bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional interactions between unlinked muscle genes within haploinsufficient regions of the Drosophila genome.
Authors: Homyk T , Emerson C P
Published: January 2021

Mutations in 13 genes affecting muscle development in Drosophila have been examined in pairwise combinations for evidence of genetic interactions. Heterozygous combinations of mutations in five genes, including the gene coding for myosin heavy chain, result in more severe phenotypes than respective single heterozygous mutant controls. The various mutant interactions include examples showing allele-specific intergenic interactions, gene specific interactions, and allele-specific intragenic complementations, suggesting that some interactions result from the manner in which mutant gene products associate. Interactions that result from alterations in "+" gene copy number were also uncovered, suggesting that normal myofibril development requires that the relative amounts of respective gene products produced be tightly regulated. The importance of the latter parameter is substantiated by the finding that all five interacting loci map to disperse haploinsufficient or haplolethal regions of the genome. The implications of the present findings are discussed in relation to pursuing the phenomena involving genetic interactions to identify new genes encoding interacting myofibrillar proteins, to examine the nature of intermolecular interactions in mutant and normal development and to decipher the quantitative and temporal regulation of a large family of functionally related gene products.
t-Specific DNA polymorphisms among wild mice from Israel and Spain.
Authors: Figueroa F , Neufeld E , Ritte U , Klein J
Published: January 2021

Lehrach and his coworkers have isolated a series of DNA probes that specifically hybridize with different regions of mouse chromosome 17 within the t complex. The probes display restriction fragment length polymorphisms, RFLPs, which are specific for the t haplotypes in all laboratory mouse strains tested thus far. Some of these probes have been used to test wild mice populations for these t-associated DNA forms. It is demonstrated that populations from Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Greece, Yugoslavia, Australia, Costa Rica, and Venezuela contain chromosomes in which all the tested DNA loci display the t-specific polymorphisms. The frequency of mice carrying these chromosomes is as high as 31%. Wild mice from Israel and Spain, on the other hand, carry chromosomes displaying t-specific DNA forms only at one or two of the probed loci, while the other loci carry the wild-type (+) forms. These chromosomes thus resemble the partial t haplotypes known from the study of laboratory mice. One possible interpretation of these findings is that these DNA polymorphisms contributed to the assembly of the complete t haplotypes and that these haplotypes may have originated in the Middle East.
Large-scale chromosomal restructuring is induced by the transposable element tam3 at the nivea locus of antirrhinum majus.
Authors: Martin C , Mackay S , Carpenter R
Published: January 2021

The transposable element, Tam3, gives rise to large-scale (greater than 1 kb) chromosomal rearrangements at a low frequency, when it is inserted at the nivea locus of Antirrhinum majus. Although some deletions may result from imprecise excision of Tam3, rearrangements involving deletion, dispersion and inverted duplication of flanking sequences, where Tam3 remains in situ, have also been identified. These rearrangements have been mapped at the molecular level, and the behavior of Tam3 following rearrangement has been observed. It is clear that Tam3 has enormous potential to restructure chromosomes through successive rounds of large-scale rearrangements. The mechanisms by which such rearrangements might arise are discussed.
Sequence of three bronze alleles of maize and correlation with the genetic fine structure.
Authors: Ralston E J , English J J , Dooner H K
Published: January 2021

The genomic sequences of three bronze alleles from Zea mays, Bz-McC, Bz-W22 and bz-R, are presented together with their flanking sequences. The bronze locus encodes UDPglucose flavonoid glucosyl-transferase (UFGT), an anthocyanin biosynthetic enzyme. The wild-type alleles Bz-McC and Bz-W22 condition purple phenotypes in the seed and plant, while bz-R conditions a bronze color. A full length cDNA corresponding to the Bz-McC allele was cloned and sequenced. Primer extension and RNase protection experiments were used to verify the 5' end of the bronze transcript. The Bz-McC allele has a 1416-bp coding region, a 100-bp intron and an approximately 83-bp 5' leader. Upstream of the message initiation site the sequences CTAACT and AATAAA occupy the positions where the eukaryotic consensus CCAAT and TATA boxes are normally found. The alleles Bz-McC and bz-R each have different large insertions with characteristics of transposable elements in their 5' flanking regions. The bz-R allele is distinguished by a 340-bp deletion starting within the intron and including 285 bp of the second exon. The Bz-McC and Bz-W22 isoalleles are known to differ in two genetically defined locations. The uts and uqv sites from the Bz-McC allele condition, respectively, lowered thermostability for the UFGT enzyme and increased amount of UFGT activity when compared with the corresponding sites in the Bz-W22 allele. The uts site maps to a region of the gene encoding two adjacent amino acid differences, either or both of which might alter the thermostability of the UFGT enzyme. The difference in UFGT levels conditioned by the uqv site is shown here to be correlated with variation in the bronze mRNA level. A likely cause of this decreased bronze mRNA level in Bz-W22 is a 6-bp duplication near the sequence CTAACT located 74 bp upstream of the bronze message initiation site. This region is therefore tentatively identified as the uqv site.
Genetic analysis of enhancer of split, a locus involved in neurogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster.
Authors: Ziemer A , Tietze K , Knust E , Campos-Ortega J A
Published: January 2021

