bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic profile and mutation spectrum of Leber congenital amaurosis in a larger Indian cohort using high throughput targeted re‐sequencing
Authors: Srikrupa N.N. , Srilekha S. , Sen P. , Arokiasamy T. , Meenakshi S. , Bhende M. , Kapur S. , Soumittra N.
Published: October 2017

To provide a comprehensive data on the prevalence of mutations in Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) candidate genes from a larger Indian cohort. Ninety‐two unrelated subjects were recruited after complete ophthalmic examination and informed consent. Targeted re‐sequencing of 20 candidate genes was performed using Agilent HaloPlex target enrichment assay and sequenced on Illumina MiSeq platform. The data were analyzed using standard bioinformatics pipeline, variants annotated, validated and segregated. Genotype‐phenotype correlation was performed for the mutation‐positive cases. Targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) for the 20 candidate genes generated data with an average sequence coverage and depth of 99.03% and 134X, respectively. Mutations were identified in 61% (56/92) of the cases, which were validated, segregated in the families and absent in 200 control chromosomes. These mutations were observed in 14/20 candidate genes and 39% (21/53) were novel. Distinct phenotypes were observed with respect to genotypes. To our knowledge, this study presents the first comprehensive mutation spectrum of LCA in a large Indian cohort. The mutation‐negative cases indicate scope for finding novel candidate gene(s) although mutations in deep intronic and regulatory regions cannot be ruled out.
Threats to biodiversity from cumulative human impacts in one of North America's last wildlife frontiers
Authors: Shackelford Nancy , Standish Rachel J. , Ripple William , Starzomski Brian M.
Published: October 2017

Land‐use change is the largest proximate threat to biodiversity yet remains one of the most complex to manage. In British Columbia (BC), where large mammals roam extensive tracts of intact habitat, continued land‐use development is of global concern. Extant mammal diversity in BC is unrivalled in North America owing, in part, to its unique position at the intersection of alpine, boreal, and temperate biomes. Despite high conservation values, understanding of cumulative ecological impacts from human development is limited. Using cumulative‐effects‐assessment (CEA) methods, we assessed the current human footprint over 16 regional ecosystems and 7 large mammal species. Using historical and current range estimates of the mammals, we investigated impacts of human land use on species’ persistence. For ecosystems, we found that bunchgrass, coastal Douglas fir, and ponderosa pine have been subjected to over 50% land‐use conversion, and over 85% of their spatial extent has undergone either direct or estimated indirect impacts. Of the mammals we considered, wolves were the least affected by land conversion, yet all species had reduced ranges compared with historical estimates. We found evidence of a hard trade‐off between development and conservation, most clearly for mammals with large distributions and ecosystems with high levels of conversion. Rather than serve as a platform to monitor species decline, we strongly advocate these data be used to inform land‐use planning and to assess current conservation efforts. More generally, CEAs offer a robust tool to inform wildlife and habitat conservation at scale.
Leveraging natural capital to solve the shared education and conservation crisis
Authors: Stevenson Kathryn T. , Peterson M. Nils , Dunn Robert R.
Published: October 2017

Article impact statement: Promoting natural capital in schools mitigates educational inequalities and preserves biodiversity.
Primary chondro‐osseous melanoma (chondrosarcomatous and osteosarcomatous melanoma)
Authors: Ali Ali M. , Wang Wei‐Lien , Lazar Alexander J.
Published: October 2017

Melanoma can rarely show malignant chondro‐osseous differentiation and can cause diagnostic confusion. We report 3 cases of primary melanoma with extensive bone and cartilage matrix. The first case arose in the nasal mucosa of a 72‐year‐old woman, the second case in the left index finger of a 26‐year‐old woman and the third case in the left cheek of a 68‐year‐old woman. In tumors where osseous and chondroid differentiation appear in mucosa and skin, primary melanoma with chondro‐osteosarcomatous differentiation should be considered in the differential. Careful histological examination together with clinical correlation and ancillary immunohistochemical studies can ensure the correct diagnosis is made.
Clinicopathological analysis of myxoid proximal‐type epithelioid sarcoma
Authors: Zhang Yanyang , Liu Furong , Pan Yuhang , Liang Jing , Jiang Ye , Jin Yi
Published: October 2017

Proximal‐type epithelioid sarcoma (ES) with a diffuse myxoid stroma is rare. Here, we report the case of a 33‐year‐old man with a perineal mass. Imaging showed the presence of a poorly demarcated 6.9 × 5.3‐cm mass in the subcutaneous perineal region. Macroscopic examination showed that the resected tissues were partially necrotic. Histological examination showed that the tumor comprised numerous large or pleomorphic epithelioid cells with large vesicular nuclei and prominent nucleoli. A clear background of necrosis and inflammatory exudates was also present. Immunohistochemical examination showed that the tumor cells were positive for vimentin and CD34 — both of which were expressed throughout the cytoplasm — but typically did not express nuclear INI1 (SMARCB1). Hematoxylin‐eosin staining (HE staining) showed that the mucin content of the tumor was approximately 80%. The patient was diagnosed with proximal‐type ES with myxoid features. The patient died due to disease progression after 2 months of follow‐up and without undergoing further treatment in our department. To our knowledge, only 2 cases of proximal‐type ES with diffuse myxoid stroma have been reported. Proximal‐type ES is rare, and this is the first case report of proximal ES with myxoid features in the perineal area.
Lower thermal tolerance in nocturnal than in diurnal ants: a challenge for nocturnal ectotherms facing global warming
Authors: GARCIA‐ROBLEDO CARLOS , CHUQUILLANQUI HECTOR , KUPREWICZ ERIN K. , ESCOBAR‐SARRIA FEDERICO
Published: October 2017

