bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eutrophication mediates rapid clonal evolution in Daphnia pulicaria
Authors: Chislock Michael F. , Kaul RajReni B. , Durham Kristin A. , Sarnelle Orlando , Wilson Alan E.
Published: April 2019

Laboratory studies have revealed that Daphnia species can evolve to tolerate toxic cyanobacteria in the diet. Specifically, Daphnia from eutrophic lakes where cyanobacteria are common tend to have higher growth rates and survival when fed toxic cyanobacteria than populations from oligotrophic environments with low abundance of cyanobacteria.

We conducted an in‐lake mesocosm (i.e. limnocorral) experiment during the autumn of 2009 to assess the effects of nutrient enrichment on clonal evolution in Daphnia pulicaria. As nutrient enrichment often favours grazing‐resistant cyanobacteria, we hypothesised that fertilisation would influence the genotypic composition of D. pulicaria that vary in tolerance to cyanobacteria. Mesocosms were fertilised to manipulate phytoplankton and cyanobacterial abundance and concentrations of a cyanobacterial toxin (microcystin). Thus, half of the mesocosms were high‐nutrient and half were low‐nutrient. We then stocked half of the mesocosms with a mixture of six genetically‐distinct D. pulicaria genotypes (three genotypes from oligotrophic lakes and three from eutrophic lakes) leaving half of the mesocosms Daphnia‐free to assess grazing effects, using a fully factorial design.

When compared to the low nutrient treatment, high nutrient mesocosms had nearly five‐fold higher chlorophyll a concentrations, eight‐fold higher cyanobacterial dry biomass, and three‐fold higher microcystin levels at the start of the experiment. In contrast, low nutrient mesocosms had phytoplankton concentrations typical of mesotrophic lakes.

Fertilisation strongly affected Daphnia genetic diversity in the mesocosms. Final Daphnia genotype diversity in the mesocosms with low‐cyanobacteria (richness = 5.83, Shannon–Weiner index = 1.55, evenness = 0.88) was similar to the initial stocked diversity (richness = 5.50, Shannon–Weiner index = 1.48, evenness = 0.87). In contrast, final diversity in fertilised mesocosms with high cyanobacteria was greatly reduced (richness = 2, Shannon–Weiner index = 0.17), with one Daphnia genotype that originated from the most‐eutrophic lake being highly dominant (evenness = 0.25). Thus, eutrophication mediated strong clonal selection of a cyanobacteria‐tolerant Daphnia genotype over just 10 weeks.

By the end of the experiment, Daphnia significantly reduced phytoplankton biomass in the high‐nutrient, but not in the low‐nutrient treatment. This difference in effect size was largely driven by the five‐fold higher initial phytoplankton biomass in the high‐nutrient treatment. Thus, the ability of Daphnia to reduce phytoplankton biomass in eutrophic lakes may be driven more so by the abundance of planktivorous fishes, as opposed to the prevalence of cyanobacteria and their associated toxins.
Taxonomic variation in levels of endemism: a case study of Italian tenebrionid beetles
Authors: Fattorini Simone , Mantoni Cristina , Audisio Paolo , Biondi Maurizio
Published: April 2019

Levels of endemism are usually expressed as percentage of endemics among all species recorded in a given area. Endemism levels also vary among taxa, yet inter‐taxon variation in endemism levels has received much less attention.

We used the Italian tenebrionids to investigate how endemism levels vary among different but related lineages. We evaluated endemism variations among taxonomic levels both as a percentage of endemics to the number of species included in a given taxon (i.e. the tendency of a taxon to produce endemics) and as a percentage to the total number of species (i.e. the importance of that taxon to the overall endemic component). We also considered the residuals of regression lines of endemics against non‐endemics. We tested the influence of phylogenetic position, lifestyle, and body size on the percentage of endemics within genera.

Use of percentages and residuals gave similar outcomes. Pimeliinae were the subfamily with the highest level of endemism. Erodiini, Pimeliini, Tentyriini, Asidini, Opatrini, and Pedinini were among the tribes with the highest endemism levels. Asida, Pimelia, Tentyria, and Opatrum were the genera with the highest levels of endemism.

Phylogenetic position and body size affected significantly endemism levels, with genera including larger species being also those with higher endemism, whereas lifestyle was not significant. This suggests that endemism in the Italian tenebrionid beetles is phylogenetically constrained and that lines including larger species (which are possibly less subject to passive dispersal) tend to be richer in endemics, independently from their lifestyle.
Affective and effective: Military job performance as a function of work‐related emotional intelligence
Authors: Krishnakumar Sukumarakurup , Perera Buddhika , Persich Michelle R. , Robinson Michael D.
Published: April 2019

The military is a highly stressful career that requires one to work closely with others. These features of the military render it plausible that skills related to emotional perception and management—or emotional intelligence—would tend to benefit performance within this setting. Hypotheses of this type were examined in a panel study that presented 152 active duty military personnel with a new scenario‐based measure that specifically focused on emotional occurrences within the workplace. As hypothesized, work‐related emotional intelligence (W‐EI) positively predicted task performance, discipline, organizational citizenship, and employees with higher W‐EI levels received a greater number of performance commendations. Additionally, these relationships tended to remain significant in discriminant multiple regressions. Altogether, the results provide important evidence for the benefits of W‐EI within an occupational context that requires a high degree of coordination as well as stress management.
Selective culture of Escherichia coli to prevent infective complications of transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy: Clinical efficacy and analysis of characteristics of quinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Hiyama Yoshiki , Takahashi Satoshi , Uehara Teruhisa , Ichihara Koji , Hashimoto Jiro , Matsukawa Masanori , Taguchi Keisuke , Kunishima Yasuharu , Hotta Hiroshi , Yanase Masahiro , Itoh Naoki , Hirose Takaoki , Takeyama Koh , Tachiki Hitoshi , Masumori Naoya
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To evaluate a regimen of targeted prophylaxis using rectal swab culture in patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy, and to investigate the characteristics of isolated fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli.

