Fecal Deployment: An Alternative Way of Defensive Host Plant Cardenolide Use by Lilioceris merdigera Larvae

The brilliant red Lilioceris merdigera (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) can spend its entire life cycle on the cardenolide-containing plant Convallaria majalis (lily of the valley) and forms stable populations on this host. Yet, in contrast to many other insects on cardenolide-containing plants L. merdigera does not sequester these plant toxins in the body but rather both adult beetles and larvae eliminate ingested cardenolides with the feces. Tracer feeding experiments showed that this holds true for radioactively labeled ouabain and digoxin, a highly polar and a rather apolar cardenolide. Both compounds or their derivatives are incorporated in the fecal shields of the larvae. The apolar digoxin, but not the polar ouabain, showed a deterrent effect on the generalist predatory ant Myrmica rubra, which occurs in the habitat of L. merdigera. The deterrent effect was detected for digoxin both in choice and feeding time assays. In a predator choice assay, a fecal shield derived from a diet of cardenolide-containing C. majalis offered L. merdigera larvae better protection from M. rubra than one derived from non-cardenolide Allium schoenoprasum (chives) or no fecal shield at all. Thus, we here present data suggesting a new way how insects may gain protection by feeding on cardenolide-containing plants.

Application of an Ultra-Low-Cost Passive Sampler for Light-Absorbing Carbon in Mongolia

Low-cost, long-term measures of air pollution concentrations are often needed for epidemiological studies and policy analyses of household air pollution. The Washington passive sampler (WPS), an ultra-low-cost method for measuring the long-term average levels of light-absorbing carbon (LAC) air pollution, uses digital images to measure the changes in the reflectance of a passively exposed paper filter. A prior publication on WPS reported high precision and reproducibility. Here, we deployed three methods to each of 10 households in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia: one PurpleAir for PM2.5; two ultrasonic personal aerosol samplers (UPAS) with quartz filters for the thermal-optical analysis of elemental carbon (EC); and two WPS for LAC. We compared multiple rounds of 4-week-average measurements. The analyses calibrating the LAC to the elemental carbon measurement suggest that 1 µg of EC/m3 corresponds to 62 PI/month (R2 = 0.83). The EC-LAC calibration curve indicates an accuracy (root-mean-square error) of 3.1 µg of EC/m3, or ~21% of the average elemental carbon concentration. The RMSE values observed here for the WPS are comparable to the reported accuracy levels for other methods, including reference methods. Based on the precision and accuracy results shown here, as well as the increased simplicity of deployment, the WPS may merit further consideration for studying air quality in homes that use solid fuels.

Global adoption of single-shot targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) for breast cancer—better for patients, better for healthcare systems

Micro abstract

Targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) is delivered immediately after lumpectomy for breast cancer. We estimated its impact. At least 44,752 patients with breast cancer were treated with TARGIT-IORT in 260 centres in 35 countries, saving >20 million miles of travel and preventing ~2,000 non–breast cancer deaths. The TARGIT-IORT website (https://targit.org.uk/travel) provides maps and tools to find the nearest centre offering TARGIT-IORT and travel savings.

Background

Targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) delivers radiotherapy targeted to the fresh tumour bed exposed immediately after lumpectomy for breast cancer. TARGIT-A trial found TARGIT-IORT to be as effective as whole-breast radiotherapy, with significantly fewer deaths from non–breast cancer causes. This paper documents its worldwide impact and provides interactive tools for clinicians and patients.

Method

Centres using TARGIT-IORT provided the date of the first case and the total number of patients. We plotted these data on a customised Google Map. An interactive web-based tool provided directions to the closest centre. Using the data from the TARGIT-A trial, we estimated the total savings in travel miles, carbon footprint, and the number of non–breast cancer deaths that might be prevented.

Results

Data from 242 (93%) of the 260 centres treating patients from 35 countries were available. From the first patient treated in 1998 to early 2020, at least 44,752 women with breast cancer have been treated with TARGIT-IORT. The TARGIT-IORT website (https://targit.org.uk/travel) displays the Google Map of centres with number of cases and an interactive tool for patients to find the nearest centre offering TARGIT-IORT and their travel savings. Scaling up to the already treated patients, >20 million miles of travel would have been saved and about 2,000 deaths prevented.

Conclusion

One can ascertain the number of patients treated with a novel treatment. These data show how widely TARGIT-IORT has now been adopted and gives an indication of its beneficial worldwide impact on a large number of women with breast cancer.

P-634 Safety of ART cycles with extremely high estradiol levels - A retrospective cohort study

Study question

Are IVF treatments with extremely high peak estradiol levels during ovarian hyperstimulation associated with higher complication rates?

Summary answer

Extremely high estradiol levels were not associated with higher major complication rates, but patients were more likely to seek medical care following retrieval.

What is known already

The freeze-all policy and the increasing popularity of social oocyte freezing, have led to an increase in gonadotropin doses and number of oocytes retrieved and, as a direct effect, higher estradiol levels. Studies reporting major ART complications (OHSS, bleeding, infection, torsion, thromboembolic events) are based on heterogeneous patient populations without stratification by oocyte number or estradiol levels, except for a single study reporting an association between peak estradiol levels and the risk of ovarian torsion. Extreme estradiol levels, are associated with larger ovaries, repeated ovarian punctures, and possibly a thrombogenic effect. Therefore, higher complication rates can be expected.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective cohort study including patients from two large medical centers treated between 2019-2021.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

A study group (239 patients) with extremely high peak estradiol levels (>20,000 pmol/L on the day of ovulation induction, or > 15,000 pmol/L on the previous day) and a control group (208 patients) with normal range estradiol levels (3000-12000pmol/L), treated at two large units were included. Patients were surveyed about complaints and medical care related to ovum pick up (OPU), and medical files were reviewed. Complication rates and the need for medical assistance were compared.

Main results and the role of chance

Several differences between the study and control group were observed as a consequence of the study design: Mean age was 33.01±5.14 vs. 34.57±4.52 (p = 0.01), Mean peak estradiol levels was 26645.34±8592.56 vs.7229.750±2329.20 (p < 0.001), mean number of oocytes were 27.55±13.46 vs. 11.63±5.77 (p < 0.001) for the study and control group respectivly. More patients in the control group underwent fertility preservation. Mean FSH levels and total gonadotropin dosage were higher in the control group. Major complications [3 (1.25%) in the study group vs. 1 (0.96%) in the control group] were similar between groups (p = 0.62). In the study group Two patients were diagnosed with ovarian torsion (0.83%), and one (0.41%) with early severe OHSS as a result of a positive BhCG related to an undiagnosed pregnancy prior to OPU. All three were admitted (1.25%). In the control group one patient was diagnosed with PID requiring inpatient IV antibiotic treatment (0.48%). One more patient was admitted with severe abdominal pain following OPU, for a total of 2 admissions (0.96%) (p = 1). 33 patients (13.8%) in the study group and 10 (4.8%) in the control group sought medical care after OPU, mostly due to abdominal pain, without further workup or hospitalization (p = 0.001).