Enhancer of split (E(spl)), one of the neurogenic loci of Drosophila, is uncovered by the deletion Df(3R)E(spl)(R-B251) with breakpoints at 96F8 and 96F13. We describe here the results of a genetic analysis of this chromosomal interval. Thirty-one mutations in genes of this region were recovered during various programs of mutagenesis. In addition, we included the spontaneous mutations E(spl)(D) and groucho (gro), which are known to map to this region, in our study. These 33 mutations define four lethal complementation groups, one of which includes E(spl)(D) and gro. Mutations of the E(spl) group behave as complementing and noncomplementing pseudoalleles, defining different functions. Alleles are classified according to their complementation behavior in two different ways: with respect to their viability as heterozygotes with other lethal alleles and with respect to gro and to E(spl)(D). The phenotypes of these mutations and the pattern of heteroallelic complementation speak in favor of a considerable genetic complexity of the E(spl) locus.
Taste sensitivity to trehalose and its alteration by gene dosage in Drosophila melanogaster.
Authors: Tanimura T , Isono K , Yamamoto M T
Published: January 2021

The taste sensitivity to the disaccharide trehalose of Drosophila melanogaster is under the genetic control by the Tre gene on the X chromosome. The gene is genetically dimorphic for high and low sensitivity and is likely to be functioning in the primary step of chemoreception. We have determined the cytological localization of the Tre gene to be between 5A10 and 5B1-3 by analyzing the sensitivity to trehalose in flies which are segmentally aneuploid bearing either deficiencies or duplicated fragments of T(X;Y) translocations. We also constructed flies which are aneuploidy and thus carry different dosage of Tre and/or Tre(+) alleles in order to examine the gene dosage effect on trehalose sensitivity and to deduce the nature of the gene's action. Trehalose sensitivity decreased in females carrying half the normal dosage of a given Tre allele, but a proportional increase in sensitivity was not observed in flies bearing a duplication of the Tre alleles. The changes in sensitivity in various aneuploid flies suggest that there is an upper limit to the number of molecules that can be incorporated into the receptor membrane. Genetic evidence strongly suggests that Tre is the structural gene for the trehalose receptor. We present a model to account for the mechanism of genetical control on the sensitivity to trehalose.
Coincident recombination during mitosis in saccharomyces: distance-dependent and -independent components.
Authors: Golin J E , Tampe H
Published: January 2021

In mitosis, coincident recombination events between widely separated markers occur more frequently than expected for two independent acts. Several different mechanisms have been proposed to account for this phenomenon. It has been argued that coincident recombination could be due to either an extensive region of heteroduplex DNA or some other distance-dependent mechanism. Alternately, it has been suggested that at least some is due to subpopulations of cells which undergo recombination at very high frequencies. The purpose of these experiments is to evaluate the possible contribution of distance-dependent and distance-independent components. By comparing the coincident recombination frequencies for markers on the same homolog as well as pairs of unlinked sites, we show that there is a strong distance-dependent component for at least 8.8-35-kbp, depending on the type of recombination event (conversion or intrachromosomal exchange). For larger distances separating sites, a distance-independent mechanism(s) results in higher than expected frequencies.
Gene conversions can generate sequence variants in the late chorion multigene families of Bombyx mori.
Authors: Yue X N , Sakaguchi B , Eickbush T H
Published: January 2021

The 140-kbp late chorion locus of Bombyx mori strain 703 contains 15 divergently oriented gene pairs encoding the high cysteine (Hc) eggshell proteins. Sequence homology is approximately 91% for the 2-kb region of each gene pair, including the 5' flanking region, intron and exons. The homology rapidly disappears within a few hundred basepairs of the 3' end of most genes. Here we present the results of the nucleotide sequence and genomic blot comparison of Hc genes from different races of B. mori. Comparison of the nucleotide sequences of the same gene pair in two different races reveals that most of the nucleotide differences occur in clusters or patches and correspond to sequences present in other Hc genes in the locus. The number of nucleotide differences that have accumulated in the highly conserved regions of the gene pair (2.3/100 bp), most of which are attributable to patchwork exchanges, is significantly higher than the number of differences in the poorly conserved 3' flanking regions (0.6/100 bp), due primarily to new mutations. These data are consistent with a gene conversion process, which in the short-term generates new combinations of sequence variants, but in the long-term results in concerted evolution. Genomic blot analyses of different geographical races of B. mori reveal that there is variation in the number of Hc gene pairs (14-19 gene pairs), indicating that unequal crossovers also occur in the locus.
Mutational analysis of the GAL4-encoded transcriptional activator protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Authors: Johnston M , Dover J
Published: January 2021

