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Future-oriented emotions such as anticipatory affect (i.e., current affect experienced regarding a potential future outcome) and anticipated affect (i.e., expectations about potential future affect), are uniquely associated with health decision-making (e.g., electing to receive results of genomic testing). This study investigated the degree to which negative anticipated and anticipatory emotions predict health decision making over time, and whether such emotions predict social, emotional, and behavioral responses to anticipated information (e.g., genomic testing results). 461 participants (M age = 63.9, SD = 5.61, 46% female) in a genomic sequencing cohort who elected to receive genomic sequencing (carrier) results were included in the current study. Anticipated and anticipatory affect about sequencing results were assessed at baseline. Psychological and behavioral responses to sequencing results, including participants' reported anxiety, decisional conflict, and distress about sequencing results, whether they shared results with family members, and their intentions to continue learning results in the future, were collected immediately, one month, and/or six months after receiving results. More negative anticipated and anticipatory affect at baseline was significantly and independently associated with lower intentions to continue learning results in the future, as well as higher levels of anxiety and uncertainty at multiple time points after receiving results. Anticipated negative affect was also associated with greater decisional conflict, and anticipatory negative affect was also associated with greater distress after receiving results. Future-oriented emotions may play an important role in decisions that unfold over time, with implications for genomic testing, behavioral medicine, and health decision-making broadly., Author(s): Arielle S. Gillman [sup.1] , Irina A. Iles [sup.2] , William M. P. Klein [sup.2] , Barbara B. Biesecker [sup.3] , Katie L. Lewis [sup.4] , Leslie G. Biesecker [...]

Gonadal and gonosomal mosaicism describe phenomena in which a seemingly healthy individual carries a genetic variant in a subset of their gonadal tissue or gonadal and somatic tissue(s), respectively, with risk of transmitting the variant to their offspring. In families with one or more affected offspring, occurrence of the same apparently de novo variants can be an indicator of mosaicism in either parent. Panel-based deep sequencing has the capacity to detect low-level mosaic variants with coverage exceeding the typical limit of detection provided by current, readily available sequencing techniques. In this study, we report three families with more than one affected offspring with either confirmed or apparent parental gonosomal or gonadal mosaicism for PIK3CD pathogenic variants. Data from targeted deep sequencing was suggestive of low-level maternal gonosomal mosaicism in Family 1. Through this approach we did not detect pathogenic variants in PIK3CD from parental samples in Family 2 and Family 3. We conclude that mosaicism was likely confined to the maternal gonads in Family 2. Subsequent long-read genome sequencing in Family 3 showed that the paternal chromosome harbored the pathogenic variant in PIK3CD in both affected children, consistent with paternal gonadal mosaicism. Detection of parental mosaic variants enables accurate risk assessment, informs reproductive decision-making, and provides helpful context to inform clinical management in families with PIK3CD pathogenic variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although romantic couple concordance has been demonstrated across a wide array of health behaviors, little research has examined dyadic concordance in health beliefs. This study examined the extent to which cohabitating romantic dyads' attitudes and beliefs coincide (i.e., dyadic concordance) in addition to how well they predict intentions to learn genomic sequencing results. The actor-partner interdependence model was applied to cross-sectional data from 81 dyads in an exome sequencing study who were surveyed about their risk perceptions, worry, information avoidance, attitudes, and intentions toward learning carrier results. Information avoidance tendencies were positively correlated between partners, but there was low concordance on other beliefs. Individuals' attitudes and information avoidance predicted their own intentions to learn results. Additionally, partners' information avoidance tendencies predicted their partner's intentions to learn results. Future research should explore mechanisms through which one's partner's information avoidance may affect one's own intentions and behaviors., Author(s): Chloe O. Huelsnitz [sup.1] , Erin Turbitt [sup.2] , Jennifer M. Taber [sup.3] , Katie L. Lewis [sup.4] , Leslie G. Biesecker [sup.4] , Barbara B. Biesecker [sup.5] , [...]

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) requires potassium (K) in large amounts for crop growth and development and is more sensitive to low K availability in soils than other agronomic crops. Low K concentrations within the plant may decrease the rate of photosynthesis, which will impact plant growth and development. Cotton yield potential has increased due to genetic improvements, which may have increased the quantity and rate at which cotton takes up K. This research aimed to determine the effect of K fertilizer rates within irrigation level on boll distribution and yield contribution from specific node zones. This study was conducted at New Deal, TX in 2016 and 2017. Muriate of potash (KCl) was applied using knife injection at rates of 0, 45, 90, 135, and 180 kg K h−1 with 80% and 30% evapotranspiration (ET) irrigation levels. Differences were not noted for estimated box mapping yield between K rates in 2016 (p = 0.3996). When 180 kg K ha−1 was applied, total bolls and estimated box mapping yield within 30% ET increased in the early and middle