Juvenile Characteristics Research Articles

A New Historicist Reading of John Dos Passos’ Novel The Big Money: Depiction of Children as a “Second Lost Generation”

This article examines the representation of children as a “second lost generation” in John Dos Passos’ novel The Big Money. It explains that the documentary and narrative sections that Dos Passos integrates into the novel explore how children’s position in the 1930s is caught between parents’ care and indifference. Dos Passos clarifies the impact of the American Dream and materialism upon the structuring of this conflicted position. In the novel’s Newsreels, Dos Passos presents a composite of popular songs and news headlines that present children seeking jobs and also departing from their family houses. Alongside the presentation of this phenomenon which resonates with children’s social situation in 1930s, in the narrative sections Dos Passos portrays Juvenile characters as living in families whose main concern is the making of money. To investigate this representation, the article considers the views of historians about the first “lost generation” (the post-World War I generation). It utilizes the “second lost generation” term to describe the juveniles who struggled during the 1930s age of Depression. The article historicizes the position of children in 1930s America. It refers to literary critics’ views about Dos Passos’ modernist and political inclination. The article concludes that Dos Passos’ The Big Money manifests in a modernist form fragmented historical realities about 1930s America’s materialistic thinking, within which children are seen as a second “lost generation”.

Child Crime As Perpetrators Of Immoral Crimes

This research delves into the criminal responsibility of children engaged in moral crimes, specifically focusing on decency crimes like rape within the framework of Indonesia's legal system, as outlined in "Law Number 11 of 2012 concerning the Juvenile Criminal Justice System." Employing a normative juridical approach, the study analyzes legal statutes and cases related to such crimes, revealing a discrepancy between existing laws and their implementation. Instances of lenient sentencing, such as a six-month term for a severe crime, underscore the need for a closer examination of the diversion approach to reduce decency crimes by children. The research explores the concept of effective punishment within the unique context of juvenile offenders, advocating for the Juvenile Criminal Justice System's role in social rehabilitation through institutions like the Special Child Development Institute. Despite legislative efforts, inconsistencies persist, highlighting the necessity for a more stringent application of legal rules and a commitment to children's rights during the criminal justice process. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the importance of aligning punishment with juvenile characteristics, urging a shift towards comprehensive measures that promote personal growth and responsibility. It underscores the significance of upholding children's rights while addressing societal concerns related to reducing moral crimes committed by children through rigorous legal implementation.

Zircon U-Pb-Hf Isotopes and Whole-Rock Geochemistry of the “Kulumudi Formation” from the Laofengkou Area (West Junggar): Implications of the Construction of a Juvenile Arc in the Junggar–Balkhash Ocean

The properties of ancient magmatic arcs are crucial for understanding the tectonic evolution of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The Middle Devonian Kulumudi Formation in the Laofengkou area of West Junggar lacks accurate chronological data constraints, which hampers the knowledge of the nature of the Late Paleozoic magmatic arcs in the West Junggar and circum-Balkhash areas. In this contribution, samples of pyroclastic rocks and sedimentary rocks were collected from the volcano–sedimentary strata of the Kulumudi Formation. Petrography, zircon U-Pb-Hf isotopic analysis and whole-rock geochemistry were carried out to constrain the age and the tectonic setting of the Kulumudi Formation. The zircon U-Pb age of the lithic crystal tuff from the Kulumudi Formation on the northeast side of the Alemale Mountains was 386 ± 2 Ma, accurately indicating that this rock unit formed during the Middle Devonian. However, the fine sandstone near the Huojierte Mongolian Township, originally assigned as the “Kulumudi Formation”, yielded a maximum depositional age of 341 ± 3 Ma. Combined with the stratigraphic contact, this rock unit was redefined to belong to the Lower Carboniferous Jiangbasitao Formation. According to the whole-rock geochemistry study, the lithic crystal tuff of the Kulumudi Formation was characterized as medium potassium–calc–alkaline series rock, which is relatively enriched in light rare earth elements and large ion lithophile elements (i.e., Rb, Ba, K) and depleted in high-field-strength elements (i.e., Nb, Ta, Ti), showing similar geochemical characteristics to the volcanic arc rocks. By contrast, the fine sandstone from the Jiangbasitao Formation had Al2O3/SiO2 (0.25–0.29) and K2O/Na2O (1.29–1.72) ratios close to those derived from the continental arc and active continental margin and was characterized as part of the continental arc field in the La-Th-Sc and Th-Sc-Zr/10 tectonic discrimination diagrams. Zircon Hf isotope analysis showed that the εHf(t) values of the Kulumudi Formation were +5.6–+12.8, and those of the Jiangbasitao Formation were +11.43–+15.48, both of which show highly positive juvenile characteristics. The above data indicate that the Kulumudi Formation and Jiangbasitao Formation both formed in a juvenile arc setting with ocean–continent subduction. Combined with the previous work, it was concluded that the southward subduction of the ocean basin represented by the Darbut–Karamay ophiolitic mélanges beneath the newly accreted arc crustal segments produced a juvenile arc with positive Hf isotope characteristics.

Heterologous codA Gene Expression Leads to Mitigation of Salt Stress Effects and Modulates Developmental Processes.

Transgenic tobacco plants overexpressing the choline oxidase gene from A. globiformis showed an increase in resistance at the level of primary and secondary biosynthesis of metabolites, removing the damage characteristic of salinity and stabilizing the condition of plants. We used 200 mM NaCl, which inhibits the growth of tobacco plants at all stages of development. Leaves of transgenic and wild-type (WT) plants Nicotiána tabácum were used for biochemical, cytological and molecular biological analysis. However, for transgenic lines cultivated under normal conditions (without salinity), we noted juvenile characteristics, delay in flowering, and slowing down of development, including the photosynthetic apparatus. This caused changes in the amount of chlorophyll, a delay in the plastid grana development with the preservation of prolamellar bodies. It also caused changes in the amount of sugars and indirectly downstream processes. A significant change in the activity of antioxidant enzymes and a change in metabolism is probably compensated by the regulation of a number of genes, the expression level of which was also changed. Thus, the tolerance of transgenic tobacco plants to salinity, which manifested itself as a result of the constitutive expression of codA, demonstrates an advantage over WT plants, but in the absence of salinity, transgenic plants did not have such advantages due to juvenilization.

Ontogenetic instars of Zygoribatula excavata, with remarks on juveniles of Oripodoidea (Acari: Oribatida)

Information on the morphological ontogeny of oribatid mites of the family Oribatulidae is very scarce, and the juveniles of most species are unknown yet. In this work, the ontogenetic instars of the semicosmopolitan species, Zygoribatula excavata Berlese, 1916 are studied. The juvenile instars of this species are morphologically similar to those of the other species of Zygoribatula, and this genus can be included among those in which species are difficult to distinguish based on juvenile characteristics alone. As information on the morphological ontogeny of most species of Oribatulidae is still insufficient or unknown, a comparison on the juvenile characteristics of the families belonging to the superfamily Oripodoidea is given based on our own data and available literature sources. The major characteristics of juvenile instars of 10 families and 21 genera are presented. There are few characters, such as body shape and size, pattern of cuticle, excentrosclerites at gastronotic setae, size and morphology of setiform organs, such as bothridial as well as gastronotic setae that distinguish the families or genera of Oripodoidea.  

