Salt tolerance in mungbean is associated with controlling Na and Cl transport across roots, regulating Na and Cl accumulation in chloroplasts and maintaining high K in root and leaf mesophyll cells

Salinity tolerance requires coordinated responses encompassing salt exclusion in roots and tissue/cellular compartmentation of salt in leaves. We investigated the possible control points for salt ions transport in roots and tissue tolerance to Na+ and Cl- in leaves of two contrasting mungbean genotypes, salt-tolerant Jade AU and salt-sensitive BARI Mung-6, grown in nonsaline and saline (75 mM NaCl) soil. Cryo-SEM X-ray microanalysis was used to determine concentrations of Na, Cl, K, Ca, Mg, P, and S in various cell types in roots related to the development of apoplastic barriers, and in leaves related to photosynthetic performance. Jade AU exhibited superior salt exclusion by accumulating higher [Na] in the inner cortex, endodermis, and pericycle with reduced [Na] in xylem vessels and accumulating [Cl] in cortical cell vacuoles compared to BARI Mung-6. Jade AU maintained higher [K] in root cells than BARI Mung-6. In leaves, Jade AU maintained lower [Na] and [Cl] in chloroplasts and preferentially accumulated [K] in mesophyll cells than BARI Mung-6, resulting in higher photosynthetic efficiency. Salinity tolerance in Jade AU was associated with shoot Na and Cl exclusion, effective regulation of Na and Cl accumulation in chloroplasts, and maintenance of high K in root and leaf mesophyll cells.

Genetic diversity and candidate genes for transient waterlogging tolerance in mungbean at the germination and seedling stages

Mungbean [Vigna radiata var. radiata (L.) Wilczek] production in Asia is detrimentally affected by transient soil waterlogging caused by unseasonal and increasingly frequent extreme precipitation events. While mungbean exhibits sensitivity to waterlogging, there has been insufficient exploration of germplasm for waterlogging tolerance, as well as limited investigation into the genetic basis for tolerance to identify valuable loci. This research investigated the diversity of transient waterlogging tolerance in a mini-core germplasm collection of mungbean and identified candidate genes for adaptive traits of interest using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) at two critical stages of growth: germination and seedling stage (i.e., once the first trifoliate leaf had fully-expanded). In a temperature-controlled glasshouse, 292 genotypes were screened for tolerance after (i) 4 days of waterlogging followed by 7 days of recovery at the germination stage and (ii) 8 days of waterlogging followed by 7 days of recovery at the seedling stage. Tolerance was measured against drained controls. GWAS was conducted using 3,522 high-quality DArTseq-derived SNPs, revealing five significant associations with five phenotypic traits indicating improved tolerance. Waterlogging tolerance was positively correlated with the formation of adventitious roots and higher dry masses. FGGY carbohydrate kinase domain-containing protein was identified as a candidate gene for adventitious rooting and mRNA-uncharacterized LOC111241851, Caffeoyl-CoA O-methyltransferase At4g26220 and MORC family CW-type zinc finger protein 3 and zinc finger protein 2B genes for shoot, root, and total dry matter production. Moderate to high broad-sense heritability was exhibited for all phenotypic traits, including seed emergence (81%), adventitious rooting (56%), shoot dry mass (81%), root dry mass (79%) and SPAD chlorophyll content (70%). The heritability estimates, marker-trait associations, and identification of sources of waterlogging tolerant germplasm from this study demonstrate high potential for marker-assisted selection of tolerance traits to accelerate breeding of climate-resilient mungbean varieties.

Cassava Witches' Broom Disease in Southeast Asia: A Review of Its Distribution and Associated Symptoms

Cassava witches' broom disease (CWBD) is one of the main diseases of cassava in Southeast Asia (SEA). Affected cassava plants show reduced internodal length and proliferation of leaves (phyllody) in the middle and top part of the plant, which results in reduced root yields of 50% or more. It is thought to be caused by phytoplasma; however, despite its widespread distribution in SEA still little is known about CWBD pathology. The overarching goal of this study was to review and corroborate published information on CWBD biology and epidemiology considering recent field observations. We report the following: (1) CWBD symptoms are conserved and persistent in SEA and are distinct from what has been reported as witches' broom in Argentina and Brazil. (2) In comparison with cassava mosaic disease, another major disease of cassava in SEA, symptoms of CWBD develop later. (3) Phytoplasma detected in CWBD-affected plants belong to different ribosomal groups and there is no association study available indicating phytoplasma as the causing agent of CWBD. These findings are essential clues for designing surveillance and management strategies and for future studies to better understand the biology, tissue localization and spatial spread of CWBD in SEA and other potential risk areas.

