bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RosBREED: bridging the chasm between discovery and application to enable DNA-informed breeding in rosaceous crops
Authors: Iezzoni Amy F. , McFerson Jim , Luby James , Gasic Ksenija , Whitaker Vance , Bassil Nahla , Yue Chengyan , Gallardo Karina , McCracken Vicki , Coe Michael , Hardner Craig , Zurn Jason D. , Hokanson Stan , van de Weg Eric , Jung Sook , Main Dorrie , da Silva Linge Cassia , Vanderzande Stijn , Davis Thomas M. , Mahoney Lise L. , Finn Chad , Peace Cameron
Published: November 2020

The Rosaceae crop family (including almond, apple, apricot, blackberry, peach, pear, plum, raspberry, rose, strawberry, sweet cherry, and sour cherry) provides vital contributions to human well-being and is economically significant across the U.S. In 2003, industry stakeholder initiatives prioritized the utilization of genomics, genetics, and breeding to develop new cultivars exhibiting both disease resistance and superior horticultural quality. However, rosaceous crop breeders lacked certain knowledge and tools to fully implement DNA-informed breeding—a “chasm” existed between existing genomics and genetic information and the application of this knowledge in breeding. The RosBREED project (“Ros” signifying a Rosaceae genomics, genetics, and breeding community initiative, and “BREED”, indicating the core focus on breeding programs), addressed this challenge through a comprehensive and coordinated 10-year effort funded by the USDA-NIFA Specialty Crop Research Initiative. RosBREED was designed to enable the routine application of modern genomics and genetics technologies in U.S. rosaceous crop breeding programs, thereby enhancing their efficiency and effectiveness in delivering cultivars with producer-required disease resistances and market-essential horticultural quality. This review presents a synopsis of the approach, deliverables, and impacts of RosBREED, highlighting synergistic global collaborations and future needs. Enabling technologies and tools developed are described, including genome-wide scanning platforms and DNA diagnostic tests. Examples of DNA-informed breeding use by project participants are presented for all breeding stages, including pre-breeding for disease resistance, parental and seedling selection, and elite selection advancement. The chasm is now bridged, accelerating rosaceous crop genetic improvement.
The mutation of ent-kaurene synthase, a key enzyme involved in gibberellin biosynthesis, confers a non-heading phenotype to Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Gao Yue , Huang Shengnan , Qu Gaoyang , Fu Wei , Zhang Meidi , Liu Zhiyong , Feng Hui
Published: November 2020

The presence of a leafy head is a vital agronomic trait that facilitates the evaluation of the yield and quality of Chinese cabbage. A non-heading mutant (nhm1) was identified in an ethyl methanesulfonate mutagenesis population of the heading Chinese cabbage double haploid line FT. Segregation analysis revealed that a single recessive gene, Brnhm1, controlled the mutant phenotype. Using MutMap, Kompetitive allele-specific PCR, and cloning analyses, we demonstrated that BraA07g042410.3C, which encodes an ent-kaurene synthase involved in the gibberellin biosynthesis pathway, is the nhm1 mutant candidate gene. A single-nucleotide mutation (C to T) in the fourth exon of BraA07g042410.3C caused an amino acid substitution from histidine to tyrosine. Compared to that of the wild-type FT, BraA07g042410.3C in the leaves of the nhm1 mutant had lower levels of expression. In addition, gibberellin contents were lower in the mutant than in the wild type, and the mutant plant phenotype could be restored to that of the wild type after exogenous GA3 treatment. These results indicate that BraA07g042410.3C caused the non-heading mutation. This is the first study to demonstrate a relationship between gibberellin content in the leaves and leafy head formation in Chinese cabbage. These findings facilitate the understanding of the mechanisms underlying leafy head development in Chinese cabbage.
The loss of function of HEL, which encodes a cellulose synthase interactive protein, causes helical and vine-like growth of tomato
Authors: Yang Qihong , Wan Xiaoshuai , Wang Jiaying , Zhang Yuyang , Zhang Junhong , Wang Taotao , Yang Changxian , Ye Zhibiao
Published: November 2020

Helical growth is an economical way for plant to obtain resources. The classic microtubule–microfibril alignment model ofArabidopsishelical growth involves restriction of the appropriate orientation of cellulose microfibrils appropriately in the cell walls. However, the molecular mechanism underlying tomato helical growth remains unknown. Here, we identified a spontaneous tomatohelical(hel) mutant with right-handed helical cotyledons and petals but left-handed helical stems and true leaves. Genetic analysis revealed that thehelphenotype was controlled by a single recessive gene. Using map-based cloning, we cloned theHELgene, which encodes a cellulose interacting protein homologous to CSI1 ofArabidopsis. We identified a 27 bp fragment replacement that generated a premature stop codon. Transgenic experiments showed that the helical growth phenotype could be restored by the allele of this gene from wild-typePyriforme. In contrast, the knockout mutation ofHELinPyriformevia CRISPR/Cas9 resulted in helical growth. These findings shed light on the molecular control of the helical growth of tomato.
Brassica rapa orphan genes largely affect soluble sugar metabolism
Authors: Jiang Mingliang , Zhan Zongxiang , Li Haiyan , Dong Xiangshu , Cheng Feng , Piao Zhongyun
Published: November 2020