Methods

A prospective study was carried out from June 2013 through December 2014. Rectal swabs were cultured on agar plates containing either 2 μg/mL levofloxacin or 1 μg/mL sitafloxacin before transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy. Patients with susceptible organisms received levofloxacin or sitafloxacin, whereas those with resistant organisms received directed antimicrobial prophylaxis according to the results of the antimicrobial susceptibility test. Patients with infectious complications after prostate biopsy were identified, and characteristics of patients carrying fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli were analyzed.

Results

A total of 397 men underwent transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy. Of these patients, 74 (18.6%) had fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli. All fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli were susceptible to amikacin and meropenem. The risk factor for possible fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli was age of ≥73 years. Three (0.7%) patients who received appropriate antimicrobial prophylaxis had high‐grade fever after the prostate biopsy. However, the pathogens were not fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli.

Conclusions

Targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy can be associated with reducing severe infectious complications caused by fluoroquinolone‐resistant Escherichia coli.
Antimicrobial stewardship opportunities among inpatients with diabetic foot infections: microbiology results from a tertiary hospital multidisciplinary unit
Authors: Hand Robert , Manning Laurens , Ritter Jens C. , Norman Paul , Lamb Lydia , Makepeace Ashley , Sankhesara Dipen , Hamilton Emma , Ingram Paul
Published: April 2019

Among 125 inpatients with diabetic foot infections managed by a multidisciplinary foot ulcer unit, knowledge of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonisation status assisted decision‐making to prescribe appropriately or with‐hold empiric anti‐methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus therapy. Despite adherence to national guidelines, apparent overuse of anti‐pseudomonal therapy was frequent, providing potential antimicrobial stewardship opportunities.
Negative pressure wound therapy as a definitive treatment for upper extremity wound defects: A systematic review
Authors: Shine Julien , Efanov Johnny I. , Paek Laurence , Coeugniet Édouard , Danino Michel A. , Izadpanah Ali
Published: April 2019

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) represents one of the many solutions for complex wounds of the upper extremity. The goal of this study was to investigate the most common indications for definitive treatment of wound defects in the upper extremity with NPWT and to report revision surgery outcomes after its use. A systematic review of the literature was performed. The following keywords and their combinations were used: “upper extremity,” “arm,” “forearm,” “wrist,” “hand,” “finger” AND “negative‐pressure wound therapy,” “VAC therapy,” “vacuum assisted closure.” A total of 45 articles were included, regrouping 404 cases of NPWT in the upper extremity. The forearm was involved in 53% of cases, followed by hand (36%), fingers (10%), and arm (1%). Seventeen different indications were cited, the most common of which were radial forearm flap reconstruction (23%), burn wounds (18%), and compartment syndromes (17%). Of the cases, 90% did not require any subsequent surgical procedure, as opposed to 6% considered partial failures requiring minor revisions and 4% total failures requiring major revisions. Closure of radial forearm flap donor site required the most revision procedures when treated with NPWT. NPWT can be used for several indications pertaining to the reconstruction of the upper extremity. Positive outcomes as a definitive treatment are demonstrated in this systematic review, which reaffirms NPWT as a potent tool for reconstructive endeavours.
Resveratrol inhibits lipid accumulation in the intestine of atherosclerotic mice and macrophages
Authors: Ye Guozhu , Chen Guoyou , Gao Han , Lin Yi , Liao Xu , Zhang Han , Liu Xinyu , Chi Yulang , Huang Qiansheng , Zhu Huimin , Fan Yuhua , Dong Sijun
Published: April 2019

Disordered intestinal metabolism is highly correlated with atherosclerotic diseases. Resveratrol protects against atherosclerotic diseases. Accordingly, this study aims to discover novel intestinal proatherosclerotic metabolites and potential therapeutic targets related to the anti‐atherosclerotic effects of resveratrol. An untargeted metabolomics approach was employed to discover novel intestinal metabolic disturbances during atherosclerosis and resveratrol intervention. We found that multiple intestinal metabolic pathways were significantly disturbed during atherosclerosis and responsive to resveratrol intervention. Notably, resveratrol abolished intestinal fatty acid and monoglyceride accumulation in atherosclerotic mice. Meanwhile, oleate accumulation was one of the most prominent alterations in intestinal metabolism. Moreover, resveratrol attenuated oleate‐triggered accumulation of total cholesterol, esterified cholesterol and neutral lipids in mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages by activating ABC transporter A1/G1‐mediated cholesterol efflux through PPAR (peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor) α/γ activation. Furthermore, we confirmed that PPARα and PPARγ activation by WY14643 and pioglitazone, respectively, alleviated oleate‐induced accumulation of total cholesterol, esterified cholesterol and neutral lipids by accelerating ABC transporter A1/G1‐mediated cholesterol efflux. This study provides the first evidence that resveratrol abolishes intestinal fatty acid and monoglyceride accumulation in atherosclerotic mice, and that resveratrol suppresses oleate‐induced accumulation of total cholesterol, esterified cholesterol and neutral lipids in macrophages by activating PPARα/γ signalling.
Pinjata ruminata gen. et sp. n.—A New Member of Centrohelid Family Yogsothothidae (Haptista: Centroplasthelida) from the Brackish River
Authors: Zlatogursky Vasily V. , Gerasimova Elena A. , Drachko Daria , Klimov Vladimir I. , Shɨshkin Yegor , Plotnikov Andrey O.
Published: April 2019