Combinational Variation Temperature and Soil Water Response of Stomata and Biomass Production in Maize, Millet, Sorghum and Rice

Environmental responses of stomatal conductance (gs) as basic information for a photosynthesis-transpiration-coupled model have been increasing under global warming. This study identified the impact of gs behavior under different soil water statuses and temperatures in rice, maize, millet, and sorghum. The experiments consisted of various soil moisture statuses from flooding to drying and combination of soil moisture status and temperature. There was a reduction in shoot biomass of maize and sorghum caused by decreasing of gs, photosynthesis (A), and transpiration (E) in early imposed waterlogging without dependent temperature, whereas millet and rice were dependent on temperature variation. The effect of gradual soil drying, gs, A, and E of maize, millet, and sorghum were caused by low temperature, except rice. The impact of the combination of various soil water statuses and temperatures on gs is important for the trade-off between A and E, and consequently shoot biomass. However, we discovered that an ability to sustain gs is essential for photo assimilation and maintaining leaf temperature through evapotranspiration for biomass production, a mechanism of crop avoidance in variable soil water status and temperature.

Response of Mungbean (cvs. Celera II-AU and Jade-AU) and Blackgram (cv. Onyx-AU) to Transient Waterlogging

Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] and blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] are important crops for smallholder farmers in tropical and subtropical regions. Production of both crops is affected by unexpected and increasingly frequent extreme precipitation events, which result in transient soil waterlogging. This study aimed to compare the waterlogging tolerance of mungbean and blackgram genotypes under the varying duration of waterlogging stress at germination and seedling stages. We evaluated the responses to different durations of transient waterlogging in a sandy clay loam under temperature-controlled glasshouse conditions. Waterlogging durations were 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 days during germination and 0, 2, 4, 8, and 16 days during the seedling stage. We used two mungbean genotypes (green testa), Celera II-AU (small-seeded), and Jade-AU (large-seeded), contrasting in seed size and hypocotyl pigmentation, and a blackgram genotype (black testa), Onyx-AU. Waterlogging reduced soil redox potential, delayed or even prevented germination, decreased seedling establishment, and affected shoot and root development. In the seedlings waterlogged (WL) at 15 days after sowing (DAS), adventitious root formation and crown nodulation varied between the genotypes, and 16 days of waterlogging substantially reduced growth but did not result in plant death. Plants in soil with waterlogging for 8-16 days followed by drainage and sampling at 39 DAS had reduced shoot and root dry mass by 60-65% in mungbean and 40% in blackgram compared with continuously drained controls, due at least in part to fewer lateral roots. Soil plant analysis development (SPAD) chlorophyll content was also reduced. Onyx-AU, a blackgram genotype, was more tolerant to transient waterlogging than Jade-AU and Celera II-AU in both growth stages. Of the two mungbean genotypes, Celera II-AU had a greater seedling establishment than Jade-AU post waterlogging imposed at sowing. In contrast, Jade-AU had more plant biomass and greater recovery growth than Celera II-AU after waterlogging and recovery during the seedling stage. Both species were delayed in emergence in response to the shorter periods of transient waterlogging at germination, and with the longer waterlogging germination and emergence failed, whereas at the seedling stage both showed adaptation by the formation of adventitious roots.

Tolerance of four grain legume species to waterlogging, hypoxia and anoxia at germination and recovery

