bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disruption of Arabidopsis neutral ceramidases 1 and 2 results in specific sphingolipid imbalances triggering different phytohormone‐dependent plant cell death programmes
Authors: Zienkiewicz Agnieszka , Gömann Jasmin , König Stefanie , Herrfurth Cornelia , Liu Yi‐Tse , Meldau Dorothea , Feussner Ivo 
Published: November 2019

Summary

Sphingolipids act as regulators of programmed cell death (PCD) and the plant defence response. The homeostasis between long‐chain base (LCB) and ceramide (Cer) seems to play an important role in executions of PCD. Therefore, deciphering the role of neutral ceramidases (NCER) is crucial to identify the sphingolipid compounds that trigger and execute PCD.

We performed comprehensive sphingolipid and phytohormone analyses of Arabidopsis ncer mutants, combined with gene expression profiling and microscopic analyses.

While ncer1 exhibited early leaf senescence (developmentally controlled PCD – dPCD) and an increase in hydroxyceramides, ncer2 showed spontaneous cell death (pathogen‐triggered PCD‐like – pPCD) accompanied by an increase in LCB t18:0 at 35 d, respectively. Loss of NCER1 function resulted in accumulation of jasmonoyl‐isoleucine (JA‐Ile) in the leaves, whereas disruption of NCER2 was accompanied by higher levels of salicylic acid (SA) and increased sensitivity to Fumonisin B1 (FB1). All mutants were also found to activate plant defence pathways. These data strongly suggest that NCER1 hydrolyses ceramides whereas NCER2 functions as a ceramide synthase.

Our results reveal an important role of NCER in the regulation of both dPCD and pPCD via a tight connection between the phytohormone and sphingolipid levels in these two processes.
KRAS mutations in implant‐associated peripheral giant cell granuloma
Authors: Martins‐Chaves Roberta Rayra , Guimarães Letícia Martins , Pereira Thaís dos Santos Fontes , Pereira Núbia Braga , Chrcanovic Bruno Ramos , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Lafuente‐Ibáñez de Mendoza Irene , Aguirre‐Urizar José Manuel , Gomes Carolina Cavaliéri , Gomez Ricardo Santiago 
Published: November 2019

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate the molecular pathogenesis of implant‐associated peripheral giant cell granuloma (IA‐PGCG).MethodsA convenience sample of 15 IA‐PGCG cases was selected. Hotspot mutations of KRAS, FGFR1, and TRPV4 genes, previously reported in conventional giant cell lesions of the jaws, were investigated by Sanger sequencing. As these mutations could activate MAPK/ERK pathway, the expression of phospho‐ERK1/2 was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry.ResultsKRAS mutations were detected in 8/15 (53.4%) samples. Similar to conventional peripheral giant cell granuloma, the KRAS mutations most frequently occurred in codon 146 (p.A146V, n = 3), followed by codon 12 (p.G12A and p.G12D, n = 1 each) and codon 14 (p.V14L, n = 1). Variants of unknown significance (VUS) were also detected in two cases, affecting codons 37 (p.E37K) and 127 (p.T127I). All samples showed wild‐type (WT) sequences for FGFR1 and TRPV4 genes. Consistent with MAPK/ERK pathway activation, all mononuclear cells of the lesion showed strong staining for phospho‐ERK1/2 protein in the immunohistochemical analysis.ConclusionsKRAS mutations and activation of the MAPK‐ERK signaling pathway occur in IA‐PGCG. This is the first study to demonstrate cancer‐associated gene mutations in a non‐neoplastic reactive condition associated with dental implants.
Herbivore‐specific plant volatiles prime neighboring plants for nonspecific defense responses
Authors: Paudel Timilsena Bipana , Seidl‐Adams Irmgard , Tumlinson James H. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractPlants produce species‐specific herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) after damage. We tested the hypothesis that herbivore‐specific HIPVs prime neighboring plants to induce defenses specific to the priming herbivore. Since Manduca sexta (specialist) and Heliothis virescens (generalist) herbivory induced unique HIPV profiles in Nicotiana benthamiana, we used these HIPVs to prime receiver plants for defense responses to simulated herbivory (mechanical wounding and herbivore regurgitant application). Jasmonic acid (JA) accumulations and emitted volatile profiles were monitored as representative defense responses since JA is the major plant hormone involved in wound and defense signaling and HIPVs have been implicated as signals in tritrophic interactions. Herbivore species‐specific HIPVs primed neighboring plants, which produced 2 to 4 times more volatiles and JA after simulated herbivory when compared to similarly treated constitutive volatile‐exposed plants. However, HIPV‐exposed plants accumulated similar amounts of volatiles and JA independent of the combination of priming or challenging herbivore. Furthermore, volatile profiles emitted by primed plants depended only on the challenging herbivore species but not on the species‐specific HIPV profile of damaged emitter plants. This suggests that feeding by either herbivore species primed neighboring plants for increased HIPV emissions specific to the subsequently attacking herbivore and is probably controlled by JA.
Comparative genome and transcriptome analysis unravels key factors of nitrogen use efficiency in Brassica napus L
Authors: Li Quan , Ding Guangda , Yang Ningmei , White Philip John , Ye Xiangsheng , Cai Hongmei , Lu Jianwei , Shi Lei , Xu Fangsen 
Published: November 2019