1. The thermal adaptation hypothesis proposes that because thermoregulation involves a high metabolic cost, thermal limits of organisms must be locally adapted to temperatures experienced in their environments. There is evidence that tolerance to high temperatures decreases in insects inhabiting colder habitats and microclimates. However, it is not clear if thermal limits of ectotherms with contrasting temporal regimes, such as diurnal and nocturnal insects, are also adapted to temperatures associated with their circadian activities.

2. This study explores differences in heat tolerance among diurnal and nocturnal ant species in four ecosystems in Mexico: tropical montane, tropical rainforest, subtropical dry forests, and high‐elevation semi‐desert.

3. The critical thermal maximum (CTmax), i.e. the temperature at which ants lost motor control, was estimated for diurnal and nocturnal species. CTmax for 19 diurnal and 12 nocturnal ant species distributed among 45 populations was also estimated.

4. Semi‐desert and subtropical dry forest ants displayed higher tolerances to high temperatures than did ants in tropical rainforest. The lowest tolerance to high temperatures was recorded in tropical montane forest ants. In general, among all habitats, the CTmax of nocturnal ants was lower than that of diurnal ants.

5. An increase in nocturnal temperatures, combined with lower tolerance to high temperatures, may represent a substantial challenge for nocturnal ectotherms in a warming world.
Mnemonic and attentional roles for states of attenuated alpha oscillations in perceptual working memory: a review
Authors: van Ede Freek
Published: October 2017

Alpha oscillations are often reported to be amplified during working memory (WM) retention, serving to disengage sensory areas to protect internal representations from external interference. At the same time, contemporary views of WM postulate that sensory areas may often also be recruited for retention. I here review recent evidence that during such ‘perceptual’ WM, alpha oscillations in mnemonically relevant sensory areas are not amplified but attenuated instead. I will argue that such attenuated alpha states serve a mnemonic role and, further, that larger attenuation may support item‐specific attentional prioritisation within perceptual WM. In critically evaluating this role, I also consider (and argue against) four alternatives to a strictly mnemonic account of the available data that may also prove useful to consider in future research. Finally, I highlight key implications of these data for the study of WM and for our understanding of the functional roles of states of attenuated alpha oscillations in cognition.
Interactive effects of temperature and moisture on composition of the soil microbial community
Authors: Zhou W. P. , Shen W. J. , Li Y. E. , Hui D. F.
Published: October 2017

A wealth of knowledge exists on the response of soil processes to variation in environmental factors such as temperature and moisture, but the response from the soil microbial communities that control these processes remains poorly understood. We carried out a full factorial incubation experiment to investigate the single and interactive effects of temperature (10, 17, 24, 31 and 38°C) and moisture (20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% water holding capacity (WHC)) on composition of the soil microbial community characterized by the phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) method. The single and interactive effects of temperature and moisture were statistically significant (P < 0.05) for almost all the selected PLFA signatures, including fungi (F), bacteria (B), Gram‐positive bacteria (G+), Gram‐negative bacteria (G−), actinomycetes (ACT) and the bacterial stress index (BSI). Although the F/B ratio increased and the G+/G− ratio decreased with increasing temperature, they were not significantly affected by moisture and its interaction with temperature. In general, the concentrations of fungal PLFAs were smaller at higher temperatures, but not altered by changes in moisture. In contrast, the concentrations of bacterial PLFAs were larger at higher temperatures and moderate moisture contents. Although we manipulated temperature and moisture in the incubation, the treatments and the treatment‐altered soil properties (dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and inorganic nitrogen (ION)) together explained 18% of the total variation in selected PLFA signatures and the temperature effect contributed the most (12%). Significant correlations between community composition variables (F, B and F/B) and soil properties (DOC and ION) indicated substantive indirect effects of temperature and moisture on the composition of the soil microbial community by altering substrate availability. Our results suggest that soil microbial communities might shift towards a more bacteria‐dominated composition under warmer temperatures and moderate moisture conditions in subtropical forest regions.

Highlights

How do temperature and moisture independently and interactively affect soil microbial community composition?

Concentrations of bacterial PLFAs were larger at higher temperatures and moderate moisture.

Concentrations of fungal PLFAs were smaller at higher temperatures, but did not respond to moisture differences.