Legume seeds, when relay sown following rice, may suffer from soil waterlogging and the associated hypoxia or even anoxia. This study evaluated the tolerance of grain legume species, grass pea (three genotypes), lentil (two genotypes), faba bean (two genotypes) and field pea (one genotype), to soil waterlogging in a glasshouse, to anoxia and hypoxia in temperature-controlled room at germination and seedling stages. Changes in oxygen in the surface layers of soil, with time after waterlogging, were measured by microelectrode profiling. The soil profiling showed that soil oxygen declined and then stabilized by the fourth day after waterlogging and oxygen was not detected at 8 mm below the soil surface. Germination of seeds under waterlogging for up to 12 days and seedling survival after the soil was drained for up to 36 days were measured in pot experiments. Seed germination and/or survival in anoxia (N₂-flushed solutions) and hypoxia (1.0 and 2.5 kPa oxygen) were evaluated, and so were post-anoxia or post-hypoxia recoveries, all in comparison with aerated controls. Lentil had higher seedling emergence (55 %) than the other species during soil waterlogging. However, lentil had lower seedling survival (9 %) than grass pea (28 %) during recovery following soil drainage. Grass pea seeds were more tolerant of anoxia and of hypoxia than the seeds of the three other species. In conclusion, grass pea, with higher percent germination and seedling survival during recovery, is more tolerant to waterlogging and subsequent soil drainage than the three other grain legume species. Grass pea was also more tolerant of hypoxia and of anoxia at the seed germination stage. These findings demonstrate the superior waterlogging tolerance of grass pea in relay sowing, as compared with the other grain legumes.

Cassava breeding and agronomy in Asia: 50 years of history and future directions

In Asia, cassava (Manihot esculenta) is cultivated by more than 8 million farmers, driving the rural economy of many countries. The International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), in partnership with national agricultural research institutes (NARIs), instigated breeding and agronomic research in Asia, 1983. The breeding program has successfully released high-yielding cultivars resulting in an average yield increase from 13.0 t ha-1 in 1996 to 21.3 t ha-1 in 2016, with significant economic benefits. Following the success in increasing yields, cassava breeding has turned its focus to higher-value traits, such as waxy cassava, to reach new market niches. More recently, building resistance to invasive pests and diseases has become a top priority due to the emergent threat of cassava mosaic disease (CMD). The agronomic research involves driving profitability with advanced technologies focusing on better agronomic management practices thereby maintaining sustainable production systems. Remote sensing technologies are being tested for trait discovery and large-scale field evaluation of cassava. In summary, cassava breeding in Asia is driven by a combination of food and market demand with technological innovations to increase the productivity. Further, exploration in the potential of data-driven agriculture is needed to empower researchers and producers for sustainable advancement.

Waterlogging Tolerance at Germination in Field Pea: Variability, Genetic Control, and Indirect Selection

In the Eastern Gangetic Plain of South Asia field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is often grown as a relay crop where soil waterlogging (WL) causes germination failure. To assess if selection for WL tolerance is feasible, we studied the response to WL stress at germination stage in a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population from a bi-parental cross between WL-contrasting parents and in a diversity panel to identify extreme phenotypes, understand the genetics of WL tolerance and find traits for possible use in indirect selection. The RIL population and the diversity panel were screened to test the ability of germination under both waterlogged and drained soils. A total of 50, most WL tolerant and sensitive, genotypes from each of both the RIL and the diversity panel were further evaluated to assay testa integrity/leakage in CaSO₄ solution. Morphological characterization of both populations was undertaken. A wide range of variation in the ability to germination in waterlogged soil was observed in the RIL population (6-93%) and the diversity panel (5-100%) with a high broad-sense heritability (H ² > 85%). The variation was continuously distributed indicating polygenic control. Most genotypes with a dark colored testa (90%) were WL tolerant, whereas those with a light colored testa were all WL sensitive in both the RIL population and diversity panel. Testa integrity, measured by electrical conductivity of the leakage solute, was strongly associated with WL tolerance in the RIL population (r _G = -1.00) and the diversity panel (r _G = -0.90). Therefore, testa integrity can be effectively used in indirect selection for WL tolerance. Response to selection for WL tolerance at germination is confidently predicted enabling the adaptation of the ancient model pea to extreme precipitation events at germination.

Rice acclimation to soil flooding: Low concentrations of organic acids can trigger a barrier to radial oxygen loss in roots

Waterlogged soils contain monocarboxylic acids produced by anaerobic microorganisms. These "organic acids" can accumulate to phytotoxic levels and promote development of a barrier to radial O₂ loss (ROL) in roots of some wetland species. Environmental cues triggering root ROL barrier induction, a feature that together with tissue gas-filled porosity facilitates internal aeration, are important to elucidate for knowledge of plant stress physiology. We tested the hypothesis that comparatively low, non-toxic, concentrations of acetic, propionic, butyric, and/or hexanoic acids might induce root ROL barrier formation in rice. Each organic acid, individually, triggered the ROL barrier in roots but with no effect (acetic or butyric acids) or with only slight effects (propionic or hexanoic acids) on root extension. Transcripts of four genes related to suberin biosynthesis were increased by some of the organic acid treatments. Respiration in root tissues was not, or moderately, inhibited. Beyond a narrow concentration range, however, respiration declined exponentially and the order (least to greatest) for EC₅₀ (effective concentration for 50% inhibition) was butyric, propionic, acetic, then hexanoic acid. An understanding of the environmental cue for root ROL barrier induction should enhance future work to elucidate the molecular regulation of this root trait contributing to plant flooding tolerance.