Orphan genes (OGs), which are genes unique to a specific taxon, play a vital role in primary metabolism. However, little is known about the functional significance of Brassica rapa OGs (BrOGs) that were identified in our previous study. To study their biological functions, we developed a BrOG overexpression (BrOGOE) mutant library of 43 genes in Arabidopsis thaliana and assessed the phenotypic variation of the plants. We found that 19 of the 43 BrOGOE mutants displayed a mutant phenotype and 42 showed a variable soluble sugar content. One mutant, BrOG1OE, with significantly elevated fructose, glucose, and total sugar contents but a reduced sucrose content, was selected for in-depth analysis. BrOG1OE showed reduced expression and activity of the Arabidopsis sucrose synthase gene (AtSUS); however, the activity of invertase was unchanged. In contrast, silencing of two copies of BrOG1 in B. rapa, BraA08002322 (BrOG1A) and BraSca000221 (BrOG1B), by the use of an efficient CRISPR/Cas9 system of Chinese cabbage (B. rapa ssp. campestris) resulted in decreased fructose, glucose, and total soluble sugar contents because of the upregulation of BrSUS1b, BrSUS3, and, specifically, the BrSUS5 gene in the edited BrOG1 transgenic line. In addition, we observed increased sucrose content and SUS activity in the BrOG1 mutants, with the activity of invertase remaining unchanged. Thus, BrOG1 probably affected soluble sugar metabolism in a SUS-dependent manner. This is the first report investigating the function of BrOGs with respect to soluble sugar metabolism and reinforced the idea that OGs are a valuable resource for nutrient metabolism.
WUSCHEL-related homeobox1 (WOX1) regulates vein patterning and leaf size in Cucumis sativus
Authors: Wang Hu , Niu Huanhuan , Li Chuang , Shen Guoyan , Liu Xiaofeng , Weng Yiqun , Wu Tao , Li Zheng
Published: November 2020

In plants,WUSCHEL-related homeobox1(WOX1) homologs promote lamina mediolateral outgrowth. However, the downstream components linking WOX1 and lamina development remain unclear. In this study, we revealed the roles of WOX1 in palmate leaf expansion in cucumber (Cucumis sativus). A cucumbermango fruit(mf) mutant, resulting from truncation of a WOX1-type protein (CsWOX1), displayed abnormal lamina growth and defects in the development of secondary and smaller veins.CsWOX1was expressed in the middle mesophyll and leaf margins and rescued defects of theArabidopsis wox1 prsdouble mutant. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that genes involved in auxin polar transport and auxin response were highly associated with leaf development. Analysis of the cucumbermf rl(round leaf) double mutant revealed that CsWOX1 functioned in vein development via PINOID (CsPID1)-controlled auxin transport. Overexpression ofCsWOX1in cucumber (CsWOX1-OE) affected vein patterning and produced ‘butterfly-shaped’ leaves. CsWOX1 physically interacted with CsTCP4a, which may account for the abnormal lamina development in themfmutant line and the smaller leaves in theCsWOX1-OE plants. Our findings demonstrated that CsWOX1 regulates cucumber leaf vein development by modulating auxin polar transport; moreover, CsWOX1 regulates leaf size by controllingCIN-TCPgenes.
High-quality de novo assembly of the Eucommia ulmoides haploid genome provides new insights into evolution and rubber biosynthesis
Authors: Li Yun , Wei Hairong , Yang Jun , Du Kang , Li Jiang , Zhang Ying , Qiu Tong , Liu Zhao , Ren Yongyu , Song Lianjun , Kang Xiangyang
Published: November 2020

We report the acquisition of a high-quality haploid chromosome-scale genome assembly for the first time in a tree species,Eucommia ulmoides, which is known for its rubber biosynthesis and medicinal applications. The assembly was obtained by applying PacBio and Hi–C technologies to a haploid that we specifically generated. Compared to the initial genome release, this one has significantly improved assembly quality. The scaffold N50 (53.15 MB) increased 28-fold, and the repetitive sequence content (520 Mb) increased by 158.24 Mb, whereas the number of gaps decreased from 104,772 to 128. A total of 92.87% of the 26,001 predicted protein-coding genes identified with multiple strategies were anchored to the 17 chromosomes. A new whole-genome duplication event was superimposed on the earlier γ paleohexaploidization event, and the expansion of long terminal repeats contributed greatly to the evolution of the genome. The more primitive rubber biosynthesis of this species, as opposed to that inHevea brasiliensis, relies on the methylerythritol-phosphate pathway rather than the mevalonate pathway to synthesize isoprenyl diphosphate, as the MEP pathway operates predominantly intrans-polyisoprene-containing leaves and central peels. Chlorogenic acid biosynthesis pathway enzymes were preferentially expressed in leaves rather than in bark. This assembly with higher sequence contiguity can foster not only studies on genome structure and evolution, gene mapping, epigenetic analysis and functional genomics but also efforts to improveE. ulmoidesfor industrial and medical uses through genetic engineering.
Small-scale alpine topography at low latitudes and high altitudes: refuge areas of the genus Chrysanthemum and its allies
Authors: Chen Xi , Wang Haibin , Yang Xiaodong , Jiang Jiafu , Ren Guopeng , Wang Zijuan , Dong Xiaodong , Chen Fadi
Published: November 2020