The construct of cuteness: A validity study for measuring content and evoked emotions on social media.

Social media users are often exposed to cute content that evokes emotional reactions and influences them to feel or behave certain ways. The cuteness phenomenon in social media has been scarcely studied despite its prevalence and potential to spread quickly and affect large audiences. The main framework for understanding cuteness and emotions related to cuteness outside of social media is baby schema (having juvenile characteristics), which triggers parental instincts. We propose that baby schema is a necessary but not sufficient component of explaining what constitutes cuteness and how people react to it in the social media context. Cute social media content may also have characteristics that evoke approach motivations (a desire to interact with an entity, generally with the expectation of having a positive experience) that can manifest behaviorally in sharing and other prosocial online behaviors. We developed and performed initial validation for measures in social media contexts of: (1) cute attributes that encompass both baby schema and other proposed cuteness characteristics (the Cuteness Attributes Taxonomy, CAT) and (2) the emotional reactions they trigger (Heartwarming Social Media, HSM). We used the Kama Muta Multiplex Scale (KAMMUS Two), as previously validated measure of kama muta (an emotion akin to tenderness; from Sanskrit, "moved by love") as a measure of emotional reaction to cute stimuli and the dimension Cute Content of the Social Media Emotions Annotation Guide (SMEmo-Cute Content) as a developed measure of gestalt cute content to help validate our newly developed measures. Using 1,875 Polish tweets, our results confirmed that cute social media content predicted a kama muta response, but not all KAMMUS Two subscales were sensitive to cute content, and that the HSM measure was a better indicator of the presence of cute content. Further, the CAT measure is an effective means of categorizing cute attributes of social media content. These results suggest potential differences between in-person, online, and social media experiences evoking cute emotional reactions, and the need for metrics that are developed and validated for use in social media contexts.

A juvenile skull from the early Palaeocene of China extends the appearance of crocodyloids in Asia back by 15–20 million years

AbstractThe earliest Crocodylia from Asia have been represented so far only by alligatoroids and planocraniids. Although definitive crocodyloids are not known until the late Eocene, it has been hypothesized that Asiatosuchus-like basal crocodyloids originated in Asia before the late Palaeocene. In this paper, we describe a new fossil crocodyloid from the lower Palaeocene of Qianshan Basin, Anhui Province, China. The skull and lower jaw fragment exhibit several characteristics typical of juvenile crocodylians. They also display a combination of features not seen in any other taxon, warranting the erection of a new species and genus, Qianshanosuchus youngi gen. & sp. nov. Its affinities are tested in phylogenetic analyses based on two recent character matrices of Eusuchia. To assess the effect of juvenile characteristics on the outcome of the phylogenetic analyses, juvenile specimens of extant crocodylian taxa are analysed in the same way, showing that the effect of their ontogenetic stage on their placement in the tree is minimal. Our analyses point to a basal crocodyloid position for Q. youngi. With these findings, the presence of Crocodyloidea in Asia is extended to the early Palaeocene, 15–20 Myr earlier than formerly thought. Furthermore, our results corroborate previous hypotheses of a Palaeocene dispersal route of Asiatosuchus-like crocodyloids from Asia into Europe.

Different Cell Types Affect the Transition from Juvenile to Mature Phase in Citrus Plants Regenerated through Somatic Embryogenesis.

Robust protocols for the regeneration of somatic embryos in vitro are essential for the efficient use of the most modern biotechnologies. Unfortunately, in perennial trees such as Citrus, plants regenerated from juvenile tissues usually exhibit strong, undesirable juvenile characters such as thorny habit and delayed flowering and fruit production. In this work, we tested whether the cell types (nucellar and stigma/style) used to regenerate Citrus plants through somatic embryogenesis affected the transition from the juvenile to mature phase. The results show that regenerants from nucellar cells presented persistent juvenile characters, whereas plants originating from stigma/style explants transited to the mature phase more rapidly. Our observations support the hypothesis that the totipotent cells originated from different cell types are not equivalent, possibly by maintaining memory of their previously differentiated state.