Diel O2 Dynamics in Partially and Completely Submerged Deepwater Rice: Leaf Gas Films Enhance Internodal O2 Status, Influence Gene Expression and Accelerate Stem Elongation for 'Snorkelling' during Submergence

Deepwater rice has a remarkable shoot elongation response to partial submergence. Shoot elongation to maintain air-contact enables 'snorkelling' of O2 to submerged organs. Previous research has focused on partial submergence of deepwater rice. We tested the hypothesis that leaf gas films enhance internode O2 status and stem elongation of deepwater rice when completely submerged. Diel patterns of O2 partial pressure (pO2) were measured in internodes of deepwater rice when partially or completely submerged, and with or without gas films on leaves, for the completely submerged plants. We also took measurements for paddy rice. Deepwater rice elongated during complete submergence and the shoot tops emerged. Leaf gas films improved O2 entry during the night, preventing anoxia in stems, which is of importance for elongation of the submerged shoots. Expressions of O2 deprivation inducible genes were upregulated in completely submerged plants during the night, and more so when gas films were removed from the leaves. Diel O2 dynamics showed similar patterns in paddy and deepwater rice. We demonstrated that shoot tops in air enabled 'snorkelling' and increased O2 in internodes of both rice ecotypes; however, 'snorkelling' was achieved only by rapid shoot elongation by deepwater rice, but not by paddy rice.

Changes in gene expression during germination reveal pea genotypes with either "quiescence" or "escape" mechanisms of waterlogging tolerance

Waterlogging causes germination failure in pea (Pisum sativum L.). Three genotypes (BARI Motorshuti-3, Natore local-2 [NL-2], and Kaspa) contrasting in ability to germinate in waterlogged soil were exposed to different durations of waterlogging. Whole genome RNAseq was employed to capture differentially expressing genes. The ability to germinate in waterlogged soil was associated with testa colour and testa membrane integrity as confirmed by electrical conductivity measurements. Genotypes Kaspa and NL-2 displayed different mechanisms of tolerance. In Kaspa, an energy conserving strategy was indicated by a strong upregulation of tyrosine protein kinsase and down regulation of linoleate 9S-lipoxygenase 5, a fat metabolism gene. In contrast, a faster energy utilization strategy was suggested in NL-2 by the marked upregulation of a subtilase family protein and peroxisomal adenine nucleotide carrier 2, a fat metabolizing gene. Waterlogging susceptibility in germinating seeds of genotype BARI Motorshuti-3 was linked to upregulation of a kunitz-type trypsin/protease inhibitor that blocks protein metabolism and may lead to excessive lipid metabolism and the membrane leakage associated with waterlogging damage. Pathway analyses based on gene ontologies showed seed storage protein metabolism as upregulated in tolerant genotypes and downregulated in the sensitive genotype. Understanding the tolerance mechanism provides a platform to breed for adaptation to waterlogging stress at germination in pea.

Rice leaf hydrophobicity and gas films are conferred by a wax synthesis gene (LGF1) and contribute to flood tolerance

Floods impede gas (O₂ and CO₂ ) exchange between plants and the environment. A mechanism to enhance plant gas exchange under water comprises gas films on hydrophobic leaves, but the genetic regulation of this mechanism is unknown. We used a rice mutant (dripping wet leaf 7, drp7) which does not retain gas films on leaves, and its wild-type (Kinmaze), in gene discovery for this trait. Gene complementation was tested in transgenic lines. Functional properties of leaves as related to gas film retention and underwater photosynthesis were evaluated. Leaf Gas Film 1 (LGF1) was identified as the gene determining leaf gas films. LGF1 regulates C30 primary alcohol synthesis, which is necessary for abundant epicuticular wax platelets, leaf hydrophobicity and gas films on submerged leaves. This trait enhanced underwater photosynthesis 8.2-fold and contributes to submergence tolerance. Gene function was verified by a complementation test of LGF1 expressed in the drp7 mutant background, which restored C30 primary alcohol synthesis, wax platelet abundance, leaf hydrophobicity, gas film retention, and underwater photosynthesis. The discovery of LGF1 provides an opportunity to better understand variation amongst rice genotypes for gas film retention ability and to target various alleles in breeding for improved submergence tolerance for yield stability in flood-prone areas.