Increased soil carbon and nitrogen availability mainly benefitted bacteria under higher temperatures and moderate moisture.
Asynchrony among local communities stabilises ecosystem function of metacommunities
Authors: Wilcox Kevin R. , Tredennick Andrew T. , Koerner Sally E. , Grman Emily , Hallett Lauren M. , Avolio Meghan L. , La Pierre Kimberly J. , Houseman Gregory R. , Isbell Forest , Johnson David Samuel , Alatalo Juha M. , Baldwin Andrew H. , Bork Edward W. , Boughton Elizabeth H. , Bowman William D. , Britton Andrea J. , Cahill James F. , Collins Scott L. , Du Guozhen , Eskelinen Anu , Gough Laura , Jentsch Anke , Kern Christel , Klanderud Kari , Knapp Alan K. , Kreyling Juergen , Luo Yiqi , McLaren Jennie R. , Megonigal Patrick , Onipchenko Vladimir , Prevéy Janet , Price Jodi N. , Robinson Clare H. , Sala Osvaldo E. , Smith Melinda D. , Soudzilovskaia Nadejda A. , Souza Lara , Tilman David , White Shannon R. , Xu Zhuwen , Yahdjian Laura , Yu Qiang , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Yunhai
Published: October 2017

Temporal stability of ecosystem functioning increases the predictability and reliability of ecosystem services, and understanding the drivers of stability across spatial scales is important for land management and policy decisions. We used species‐level abundance data from 62 plant communities across five continents to assess mechanisms of temporal stability across spatial scales. We assessed how asynchrony (i.e. different units responding dissimilarly through time) of species and local communities stabilised metacommunity ecosystem function. Asynchrony of species increased stability of local communities, and asynchrony among local communities enhanced metacommunity stability by a wide range of magnitudes (1–315%); this range was positively correlated with the size of the metacommunity. Additionally, asynchronous responses among local communities were linked with species’ populations fluctuating asynchronously across space, perhaps stemming from physical and/or competitive differences among local communities. Accordingly, we suggest spatial heterogeneity should be a major focus for maintaining the stability of ecosystem services at larger spatial scales.
Climate drivers of diatom distribution in shallow subarctic lakes
Authors: Rantala Marttiina V. , Luoto Tomi P. , Weckström Jan , Rautio Milla , Nevalainen Liisa
Published: October 2017

Global warming can induce profound changes to the functioning of northern freshwater ecosystems. Diatom (Bacillariophyceae) communities often provide early warning signs of associated ecological regime shifts, responding sensitively to alterations in underwater light climate, nutrient regimes, habitat availability and lake water acid–base balance. The underlying mechanisms are manifold and may be mediated via direct climate impact on the physical and chemical properties of lakes or via changes in the terrestrial environment and catchment‐lake coupling.

To address catchment‐mediated climate effects on diatom community composition, spatial diatom distribution in the surface sediments of 31 subarctic treeline lakes displaying a broad gradient in terrestrial dissolved organic matter (tDOM) was contrasted with limnological indices of light climate, nutrient availability and lake water pH. To evaluate direct and indirect climate impacts on the long‐term development of benthic phototrophic communities at the subarctic treeline, fossil diatom assemblages in the sediments of a shallow oligotrophic lake were examined against established temperature variability and inferences of terrestrial influence over the past 600 years. The regional lake set was used to test local calibration models for reconstructing dissolved organic carbon as well as lake water pH that is a fundamental environmental determinant for diatom distribution and may echo temperature variability in dilute lakes.

Across the treeline, lake water pH imposed primary control over the benthic‐dominated surface sediment diatom communities. The pH influence was connected to catchment geomorphology, soils and vegetation cover and, together with habitat controls, largely superseded tDOM impact on underwater light attenuation and nutrient levels. Similarly, temporal changes in diatom distribution in the sediment core appeared to be relatively little affected by tDOM variability. The species shifts were subtle yet occurred in distinct synchrony with centennial temperature fluctuations, attributed to changing length of the ice cover period and associated effects on lake water chemistry, nutrient regimes and physical habitats.

Our results suggest that diatom flora in shallow lakes at the subarctic Fennoscandian treeline may be comparatively resilient towards climate‐driven changes in terrestrial carbon and nutrient fluxes. Diatom communities in poorly buffered lakes may, however, be susceptible to catchment greening and changes in hydrology through effects on lake water acid–base balance. While diatom responses in the sediment sequence were subtle, the palaeolimnological record indicates that periphytic diatom communities in shallow oligotrophic subarctic lakes may be sensitive to the effects of global warming.
Hot debate in hot springs: Report on the second international meeting on SMC proteins
Authors: Hirano Tatsuya , Nishiyama Tomoko , Shirahige Katsuhiko
Published: October 2017

The second international meeting on “SMC proteins: Chromosomal Organizers from Bacteria to Human” (SMC2017) was held in Nanyo City, Yamagata, Japan, from 13 to 16 June 2017. The meeting was attended by 134 participants (among them, 76 from outside of Japan) who were interested in one of the highly conserved classes of chromosomal proteins regulating large‐scale chromosome structure and function. A keynote lecture was followed by 41 oral presentations and 71 poster presentations in the four‐day meeting. Diverse topics surrounding eukaryotic SMC protein complexes (cohesins, condensins and SMC5/6) and prokaryotic SMCs, and a wide range of cutting‐edge approaches (from polymer physics through medical genetics) were presented. Dominant themes discussed in the meeting included mechanistically how the SMC protein complexes might form chromatin loops and domains. The participants enjoyed both exciting debate about chromosome organization and warm welcome offered by local people in a small city located in the northern part of Japan.
Invisible Punishment is Wrong – But Why? The Normative Basis of Criticism of Collateral Consequences of Criminal Conviction
Authors: BENNETT CHRISTOPHER
Published: October 2017

