; 95% CI 1.37 to 1.94; p=0.001), while higher education was a protective factor (OR=0.63; 95% CI 0.44 to 0.92; p=0.018). Older age and rural residence were associated with pterygium ≥3 mm reaching or not pupillary margin, while higher education was a protective factor for pterygium ≥3 mm reaching pupillary margin. Prevalence of pterygium as cause of visual impairment and blindness was 14.3% and 3.9%, respectively. Significantly higher hyperopic refractive errors were found in eyes with pterygium ≥3 mm reaching or not pupillary margin.

Conclusions

Pterygium was highly prevalent and the second cause of visual impairment and blindness after provision of refractive correction. Risk factors for pterygium were male gender, advanced age, lower education and rural residency. Strategies to provide pterygium early detection and proper management should be considered by healthcare authorities in this population.