node zones and total nodes over all other K application rates in 2017. It was observed with box mapping that the early and middle node zones were able to utilize applied K more effectively due to the increase in bolls and yield compared to the late and vegetative node zones. Our results suggest that K is an important nutrient in cotton production due to the impacts it has on the early and middle node zones. Core Ideas: Potassium impacts cotton boll distribution and yield contribution from specific node zones within irrigation levels.The early and middle node zones for yield were the greatest with the 180 kg K ha−1 rate within 30% evapotranspiration.The early and middle node zones benefited from added potassium through increased boll formation and yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate‐smart agriculture (CSA) is an integrated approach to sustainably meeting food, fiber, and feed production needs. The technical and socioeconomic feasibility of different CSA strategies depends on local conditions, and there is no one‐size‐fits‐all approach. Here, we review two key aspects of CSA with a focus on Texas: soil C sequestration and water management. Carbon sequestration potential is highly variable across Texas as it depends on local biophysical conditions and soil management practices in place, for example, tillage and cover crops. Grasslands also have an important role to play in C sequestration. Important co‐benefits of effective soil management for C sequestration, such as reduced CO2 emissions, enhanced soil structure, and increased microbial activity, can positively impact soil fertility and productivity. The economic and political realities of C sequestration will have a strong influence on the implementation of technically feasible strategies. The major challenge for water management is the sustainable allocation of increasingly scarce resources. Expanded irrigation is a short‐term solution, but in many cases, the existing water supply is insufficient to meet future demand. A drying Texas, and aquifer depletion, portends lower future supplies. The Panhandle, Llano Estacado, and Rio Grande regions have the greatest projected gaps between future supply and demand. Increasing water‐use efficiency and using drought‐tolerant crops are important management goals and precision agriculture with site‐specific management measures could help improve drought resiliency. Texas' geographic diversity is reflected in the variety of agricultural commodities produced by the state, and CSA activities are likely to be equally diverse. Core Ideas: Climate‐smart agriculture provides opportunities for sustainably meeting food, fiber, and feed production needs.In geographically diverse states, such as Texas, CSA approaches will be site specific.Texas' C sequestration potential varies geographically with climate, crop/soil management, and irrigation capacity.Strategies to increase soil C sequestration may have co‐benefits, such as ecosystem services.A key agricultural challenge is the sustainable allocation of increasingly scarce water resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Future-oriented emotions are associated with consequential health decision-making, including genomic testing decisions. However, little is known about the relative role of various future-oriented emotions in such decisions. Moreover, most research on predictors of decision making regarding genomic testing is conducted with white participants.Purpose: This study examined the role of future-oriented emotions in decisions to receive genomic testing results in U.S. individuals of African descent.Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional survey data from a genomic sequencing cohort (N = 408). All participants identified as African, African-American, or Afro-Caribbean (Mage = 56.3, 74.7% female). Participants completed measures assessing anticipatory affect (worry about genetic testing results), anticipated distress (feeling devastated if genetic testing showed an increased risk for fatal disease), and anticipated regret (regretting a decision not to learn results). Outcomes were intentions for learning actionable, nonactionable, and carrier results.Results: Anticipated regret was robustly positively associated with intentions to receive actionable (b = 0.28, p < .001), nonactionable (b = 0.39, p < .001), and carrier (b = 0.30, p < .001) results. Anticipated distress was negatively associated with intentions to receive nonactionable results only (b = -0.16, p < .01). Anticipatory negative affect (worry) was not associated with intentions. At higher levels of anticipated regret, anticipated distress was less strongly associated with intentions to receive nonactionable results (b = 0.14, p = .02).Conclusions: Our results highlight the role of future-oriented emotions in genomic testing among participants who are typically underrepresented in genomic testing studies and behavioral medicine broadly. Future work should examine whether interventions targeting future-oriented emotions such as anticipated regret may have clinically meaningful effects in genetic counseling in similar cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic counseling for patients who are pursuing genetic testing in the absence of a medical indication, referred to as elective genomic testing (EGT), is becoming more common. This type of testing has the potential to detect genetic conditions before there is a significant health impact permitting earlier management and/or treatment. Pre‐ and post‐test counseling for EGT is similar to indication‐based genetic testing. Both require a complete family and medical history when ordering a test or interpreting a result. However, EGT counseling has some special considerations including greater uncertainties around penetrance and clinical utility and a lack of published guidelines. While certain considerations in the selection of a high‐quality genetic testing laboratory are universal, there are some