bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic diversity within populations of an arctic–alpine species declines with decreasing latitude across the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Hirao Akira S. , Watanabe Mikio , Tsuyuzaki Shiro , Shimono Ayako , Li Xuefeng , Masuzawa Takehiro , Wada Naoya
Published: September 2017

Aim

We identified and evaluated general latitudinal trends in genetic diversity within populations of a widespread arctic–alpine plant, Dryas octopetala, to examine the applicability to this species of the dominant hypothesis that intraspecific genetic diversity is highest in the tropics and declines towards the poles.

Location

The circumpolar Arctic and northern temperate alpine ranges, with a focus on high altitude mountains at the species lowest latitudinal margin in the Japanese archipelago.

Methods

Within‐population genetic diversity was assessed using genotypes determined at nine microsatellite loci (n = 489), chloroplast DNA sequences (atpB‐rbcL and trnV‐ndhC spacers, n = 181) and a nuclear gene sequence (LEAFY, n = 173) of 18 populations, as well as a previously published amplified fragment length polymorphism dataset for 26 populations, across the distributional range of the species. The latitudinal pattern of intra‐population genetic diversity was modelled at hemispheric scale to discriminate linear latitudinal and quadratic central–marginal trends in genetic diversity. Population genetic structure was assessed by Bayesian clustering analyses.

Results

At hemispheric scale, we identified two interacting effects: a general latitudinal decline in genetic diversity towards the equator and a central–marginal effect, whereby genetic diversity decreases towards the margins of a species’ range. This decrease was more marked in low‐latitude marginal populations than in high‐latitude marginal populations. Populations at the lowest latitudes in the Japanese archipelago showed the lowest level of genetic diversity but exhibited distinctive genetic variation.

Main conclusion

The latitudinal decline in genetic diversity within populations of this arctic–alpine plant across its range was opposite to the commonly observed trend. A significant part of the equator‐ward latitudinal decline in genetic diversity in this arctic–alpine species may be attributable to a “sky island” effect, which played a greater role at low latitudes.
Injectable technique for direct provisional restoration
Authors: Blasi Alvaro , Alnassar Talal , Chiche Gerard
Published: September 2017

Objective

New technique describes an alternative treatment modality of making direct provisional restoration.

Clinical considerations

A preoperative wax‐up should be fabricated, followed by fabrication of a transparent polyvinyl siloxane (VPS) matrix in a clear plastic prefabricated tray with retentive holes. After the tray is separated from the model, two additional holes will be made through the tray and the VPS for injecting and venting of the temporary resin. After the teeth are prepared and the separating medium applied to them, the resin should be injected into the entrance hole using the provided auto‐mix cartilage tip. The flow of the resin around the preparation can be observed through the clear mold and once the resin starts to extrude from the exit hole. It is necessary to block the exit hole with a finger while continuing to inject. This will increase the pressure inside the mold and improve marginal adaptation. Before complete polymerization, the matrix is removed. The provisional restorations are removed from the matrix and contoured, adjusted, and polished.

Conclusion

This technique will help the clinicians to enhance the quality of the provisional restorations, to prevent entrapment of bubbles, improve marginal precision and prevent seating error.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This study described a novel technique for constructing a direct provisional restoration by injecting bis‐acryl temporary resin into a matrix that is already seated over the prepared tooth.
Production of edible coatings with twin‐nozzle electrospraying equipment and the effects on shelf‐life stability of fresh‐cut apple slices
Authors: Cakmak Hulya , Kumcuoglu Seher , Tavman Sebnem
Published: September 2017

In this study, apple slices were coated with electrospraying and dipping method for comparison of the coating efficiency, material uptake, color changes, and microstructure of coated surfaces. In electrospraying of 70% oil emulsion, a lower voltage was required for stable cone‐jet geometry compared to the 80% oil emulsion which had the highest electrical conductivity and lowest viscosity. The material uptake of dip–coated samples was similar; however, the material uptake of electrospray coated samples was found between 0.051 and 0.122 mg emulsion/g apple. Electrospray coated apple slices had lower weight loss compared to the control and dip‐coated samples, although the applied coating material was significantly lower. The total color change of electrospray coated samples was similar to the control; however the change in dip‐coated samples was significant. The coating was uniform on the surface of electrospray coated sample, but a couple of pinholes and irregularities were visible in the microstructural image of dip‐coated sample.

Practical applications

Fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, and their regular consumption is recommended for a healthy life. The fresh‐cut fruits are easy to access and practical to meeting the daily need for the nutrients. However, the shelf‐life of these foods is limited due to perishable characters of the fruits and short shelf‐life. Edible coatings and films can be applied for extending the shelf‐life and maintaining the sensory characteristics of the fruits. The electrospraying method is an emerging technology in the edible coating production with its less coating material use compared to the conventional alternatives and electrospraying helps to improve the shelf‐life stability of fresh‐cut fruits.
The impact of postponed bread baking technology on the quality properties of Kaiser rolls and in vitro starch digestibility
Authors: Mikulec Anna , Kowalski Stanislaw , Lukasiewicz Marcin
Published: September 2017