AbstractConsiderable genetic variation in agronomic nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) has been reported among genotypes of Brassica napus. However, the physiological and molecular mechanisms underpinning these differences remain poorly understood. In this study, physiological and genetic factors impacting NUE were identified in field trials and hydroponic experiments using two B. napus genotypes with contrasting NUE. The results showed that the N‐efficient genotype (D4‐15) had greater N uptake and utilization efficiencies, more root tips, larger root surface and root volume, and higher N assimilation and photosynthesis capacity than the N‐inefficient genotype (D2‐1). Genomic analysis revealed that D4‐15 had a greater genome diversity related to NUE than D2‐1. By combining genomic and transcriptomic analysis, genes involved in photosynthesis and C/N metabolism were implicated in conferring NUE. Co‐expression network analysis of genes that differed between the two genotypes suggested gene clusters impacting NUE. A nitrate transporter gene BnaA06g04560D (NRT2.1) and two vacuole nitrate transporter CLC genes (BnaA02g11800D and BnaA02g28670D) were up‐regulated by N starvation in D4‐15 but not in D2‐1. The study revealed that high N uptake and utilization efficiencies, maintained photosynthesis and coordinated C/N metabolism confer high NUE in B. napus, and identified candidate genes that could facilitate breeding for enhanced NUE in B. napus.
Mid‐infrared spectroscopy is a fast screening method for selecting Arabidopsis genotypes with altered leaf cuticular wax
Authors: Liu Na , Zhao Lifang , Tang Lily , Stobbs Jarvis , Parkin Isobel , Kunst Ljerka , Karunakaran Chithra 
Published: November 2019