PM 7/40 (5) Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida

EPPO BulletinEarly View EPPO STANDARD ON DIAGNOSTICSFree Access PM 7/40 (5) Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida First published: 09 May 2022 https://doi.org/10.1111/epp.12836AboutSectionsPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditWechat Specific scope: This Standard describes a Diagnostic Protocol for Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida.11 Use of brand names of chemicals or equipment in these EPPO Standards implies no approval of them to the exclusion of others that may also be suitable. The terms used are those in the EPPO Pictorial Glossary of Morphological Terms in Nematology.22 http://www.eppo.int/QUARANTINE/diag_activities/EPPO_TD_1056_Glossary.pdf. This Standard should be used in conjunction with PM 7/76 Use of EPPO diagnostic protocols. Authors and contributors are given in the Acknowledgements section Specific approval and amendment: Approved as an EPPO Standard in 2003-09. Revisions approved in 2009-09, 2012-09 and 2017-02. Fourth revision approved in 2021-10. 1 INTRODUCTION Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida (potato cyst nematodes, PCNs) cause major losses in Solanum tuberosum (potato) crops (van Riel & Mulder, 1998). The main route of spread of these nematodes is movement of infested soil (e.g. on farm machinery, adhering to tubers). Infestation occurs when the second-stage juvenile hatches from the egg and enters the root near the growing tip by puncturing the epidermal cell walls, and then the internal cell walls, with its stylet. Eventually it begins feeding on cells in the pericycle, cortex or endodermis. The nematode induces enlargement of the root cells and breakdown of their walls to form a large, syncytial transfer cell. This syncytium provides nutrients for the nematode. Infested potato plants have a reduced root system and, because of the decreased water uptake, death of the plant can eventually occur. In this Diagnostic Protocol different tests for detection and identification are presented which can be used depending on the circumstances. In some EPPO countries, official control is in place and routine testing is required. For such routine testing in the country itself molecular techniques can be very useful. In other situations, such as the testing of imported material for potential quarantine or damaging nematodes or new infestations, identification by morphological methods performed by experienced nematologists is more suitable (PM 7/76 Use of EPPO diagnostic protocols). A flow diagram describing the diagnostic procedure for G. rostochiensis and G. pallida is presented in Figure 1. FIGURE 1Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Flow-diagram for the identification of Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida 2 IDENTITY Name: Globodera rostochiensis (Wollenweber, 1923), Skarbilovich, 1959. Synonyms: Heterodera rostochiensis, Wollenweber, 1923; Heterodera schachtii solani Zimmerman, 1927; Heterodera schachtii rostochiensis (Wollenweber) Kemner, 1929; Taxonomic position: Nematoda, Tylenchida,33 Developments combining a classification based on morphological data and molecular analysis refer to ‘Tylenchomorpha’ (De Ley & Blaxter, 2004). Heteroderidae. EPPO Code: HETDRO. Phytosanitary categorization: EPPO A2 List no. 125, A2 Quarantine pest (Annex II B). Name: Globodera pallida (Stone, 1973). Synonyms: Heterodera pallida (Stone, 1973). Taxonomic position: Nematoda, Tylenchida,3 Heteroderidae. EPPO Code: HETDPA. Phytosanitary categorization: EPPO A2 List no. 124, A2 Quarantine pest (Annex II B). Note on the taxonomy: it should be noted that a recent study, Thevenoux et al., 2020, has shown the presence of a larger genetic diversity in G. pallida than previously known, suggesting the presence of a new species in the south of Peru. 3 DETECTION 3.1 Symptoms Above-ground symptoms due to PCNs are not specific and often go undetected. General symptoms include patches of poor growth in the crop, with plants sometimes showing yellowing, wilting or death of foliage; tuber size is reduced and roots are extensively branched with soil stuck to them. However, there are many other causes of these symptoms. Plants should therefore be lifted for a visual check for the presence of cysts and young females on the roots, or a soil sample should be taken for testing. Young females and cysts are just visible to the naked eye as tiny white, yellow or brown pin-heads on the root surface (Figures 2 and 3). Detection by lifting plants is only possible for a short time as females mature into cysts and then can easily be lost at lifting, and this method is time-consuming. Soil testing is therefore the best way to determine the presence of PCNs. FIGURE 2Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Potato roots infected by G. rostochiensis. (Courtesy: NRC-NPPO, the Netherlands.) FIGURE 3Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Broken cyst with eggs of G. pallida. (Courtesy: NRC-NPPO, the Netherlands.) 3.2 Statutory sampling procedures Recommendations on sampling can be found in Council Directive 2007/33/EC of 11 June 2007 on the control of PCN and Repealing Directive 69/465/EEC (EU, 2007). 3.3 Extraction procedures There are various processes for extracting cysts from the soil. Simple methods based on flotation can be as good as elutriation. Extraction methods are described in PM 7/119 Nematode extraction (EPPO, 2013). Globodera cysts are generally round, which distinguishes them from most other types of nematode cysts. Prior to identification, cysts need to be removed from the floats. This process usually requires examination of the float by staff trained in separating nematode cysts from similar globular bodies in the soil. It can be time-consuming, depending upon the efficiency of extraction and whether any further clean-up has been used, e.g. acetone flotation. This process is critical to the efficiency of the diagnosis because false-negative results may result if any Globodera cysts are missed at this stage. The distinction between PCNs and other cysts based on morphology can only be reliably performed by trained experts. When moist soil samples are not immediately processed and viability tests are envisaged, they should be stored above zero and below 5°C as temperature influences hatching behaviour (Muhammad, 1996; Sharma & Sharma, 1998). Soil samples should not be dried at a temperature higher than approximately 35°C as this might also influence the viability. Educational videos on cyst extraction are available on the website of the European Union Reference Laboratory for Plant Parasitic Nematodes (https://sitesv2.anses.fr/en/minisite/plant-parasitic-nematodes/videos-media). 3.4 Bioassay Another procedure for detecting the nematodes is bioassay (Appendix 1, test A). 3.5 Direct testing of soil extracts or cysts The following molecular tests can be performed on soil extracts or cysts. Appendix 2 describes nucleic acid extraction. Test Appendix Multiplex real-time PCR test (Gamel et al., 2017) for the detection and identification of G. rostochiensis and G. pallida 3 High-throughput diagnosis of PCNs (Globodera spp.) in soil samples using real-time PCR (Reid et al., 2015) 4 Real-time PCR tests for species-specific identification as well as the detection of G. rostochiensis, G. pallida and Globodera tabacum (based on LSU rDNA), available as an all-inclusive real-time PCR kit (http://www.cleardetections.com) 5 4 IDENTIFICATION For the identification of G. rostochiensis and G. pallida cysts and other stages, it is highly recommended to combine morphological and molecular methods, especially when new introductions are suspected. 4.1 Identification on the basis of morphological features For morphological examination, second-stage juveniles and cysts should be obtained from the soil, plant roots or tubers. The colour of the female at the appropriate stage of development can be used as an indication of species: a female that changes during maturation from white to yellow then into a brown cyst is G. rostochiensis, while one that changes from white directly to brown is G. pallida. Differential interference contrast is highly recommended for identifying specimens mounted on microscope slides. 4.1.1 Identification of cyst and juveniles to genus level 4.1.1.1 Cysts Identification of Heteroderidae cysts to genus level is based on the form of the cysts and the characteristics of the vulval–anal region (Table 1 and Figures 4-7). Further information is provided by the keys of Brzeski (1998), Baldwin and Mundo-Ocampo (1991), Wouts and Baldwin (1998), Siddiqi (2000) and Subbotin et al. (2010). Table 1. Dichotomous key to genus of Heteroderidae cysts 1 Lemon-shaped cyst Not Globodera Round or oval cyst 2 2 Two large, separated fenestrae of equal size Punctodera One large vulval fenestra Globodera FIGURE 4Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Form of cysts and characteristics of the vulval–anal region. (After Baldwin and Mundo-Ocampo, 1991.) FIGURE 5Open in figure viewerPowerPoint The perineal region of a Globodera cyst (Hesling, 1978) FIGURE 6Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Heteroderidae cysts. Scale bar =350 μm. (Courtesy NAK, the Netherlands.) FIGURE 7Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Perineal region. Green arrows indicate the vulva and black arrows the anus. Globodera spp. vulval fenestra/anal region non-fenestrate. Punctodera spp. vulval fenestra/anal region fenestrate. (Courtesy NAK, the Netherlands.) Globodera cysts should present the following characteristics: cysts of Globodera are smoothly rounded with a small projecting neck, no terminal cone, diameter ±450 μm, and with a tanned brown skin (Figure 6a). The cuticle surface has a zigzag pattern of ridges. The perineal area (Figures 5 and 7a) consists of a single circumfenestration around the vulval slit, with tubercules on crescents near the vulva. The anus is subterminal without fenestra, the vulva is in a vulval basin; underbridge and bullae are rarely present (Fleming & Powers, 1998), and in particular are not present in G. rostochiensis and G. pallida. Eggs are retained in the cyst, with no egg-mass present. 