Cultivated chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifoliumRamat.) is an economically important ornamental plant species grown worldwide. However, the origin of the genusChrysanthemumremains unclear. This study was conducted in the Hengduan Mountains, Yunnan Province. We took advantage of a special geographic region where the southernmost species ofAjaniaand the highest altitude population ofChrysanthemum indicumcoexist to investigate their evolutionary origins. Diversity analysis of 9 populations of 5 species that came from 3 genera was carried out based on morphological traits and SRAP markers. Furthermore, topographical and ecological analyses and surveys of the vegetation communities in the plots were carried out for correlation analysis, and past data were used to reconstruct the ancient topography and vegetation to estimate the migration path and divergence time. We found thatChrysanthemumandAjaniawere closely related based on the smooth transition states among marginal female florets and their common pollination system. The genetic relationship betweenPhaeostigmaandChrysanthemumwas relatively distant, andAjaniawas between them. Low light intensity and relatively humid habitats may be driving the elongation and evolution of marginal female florets. We found thatChrysanthemumand related genera were largely restricted to stony topographies at an altitude of ~3000 m.a.s.l. and in specialized alpine coniferous (Pinus) and broad-leaved (Quercus) mixed forest marginal communities. These stony topographies have become ecological islands of refuge for these species in the current interglacial period. The Hengduan Mountains play a key role in the evolution, divergence, and survival ofChrysanthemumand its allies.
The apple REFPOP—a reference population for genomics-assisted breeding in apple
Authors: Jung Michaela , Roth Morgane , Aranzana Maria José , Auwerkerken Annemarie , Bink Marco , Denancé Caroline , Dujak Christian , Durel Charles-Eric , Font i Forcada Carolina , Cantin Celia M. , Guerra Walter , Howard Nicholas P. , Keller Beat , Lewandowski Mariusz , Ordidge Matthew , Rymenants Marijn , Sanin Nadia , Studer Bruno , Zurawicz Edward , Laurens François , Patocchi Andrea , Muranty Hélène
Published: November 2020

Breeding of apple is a long-term and costly process due to the time and space requirements for screening selection candidates. Genomics-assisted breeding utilizes genomic and phenotypic information to increase the selection efficiency in breeding programs, and measurements of phenotypes in different environments can facilitate the application of the approach under various climatic conditions. Here we present an apple reference population: the apple REFPOP, a large collection formed of 534 genotypes planted in six European countries, as a unique tool to accelerate apple breeding. The population consisted of 269 accessions and 265 progeny from 27 parental combinations, representing the diversity in cultivated apple and current European breeding material, respectively. A high-density genome-wide dataset of 303,239 SNPs was produced as a combined output of two SNP arrays of different densities using marker imputation with an imputation accuracy of 0.95. Based on the genotypic data, linkage disequilibrium was low and population structure was weak. Two well-studied phenological traits of horticultural importance were measured. We found marker–trait associations in several previously identified genomic regions and maximum predictive abilities of 0.57 and 0.75 for floral emergence and harvest date, respectively. With decreasing SNP density, the detection of significant marker–trait associations varied depending on trait architecture. Regardless of the trait, 10,000 SNPs sufficed to maximize genomic prediction ability. We confirm the suitability of the apple REFPOP design for genomics-assisted breeding, especially for breeding programs using related germplasm, and emphasize the advantages of a coordinated and multinational effort for customizing apple breeding methods in the genomics era.
Accumulation of mutations in genes associated with sexual reproduction contributed to the domestication of a vegetatively propagated staple crop, enset
Authors: Tesfamicael Kiflu Gebramicael , Gebre Endale , March Timothy J. , Sznajder Beata , Mather Diane E. , Rodríguez López Carlos Marcelino
Published: November 2020

Enset (Ensete ventricosum(Welw.) Cheesman) is a drought tolerant, vegetatively propagated crop that was domesticated in Ethiopia. It is a staple food for more than 20 million people in Ethiopia. Despite its current importance and immense potential, enset is among the most genetically understudied and underexploited food crops. We collected 230 enset wild and cultivated accessions across the main enset producing regions in Ethiopia and applied amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and genotype by sequencing (GBS) analyses to these accessions. Wild and cultivated accessions were clearly separated from each other, with 89 genes found to harbour SNPs that separated wild from cultivated accessions. Among these, 17 genes are thought to be involved in flower initiation and seed development. Among cultivated accessions, differentiation was mostly associated with geographical location and with proximity to wild populations. Our results indicate that vegetative propagation of elite clones has favoured capacity for vegetative growth at the expense of capacity for sexual reproduction. This is consistent with previous reports that cultivated enset tends to produce non-viable seeds and flowers less frequently than wild enset.
Perception of unrelated microbe-associated molecular patterns triggers conserved yet variable physiological and transcriptional changes in Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis
Authors: Kim Wanhui , Prokchorchik Maxim , Tian Yonghua , Kim Seulgi , Jeon Hyelim , Segonzac Cécile
Published: November 2020

Pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) includes the different transcriptional and physiological responses that enable plants to ward off microbial invasion. Surface-localized pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) recognize conserved microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and initiate a branched signaling cascade that culminate in an effective restriction of pathogen growth. In the model species Arabidopsis thaliana, early PTI events triggered by different PRRs are broadly conserved although their nature or intensity is dependent on the origin and features of the detected MAMP. In order to provide a functional basis for disease resistance in leafy vegetable crops, we surveyed the conservation of PTI events in Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis. We identified the PRR homologs present in B. rapa genome and found that only one of the two copies of the bacterial Elongation factor-Tu receptor (EFR) might function. We also characterized the extent and unexpected specificity of the transcriptional changes occurring when B. rapa seedlings are treated with two unrelated MAMPs, the bacterial flagellin flg22 peptide and the fungal cell wall component chitin. Finally, using a MAMP-induced protection assay, we could show that bacterial and fungal MAMPs elicit a robust immunity in B. rapa, despite significant differences in the kinetic and amplitude of the early signaling events. Our data support the relevance of PTI for crop protection and highlight specific functional target for disease resistance breeding in Brassica crops.
Two new hexa-Ni-substituted polyoxometalates in the form of an isolated cluster and 1-D chain: syntheses, structures, and properties
Authors: Sun Jun-Jun , Wang Yue-Lin , Yang Guo-Yu
Published: November 2020

Two new hexa-Ni-substituted polyoxometalates are made and characterized, exhibiting electrochemical performance and photocatalytic activity for the degradation of organic dyes under UV irradiation.
Emerging investigator series: air conditioning filters as a sampler for semi-volatile organic compounds in indoor and near-building air
Authors: Jílková Simona Rozárka , Melymuk Lisa , Klánová Jana
Published: November 2020

SVOCs were measured in HVAC filters to compare seasonal differences, incoming vs. outgoing air, and semi-quantitatively determine indoor air concentrations.
Production of flavorful alcohols from woods and possible applications for wood brews and liquors
Authors: Otsuka Yuichiro , Nojiri Masanobu , Kusumoto Norihisa , Navarro Ronald R. , Hashida Koh , Matsui Naoyuki
Published: November 2020

This work explores the utilization of wood for high-value production of novel alcoholic brews and liquors with natural flavors.
Structural configuration and tetragonal phase stability in the equiatomic quaternary Heusler compound TiZnMnSi
Authors: Ji Jiaying , Gu Qijia , Khenata Rabah , Guo Fayang , Wang Yanfeng , Yang Tie , Tan Xingwen
Published: November 2020

The equiatomic quaternary Heusler compound TiZnMnSi exhibits strong tendency to tetragonal phase transformation.
New strategy for synthesis of hydroxyl-terminated poly(3-hexylthiophene) and its block copolymer using an η3-π-allyl hydroxyl-functionalized Ni(i) initiator
Authors: Min Xin , Zhan Changchao , Yan Ping , Ye Zhigang
Published: November 2020

A novel hydroxyl-terminated π-allyl nickel initiator is synthesized for the first time. Hydroxyl-terminated PB-b-P3HT block copolymer and hydroxyl-terminated P3HT are synthesized by using the initiator to improve the workability of P3HT.
Extracellular Histones Inhibit Fibrinolysis through Noncovalent and Covalent Interactions with Fibrin
Authors: Locke Matthew , Longstaff Colin
Published: November 2020

Histones released into circulation as neutrophil extracellular traps are causally implicated in the pathogenesis of arterial, venous, and microvascular thrombosis by promoting coagulation and enhancing clot stability. Histones induce structural changes in fibrin rendering it stronger and resistant to fibrinolysis. The current study extends these observations by defining the antifibrinolytic mechanisms of histones in purified, plasma, and whole blood systems. Although histones stimulated plasminogen activation in solution, they inhibited plasmin as competitive substrates. Protection of fibrin from plasmin digestion is enhanced by covalent incorporation of histones into fibrin, catalyzed by activated transglutaminase, coagulation factor FXIII (FXIIIa). All histone subtypes (H1, H2A, H2B, H3, and H4) were crosslinked to fibrin. A distinct, noncovalent mechanism explains histone-accelerated lateral aggregation of fibrin protofibrils, resulting in thicker fibers with higher mass-to-length ratios and in turn hampered fibrinolysis. However, histones were less effective at delaying fibrinolysis in the absence of FXIIIa activity. Therapeutic doses of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) prevented covalent but not noncovalent histone–fibrin interactions and neutralized the effects of histones on fibrinolysis. This suggests an additional antithrombotic mechanism for LMWH beyond anticoagulation. In conclusion, for the first time we report that histones are crosslinked to fibrin by FXIIIa and promote fibrinolytic resistance which can be overcome by FXIIIa inhibitors and histone-binding heparinoids. These findings provide a rationale for targeting the FXIII–histone–fibrin axis to destabilize fibrin and prevent potentially thrombotic fibrin networks.
Management of a Case of Aortic Valve Replacement with Left Ventricle Clot Removal Developing Acute Kidney Injury in Postoperative Period
Authors: Aggarwal Naresh Kumar , Bhoi Sushanta
Published: November 2020

Cardiac surgery associated-acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and a serious complication of cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass and it is the second most common cause of AKI in intensive care unit. Recently, two consensus conferences have suggested new diagnostic criteria to define AKI and risk score to better identify patients who will develop AKI after cardiac surgery. In fact, prompt recognition of high-risk patients could allow a more aggressive management at a reversible stage of an incoming ARF. In this case report, we have discussed a case of 21-year-old patient with bicuspid aortic valve with severe aortic stenosis with ejection fraction 15% and left ventricle (LV) clot undergoing surgery for aortic valve replacement with LV clot removal. In the postoperative period, he developed AKI that was managed successfully by early intervention by slow low efficiency dialysis and diafiltration and hemodialysis and patient discharged successfully from hospital.
Nanodiamonds shine as subcellular thermometers
Authors: Lopatka Alex
Published: November 2020