The GAL4 protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae binds to DNA upstream of each of six genes and stimulates their transcription. To locate regions of the protein responsible for these processes, we identified and characterized 88 gal4 mutations selected in vivo to reduce the ability to GAL4 protein to activate transcription. These mutations alter two regions of GAL4 protein: the DNA binding domain, and the transcription activation domain. Some mutations in the DNA binding domain that abolish the ability of GAL4 protein to bind to DNA in vitro change amino acid residues proposed to form a zinc finger, confirming that this structure is indeed involved in DNA binding. Four different amino acid changes in the zinc finger appear to reduce (but not abolish) the affinity of GAL4 protein for zinc ions, thereby identifying some of the amino acids involved in forming the zinc-binding structure. Several other mutations that abolish the DNA binding activity of the protein alter the 20 amino acids adjacent to the zinc finger, suggesting that these residues are part of the DNA binding domain. Two amino acid changes in the region adjacent to the zinc finger also appear to affect the ability of GAL4 protein to bind zinc ions, suggesting that this region of the protein can influence the structure of the zinc binding domain. The transcription activation domain of GAL4 protein is remarkably resistant to single amino acid changes: only 4 of the 42 mutations that alter this region of the protein are of the missense type. This observation is consistent with other lines of evidence that GAL4 protein possesses multiple transcription activation domains with unusual sequence flexibility.
Transposon tagging using Ty elements in yeast.
Authors: Garfinkel D J , Mastrangelo M F , Sanders N J , Shafer B K , Strathern J N
Published: January 2021

We have used the ability to induce high levels of Ty transposition to develop a method for transposon mutagenesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To facilitate genetic and molecular analysis, we have constructed GAL1-promoted TyH3 or Ty917 elements that contain unique cloning sites, and marked these elements with selectable genes. These genes include the yeast HIS3 gene, and the plasmid PiAN7 containing the Tn903 NEO gene. The marked Ty elements retain their ability to transpose, to mutate the LYS2, LYS5, or STE2 genes, and to activate the promoterless his3 delta 4 target gene. Ty elements containing selectable genes are also useful in strain construction, in chromosomal mapping, and in gene cloning strategies.
Lethal and amanitin-resistance mutations in the Caenorhabditis elegans ama-1 and ama-2 genes.
Authors: Rogalski T M , Bullerjahn A M , Riddle D L
Published: January 2021

Mutants of Caenorhabditis elegans resistant to alpha-amanitin have been isolated at a frequency of about 1.6 x 10(-6) after EMS mutagenesis of the wild-type strain, N2. Four new dominant resistance mutations have been studied genetically. Three are alleles of a previously identified gene, ama-1 IV, encoding the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II. The fourth mutation defines a new gene, ama-2 V. Unlike the ama-1 alleles, the ama-2 mutation exhibits a recessive-lethal phenotype. Growth and reproduction of N2 was inhibited at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml amanitin, whereas ama-2/+ animals were inhibited at 100 micrograms/ml, and 800 micrograms/ml was required to inhibit growth of ama-1/+ larvae. We have also determined that two reference strains used for genetic mapping, dpy-11(e224)V and sma-1(e30)V, are at least four-fold more sensitive to amanitin that the wild-type strain. Using an amanitin-resistant ama-1(m118) or ama-1(m322) strain as a parent, we have isolated amanitin-sensitive mutants that carry recessive-lethal ama-1 alleles. The frequency of EMS-induced lethal ama-1 mutations is approximately 1.7 x 10(-3), 1000-fold higher than the frequency of amanitin-resistance alleles. Nine of the lethal alleles are apparent null mutations, and they exhibit L1-lethal phenotypes at both 20 degrees and 25 degrees. Six alleles result in partial loss of RNA polymerase II function as determined by their sterile phenotypes at 20 degrees. All but one of these latter mutations exhibit a more severe phenotype at 25 degrees C. We have also selected seven EMS-induced revertants of three different ama-1 lethals. These revertants restore dominant resistance to amanitin. The selection for revertants also produced eight new dominant amanitin resistance alleles on the balancer chromosome, nT1.
Evidence for non-neutrality of mitochondrial DNA haplotypes in Drosophila pseudoobscura.
Authors: MacRae A F , Anderson W W
Published: January 2021

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes usually are assumed to be neutral, unselected markers of evolving female lineages. This assumption was tested by monitoring haplotype frequencies in 12 experimental populations of Drosophila pseudoobscura which were polymorphic for mtDNA haplotypes. Populations were maintained for at least 10 generations, and in one case for 32 generations, while tests of mtDNA selective neutrality were conducted. In an initial population, formed from a mixture of two strains with different mitochondrial haplotypes, the frequency of the Bogota haplotype increased 46% in 3 generations, reaching an apparent equilibrium frequency of 82% after 32 generations. Perturbation of this equilibrium by addition of the less common haplotype resulted in a rapid, dramatic increase in frequency of the second haplotype, and a return to essentially the same equilibrium frequency as before perturbation. This behavior is not consistent with mtDNA neutrality, nor is the equilibrium consistent with a simple model of constant selection on the haploid mtDNAs. Replicate cage experiments with mtDNA haplotypes did not always generate the same result as the initial cage. Several lines of evidence, including manipulations of the nuclear genome, support the idea that both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes are involved in the dramatic mtDNA frequency changes. In another experiment, strong female viability selection was implicated via mtDNA frequency changes. Although the causes of the dramatic mtDNA frequency changes in our populations are not obvious, it is clear that Drosophila mitochondrial haplotypes are not always simply neutral markers. Our findings are relevant to the introduction of a novel mtDNA variant from one species or one population into another. Such introductions could be strongly favored by selection, even if it is sporadic.
High resolution location of deep low-frequency tremors beneath the Kii Peninsula, Nankai subduction zone, Japan, using data from a dense seismic array
Authors: Sagae Kodai , Nakahara Hisashi , Nishimura Takeshi , Imanishi Kazutoshi
Published: January 2021