A new genus and species of centrohelid heliozoan Pinjata ruminata from the Tuzlukkol’ River (Orenburg Region of Russia) and Gorʼkoe Lake (Chelyabinsk Region of Russia) is studied with light‐ and electron microscopy. Pinjata ruminata has two types of plate scales, partially running up the sides of the axopodia. Inner plate scales (3.2–4.9 × 1.5–2.6 μm) are flat, ovate‐oblong and have a broad axial thickening and a thin electron‐dense border. Outer plate scales (4.2–6.7 × 1.5–3.0 μm) are concave, elongated, of irregular shape, often curved, and broadened towards one end. Roundish depressions are forming two rows on both sides of the narrow axial thickening. The cells are attached to the substratum. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the SSU rDNA robustly placed P. ruminata in the family Yogsothothidae. This position is confirmed with the presence of five panacanthocystid increase regions. The morphology of the new genus is in a good accordance with diagnosis of the family. The status of a genus “Heteroraphidiophrys” is discussed. Other potential findings of Pinjata from literature are analyzed. Pinjata represents the third lineage of centrohelids, characterized with the presence of only tangentially oriented plate scales. The halophilic nature of Yogsothothidae is suggested.
Solitary fibrous tumor arising from pelvic retroperitoneum: A report of two cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Yamada Kaori , Abiko Kaoru , Kido Aki , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Horie Akihito , Mandai Masaki
Published: April 2019

Solitary fibrous tumors (SFT) rarely arise in the pelvis. Here, we report two cases of SFT arising from the pelvic retroperitoneum. The first case involves a 64‐year‐old woman diagnosed with a 5‐cm pelvic mass. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a solid and cystic mass with marked enhancement, but limited water restriction. During surgery, intraligamental tumor arising near the round ligament was resected. Pathologically, the tumor comprised dilated vessels and spindle‐shaped cells positive for STAT6 and CD34. The second case involves a 53‐year‐old woman diagnosed with a 4.5‐cm pelvic mass through computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a solid mass with multiple cysts with strong enhancement and slight water restriction. During surgery, the tumor was found in the retroperitoneum. Pathologically, spindle‐shaped tumor cells positive for STAT6 and CD34 had proliferated around the prominent hyalinized vessels. Although rare in the pelvis, SFT should be suspected when a mass with strong enhancement is found.
The Mossman–Pacey Paradox
Authors: Horwitz H. , Dalhoff K. P. , Andersen J. T.
Published: April 2019

Click here to view the view the Letter by Dr. Mossman and Dr. Pacey
Precision medicine for diabetes management and primary cardiovascular prevention
Authors: Leggio M. , Tiberti C. , Armeni M. , Limongelli G. , Mazza A.
Published: April 2019

Click here to view the Review by Dr. Prasad & Dr. Groop
A sunlit skin
Authors: Cozzi Giorgio , Berti Irene , Barbi Egidio , Calligaris Lorenzo
Published: April 2019

See Answer
Defining short and long sleep duration for future paediatric research: A systematic literature review
Authors: Sawyer Emily , Heussler Helen , Gunnarsson Ronny
Published: April 2019

Short and long sleep patterns in children have been associated with a range of poor health outcomes. However, there is no consensus regarding the definitions of these abnormal sleep parameters in childhood for use in paediatric research. Given that there is a clear lack of definitions for sleep duration throughout paediatric sleep literature, this review aimed to establish recommendations for standard cut‐offs of short and long sleep for children aged 1–16 years to enable homogeneity in future studies of paediatric sleep duration. Four databases were systematically searched to identify prospective studies that defined short or long sleep patterns in children. Included papers (38) were assessed for methodological quality, and their definitions were extracted to examine the current applied cut‐offs in the literature for short or long sleep duration. The definitions were analysed in a regression model to summarize applied cut‐offs from subjective data into cut‐offs for short and long sleep duration. These models were fitted to reference values of three commonly cited paediatric population studies to establish new definitions of sleep duration for future use in research. Across the age groups there was little consensus in applied cut‐offs for short and long sleep duration. This study found the best compromise for short sleep was defined as the 2.5th centile (hours = 0.25*age + 11) and long sleep as the 97.5th centile (hours = 0.017*age2 − 0.68*age + 16) of sleep duration in children. Recommendations for the hourly cut‐offs of short and long sleep duration based on these percentiles were described.
Empirical Likelihood for a Long Range Dependent Process Subordinated to a Gaussian Process
Authors: Lahiri Soumendra N. , Das Ujjwal , Nordman Daniel J.
Published: April 2019