The article presents the results of sensory and textural properties, volume, moisture, and porosity of the crumb, as well as in vitro digestibility of the starch, of the Kaiser rolls baked using traditional and deferred baking methods, particularly using the method of stopping or slowing down the fermentation process. The frozen Kaiser rolls were characterized by the highest total baking loss, and thus the smallest overbake, whereas the standard ones were characterized by the lowest total baking loss. Kaiser rolls baked from frozen dough were characterized by the highest content of resistant starch (16.4 ± 0.3 g/100 g). In contrast, products obtained via initial prebaking were characterized by the highest contribution of rapid digestible starch (38.2 ± 1.8 g/100 g). Prebaking also influenced on the highest 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural formation (44.04 ± 0.71 mg/kg) in opposite to Kaiser rolls obtained from frozen dough (5.10 ± 0.37 mg/kg).

Practical applications

This work consists of a study of the Kaiser rolls baked using traditional and postponed baking methods such as freezing raw chunks of dough (frozen), freezing prebaked chunks (prebaked), and stopping the fermentation process in temperatures above 0 °C (postponed method). Comparison of sensory and textural properties, volume, moisture, and porosity of the crumb and in vitro starch digestibility of the Kaiser rolls baked using traditional and deferred baking method gives possibility to compare quality features of bakery products obtained with different baking technology. The results will be used to assess production methods of Kaiser rolls, both in terms of consumer acceptance and their beneficial impact on the human body.
Association Between Type of Health Professional at Birth and Exclusive Breastfeeding
Authors: Haile Zelalem T. , Elmasry Mohamed , Chavan Bhakti , Azulay Chertok Ilana R.
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Although benefits of breastfeeding for infants, women, and society are well established, breastfeeding rates in the United States remain below the Healthy People 2020 goals. Various factors are known to influence breastfeeding practices. Limited research has been conducted to examine the influence of type of birth attendant on exclusive breastfeeding.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted using data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II collected between May 2005 and June 2007.

Results

The study sample included 2026 women, aged 18 years or older. At discharge, 74.6% of women exclusively breastfed, and 27.6% exclusively breastfed at 3 months postpartum. Bivariate analysis showed a statistically significant association between type of health professional at birth and exclusive breastfeeding at discharge (P = .001) and 3 months postpartum (P < .001). After adjusting for potential confounders, the association between type of health professional at birth and exclusive breastfeeding at discharge was no longer significant. However, the odds of exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum were higher among women whose birth was attended by a midwife or nurse‐midwife compared to those whose birth was attended by an obstetrician (odds ratio [OR], 1.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34‐2.61; P < .001).

Discussion

Exclusive breastfeeding continuation may be influenced by the type of health professional attending the birth. In addition to having a skilled workforce, health care professionals involved in perinatal care need to be educated and trained to promote and support exclusive breastfeeding as recommended. The complex and multifactorial nature of the maternal decision to exclusively breastfeed requires broader understanding of contextual factors.
Plantar keratoderma climatericum: Successful improvement with a topical estriol cream
Authors: Mendes‐Bastos Pedro
Published: September 2017

Keratoderma climatericum affects menopausal women, and the diagnosis relies on typical clinical findings and exclusion of other potential causes of acquired keratoderma. Although its pathophysiology is still unknown, there has been speculation about its relation to hormonal dysregulation (possibly a local estrogen deficiency) since the 1930s. A female patient with long‐lasting keratoderma climatericum was initially prescribed a topical 50% urea ointment and clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment, with just a slight improvement after 2 months of daily use. The patient was started on topical estriol 0.125 mg/g vaginal cream applied on the plantar surface after her daily shower and application of the same topical 50% urea ointment and clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment on alternate nights. There was a marked improvement under this regimen with total and fast control of the pruritus. At 6‐month follow‐up the patient retained total symptomatic control and was just applying the estriol cream and the 50% urea containing ointment. We report a case of a difficult to treat plantar keratoderma that markedly improved after adding a daily topical application of a vaginal cream containing estriol 0.125 mg/g. Trials that determine the efficacy and safety of topical estrogens for keratoderma climatericum are warranted.
Epicardial collateral channel for retrograded recanalization of chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention: Predictors of failure and procedural outcome
Authors: Huang Zehan , Ma Dunliang , Zhang Bin , Folson Aba A. , Lin Jingye , Wu Kaize , Liao Hongtao , Zhong Zhian
Published: September 2017

Objectives

This study set out to identify significant lesion features of chronic total occlusion (CTO) that predict successful retrograde recanalization via epicardial collateral channels (CCs).

Background

Epicardial CCs remain essential in retrograde percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of CTO. However, the unpredictability of success and occurrence of complications limit the application of epicardial CCs for retrograde PCI technique for CTO.

Methods

103 retro‐recanalization cases were analyzed using epicardial CCs with successful recanalization as an end point. Clinical and angiography data were collected.