Limitations, reasons for caution

A retrospective study with possible recall bias. Major adverse events are rare in IVF and may not be fully captured in the study population.

Wider implications of the findings

Based on our results, extremely high estradiol levels during ovarian hyperstimulation were not associated with thromboembolic events, higher major complication or hospitalization rates, thus may be considered safe. Nevertheless, patients may be informed of possible higher rates of discomfort, mostly abdominal pain. Larger studies are warranted to confirm our results.

Trial registration number

0090-21-ASF

P-710 COVID-19 Vaccination and Infertility Treatment Outcomes

Study question

Is there an influence of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine on ovarian response and in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment outcomes?

Summary answer

COVID-19 mRNA vaccine did not affect the ovarian response nor pregnancy rates in IVF treatment

What is known already

Studies demonstrated that infection with COVID-19 during pregnancy increased the risk of the development of severe disease and pregnancy complications.

A recent meta-analysis of international data showed a declining tendency to be vaccinated, possibly influenced by public concerns over safety of the vaccines. Specifically, concerns were raised about a possible detrimental effect on fertility and pregnancy outcomes due to similarity between syncytin-1, a human placental fusion protein, and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein expressed after administration of the COVID-19 vaccine.

To date, only one retrospective analysis on 36 infertility patients has assessed the influence of COVID-19 vaccination on IVF treatment outcomes.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective cohort study . The study included a total of 400 patients, 200 vaccinated women and 200 age matched non-vaccinated women, undergoing IVF treatments during January-April 2021.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

All vaccinated women aged 20-42 that underwent IVF treatment cycles between January 1, 2021 and April 31 2021 were included. All participants completed two doses of the BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccine at least two weeks before starting ovarian stimulation. The study group was matched by age to non-vaccinated patients that underwent IVF treatments during the same period. Patients with a positive COVID 19 test in the past were excluded.

Main results and the role of chance

Two hundred patients underwent oocyte retrieval 14-68 days after receiving COVID-19 vaccination. No difference was found between vaccinated and non-vaccinated patients in mean number of oocytes retrieved per cycle (10.63 vs 10.72, p = 0.93). Among 128 vaccinated patients and 133 non-vaccinated patients that underwent fresh embryos transfers, no difference was demonstrated in clinical pregnancy rates (32.8% vs. 33.1%, p-value=0.96), 42 and 44 pregnancies respectively. The fertilization rates and mean number of cryopreserved embryos were similar between the two groups in freeze all cycles (55.43% vs. 54.29%, p-value=0.73), (3.59 vs. 3.28, p-value=0.80). Among vaccinated patients and non-vaccinated patients that underwent fresh embryos transfers, no difference was demonstrated in the fertilization rate (64.81% vs. 61.98%, p = 0.51), and transferred embryos quality. Regression models applied demonstrated no effect of the vaccine on oocyte yields and pregnancy rates.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Limitations include retrospective nature and different treatment protocols.

Additional limitation is the lack of information about vaccination status of the partners. One would assume that if unbalanced, the proportion of vaccinated males would be higher in the study group as partners tend to choose similarly in regard to vaccine administration.

Wider implications of the findings

Women should consider vaccination prior to their attempts to conceive via IVF treatments.

Trial registration number

ASF-0094-21

O-140 The impact of past COVID-19 infection on pregnancy rates in frozen embryo transfer cycles

Study question

What is the effect of COVID-19 infection on pregnancy rates in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles?

Summary answer

Past COVID-19 infection decreased pregnancy rates in FET cycles, especially in patients with recent infection.

What is known already

ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are expressed in the endometrium, potentially enabling SARS-COV-2 viral invasion of the cells. Unlike with bacterial infections, the effect of viral infections in general on implantation and pregnancy rates is unclear. Some evidence suggests that early embryonic and trophoblastic infection, may result in impaired implantation or placentation. A recently published study including both recovered and vaccinated patients did not find an effect of COVID-19 immunity on FET cycle outcomes. The study did not stratify by time from infection thus the immediate consequences of infection on pregnancy rates could not be properly evaluated.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective cohort study, including 41 COVID-19 recovered women, aged 20-42 years that underwent FET cycles, and 41 controls between January 1, and June 31, 2021, at a large IVF unit.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Embryos transferred were the product of fresh cycles performed prior to infection. Maximal time from infection to transfer was defined as one year. The study group was matched by age, number of embryos transferred and day of transfer, to unvaccinated patients, with no history of past infection that underwent FET cycles during the same period. Demographics and cycle characteristics were recorded. Clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates were compared, with further stratification by time from infection.

Main results and the role of chance

Clinical pregnancy rates were 29.3% and 48.8% for the recovered and control patients respectively (p = 0.070). Ongoing pregnancy rates were 26.6% vs. 43.4% (p = 0.093). Mean age at ovum pickup (30.72 vs. 30.69; p = 0.929) and at transfer (31.56 vs. 31.58; p = 0.966) was similar between groups, as were the demographic characteristics and previous retrievals and transfers. The predominant transfer protocol used was different between groups with higher rates of natural cycle (NC) protocol in the COVID group (61% vs. 33.3%; p = 0.013. All other cycle characteristics including endometrial width, number of embryos transferred, day of embryo transfer and embryo grade were similar. Stratification by time from COVID-19 infection to transfer into ≤60 and >60 days revealed a significant difference in pregnancy rates, with recovered women having lower pregnancy rates if infected in proximity to the transfer (20.7% vs. 55.2%; p = 0.006). In a logistic regression model, infection was a significant variable (p = 0.05, OR 0.325, 95% CI 0.106-0.998). Logistic regression applied on the subgroup of women infected in proximity to the transfer, further strengthened the univariate results, with COVID-19 infection remaining a significant parameter (p = 0.005, OR 0.072, 95% CI 0.012-0.450).

Limitations, reasons for caution

A retrospective study, with a limited sample size, but nevertheless our results showed significant differences. 