This article develops empirical likelihood methodology for a class of long range dependent processes driven by a stationary Gaussian process. We consider population parameters that are defined by estimating equations in the time domain. It is shown that the standard block empirical likelihood (BEL) method, with a suitable scaling, has a non‐standard limit distribution based on a multiple Wiener–Itô integral. Unlike the short memory time series case, the scaling constant involves unknown population quantities that may be difficult to estimate. Alternative versions of the empirical likelihood method, involving the expansive BEL (EBEL) methods are considered. It is shown that the EBEL renditions do not require an explicit scaling and, therefore, remove this undesirable feature of the standard BEL. However, the limit law involves the long memory parameter, which may be estimated from the data. Results from a moderately large simulation study on finite sample properties of tests and confidence intervals based on different empirical likelihood methods are also reported.
Regional alterations in human choroidal thickness in response to short‐term monocular hemifield myopic defocus
Authors: Hoseini‐Yazdi Hosein , Vincent Stephen J , Collins Michael J , Read Scott A
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To examine the regional changes in human choroidal thickness following short‐term exposure to hemifield myopic defocus using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

The central 26˚ visual field of the left eye of 25 healthy young adults (mean age 26 ± 5 years) was exposed to 60 min of clear vision (control session), +3 D full‐field, +3 D superior retinal and +3 D inferior retinal myopic defocus, with the right eye occluded. Choroidal thickness across the central 5 mm (17°) macular region was examined before and after 60 min of defocus using a high‐resolution, foveal centred vertical OCT line scan, with optical defocus simultaneously imposed using a Badal optometer and cold mirror system mounted on a Spectralis OCT device.

Results

Averaged across the central 5 mm macular area, choroidal thickness decreased by −4 ± 7 μm during the control session (p = 0.01), most likely due to the unique stimulus conditions of this study. The mean macular choroidal thickness increased during full‐field (+2 ± 8 μm), inferior retinal (+3 ± 7 μm) and superior retinal myopic defocus (+5 ± 9 μm), representing a significant thickening of the choroid compared to the control session (all p < 0.05). The defocus induced changes in macular choroidal thickness differed between the superior and inferior hemiretinal regions (F2.26, 54.27 = 29.75, p < 0.001). When only the superior retina was exposed to myopic defocus, the choroid thickened in the superior region (+7 ± 8 μm, p < 0.001), but did not change significantly in the inferior region (+3 ± 9 μm, p = 0.12). When only the inferior retina was exposed to myopic defocus, the choroid thickened inferiorly (+4 ± 8 μm, p = 0.005), with no significant change observed in the superior region (+1 ± 8 μm, p = 0.46).

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence supporting a local regional choroidal response to myopic defocus in the human eye, with hemifield myopic defocus leading to significant thickening of the choroid localised to the retinal region exposed to defocus. The novel finding of a localised response of the human choroid to hemifield myopic defocus, particularly in the superior hemiretina, may have important implications in optimising the optical design of myopia control interventions.
Functional limitations recognised by adults with amblyopia and strabismus in daily life: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Kumaran Sheela E , Khadka Jyoti , Baker Rod , Pesudovs Konrad
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Patients’ perceptions about the functional impact of amblyopia and strabismus in daily life have not been explored extensively. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the lived experiences of adults with these conditions and understand the functional limitations they face in their day‐to‐day life.

Methods

A qualitative study design was adopted. Participants over 18 years of age, with a primary diagnosis of amblyopia (with or without strabismus) were recruited from the community and various eye care practices in South Australia and Victoria, Australia. Participants took part in either focus group discussions or individual interviews and described the functional limitations they experienced in their daily life due to their eye condition. These sessions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded inductively, and analysed iteratively to form emergent themes.

Results

Thirty‐seven adult participants took part in the study: 23 (62%) had strabismic amblyopia; 5 (14%) anisometropic amblyopia;, 7 (19%) combined‐mechanism amblyopia; and 2 (5%) deprivational amblyopia. Their median age was 54 years (range: 21–82 years) and 19 (51%) were female. Participants reported several challenges in performing everyday tasks such as driving (e.g. judging distances, changing lanes), reading (e.g. fine print, reading for prolonged time) and sports (e.g. catching a ball). They also articulated trouble in navigating safely (e.g. using stairs, bumping into objects), performing work‐tasks (e.g. taking longer than peers to complete tasks) and other routine tasks (e.g. chopping vegetables with care).

Conclusions

Several functional limitations were encountered by adults living with amblyopia and strabismus. Participants recognised these limitations in their normal day‐to‐day life and related the challenges they faced to symptoms associated with their eye condition. By presenting rich in‐depth qualitative data, the paper demonstrates qualitative evidence of the functional impacts associated with amblyopia and strabismus.
Thirty day mortality after neonatal laparotomy in a Chinese tertiary hospital
Authors: Song Linlin , Gao Yangxu
Published: April 2019

Background

No data are available on the prevalence of mortality in neonates after major surgery such as laparotomy in China.