Results

The total success rate was 76.3%. Independent predictors associated with technical success included CCs tortuosity, side branch at CCs tortuosity, inadequate CCs Size and inadequate CCs exit location. Assigning a score of one for each variable, four levels of difficulty were obtained and formed the EPI‐CTO score (Epicardial CTO). This score had significant predictive value for the likelihood of successful recanalization (AUC: 0.94, 95%CI: 0.89‐0.98). Coronary and CCs perforation occurred in 6 and 10 cases respectively. Four cases including two coronary and two CCs perforations had tamponade that needed pericardiocentesis.

Conclusions

Using epicardial CCs for retrograde approach of CTO PCI is effective. Complication rate was acceptable. We found four independent predictors relative to procedure success.
Vasopressin: novel roles for a new hormone – Emerging therapies in cardiometabolic and renal diseases
Authors: Melander O.
Published: September 2017

Content List ‐ Read more articles from the symposium: “Vasopressin: novel roles for an old hormone. Emerging therapies in cardiometabolic and renal diseases”.
Clinical and radiographic periodontal parameters and release of collagen degradation biomarkers in naswar dippers
Authors: Daood U. , Abduljabbar T. , Al‐Hamoudi N. , Akram Z.
Published: September 2017

Background and Objective

The aim of the present study was to compare clinical periodontal parameters and to assess the release of C‐telopeptides pyridinoline cross‐links (ICTP) and C‐terminal crosslinked telopeptide (CTX) from gingival collagen of naswar (NW) and non‐naswar (control) dippers.

Material and Methods

Eighty‐seven individuals (42 individuals consuming NW and 45 controls) were included. Clinical (plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth and clinical attachment loss) and radiographic (marginal bone loss) periodontal parameters were compared among NW and control groups. Gingival specimens were taken from subjects in NW and control groups, assessed for ICTP and CTX levels (using ELISA) and analyzed using micro‐Raman spectroscopy. The significance of differences in periodontal parameters between the groups was determined using Kruskal‐Wallis and Mann‐Whitney U tests. The percent loss of dry mass over exposure time and the rate of release of ICTP and CTX from all groups were compared using the paired t‐test to examine the effects of exposure time.

Results

Clinical and radiographic periodontal parameters were significantly higher in the NW group than the control group (P < .01). In the Raman spectrum, the strongest and sharpest band occurred at 1260 cm−1 amongst NW users. A Raman band at Amide I was observed with slight shifts in wave numbers. The rate of ICTP and CTX release was significantly higher in subjects from the NW group compared with those from the control group (P < .05). Both factors, the type of groups and time, had a significant effect on release of ICTP and CTX (P < .05).

Conclusion

Within the limits of the present study, it may be concluded that clinical and radiographic periodontal parameters were worse among subjects in the NW group than in those of the control group. There is a higher degree of collagen breakdown in the connective tissue of subjects in the NW group as a result of naswar usage.
Quality of life as a prognostic factor for survival in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sternby Eilard Malin , Hagström Hannes , Mortensen Kim Erlend , Wilsgaard Tom , Vagnildhaug Ola Magne , Dajani Olav , Stål Per , Rizell Magnus
Published: September 2017

Background & Aims

Prognostication in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is demanding. Not only tumour extent and performance status are to be considered, but also liver function, which is often limiting for both survival itself and for treatment possibilities. This study was conducted to assess whether patient‐reported questionnaires containing general and liver‐specific questions could improve prognostication of survival.

Methods

185 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in Norway and Sweden were prospectively included. Patients completed the quality‐of‐life questionnaires EORTC QLQ C30 and HCC18, and clinical, radiological and laboratory parameters were registered. Multivariate Cox regression and Harrell's C‐statistics were used to identify the model that best predicted mortality.

Results

Quality‐of‐life data were prognostic for overall survival. Fatigue and nutrition scales were prognostic in the multivariable analyses alone and in combination with clinical parameters. The prognostic value of established scoring systems was increased by the addition of QoL data. The best prognostic power was achieved by combining HCC18 nutrition scale with selected background parameters.

Conclusion

Quality‐of‐life questionnaires can prognosticate mortality in HCC patients. When combined with established scoring systems, both the general cancer questionnaire EORTC QLQ C30, and the additional liver cancer‐specific HCC18 increased the prognostic accuracy slightly.
Endoglin in human liver disease and murine models of liver fibrosis—A protective factor against liver fibrosis
Authors: Alsamman Muhammad , Sterzer Viktor , Meurer Steffen K. , Sahin Hacer , Schaeper Ute , Kuscuoglu Deniz , Strnad Pavel , Weiskirchen Ralf , Trautwein Christian , Scholten David
Published: September 2017

Background & Aims

Liver fibrosis is the outcome of chronic liver injury. Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is a major profibrogenic cytokine modulating hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and extracellular matrix homeostasis. This study analyses the effect of Endoglin (Eng), a TGF‐β type III auxiliary receptor, on fibrogenesis in two models of liver injury by HSC‐specific endoglin deletion.

Methods

Eng expression was measured in human and murine samples of liver injury. After generating GFAPCre(+)EngΔHSC mice, the impact of Endoglin deletion on chronic liver fibrosis was analysed. For in vitro analysis, Engflox/flox HSCs were infected with Cre‐expressing virus to deplete Endoglin and fibrogenic responses were analysed.