Wider implications of the findings

Further studies with larger groups are warranted to support these findings. Pending further information, in cases of FET cycles with limited numbers of embryos (advanced age, embryo donation, fertility preservation, embryos following sperm extraction), postponing embryo transfer for at least 60 days following recovery might be considered, if feasible.

Trial registration number

HMC-0010-21

O-141 IVF under COVID-19: treatment outcomes of fresh and frozen cycles

Study question

Does prior SARS-CoV-2 infection in women undergoing fertility treatments affect outcomes of fresh ART cycles? 

Summary answer

SARS-CoV-2 infection does not affect fresh ART treatment outcomes. A possible long term negative effect on oocyte yield should be further explored.

What is known already

There is evidence that the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAS) is involved in female reproductive processes such as folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, oocyte maturation and ovulation. The existence of the ACE2 axis and ACE2 markers were confirmed in all stages of follicular maturation in the human ovary, including the granulosa cells and follicular fluid. A single previous study found no evidence that a history of asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection in females caused impairment of fresh ART treatment outcomes. 

Study design, size, duration

Retrospective cohort study, including all SARS-CoV-2 infected women that underwent fresh ART cycles within a year from infection (the first cycle post infection), between October 2020 and June 2021, matched to uninfected controls. 

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Retrospective cohort study, including all SARS-CoV-2 infected women that underwent fresh ART cycles within a year from infection (the first cycle post infection), between October 2020 and June 2021, matched to uninfected controls. 

Main results and the role of chance

121 infected patients and 121 controls that underwent fresh ART cycles were included. Oocyte yield (12.50 vs. 11.29; p = 0.169) and mature oocyte rate (77.71 vs. 81.76; p = 0.144) in all fresh cycles were similar between groups, as werefertilization rates, number of frozen embryos per cycle and clinical pregnancy rates (42.9% vs. 40.4%; p = 0.737) in fresh cycles with an embryo transfer. Stratification by time from COVID-19 infection by time from infection <90 day, 90-180 days and > 180 days revealed similar results with no difference in pregnancy rates. In a logistic regression model, COVID-19 infection did not affect pregnancy rates except for the small subgroup of patients who recovered more than 180 days prior to retrieval with a negative effect on oocyte yield (p = 0.018, Slope=-4.08, 95%CI 95% CI -0.7.41 – -0.75).

Limitations, reasons for caution

A retrospective study with data that was not uniformly generated under a study protocol, no antibody testing for the control group. 

Wider implications of the findings

The study findings suggest that COVID-19 infection does not affect treatment outcomes in fresh ART cycles, except for a possible long term negative effect on oocyte yield when retrieval occurs > 180 days post COVID-19 infection. Further studies are warranted in order to support these findings. 

Trial registration number

HMC-0010-21

Novel Genomic Regions Linked to Ascochyta Blight Resistance in Two Differentially Resistant Cultivars of Chickpea

Ascochyta blight (AB), caused by the fungal pathogen Ascochyta rabiei, is a devastating foliar disease of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). The genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS)-based approach was deployed for mapping QTLs associated with AB resistance in chickpea in two recombinant inbred line populations derived from two crosses (AB₃₂₇₉ derived from ILC 1929 × ILC 3279 and AB₄₈₂ derived from ILC 1929 × ILC 482) and tested in six different environments. Twenty-one different genomic regions linked to AB resistance were identified in regions CalG02 and CalG04 in both populations AB₃₂₇₉ and AB₄₈₂. These regions contain 1,118 SNPs significantly associated with AB resistance (p ≤ 0.001), which explained 11.2-39.3% of the phenotypic variation (PVE). Nine of the AB resistance-associated genomic regions were newly detected in this study, while twelve regions were known from previous AB studies. The proposed physical map narrows down AB resistance to consistent genomic regions identified across different environments. Gene ontology (GO) assigned these QTLs to 319 genes, many of which were associated with stress and disease resistance, and with most important genes belonging to resistance gene families such as leucine-rich repeat (LRR) and transcription factor families. Our results indicate that the flowering-associated gene GIGANTEA is a possible key factor in AB resistance in chickpea. The results have identified AB resistance-associated regions on the physical genetic map of chickpea and allowed for the identification of associated markers that will help in breeding of AB-resistant varieties.

Genetic Dissection of Heat Stress Tolerance in Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Using GWAS

Heat waves are expected to become more frequent and intense, which will impact faba bean cultivation globally. Conventional breeding methods are effective but take considerable time to achieve breeding goals, and, therefore, the identification of molecular markers associated with key genes controlling heat tolerance can facilitate and accelerate efficient variety development. We phenotyped 134 accessions in six open field experiments during summer seasons at Terbol, Lebanon, at Hudeiba, Sudan, and at Central Ferry, WA, USA from 2015 to 2018. These accessions were genotyped using genotyping by sequencing (GBS), and 10,794 high quality single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were discovered. These accessions were clustered in one diverse large group, although several discrete groups may exist surrounding it. Fifteen lines belonging to different botanical groups were identified as tolerant to heat. SNPs associated with heat tolerance using single-trait (ST) and multi-trait (MT) genome-wide association studies (GWASs) showed 9 and 11 significant associations, respectively. Through the annotation of the discovered significant SNPs, we found that SNPs from transcription factor helix-loop-helix bHLH143-like S-adenosylmethionine carrier, putative pentatricopeptide repeat-containing protein At5g08310, protein NLP8-like, and photosystem II reaction center PSB28 proteins are associated with heat tolerance.

New clinical and biological insights from the international TARGIT-A randomised trial of targeted intraoperative radiotherapy during lumpectomy for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The TARGIT-A trial reported risk-adapted targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) during lumpectomy for breast cancer to be as effective as whole-breast external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). Here, we present further detailed analyses.

METHODS

In total, 2298 women (≥45 years, invasive ductal carcinoma ≤3.5 cm, cN0-N1) were randomised. We investigated the impact of tumour size, grade, ER, PgR, HER2 and lymph node status on local recurrence-free survival, and of local recurrence on distant relapse and mortality. We analysed the predictive factors for recommending supplemental EBRT after TARGIT-IORT as part of the risk-adapted approach, using regression modelling. Non-breast cancer mortality was compared between TARGIT-IORT plus EBRT vs. EBRT.

RESULTS

Local recurrence-free survival was no different between TARGIT-IORT and EBRT, in every tumour subgroup. Unlike in the EBRT arm, local recurrence in the TARGIT-IORT arm was not a predictor of a higher risk of distant relapse or death. Our new predictive tool for recommending supplemental EBRT after TARGIT-IORT is at https://targit.org.uk/addrt . Non-breast cancer mortality was significantly lower in the TARGIT-IORT arm, even when patients received supplemental EBRT, HR 0.38 (95% CI 0.17-0.88) P = 0.0091.