Methods

In a tertiary general hospital, 142 newborns who underwent laparotomy for a variety of surgical conditions in the past 6 years were included in this study in Beijing, China. Pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative variables potentially predictive of postoperative 30 day mortality were collected and compared between the surviving and deceased newborns.

Results

Death ≤30 days after laparotomy occurred in 19 of 142 newborns (13.4%) during the study period. Newborns diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) had the worst outcome (OR, 11.4). Significantly more neonates in the 30 day death group were intubated preoperatively (52.6%) compared with the survival group (19.5%; OR, 10.0). Base excess ≤−10 mmol/L immediately after laparotomy was associated with negative prognosis in the early postoperative period (OR, 11.2).

Conclusion

The mortality rate of newborns ≤30 days after laparotomy was 13.4% in a Chinese tertiary general hospital in the past 6 years. The factors associated with early death were NEC, preoperative intubation with mechanical ventilation, and postoperative immediate base excess ≤−10 mmol/L.
Molecular functional analysis of auxin/indole‐3‐acetic acid proteins (Aux/IAAs) in plant disease resistance in cassava
Authors: Fan Shuhong , Chang Yanli , Liu Guoyin , Shang Sang , Tian Libo , Shi Haitao
Published: April 2019

Auxin/indole‐3‐acetic acid proteins (Aux/IAAs) play important roles in auxin signaling pathways, with extensive involvement in plant development and plant response to abiotic and biotic stresses. Manihot esculenta (Cassava) is one of the most important biomass energy crops in tropical regions; however, the information about Aux/IAA proteins remain limited in cassava. In this study, 37 MeAux/IAA gene family members were identified in cassava and a phylogenetic analysis was performed. The transcript levels of MeAux/IAAs were commonly regulated by the pathogen Xanthomonas axonopodis pv manihotis (Xam), and some of them were specifically localized to the nucleus. Moreover, the overexpression of MeAux/IAAs confers an improved disease resistance against Xam in Nicotiana benthamiana, while MeAux/IAAs‐silenced plants show disease sensitivity against Xam in cassava, as evidenced by the leaf phenotype and leaf bacterial population. Consistent with the disease resistance, MeAux/IAAs regulated the transcript levels of PATHOGENESIS‐RELATED GENES (MePRs), reactive oxygen species accumulation and callose development in the plants' defense response. Taken together, gene profile and functional analysis identified several MeAux/IAAs as novel members in plant disease resistance, providing important information for further utilization of MeAux/IAAs.
Estimating the demand for reserve assets across diverse groups of countries
Authors: Bhattacharya Rina , Mann Katja , Nkusu Mwanza
Published: April 2019

This paper takes a fresh look at the determinants of the holding of reserves with the aim of highlighting similarities and differences among emerging markets (EMs), advanced economies (AEs), and low‐income countries (LICs). We apply two panel estimation techniques: fixed effects (FE) and common correlated effects pooled mean group (CCEPMG). FE regression results suggest that precautionary savings’ motives, both current account‐ and capital account‐related, are generally the most important determinants of reserves’ holding for all country groups. Nonetheless, there is considerable heterogeneity across country groups and over time. The intertemporal motive, a novelty of this paper, has gained importance everywhere. The CCEPMG results confirm the importance of precautionary motives and suggest that current account motives matter only for EMs and LICs and capital account motives matter for all groups while being more relevant for EMs. The CCEPMG results also point to the importance of taking into account the heterogeneous impact of unobserved common factors that affect coefficient estimates and the dynamic process through which reserves adjust to changes.
A detrital apatite fission‐track study of the CIROS‐2 sedimentary record: Tracing ice pathways in the Ross Sea area over the last 5 Ma
Authors: Li Xia , Zattin Massimiliano , Olivetti Valerio
Published: April 2019

The Ross Sea is a crucial area to investigate pathways of ice during the Cenozoic as it records the evolution of both the East and West Antarctic Ice Sheets. This work is based on detrital apatite fission track (AFT) data extracted from the sedimentary record of well CIROS‐2, which spans the last 5 Ma. The AFT data show a large range of ages, and most of the grains fit well with two main components that fall between 24 and 42 Ma and between 43 and 70 Ma, whereas the other components are not regularly distributed through the well, thus indicating a mixture of provenance from different areas along the Transantarctic Mountains. As a whole, our work suggests glacial expansion over the McMurdo Sound during the Pliocene, and ice periodically invading and retreating in Pleistocene.
In vitro assessment of the long‐term stability of the inhibitory effects of canine and feline plasma on MMP 2 and 9
Authors: Lively Melissa J. , Westermeyer Hans D.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of increasing storage time on the inhibitory effects of canine and feline plasma on matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 and 9 in vitro.

Methods

Matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 activity in the presence of canine plasma stored for 57, 155, 222, 316, 367, and 438 days, and feline plasma stored for 17, 198, 565, and 954 days was assayed using a commercially available colorimetric assay kit.

Results

For canine plasma, the MMP 2 activity for older samples was not significantly different than the 57‐day sample (P = 0.2025‐0.9033). Two canine samples had significantly lower MMP 9 activity than the 57‐day sample (367 days: P = 0.0099, 438 days: P = 0.0348, others P = 0.0778‐0.9928). For feline plasma, storage time did not significantly affect inhibition of MMP 2 and MMP 9 activity (ANOVA, P = 0.2688 and P = 0.2404, respectively).