4.1.1.2 Juveniles In addition to the juveniles in cysts, juveniles of cyst nematodes may be found incidentally in soil extracts after extraction for the detection of the non-sedentary stages of nematodes. Distinction between the juveniles of Globodera and other Heteroderidae is difficult; in such cases it is strongly advised to perform a cyst extraction where possible or to perform a molecular test on the juveniles (see Section 4.2) and to proceed with this Diagnostic Protocol. Some information, however, is provided below. Globodera juveniles should present the following characteristics: the mobile second-stage juveniles of Globodera are vermiform and annulated, and taper at head and tail regions. Within the genus Globodera, body length ranges from 445 to 510 μm, stylet length is 18–29 μm, tail length is 37–55 μm and the hyaline tail part is 21–31 μm. Juveniles of cyst nematodes can be distinguished from juveniles of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) by a more heavily sclerotized lip region, a relatively strong stylet, the shape of the tail and more robust appearance (Figure 8). In such cases it is advised to perform a cyst extraction or a molecular test on the juveniles. FIGURE 8Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Difference between Meloidogynidae and Heteroderidae juveniles. Comparison between Meloidogyne hapla and G. pallida. (Courtesy FERA, GB) The morphological key to Globodera species presented in Table 2 has used the mean average of morphometric characters to assist with differentiation, owing to the large overlap of ranges. If diagnosis of a population is carried out using morphological examination only, it is recommended to compare specimens with recent taxonomic descriptions and with the information provided in Table 3. However, as stated above, for the identification of G. rostochiensis and G. pallida it is highly recommended to combine morphological and molecular methods, especially when new introductions are suspected. Table 2. Dichotomous key to Globodera species (after Subbotin et al. (2010)) 1 Cuticle of cyst thin, transparent G. mali Cuticle of cyst thick, dark in colour 2 2 Mean length of J2 stylet ≤26 μm 3 Mean length of J2 stylet ≥27 μm G. zelandica 3 Mean length of J2 stylet <19 μm G. leptonepia Mean length of J2 stylet ≥19 μm 4 4 Hyaline region of J2 >31 μm G. bravoae Hyaline region of J2 ≤31 μm 5 5 Mean Granek’s ratio usually >2, mostly parasites of Solanaceae 6 Mean Granek’s ratio ≤2, mostly parasites of Asteraceae 11 6 Combination of: mean J2 DGO ≥5.5 μm; mean Granek’s ratio <3; J2 lip region with 4–6 annules, stylet knobs rounded to slightly anteriorly projected 7 Not with the above combination of all characters; mean J2 DGO <5.5 μm 8 7 Cyst wall lacking a network-like pattern, ridges close; mean number of cuticular ridges = 13 (10–18); ♂ spicules with a pointed, thorn-like tip G. ellingtonae Cyst wall exhibiting network-like or maze-like patterns; mean number of cuticular ridges = 7–8 (5–15); ♂ spicules with a finely rounded tip G. tabacum sensu lato 8 Cysts with prominent bullae in the terminal region of most specimens; J2 lip region with 3 annules, mean hyaline region >28 μm G. capensis Cyst abullate, at most with small vulval bodies in some specimens; J2 lip region with 4–6 annules, mean hyaline region <28 μm 9 9 J2 stylet knobs distinctly anteriorly directed to flattened anteriorly; mean J2 stylet length >23 μm; Granek’s ratio <3 10 J2 stylet knobs rounded to flattened anteriorly; mean J2 stylet length <23 μm; Granek’s ratio ≥3 G. rostochiensis 10 Mean Granek’s ratio = 2.1–2.5 G. pallida Mean Granek’s ratio = 2.8 G. mexicana 11 J2 lip region with 5–6 annules 12 J2 lip region with 3 annules G. capensis 12 Mean stylet ≥25 μm in J2, ♂ gubernaculum = 11.2–12.9 μm G. millefolii Mean stylet <25 μm in J2, ♂ gubernaculum = 6.0–9.9 μm G. artemisiae Table 3. Morphological and morphometric characters useful for identification of Globodera species, range and mean values in µm (after Lownsbery & Lownsbery, 1954; Eroshenko & Kazachenko 1972; Golden & Klindic, 1973; Stone, 1973a & b, Baldwin & Mundo-Ocampo, 1991; Mota & Eisenback, 1993; Brzeski, 1998; Flemming & Powers, 1998; Manduric & Anderson, 2004) Species J2 body length J2 stylet Cyst measurements Knob width Knob shape Stylet length Number of cuticular ridges between anus and vulval basin Granek’s ratio G. rostochiensis 468 (425–505) 3–4 Rounded to Anteriorly flattened 21.8 (19–23) 12–31b b From Flemming & Powers (1998); Brzeski (1998) refers to 16–31. (usually >14) 1.3–9.5 (>3) G. pallida 484 (440–525) 4–5 Distinct forward projections 23.8 (22–24) 8–20 (usually <14) 1.2–3.5 (<3) G. tabacum 476 (410–527) 4–5 Rounded to slightly anteriorly projected 24 (22–26) 5–15 1–4.2 (<2.8) G. millefoliia a Krall (1978) considered G. millefolii (Kirjanova & Krall, 1965) Behrens, 1975 as species inquirenda, as the description was based on a single female. Brzeski (1998) reported on G. achilleae: ‘it may be conspecific with G. millefolii’. According to Subbotin et al., 2010, 2011 G. achilleae is a junior synonym of G. millefolii. So from this point onwards the species name G. achilleae will not be used and G. millefolii instead. 492 (472–515) 4–5 Rounded to anteriorly projected 25 (24–26) 4–11 1.6 (1.3–1.9) G. artemisiae 413 (357–490) 3–5 Rounded to anteriorly flattened 22.6 (18–29) 5–16 1.0 (0.8–1.7) a Krall (1978) considered G. millefolii (Kirjanova & Krall, 1965) Behrens, 1975 as species inquirenda, as the description was based on a single female. Brzeski (1998) reported on G. achilleae: ‘it may be conspecific with G. millefolii’. According to Subbotin et al., 2010, 2011 G. achilleae is a junior synonym of G. millefolii. So from this point onwards the species name G. achilleae will not be used and G. millefolii instead. b From Flemming & Powers (1998); Brzeski (1998) refers to 16–31. 4.1.2 Identification to species level The identification of Globodera to species level based on morphology can be difficult because of the observed variability of key characteristics. Therefore, the use of a combination of cyst and second-stage juvenile characteristics is recommended for reliable identification. First the nematodes should be identified with the key presented in Table 2. If the nematodes are identified as PCN species, species identification should be performed using the morphological and morphometric characters presented in Table 3. Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida are morphologically and morphometrically closely related (Stone, 1973a,b). Figure 9 presents some drawings of different stages of G. rostochiensis (Figure 9a) and G. pallida (Figure 9b). For cysts, the most important diagnostic differences are in the perineal area, i.e. the number of cuticular ridges between the vulva and anus and Granek’s ratio (Figure 10a,b). The second-stage juvenile characteristics are stylet length and stylet knob shape and width (Table 3, Figure 10c). As the range of values for each of these characteristics can overlap between species, care is needed. In such cases, confirmation with molecular techniques is recommended. It should also be noted that this data is for specific populations described in the publications and that natural deviations from the range may occur. FIGURE 9Open in figure viewerPowerPoint Illustrations on the left-hand side of the plate (side labelled A in bold), G. rostochiensis: (a) entire juvenile; (b) head region of second-stage juvenile; (c) second-stage juvenile lateral field, mid-body; (d) pharyngeal region of second-stage juvenile; (e) pharyngeal region of male; (f) tail of male; (g) lateral field of male, mid-body; (h) entire cysts; (i) head and neck of female; (j) entire male. (After C.I.H. Descriptions of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes, Set 2, No. 16.) Illustrations on the right-hand side of the plate (side labelled B in bold), G. pallida second-stage juvenile: (a) entire; (b) anterior; (c) head; (d) tail; (e) lateral field mid-body region; (f) lateral field tail; (g) head and face at level of lips; (h) head and face at level of base. (After Stone (1972).) FIGURE 10Open in figure viewerPowerPoint (a) Perineal measurements for Globodera identification. (b) Vulval–anal ridge patterns for four Globodera species. (c) Stylets from four species of Globodera. See footnote 5 (Section 4.1.2) for G. achilleae. (After Fleming and Powers, 1998.) When cysts without live content, meaning that they do not contain viable eggs or second-stage juveniles, are found, species identification is not possible.44 It should be noted that under European conditions, especially when cysts without live content have been detected in fields used for the production of potato in the past, it is highly probable that these cysts belong to either one of the PCN species G. rostochiensis or G. pallida. An educational video on the morphological identification of G. pallida and G. rostochiensis (perineal pattern and juvenile features) is available on the website of the European Union Reference Laboratory for Plant Parasitic Nematodes (https://sitesv2.anses.fr/en/minisite/plant-parasitic-nematodes/videos-media). The