Results

Endoglin is upregulated in human liver injury. The receptor is expressed in liver tissues and mesenchymal liver cells with much higher abundance of the L‐Eng splice variant. Comparing GFAPCre(−)Engf/f to GFAPCre(+)EngΔHSC mice in toxic liver injury, livers of GFAPCre(+)EngΔHSC mice showed 39.9% (P < .01) higher Hydroxyproline content compared to GFAPCre(−)Engf/f littermates. Sirius Red staining underlined these findings, showing 58.8% (P < .05) more Collagen deposition in livers of GFAPCre(+)EngΔHSC mice. Similar results were obtained in mice subjected to cholestatic injury.

Conclusion

Endoglin isoforms are differentially upregulated in liver samples of patients with chronic and acute liver injury. Endoglin deficiency in HSC significantly aggravates fibrosis in response to injury in two different murine models of liver fibrosis and increases α‐SMA and fibronectin expression in vitro. This suggests that Endoglin protects against fibrotic injury, likely through modulation of TGF‐β signalling.
Survivors' perceptions of public health messages during an Ebola crisis in Liberia and Sierra Leone: An exploratory study
Authors: Schwerdtle Patricia , De Clerck Veronique , Plummer Virginia
Published: September 2017

Abstract

The outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone was the largest epidemic of Ebola ever recorded. The healthcare workforce was diminished and exhausted as the region emerged from civil war. Few qualitative, descriptive studies have been conducted to date that concentrate on the voices of Ebola survivors and their perceptions of health messages. In this study, we employed an interpretive, qualitative design to explore participant experiences. Twenty five survivors who had recovered from Ebola were recruited from three villages in Liberia and Sierra Leone in August 2015. Data were collected using semistructured interviews. Data analysis revealed four themes: (i) degrees of mistrust; (ii) messages conflicting with life and culture; (iii) seeing is believing; and (iv) recovery inspires hope. The findings were explored in the context of the relevant literature. The themes highlight the need to develop culturally‐appropriate messages, underpinned by a sound understanding of the community and a willingness to work with the culture and trusted leaders.
Can noninvasive hemoglobin measurement reduce the need for preoperative venipuncture in pediatric outpatient surgery?
Authors: Zeng Ruifeng , Svensen Christer H. , Li Husong , Xu Ximou , Skoog Svanberg Agneta , Liu Huacheng , Li Yanrong , Shangguan Wangning , Lian Qingquan
Published: September 2017

Background

Noninvasive measurements of hemoglobin in the pediatric perioperative setting could be helpful to avoid venipunctures in children. The present study aims to evaluate this by using a noninvasive device for hemoglobin determination. We compared noninvasively obtained hemoglobin with laboratory hemoglobin concentrations in children during their preoperative assessment.

Methods

In an observational study, 122 nonanemic children (age 4.2 ± 1.6 years) who were scheduled to undergo different surgical procedures under general anesthesia were included. In their preoperative preparations, single invasive blood samples for laboratory hemoglobin concentrations were routinely taken following hospital policy and compared to simultaneous noninvasive determinations of hemoglobin. A preoperative invasive value ≤9 g/dL would have caused cancelation of surgery and implied further investigations.

Results

A Bland‐Altman plot showed that the average difference between noninvasively obtained hemoglobin and laboratory hemoglobin concentration was −0.44 g/dL (bias) with a standard deviation of the mean bias of 1.04 g/dL. A hemoglobin error grid showed that the noninvasive device could identify almost all invasive hemoglobin values >9 g/dL. In total, there were 4 false‐positive values where noninvasively obtained hemoglobin observations were below while the paired invasive values were above 9 g/dL.

Conclusion

The data in this pediatric setting suggest that the device may eliminate the need for venipuncture in nonanemic children.
Interactions of WRKY15 and WRKY33 transcription factors and their roles in the resistance of oilseed rape to Sclerotinia infection
Authors: Liu Fei , Li Xiaoxia , Wang Meirong , Wen Jing , Yi Bin , Shen Jinxiong , Ma Chaozhi , Fu Tingdong , Tu Jinxing
Published: September 2017

WRKY transcription factors are known to participate in the defence responses of higher plants. However, little is known about the roles of such proteins, especially regarding their functions in the resistance of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, a necrotrophic fungal pathogen that causes stem rot. In this study, we identified BnWRKY33 as a S. sclerotiorum‐responsive gene that positively regulates resistance to this pathogen by enhancing the expression of genes involved in camalexin synthesis and genes regulated by salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA). We also identified a S. sclerotiorum‐responsive region in the promoter of BnWRKY33, which we revealed to be a relatively conserved W‐box region in the promoters of homologous genes in different species. Using this S. sclerotiorum‐responsive region as bait in a yeast one‐hybrid assay, we identified another WRKY transcription factor, BnWRKY15, and observed that both BnWRKY15 and BnWRKY33 could bind to this region. In addition, BnWRKY15 overexpression simultaneously increased the susceptibility of B. napus to S. sclerotiorum and down‐regulated BnWRKY33 after different durations of infection. Furthermore, BnWRKY15, which contains a transcriptional repression domain, exhibited reduced transactivation ability and could reduce the transactivation ability of BnWRKY33 in Arabidopsis protoplast assays. Therefore, we suggest that the increased susceptibility of BnWRKY15‐overexpressing plants results from reduced BnWRKY33 expression, which is due to the inhibition of BnWRKY33 transcriptional activation by BnWRKY15.
Acoustic communication in the pine engraver bark beetle: do signals vary between behavioural contexts?
Authors: Dobai Andras , Sivalinghem Senthurran , Guedes Raul N.C. , Yack Jayne E.
Published: September 2017