considerations that are unique to the selection of a laboratory performing EGT. This practice resource intends to provide guidance for genetic counselors and other healthcare providers caring for adults seeking pre‐ or post‐test counseling for EGT. Genetic counselors and other genetics trained healthcare providers are the ideal medical professionals to supply accurate information to individuals seeking counseling about EGT enabling them to make informed decisions about testing and follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many variants that could be returned from genome sequencing may be perceived as ambiguous-lacking reliability, credibility, or adequacy. Little is known about how perceived ambiguity influences thoughts about sequencing results. Participants (n = 494) in an NIH genome sequencing study completed a baseline survey before sequencing results were available. We examined how perceived ambiguity regarding sequencing results and individual differences in medical ambiguity aversion and tolerance for uncertainty were associated with cognitions and intentions concerning sequencing results. Perceiving sequencing results as more ambiguous was associated with less favorable cognitions about results and lower intentions to learn and share results. Among participants low in tolerance for uncertainty or optimism, greater perceived ambiguity was associated with lower intentions to learn results for non-medically actionable diseases; medical ambiguity aversion did not moderate any associations. Results are consistent with the phenomenon of 'ambiguity aversion' and may influence whether people learn and communicate genomic information., Author(s): Jennifer M. Taber[sup.1] , William M. P. Klein[sup.1] , Rebecca A. Ferrer[sup.1] , Paul K. J. Han[sup.2] , Katie L. Lewis[sup.3] , Leslie G. Biesecker[sup.3] , Barbara B. Biesecker[sup.3] [...]

Introduction: Nitrous oxide (N2O) emission from soil is a major concern due to its contribution to global climate change and its function as a loss mechanism of plant-available nitrogen (N) from the soil. This is especially true in intensive agricultural soils with high rates of N fertilizer application such as those on the semi-arid Southern High Plains, USA. Methods: This study examined emissions of N2O, pore-space concentrations of N2O and nitric oxide (NO), soil chemical properties, water content, and the genetic potential for N cycling five years after conservation system and N management implementation. Results: For these semi-arid soils with low N, carbon, and water contents, large soil N2O emissions (up to 8 mL N2O-N m-2 day-1) are directly related to the application of N fertilizer which overwhelms the N2O reducing capacity of the soil. When this fertilizer N is depleted, N2O flux is either low, non-existent, or net-negative and has been observed as early as mid-season for preplant applied N fertilizer (-0.1 mL N2O-N m-2 day-1). Soil pore-space gas concentrations (N2O and NO) remained relatively constant across the growing season (average N2O: 0.78 µL N2O L-1 soil air; NO: 3.3 μL NO L-1 soil air, indicating a base-level of N-cycle activity, but was not directly related to surface emissions of N2O which decreased across the growing season. In addition, genetic potential for N cycle activities increased across the growing season simultaneously with stagnant/reduced N cycle activity. This reflects the difficulty in relating genetic potential to in-situ activity in field research. Conclusion: It is likely that in a nutrient and carbon-poor soil, such as the semiarid agricultural soil in this study, the microbial processes associated with N cycling are mostly limited by inorganic-N and less directly related to genetic potential at the time of sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When comparing soil potassium (K) levels common in West Texas to the current Mehlich III-K critical levels for cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), fertilizer K applications are seldom recommended. However, when soil K is applied, positive responses in cotton yield have been reported. Studies were conducted in Lamesa and New Deal, TX to: 1) determine K effects on leaf K concentrations; 2) evaluate whether K application increases crop growth, yield, and fiber quality in sufficient K soils; and 3) evaluate whether K application under water deficit conditions also increases growth, yield, and fiber quality. In Lamesa, muriate of potash (KCl) was applied using two methods, knife-injected (0-0-15) and broadcast (0-0-60); and at New Deal, KCl was applied using knife injection. Potassium application rates included 0, 45, 90, 135, and 180 kg ha-1 with both high (90% ET) and low (30% ET) irrigation levels. At Lamesa in 2016 at 90% ET irrigation, lint yield was greater when 90 kg K ha-1 was broadcast (2,153 kg ha-1 lint) compared to the 180 kg K ha-1 treatment, and all K treatments with 30% ET irrigation. There were no lint yield differences in 2017 at Lamesa. At New Deal, lint yield was similar amongst all K application rates in both years. Although K application increased yield with the 90% ET irrigation level with broadcast application, no differences were observed in water-deficit cotton suggesting further research is needed to better understand the dynamics of K on lint yield in semiarid cotton production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Early adopters play a critical role in the diffusion of medical innovations by spreading awareness, increasing acceptability, and driving demand. Understanding the role of race in the context of other characteristics of potential early adopters can shed light on disparities seen in the early implementation of genomic medicine. We aimed to understand the association between self-identified race and individual experience with genetic testing outside of the research context. Methods: We assessed factors associated with the odds of having ever received genetic testing prior to enrollment in a