CONCLUSION

TARGIT-IORT is as effective as EBRT in all subgroups. Local recurrence after TARGIT-IORT, unlike after EBRT, has a good prognosis. TARGIT-IORT might have a beneficial abscopal effect.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN34086741 (21/7/2004), NCT00983684 (24/9/2009).

Institutional and farm-level challenges limiting the diffusion of new varieties from public and CGIAR centers: The case of wheat in Morocco

Low adoption of agricultural technologies slows efforts to increase agricultural productivity and enhance rural livelihoods in developing countries. A large body of literature has sought explanations for the problem, but the focus has been mainly on micro-level farm and community factors affecting adoption. Institutional factors such as policies and market conditions, which are also important, have been largely overlooked and, few, if any, studies combine the two levels of analysis. We use Morocco as a case study to analyze institutional and farm-level factors affecting diffusion and adoption of improved wheat varieties. Results show both sides to be important. Institutional factors such as overly stringent variety testing procedures, imbalance of power among actors in the seed sector and ill-conceived variety licensing contracts limit access to seeds of more recently released varieties. Adoption of older new varieties is found to be affected by farm and farmer characteristics, but imperfect access to new seeds, sometimes associated with the failings identified above, is also a constraint. Findings signal the need for increased private engagement in seed multiplication; revised variety testing procedures; alternative royalty mechanisms; and enhanced linkages between public research and private seed companies.

Lower Extremity Compartment Syndrome in National Football League Athletes

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of lower extremity compartment syndrome in National Football League (NFL) athletes and report the mechanisms of injury, methods of treatment, and subsequent days missed. We review the existing literature on lower extremity compartment syndrome in athletic populations.

HYPOTHESIS

Lower extremity compartment syndrome occurs with a low incidence in NFL athletes, and there is a high return-to-play rate after surgical management of acute compartment syndrome.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4.

METHODS

A retrospective review of recorded cases of lower extremity compartment syndrome from 2000 to 2017 was performed using the NFL Injury Surveillance System and electronic medical record system. Epidemiological data, injury mechanism, rates of surgery, and days missed due to injury were recorded.

RESULTS

During the study period, 22 cases of leg compartment syndrome in 21 athletes were recorded. Of these injuries, 50% occurred in games and 73% were the result of a direct impact to the leg. Concomitant tibial fracture was noted in only 2 cases (9.1%) and there was only 1 reported case of chronic exertional compartment syndrome. Surgery was documented in 15 of 22 cases (68.2%). For acute nonfracture cases, the average time missed due to injury was 24.2 days (range, 5-54 days), and all were able to return to full participation within the same season.

CONCLUSION

NFL athletes with acute leg compartment syndrome treated with surgery exhibited a high rate of return to play within the same season.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Although compartment syndrome is a relatively rare diagnosis among NFL players, team physicians and athletic trainers must maintain a high index of suspicion to expediently diagnose and treat this potentially limb-threatening condition.

Clinical practice to address tamoxifen nonadherence

The primary and secondary benefits of tamoxifen as adjuvant therapy in women with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer are substantial: a 1% decrease in the risk of death each year for 10 years with each additional year of treatment during the first 5 years. Considerable data, however, indicate that these benefits are lost to many patients because of treatment nonadherence. Nonadherence is examined within the framework of the Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation to describe patients' models of disease and treatment that organize their thinking and behavior, and the crucial role of the practitioner in addressing and altering these models. Common patient education and social communications about patients' hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer and tamoxifen treatment promote an acute disease paradigm in which cancer occurs within specific locations and is either present or absent. We recommend that clinicians communicate the concepts of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer as follows: i. a non-dichotomous systemic disorder entailing a treatment goal of homeostasis and disease quiescence and ii. a disorder undetectable by currently available tests in subclinical states. Equally important, the clinician can provide a comprehensive picture of the well-documented secondary effects of tamoxifen, noting in particular the beneficial effects. Specific action plans, grounded in individual patient understanding, can be developed and reinforced, in an ongoing process that validates and integrates patient values and goals as they change over time.

ABCB transporters in a leaf beetle respond to sequestered plant toxins

Phytophagous insects can tolerate and detoxify toxic compounds present in their host plants and have evolved intricate adaptations to this end. Some insects even sequester the toxins for their defence. This necessitates specific mechanisms, especially carrier proteins that regulate uptake and transport to specific storage sites or protect sensitive tissues from noxious compounds. We identified three ATP-binding cassette subfamily B (ABCB) transporters from the transcriptome of the cardenolide-sequestering leaf beetle Chrysochus auratus and analysed their functional role in the sequestration process. These were heterologously expressed and tested for their ability to interact with various potential substrates: verapamil (standard ABCB substrate), the cardenolides digoxin (commonly used), cymarin (present in the species's host plant) and calotropin (present in the ancestral host plants). Verapamil stimulated all three ABCBs and each was activated by at least one cardenolide, however, they differed as to which they were activated by. While the expression of the most versatile transporter fits with a protective role in the blood-brain barrier, the one specific for cymarin shows an extreme abundance in the elytra, coinciding with the location of the defensive glands. Our data thus suggest a key role of ABCBs in the transport network needed for cardenolide sequestration.

Long term survival and local control outcomes from single dose targeted intraoperative radiotherapy during lumpectomy (TARGIT-IORT) for early breast cancer: TARGIT-A randomised clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether risk adapted intraoperative radiotherapy, delivered as a single dose during lumpectomy, can effectively replace postoperative whole breast external beam radiotherapy for early breast cancer.

DESIGN

Prospective, open label, randomised controlled clinical trial.

SETTING

32 centres in 10 countries in the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, the United States, and Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

2298 women aged 45 years and older with invasive ductal carcinoma up to 3.5 cm in size, cN0-N1, eligible for breast conservation and randomised before lumpectomy (1:1 ratio, blocks stratified by centre) to either risk adapted targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) or external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

INTERVENTIONS

Random allocation was to the EBRT arm, which consisted of a standard daily fractionated course (three to six weeks) of whole breast radiotherapy, or the TARGIT-IORT arm. TARGIT-IORT was given immediately after lumpectomy under the same anaesthetic and was the only radiotherapy for most patients (around 80%). TARGIT-IORT was supplemented by EBRT when postoperative histopathology found unsuspected higher risk factors (around 20% of patients).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Non-inferiority with a margin of 2.5% for the absolute difference between the five year local recurrence rates of the two arms, and long term survival outcomes.