three other Globodera species which could cause confusion during identification of PCNs in Europe are Globodera millefolii (Kirjanova & Krall, 1965) Behrens, 1975,55 Krall (1978) considered G. millefolii (Kirjanova & Krall, 1965) Behrens, 1975 as species inquirenda, as the description was based on a single female. Brzeski (1998) reported on Globodera achilleae: ‘it may be conspecific with G. millefolii’. According to Subbotin et al., 2010, 2011 G. achilleae is a junior synonym of G. millefolii. So from this point onwards the species name G. achilleae will not be used but G. millefolii will be used instead. Globodera artemisiae (Eroshenko & Kazachenko, 1972) Behrens, 1975, and G. tabacum sensu lato. The first two species are not parasitic on potato but have been recorded on Achillea millefolium and Artemisia vulgaris, respectively, in comparable agricultural areas. The G. tabacum species complex (G. tabacum tabacum (Lownsbery & Lownsbery, 1954) Skarbilovich, 1959; G. tabacum solanacearum (Miller & Gray, 1972) Behrens, 1975, and G. tabacum virginiae (Miller & Gray, 1972) Behrens, 1975) is found in North and Central America. Globodera tabacum tabacum is also present in Southern Europe. It parasitizes Nicotiana tabacum (tobacco) and some other solanaceous plants (but not potato). Table 3 and Figure 10 provide a morphometric and morphological comparison between the PCNs G. millefolii, G. artemisiae and G. tabacum. See also Baldwin and Mundo-Ocampo (1991), Mota and Eisenback (1993), Brzeski (1998) Wouts and Baldwin (1998) and Subbotin et al. (2010) for more detailed information on other members of the Heteroderidae and identification keys. Additionally, two new Globodera species have been described, Globodera ellingtonae, detected on potato in Oregon, USA (Handoo et al., 2012) and in Argentina (Lax et al., 2014), and Globodera capensis, detected in a potato field in South Africa (Knoetze et al., 2013). The differences between these species and PCN species are minute and molecular methods are highly recommended for a reliable distinction. The species are only locally present in the USA, Argentina and South Africa and have not been detected in Europe so far. Two new species, Globodera sandveldensis and Globodera agulhasensis, both parasitizing non-Solanaceae plants, have been described in South Africa (Knoetze et al., 2017a & b) and will be considered for inclusion in Table 2 in a subsequent revision. 4.2 Molecular methods As G. rostochiensis and G. pallida are morphologically closely related, several polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based tests have been developed to separate the two PCN species. The recommended molecular tests are described in Appendices 3–9. It should be noted that many tests that were developed to distinguish specifically G. rostochiensis from G. pallida have not been tested so far against species such as G. millefolii, G. tabacum and G. mexicana. This limitation should be noted. Tests that were developed after 2000 generally do not have these shortcomings. Specific identification of G. millefolii from G. rostochiensis and G. pallida is possible following the PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) test developed by Sirca et al. (2010). There are also differences between European and non-European populations of the two species, which might be made visible with sequencing techniques (Hockland et al., 2012). A molecular test (Skantar et al., 2007) allows a distinction to be made between G. pallida and G. tabacum. DNA barcoding can also be used to support identification. Identification of G. rostochiensis and G. pallida should preferably combine morphological and molecular methods, especially when new introductions are suspected. 4.2.1 PCR tests The PCR tests presented in Table 4 are recommended for the identification of isolated cysts or individuals from G. rostochiensis and G. pallida: as performance characteristics of the different tests presented below vary (in particular with regard to their analytical specificity) the choice of test should be made according to the circumstances of use. Table 4. PCR tests recommended for the identification of isolated cysts or individuals from G. rostochiensis and G. pallida. Test Appendix Multiplex real-time PCR test (Gamel et al., 2017) 3 High-throughput diagnosis of PCNs (Globodera spp.) in soil samples using real-time PCR (Reid et al., 2015) 4 Real-time PCR tests for species-specific identification as well as detection of G. rostochiensis, G. pallida and G. tabacum (based on LSU rDNA) available as an all-inclusive real-time PCR kit (http://www.cleardetections.com) 5 A multiplex PCR test using species-specific primers based on ribosomal 18S and ITS1 sequences Bulman and Marshall (1997) 6 An internal transcribed spacer (ITS)-RFLP PCR test based on primers described by Vrain et al. (1992) (Thiéry and Mugniéry, 1996) 7 A Taqman® real-time PCR targeting the internal transcribed spacer I (ITSI) gene (Fera) 8 Identification of viable PCN (Globodera spp.) using RNA-specific RT-PCR (Beniers et al., 2014) 9 Appendix 2 describes nucleic acid extraction. 4.2.2 DNA barcoding A protocol for DNA barcoding based on COI, 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA is described in Appendix 5 of PM 7/129 DNA barcoding as an identification tool for a number of regulated pests: DNA barcoding nematodes (EPPO, 2016) and can support the identification of G. pallida and G. rostochiensis. Sequences are available in databases including Q-bank (https://qbank.eppo.int/nematodes/). 4.3 Pathotypes The term ‘pathotype’ is used by the International PCN Pathotype Scheme proposed by Kort et al. (1977) but is now considered too general. Many PCN populations cannot conclusively be assigned to the pathotypes described in this scheme. There are differences in virulence between the two PCN species, in particular between populations of G. pallida, and they are of the utmost importance in populations from South America, but identification at this level is not adequate at the moment and it is time-consuming and expensive and requires specific analysis (Hockland et al., 2012). Any population showing signs of a new or unusual virulence (i.e. overcoming the resistance currently available in potato cultivars in Europe) should be tested as soon as possible. In practice, the virulence of populations can be tested on a set of cultivars used in each country. An EPPO Standard, PM 3/68 Testing of potato varieties to assess resistance to Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida, is available (EPPO, 2021). 4.4 Testing the viability of eggs and juveniles Testing of the viability of the eggs and juveniles may be required for regulatory purposes. This can be done by different methods. Visual morphological determination of viability (a table with descriptions and figures is provided in Appendix 10). These observations require trained personnel. Determination of viability with a bioassay. Two tests are described in Appendix 1. Such tests require more time to perform than visual morphological determination of viability and generally more time than determination of viability by hatching tests. Dormancy might play a role and should be lifted. An additional aspect of bioassays is the possibility of false-negative results owing to a very low cyst content. Determination of viability by hatching tests. Three tests are described in Appendix 11. Such tests require more time to perform than visual morphological determination of viability. When determining the viability with a hatching test, it should be noted that cysts which have formed recently may be dormant (e.g. when sampling is performed in the autumn after the potato harvest). To break the dormancy, cysts should be exposed to +4 °C for at least 4 months. Determination of the viability of eggs using trehalose. The test is described in Appendix 12, based on the publications by van den Elsen et al. (2012) and Ebrahimi et al. (2015) Determination of viability and identification on the basis of RNA. The test is described in Appendix 9, based on the publication by Beniers et al. (2014). Morphological determination of viability of eggs by staining with Meldola’s Blue is also possible, but the chemical is not easily available, so this technique is not described in this Protocol. 5 REFERENCE MATERIAL Reference material can be obtained from: the National Plant Protection Organization, National Reference Centre, PO Box 9102, 6700 HC Wageningen (the Netherlands); the Food and Environmental Research Agency (Fera), Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ (GB); the Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI), Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Messeweg 11–12, 38104 Braunschweig (Germany). the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRAe) Biology of Organisms and Populations for Plant Protection Domaine de la Motte, BP 35327, 35653 Le Rheu Cedex (France). 6 REPORTING AND DOCUMENTATION Guidance on reporting and documentation is given in EPPO Standard PM 7/77 Documentation and reporting on a diagnosis. 7 PERFORMANCE CRITERIA When performance criteria are available, these are provided with the description of the test. A validation data is also available in the EPPO Database on Diagnostic Expertise (http://dc.eppo.int), and it is recommended to consult this database as additional information may be available there (e.g. more detailed information on analytical specificity, full validation reports, etc.). 8 FURTHER INFORMATION Further information on this organism can be obtained from: E. van Heese and G Karssen, National Plant Protection Organization, National