This study performs detection and location of deep low-frequency tremors beneath the Kii Peninsula, Nankai subduction zone, Japan, using data from a dense seismic array. We set a quantitative threshold for the tremor detection based on the Gaussian distribution of waveform coherence among stations to distinguish between tremor signal and noise. Then, we estimated slownesses and arrival azimuths by applying the Multiple Signal Classification method and performed hypocentre determination by backprojection onto the plate interface. During the analysed period of 2 yrs from July 2012 to July 2014, we detected  25155 tremor events which are approximately 2.2 times more than those in the AIST-tremor catalogue based on the conventional envelope correlation method ( 11475 events). This improvement is due to the detection of even weak amplitude tremors owing to the array analysis scheme, which uses recorded waveform’s phase information. Our high-resolution tremor catalogue leads to the following findings of the tremor activity in the Kii Peninsula. A few tremor episodes show continuous updip migration in the initial stage. The updip migration speed depends on whether the tremor migrates in the along-strike direction after the updip migration: approximately 1.0 km hr –1 for tremors that develop into the along-strike migration, and approximately 0.5 km hr–1 for those that do not. Estimated radiated energies are found to increase gradually with propagation into the updip direction. These findings suggest the depth dependence of the frictional strength on the plate interface. Furthermore, we noticed that accumulated radiated energies are positively correlated with the updip migration speed, and this relationship implies that fluid migration might play a role in the updip migration.
Adherence to COVID-19 mitigation measures among American adults: the need for consistent and unified messaging
Authors: Bekalu Mesfin A , Dhawan Dhriti , McCloud Rachel , Pinnamaneni Ramya , Viswanath Kasisomayajula
Published: January 2021

In the United States, elite and media communications about the risks of, and mitigation strategies for, COVID-19 have been characterized by lack of consensus. In this study, we draw from a nationally representative sample of American adults to examine the associations between exposure to different media and platforms (mainstream, conservative, liberal or social media) and adherence to COVID-19 mitigation measures such as physical distancing and mask use. We also examine the individual and social factors associated with adherence to mitigation measures. We find that exposure to conservative outlets, being republican, having low confidence in scientists and high perception of information overload are associated with low adherence. In contrast, exposure to liberal and mainstream news outlets, being democrat, having high confidence in scientists, and low perception of information overload are associated with high adherence. The findings suggest the need for consistent and unified public health messaging that cuts across partisan splits and the growing skepticism in science.
Extreme Duty Cycles in the Acoustic Signals of Tiger Moths: Sexual and Natural Selection Operating in Parallel
Authors: Fernández Y , Dowdy N J , Conner W E
Published: January 2021

Synopsis

Sound production in tiger moths (Erebidae: Arctiinae) plays a role in natural selection. Some species use tymbal sounds as jamming signals avoiding bat predation. High duty cycle signals have the greatest efficacy in this regard. Tiger moth sounds can also be used for intraspecific communication. Little is known about the role of sound in the mating behavior of jamming species or the signal preferences underlying mate choice. We recorded sound production during the courtship of two high duty cycle arctiines, Bertholdia trigona and Carales arizonensis. We characterized variation in their acoustic signals, measured female preference for male signals that vary in duty cycle, and performed female choice experiments to determine the effect of male duty cycle on the acceptance of male mates. Although both species produced sound during courtship, the role of acoustic communication appears different between the species. Bertholdia trigona was acoustically active in all intraspecific interactions. Females preferred and ultimately mated with males that produced higher duty cycles. Muted males were never chosen. In C. arizonensis however, sound emissions were limited during courtship and in some successful matings no sound was detected. Muted and clicking males were equally successful in female mate-choice experiments, indicating that acoustic communication is not essential for mating in C. arizonensis. Our results suggest that in B. trigona natural and sexual selection may work in parallel, to favor higher duty cycle clicking.
Effects of Long-Term Bare Fallow During the Winter-Wheat Growth Season on the Soil Chemical Properties, Fungal Community Composition, and the Occurrence of Maize Fungal Diseases in North China
Authors: Wang Yajiao , Ji Lijing , Li Qiusheng , Wu Yuxing , Li Congcong , Kong Lingxiao , Wang Xifeng
Published: January 2021