RESULTS

Between 24 March 2000 and 25 June 2012, 1140 patients were randomised to TARGIT-IORT and 1158 to EBRT. TARGIT-IORT was non-inferior to EBRT: the local recurrence risk at five year complete follow-up was 2.11% for TARGIT-IORT compared with 0.95% for EBRT (difference 1.16%, 90% confidence interval 0.32 to 1.99). In the first five years, 13 additional local recurrences were reported (24/1140 v 11/1158) but 14 fewer deaths (42/1140 v 56/1158) for TARGIT-IORT compared with EBRT. With long term follow-up (median 8.6 years, maximum 18.90 years, interquartile range 7.0-10.6) no statistically significant difference was found for local recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.91 to 1.41, P=0.28), mastectomy-free survival (0.96, 0.78 to 1.19, P=0.74), distant disease-free survival (0.88, 0.69 to 1.12, P=0.30), overall survival (0.82, 0.63 to 1.05, P=0.13), and breast cancer mortality (1.12, 0.78 to 1.60, P=0.54). Mortality from other causes was significantly lower (0.59, 0.40 to 0.86, P=0.005).

CONCLUSION

For patients with early breast cancer who met our trial selection criteria, risk adapted immediate single dose TARGIT-IORT during lumpectomy was an effective alternative to EBRT, with comparable long term efficacy for cancer control and lower non-breast cancer mortality. TARGIT-IORT should be discussed with eligible patients when breast conserving surgery is planned.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN34086741, NCT00983684.

Effect of Delayed Targeted Intraoperative Radiotherapy vs Whole-Breast Radiotherapy on Local Recurrence and Survival: Long-term Results From the TARGIT-A Randomized Clinical Trial in Early Breast Cancer

Importance

Conventional adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer given daily for several weeks is onerous and expensive. Some patients may be obliged to choose a mastectomy instead, and some may forgo radiotherapy altogether. We proposed a clinical trial to test whether radiotherapy could be safely limited to the tumor bed.

Objective

To determine whether delayed second-procedure targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) is noninferior to whole-breast external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) in terms of local control.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this prospective, randomized (1:1 ratio) noninferiority trial, 1153 patients aged 45 years or older with invasive ductal breast carcinoma smaller than 3.5 cm treated with breast conservation were enrolled from 28 centers in 9 countries. Data were locked in on July 3, 2019.

Interventions

The TARGIT-A trial was started in March 2000; patients were randomized after needle biopsy to receive TARGIT-IORT immediately after lumpectomy under the same anesthetic vs EBRT and results have been shown to be noninferior. A parallel study, described in this article, was initiated in 2004; patients who had their cancer excised were randomly allocated using separate randomization tables to receive EBRT or delayed TARGIT-IORT given as a second procedure by reopening the lumpectomy wound.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A noninferiority margin for local recurrence rate of 2.5% at 5 years, and long-term survival outcomes.

Results

Overall, 581 women (mean [SD] age, 63 [7] years) were randomized to delayed TARGIT-IORT and 572 patients (mean [SD] age, 63 [8] years) were randomized to EBRT. Sixty patients (5%) had tumors larger than 2 cm, or had positive nodes and only 32 (2.7%) were younger than 50 years. Delayed TARGIT-IORT was not noninferior to EBRT. The local recurrence rates at 5-year complete follow-up were: delayed TARGIT-IORT vs EBRT (23/581 [3.96%] vs 6/572 [1.05%], respectively; difference, 2.91%; upper 90% CI, 4.4%). With long-term follow-up (median [IQR], 9.0 [7.5-10.5] years), there was no statistically significant difference in local recurrence-free survival (HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.57-1.003; P = .052), mastectomy-free survival (HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.65-1.18; P = .38), distant disease-free survival (HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.72-1.39; P = .98), or overall survival (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.68-1.35; P = .80).

Conclusions and Relevance

These long-term data show that despite an increase in the number of local recurrences with delayed TARGIT-IORT, there was no statistically significant decrease in mastectomy-free survival, distant disease-free survival, or overall survival.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN34086741, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00983684.

Developing a Low-Cost Passive Method for Long-Term Average Levels of Light-Absorbing Carbon Air Pollution in Polluted Indoor Environments

We propose a low-cost passive method for monitoring long-term average levels of light-absorbing carbon air pollution in polluted indoor environments. Building on prior work, the method here estimates the change in reflectance of a passively exposed surface through analysis of digital images. To determine reproducibility and limits of detection, we tested low-cost passive samplers with exposure to kerosene smoke in the laboratory and to environmental pollution in 20 indoor locations. Preliminary results suggest robust reproducibility (r = 0.99) and limits of detection appropriate for longer-term (~1-3 months) monitoring in households that use solid fuels. The results here suggest high precision; further testing involving "gold standard" measurements is needed to investigate accuracy.

Breast cancer and the black swan

Most current research in cancer is attempting to find ways of preventing patients from dying after metastatic relapse. Driven by data and analysis, this project is an approach to solve the problem upstream, i.e., to prevent relapse. This project started with the unexpected observation of bimodal relapse patterns in breast and a number of other cancers. This was not explainable with the current cancer paradigm that has guided cancer therapy and early detection for many years. After much analysis using computer simulation and input from a number of medical specialties, we eventually came to the conclusion that the surgery to remove the primary tumour produced systemic inflammation for a week after surgery. This systemic inflammation apparently caused exits of cancer cells and micrometastases from dormant states and resulted in relapses in the first 3 years post-surgery. It was determined in a retrospective study that the common inexpensive perioperative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ketorolac could curtail the early relapse events after breast cancer surgery. A second retrospective study strongly confirmed this but an apparently underpowered prospective study showed no advantage. We are analysing these data and are now proposing to test the perioperative NSAID at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients, the category that could respond best to the perioperative NSAID. If this works as well as we expect, we would then transfer this technology to low- and/or middle-incomes countries (LMICs), starting with Nigeria where early onset type of TNBC is common. There is an unmet need in LMICs, especially in countries like Nigeria (190 million population), for a means to prevent surgery induced relapse that we are attempting to resolve. This work aims, thus, to describe eventual mechanisms, and ways to test a solution addressing an unmet need. But first, we consider the context, including within an historical perspective, important to explain how and why a Kuhnian paradigm shift may be considered.