Mid-Cretaceous intra-oceanic arc-continent collision recorded by the igneous complex in central Myanmar

Magmatic rocks from intra-oceanic arcs are critical for understanding the formation of continental crust and tectonic evolution. The early tectonic evolution of the Neo-Tethyan Ocean before the final Indo-Asia collision remains mysterious, and the geodynamic processes that triggered the Cretaceous magmatism in central Myanmar is still debated. The Cretaceous magmatic complex in the Banmauk-Kawlin area (BKC), west Myanmar terrane (WMT) is composed of the Kanza Chaung granitoid batholith, the Mawgyi Volcanic rocks, and the Pinhinga plutonic complex. Zircon U-Pb dating results of various rocks from the Kanza Chaung batholith suggest magmatism lasted from ca. 110 to ca. 94 Ma, roughly overlapping with new geochronological data for the Mawgyi Volcanics. Mafic rocks, including basalts from the Mawgyi Volcanics and gabbros from the Kanza Chaung Batholith, have geochemical features resembling intra-oceanic arc magmas, characterized by high large-ion-lithophile elements (LILEs) and low high-field-strength elements (HFSEs) and flat trace element patterns. They have depleted Sr (initial 87Sr/86Sr = 0.7035–0.7054) and Nd (εNd(t) = 0.39–6.71) isotopic compositions, with zircon εHf(t) values ranging from +5.8 to +16.1, probably derived from partial melting of the mantle wedge. Diorites formed by differentiation of basaltic magma have similar trace element patterns and Sr-Nd isotopes. The granitic rocks were likely originated from partial melting of juvenile arc lower-crust, indicated by their high SiO2 (>65.0 wt%), low MgO (<2.50 wt%) and depleted Nd and zircon Hf isotopes. The εNd(t) values of the BKC shift markedly (from ~ + 7 to 0) from 105 to 94 Ma, which correlates with a temporal increase of Th/Nb, La/Ta, and La/Sm. Given the juvenile characteristics of the WMT crust, this can be explained by exotic isotopically enriched crustal components subducted into the mantle source, rather than steady-state sediment subduction and crustal contamination. Given the Albian unconformity in the WMT and recent paleomagnetic data, such continent crustal components were likely introduced by collision followed by subduction of Greater India-derived continental sliver beneath the WMT. Thus crust with an Indian continent affinity was possibly accreted to an intra-oceanic arc (WMT) during the mid-Cretaceous.

Like parent, like child – Ontogenetic development of claws of intertidal arthropods (Acari, Oribatida) from different ecological niches

The shape of claws of adult air-breathing intertidal oribatid mites shows a strong correlation with ecology. As nothing is known about juvenile characteristics of this trait, the ontogenetic development of these attachment devices was studied for the first time with comprehensive geometric morphometric methods. In nine investigated species, claws of immature stages can be classified into the same ecological categories as adults, i.e. juveniles of several rock-dwelling species already show higher and stronger curved claw shapes with smaller claw angles, while juvenile instars of the single investigated mangrove-dwelling species possess lower and less curved claws with wider claw angles. For each species, claw curvature is almost static during the complete development and claw length grows directly proportional with increasing body size. Developmental changes in body size and weight are thus mainly compensated by a simple relative growth in size. Despite the finding that claw shapes of early developmental stages are already classifiable into ecological categories, their shapes also change slightly during development to become more ‘rock’, ‘mix’ or ‘mangrove’-like, respectively. The present results demonstrate that ecology is also the most important factor in shaping the claws of immatures and that attachment in the intertidal environment is vital for the survival of each mobile stage.