Acoustic communication is taxonomically widespread in bark beetles and is proposed to play an important role in a variety of social and defensive behavioural contexts. Yet our understanding of how signals vary between contexts is currently limited. The present study tests the hypothesis that acoustic signals vary between behavioural contexts in the female pine engraver beetleIps pini(Say) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae). FemaleIps piniproduce acoustic chirps using a vertex‐pronotal stridulatory organ. Randomly sampled chirps generated under three contexts (i.e. distress, predation and premating) are compared for their duration, number of pulses, interpulse intervals, pulse rate and amplitude envelope shapes. The results obtained show that, during premating events, chirps are significantly longer in duration and tend to have a higher proportion of descending amplitude envelopes than chirps occurring during distress and predation events. Chirps produced during distress and predation conditions are indistinguishable from one another. By contrast to the results from previous bark beetle studies, no support is found for categorizing chirps as ‘interrupted’ or ‘uninterrupted’ types based on temporal patterns. The functional significance of context‐dependent variation in chirp characteristics is discussed. Previous studies on acoustic communication in bark beetles are limited as a result of a general lack of objective sampling and measurement criteria for characterizing signals. Recommendations are outlined for future studies on the functions and evolution of acoustic communication in bark beetles.
Morphological and transcript changes in the biosynthesis of lignin in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) during Ganoderma boninense infections in vitro
Authors: Goh Kar Mun , Dickinson Matthew , Supramaniam Christina V.
Published: September 2017

Lignification of the plant cell wall could serve as the first line of defense against pathogen attack, but the molecular mechanisms of virulence and disease between oil palm and Ganoderma boninense are poorly understood. This study presents the biochemical, histochemical, enzymology and gene expression evidences of enhanced lignin biosynthesis in young oil palm as a response to G. boninense (GBLS strain). Comparative studies with control (T1), wounded (T2) and infected (T3) oil palm plantlets showed significant accumulation of total lignin content and monolignol derivatives (syringaldehyde and vanillin). These derivatives were deposited on the epidermal cell wall of infected plants. Moreover, substantial differences were detected in the activities of enzyme and relative expressions of genes encoding phenylalanine ammonia lyase (EC 4.3.1.24), cinnamate 4‐hydroxylase (EC 1.14.13.11), caffeic acid O‐methyltransferase (EC 2.1.1.68) and cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD, EC 1.1.1.195). These enzymes are key intermediates dedicated to the biosynthesis of lignin monomers, the guaicyl (G), syringyl (S) and ρ‐hydroxyphenyl (H) subunits. Results confirmed an early, biphasic and transient positive induction of all gene intermediates, except for CAD enzyme activities. These differences were visualized by anatomical and metabolic changes in the profile of lignin in the oil palm plantlets such as low G lignin, indicating a potential mechanism for enhanced susceptibility toward G. boninense infection.
Stratigraphic architecture of the Cenozoic succession in the McMurdo Sound region, Antarctica: An archive of polar palaeoenvironmental change in a failed rift setting
Authors: Fielding Christopher R.
Published: September 2017

The Victoria Land Basin forms part of the failed West Antarctic Rift, and preserves a Cenozoic succession up to 4 km thick that records the onset of Cenozoic glaciation, and the history of Antarctic glaciation over the past 34 Myr. This succession is relevant both to investigations of modern climate change and to studies of long‐term palaeoclimate change in general. This study provides a sedimentological and stratigraphic review of the Victoria Land Basin succession, based on analysis of several continuous drillcores acquired since the 1970s, and supported by seismic stratigraphic analysis of a large array of seismic reflection data. An array of fifteen lithofacies is recognized within the Victoria Land Basin Cenozoic succession, including fossiliferous and diversely bioturbated mudrocks and diatomites, texturally mature sandstones and conglomerates, mixed mudstones and sandstones with dispersed gravel with restricted bioturbation, and diamictites and associated lithologies. These facies record a variety of marine, glaciomarine, proglacial and subglacial environments. Locally, volcanic and volcaniclastic deposits are interbedded in the succession. Lithofacies are arranged in repetitive vertical stacking patterns (depositional sequences) that record glacial advance–retreat cycles with attendant relative sea‐level changes. Seven varieties of depositional sequences (stratigraphic motifs) are recognized within the succession as a whole, and interpreted to record a range of depositional settings from rifts unaffected by glacial ice (Motif 7), through varying degrees of glacial influence with abundant meltwater contributions (Motifs 6 to 3), to cold, polar glaciated environments such as that of today (Motifs 2 and 1). Overall, there is a gradual trend upward through the succession from Motif 7 at the base towards Motif 1 at the top, but the trend is not monotonic. A significant conclusion of this work is that a record of dynamic climate and glacial conditions is preserved through the entire 34 Myr period of the Cenozoic icehouse, at least in the Victoria Land Basin. Intervals characterized by consistent stratigraphic style (motifs) are recognized throughout the Victoria Land Basin succession. These intervals are of 1 to 6 Myr duration, each containing numerous depositional sequences; they are one to two orders of magnitude longer than glacial–interglacial cycles, and record periods during which environmental conditions varied in an internally consistent manner. These intervals are considered to reflect convolutions of orbital parameters that remained stable for periods of 106 a, and then switched to alternative configurations. Such intervals are directly analogous to 1 to 8 Myr intervals characterized by glaciogenic strata that are preserved within the late Palaeozoic of eastern Australia among other areas, and may be a recurring stratigraphic response to icehouse climate regimes through geological time.
Enhancements of Non‐parametric Generalized Likelihood Ratio Test: Bias Correction and Dimension Reduction
Authors: Niu Cuizhen , Guo Xu , Zhu Lixing
Published: September 2017