Miniaturized Multi Sensor Implant for Monitoring of Hemodynamic Parameters

t a novel miniaturized multi sensor implant for monitoring hemodynamic parameters in cardiovascular regions. Pressure measurements are performed with a highly accurate capacitive pressure sensor. An additional acceleration and temperature sensor allows compensating the impact of patient's inclination and temperature variations on the pressure measurement, respectively. A multi-functional transponder application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) manages sensor signal processing, storage of ID, sensor calibration data, telemetric energy, and data transmission with an extracorporeal reading unit. Each component of the implant is assembled on a low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) circuit board with an integrated antenna coil enabling an inductive near-field coupling at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. For a streamlined shape and reduction of thrombogenicity, the implant is encapsulated by biocompatible polymers.

The Global Durum Wheat Panel (GDP): An International Platform to Identify and Exchange Beneficial Alleles

Representative, broad and diverse collections are a primary resource to dissect genetic diversity and meet pre-breeding and breeding goals through the identification of beneficial alleles for target traits. From 2,500 tetraploid wheat accessions obtained through an international collaborative effort, a Global Durum wheat Panel (GDP) of 1,011 genotypes was assembled that captured 94-97% of the original diversity. The GDP consists of a wide representation of Triticum turgidum ssp. durum modern germplasm and landraces, along with a selection of emmer and primitive tetraploid wheats to maximize diversity. GDP accessions were genotyped using the wheat iSelect 90K SNP array. Among modern durum accessions, breeding programs from Italy, France and Central Asia provided the highest level of genetic diversity, with only a moderate decrease in genetic diversity observed across nearly 50 years of breeding (1970-2018). Further, the breeding programs from Europe had the largest sets of unique alleles. LD was lower in the landraces (0.4 Mbp) than in modern germplasm (1.8 Mbp) at r ² = 0.5. ADMIXTURE analysis of modern germplasm defined a minimum of 13 distinct genetic clusters (k), which could be traced to the breeding program of origin. Chromosome regions putatively subjected to strong selection pressure were identified from fixation index (F _st ) and diversity reduction index (DRI) metrics in pairwise comparisons among decades of release and breeding programs. Clusters of putative selection sweeps (PSW) were identified as co-localized with major loci controlling phenology (Ppd and Vrn), plant height (Rht) and quality (gliadins and glutenins), underlining the role of the corresponding genes as driving elements in modern breeding. Public seed availability and deep genetic characterization of the GDP make this collection a unique and ideal resource to identify and map useful genetic diversity at loci of interest to any breeding program.

Multi-dimensional evaluation of response to salt stress in wheat

Soil salinity is a major threat to crop production worldwide. The global climate change is further accelerating the process of soil salinization, particularly in dry areas of the world. Increasing genetic variability of currently used wheat varieties by introgression of exotic alleles/genes from related progenitors' species in breeding programs is an efficient approach to overcome limitations due to the absence of valuable genetic diversity in elite cultivars. Synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW) is widely regarded as donor of favourable exotic alleles to improve tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses such as salinity stress. In this study, synthetic backcross lines (SBLs) winter wheat population "Z86", derived from crosses involving synthetic hexaploid wheat Syn86L with German elite winter wheat cultivar Zentos, was evaluated for salinity tolerance at different developmental stages under controlled and field conditions in three growing seasons. High genetic variability was detected across the SBLs and their parents at various growth stages under controlled as well as under salt stress field trials. Greater performance of Zentos over Syn86L was detected at germination stage across all salt treatments and with respect to shoot dry weight (SDW) and root dry weight (RDW) at seedling stage. Whereas for the root length (RL) and the shoot length (SL) Syn86L surpassed the elite cultivar and most of the progenies. Our experiments revealed for almost all traits that some genotypes among the SBLs showed higher performance than their parents. Furthermore, positive transgressive segregations were detected among the SBLs for germination at high salinity levels, as well as for RDW and SDW at seedling stage. Therefore, the studied Z86 population is a suitable population for assessment of salinity stress on morphological and physiological traits at different plant growth stages. The identified SBLs provide a valuable source for genetic gain through recombination of superior alleles that can be directly applied in breeding programs for efficiently breeding cultivars with improved salinity tolerance and desired agronomic traits.

Barley yield formation under abiotic stress depends on the interplay between flowering time genes and environmental cues

Since the dawn of agriculture, crop yield has always been impaired through abiotic stresses. In a field trial across five locations worldwide, we tested three abiotic stresses, nitrogen deficiency, drought and salinity, using HEB-YIELD, a selected subset of the wild barley nested association mapping population HEB-25. We show that barley flowering time genes Ppd-H1, Sdw1, Vrn-H1 and Vrn-H3 exert pleiotropic effects on plant development and grain yield. Under field conditions, these effects are strongly influenced by environmental cues like day length and temperature. For example, in Al-Karak, Jordan, the day length-sensitive wild barley allele of Ppd-H1 was associated with an increase of grain yield by up to 30% compared to the insensitive elite barley allele. The observed yield increase is accompanied by pleiotropic effects of Ppd-H1 resulting in shorter life cycle, extended grain filling period and increased grain size. Our study indicates that the adequate timing of plant development is crucial to maximize yield formation under harsh environmental conditions. We provide evidence that wild barley alleles, introgressed into elite barley cultivars, can be utilized to support grain yield formation. The presented knowledge may be transferred to related crop species like wheat and rice securing the rising global food demand for cereals.

Abstract P2-01-01: Early relapses in breast cancer can be prevented by a perioperative NSAID, which would be a solution to a 2000 year old problem

A bimodal pattern of hazard of relapse among early stage breast cancer patients has been identified in multiple databases from US, Europe and Asia. We have been studying these data to determine if this can lead to new ideas on how to prevent relapse in breast cancer. Using computer simulation and access to a very high quality database from Milan for patients treated with mastectomy only, we proposed that relapses within 3 years of surgery are stimulated somehow by the surgical procedure. During the week post surgery, metastatic development is enhanced 100 fold according to the simulation. Most relapses in breast cancer are in this early category. Retrospective data from a Brussels anesthesiology group suggested a plausible mechanism. Use of ketorolac, a common NSAID analgesic used in surgery was associated with far superior disease-free survival in the first 5 years after surgery. The expected prominent early relapse events in months 9-18 are reduced 5-fold. Transient systemic inflammation accompanying surgery (identified by IL-6 in serum) could facilitate angiogenesis of dormant micrometastases, proliferation of dormant single cells, and seeding of circulating cancer stem cells resulting in early relapse and could have been effectively blocked by the perioperative anti-inflammatory agent. If this observation holds up to further scrutiny, it could mean that the simple use of this safe, inexpensive and effective anti-inflammatory agent at surgery might eliminate early relapses. Similar bimodal patterns have been identified in other cancers suggesting a general effect. Based on the writings of Galen and Celsus, metastatic development after breast tumors were removed was known to them 2000 years ago.