AbstractArabidopsis eceriferum (cer) mutants with unique alterations in their rosette leaf cuticular wax accumulation and composition established by gas chromatography have been investigated using attenuated total reflection (ATR)‐Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy in combination with univariate and multivariate analysis. Objectives of this study were to evaluate the utility of ATR‐FTIR for detection of chemical diversity in leaf cuticles, obtain spectral profiles of cer mutants in comparison with the wild type, and identify changes in leaf cuticles caused by drought stress. FTIR spectra revealed both genotype‐ and treatment‐dependent differences in the chemical make‐up of Arabidopsis leaf cuticles. Drought stress caused specific changes in the integrated area of the CH3 peak, asymmetrical and symmetrical CH2 peaks, ester carbonyl peak and the peak area ratio of ester CO to CH2 asymmetrical vibration. CH3 peak positively correlated with the total wax accumulation. Thus, ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy is a valuable tool that can advance our understanding of the role of cuticle chemistry in plant response to drought and allow selection of superior drought‐tolerant varieties from large genetic resources.
Decitabine limits escape from MEK inhibition in uveal melanoma
Authors: Gonçalves Jessica , Emmons Michael F. , Faião‐Flores Fernanda , Aplin Andrew E. , Harbour J. William , Licht Jonathan D. , Wink Márcia R. , Smalley Keiran S. M. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractMEK inhibitors (MEKi) demonstrate anti‐proliferative activity in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma, but responses are short‐lived. In the present study, we evaluated the MEKi trametinib alone and in combination with drugs targeting epigenetic regulators, including DOT1L, EZH2, LSD1, DNA methyltransferases, and histone acetyltransferases. The DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (DNMTi) decitabine effectively enhanced the anti‐proliferative activity of trametinib in cell viability, colony formation, and 3D organoid assays. RNA‐Seq analysis showed the MEKi‐DNMTi combination primarily affected the expression of genes involved in G1 and G2/2M checkpoints, cell survival, chromosome segregation and mitotic spindle. The DNMTi‐MEKi combination did not appear to induce a DNA damage response (as measured by γH2AX foci) or senescence (as measured by β‐galactosidase staining) compared to either MEKi or DNMTi alone. Instead, the combination increased expression of the CDK inhibitor p21 and the pro‐apoptotic protein BIM. In vivo, the DNMTi‐MEKi combination was more effective at suppressing growth of MP41 uveal melanoma xenografts than either drug alone. Our studies indicate that DNMTi may enhance the activity of MEKi in uveal melanoma.
Characteristics of socially high‐risk pregnant women and children's outcomes
Authors: Sakai Sayaka , Nagamitsu Shinichiro , Koga Hidenobu , Kanda Hiroshi , Okamatsu Yuki , Yamagata Zentaro , Yamashita Yushiro 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe number of reports of child abuse and neglect in Japan has increased each year. A causal relationship between socially high‐risk pregnant women and child abuse is strongly suggested. This study aims to investigate the characteristics of socially high‐risk pregnant women and their children's outcomes, to help prevent child abuse.MethodsIn total, 2,342 births were retrospectively analyzed from medical records. We extracted the frequency, factors, and circumstances of socially high‐risk pregnant women, and the presence of social interventions for their children.ResultsThere were 538 (23%) socially high‐risk pregnant women out of 2,342 cases investigated. Related factors (with duplication) were: economic problems (258 cases, 48%), mental disorders (139 cases, 26%), teenage pregnancies (112 cases, 21%), multiple pregnancies (90 cases, 17%), and pregnancy conflict (73 cases, 14%). Sixty‐four (12%) expectant mothers received their first health examination in late pregnancy or were not receiving pregnancy health examinations. An analysis of births showed neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization in 40% of the children born to socially high‐risk pregnant women. The hospital Child Abuse Prevention Committee intervened in 71 cases, and child consultation centers intervened in 55 cases. Twenty‐two children entered social care facilities and four children died of unknown causes.ConclusionsSocially high‐risk pregnant women had various social and individual problems, and received multidisciplinary interventions for child rearing support. Antenatal assessment and multidisciplinary early intervention for socially high‐risk pregnant women are necessary to prevent child abuse.
Prognostic value of urinary TGF‐β1 in hemolytic uremic syndrome: A pilot study
Authors: Balestracci Alejandro , Roy Adriana Haydeé , Caletti María Gracia 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundTransforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) is the main profibrotic cytokine. Its urinary excretion reflects intrarenal production; thus, we conjectured that it is elevated during hemolytic uremic syndrome related to Shiga‐toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC‐HUS). In this pilot study, we explored the ability of baseline TGF‐β1 excretion (exposure variable) to predict renal prognosis at 6 months (outcome variable). In a secondary investigation, we compared changes in cytokine levels during the study period between patients with opposite renal outcomes.MethodsUrinary TGF‐β1 concentrations were measured prospectively in 24 children with STEC‐HUS on admission, and at 15, 30, 60, 90, and 180 days. Normal values were obtained from 20 healthy subjects.ResultsBaseline TGF‐β1 concentrations predicted renal outcomes with an area under the curve of 1 (95%CI 0.85–1; sensitivity 100%, specificity 100%) with the best cutoff level >293.7 pg/mg uCr. All patients with high TGF‐β1 levels developed persistent renal impairment, unlike none with low concentrations (4/4 vs. 20/0 respectively, P = 0.0001). The latter had higher cytokine levels (P < 0.05) at each time point without reaching normal concentrations (<45 pg/mg uCr).ConclusionsBaseline urinary TGF‐β1 levels accurately predicted short‐term renal outcomes in STEC‐HUS children, and cytokine excretion during the first 6 months after diagnosis was higher among those with worse evolution. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings.
Brassinosteroids are involved in ethylene‐induced Pst DC3000 resistance in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Xiong J. , He R. , Yang F. , Zou L. , Yi K. , Lin H. , Zhang D. 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Plant immunity is regulated by a huge phytohormone regulation network. Ethylene(ET) and brassinosteroids (BRs) play critical roles in plant response to biotic stress; however, the relationship between BR and ET in plant immunity is unclear.