Postembryonic development in freshwater crayfish (Decapoda: Astacidea) in an evolutionary context

Detailed morphology of the first three postembryonic developmental stages (Stages I-III juvenile) in representatives from all four crayfish families, Austropotamobius torrentium (von Paula Schrank, 1803) (Astacidae), Procambarus virginalis Lyko, 2017 (Cambaridae), Cambaroides japonicus (De Haan, 1841 [in De Haan, 1833-1850]) (Cambaroididae) and Cherax destructor Clark, 1936 (Parastacidae) are described and the diagnostic characters for each family are indicated. A phylogenetic tree of freshwater Astacidea, based on these new diagnostic juvenile characters is constructed to suborder, superfamily and family levels, and compared with a molecular phylogenetic tree. The evolutionary history of maternal care in freshwater crayfish is discussed based on particular features of the postembryonic stages of each family. Using comparisons between the phylogenetic tree and global geo-history, the location and timing of the early evolution of maternal care in postembryonic development and the extension of this care are estimated.

Physiological and Genetic Analysis of Leaves from the Resprouters of an Old Ginkgo biloba Tree

Ginkgo biloba is a well-known long-lived tree with important economical, ornamental and research value. New stems often resprout naturally from the trunk or roots of old trees to realize rejuvenation. However, the physiological and molecular mechanisms that underlie the resprouting from old trees are still unknown. In this study, we investigated a 544-year-old female ginkgo tree with vigorous resprouters along the trunk base in Yangzhou, China. We compared the morphological and physiological traits of leaves between resprouters (SL) and old branches (OL) and found a significantly higher thickness, fresh weight, and water content in SL. In particular, the depth and number of leaf lobes were dramatically increased in SL, suggesting the juvenile characteristics of sprouters in old ginkgo trees. Transcriptome data showed that the expression of genes related to photosynthetic capacity, the auxin signaling pathway, and stress-associated hormones was upregulated in SL. Importantly, levels of the most important secondary metabolites, including kaempferol, isorhamnetin, ginkgolide A, ginkgolide B, and ginkgolide C, were significantly higher in SL. We also identified high expression of key genes in SL, such as PAL and FLS, which are involved in flavonoid synthesis, and GGPS, which is involved in the synthesis of terpene lactones. These findings reveal the distinct physiological and molecular characteristics as well as secondary metabolite synthesis in leaves of resprouting stems in old ginkgo trees, providing new insight into rejuvenation physiology in old tree aging.

Machine learning prediction of mortality in the common desert shrub Encelia farinosa

Two populations of the common shrub Encelia farinosa in the northern and southern portions of the Mojave Desert have been surveyed each spring for nearly 40 years, providing an opportunity to assess highly variable shrub mortality in an arid ecosystem. Most of the newly established shrubs experienced mortality during the juvenile stage, with median survival time of about three years in both populations yet, a small number of shrubs lived for at least a dozen years or even decades. Applying machine learning techniques, we predicted shrub mortality at different life-history stages using random forest and logistic regression. First, we examined seedling survival to become yearlings (one-year old plants), finding that less than 3% of seedlings in both populations survived to become established yearling shrubs. Second, we predicted whether or not yearlings would die prior to reaching the mature adult stage (four years old). The models achieved an Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUC) in the 0.80 range for the Oatman population (southern Mojave Desert) and 0.90 range for the Death Valley population (northern Mojave Desert). We found yearling characteristics of smaller shrub size, low leaf coverage, and location in specific microsites associated with experiencing mortality before reaching the mature stage. Third, using only the average juvenile plant characteristics over the first four years of life, we predicted whether or not new adult shrubs were likely to experience mortality within the next eight years. The performance in this application achieved AUC in the 0.72 range for both populations. We found adult Encelia farinosa shrubs that had juvenile characteristics of smaller size, flowered less frequently, and had smaller inter-plant distances for the Oatman population were associated with increased mortality within the next eight years. Overall, the size of the shrub was the most important feature for the mortality modeling applications. No significant difference in AUC was found for random forest and logistic regression.

Juvenile Court Outcomes for Retail Offenders: An Examination of Offense Type, Sex, and Race/Ethnicity

Using all delinquency referrals in a Northeast state, the current study examined how youth charged with retail offenses differed from other offense types across multiple juvenile court outcomes (i.e., petition, adjudication, and disposition). The individual and joint effects of a juvenile’s sex and race/ethnicity were also investigated to determine whether these extralegal factors conditioned the relationship between offense type and juvenile system processing. Findings indicate that at each decision-making stage, retail offenders were significantly more likely to be treated with leniency compared to other offense types. The results also reinforced the continued impact of sex and race/ethnicity on shaping judicial outcomes at each stage. Implications regarding the processing of juvenile retail offenders and the influence of juvenile characteristics on juvenile court decision-making are discussed.

Age-Related Changes in Bone-Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

The use of stem cells is part of a strategy for the treatment of a large number of diseases. However, the source of the original stem cells for use is extremely important and determines their therapeutic potential. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have proven their therapeutic effectiveness when used in a number of pathological models. However, it remains an open question whether the chronological age of the donor organism affects the effectiveness of the use of MSC. The asymmetric division of stem cells, the result of which is some residential stem cells acquiring a non-senile phenotype, means that stem cells possess an intrinsic ability to preserve juvenile characteristics, implying an absence or at least remarkable retardation of senescence in stem cells. To test whether residential MSC senesce, we evaluated the physiological changes in the MSC from old rats, with a further comparison of the neuroprotective properties of MSC from young and old animals in a model of traumatic brain injury. We found that, while the effect of administration of MSC on lesion volume was minimal, functional recovery was remarkable, with the highest effect assigned to fetal cells; the lowest effect was recorded for cells isolated from adult rats and postnatal cells, having intermediate potency. MSC from the young rats were characterized by a faster growth than adult MSC, correlating with levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). However, there were no differences in respiratory activity of MSC from young and old rats, but young cells showed much higher glucose utilization than old ones. Autophagy flux was almost the same in both types of cells, but there were remarkable ultrastructural differences in old and young cells.