This article is concerned with the way in which criminal justice systems cause harms that go well beyond the ‘headline’ punishment announced at sentencing. This is the phenomenon of ‘collateral consequences of criminal conviction’. This phenomenon has been widely criticised in recent criminological literature. However, the critics do not normally explore or defend the normative basis of their claims – as they need to if their arguments are to strike home against sceptics. I argue that the normative basis of the critics’ position should be seen as involving important normative claims about the responsibilities that societies have towards those who break the law. Some important strands of criticism, I claim, rest on the view that we have associative duties towards offenders (and their dependants and communities) as fellow participants in a collective democratic enterprise, duties that are violated when states impose, or allow, harms that go significantly beyond the sentence.
Multi‐Method Synergy: Using the Life History Calendar and Life as a Film for Retrospective Narratives
Authors: KANG TIMOTHY , KRUTTSCHNITT CANDACE , GOODMAN PHILIP
Published: October 2017

As scholars of crime increasingly use narratives elicited from people found guilty of committing crime, it is critical that we reflect methodologically and theoretically on exactly how researchers collect those narratives, and what scholars do with people's stories and conceptualisations of their past, present, and future. To contribute to these reflections, we examine the utility of the Life History Calendar (LHC) and the Life as a Film (LAAF) procedure for collecting retrospective life histories from incarcerated chronic offenders. We note the respective advantages of each method, particularly for capturing the dynamic social contexts and reflected appraisals during critical periods of the life course of offenders. Most importantly, we argue that using the LHC and the LAAF together not only supplements the deficiencies of each method, but they also work together synergistically to improve the breadth and depth of data collection and our ability to understand the interplay between narratives, context, and experience.
The Mechanics of Reform: Implementing Correctional Programmes in English Prisons
Authors: BULLOCK KAREN , BUNCE ANNIE , DODDS CHARLOTTE
Published: October 2017

Delivering correctional programmes in the prison environment has proved challenging, and desired outcomes have not always been achieved. Drawing on interview data, this article considers the mechanics through which programmes are introduced into English prisons and how the environment shapes what is accomplished. We argue that the operation of programmes is influenced by institutional features (such as values, priorities and resources), situational features (such as the challenges posed by operating in the secure environment), and interactional factors (such as the attitudes of prison staff and the nature of programme‐prison staff relations).
TheAnopheles gambiaeATP‐binding cassette transporter family: phylogenetic analysis and tissue localization provide clues on function and role in insecticide resistance
Authors: Pignatelli P. , Ingham V. A. , Balabanidou V. , Vontas J. , Lycett G. , Ranson H.
Published: October 2017

The role of ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters in conferring insecticide resistance has received much attention recently. Here we identify ABC transporters differentially expressed in insecticide‐resistant populations of the malaria vector,Anopheles gambiae. Although we found little evidence that the orthologues of the multidrug resistance proteins described in other species are associated with resistance inAn. gambiaewe did identify a subset of ABC proteins consistently differentially expressed in pyrethroid‐resistant populations from across Africa. We present information on the phylogenetic relationship, primary sites of expression and potential role of ABC transporters in mediating the mosquito's response to insecticides. Furthermore we demonstrate that a paralogous group of eight ABCG transporters, clustered on chromosome 3R, are highly enriched in the legs ofAn. gambiaemosquitoes, consistent with a proposed role for this ABC subfamily in transport of lipids to the outer surface of the cuticle. Finally, antibodies raised against one of the most highly expressed ABC transporters in adult females, ABCG7 (AGAP009850), localized this transporter to the pericardial cells. These data will help prioritize members of this gene family for further localization and functional validation studies to identify thein vivofunction of these transporters in the mosquito and determine whether elevated expression of members of this family contribute to insecticide resistance.
Characteristics of adrenal incidentalomas in a New Zealand centre
Authors: Goh Ziwei , Phillips Ian , Hunt Penny J. , Soule Steven , Cawood Tom J.
Published: October 2017

Background

Management of adrenal incidentalomas (AI) is becoming more conservative, based on international data showing a low incidence of functional or malignant lesions. The clinical characteristics of AI in New Zealand are unknown. Therefore, whether the AI guidelines apply to the New Zealand population is also unknown.

Aims

To investigate the clinical characteristics of patients with AI presenting to a tertiary‐care centre in New Zealand.

Method

This study prospectively evaluated consecutive patients aged 18 or older with AI, 1 cm or larger, diagnosed in Canterbury, New Zealand. A standardised nurse‐led dedicated AI clinic was used, including clinical assessment, hormonal evaluation and imaging.

Results

From January 2010 to April 2016, 306 patients were referred to the AI clinic, 228 met the inclusion criteria. Most of those excluded were not true AI, due to imaging performed for known or suspected non‐adrenal malignancy.