This effect has been demonstrated recently in a mouse model by Krall et al Science Translational Medicine and reviewed in NEJM by Komaroff. In a series of experiments in 273 mice, aggressive mouse breast cancer cells were implanted in various locations. Initially, the tumor cells grew but then became dormant. This dormancy occurred only in mice with intact immunity, which suggests that the immune system can contain certain dormant metastases. Surgery of any type (including resection of a primary tumor) led to aggressive growth of metastases in 60% of animals, compared with 10% of control animals that did not undergo surgery. Surgical procedures caused systemic inflammatory responses. Activated monocytes from the marrow traveled to the sites of the dormant metastases and became tumor associated macrophages. These macrophages suppressed the immune system near the tumor, awakening the metastases from their dormancy. Treating the animals with NSAIDs before and immediately following surgery greatly attenuated growth of these metastases.

Since this effect has by now been shown in two Belgian retrospective studies as well as a mouse model we suggest this be tested in one or more clinical trials. We also note that the bleeding potential from using NSAIDs before surgery can apparently be reduced with the use of Tranexamic Acid – currently being tested in a clinical trial for mastectomy.

Citation Format: Retsky MW, Baum M, Vaidya JS, Rogers RA, Hrushesky WJ, Demicheli R, Forget P. Early relapses in breast cancer can be prevented by a perioperative NSAID, which would be a solution to a 2000 year old problem [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-01-01.

Genetic and transcriptional variations in NRAMP-2 and OPAQUE1 genes are associated with salt stress response in wheat

SNP alleles on chromosomes 4BL and 6AL are associated with sensitivity to salt tolerance in wheat and upon validation can be exploited in the development of salt-tolerant wheat varieties. The dissection of the genetic and molecular components of salt stress response offers strong opportunities toward understanding and improving salt tolerance in crops. In this study, GWAS was employed to identify a total of 106 SNP loci (R² = 0.12-63.44%) linked to salt stress response in wheat using leaf chlorophyll fluorescence, grain quality and shoot ionic (Na⁺ and K⁺ ions) attributes. Among them, 14 SNP loci individually conferred pleiotropic effects on multiple independent salinity tolerance traits including loci at 99.04 cM (R² ≥ 14.7%) and 68.45 cM (R² ≥ 4.10%) on chromosomes 6AL and 4BL, respectively, that influenced shoot Na⁺-uptake, shoot K⁺/Na⁺ ratio, and specific energy fluxes for absorption (ABS/RC) and dissipation (DIo/RC). Analysis of the open reading frame (ORF) containing the SNP markers revealed that they are orthologous to genes involved in photosynthesis and plant stress (salt) response. Further transcript abundance and qRT-PCR analyses indicated that the genes are mostly up-regulated in salt-tolerant and down-regulated in salt-sensitive wheat genotypes including NRAMP-2 and OPAQUE1 genes on 4BL and 6AL, respectively. Both genes showed highest differential expression between contrasting genotypes when expressions of all the genes within their genetic intervals were analyzed. Possible cis-acting regulatory elements and coding sequence variation that may be involved in salt stress response were also identified in both genes. This study identified genetic and molecular components of salt stress response that are associated with Na⁺-uptake, shoot Na⁺/K⁺ ratio, ABS/RC, DIo/RC, and grain quality traits and upon functional validation would facilitate the development of gene-specific markers that could be deployed to improve salinity tolerance in wheat.

Characterization of the miRNA regulators of the human ovulatory cascade

Ovarian follicular development and ovulation are complex and tightly regulated processes that involve regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs). We previously identified differentially expressed mRNAs between human cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs) from immature early antral follicles (germinal vesicle - GV) and mature preovulatory follicles (metaphase II - M2). In this study, we performed an integrated analysis of the transcriptome and miRNome in CGCs obtained from the GV cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) obtained from IVM and M2 COC obtained from IVF. A total of 43 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified. Using Ingenuity IPA analysis, we identified 7288 potential miRNA-regulated target genes. Two hundred thirty-four of these target genes were also found in our previously generated ovulatory gene library while exhibiting anti-correlated expression to the identified miRNAs. IPA pathway analysis suggested that miR-21 and FOXM1 cooperatively inhibit CDC25A, TOP2A and PRC1. We identified a mechanism for the temporary inhibition of VEGF during ovulation by TGFB1, miR-16-5p and miR-34a-5p. The linkage bioinformatics analysis between the libraries of the coding genes from our preliminary study with the newly generated library of regulatory miRNAs provides us a comprehensive, integrated overview of the miRNA-mRNA co-regulatory networks that may play a key role in controlling post-transcriptomic regulation of the ovulatory process.

Allelic variations and differential expressions detected at quantitative trait loci for salt stress tolerance in wheat

The increasing salinization of agricultural lands is a threat to global wheat production. Understanding of the mechanistic basis of salt tolerance (ST) is essential for developing breeding and selection strategies that would allow for increased wheat production under saline conditions to meet the increasing global demand. We used a set that consists of 150 internationally derived winter and facultative wheat cultivars genotyped with a 90K SNP chip and phenotyped for ST across three growth stages and for ionic (leaf K⁺ and Na⁺  contents) traits to dissect the genetic architecture regulating ST in wheat. Genome-wide association mapping revealed 187 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) (R²  = 3.00-30.67%), representing 37 quantitative trait loci (QTL), significantly associated with the ST traits. Of these, four QTL on 1BS, 2AL, 2BS and 3AL were associated with ST across the three growth stages and with the ionic traits. Novel QTL were also detected on 1BS and 1DL. Candidate genes linked to these polymorphisms were uncovered, and expression analyses were performed and validated on them under saline and non-saline conditions using transcriptomics and qRT-PCR data. Expressed sequence comparisons in contrasting ST wheat genotypes identified several non-synonymous/missense mutation sites that are contributory to the ST trait variations, indicating the biological relevance of these polymorphisms that can be exploited in breeding for ST in wheat.