We used chemical treatments, genetic approaches and inoculation experiments to investigate the relationship between ET and BR in plant defense against Pst DC3000 in Nicotiana benthamiana.

Foliar applications of ET and BR enhanced plant resistance to Pst DC3000 inoculation, while treatment with brassinazole (BRZ, a specific BR biosynthesis inhibitor) eliminated the ET induced plant resistance to Pst DC3000. Silencing of DWARF 4(DWF4, a key BR biosynthetic gene), BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1 (BRI1, aBR receptor) and BRASSINOSTEROID-SIGNALING KINASE 1 (BSK1, downstream of BRI1) also neutralised the ET‐induced plant resistance to Pst DC3000. ET can induce callose deposition and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation to resistPst DC3000, BRZ‐treated and gene‐silenced were completely eliminate this response.

Our results suggest BR is involved in ET‐induced plant resistance, the involvement of ET in plant resistance is possibly by the induction of callose deposition and ROS accumulation, in a BR‐dependent manner.
Population structure and host range of the potato late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans in Peru spanning two decades
Authors: Lindqvist‐Kreuze H. , Gamboa S. , Izarra M. , Pérez W. , Correa M. Y. , Astete A. , Särkinen T. , Cueva M. , Gonzáles P. 
Published: November 2019

The genetic diversity of the late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans infecting cultivated potato and alternative hosts growing in the vicinity of fields in the main potato‐growing areas of the Peruvian Andes was characterized using collections from 1997–2013 as reference. The Peruvian P. infestans population, including previously collected and current isolates, consists of four clonal lineages (EC‐1, US‐1, PE‐3 and PE‐7) that belong to the A1 mating type and have been present in the country for decades. The first report of US‐1 was in isolates collected between 1982 and 1986; meanwhile, EC‐1 and PE‐3 appeared for the first time in isolates from 1992 and PE‐7 was found in 1997. The pathogen has a very broad host range among the solanaceous plants infecting cultivated potato, tomato, pear melon and several wild species. The solanaceous species growing in the vicinity of the potato fields sampled were identified and surveyed for late blight‐like symptoms. Phytophthora infestans was isolated from nine wild species, including three new host species: Solanum zahlbruckneri, Solanum grandidentatum and Iochroma grandiflorum. There was no clear host specialization, but geographical substructuring was found as well as changes in the pathogen populations at the regional level. The clonal lineage EC‐1, which is mostly resistant to metalaxyl, has complex virulence and contains a high level of subclonal variation, continues to dominate the population. Some multilocus genotypes of the EC‐1 lineage were sampled in high frequencies and were found among the previously collected and new samples.
Identification of sperm‐specific proteins associated with high fertility of Punjab Red and RIR x Local cross roosters with SDS‐PAGE and Immunoblotting
Authors: Mavi Gurjot Kaur , Dubey Prem P. , Cheema Ranjna S. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe present study aimed at characterization of fertility‐associated proteins in PR and RIR x Local roosters and was conducted on two generations of birds. Roosters were divided into high‐ (>50%) and low‐fertility groups (<50%) based on sperm function tests and fertility rate in both the generations. Polyclonal antibodies were raised in rabbits against sperm proteins of first generation highly fertile roosters and tested for characterization of fertility‐associated sperm proteins in the second generation of same roosters. IgG fraction against proteins (anti‐SP IgG) was reacted with sperm proteins of both high and low fertile roosters of second generation on immunoblots. SDS‐PAGE of sperm extracts of PR and RIR x Local cross breeds resulted in resolution of 12 and 23 proteins on 12% acrylamide gels and anti‐SP IgG reacted only with 8 and 9 sperm proteins of PR and RIR x Local cross roosters on immunoblots. The SDS‐PAGE and immunoblotting analysis also indicated a variation in sperm proteins among two breeds and high/low fertile roosters. It can be concluded that the selection of roosters on the based on proteins of 65/ 25; 70/ 46/ 30 kDa may be specifically associated with high fertility of PR and RIR x Local cross, respectively. The proteins 62 kDa (PR) and 40kDa (RIR x Local cross) may be specifically responsible for low fertility.
Resettlement challenges and dilemmas: An in‐depth case study of Bhutanese refugee women in Australia