By taking advantage of the electron spin in nitrogen–vacancy centers and carefully tracking the centers, researchers detected temperature variations as small as 0.22 °C.
Quantum computing ramps up in private sector
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: November 2020

Ridicule has given way to high hopes.
ARPA–E can’t reach the promised land alone
Authors: Kramer David
Published: November 2020

Evaluating the success of an upstart agency that swings for the fences on clean-energy technologies isn’t straightforward.
James Jeans and The Mysterious Universe
Authors: Helsing Daniel
Published: November 2020

The controversial best seller heralded the end of an era in science popularizations.
Enhanced Context Sensitive Flash Codes
Authors: Baruch Gilad , Klein Shmuel T , Shapira Dana
Published: November 2020

A major property of flash memory is that a 0-bit can be changed into a 1-bit, but the symmetric task of switching from a 1-bit to a zero may only be performed in blocks and is therefore often prohibited. This led to the development of rewriting codes using the same storage space more than once, subject to the constraint that 0-bits can be changed into 1-bits, but not vice versa. Context sensitive rewriting codes extend this idea by also incorporating information gathered from surrounding bits. Several new context sensitive rewriting codes are presented and analyzed, some of which are better than the state of the art for sparse input. Empirical simulations show a good match with the theoretical results.
The Effects of Temperature and Host Stage on Development Rate of Parasitoids of Giant WhiteflyAleurodicus dugesii(Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Schoeller Erich N , Redak Richard A
Published: November 2020

The effects of rearing temperature and host stage parasitized on the development of three parasitoid species; Encarsia noyesi Hayat (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), Idioporus affinis LaSalle & Polaszek (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), and Entedononecremnus krauteri Zolnerowich & Rose (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) were investigated. These parasitoids are part of the biological control program for the giant whitefly Aleurodicus dugesii Cockerell (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in the United States. Temperature and host-dependent development was assessed for each species using the nonlinear Brière-1 model and simple linear regression to obtain critical thermal parameters. All three parasitoids successfully developed at constant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, which was narrower to their predicted thermal limits due to thermal constraints of A. dugesii. There were significant effects of both temperature and A. dugesii nymphal stage parasitized on immature parasitoid development times. All three parasitoid species’ development time decreased as nymphal stage age increased. Thermal tolerance limits and development times varied by parasitoid species. The results of these findings in the context of biological control potential are discussed.
Prior reconstruction of an isolated left vertebral artery for Stanford type A aortic dissection
Authors: Zuo Yi , Zhou Zheng-Chun , Ge Jian-Jun
Published: November 2020

Although isolated left vertebral artery is a supra-aortic trunk variant, it is not so rare. It may pose additional difficulties during total arch replacement surgeries. The aim of this study was to present our experience with prior reconstruction of isolated left vertebral artery by isolated left vertebral artery–left common carotid artery during total arch replacement combined with stented elephant trunk implantation.
Stable super-resolution of images: theoretical study
Authors: Eftekhari Armin , Bendory Tamir , Tang Gongguo
Published: November 2020

We study the ubiquitous super-resolution problem, in which one aims at localizing positive point sources in an image, blurred by the point spread function of the imaging device. To recover the point sources, we propose to solve a convex feasibility program, which simply finds a non-negative Borel measure that agrees with the observations collected by the imaging device. In the absence of imaging noise, we show that solving this convex program uniquely retrieves the point sources, provided that the imaging device collects enough observations. This result holds true if the point spread function of the imaging device can be decomposed into horizontal and vertical components and if the translations of these components form a Chebyshev system, i.e., a system of continuous functions that loosely behave like algebraic polynomials. Building upon the recent results for one-dimensional signals, we prove that this super-resolution algorithm is stable, in the generalized Wasserstein metric, to model mismatch (i.e., when the image is not sparse) and to additive imaging noise. In particular, the recovery error depends on the noise level and how well the image can be approximated with well-separated point sources. As an example, we verify these claims for the important case of a Gaussian point spread function. The proofs rely on the construction of novel interpolating polynomials—which are the main technical contribution of this paper—and partially resolve the question raised in Schiebinger et al. (2017, Inf. Inference, 7, 1–30) about the extension of the standard machinery to higher dimensions.
Super platforms, big data, and competition law: the Japanese approach in contrast with the USA and EU
Authors: Takigawa Toshiaki
Published: November 2020