On the North China Plain, one of the most water-deficient regions in China, bare fallow has been implemented over a large-scale area to conserve water during the growth season of water-intensive winter wheat since 2015. However, the effects of this bare fallow on fungal community and the occurrence of crop diseases are poorly understood. Here we measured soil chemical properties, fungal community composition, and the occurrence of crop diseases after 15 years of long-term fallow (continuous maize or soybean) and non-fallow (maize-wheat rotation; soybean-wheat rotation) cropping systems. Bare fallow during the winter-wheat growth season significantly decreased soil organic matter, available nitrogen, and phosphorus. It also changed the composition of soil fungal communities, i.e., increased relative abundances of some potentially pathogenic species of Lectera, Fusarium, and Volutella but decreased beneficial Cladorrhium and Schizothecium. Meanwhile, the epidemic tendency of maize diseases changed correspondingly: the disease index of southern corn leaf blight and maize brown spot increased, but the incidence of stalk rot decreased compared with the non-fallow system. Soybean diseases were very mild regardless of the cropping system during the total experimental period. Network analysis demonstrated that the soil fungal diversity associated with maize diseases was affected by the decreased soil organic matter and available nitrogen and phosphorus. Our results suggest that bare fallow in the winter-wheat season affected the soil chemical properties, fungal community, and the occurrence of maize fungal diseases.
Endovascular reversal of renovascular hypertension blunts cardiac dysfunction and deformation in swine
Authors: Yu Shasha , Jiang Kai , Zhu Xiang Y. , Ferguson Christopher M. , Krier James D. , Lerman Amir , Lerman Lilach O.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Renovascular hypertension (RVH) induces hemodynamic and humoral aberrations that may impair cardiac function, structure and mechanics, including cardiac twist and deformation. Revascularization of a stenotic renal artery can decrease blood pressure (BP), but its ability to restore cardiac mechanics in RVH remains unclear. We hypothesized that percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) would improve cardiac function and left ventricular (LV) deformation in swine RVH.

Methods:

Seventeen domestic pigs were studied for 16 weeks: RVH, RVH + PTRA and normal controls (n = 5–6 each). Global LV function was estimated by multidetector computed-tomography, and LV deformation by electrocardiographically triggered MRI tagging at the apical, mid, and basal LV levels. Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, myocardial capillary density, and fibrosis were evaluated ex vivo.

Results:

BP and wall thickness were elevated in RVH and decreased by PTRA, yet remained higher than in controls. LV myocardial muscle mass increased in RVH pigs, which also developed diastolic dysfunction, whereas cardiac output increased. Furthermore, both apical rotation and peak torsion angle increased in RVH compared with controls. Ex vivo, RVH induced myocardial fibrosis and vascular rarefaction. PTRA restored cardiac function and alleviated hypertrophy, vascular rarefaction, and fibrosis. PTRA also normalized apical rotation and peak torsion angle, and elevated basal peak radial strain and apical peak radial strain compared with RVH.

Conclusion:

In addition to cardiac LV adaptive hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction, short-term RVH causes cardiac deformation. Despite only partial improvement in BP, PTRA effectively restored cardiac function and reversed abnormal mechanics. Hence, renal revascularization may be a useful strategy to preserve cardiac function in RVH.
Role of arterial stiffness in the association between hand grip strength and cardiovascular events: the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study
Authors: Kim Woohyeun , Kim Seong Hwan , Choi Cheol Ung , Lee Seung Ku , Kang Dong Oh , Choi Jah Yeon , Roh Seung-Young , Na Jin Oh , Kim Jin Won , Kim Eung Ju , Rha Seung-Woon , Park Chang Gyu , Seo Hong Seog , Shin Chol
Published: January 2021

Background:

Hand grip strength (HGS) has been associated with cardiovascular events. However, the exact mechanism responsible for the inverse association between HGS and cardiovascular events has not been established. The aim of this study was to assess whether arterial stiffness mediates this association.

Methods:

We studied 1508 participants (age; 60 ± 5, men; 47.5%) from the Ansan cohort of the Korean Genome Epidemiology Study. Participants were assessed for various parameters of arterial stiffness as well as HGS. The augmentation index (AIx) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were evaluated by using an applanation tonometer and automated waveform analyzer, respectively. Carotid intima medial thickness (IMT) was measured by B-mode ultrasonogram with a 7.5-MHz linear array transducer. HGS was evaluated using a Jamar dynamometer.

Results:

With increased grip strength, AIx decreased (r = 0.437, P < 0.001). baPWV (r = 0.044, P = 0.107) and carotid IMT (r = 0.005, P = 0.856) had no significant correlation with grip strength. This trend was consistently observed regardless of hypertension, but was more pronounced in participants with hypertension.