The most common reason for imaging was abdominal pain (46%). Most cases were benign (96.5%) and 88.6% of all cases were non‐functional. Of the functioning tumours (26 patients), 18 had subclinical Cushing syndrome, four had late‐onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia, two had phaeochromocytoma and one had primary hyperaldosteronism. Three patients had primary adrenal cancer, one of whom was secreting excess cortisol. One adrenal metastasis was diagnosed.

Conclusion

This study found a similar prevalence of functional and malignant AI as international centres, although mild cortisol excess and primary aldosteronism may be under‐represented. Therefore, the conservative approach to management of AI recommended in current guidelines is likely to be applicable to New Zealand population.
Dealing with the spiralling price of medicines: issues and solutions
Authors: Ma Chun K. K. , Danta Mark , Day Richard , Ma David D. F.
Published: October 2017

Escalating cost of medicines is rapidly becoming a serious threat to patients and health systems. This trend has been documented to impact patient outcomes adversely. As clinicians and tax payers, it is our responsibility to be aware of the potential detrimental effects spiralling costs have on our patients, our community and our health system and to mitigate these effects by exposing this issue to our respective professional societies, representatives of the pharmaceutical companies that we interact with, government regulatory bodies and to patients who we are caring for. Only through understanding and constructive actions will we be able to provide the best quality of care to our patients and continue to enjoy universal healthcare in our country.
Defining a standard and weighted mathematical index for maturation of dendritic cells
Authors: Landi Abdolamir , Aligodarzi Mohammad Tayfeh , Khodadadi Ali , Babiuk Lorne A. , van Drunen Littel‐van den Hurk Sylvia
Published: October 2017

The concept of dendritic cell (DC) maturation generally refers to the changes in morphology and function of DCs. Conventionally, DC maturity is based on three criteria: loss of endocytic ability, gain of high‐level capacity to present antigens and induce proliferation of T cells, and mobility of DCs toward high concentrations of CCL19. Impairment of DC maturation has been suggested as the main reason for infectivity or chronicity of several infectious agents. In the case of hepatitis C virus, this has been a matter of controversy for the last two decades. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the method of ex vivo maturation as the possible source of such controversies. We previously reported striking differences between DCs matured with different methods, so we propose the use of a standard quantitative index to determine the level of maturity in DCs as an approach to compare results from different studies. We designed and formulated a mathematically calculated index to numerically define the level of maturity based on experimental data from ex vivo assays. This introduces a standard maturation index (SMI) and weighted maturation index (WMI) based on strictly standardized mean differences between different methods of generating mature DCs. By calculating an SMI and a WMI, numerical values were assigned to the level of maturity achieved by DCs matured with different methods. SMI and WMI could be used as a standard tool to compare diversely generated mature DCs and so better interpret outcomes of ex vivo and in vivo studies with mature DCs.
Grain boundary complexions in silicon carbide
Authors: Cancino‐Trejo Felix , Navarro‐Solis David J. , López‐Honorato Eddie , Rabone Jeremy , Walker Ross C. , Salomon Romelia
Published: October 2017

Understanding the diffusion and release of fission products in nuclear fuels is of great relevance for ensuring high levels of safety of these materials. The origin of the diffusion of silver in TRISO (Tristructural Isotropic) coated fuel particles has remained an open challenge in the study of this type of fuel despite 40 years of development. In this work, we propose that the existence of grain boundary complexions and complexion transitions might be responsible for the complex diffusion behavior observed with silver. We have identified three types of the Dillon‐Harmer complexions in SiC (clean grain boundary, a disordered layer with a ~0.6 nm of thickness, and an intergranular amorphous film) through ultra‐high resolution transmission electron microscopy.
Olmesartan‐based monotherapy vs combination therapy in hypertension: A meta‐analysis based on age and chronic kidney disease status
Authors: Deedwania Prakash , Weber Michael , Reimitz Paul‐Egbert , Bakris George
Published: October 2017

Antihypertensive monotherapy is often insufficient to control blood pressure (BP). Several recent guidelines advocate for initial combination drug therapy in many patients. This meta‐analysis of seven randomized, double‐blind studies (N = 5888) evaluated 8 weeks of olmesartan medoxomil (OM)–based single‐pill dual‐combination therapy (OM+amlodipine/azelnidipine or hydrochlorothiazide) vs OM monotherapy in adults with hypertension. BP‐lowering efficacy, goal achievement, and adverse events were assessed in the full cohort and subgroups (elderly/nonelderly and patients with and without chronic kidney disease). In the full cohort at week 8, for dual therapy vs monotherapy, seated BP was lower (137.5/86.1 mm Hg vs 144.4/89.9 mm Hg), and the mean change from baseline in BP and BP goal achievement (<140/90 mm Hg) were greater (−22.7/−15.0 mm Hg vs −16.0/−11.3 mm Hg and 51.2% vs 34.7%, respectively). Adverse events were similar between groups. BP‐lowering efficacy among subgroups mirrored the findings in the full cohort whereby changes were significantly greater following OM dual‐combination therapy vs OM monotherapy.
Arterial stiffness, sex, and age difference on hypertensive response to supine bicycle exercise
Authors: Chung Hyemoon , Kim Jong‐Youn , Lee Byoung Kwon , Min Pil‐Ki , Yoon Young Won , Hong Bum‐Kee , Rim Se‐Joong , Kwon Hyuck Moon , Choi Eui‐Young
Published: October 2017