A major locus involved in the formation of the radial oxygen loss barrier in adventitious roots of teosinte Zea nicaraguensis is located on the short-arm of chromosome 3

A radial oxygen loss (ROL) barrier in roots of waterlogging-tolerant plants promotes oxygen movement via aerenchyma to the root tip, and impedes soil phytotoxin entry. The molecular mechanism and genetic regulation of ROL barrier formation are largely unknown. Zea nicaraguensis, a waterlogging-tolerant wild relative of maize (Zea mays ssp. mays), forms a tight ROL barrier in its roots when waterlogged. We used Z. nicaraguensis chromosome segment introgression lines (ILs) in maize (inbred line Mi29) to elucidate the chromosomal region involved in regulating root ROL barrier formation. A segment of the short-arm of chromosome 3 of Z. nicaraguensis conferred ROL barrier formation in the genetic background of maize. This chromosome segment also decreased apoplastic solute permeability across the hypodermis/exodermis. However, the IL and maize were similar for suberin staining in the hypodermis/exodermis at 40 mm and further behind the root tip. Z. nicaraguensis contained suberin in the hypodermis/exodermis at 20 mm and lignin at the epidermis. The IL with ROL barrier, however, did not contain lignin in the epidermis. Discovery of the Z. nicaraguensis chromosomal region responsible for root ROL barrier formation has improved knowledge of this trait and is an important step towards improvement of waterlogging tolerance in maize.

A major locus involved in the formation of the radial oxygen loss barrier in adventitious roots of teosinte Zea nicaraguensis is located on the short-arm of chromosome 3

A radial oxygen loss (ROL) barrier in roots of waterlogging-tolerant plants promotes oxygen movement via aerenchyma to the root tip, and impedes soil phytotoxin entry. The molecular mechanism and genetic regulation of ROL barrier formation are largely unknown. Zea nicaraguensis, a waterlogging-tolerant wild relative of maize (Zea mays ssp. mays), forms a tight ROL barrier in its roots when waterlogged. We used Z. nicaraguensis chromosome segment introgression lines (ILs) in maize (inbred line Mi29) to elucidate the chromosomal region involved in regulating root ROL barrier formation. A segment of the short-arm of chromosome 3 of Z. nicaraguensis conferred ROL barrier formation in the genetic background of maize. This chromosome segment also decreased apoplastic solute permeability across the hypodermis/exodermis. However, the IL and maize were similar for suberin staining in the hypodermis/exodermis at 40 mm and further behind the root tip. Z. nicaraguensis contained suberin in the hypodermis/exodermis at 20 mm and lignin at the epidermis. The IL with ROL barrier, however, did not contain lignin in the epidermis. Discovery of the Z. nicaraguensis chromosomal region responsible for root ROL barrier formation has improved knowledge of this trait and is an important step towards improvement of waterlogging tolerance in maize.

Tolerance of three grain legume species to transient waterlogging

Waterlogging reduces the yield of food crops. Tolerance to waterlogging could vary between and within species. This study aimed to quantify tolerance to soil waterlogging in two divergent genotypes of pea (Pisum sativum), two of lentil (Lens culinaris) and a grasspea (Lathyrus sativus) control at germination and during vegetative growth. Following germination, seeds were grown for 14 days in soil waterlogged with the water table 10 mm below the surface, and then by draining the pots and allowing to recover for 21 days-to be compared with 35 days of continuous waterlogging. In both pea and lentil, the pair of genotypes contrasted widely with large-seeded pea genotype Kaspa and lentil genotype Nugget showing higher (2-fold) root porosity and less effect on shoot nitrogen content under waterlogging than the other genotypes (NPE and ATC). During recovery, the same two genotypes-Kaspa pea and Nugget lentil-also recovered better than their smaller-seeded species pairs. Soil waterlogging at 10 mm depth had no significant effect on shoot and root dry mass after 14 days. Root penetration into waterlogged soil was restricted to ∼100 mm depth and its distribution altered for pea and lentil genotypes but not for grasspea. Within the small sample studied, we demonstrated a significant genetic variation in both pea and lentil in tolerance to waterlogging after germination and subsequent recovery for the first time. Screening of additional pea and lentil germplasm for waterlogging conditions is clearly warranted.