Conclusion:

HGS was significantly correlated with AIx, but not with baPWV and carotid IMT. Our findings suggest that central arterial stiffness could mediate the association between HGS and cardiovascular events.
Temperature modulates immune gene expression in mosquitoes during arbovirus infection
Authors: Wimalasiri-Yapa B. M. C. Randika , Barrero Roberto A. , Stassen Liesel , Hafner Louise M. , McGraw Elizabeth A. , Pyke Alyssa T. , Jansen Cassie C. , Suhrbier Andreas , Yakob Laith , Hu Wenbiao , Devine Gregor J. , Frentiu Francesca D.
Published: January 2021

The principal vector of dengue, Zika and chikungunya viruses is the mosquito
Aedes aegypti
, with its ability to transmit pathogens influenced by ambient temperature. We use chikungunya virus (CHIKV) to understand how the mosquito transcriptome responds to arbovirus infection at different ambient temperatures. We exposed CHIKV-infected mosquitoes to 18, 28 and 32°C, and found that higher temperature correlated with higher virus levels, particularly at 3 days post infection, but lower temperature resulted in reduced virus levels. RNAseq analysis indicated significantly altered gene expression levels in CHIKV infection. The highest number of significantly differentially expressed genes was observed at 28°C, with a more muted effect at the other temperatures. At the higher temperature, the expression of many classical immune genes, including
Dicer-2
, was not substantially altered in response to CHIKV. The upregulation of Toll, IMD and JAK-STAT pathways was only observed at 28°C. Functional annotations suggested that genes in immune response and metabolic pathways related to energy supply and DNA replication were involved in temperature-dependent changes. Time post infection also led to substantially different gene expression profiles, and this varied with temperature. In conclusion, temperature significantly modulates mosquito gene expression in response to infection, potentially leading to impairment of immune defences at higher temperatures.
Yersinia occitanica is a later heterotypic synonym of Yersinia kristensenii subsp. rochesterensis and elevation of Yersinia kristensenii subsp. rochesterensis to species status
Authors: Nguyen Scott Van , Cunningham Scott A. , Jeraldo Patricio , Tran Anthony , Patel Robin
Published: January 2021

The taxonomic position of

Yersinia kristensenii

subsp.

rochesterensis

and

Yersinia occitanica

was re-evaluated by genomic analysis. Average nucleotide identity (ANI), digital DNA–DNA hybridization values, and phylogenetic analyses of the type strains indicate that

Y. kristensenii

subsp.

rochesterensis

and

Y. occitanica

are the same genospecies. Additionally, the overall genomic relatedness index (OGRI) values reveal that

Y. kristensenii

subsp.

rochesterensis

should be elevated to species status as Yersinia rochesterensis sp. nov.
A palette of fluorophores that are differentially accumulated by wild-type and mutant strains of Escherichia coli: surrogate ligands for profiling bacterial membrane transporters
Authors: Salcedo-Sora Jesus Enrique , Jindal Srijan , O'Hagan Steve , Kell Douglas B.
Published: January 2021

Our previous work demonstrated that two commonly used fluorescent dyes that were accumulated by wild-type

Escherichia coli

MG1655 were differentially transported in single-gene knockout strains, and also that they might be used as surrogates in flow cytometric transporter assays. We summarize the desirable properties of such stains, and here survey 143 candidate dyes. We eventually triage them (on the basis of signal, accumulation levels and cost) to a palette of 39 commercially available and affordable fluorophores that are accumulated significantly by wild-type cells of the ‘Keio’ strain BW25113, as measured flow cytometrically. Cheminformatic analyses indicate both their similarities and their (much more considerable) structural differences. We describe the effects of pH and of the efflux pump inhibitor chlorpromazine on the accumulation of the dyes. Even the ‘wild-type’ MG1655 and BW25113 strains can differ significantly in their ability to take up such dyes. We illustrate the highly differential uptake of our dyes into strains with particular lesions in, or overexpressed levels of, three particular transporters or transporter components (yhjV, yihN and tolC). The relatively small collection of dyes described offers a rapid, inexpensive, convenient and informative approach to the assessment of microbial physiology and phenotyping of membrane transporter function.
A novel universal algorithm for filament network tracing and cytoskeleton analysis
Authors: Flormann D.A.D. , Schu M. , Terriac E. , Thalla D. , Kainka L. , Koch M. , Gad A.K.B. , Lautenschläger F.
Published: January 2021

The rapid development of advanced microscopy techniques over recent decades has significantly increased the quality of imaging and our understanding of subcellular structures, such as the organization of the filaments of the cytoskeleton using fluorescence and electron microscopy. However, these recent improvements in imaging techniques have not been matched by similar development of techniques for computational analysis of the images of filament networks that can now be obtained. Hence, for a wide range of applications, reliable computational analysis of such two-dimensional (2D) methods remains challenging. Here, we present a new algorithm for tracing of filament networks. This software can extract many important parameters from grayscale images of filament networks, including the Mesh Hole Size, and Filament Length and Connectivity (also known as Coordination Number. In addition, the method allows sub-networks to be distinguished in 2D images using intensity thresholding. We show that the algorithm can be used to analyze images of cytoskeleton networks obtained using different advanced microscopy methods. We have thus developed a new improved method for computational analysis of 2D images of filamentous networks that has wide applications for existing imaging techniques. The algorithm is available as open-source software.
FGF21 Normalizes Plasma Glucose in Mouse Models of Type 1 Diabetes and Insulin Receptor Dysfunction
Authors: Diener John L , Mowbray Sarah , Huang Waan-Jeng , Yowe David , Xu Jian , Caplan Shari , Misra Abhay , Kapur Ankur , Shapiro Jeffrey , Ke Xiaoling , Wu Xiaoping , Bose Avirup , Panza Darrell , Chen Min , Beaulieu Valerie , Gao Jiaping
Published: January 2021