Contributors to a hypertensive response to exercise (HTR) according to sex and age have not been fully evaluated. The authors analyzed a database of supine bicycle exercise stress echocardiography findings. HTR was defined as peak systolic blood pressure ≥210 mmHg for men and ≥190 mmHg for women during exercise. A total of 797 patients (306 [38%] women) were analyzed, with a mean age of 64 ± 10 years. Female sex, hypertension; higher left ventricular ejection fraction, effective arterial elastance, and pulse wave velocity; and lower total arterial compliance were significantly related to HTR. Patients with HTR had higher relative wall thickness, ratio of early diastolic mitral inflow and annular velocity, and diastolic elastance (all P ≤ .05). In multivariable analysis, indices of arterial stiffness such as pulse wave velocity, arterial elastance, total arterial compliance, and systemic vascular resistance were more strongly related in women, while in men, index of sympathetic activation was additionally related to HTR (all P ≤ .05). Female sex and lower total arterial compliance in older patients (≥65 years) and higher systemic vascular resistance and left ventricular relative wall thickness in younger patients were more strongly related to HTR. In conclusion, HTR was related to arterial stiffness, sympathetic activation, and diastolic dysfunction; however, the associations were different according to sex and age, which might guide individualized therapy.
Efficacy of biopesticides on spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii Matsumura in fall red raspberries
Authors: Fanning P. D. , Grieshop M. J. , Isaacs R.
Published: October 2017

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura is a significant pest of soft‐skinned fruit. Larvae of D. suzukii develop within the fruit making it unmarketable as fresh berries and increasing the risk of rejection by processors. We evaluated selected biopesticides for control of D. suzukii in fall red raspberries, Rubus idaeus L. The trial results highlight a small number of biopesticides with the potential to reduce infestation of Drosophila larvae in raspberries. In addition to the standard biopesticide spinosad, we found that sabadilla alkaloids and Chromobacterium subtsugae both reduced the number of Drosophila larvae in raspberry fruit. Treatments that included corn syrup as a feeding stimulant showed no significant difference in their infestation levels compared to treatments without the syrup. In the final week of the 5‐week trial, treatments with rotations of either spinosad/C. subtsugae or spinosad/sabadilla alkaloids had a 67% and 57% reduction in infestation when compared to untreated raspberries. Treatments of spinosad alone on a 7 day rotation and C. subtsugae alone on a 3–5 day rotation both had a 62% and 61% reduction in larval infestation when compared to untreated raspberries. Third instar larvae, the largest and most damaging, were significantly reduced in plots treated with spinosad only, a rotation of spinosad/sabadilla alkaloids and the rotation of spinosad/C. subtsugae with corn syrup added when compared to untreated plots. This suggests that either of these biopesticides could be used as effective rotation partners along with spinosad for control of D. suzukii. Our results highlight that biopesticides can provide significant reduction in this devastating pest when used alone or in combination, providing options to support resistance management.
Environmentally sustainable pest control options forDrosophila suzukii
Authors: Schetelig M. F. , Lee K.‐Z. , Otto S. , Talmann L. , Stökl J. , Degenkolb T. , Vilcinskas A. , Halitschke R.
Published: October 2017

The spotted‐wing drosophila or cherry vinegar fly (Drosophila suzukii) is native to Asia but has invaded other continents since 2008 and has spread throughout Europe. The females have a serrated ovipositor allowing them to penetrate the skins of intact ripening fruits to deposit their eggs, and the developing larvae rapidly destroy the fruits close to harvest.Drosophila suzukiihas a rapid life cycle and the larvae develop well beneath the fruit surface. This means that the use of pesticides is problematic and often not effective, first due to their restricted use close to harvest to protect consumers, and second because the larvae are deep enough inside the fruit to avoid contact. There are currently no effective and environmentally sustainable pest control methods for this species, resulting in extensive damage to fruit crops. Here, we review the current status ofD. suzukiias a fruit crop pest and discuss the feasibility of current pesticide‐free control methods. We also consider the potential of new technologies as a basis for the urgently needed specific and long‐term control of this species.
Implementing routine outcome monitoring in public mental health services in Israel: Shared and unique challenges
Authors: Tzur Bitan Dana , Ganor Ori , Biran Lior , Bloch Yuval
Published: October 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of routine outcome monitoring (ROM) in a public mental health centre in Israel. This is the first initiation of ROM implementation in a setting of a large psychiatric hospital, affiliated with the largest health maintenance organization in Israel, Clalit Health Services.

Methods

Four ambulatory units were invited to participate in the implementation of ROM. Prior to initiation of recruitment, staff meetings were held and broad descriptions of current knowledge regarding benefits and challenges were discussed. Upon initiation of recruitment, patients completed outcome and process questionnaires during each session, and reports of patients' progress were sent to therapists soon after sessions ended.