genomic sequencing study among 674 self-identified white and 407 self-identified African, African American, or Afro-Caribbean ("Black") individuals. Results: Controlling for individual determinants of healthcare use (demographics, personality traits, knowledge and attitudes, and health status), identifying as Black was associated with lower odds of prior genetic testing (OR = 0.43, 95% CI [0.27-0.68], p < 0.001). In contrast, self-identified race was not associated with the use of non-genetic clinical screening tests (e.g., echocardiogram, colonoscopy). Black and white individuals were similar on self-reported personality traits tied to early adoption but differed by sociodemographic and resource facilitators of early adoption. Conclusion: Persistent racial disparities among early adopters may represent especially-entrenched disparities in access to and knowledge of genomic technologies in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production in Texas depends heavily on conventional tillage (CT) and a long summer fallow period, which contributes to soil degradation. This study compared the impact of reducing tillage intensity (CT, no‐tillage, and strip‐tillage) combined with summer cropping to CT–summer fallow on wheat establishment, grain production, and herbage mass from 2016 to 2020 in three Texas ecoregions (Coastal Plains, Southern High Plains, and Blackland Prairie). Tillage and summer cropping resulted in variable impacts on wheat stand establishment, grain yield, and herbage mass across years and locations. At Beeville, in the Coastal Plains, wheat grain and herbage mass yields were not impacted by tillage. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) cropping resulted in less wheat grain yield in 2020. In 1 yr at Lubbock in the Southern High Plains, wheat grain yield was greater with CT than reduced tillage. Sorghum summer cropping resulted in lower wheat grain yield than cover crop mixture or cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) in 2017, but yield was greater in 2020. At Thrall, in the Blackland Prairie, wheat stand establishment and yield with reduced tillage were greater than CT in 2016, whereas CT was greater in 2017 and 2020. Sorghum or cover cropping resulted in reduced wheat grain yield compared with fallow in 2018, but sorghum and sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) resulted in increased yield compared with fallow in 2019 and 2020. Summer cropping in wheat production systems rarely had a negative impact on wheat production compared with summer fallow in all three ecoregions. Core Ideas: Tillage and summer cropping had variable effects on yield and herbage mass across semi‐arid environments.Conservation tillage practices, no‐tillage, or strip‐tillage are feasible practices for wheat production systems.Wheat–summer crop rotations are potentially feasible systems in the Coastal Plains and Blackland Prairie regions.Wheat–summer crop rotations are not feasible in the Southern High Plains due to limited precipitation and timing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although genetic counseling is traditionally done through in‐person, one‐on‐one visits, workforce shortages call for efficient result return mechanisms. Studies have shown that telephone and in‐person return of cancer genetic results are equivalent for patient outcomes. Few studies have been conducted with other modes, result types or racially diverse participants. This study explored participants' perspectives on receiving pharmacogenomic results by mail. Two experienced moderators facilitated six focus groups with 49 individuals who self‐identified primarily as African‐American and consented to participate in a genome sequencing cohort study. Participants were given a hypothetical pharmacogenomic result report (positive for c.521T>C in SLCO1B1). An accompanying letter explained that the result was associated with statin intolerance along with a recommendation to share it with one's doctor and immediate relatives. Participants reacted to the idea of receiving this type of result by mail, discussing whether the letter's information was sufficient and what they predicted they would do with the result. Two researchers coded the focus group transcripts and identified themes. Many participants thought that it was appropriate to receive the result through the mail, but some suggested a phone call alerting the recipient to the letter. Others emphasized that although a letter was acceptable for disclosing pharmacogenomic results, it would be insufficient for what they perceived as life‐threatening results. Most participants found the content sufficient. Some participants suggested resources about statin intolerance and warning signs be added. Most claimed they would share the result with their doctor, yet few participants offered they would share the result with their relatives. This exploratory study advances the evidence that African‐American research participants are receptive to return of certain genetic results by approaches that do not involve direct contact with a genetic counselor and intend to share results with providers. ClinSeq: A Large‐Scale Medical Sequencing Clinical Research Pilot Study (NCT00410241). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and potassium (K) dynamics are not well understood particularly in soils with high K levels. Potassium is important for cotton reproductive development as it influences the number, size, and weight of bolls and can improve fiber quality by mitigating moisture stress. In the case that soil cannot replenish solution K from exchangeable reserves to meet the plant demands, deficiencies may occur leading to decreased yield (lint and seed) and fiber quality, reduced drought and disease tolerance, and premature boll opening. Studies were conducted in 2016 and 2017 in Lubbock (Olton clay loam and Acuff loam) and Lamesa (Amarillo fine sandy loam), TX, to determine the effects of K application rates and timing on lint yield and fiber quality of modern cotton cultivars (DP 1518 B2XF, DP 1522 B2XF, DP 1321 B2XF, and DP 1612 B2XF). Pre‐plant soil tests were >250 mg K kg–1 at both locations and years at the 0‐to‐15‐cm soil depths. Potassium treatments were applied at 0 (control), 90, and 180 kg K ha–1 as pre‐plant, side‐dress, or split applications. Harvest results determined that pre‐plant and side‐dress K applications produced significantly greater lint yield only for DP 1518 B2XF at both locations, while effects on fiber quality varied by location. The response of DP 1518 B2XF to K fertilizer was due to greater K use efficiency and possibly K demand of this cultivar compared to the others. This research provides evidence for continued investigation of cultivar by environment‐based K management. Core Ideas: Lint yield of DP 1518 B2XF responded to soil K fertilizer treatment in Lamesa and Lubbock.Pre‐plant and side‐dress K applications produced greater lint yield at these locations.DP 1518 B2XF was determined to have greater K use efficiency than the other cultivars tested.Yield response to K differed depending on location, which had different textures and K levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) productivity and nutritional status depend on the uptake and allocation of both macro‐ and micronutrients. Micronutrient deficiencies or toxicities reduce yields and must be corrected to achieve optimal yields. There is evidence that macronutrient uptake and partitioning have changed in modern cultivars, and it is therefore important to know whether a similar change has occurred with micronutrient uptake or partitioning. Total uptake and partitioning of essential micronutrients (boron, B; iron, Fe; manganese, Mn; zinc, Zn; and copper, Cu) and of sodium (Na) in different tissues of modern cultivars (FiberMax 958, FM 958; and Deltapine 1646, DP 1646) and a 1990s cultivar (Paymaster HS26, PM HS26) were determined in 2018 and 2019 at New Deal, TX. These were compared to results obtained in studies conducted 30 yr ago. The total seasonal uptake of Cu and Zn increased, whereas the total seasonal uptake of Fe and Mn decreased in modern cultivars. Newer cultivars FM 958 and DP 1646 partitioned greater percentage of Zn and Cu to the developing bolls compared to PM HS26. Iron and Mn were mostly retained in the leaves throughout the crop's life cycle. Sodium accumulated in nonphotosynthetic tissues likely as a salt‐tolerance mechanism of cotton. However, when Na availability is far more than required for normal plant growth, Na is redistributed and accumulated into transpiring leaves. This study offers additional insights for making effective fertilizer management decisions for newer cultivars and possible problems due to excess trace elements in the soil and irrigation supply. Core Ideas: Micronutrient uptake patterns have changed after 30 yr of progressive cotton breeding.Newer cotton cultivars partitioned more Zn and Cu into the bolls than older ones.Sodium accumulation in tissues change depending on its availability in soil and irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genomics researchers are increasingly interested in what constitutes effective engagement of individuals from underrepresented groups. This is critical for longitudinal projects needed to inform the implementation of precision medicine. Return of results is one opportunity for engagement. The aims of this study were to determine participant perspectives on optimal engagement strategies and priorities for return of results and the extent to which focus groups were an effective modality for gathering input on these topics. We conducted six professionally moderated focus groups with 49 participants in a genomics research study. Transcripts from audio-recorded sessions were coded by two researchers and themes were discussed with the wider research team. All groups raised the issue of mistrust. Individuals participated nonetheless to contribute their perspectives and benefit their community. Many group members preferred engagement modalities that are offered to all participants and allow them to share the nuances of their perspectives over the use of participant representatives and surveys. All groups created a consensus ranking for result return priorities. Results for life-threatening conditions were the highest priority to return, followed by those related to treatable conditions that affect physical or mental health. We advocate for engagement strategies that reach as many participants as possible and allow them to share their perspectives in detail. Such strategies are valued by participants, can be effective for developing return of results policies, and may help institutions become more trustworthy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Next generation sequencing (NGS) has promising applications in transfusion medicine. Exome sequencing (ES) is increasingly used in the clinical setting, and blood group interpretation is an additional value that could be extracted from existing data sets. We provide the first release of an open‐source software tailored for this purpose and describe its validation with three blood group systems. Materials and methods: The DTM‐Tools algorithm was designed and used to analyse 1018 ES NGS files from the ClinSeq® cohort. Predictions were correlated with serology for 5 antigens in a subset of 108 blood samples. Discrepancies were investigated with alternative phenotyping and genotyping methods, including a long‐read NGS platform. Results: Of 116 genomic variants queried, those corresponding to 18 known KEL, FY and JK alleles were identified in this cohort. 