Conclusions

Increasing storage time does not significantly decrease the inhibiting activity of plasma on MMP 2 and 9 for up to 14 months in dogs and 31 months in cats.
“Wise Use” in Watarase-yusuichi Creating New Value through the Integration of Stakeholders
Authors: Sugiura Mikiko
Published: April 2019

Watarease-yusuichi, a man-made retarding basin, which has functioned as a flood control for about 100 years, entered a new phase in 2012 as a registered site under the Ramsar Convention. Through diversification of wetland use, despite the complexity of the root of the Convention’s “wise use,” Watarase-yusuichi represents a unique perspective on sustainable development so that wetlands can continue creating new value for human society. The emerging ecological function as the habitat for endangered fauna and flora exemplifies not only the universal paradigm shift in human involvement in the wetland’s use, but also the importance of the integration of stakeholders regarding the issues of wetland management as IRBM (the Integrated River Basin Management), which gives us more holistic perspective on a participatory and comprehensive approach to planning and management. Regarding the integration of stakeholders, despite the significant differences in original ideas on wetland management, it should be noted that five major types of stakeholders, including the local and scholarly communities, collaborated to device a future plan for Watarase-yusuichi through lengthy discussions. The several challenges remain in terms of “wise use” even after the successful designation under the Ramsar Convention. One of the difficulties is how to share a common goal or incentive among groups with different interests. Taking the advantage of wetland’s characteristics distinguished from other water-related facilities such as a multi-purpose dam reservoir, regular and innovative action should be taken, such as information dispatch from individuals.
Springtail-Inspired Triangular Laser-Induced Surface Textures on Metals Using MHz Ultrashort Pulses
Authors: Romano Jean-Michel , Helbig Ralf , Fraggelakis Fotis , Garcia-Giron Antonio , Werner Carsten , Kling Rainer , Dimov Stefan
Published: April 2019

Considering the attractive surface functionalities of springtails (Collembola), an attempt at mimicking their cuticular topography on metals is proposed. An efficient single-step manufacturing process has been considered, involving laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) generated by near-infrared femtosecond laser pulses. By investigating the influence of number of pulses and pulse fluence, extraordinarily uniform triangular structures were fabricated on stainless steel and titanium alloy surfaces, resembling the primary comb-like surface structure of springtails. The laser-textured metallic surfaces exhibited hydrophobic properties and light scattering effects that were considered in this research as a potential in-line process monitoring solution. The possibilities to increase the processing throughput by employing high repetition rates in the MHz-range are also investigated.
Can ultrasonography be useful in the diagnosis of urethral disorders of female-to-male transsexuals?
Authors: Krukowski Jakub , Kałużny Adam , Matuszewski Marcin
Published: April 2019

Sonourethrography (SUG) is one of the basic imaging tools in the diagnosis of male anterior urethral strictures. So far, no one has described the use of this examination in transgender patients after “female-to-male” operation. Based on the presented case, we describe ultrasonographical features of the construction of a neophallus and offer information allowing a more accurate evaluation of urethral disorders in this group of patients
The relevance of ultrasound examination of the foot and ankle in patients with rheumatoid arthritis – a review of the literature
Authors: Șerban Oana , Bădărînză Maria , Fodor Daniela
Published: April 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease characterized by symmetrical involvement of the joints and tendons, especially of the hands and wrists, but also of the feet and ankles from the very beginning of the disease. For the patient, the foot and ankle involvement is equally important as the other joints, since it affects the functionality of the feet and the quality of life of the patients. It is already known that subclinical involvement of the ankles and feet occurs even in patients that are considered in clinical remission, thus they do not need for changes of therapy, but still might benefit from it. In spite of this, theclinicians do not give enough care to the ankle and foot in RA patients, especially if asymptomatic, resulting future deformities, joint damage and feet disability. In order to show the importance of the feet and ankles in RA patients and to demonstrate the indispensable role of ultrasonography (US) for that purpose, at the same time displaying the US abnormalities that should draw our attention, we performed this review of the literature.
Plasma jet based in situ reduction of copper oxide in direct write printing
Authors: Dey Avishek , Lopez Arlene , Filipič Gregor , Jayan Aditya , Nordlund Dennis , Koehne Jessica , Krishnamurthy Satheesh , Gandhiraman Ram P. , Meyyappan M.
Published: April 2019