Results

One hundred sixty‐three patients were invited to participate in measurement and feedback of therapy outcomes. Overall, 101 patients and 32 therapists agreed and actively participated in the implementation phase of ROM, producing 535 evaluated measurements and reports. Clinical, methodological, legal, administrative, and ethical aspects of the implementation were encountered and documented throughout the implementation process.

Conclusions

Medical confidentiality issues, as well as the multidisciplinary nature of hospital staff work, serve as central and unique challenges for incorporating ROM in a public psychiatric hospital. Other challenges that were previously reported in other implementation studies were also encountered and included therapist overload and objections, attrition, and the need for organizational support. Recommendations for future pioneering efforts for ROM implementation in large psychiatric facilities are discussed.
Establishment of a cell line from the kidney of black carp and its susceptibility to spring viremia of carp virus
Authors: Xue T , Wang Y Z , Pan Q H , Wang Q , Yuan J F , Chen T S
Published: October 2017

In this study, we established and characterized a cell line derived from the kidney of black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), which is an important freshwater aquaculture species. The cell line was designated as MPK and subcultured for more than 70 passages in DMEM medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) at 28°C. MPK had a modal diploid chromosome number of 48. Moreover, a transient MPK transfection efficiency was up to 18% using a green fluorescent protein plasmid by a modified electroporation. In addition, the MPK cells showed susceptibility to spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV), as demonstrated by the presence of severe cytopathic effects (CPEs) and increased viral RNA. Unexpectedly, the MPK cells expressed pluripotency‐associated genes such as nanog, oct4 and vasa, indicating that these are possibly adult stem cells. Taken together, we have established a stable cell line from kidney that may potentially be utilized as an in vitro platform for genetic modifications and host–pathogen analysis in black carp.
Chronic inflammation predicts long‐term mortality in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon
Authors: Mueller M. , Gschwandtner M. E. , Gamper J. , Giurgea G.‐A. , Kiener H. P. , Perkmann T. , Koppensteiner R. , Schlager O.
Published: October 2017

Background

Subclinical chronic inflammation could be the driving force behind the recently revealed association between abnormal nailfold capillaries as well as autoantibodies and long‐term mortality in patients with incipient Raynaud's phenomenon. Whether laboratory markers that reflect a chronic inflammatory process are directly related to mortality in Raynaud's phenomenon is not known.

Methods

In total, 2958 patients with incipient Raynaud's phenomenon without previously known connective tissue disease (CTD) were enrolled. At their initial presentation, laboratory tests for C‐reactive protein (CRP), leucocytes, fibrinogen and the haemoglobin concentration were obtained. In addition, nailfold capillaries and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) were assessed. Patients’ mortality was recorded through a median follow‐up period of 9.3 years.

Results

Baseline CRP, fibrinogen and haemoglobin concentration were associated with long‐term mortality in an individual analysis of patients with incipient Raynaud′s phenomenon. In a multivariable model including patients’ age, nailfold capillaries and ANA, a low haemoglobin concentration remained independently related to future mortality. Amongst potential predictors for mortality in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon, a low haemoglobin concentration was most strongly related to patients’ mortality risk.

Conclusion

In Raynaud's phenomenon, laboratory markers that can be attributed to a chronic inflammatory state independently yield prognostic information in addition to the presence of abnormal nailfold capillaries and ANA. Amongst all prognostic markers, the haemoglobin concentration is most strongly related to patients’ mortality in Raynaud's phenomenon.
In ovo feeding of carbohydrates for broilers—a systematic review
Authors: Retes P. L. , Clemente A. H. S. , Neves D. G. , Espósito M. , Makiyama L. , Alvarenga R. R. , Pereira L. J. , Zangeronimo M. G.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence that the injection of carbohydrate‐based solutions into embryonated eggs improves broiler performance. A literature search was conducted in April 2017 using the keywords broiler, carbohydrate, in ovo, nutrition and poultry. Only papers that involved in ovo carbohydrate injections in poultry were used in this study. After specific selection criteria, 17 papers were selected. The quality scoring system of the selected studies was based on the injection methodology, use of control groups, type of solution injected, period of injection, egg and hens characteristics, number of variables analysed and the statistical design. Among papers, there was no standardised procedure in to inoculate the solutions. Nevertheless, in general, in ovo feeding of carbohydrates decreases the hatch rate, improves the hatch weight, but it does not seem to influence the post‐hatch performance of broilers. The inoculation of 75 mg of glucose in the albumen seems to bring better results. Further studies are needed to improve the technical methodology of in ovo injections for commercial use.
Phylogeny and maternal donor of Roegneria and its affinitive genera (Poaceae: Triticeae) based on sequence data for two chloroplast DNA regions (ndhF and trnH–psbA)
Authors: Lei Ying‐Xia , Liu Jia , Fan Xing , Sha Li‐Na , Wang Yi , Kang Hou‐Yang , Zhou Yong‐Hong , Zhang Hai‐Qin
Published: October 2017