596 additional exonic variants were identified KEL,ACKR1 and SLC14A1, including 58 predicted frameshifts. Software predictions were validated by serology in 108 participants; one case in the FY blood group and three cases in the JK blood group were discrepant. Investigation revealed that these discrepancies resulted from (1) clerical error, (2) serologic failure to detect weak antigenic expression and (3) a frameshift variant absent in blood group databases. Conclusion: DTM‐Tools can be employed for rapid Kell, Duffy and Kidd blood group antigen prediction from existing ES data sets; for discrepancies detected in the validation data set, software predictions proved accurate. DTM‐Tools is open‐source and in continuous development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) is a common, acquired form of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism that occurs in the setting of energy deficits and/or stress. Variability in individual susceptibility to these stressors, HA heritability, and previous identification of several rare sequence variants (RSVs) in genes associated with the rare disorder, isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH), in individuals with HA suggest a possible genetic contribution to HA susceptibility.Objective: We sought to determine whether the burden of RSVs in IHH-related genes is greater in women with HA than controls.Design: We compared patients with HA to control women.Setting: The study was conducted at secondary referral centers.Patients and Other Participants: Women with HA (n = 106) and control women (ClinSeq study; n = 468).Interventions: We performed exome sequencing in all patients and controls.Main Outcome Measure(s): The frequency of RSVs in 53 IHH-associated genes was determined using rare variant burden and association tests.Results: RSVs were overrepresented in women with HA compared with controls (P = .007). Seventy-eight heterozygous RSVs in 33 genes were identified in 58 women with HA (36.8% of alleles) compared to 255 RSVs in 41 genes among 200 control women (27.2%).Conclusions: Women with HA are enriched for RSVs in genes that cause IHH, suggesting that variation in genes associated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal ontogeny and function may be a major determinant of individual susceptibility to developing HA in the face of diet, exercise, and/or stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of therapeutic alliance is central to genetic counseling as the mechanism through which the outcomes of empowerment and effective coping are likely to be achieved. To date, there have been no published systematic assessments of the therapeutic relationship in genetic counseling. We adapted a previously validated measure of the therapeutic alliance to genetic counseling and assessed its reliability and validity. Participants were enrolled in a clinical genomic study where they were randomized to receive education about carrier results via a Web platform or via a genetic counselor and then further randomized to receive genetic counseling (without additional education) or not. We rated the therapeutic alliance from audio recordings of 120 genetic counseling sessions. We modified the observer version of the Working Alliance Inventory (WAI‐O), initially designed to assess therapeutic relationships in psychotherapy. We examined internal consistency reliability by calculating Cronbach's alpha and inter‐rater reliability through both percent agreement and Gwet's alternative agreement coefficient (AC). Regression analyses were used to evaluate the relationship of WAI‐O scores with session length and with the designation of the session as one in which prior education was delivered by the genetic counselor or not. The adapted scale had high‐reliability characteristics with agreement of 88%‐93%, Gwet's AC of 0.84‐0.90, and Cronbach's alpha of 0.89‐0.93 for the three WAI‐O subscales (bonds, goals, and tasks). Although there was no difference in alliance based on whether prior education was provided by the genetic counselor, the total WAI‐O score significantly increased with increasing session length (beta =0.667, p<.001), providing preliminary evidence of construct validity. The WAI‐O that we have adapted can be used reliably with two independent raters to assess the therapeutic alliance in studies of genetic counseling. The initial evidence for construct validity is promising and should be reassessed in future genetic counseling studies using the WAI‐O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars are more productive and have unique growth and fruiting characteristics due to optimization of genetics and management practices in the past 30 yr. The most recent work evaluating nutrient uptake and partitioning by cotton was conducted in the early 1990s, necessitating a re‐evaluation of nutrient accumulation and requirements in modern high productivity cultivars. Modern cultivar (FiberMax [FM] 958 and Deltapine [DP] 1646) resource allocation, including dry matter production, yields, and accumulation and partitioning of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S to different organs, was compared with that of a 1990s cultivar (Paymaster [PM] HS26) in 2018 and 2019. The modern cultivars tested in this study partitioned a greater percentage of dry matter, N, P, K, and S into the fruit than the older cultivar, highlighting the importance of partitioning for increased production potential of these cultivars from the 1990s to the 2010s. Greater efficiencies in partitioning and remobilization of N, P, K, and S resulted in 66, 88, 64, and 30% increase in the amount of lint yield produced for every unit of uptake, respectively, under favorable growing conditions. These findings suggest that existing fertility paradigm in cotton may underestimate the accumulation expectations during the middle and latter part of the growing season. These results can be a basis for optimizing nutrient application to address partitioning changes. Adjusting nutrient recommendations to the shift in cultivar growth characteristics may improve both yield and application efficiency of fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How individuals perceive uncertainties in sequencing results may affect their clinical utility. The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of