Printing of nanostructured films with tailored oxidation state and electronic structure can have far reaching applications in several areas including printable electronics, optoelectronics, solar cells, catalytic conversion, and others. Widely used inkjet/aerosol/screen printing techniques require pre- and postprocessing for enhanced adhesion and tailoring of the chemical state of the thin film. Herein, we demonstrate atmospheric pressure plasma jet printing with unique capability to print and tune in situ the electronic properties and surface morphology of nanomaterials. Plasma printing of copper thin films with tailored oxidation state from an inexpensive copper oxide precursor is demonstrated and characterized using x-ray absorption spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and electrical measurements.
Exploring the Efficacy of a Safe Cryotherapy Alternative: Physiological Temperature Changes From Cold-Water Immersion Versus Prolonged Cooling of Phase-Change Material
Authors: Kwiecien Susan Y. , McHugh Malachy P. , Goodall Stuart , Hicks Kirsty M. , Hunter Angus M. , Howatson Glyn
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness between cold-water immersion (CWI) and phase-change-material (PCM) cooling on intramuscular, core, and skin-temperature and cardiovascular responses. Methods: In a randomized, crossover design, 11 men completed 15 min of 15°C CWI to the umbilicus and 2-h recovery or 3 h of 15°C PCM covering the quadriceps and 1 h of recovery, separated by 24 h. Vastus lateralis intramuscular temperature at 1 and 3 cm, core and skin temperature, heart-rate variability, and thermal comfort were recorded at baseline and 15-min intervals throughout treatment and recovery. Results: Intramuscular temperature decreased (P < .001) during and after both treatments. A faster initial effect was observed from 15 min of CWI (Δ: 4.3°C [1.7°C] 1 cm; 5.5°C [2.1°C] 3 cm; P = .01). However, over time (2 h 15 min), greater effects were observed from prolonged PCM treatment (Δ: 4.2°C [1.9°C] 1 cm; 2.2°C [2.2°C] 3 cm; treatment × time, P = .0001). During the first hour of recovery from both treatments, intramuscular temperature was higher from CWI at 1 cm (P = .013) but not 3 cm. Core temperature deceased 0.25° (0.32°) from CWI (P = .001) and 0.28°C (0.27°C) from PCM (P = .0001), whereas heart-rate variability increased during both treatments (P = .001), with no differences between treatments. Conclusions: The magnitude of temperature reduction from CWI was comparable with PCM, but intramuscular temperature was decreased for longer during PCM. PCM cooling packs offer an alternative for delivering prolonged cooling whenever application of CWI is impractical while also exerting a central effect on core temperature and heart rate.
Acute Responses to On-Court Repeated-Sprint Training Performed With Blood Flow Restriction Versus Systemic Hypoxia in Elite Badminton Athletes
Authors: Valenzuela Pedro L. , Sánchez-Martínez Guillermo , Torrontegi Elaia , Vázquez-Carrión Javier , González Manuela , Montalvo Zigor , Millet Grégoire P.
Published: April 2019