Non‐parametric generalized likelihood ratio test is a popular method of model checking for regressions. However, there are two issues that may be the barriers for its powerfulness: existing bias term and curse of dimensionality. The purpose of this paper is thus twofold: a bias reduction is suggested and a dimension reduction‐based adaptive‐to‐model enhancement is recommended to promote the power performance. The proposed test statistic still possesses the Wilks phenomenon and behaves like a test with only one covariate. Thus, it converges to its limit at a much faster rate and is much more sensitive to alternative models than the classical non‐parametric generalized likelihood ratio test. As a by‐product, we also prove that the bias‐corrected test is more efficient than the one without bias reduction in the sense that its asymptotic variance is smaller. Simulation studies and a real data analysis are conducted to evaluate of proposed tests.
Seroepidemiological trend of strongyloidiasis in the Bolivian Chaco (1987–2013) in the absence of disease‐specific control measures
Authors: Spinicci Michele , Macchioni Fabio , Mantella Antonia , Gabrielli Simona , Roselli Mimmo , Rojo Mayaregua David , Monasterio Pinckert Joaquín , Gamboa Barahona Herlan , Paredes Grover Adolfo , Halkyer Percy , Cancrini Gabriella , Olliaro Piero , Montresor Antonio , Bartoloni Alessandro
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis infections is grossly underestimated because infections go mostly undetected, although they can persist for a lifetime due to the auto‐infective cycle. In the Bolivian Chaco, the prevalence of soil‐transmitted nematodes dropped dramatically in the past 25 years, but the mebendazole used for preventive chemotherapy has no effect on S. stercoralis. Meanwhile, the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections remains unchanged. We compared S. stercoralis seroprevalence in rural communities of the Bolivian Chaco from 1987 to 2013.

Methods

Sera collected during two previous serosurveys, conducted in the Chaco region in 1987 and 2013, were tested for S. stercoralis using a commercial assay (Bordier‐ELISA, Bordier Affinity Products, Switzerland).

Results

Overall, 355 sera were analysed, 122 from the 1987 survey and 233 from the 2013 survey. Seropositivity for S. stercoralis was significantly more prevalent in 1987 (19/122, 16% in 1987 vs. 15/233, 6% in 2013, P = 0.006), accounted for by a drop from 17% to 3% in people under 26 years of age. Multivariate analysis showed a significant association between seropositivity for S. stercoralis and age in the 2013 population (OR 1.03 for each one‐year increase, 95%CI 1.00–1.05, P = 0.04), but none in 1987.

Conclusions

The significant reduction in S. stercoralis seroprevalence in Bolivian Chaco cannot be explained by preventive chemotherapy or improved social‐sanitary conditions. As the drop is seen in younger generations, it is consistent with little transmission occurring. However, the risk of transmission still exists, as prevalence is persistently high in older individuals, who present a potential reservoir due to the lifelong nature of S. stercoralis infections.
Computed tomographic appearance of canine tonsillar neoplasia: 14 cases
Authors: Thierry Florence , Longo Maurizio , Pecceu Evi , Zani Davide D. , Schwarz Tobias
Published: September 2017