uncertainties in carrier results and how they relate to psychological well-being and health behavior. Post-reproductive adults (N = 462) were randomized to receive carrier results from sequencing through either a web platform or a genetic counselor. On average, participants received two results. Group differences in affective, evaluative, and clinical uncertainties were assessed from baseline to 1 and 6 months; associations with test-specific distress and communication of results were assessed at 6 months. Reductions in affective uncertainty (∆x̅ = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.53, 1.02) and evaluative uncertainty (∆x̅ = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51, 0.87) followed receipt of results regardless of randomization arm at 1 month. Participants in the web platform arm reported greater clinical uncertainty than those in the genetic counselor arm at 1 and 6 months; this was corroborated by the 1,230 questions asked of the genetic counselor and residual questions reported by those randomized to the web platform. Evaluative uncertainty was associated with a lower likelihood of communicating results to health care providers. Clinical uncertainty was associated with a lower likelihood of communicating results to children. Learning one's carrier results may reduce perceptions of uncertainties, though web-based return may lead to less reduction in clinical uncertainty in the short term. These findings warrant reinforcement of clinical implications to minimize residual questions and promote appropriate health behavior (communicating results to at-risk relatives in the case of carrier results), especially when testing alternative delivery models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core Ideas: Mustard seed meals (SM) added to soil >56 days before planting cotton and sorghum reduced negative growth effects.Mineral concentrations of cotton and sorghum were generally greater with SM and inorganic fertilizer treatments than the control.Before use as an organic fertilizer, the source, rate, and timing of SM applications should be considered. Oilseed crops have been widely evaluated for potential biodiesel production; however, for biodiesel to be economically and environmentally sustainable, feasible, and profitable means of by‐product (i.e., seed meal, SM) usage must also be developed. Utilization of SMs as a soil amendment in organic agricultural production systems offers one possible solution. This glasshouse study was conducted to determine the effects of mustard SMs (white mustard, Sinapis alba L., and Indian mustard, Brassica juncea L.) on aboveground growth and nutrient uptake by cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] compared to inorganic fertilizer. The soil used was a loamy fine sand with low plant‐available N, P, and K. Seed meals were applied to soil at 1.0 and 2.5% by weight of soil. Compositional analysis of SMs used in this experiment indicated that the materials should contain sufficient nutrients to support plant growth; however, glucosinolates contained in these materials can also inhibit plant growth. A SM incubation period of 56 d reduced negative crop growth effects and should result in increased nutrient availability. For each measured nutrient parameter of cotton and sorghum, SM and inorganic fertilizer treatments generally resulted in values greater than the control. Dry matter N concentrations of two harvests of each plant species were greatest with 2.5% SM, followed by 1.0% SM and fertilizer. Seed meal applications may enhance nutrient availability and plant uptake and growth; however, the source, rate, and timing of SM applications should be considered before use as an organic fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining production of low‐input alternative crops together with cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) under deficit irrigation (DI) has gained attention for purposes of rotation, diversification, and saving water resources in West Texas. The objective of this study was to determine a relationship between water extraction patterns and water use efficiency (WUE) of crops tolerant of the semiarid conditions in West Texas. Irrigation responses of cotton, sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), and grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] were compared in 2017 and 2018 at irrigation levels ranging from extreme DI to mild DI based on crop yield, aboveground biomass, water extraction patterns, and WUE. Cotton and sorghum biomass production and yield increased with irrigation rate, whereas sesame productivity was not significantly increased in either year. The water extraction patterns suggested that the rooting system of sesame was not as extensive compared with cotton and sorghum and did not change substantially among irrigation treatments, and sesame yields did not significantly vary among DI treatments. The implication is that the biomass production and yield of sesame, even under low irrigation management, was not water limited, even in irrigation treatments that resulted in 25% yield losses in sorghum and 40% yield losses in cotton. As a result, the WUE of sesame was dramatically decreased with additional irrigation, whereas cotton and sorghum maintained similar WUE under all irrigation treatments. Therefore, water‐limiting environments may not actually be water limiting to sesame, and the bigger limitation is the yield potential associated with a baseline irrigation level far below that of cotton or sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exome and genome sequencing (EGS) are increasingly the genetic testing modalities of choice among researchers owing to their ready availability, low cost, and large data output. Recruitment of larger, more diverse cohorts into long‐term studies with extensive data collection is fundamental to the success of EGS research and to the widespread benefit of genomic medicine to various