Authors: Parajuli Jamuna , Horey Dell , Avgoulas Maria‐Irini 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIn this paper, the perceptions of Bhutanese refugee women were explored in relation to their changing identity and their behavioural responses in the use of preventive health services following resettlement. Interviews with 30 Bhutanese refugee women in Melbourne revealed resettlement drivers, challenges and dilemmas. There was no option for women other than resettlement, women wanted to escape from bad conditions and hopes for a better future for their children was critical in their thinking. Resettlement introduced new unexpected challenges including cultural discontinuity, changed dependency and a sense of not belonging. Dilemmas were apparent in their experiences including: despondency and contentment, gratitude and regret; and identifying as either Australian or refugee. Motherhood was important to women in this study and was challenged by changed dependency with their children in resettlement. Challenges of cultural discontinuity included the impact of communication difficulties and illiteracy and the absence of social connections with neighbours. A better understanding of how changing identities of women interact should lead to more effective strategies including tailored programs and activities.
Impact of diagnostic methods on efficacy estimation – a proof‐of‐principle based on historical examples
Authors: Hahn Andreas , Meyer Christian G. , Frickmann Hagen 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIntroductionAccurate diagnostic methods are essential for evaluating treatment efficacy in clinical trials, including vaccine trials. Although a plethora of studies assessing novel or modified treatment options is available, clinical trials evaluating the sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic methods in compliance with the demands of drug registration trials are scarce. We assessed the accuracy of diagnostic methods in two vaccine trials conducted in 1995 and 2009 to demonstrate the impact of sensitivity and specificity on efficacy estimations.MethodsWe applied the sensitivity‐ and specificity‐adjusted vaccine efficacy estimator of Lachenbruch for modelling the impact of test characteristics on the outcome of the two vaccine trials by varying diagnostic specificity.ResultsBecause of non‐ideal diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, the estimation of vaccine efficacy is compromised. We demonstrate the impact of diagnostic accuracy on efficacy estimations with increasing confidence limits.ConclusionsBecause sensitivity and specificity less than one have a direct impact on efficacy estimations in clinical trials, evaluation of diagnostic methods should lead to a level of evidence comparable with the efficacy assessment of novel treatment options. Furthermore, statistical methods adjusted for sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic methods should be applied for efficacy estimations, or this lack of confidence has to be taken into account when interpreting the results of trials.
Strongyloidiasis screening in migrants living in Spain: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Salvador Fernando , Treviño Begoña , Bosch‐Nicolau Pau , Serre‐Delcor Núria , Sánchez‐Montalvá Adrián , Oliveira Inés , Sulleiro Elena , Aznar Mª Luisa , Pou Diana , Sao‐Avilés Augusto , Molina Israel 
Published: November 2019

AbstractObjectivesTo provide information regarding the prevalence of strongyloidiasis among migrants coming fromStrongyloides stercoralis‐endemic areas who reside in Spain.MethodsSystematic review of the literature and meta‐analysis of studies showing prevalence ofS. stercoralisinfection among migrants from Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia and Oceania who reside in Spain. We included articles published until 30 April 2019 without language restriction. The keywords used for the search included ‘Strongyloides stercoralis’, ‘strongyloidiasis’, ‘Spain’, ‘screening’ and ‘migrants’.ResultsTwenty‐four studies were included in the review and meta‐analysis, comprising 12 386 screened people. Eleven studies (7020 patients) evaluated the presence ofS. stercoralisinfection only through investigation of larvae in faeces, showing an overall prevalence of 1% (95%CI 1–1%). Thirteen studies (5366 patients) used a serological test, showing an overall prevalence of 14% (95%CI 11–17%). Strongyloidiasis seroprevalence was 20% (95%CI 15–24%) among migrants from sub‐Saharan Africa, 14% (95%CI 10–18%) among those from Latin America and 8% (95%CI 5–11%) among migrants from North Africa.ConclusionsMigrants coming from strongyloidiasis‐endemic areas living in Spain had a highS. stercoralisinfection prevalence, particularly those from sub‐Saharan Africa and Latin America. This population should be screened using serology as the most sensitive test forS. stercoralisinfection. This could be easily implemented at primary care level.