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family of proteins. The biological activity of FGF21 was first shown to induce insulin independent glucose uptake in adipocytes through the GLUT1 transporter. Subsequently, it was shown to have effects on the liver to increase fatty acid oxidation. FGF21 treatment provides beneficial metabolic effects in both animal models and patients with obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and/or fatty liver disease. In this paper, we revisited the original finding and found that insulin independent glucose uptake in adipocytes is preserved in the presence of an insulin receptor antagonist. Using a 40 kDa PEGylated (PEG) and half-life extended form of FGF21 (FGF21-PEG), we extended thesein vitroresults to two different mouse models of diabetes. FGF21-PEG normalized plasma glucose in streptozotocin-treated mice, a model of type 1 diabetes (T1D), without restoring pancreatic β-cell function. FGF21-PEG also normalized plasma glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance in mice chronically treated with an insulin competitive insulin receptor antagonist, a model of autoimmune/Type-B insulin resistance. These data extend the pharmacological potential of FGF21 beyond the settings of T2D, fatty liver and obesity.
Fostering Team‐Level Idea Implementation: Leader's Upward Exchange Relationship as a Key Facilitator
Authors: Li Yan , Fu Fengying , Ma Lin
Published: January 2021

The innovation literature is rife with references to the importance of creativity, but idea implementation has largely been ignored. Several recent studies take an individual‐centric perspective but neglect the team‐level idea conversion process. To enhance the understanding of idea implementation as an important process of innovation, this study drew on the social capital perspective and proposed a team‐level mediated moderation model. Data was collected from 63 teams in China. The empirical analyses showed that the leader–leader exchange relationship (LLX) moderates the relationship between idea generation and implementation, and team efficacy mediates the moderating effect of LLX on the idea generation–implementation association. According to these findings, we discuss theoretical and practical implications. Finally, we put forward directions for future research.
Rapid response team nurses' attitudes and barriers to the rapid response system: A multicentre survey
Authors: Loisa Eetu , Hoppu Sanna , Hytönen Sari‐Marja , Tirkkonen Joonas
Published: January 2021

Background

Despite wide implementation of rapid response teams (RRTs), no published data exist on RRT nurses' attitudes and barriers to the rapid response system (RRS).

Methods

We piloted a 5‐point Likert‐type scale questionnaire among all Finnish university hospitals' RRT nurses with optional open‐ended comments. The impact of more frequent RRT participation was further investigated.

Results

The response rate was 46% (n = 176/379, 34%‐93% between hospitals). The respondents median experience on a RRT was three years (0.8‐5) and median participation was two (1˗5) RRT activations per month. Over 90% of the RRT nurses felt that RRS prevented cardiac arrests and improved patient safety. Nurses with five or more RRT activations/month believed their critical care skills had improved through these duties (94% vs 71%, P = .001), considered their RRT work meaningful (94% vs 76%, P = .005) and wanted to continue as RRT nurses (91% vs 74%, P = .015) more often than nurses with less than five RRT activations/month. In addition to the infrequent RRT participation, further negative experiences with RRS among the RRT nurses included feeling overworked (68%) or undercompensated (94%) for the RRT duties and conflicts between RRT and ward doctors (25%).

Conclusion

RRT nurses consider their work important and believe it fosters improved critical care skills; these beliefs are emphasized among those with more frequent RRT participation. Infrequent RRT participation, feeling overworked and/or undercompensated and conflicts between RRT and ward doctors may present barriers for successful RRS among RRT nurses.
What makes one feel eustress or distress in quarantine? An analysis from conservation of resources (COR) theory
Authors: Merino M. Dolores , Vallellano M. Dolores , Oliver Coral , Mateo Inmaculada
Published: January 2021

Objective

Health quarantines produce serious deterioration in psychological health, which becomes more affected the longer the quarantine lasts. According to the Conservation of Resources theory from Hobfoll (1989, American Psychologist, 44, 513), those people who have a good supply of resources will be able to cope better with the adversities and will show less distress. The objective of this research is to identify what are the resources that, in a situation of confinement under the threat of COVID‐19, predict eustress or well‐being, and the loss or lack of which resources predict distress or discomfort.

Design and Method

A total of 839 people complete an online questionnaire during the first week of COVID‐19 confinement in Spain. The sample is weighted to obtain a distribution that is similar to the Spanish population. Using multiple linear regression analysis, factors are identified that are associated with eustress and distress based on the Conservation of Resources theory.