A Juvenile Specimen of Archaeorhynchus Sheds New Light on the Ontogeny of Basal Euornithines

The ontogenetic development of extant birds is characterized by rapid growth, bone fusion and an early onset of flight ability. In contrast, little is known about how these ontogenetic traits evolved in the bird stem lineage, and the available data pertains primarily to Enantiornithes. Here, we describe an almost complete skeleton of a juvenile euornithine bird (LNTU-WLMP-18) from the Early Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation (Aptian), which was discovered near Lamadong Town (Jianchang County, Liaoning, China). Despite its completeness, bone preservation is rather poor. Thus, to increase the contrast between bone tissue and matrix, we used cyan-red-based autofluorescence photography. The specimen is more or less articulated and exposed in ventral aspect. The jaws are edentulous, the coracoid bears a procoracoid process, and the ischium lacks a proximodorsal process. The pedal unguals are short and barely curved, indicating a ground-dwelling lifestyle. Feathers, including long primaries, are present as carbonized traces. Several characters indicate that LNTU-WLMP-18 is a juvenile: the bone surface has a coarsely striated texture and no fusion is evident between the carpals and metacarpals, between the tibia and the astragalus and calcaneum, or among the metatarsals. Although juvenile characters have the potential to impede accurate identification of the specimen, morphological comparisons and cladistic analysis identify LNTU-WLMP-18 as most likely referable to the basal euornithineArchaeorhynchus, which would make the specimen the first juvenile bird from the Jehol Group that could be assigned to a specific taxon. Based on its size and the incomplete ossification of the bone surface, LNTU-WLMP-18 represents the smallest and therefore youngest known individual of this genus. A statistical comparison of limb proportions shows that the forelimbs of LNTU-WLMP-18 are significantly shorter than the hindlimbs, while the forelimbs are longer than the hindlimbs in subadult and adult individuals. This is different from the situation in some Enantiornithes, in which the forelimbs exceed the length of the hindlimbs even in hatchlings. Similar to Enantiornithes,Archaeorhynchusprobably exhibit an early onset of flight ability, as indicated by the extensive wing plumage in LNTU-WLMP-18. Finally, the lack of gastroliths in the visceral cavity might indicate a dietary shift inArchaeorhynchusduring ontogeny. As a small-bodied, ground-dwelling, seed-eating bird with a precocial ontogeny,Archaeorhynchusfilled an ecological niche that later allowed early crown birds to survive the K-Pg mass extinction.

RNAi-Mediated Knockdown of Transcription Factor E93 in Nymphs of the Desert Locust (Schistocerca gregaria) Inhibits Adult Morphogenesis and Results in Supernumerary Juvenile Stages.

Postembryonic development of insects is coordinated by juvenile hormone (JH) together with ecdysteroids. Whereas the JH early response gene krüppel-homolog 1 (Kr-h1) plays a crucial role in the maintenance of juvenile characteristics during consecutive larval stages, the ecdysteroid-inducible early gene E93 appears to be a key factor promoting metamorphosis and adult morphogenesis. Here, we report on the developmental and molecular consequences of an RNAi-mediated knockdown of SgE93 in the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria, a hemimetabolan species. Our experimental data show that injection of gregarious locust nymphs with a double-stranded RNA construct targeting the SgE93 transcript inhibited the process of metamorphosis and instead led to supernumerary nymphal stages. These supernumerary nymphal instars still displayed juvenile morphological features, such as a nymphal color scheme and body shape, while they reached the physical body size of the adult locusts, or even surpassed it after the next supernumerary molt. Interestingly, when compared to control locusts, the total duration of the fifth and normally final nymphal (N5) stage was shorter than normal. This appeared to correspond with temporal and quantitative changes in hemolymph ecdysteroid levels, as well as with altered expression of the rate-limiting Halloween gene, Spook (SgSpo). In addition, the levels of the ecdysone receptor (SgEcR) and retinoïd X receptor (SgRXR) transcripts were altered, indicating that silencing SgE93 affects both ecdysteroid synthesis and signaling. Upon knockdown of SgE93, a very potent upregulation of the SgKr-h1 transcript levels was observed in both head and fat body, while no significant changes were detected in the transcript levels of SgJHAMT and SgCYP15A1, the enzymes that catalyze the two final steps in JH biosynthesis. Moreover, the process of molting was disturbed in these supernumerary nymphs. While attempting ecdysis to the next stage, 50% of the N6 and all N7 nymphal instars eventually died. S. gregaria is a very harmful, swarm-forming pest species that destroys crops and threatens food security in many of the world’s poorest countries. We believe that a better knowledge of the mechanisms of postembryonic development may contribute to the discovery of novel, more selective and sustainable strategies for controlling gregarious locust populations. In this context, identification of molecular target candidates that are capable of significantly reducing the fitness of this devastating swarming pest will be of crucial importance.

Exploring contrast-enhanced MRI findings of the clinically non-inflamed symptomatic pediatric wrist

BackgroundKnowledge of the synovial and tenosynovial appearance of the clinically non-arthritic symptomatic juvenile wrist using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is sparse.ObjectivesTo analyze contrast-enhanced MRI findings of the clinically non-inflamed symptomatic pediatric wrist, focusing on the enhancing synovial and tenosynovial membrane. To evaluate the coexistent presence of (teno)synovial enhancement, joint fluid, bony depressions and medullary changes suggestive of bone marrow edema.Materials and methodsWe included 20 children (15 girls; age range: 7.5–17.6 years) who underwent contrast-enhanced MRI of the wrist, based on initial clinical indication, and eventually turned out to be unaffected by arthritic or orthopedic disorders. Various imaging characteristics of the synovium, tenosynovium, joint fluid, bone tissue and bone marrow were evaluated using existing MRI scoring systems.ResultsIn 3/20 (15%) children, mild or moderate-severe synovial enhancement was observed and 2/20 (10%) children showed mild tenosynovial enhancement/thickening. Joint fluid (11/20 children; 55%), bony depressions (20/20 children; 100%) and medullary changes suggestive of bone marrow edema (6/20; 30%) were found in a substantial percentage of children. The most frequently observed combination of coexisting imaging characteristics was bony depressions with ≥2 mm joint fluid, which was found in 7/20 (35%) children. Simultaneous presence of synovial and tenosynovial enhancement/thickening, bony depressions and medullary changes suggestive of bone marrow edema was observed in one child.ConclusionSeveral juvenile idiopathic arthritis-relevant MRI characteristics can be observed in the clinically non-inflamed symptomatic pediatric wrist.

Childhood Experience - the Building Blocks of Life: A Psychoanalytical Study of Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s Fiction One Amazing Thing

Some people cannot love even their family members, while some seemingly normal people have few paradoxical qualities. Is there a connection between their strange behavior and their childhood experiences? What is the role of childhood in the character development of a person? The psychologists consider childhood experiences as the building blocks of a person’s personality. Freud believed that the child’s bond with the parents is the key to his/her psyche. Erikson divides a person’s life into eight stages of development. Every child faces a crisis or a challenge at each stage. The resolution of the crisis would lead to the acquisition of virtue, while failure caused maladaptive. Karen Horney also puts forth similar views. If the child’s basic need is not met, he/ she would either move towards people or move against or move away from people. This article examines the portrayal of children, their challenges, idiosyncrasies, and impact of their experiences on their psyche in the fiction One Amazing Thing, written by famous Indian American author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni from a psychoanalytical perspective. She has written a few children’s novels also. A master storyteller, she weaves reality, imagination, and psychology together and creates both adult and juvenile characters who are true to life.