The palatine tonsil is an uncommon site of oral canine neoplasia. For affected tonsils, squamous cell carcinoma is the most frequent type of neoplasia, followed by melanoma and lymphoma. Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly used for investigation of canine oropharyngeal pathology; however, limited information is available on the CT appearance of tonsillar neoplasms. Objectives of this retrospective descriptive case series were to characterize the CT features of canine tonsillar neoplasia and determine whether specific CT features differentiate nonneoplastic from neoplastic tonsils. Computed tomographic studies of 14 dogs diagnosed with tonsillar neoplasia were retrieved from two referral hospitals and reviewed by two observers. Diagnosis was based on histology or cytology. Carcinoma was diagnosed in 11 dogs, melanoma in two and lymphoma in one dog. Specific CT features of the tonsil and regional lymph nodes did not differentiate neoplastic from nonneoplastic tonsillar diseases, but regional lymph node CT features were useful for diagnosis in some cases. Marked enlargement (width ≥ 18 mm, 12/18), heterogeneity (16/18), and loss of the hypoattenuating hilus (18/18) of the medial retropharyngeal lymph node were common concomitant features of tonsillar neoplasia. The medial retropharyngeal and mandibular lymphadenomegaly was ipsilateral to the neoplastic tonsil in 8/12 and 6/9 dogs, respectively. Five dogs demonstrated little or no enlargement of the tonsil despite the associated metastatic lymphadenomegaly. Tonsillar neoplasia should therefore be considered as a differential diagnosis for dogs with CT evidence of isolated medial retropharyngeal lymphadenomegaly (regardless of normally sized tonsils), or of any enlarged tonsil with no associated lymphadenomegaly.
Infectious dose‐dependent accumulation of live highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in chicken skeletal muscle—implications for public health
Authors: Vasudevan G. , Vanamayya P. R. , Nagarajan S. , Rajukumar K. , Suba S. , Venketash G. , Tosh C. , Sood R. , Nissly R. H. , Kuchipudi S. V.
Published: September 2017

Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIV) of H5N1 subtype are a major global threat to poultry and public health. Export of poultry products, such as chicken and duck meat, is a known source for the cross‐boundary spread of HPAI H5N1 viruses. Humans get infected with HPAI H5N1 viruses either by close contact with infected poultry or through consumption of fresh/undercooked poultry meat. Skeletal muscle is the largest soft tissue in chicken that has been shown to contain virus during systemic HPAIV infection and supports productive virus infection. However, the time between infection of a chicken with H5N1 virus and presence of virus in muscle tissue is not yet known. Further, it is also not clear whether chicken infected with low doses of H5N1 virus that cause non‐fatal subclinical infections continue to accumulate virus in skeletal muscle. We investigated the amount and duration of virus detection in skeletal muscle of chicken experimentally infected with different doses (102, 103 and 104 EID50) of a HPAI H5N1 virus. Influenza viral antigen could be detected as early as 6 hr after infection and live virus was recovered from 48 hr after infection. Notably, chicken infected with lower levels of HPAI H5N1 virus (i.e., 102 EID50) did not die acutely, but continued to accumulate high levels of H5N1 virus in skeletal muscle until 6 days post‐infection. Our data suggest that there is a potential risk of human exposure to H5N1 virus through meat from clinically healthy chicken infected with a low dose of virus. Our results highlight the need to implement rigorous monitoring systems to screen poultry meat from H5N1 endemic countries to limit the global spread of H5N1 viruses.
Extracellular acidosis selectively inhibits pharmacomechanical coupling induced by carbachol in strips of rat gastric fundus
Authors: de Oliveira Daniel Maia Nogueira , Batista‐Lima Francisco José , de Carvalho Emanuella Feitosa , Havt Alexandre , da Silva Moisés Tolentino Bento , dos Santos Armênio Aguiar , Magalhães Pedro Jorge Caldas
Published: September 2017

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Acute acidosis that results from short‐term exercise is involved in delayed gastric emptying in rats and the lower responsiveness of gastric fundus strips to carbachol. Does extracellular acidosis decrease responsiveness to carbachol in tissues of sedentary rats? How?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Extracellular acidosis inhibits cholinergic signalling in the rat gastric fundus by selectively influencing the Gq/11 protein signalling pathway.

Acute acidosis that results from short‐term exercise delays gastric emptying in rats and decreases the responsiveness to carbachol in gastric fundus strips. The regulation of cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations appears to be a mechanism of action of acidosis. The present study investigated the way in which acidosis interferes with gastric smooth muscle contractions. Rat gastric fundus isolated strips at pH 6.0 presented a lower magnitude of carbachol‐induced contractions compared with preparations at pH 7.4. This lower magnitude was absent in carbachol‐stimulated duodenum and KCl‐stimulated gastric fundus strips. In Ca2+‐free conditions, repeated contractions that were induced by carbachol progressively decreased, with no influence of extracellular pH. In fundus strips, CaCl2‐induced contractions were lower at pH 6.0 than at pH 7.4 but only when stimulated in the combined presence of carbachol and verapamil. In contrast, verapamil‐sensitive contractions that were induced by CaCl2 in the presence of KCl did not change with pH acidification. In Ca2+ store‐depleted preparations that were treated with thapsigargin, the contractions that were induced by extracellular Ca2+ restoration were smaller at pH 6.0 than at pH 7.4, but relaxation that was induced by SKF‐96365 (an inhibitor of store‐operated Ca2+ entry) was unaltered by extracellular acidification. At pH 6.0, the phospholipase C inhibitor U‐73122 relaxed carbachol‐induced contractions less than at pH 7.4, and this phenomenon was absent in tissue that was treated with the RhoA kinase blocker Y‐27632. Thus, extracellular acidosis inhibited pharmacomechanical coupling in gastric fundus by selectively inhibiting the Gq/11 protein signalling pathway, whereas electromechanical coupling remained functionally preserved.
Task‐dependent output of human parasternal intercostal motor units across spinal levels
Authors: Hudson Anna L. , Gandevia Simon C. , Butler Jane E.
Published: September 2017

Key points

During breathing, there is differential activity in the human parasternal intercostal muscles and the activity is tightly coupled to the known mechanical advantages for inspiration of the same regions of muscles.