Microarray analysis of laser-microdissected tissues indicates the biosynthesis of suberin in the outer part of roots during formation of a barrier to radial oxygen loss in rice (Oryza sativa)

Internal aeration is crucial for root growth in waterlogged soil. A barrier to radial oxygen loss (ROL) can enhance long-distance oxygen transport via the aerenchyma to the root tip; a higher oxygen concentration at the apex enables root growth into anoxic soil. The ROL barrier is formed within the outer part of roots (OPR). Suberin and/or lignin deposited in cell walls are thought to contribute to the barrier, but it is unclear which compound is the main constituent. This study describes gene expression profiles during ROL barrier formation in rice roots to determine the relative responses of suberin and/or lignin biosyntheses for the barrier. OPR tissues were isolated by laser microdissection and their transcripts were analysed by microarray. A total of 128 genes were significantly up- or downregulated in the OPR during the barrier formation. Genes associated with suberin biosynthesis were strongly upregulated, whereas genes associated with lignin biosynthesis were not. By an ab initio analysis of the promoters of the upregulated genes, the putative cis-elements that could be associated with transcription factors, WRKY, AP2/ERF, NAC, bZIP, MYB, CBT/DREB, and MADS, were elucidated. They were particularly associated with the expression of transcription factor genes containing WRKY, AP2, and MYB domains. A semiquantitative reverse-transcription PCR analysis of genes associated with suberin biosynthesis (WRKY, CYP, and GPAT) confirmed that they were highly expressed during ROL barrier formation. Overall, these results suggest that suberin is a major constituent of the ROL barrier in roots of rice.

Enhanced formation of aerenchyma and induction of a barrier to radial oxygen loss in adventitious roots of Zea nicaraguensis contribute to its waterlogging tolerance as compared with maize (Zea mays ssp. mays)

Enhancement of oxygen transport from shoot to root tip by the formation of aerenchyma and also a barrier to radial oxygen loss (ROL) in roots is common in waterlogging-tolerant plants. Zea nicaraguensis (teosinte), a wild relative of maize (Zea mays ssp. mays), grows in waterlogged soils. We investigated the formation of aerenchyma and ROL barrier induction in roots of Z. nicaraguensis, in comparison with roots of maize (inbred line Mi29), in a pot soil system and in hydroponics. Furthermore, depositions of suberin in the exodermis/hypodermis and lignin in the epidermis of adventitious roots of Z. nicaraguensis and maize grown in aerated or stagnant deoxygenated nutrient solution were studied. Growth of maize was more adversely affected by low oxygen in the root zone (waterlogged soil or stagnant deoxygenated nutrient solution) compared with Z. nicaraguensis. In stagnant deoxygenated solution, Z. nicaraguensis was superior to maize in transporting oxygen from shoot base to root tip due to formation of larger aerenchyma and a stronger barrier to ROL in adventitious roots. The relationships between the ROL barrier formation and suberin and lignin depositions in roots are discussed. The ROL barrier, in addition to aerenchyma, would contribute to the waterlogging tolerance of Z. nicaraguensis.

The role of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor gene variants in childhood-onset aggression

Aggressive antisocial behaviours are the most common reasons why adolescents are referred to mental health clinics. Antisocial behaviours are costly in social and financial terms. The aetiology of aggressive behaviours is unknown but growing evidence suggests it is heritable, and certain genetic variants have been implicated as contributing factors. The purpose of this study was to determine whether genes regulating the hormone oxytocin (OXT) were associated with aggressive antisocial behaviour. The case-control study sample consisted of 160 cases of children displaying extreme, persistent and pervasive aggressive behaviour. This case sample was compared with 160 adult controls. We used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the genotype for three oxytocin gene (OXT) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): rs3761248, rs4813625 and rs877172; and five oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) SNPs: rs6770632, rs11476, rs1042778, rs237902 and rs53576. Genotypic analyses were performed using stata, while differences in haplotypic and allelic frequencies were analysed using Unphased. We also performed within-case analyses (n = 236 aggressive cases) examining genotypic and allelic associations with callous-unemotional (CU) scores (as measured by the psychopathic screening device). OXTR SNPs rs6770632 and rs1042778 may be associated with extreme, persistent and pervasive aggressive behaviours in females and males, respectively. These and haplotype results suggest gender-specific effects of SNPs. No significant differences were detected with respect to CU behaviours. These results may help to elucidate the biochemical pathways associated with aggressive behaviours, which may aid in the development of novel medications.