Roegneria C. Koch is a relatively large polyploid perennial genus with 130 species in the Triticeae, and consisting of the St and Y genomes. There are different opinions about whether Roegneria is an independent genus, or whether it should be included in the genus Elymus L. For many species of Roegneria, their genome constitution and phylogenetic relationship are still unknown. More research about the maternal genome donor of the Roegneria species is needed. To investigate the phylogenetic relationships and maternal genome donor of Roegneria and its affinitive genera, phylogenetic analyses of two chloroplast regions ndhF and trnH–psbA sequences were carried out in this study. The results showed that: (i) Campeiostachys Drobow (StYH) and all Roegneria (StY, StStY) species were scattered with Pseudoroegneria Á. Löve (St) species; (ii) R. sinica Keng, R. schugnanica (Nevski) Nevski, R. seriotina Keng, and Elymus calcicolus (Keng) Á. Löve containing the St genome; (iii) there was differentiation among species of Pseudoroegneria; and (iv) the St genome in diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid species are divergent. Thus, it is suggested that: (i) Pseudoroegneria served as the maternal genome donor of Roegneria, including four species with unknown genomic constitutions (R. sinica, R. schugnanica, R. seriotina, and E. calcicolus); (ii) species of Roegneria or Pseudoroegneria might serve as the maternal genome donor of Campeiostachys; and (iii) the St genome has undergone differentiation during polyploidization in diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid species.
Rhythmic Rhymes for Boosting Phonological Awareness in Socially Disadvantaged Children
Authors: Kuppen Sarah E. A. , Bourke Emilie
Published: October 2017

This study evaluated the ability for two rhythmic rhyming programs to raise phonological awareness in the early literacy classroom. Year 1 (5–6‐year‐olds) from low socioeconomic status schools in Bedfordshire, learned a program of sung or spoken rhythmic rhymes, or acted as controls. The project ran with two independent cohorts (Cohort 1 N = 98, Cohort 2 N = 136). Program‐related gains from pre‐ to post‐tests of phonological awareness (Rhyme Detection, Rhyme Production, and Phoneme Deletion), were statistically significant with the exception of Rhyme Detection in the Spoken group (Cohort 1) and Rhyme Production in the Sung group (Cohort 2). The Spoken program achieved medium and large effect sizes for Cohort 1 on measures of rhyming awareness (although the effect size was small for Cohort 2). Comparatively, the Sung program was associated with smaller effects (small, negligible, or with a small positive effect for Controls) across tasks and cohorts.
Freezing does not alter multiscale tendon mechanics and damage mechanisms in tension
Authors: Lee Andrea H. , Elliott Dawn M.
Published: October 2017

It is common in biomechanics to use previously frozen tissues, where it is assumed that the freeze–thaw process does not cause consequential mechanical or structural changes. We have recently quantified multiscale tendon mechanics and damage mechanisms using previously frozen tissue, where damage was defined as an irreversible change in the microstructure that alters the macroscopic mechanical parameters. Because freezing has been shown to alter tendon microstructures, the objective of this study was to determine if freezing alters tendon multiscale mechanics and damage mechanisms. Multiscale testing using a protocol that was designed to evaluate tendon damage (tensile stress–relaxation followed by unloaded recovery) was performed on fresh and previously frozen rat tail tendon fascicles. At both the fascicle and fibril levels, there was no difference between the fresh and frozen groups for any of the parameters, suggesting that there is no effect of freezing on tendon mechanics. After unloading, the microscale fibril strain fully recovered, and interfibrillar sliding only partially recovered, suggesting that the tendon damage is localized to the interfibrillar structures and that mechanisms of damage are the same in both fresh and previously frozen tendons.
Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation for mandibular condyle osteoarthritis lesions in rats
Authors: Kanaguchi Arita A , Yonemitsu I , Ikeda Y , Miyazaki M , Ono T
Published: October 2017

Objective

This study evaluated low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound effects for temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis in adult rats.

Material and methods

Osteoarthritis‐like lesions were induced in 24 adult rats’ temporomandibular joints with low‐dose mono‐iodoacetate injections. The rats were divided into four groups: control and mono‐iodoacetate groups, injected with contrast media and mono‐iodoacetate, respectively, at 12 weeks and observed until 20 weeks; and low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound and mono‐iodoacetate + low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound groups, injected with contrast media and mono‐iodoacetate, respectively, at 12 weeks with low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound performed from 16 to 20 weeks. Condylar bone mineral density, bone mineral content and bone volume were evaluated weekly with microcomputed tomography. Histological and immunohistochemical staining for matrix metalloproteinases‐13 was performed at 20 weeks.

Results

At 20 weeks, the mono‐iodoacetate + low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound group showed significantly higher bone mineral density, bone mineral content and bone volume than the mono‐iodoacetate group; however, these values remained lower than those in the other two groups. On histological and immunohistochemical analysis, the chondrocytes were increased, and fewer matrix metalloproteinases‐13 immunopositive cells were identified in the mono‐iodoacetate + low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound group than mono‐iodoacetate group.

Conclusions

Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound for 2 weeks may have therapeutic potential for treating temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis lesions.