It is not known whether differential activity is preserved for the non‐respiratory task of ipsilateral trunk rotation.

In the present study, we compared single motor units during resting breathing and axial rotation of the trunk during apnoea.

We not only confirmed non‐uniform recruitment of motor units across parasternal intercostal muscles in breathing, but also demonstrated that the same motor units show an altered pattern of recruitment in the non‐respiratory task of trunk rotation.

The output of parasternal intercostal motoneurones is modulated differently across spinal levels depending on the task and these results help us understand the mechanisms that may govern task‐dependent differences in motoneurone output.

During inspiration, there is differential activity in the human parasternal intercostal muscles across interspaces. We investigated whether the earlier recruitment of motor units in the rostral interspaces compared to more caudal spaces during inspiration is preserved for the non‐respiratory task of ipsilateral trunk rotation. Single motor unit activity (SMU) was recorded from the first, second and fourth parasternal interspaces on the right side in five participants in two tasks: resting breathing and ‘isometric’ axial rotation of the trunk during apnoea. Recruitment of the same SMUs was compared between tasks (n = 123). During resting breathing, differential activity was indicated by earlier recruitment of SMUs in the first and second interspaces compared to the fourth space in inspiration (P < 0.01). By contrast, during trunk rotation, the same motor units showed an altered pattern of recruitment because SMUs in the first interspace were recruited later and at a higher rotation torque than those in the second and fourth interspaces (P < 0.05). Tested for a subset of SMUs, the reliability of the breathing and rotation tasks, as well as the SMU recruitment measures, was good–excellent [intraclass correlation (2,1): 0.69–0.91]. Thus, the output of parasternal intercostal motoneurones is modulated differently across spinal levels depending on the task. Given that the differential inspiratory output of parasternal intercostal muscles is linked to their relative mechanical effectiveness for inspiration and also that this output is altered in trunk rotation, we speculate that a mechanism matching neural drive to muscle mechanics underlies the task‐dependent differences in output of axial motoneurone pools.
Reproductive cycle of male wall lizard, Podarcis vaucheri (Reptilia: Sauria: Lacertidae), in Djurdjura, Northern Algeria
Authors: Mamou Rabah , Moudilou Elara , Amroun Mansour , Exbrayat Jean-Marie
Published: September 2017

The reproductive cycle of male wall lizard Podarcis vaucheri (Boulenger, 1905) living in Djurdjura Mountain, was analyzed from April until October 2014. Its seasonal mixed-type cycle was characterized by three phases: sexual activity, quiescence and recrudescence. After the emergence of lizards from hibernation, an intense sexual activity was observed in spring (April, May, and June), at which the testicular weight and seminiferous tubules diameter reached their maximal values. At this period, spermiogenesis was also maximal and the spermiation allowed the release of a large quantity of spermatozoa in both the seminiferous tubules and epididymis lumen. In July, a short sexual resting period followed, during which the testes mass and seminiferous tubules diameter decreased. Spermatogonia and some primary spermatocytes were observed against the wall of seminiferous tubules. The recrudescence period (August, September and October) was characterized by a progressive increase of the testis weight and seminiferous tubules diameter. Spermatocytogenesis began in August, and spermiogenesis occurred in September and October, before the diapause period. However, the presence of spermatozoids was not signaled in the epididymis lumen. Field observations and microscopic evidence of testis showed that both sexes reproduced synchronously during spring and early summer
Single-cell analyses to tailor treatments
Authors: Shalek Alex K. , Benson Mikael
Published: September 2017

Single-cell RNA-seq could play a key role in personalized medicine by facilitating characterization of cells, pathways, and genes associated with human diseases such as cancer.
Learning from cancer to promote weight loss
Authors: Shoemaker Ashley
Published: September 2017

Growth differentiation factor 15 suppresses appetite and promotes weight loss by activating a receptor expressed in two brain regions.
Proteomes of
Lactobacillus delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
LBB.B5 Incubated in Milk at Optimal and Low Temperatures
Authors: Yin Xiaochen , Salemi Michelle R. , Phinney Brett S. , Gotcheva Velitchka , Angelov Angel , Marco Maria L.
Published: September 2017

Lactobacillus delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
has a long history of use in yogurt production. Although commonly cocultured with
Streptococcus salivarius
subsp.
thermophilus
in milk, fundamental knowledge of the adaptive responses of
L. delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
to the dairy environment and the consequences of those responses on the use of
L. delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
as a probiotic remain to be elucidated. In this study, we identified proteins of
L. delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
LBB.B5 that are produced in higher quantities in milk at growth-conducive and non-growth-conductive (refrigeration) temperatures compared to laboratory culture medium and further examined whether those
L. delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
cultures were affected differently in their capacity to survive transit through the murine digestive tract. This work provides novel insight into how a major, food-adapted microbe responds to its primary habitat. Such knowledge can be applied to improve starter culture and yogurt production and to elucidate matrix effects on probiotic performance.