Allelic variations and differential expressions detected at quantitative trait loci for salt stress tolerance in wheat

The increasing salinization of agricultural lands is a threat to global wheat production. Understanding of the mechanistic basis of salt tolerance (ST) is essential for developing breeding and selection strategies that would allow for increased wheat production under saline conditions to meet the increasing global demand. We used a set that consists of 150 internationally derived winter and facultative wheat cultivars genotyped with a 90K SNP chip and phenotyped for ST across three growth stages and for ionic (leaf K⁺ and Na⁺  contents) traits to dissect the genetic architecture regulating ST in wheat. Genome-wide association mapping revealed 187 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) (R²  = 3.00-30.67%), representing 37 quantitative trait loci (QTL), significantly associated with the ST traits. Of these, four QTL on 1BS, 2AL, 2BS and 3AL were associated with ST across the three growth stages and with the ionic traits. Novel QTL were also detected on 1BS and 1DL. Candidate genes linked to these polymorphisms were uncovered, and expression analyses were performed and validated on them under saline and non-saline conditions using transcriptomics and qRT-PCR data. Expressed sequence comparisons in contrasting ST wheat genotypes identified several non-synonymous/missense mutation sites that are contributory to the ST trait variations, indicating the biological relevance of these polymorphisms that can be exploited in breeding for ST in wheat.

Simplifying Infusion Chemotherapy: Preliminary Communication

A low-intervention policy for Hickman catheter maintenance has been evaluated and found to be safe and cost effective. A simple, lightweight, disposable device has been used for 24–hour ambulatory home infusion. Implementation of this policy as part of a prospective randomized trial of single-agent chemotherapy in advanced breast cancer has demonstrated that slow intravenous infusion reduces the acute toxicity of epirubicin when compared with bolus injection.

What are the Psychological Factors Influencing Attendance, Non-Attendance and Re-Attendance at a Breast Screening Centre?

We describe some preliminary findings from a pilot study using three recently developed questionnaires which assessed items such as the health beliefs, knowledge about cancer and attitudes to breast cancer screening in 242 women invited to attend for mammographic screening in South East London. We suggest that these questionnaires should be used in all regional centres both to monitor psychological variables and to identify local problems within the service which may be influencing the up-take of invitations to come for screening.

The Prospective Pediatric Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (ppCRRT) Registry: Design, Development and Data Assessed

Many issues plague the pediatric ARF outcome literature, which include data only from single center sources, a relative lack of prospective study, mixture within studies of renal replacement therapy modality without stratification and inconsistent use of methods to control for patient illness severity in outcome analysis. Since January 2001, the Prospective Pediatric CRRT (ppCRRT) Registry Group has been collecting data from multiple United States pediatric centers to obtain demographic data regarding pediatric patients who receive CRRT, assess the effect of different CRRT prescriptions on circuit function and evaluate the impact of clinical variables on patient outcome. The aim of the current paper is to describe the ppCRRT Registry design, review the decision process and rationale for the options chosen for the ppCRRT format and discuss the analysis plan and future projects envisioned for the ppCRRT Registry.

Assessment of genetic diversity and yield performance in Jordanian barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) landraces grown under Rainfed conditions

BACKGROUND

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is a major cereal crop, which is cultivated under variable environmental conditions and abiotic stresses in marginal areas around the globe. In this study, we evaluated 150 Jordanian landraces obtained from ICARDA Gene Bank and four local checks for yield and yield components related-traits in two locations across Jordan for three growing seasons under rainfed conditions. The study aims to identify superior Jordanian barley genotypes under dry conditions, to understand the genotype × environment (G × E) interactions, to analyze stability parameters and to identify markers associated with yield and yield components under rainfed conditions.

RESULTS

The barley accessions exhibited significant variation for all traits studied. Three accessions with high yield, cultivar superiority and stability under specific environments were identified with accession G69 is the highest yielding and superior for Madaba and overall environments and G144 is the highest yielding at Ramtha. Accession G123 was high yielding in all environments and was stable across different environments. At the genetic level, the Jordanian landraces were found to be diverse with a clustering that was based on row-type. The GWAS analysis identified 77 significant markers-traits associations for multiple traits including grain yield (GY) with three significant QTLs located at 1H, 2H and 7H, which seem important for dry environments.

CONCLUSION

Utilizing Jordanian barley landraces can effectively improve and adapt the current barley cultivars for cultivation under environmental stresses in dry regions. Utilization of markers associated with important agronomical traits and their incorporation in breeding using marker assisted selection can improve barley tolerance to drought stress.

Control of Chiral Magnetism Through Electric Fields in Multiferroic Compounds above the Long-Range Multiferroic Transition

Polarized neutron scattering experiments reveal that type-II multiferroics allow for controlling the spin chirality by external electric fields even in the absence of long-range multiferroic order. In the two prototype compounds TbMnO_{3} and MnWO_{4}, chiral magnetism associated with soft overdamped electromagnons can be observed above the long-range multiferroic transition temperature T_{MF}, and it is possible to control it through an electric field. While MnWO_{4} exhibits chiral correlations only in a tiny temperature interval above T_{MF}, in TbMnO_{3} chiral magnetism can be observed over several kelvin up to the lock-in transition, which is well separated from T_{MF}.

Substitutions in the cardenolide binding site and interaction of subunits affect kinetics besides cardenolide sensitivity of insect Na,K-ATPase

Substitutions within the cardenolide target site of several insects' Na,K-ATPase α-subunits may confer resistance against toxic cardenolides. However, to which extent these substitutions alter the Na,K-ATPase's kinetic properties and how they interact with different β-subunits is not clear. The cardenolide-adapted milkweed bug Oncopeltus fasciatus possesses three paralogs of the α-subunit (A, B, and C) that differ in number and identity of resistance-conferring substitutions. We introduced these substitutions into the α-subunit of Drosophila melanogaster and combined them with the β-subunits Nrv2.2 and Nrv3. The substitutions Q111T-N122H-F786N-T797A (A-copy mimic) and Q111T-N122H-F786N (B-copy mimic) mediated high insensitivity to ouabain, yet they drastically lowered ATPase activity. Remarkably, the identity of the β-subunit was decisive and all α-subunits were less active when combined with Nrv3 than when combined with Nrv2.2. Both the substitutions and the co-expressed β-subunit strongly affected the enyzme's affinity for Na⁺ and K⁺. Na⁺ affinity was considerably higher for all enzymes expressed with nrv3 while expression with nrv2.2 mostly increased K⁺ affinity. Our results provide the first evidence that resistance against cardenolides comes at the cost of significantly altered kinetic properties of the Na,K-ATPase. The β-subunit can strongly modulate these properties but cannot fully compensate for the effect of the substitutions.