This article examines antitrust issues concerning digital platforms equipped with big data. Recent initiatives by the Japanese competition agency are highlighted, comparing them with those by the USA and EU competition authorities. First examined is whether competition among platforms would result in a select few super platforms with market power, concluding that AI with machine learning has augmented the power of super platforms with strong AI-capability, leading to increased importance of merger control over acquisitions by platforms. Next scrutinized is the argument for utility-regulation to be imposed on super platforms, concluding that wide support is limited to data portability, leaving competition law as the key tool for addressing super platforms, its core tool being the provision against exclusionary conduct, enforcement of which, initially, concerns whether to order super platforms to render their data accessible to their rivals. Passive refusal-to-share data needs to be scrutinized under the essential facility doctrine. Beyond passive refusal, platforms’ exclusionary conduct requires competition agencies to weigh the conduct’s exclusionary effects against its efficiency effects. Finally addressed is exploitative abuse, explaining its relation to consumer protection, concluding that competition law enforcement on exploitative abuse should be minimized, since it accompanies risk of over-enforcement.
Measuring What Matters: How the Laboratory Contributes Value in the Opioid Crisis
Authors: Warrington Jill S , Swanson Kathleen , Dodd Monique , Lo Sheng-Ying , Haghamad Aya , Duque Teofilo Borunda , Cook Bernard
Published: November 2020

With over 20 years of the opioid crisis, our collective response has evolved to address the ongoing needs related to the management of opioid use and opioid use disorder. There has been an increasing recognition of the need for standardized metrics to evaluate organizational management and stewardship. The clinical laboratory, with a wealth of objective and quantitative health information, is uniquely poised to support opioid stewardship and drive valuable metrics for opioid prescribing practices and opioid use disorder (OUD) management.

To identify laboratory-related insights that support these patient populations, a collection of 5 independent institutions, under the umbrella of the Clinical Laboratory 2.0 movement, developed and prioritized metrics. Using a structured expert panel review, laboratory experts from 5 institutions assessed possible metrics as to their relative importance, usability, feasibility, and scientific acceptability based on the National Quality Forum criteria.

A total of 37 metrics spanning the topics of pain and substance use disorder (SUD) management were developed with consideration of how laboratory insights can impact clinical care. Monitoring these metrics, in the form of summative reports, dashboards, or embedded in laboratory reports themselves may support the clinical care teams and health systems in addressing the opioid crisis. The clinical insights and standardized metrics derived from the clinical laboratory during the opioid crisis exemplifies the value proposition of clinical laboratories shifting into a more active role in the healthcare system. This increased participation by the clinical laboratories may improve patient safety and reduce healthcare costs related to OUD and pain management.
Retroperitoneal leiomyoma of gynecologic type: a case report and review of the litterature
Authors: Sabrine Derqaoui , Hafsa Elouazzani , Omar Mkira , Jahid Ahmed , Znati Kaoutar , Zakia Bernoussi , Zouaidia Fouad
Published: November 2020

Retroperitoneal leiomyomas are rare benign tumors with smooth muscle differentiation, with only ~1001 cases reported in the English literature to date. Because of its scarcity and non-specific presentation, the preoperative diagnosis might be challenging. On histology, these neoplasms share the same macroscopic, morphological and phenotypic features with uterine leiomyoma; thus, they are referred to as leiomyoma of gynecologic type. Herein, we describe a case of a voluminous retroperitoneal leiomyoma in a 51-year-old woman with a history of total hysterectomy to raise awareness about this condition, as its differential diagnosis might be challenging.
Reactive oxygen species coordinate the transcriptional responses to iron availability in Arabidopsis
Authors: von der Mark Claudia , Ivanov Rumen , Eutebach Monique , Maurino Veronica G , Bauer Petra , Brumbarova Tzvetina
Published: November 2020

Reactive oxygen species play a central role in the regulation of plant responses to environmental stress. Under prolonged iron (Fe) deficiency, increased levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) initiate signaling events, resulting in the attenuation of Fe acquisition through the inhibition of FER-LIKE IRON DEFICIENCY-INDUCED TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR (FIT). As this H2O2 increase occurs in a FIT-dependent manner, our aim was to understand the processes involved in maintaining H2O2 levels under prolonged Fe deficiency and the role of FIT. We identified the CAT2 gene, encoding one of the three Arabidopsis catalase isoforms, as regulated by FIT. CAT2 loss-of-function plants displayed severe susceptibility to Fe deficiency and greatly increased H2O2 levels in roots. Analysis of the Fe homeostasis transcription cascade revealed that H2O2 influences the gene expression of downstream regulators FIT, BHLH genes of group Ib, and POPEYE (PYE); however, H2O2 did not affect their upstream regulators, such as BHLH104 and ILR3. Our data shows that FIT and CAT2 participate in a regulatory loop between H2O2 and prolonged Fe deficiency.
SLC2A12of SLC2 Gene Family in Bird Provides Functional Compensation for the Loss ofSLC2A4Gene in Other Vertebrates
Authors: Xiong Ying , Lei Fumin
Published: November 2020