populations. Effective engagement will be critical to meeting this demand. The Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) model provides a framework for how new technologies are adopted in communities, including antecedents of an individual's decision to adopt the technology, how the technology's attributes influence its acceptability, the predictors of sustained use of that technology, and its diffusion through society. We apply the DOI model to frame participant engagement in EGS research and to guide the proposal of potential strategies that aim to overcome forecasted challenges. Finally, we suggest a variety of ways genetic counselors can apply their skills and training to the development and implementation of these strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical genome and exome sequencing (CGES) is primarily used to address specific clinical concerns by detecting risk of future disease, clarifying diagnosis, or directing treatment. Additionally, CGES makes possible the disclosure of autosomal recessive and X‐linked carrier results as additional secondary findings, and research about the impact of carrier results disclosure in this context is needed. Methods: Representatives from 11 projects in the clinical sequencing exploratory research (CSER) consortium collected data from their projects using a structured survey. The survey focused on project characteristics, which variants were offered and/or disclosed to participants as carrier results, methods for carrier results disclosure, and project‐specific outcomes. We recorded quantitative responses and report descriptive statistics with the aim of describing the variability in approaches to disclosing carrier results in translational genomics research projects. Results: The proportion of participants with carrier results was related to the number of genes included, ranging from 3% (three genes) to 92% (4,600 genes). Between one and seven results were disclosed to those participants who received any positive result. Most projects offered participants choices about whether to receive some or all of the carrier results. There were a range of approaches to communicate results, and many projects used separate approaches for disclosing positive and negative results. Conclusion: Future translational genomics research projects will need to make decisions regarding whether and how to disclose carrier results. The CSER consortium experience identifies approaches that balance potential participant interest while limiting impact on project resources. The clinical sequencing exploratory research (CSER) consortium sought to understand the variability in approaches to identifying and disclosing carrier results. The broad range of experiences across 11 of the CSER projects allowed us to distill key considerations important for guiding future translational genomics research projects that will inform decisions regarding whether and how to disclose carrier results. This research may in turn help to guide policy decisions about clinical services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation tillage coupled with winter cover crops may reduce wind erosion in the North America Great Plains. Although farmers recognize the benefits of conservation practices, their decision to use cover crops is often based on the farm's operating budget. In semiarid ecoregions dependent on irrigation for cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production and limited groundwater resources, cover crops using stored soil moisture is a major concern. The objective of this research was to quantify the long-term impacts of conservation tillage and cover crop use on C storage, cotton lint yield, and economic returns in monoculture cotton production. Conservation tillage and rye cover were implemented in 1998 and a mixed species cover of rye (Secale cereale L.), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth), radish (Raphanus sativus L.), and winter pea (Pisum sativum L.) was seeded in 2014 into half of the rye cover crop plots. Soil organic C in the top 15-cm soil depth was increased by combining conservation tillage with winter cover crops. Cotton lint yield was less with no-tillage and the rye cover when compared with conventional tillage in 2 of 3 yr. As a result, cotton lint revenue and gross margins of conservation tillage were on average less than conventional tillage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-person education and counseling for all people receiving genetic results is the predominant model of disclosure but is challenged by the growing volume of low-impact results generated by sequencing. Evidence suggests that web-based tools may be as effective as in-person counseling at educating individuals about their low-impact results. However, the effects of counseling have not been assessed. To evaluate its utility, carrier results were returned to 459 post-reproductive participants from the ClinSeq cohort within a randomized controlled trial. Participants received education and were randomized to receive counseling or not. Primary outcomes included risk worry, test-related positive experiences, attitudes, and decisional conflict. Secondary outcomes were satisfaction, preferences, and counseling value. There were no differences between participants who received counseling and those who did not in the primary outcomes. Participants who received counseling were more satisfied than those who did not ( x ¯ = 10.2 and 9.5, respectively, p < 0.002, range: 3–12), although overall satisfaction was high. Most participants (92%) randomized to counseling preferred it and valued it because it provided validation of their reactions and an opportunity for interpersonal interaction. Web-based tools address the challenge of returning low-impact results, and these data provide empiric evidence that counseling, although preferred and satisfying, is not critical to achieving desired outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]