Results

A model is identified that explains 55% of the variance of eustress consisting mostly of personal resources, with vitality as the recourse having the most weight. The factors that explain distress (18.9% of the variance) are those related to work (employment situation, work satisfaction, and time devoted to work) and conditions in the home (space).

Conclusions

The models that predict eustress and distress are completely different. Based on these results, a series of recommendations are proposed aimed at increasing eustress and reducing distress in a situation of confinement. Additionally, proposals are offered for future research.
Molecular effects of photon irradiation and subsequent aftercare treatment with dexpanthenol‐containing ointment or liquid in 3D models of human skin and non‐keratinized oral mucosa
Authors: Huth Sebastian , Marquardt Yvonne , Huth Laura , Schmitt Laurenz , Prescher Kirsten , Winterhalder Philipp , Steiner Timm , Hölzle Frank , Eble Michael , Malte Baron Jens
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to investigate the molecular effects of radiation and subsequent aftercare treatment with dexpanthenol‐containing ointment and liquid on established full‐thickness 3D skin models depicting acute radiodermatitis and mucositis. To mimic radiomucositis and radiodermatitis, non‐keratinized mucous membrane and normal human skin models were irradiated with 5 Gray. Afterwards, models were treated topically every second day with dexpanthenol‐containing ointment or liquid in comparison with placebo and untreated controls. On day 7 after irradiation, histological examination showed impairments in irradiated models. In contrast, models treated with dexpanthenol‐containing ointment or liquid showed a completely restored epidermal part. While gene expression profiling revealed an induction of genes related to a pro‐inflammatory milieu, oxidative stress and an impaired epidermal differentiation after irradiation of the models, aftercare treatment with dexpanthenol‐containing ointment or liquid revealed anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects and had a positive effect on epidermal differentiation and structures important for physical and antimicrobial barrier function. Our findings confirm the potential of our established models as in vitro tools for the replacement of pharmacological in vivo studies regarding radiation‐induced skin injuries and give indications of the positive effects of dexpanthenol‐containing externals after radiation treatments as part of supportive tumor treatment.
The Association of Exposure to Military Sexual Trauma and Romantic Relationship Satisfaction Among Partnered Men Service Members/Veterans: The Influence of Compulsive Sexual Behavior
Authors: Blais Rebecca K.
Published: January 2021

Civilian literature shows a strong, consistent association between exposure to sexual violence and poor romantic relationship satisfaction. The impact of sexual violence that occurred during military service, or military sexual trauma (MST), on romantic relationship satisfaction among partnered men service members/veterans (SM/Vs) is understudied. However, a recent study conducted in women observed that MST that involved an assault was associated with poorer relationship satisfaction through higher sexual dysfunction and lower sexual satisfaction. The current study extended the literature by examining sexual function as a mediator of the association of exposure to MST and romantic relationship satisfaction among partnered men SM/Vs (N = 499). Participants completed self‐report measures of MST exposure, romantic relationship satisfaction, erectile dysfunction, and compulsive sexual behavior, as well as a demographic inventory. The average score on relationship satisfaction was in the distressed range. Sixty‐four participants (12.83%) reported MST exposure. MST exposure was related to lower relationship satisfaction through higher compulsive sexual behavior. The model explained 16% of the variance in relationship satisfaction. The indirect effect of erectile dysfunction was nonsignificant. Current findings are consistent with research in women SM/Vs: the association of MST and romantic relationship satisfaction appears to be indirect, through the effects of sexual function. Couples’ therapy may be most effective if it addresses sexual health concerns among men MST survivors, particularly engagement in compulsive sexual behaviors. Due to low endorsement of MST that involved assault, the impact of MST severity could not be examined.
Training Early Career Great Lakes Scientists for Effective Engagement and Impact
Authors: Hunnell Jennifer , Triezenberg Heather , Doberneck Diane
Published: January 2021

Freshwater systems worldwide are increasingly facing complex environmental issues. In the Laurentian Great Lakes region, harmful algal blooms are one example spanning agriculture, municipal drinking water, science and monitoring, water quality, and human health. Addressing these challenges and working across stakeholder interests requires sound science and additional skills that are not necessarily taught to graduate students in the apprentice research model. Effective stakeholder engagement and science communication are two areas consistent with emphases on broader impacts from the National Science Foundation, information and dissemination of the National Institutes of Health, and community engagement of the National Institutes of Health's Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The lack of training in these areas creates a gap for outreach, engagement, and science communication training to help enable researchers to translate important science to influential stakeholders, policy makers, and members of the public. To address this gap, we held a Community‐Engaged Scholarship Workshop for graduate students and early career faculty. The workshop used an established community‐engagement framework and was tailored to address the complex environmental issue of harmful algal blooms. It addressed four community‐engagement competencies, including community‐engaged partnerships, community‐engaged teaching and learning, community‐engaged research, and science communications. Here, we report evaluation results on changes in these four competencies and participant satisfaction. We conclude with a discussion of potential improvements and next steps for those seeking to host similar community‐engaged trainings.