Avian genomes are small and lack some genes that are conserved in the genomes of most other vertebrates including nonavian sauropsids. One hypothesis stated that paralogs may provide biochemical or physiological compensation for certain gene losses; however, no functional evidence has been reported to date. By integrating evolutionary analysis, physiological genomics, and experimental gene interference, we clearly demonstrate functional compensation for gene loss. A large-scale phylogenetic analysis of over 1,400 SLC2 gene sequences identifies six new SLC2 genes from nonmammalian vertebrates and divides the SLC2 gene family into four classes. Vertebrates retain class III SLC2 genes but partially lack the more recent duplicates of classes I and II. Birds appear to have completely lost the SLC2A4 gene that encodes an important insulin-sensitive GLUT in mammals. We found strong evidence for positive selection, indicating that the N-termini of SLC2A4 and SLC2A12 have undergone diversifying selection in birds and mammals, and there is a significant correlation between SLC2A12 functionality and basal metabolic rates in endotherms. Physiological genomics have uncovered that SLC2A12 expression and allelic variants are associated with insulin sensitivity and blood glucose levels in wild birds. Functional tests have indicated that SLC2A12 abrogation causes hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and high relative activity, thus increasing energy expenditures that resemble a diabetic phenotype. These analyses suggest that the SLC2A12 gene not only functionally compensates insulin response for SLC2A4 loss but also affects daily physical behavior and basal metabolic rate during bird evolution, highlighting that older genes retain a higher level of functional diversification.
Using population-level incidence of hepatitis C virus and immigration status for data-driven screening policies: a case study in Israel
Authors: Leventer-Roberts Maya , Dagan Noa , Berent Jenna M , Brufman Ilan , Hoshen Moshe , Braun Marius , Balicer Ran D , Feldman Becca S
Published: November 2020

Background

Most studies estimate hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease prevalence from convenience samples. Consequently, screening policies may not include those at the highest risk for a new diagnosis.

Methods

Clalit Health Services members aged 25–74 as of 31 December 2009 were included in the study. Rates of testing and new diagnoses of HCV were calculated, and potential risk groups were examined.

Results

Of the 2 029 501 included members, those aged 45–54 and immigrants had lower rates of testing (12.5% and 15.6%, respectively), higher rates of testing positive (0.8% and 1.1%, respectively), as well as the highest rates of testing positive among tested (6.1% and 6.9%, respectively).

Discussion

In this population-level study, groups more likely to test positive for HCV also had lower rates of testing. Policy makers and clinicians worldwide should consider creating screening policies using on population-based data to maximize the ability to detect and treat incident cases.
LncRNA–ENST00000446135 is a novel biomarker of cadmium toxicity in 16HBE cells, rats, and Cd-exposed workers and regulates DNA damage and repair
Authors: Zhou Zhiheng , Huang Zhijie , Chen Baoxin , Lu Qian , Cao Linlu , Chen Wenru
Published: November 2020

Cadmium (Cd) and its compounds are well-known human carcinogens, but the mechanisms underlying the carcinogenesis are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate whether long noncoding RNA (LncRNA)–ENST00000446135 could serve as a novel biomarker of Cd toxicity in cells, animals, and Cd-exposed workers and regulate DNA damage and repair. LncRNA–ENST00000446135 expression increased gradually in cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells. Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of LncRNA–ENST00000446135 inhibited the growth of DNA-damaged cells and decreased the expressions of DNA damage-related genes (ATM, ATR, and ATRIP), whereas increased the expressions of DNA repair-related genes (DDB1, DDB2, OGG1, ERCC1, MSH2, XRCC1, and BARD1). Chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing showed that MSH2 is a direct transcriptional target of lncRNA–ENST00000446135. Cadmium increased lncRNA–ENST00000446135 expression in the lung of Cd-exposed rats in a dose-dependent manner. A significant positive correlation was observed between blood ENST00000446135 expression and urinary/blood Cd concentrations, and there were significant correlations of LncRNA–ENST00000446135 expression with the DNA damage cell and the expressions of target genes in the lung of Cd-exposed rats and the blood of Cd-exposed workers and significantly correlated with liver and renal function in Cd-exposed workers. These results indicate that the expression of LncRNA–ENST00000446135 is upregulated and may serve as a signature for DNA damage and repair related to the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the cadmium toxicity and become a novel biomarker of cadmium toxicity.
Effective Teaching Qualities as Identified by Nursing Faculty
Authors: Noll Kelley
Published: November 2020

Effective educators possess strong behaviors that allow them to adapt their classrooms and develop respectful relationships with students. However, despite their advanced degrees, advanced degree nursing students are not taught effective teaching skills prior to employment, and research on teaching effectiveness is limited. This study explores behaviors perceived as effective by nursing faculty at a public university. It is the first to use the Teacher Behavior Checklist in nursing education. Providing advanced degree nursing students with opportunities to understand and adopt effective, evidence-based teaching behaviors prior to starting their faculty careers would benefit students and learning institutions worldwide.
English-as-an-Additional-Language Nursing Student Support Group: Student Leadership and Engagement
Authors: Choi Liza Lai Shan , Brochu Nadja
Published: November 2020

Hermeneutic phenomenology was used to explore the perceived impact of student engagement and leadership opportunities on English-as-an-additional-language (EAL) student success. Participant interviews revealed insight into the lived experiences of EAL students completing undergraduate nursing education in a secondary language. Research findings revealed: a) the importance of student engagement and leadership opportunities, b) the influence of student engagement and leadership opportunities on mental well-being, c) accessible student engagement and leadership opportunities for EAL students, and d) future ambitions encouraged by student engagement and leadership opportunities.
Interactive e-Learning Electrocardiogram Module: Increasing Confidence and Interpretation Ability Among Family Nurse Practitioner Students
Authors: Conelius Jaclyn
Published: November 2020

Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation is a skill that family nurse practitioners (FNPs) use almost daily in primary care. One way to teach ECG interpretation in a flexible way is through e-learning modules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the confidence and ability of ECG interpretation in FNP students who completed a series of e-learning modules. Student confidence and ability to correctly identify ECGs increased after completing the series (p < .0001). Adding self-paced modules such as this one into an FNP curriculum will likely be invaluable for students’ future clinical careers.
Structural Entropy of Daily Number of COVID-19 Related Fatalities
Authors: Unlu Eren
Published: November 2020

A recently proposed temporal correlation-based- network framework applied on financial markets called Struc- tural Entropy has prompted us to utilize it as a means of analysis for COVID-19 fatalities across countries. Our observation on the resemblance of volatility of fluctuations of daily novel coronavirus related number of deaths to the daily stock exchange returns suggests the applicability of this approach.
Surgical Diseases in North Korea: in view of North Korean medical journals
Authors: Choi Sejin , Kim Taehoon , Choi Soyoung , Shin Hee Young
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The demand for surgical diseases in North Korea is not fully reported despite its clinical significance. This study is to indirectly assess contemporary research trends and infrastructure status on surgical diseases in North Korea.

Methods

We analyzed articles of journal ‘Surgery’ published in Kim Jong-un era (2012-2018). The framework for categorization was primarily based on the disease entities, surgery specialty, and research methodology.

Results

1,792 articles in 28 issues were included in the study. The frequency of detailed surgery cases and the characteristics of their specialty were investigated. The types of medical imaging techniques and anesthetics commonly utilized in clinical fields in North Korea were also evaluated.

Conclusions

An obvious disjunction between actual disease prevalence and research trends mirrors the lack of surgical technique and infrastructure. Further evaluation and attention to the surgical system in North Korea are required.
Genetic study of circulating cytokines offers insight into the determinants, cascades and effects of systemic inflammation
Authors: Karhunen Ville , Gill Dipender , Malik Rainer , Ponsford Mark J. , Ahola-Olli Ari , Papadopoulou Areti , Palaniswamy Saranya , Mutt Shivaprakash Jagalur , Sebert Sylvain , Männikkö Minna , Auvinen Juha , Veijola Juha , Herzig Karl-Heinz , Timonen Markku , Keinänen-Kiukaanniemi Sirkka , Dichgans Martin , Salmi Marko , Jalkanen Sirpa , Lehtimäki Terho , Salomaa Veikko , Raitakari Olli , Jones Simon A , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Dehghan Abbas
Published: November 2020

Cytokines are the signalling molecules that underlie inflammatory processes. Here, we performed genome-wide association study (GWAS) analyses of 47 circulating cytokines in up to 13,365 individuals to identify protein quantitative trait loci (pQTL). Applying a novel approach, we incorporated pQTL and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data of 10,361 tissue samples in 635 individuals to identify biologically plausible genetic instruments to proxy the effect of cytokines. Using Mendelian randomization analysis, we explored the causal determinants of inflammatory cytokines, investigated inflammatory cascades and evaluated their effects on 20 diseases. We show evidence of body mass index (BMI), smoking and systolic blood pressure (SBP) being associated with inflammation, and specifically BMI affecting levels of active PAI-1, HGF, MCP1, sE-Selectin, sICAM1, TRAIL, IL6 and CRP. Our analysis highlights a key role of VEGF in influencing the levels of eight other inflammatory cytokines. Finally, we report evidence of sICAM affecting waist circumference and risk of major depressive disorder, evidence for TRAIL affecting the risk of cardiovascular diseases, breast and prostate cancer, and evidence for MIG affecting the risk of stroke. Overall, our results offer insight into inflammatory mediators of BMI, smoking and SBP, pleiotropic effects of VEGF, and circulating cytokines that increase the risk of cancer, cardiovascular, metabolic and neuropsychiatric diseases. All the studied cytokines represent pharmacological targets and therefore offer opportunities for clinical translation in diseases with inflammatory components.
Features of C-reactive protein in COVID-19 patients with different ages, clinical types and outcomes: a cohort study
Authors: Qu Gaojing , Huang Guoxin , Zhang Meiling , Yu Hui , Song Xiaoming , Zhu Haoming , Chen Lei , Wang Yunfu , Pei Bin
Published: November 2020

Background

To characterize C-reactive protein (CRP) changes features from patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and to quantify the correlation between CRP value and clinical classification.

Methods

This was a bidirectional observational cohort study. All laboratory confirmed COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital were included. Patients’ general information, clinical type, CRP value and outcome were collected. Patients were grouped according to the age, clinical type and outcome, and their CRP were compared. The CRP value, age gender, and clinical type were used to build a categorical regression model to investigate the association between CRP and clinical type.

Results

The 131 patients aged 50.13±17.13 years old. There were 4 mild, 88 moderate, 21 severe and 18 critical cases. Statistical significance of CRP median exists between different clinical types and ages. There were 10 deaths and 121 cases have been discharged. The CRP in death group dramatically increased continuously until died, while increased firstly and decreased later in the survivor and survivor in critical type. The categorical regression model also showed that CRP and age had significant coefficient. During the first 15 days from symptom onset, the maximum of CRP ranged between 0.47-53.37 mg/L were related to mild combined with moderate type, ranged 53.84-107.08 mg/L were related to severe type, and 107.42-150.00 mg/L were related to the critical type.

Conclusions

CRP showed different distribution feature and existed differences in various ages, clinical types and outcomes of COVID-19 patients. The features corresponded with disease progression.