Transfer of the barrier to radial oxygen loss in roots of Hordeum marinum to wheat (Triticum aestivum): evaluation of four H. marinum-wheat amphiploids

• Wide hybridization of waterlogging-tolerant Hordeum marinum with wheat (Triticum aestivum) to produce an amphiploid might be one approach to improve waterlogging tolerance in wheat. • Growth, root aerenchyma and porosity, and radial oxygen loss (ROL) along roots were measured in four H. marinum-wheat amphiploids and their parents (four accessions of H. marinum and Chinese Spring wheat) in aerated or stagnant nutrient solution. A soil experiment was also conducted. • Hordeum marinum maintained shoot dry mass in stagnant nutrient solution, whereas the growth of wheat was markedly reduced (40% of aerated control). Two of the four amphiploids were more tolerant than wheat (shoot dry masses of 59-72% of aerated controls). The porosity of adventitious roots when in stagnant solution was higher in H. marinum (19-25%) and the four amphiploids (20-24%) than in wheat (16%). In stagnant solution, adventitious roots of H. marinum formed a strong ROL barrier in basal zones, whereas, in wheat, the barrier was weak. Two amphiploids formed a strong ROL barrier and two formed a moderate barrier when in stagnant solution. • This study demonstrates the transfer of higher root porosity and a barrier to ROL from H. marinum to wheat through wide hybridization and the production of H. marinum-wheat amphiploids.

Paediatric cholecystectomy: Shifting goalposts in the laparoscopic era

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice in symptomatic paediatric cholelithiasis. However, controversy exists about its role in asymptomatic cholelithiasis and biliary dyskinesia. We have reviewed the experiences of two UK paediatric centres with laparoscopic cholecystectomy over an 8.5 year period and critically evaluated the indications and outcomes of surgery.

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy by a single surgeon at the Royal Aberdeen and Royal Alexandra Hospitals between May 1996 to August 2003 and September 2003 to December 2005, respectively, were studied. Information was extracted from prospectively held databases and analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 27 cholecystectomies were performed during the period of study. The mean age of patients was 11.7 years with a female preponderance. Symptomatic idiopathic cholelithiasis was the main indication for surgery (14). Cholecystectomy was also performed for haemolytic disease (3), acute recurrent pancreatitis of unknown cause (2), gallbladder trauma (1), and for asymptomatic calcific non-resolving stones (7). All patients were investigated with ultrasound scans with four patients undergoing magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) for suspected common bile duct (CBD) stones. A standard four-port approach was used with the gallbladder extracted through the umbilical port. The mean operative time in the latter 13 cases was 105 minutes with a median postoperative stay of one day for the whole series. Histology revealed chronic cholecystitis in all but three cases. All patients were discharged after a six-month follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The advent of laparoscopy has resulted in an expansion of the traditional indications for cholecystectomy. MRCP is a useful investigation in selected children to exclude choledocholithiasis and avoid intraoperative cholangiography. There appears to be no clear correlation between histology and presenting symptoms. The natural history of asymptomatic gallstones in children is not known although a consensus is emerging to support cholecystectomy for all calcific non-resolving gallstones.

Tolerance of Hordeum marinum accessions to O2 deficiency, salinity and these stresses combined

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

When root-zone O(2) deficiency occurs together with salinity, regulation of shoot ion concentrations is compromised even more than under salinity alone. Tolerance was evaluated amongst 34 accessions of Hordeum marinum, a wild species in the Triticeae, to combined salinity and root-zone O(2) deficiency. Interest in H. marinum arises from the potential to use it as a donor for abiotic stress tolerance into wheat.

METHODS

Two batches of 17 H. marinum accessions, from (1) the Nordic Gene Bank and (2) the wheat belt of Western Australia, were exposed to 0.2 or 200 mol m(-3) NaCl in aerated or stagnant nutrient solution for 28-29 d. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) was included as a sensitive check species. Growth, root porosity, root radial O(2) loss (ROL) and leaf ion (Na(+), K(+), Cl(-)) concentrations were determined.

KEY RESULTS

Owing to space constraints, this report is focused mainly on the accessions from the Nordic Gene Bank. The 17 accessions varied in tolerance; relative growth rate was reduced by 2-38 % in stagnant solution, by 8-42 % in saline solution (aerated) and by 39-71 % in stagnant plus saline treatment. When in stagnant solution, porosity of adventitious roots was 24-33 %; salinity decreased the root porosity in some accessions, but had no effect in others. Roots grown in stagnant solution formed a barrier to ROL, but variation existed amongst accessions in apparent barrier 'strength'. Leaf Na(+) concentration was 142-692 micromol g(-1) d. wt for plants in saline solution (aerated), and only increased to 247-748 micromol g(-1) d. wt in the stagnant plus saline treatment. Leaf Cl(-) also showed only small effects of stagnant plus saline treatment, compared with saline alone. In comparison with H. marinum, wheat was more adversely affected by each stress alone, and particularly when combined; growth reductions were greater, adventitious root porosity was 21 %, it lacked a barrier to ROL, leaf K(+) declined to lower levels, and leaf Na(+) and Cl(-) concentrations were 3.1-9-fold and 2.8-6-fold higher, respectively, in wheat.

CONCLUSIONS

Stagnant treatment plus salinity reduced growth more than salinity alone, or stagnant alone, but some accessions of H. marinum were still relatively tolerant of these combined stresses, maintaining Na(+) and Cl(-) 'exclusion' even in an O(2)-deficient, saline rooting medium.

Surgical management of anal fistulae: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The anal fistula has been a common surgical ailment reported since the time of Hippocrates but little systematic evidence exists on its management. We aimed to systematically review the available studies relating to the surgical management of anal fistulas.

METHOD

Studies were identified from PubMED, EMBASE, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.Gov and Current Controlled Trials. All uncontrolled, nonrandomized, retrospective studies, duplications or those unrelated to the surgical management of anal fistulas were excluded.

RESULTS

The search strategy revealed 443 trials. After exclusions 21 randomized controlled trials remained evaluating: fistulotomy vs fistulectomy (n = 2), seton treatment (n = 3), marsupialization (n = 2), glue therapy (n = 3), anal flaps (n = 3), radiosurgical approaches (n = 2), fistulotomy/fistulectomy at time of abscess incision (n = 5) and intra-operative anal retractors (n = 1). Two meta-analyses evaluating incision and drainage alone vs incision + fistulotomy were obtained.

CONCLUSION

Marsupialization after fistulotomy reduces bleeding and allows for faster healing. Results from small trials suggest flap repair may be no worse than fistulotomy in terms of healing rates but this requires confirmation. Flap repair combined with fibrin glue treatment of fistulae may increase failure rates. Radiofrequency fistulotomy produces less pain on the first postoperative day and may allow for speedier healing. Major gaps remain in our understanding of anal fistula surgery.

Salt tolerance in a Hordeum marinum-Triticum aestivum amphiploid, and its parents

Growth, grain production, and physiological traits were evaluated for Hordeum marinum, Triticum aestivum (cv. Chinese Spring), and a H. marinum-T. aestivum amphiploid, when exposed to NaCl treatments in a nutrient solution. H. marinum was more salt tolerant than T. aestivum and the amphiploid was intermediate, both for vegetative growth and relative grain production. H. marinum was best able to 'exclude' Na(+) and Cl(-), particularly at high external NaCl. At 300 mM NaCl, concentrations of Na(+) (153 micromol g(-1) dry mass) and Cl(-) (75 micromol g(-1) dry mass) in the youngest fully-expanded leaf blade of H. marinum were, respectively, only 7% and 4% of those in T. aestivum; and in the amphiploid the Na(+) and Cl(-) concentrations were 39% and 36% of those in T. aestivum. Glycinebetaine and proline concentrations in the youngest fully-expanded leaf blade of plants exposed to 200 mM NaCl were highest in H. marinum (128 and 60 micromol g(-1) dry mass, respectively), lowest in T. aestivum (85 and 37 micromol g(-1) dry mass), and intermediate in the amphiploid (108 and 54 micromol g(-1) dry mass). Thus, salt tolerance of H. marinum was expressed in the H. marinum-T. aestivum amphiploid.