Purpose: Repeated-sprint training (RS) is commonly conducted in normoxia, but its completion with localized (blood-flow restriction [BFR]) or systemic hypoxia has been proven effective for performance enhancement. Yet, few studies have applied these types of RS sessions in racket sports. The authors aimed to determine the acute responses to these types of training in elite badminton players. Methods: Eight male elite badminton players participated in this randomized crossover study. They performed 3 on-court RS sessions, each consisting of 3 sets of 10 repetitions of 10-s badminton-specific movements in normoxia (RSN), systemic normobaric hypoxia (RSH, FiO2 = 14%), or with BFR (RS-BFR, 40% arterial occlusion pressure). Performance, perceptual (ie, rating of perceived exertion), and physiological (ie, pulse saturation, muscle oxygenation, blood lactate, creatine kinase, heart-rate variability) responses were measured after each set and up to 48 h postsession. Results: RS-BFR induced a greater performance impairment (lower distance and accelerations) and a higher local perceived exertion in the legs than RSN and RSH (P < .05), whereas greater overall fatigue was reported with RSH (P < .05). RSH induced a lower saturation (P < .001), but no differences were observed in muscle oxygenation between conditions. No differences in creatine kinase or heart-rate variability were observed at any time point (from baseline up to 48 h after the session). Conclusions: RS-BFR—and, to a lower extent, RSH—resulted in impaired performance and a higher perceived strain than RSN. However, these 2 hypoxic methods do not seem to induce a long-lasting (post 24–48 h) physiological stress in elite badminton players.
Is Swimmers’ Performance Influenced by Wetsuit Use?
Authors: Gay Ana , López-Contreras Gracia , Fernandes Ricardo J. , Arellano Raúl
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To observe changes in performance, physiological, and general kinematic variables induced by the use of wetsuits vs swimsuits in both swimming-pool and swimming-flume conditions. Methods: In a randomized and counterbalanced order, 33 swimmers (26.46 [11.72] y old) performed 2 × 400-m maximal front crawl in a 25-m swimming pool (with wetsuit and swimsuit), and their mean velocities were used later in 2 swimming-flume trials with both suits. Velocity, blood lactate concentration, heart rate (HR), Borg scale (rating of perceived exertion), stroke rate, stroke length (SL), stroke index, and propelling efficiency were evaluated. Results: The 400-m performance in the swimming pool was 0.07 m·s−1 faster when using the wetsuit than when using the swimsuit, evidencing a reduction of ∼6% in time elapsed (P < .001). Maximal HR, maximal blood lactate concentration, rating of perceived exertion, stroke rate, and propelling efficiency were similar when using both swimsuits, but SL and stroke index presented higher values with the wetsuit in both the swimming pool and the swimming flume. Comparing swimming conditions, maximal HR and maximal blood lactate concentration were lower, and SL, stroke index, and propelling efficiency were higher when swimming in the flume than when swimming in the pool with both suits. Conclusions: The 6% velocity improvement was the result of an increase of 4% in SL. Swimmers reduced stroke rate and increased SL to benefit from the hydrodynamic reduction of the wetsuit and increase their swimming efficiency. Wetsuits might be utilized during training seasons to improve adaptations while swimming.
Improved Sprint Performance With Inhaled Long-Acting β2-Agonists Combined With Resistance Exercise
Authors: Merlini Michele , Whyte Greg , Marcora Sam , Loosemore Mike , Chester Neil , Dickinson John
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To investigate the impact of twice-daily inhalation of 100 µg of salmeterol (SAL) or 12 µg of formoterol (FOR) in addition to a strength- and power-training program over a 5-wk period on a 30-m sprint, strength, power, mood, stress, and skinfold thickness. Methods: In a randomized, single-blind study, 23 male and 15 female nonasthmatic, recreationally active individuals were recruited (mean [SD] age 26.3 [5.4] y, weight 76.2 [11.5] kg, height 176.9 [8.5] cm). Participants completed 3 standardized whole-body strength- and power-training sessions per week for 5 wk during which they were assigned to an SAL, FOR, or placebo group. Participants used their inhaler twice per day as instructed and completed assessments of sprint, strength, and power at baseline and 1 wk after cessation of the training program. The assessments included a 30-m sprint, vertical jump, 1-repetition-maximum (1RM) bench press, 1RM leg press, peak torque flexion and extension, anthropometric evaluation, and Rest-Q questionnaires. Results: After 5 wk of strength and power training, 30-m sprint time reduced in the FOR (0.29 [0.11] s, P = .049) and SAL (0.35 [0.05] s, P = .040) groups compared with placebo (+0.01 [0.11] s). No significant change was found in other assessments of strength, mood, or skinfold thickness. Conclusions: When strength and power training are combined with the inhalation of FOR or SAL over a 5-wk period, moderately trained individuals experience an improvement in 30-m sprint performance.
Applying the Critical Power Model to a Full-Body Resistance-Training Movement
Authors: Dinyer Taylor K. , Byrd M. Travis , Vesotsky Ashley N. , Succi Pasquale J. , Bergstrom Haley C.
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To determine if the mathematical model used to derive critical power could be used to identify the critical resistance (CR) for the deadlift; compare predicted and actual repetitions to failure at 50%, 60%, 70%, and 80% 1-repetition maximum (1RM); and compare the CR with the estimated sustainable resistance for 30 repetitions (ESR30). Methods: Twelve subjects completed 1RM testing for the deadlift followed by 4 visits to determine the number of repetitions to failure at 50%, 60%, 70%, and 80% 1RM. The CR was calculated as the slope of the line of the total work completed (repetitions × weight [in kilograms] × distance [in meters]) vs the total distance (in meters) the barbell traveled. The actual and predicted repetitions to failure were determined from the CR model and compared using paired-samples t tests and simple linear regression. The ESR30 was determined from the power-curve analysis and compared with the CR using paired-samples t tests and simple linear regression. Results: The weight and repetitions completed at CR were 56 (11) kg and 49 (14) repetitions. The actual repetitions to failure were less than predicted at 50% 1RM (P < .001) and 80% 1RM (P < .001) and greater at 60% 1RM (P = .004), but there was no difference at 70% 1RM (P = .084). The ESR30 (75 [14] kg) was greater (P < .001) than the CR. Conclusions: The total work-vs-distance relationship can be used to identify the CR for the deadlift, which reflected a sustainable resistance that may be useful in the design of resistance-based exercise programs.
Luring T cells into a gray area
Authors: Alsufyani Faisal , Pillai Shiv
Published: April 2019

T cells that target β-synuclein induce damage to the gray matter of the brain in multiple sclerosis and contribute to neurodegeneration.
Pulmonary Pharmacokinetics of Oseltamivir Carboxylate in Rats after Nebulization or Intravenous Administration of Its Prodrug, Oseltamivir Phosphate
Authors: Carrez Romain , Brillault Julien , Grégoire Nicolas , Lamarche Isabelle , Laroche Julian , Couet William , Marchand Sandrine
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of oseltamivir phosphate, a prodrug, and its active moiety in plasma and lung after its nebulization and intravenous administration in rats. Only 2% of prodrug was converted into active moiety presystematically, attesting to a low advantage of oseltamivir phosphate nebulization, suggesting that oseltamivir phosphate nebulization is not a good option to obtain a high exposure of the active moiety at the infection site within lung.
Gut Microbiota and Phytoestrogen-Associated Infertility in Southern White Rhinoceros
Authors: Williams Candace L. , Ybarra Alexis R. , Meredith Ashley N. , Durrant Barbara S. , Tubbs Christopher W.
Published: April 2019

Southern white rhinoceros (SWR) poaching has reached record levels, and captive infertility has rendered SWR assurance populations no longer self-sustaining. Previous work has identified dietary phytoestrogens as a likely cause of this problem. Here, we investigate the role of gut microbiota in this phenomenon by comparing two rhinoceros species to provide the first characterizations of gut microbiomes for any rhinoceros species. To our knowledge, our approach, combining parallel sequencing, mass spectrometry, and estrogen receptor activation assays, provides insight into the relationship between microbially mediated phytoestrogen metabolism and fertility that is novel for any vertebrate species. With this information, we plan to direct future work aimed at developing strategies to improve captive reproduction in the hope of alleviating their threat of extinction.
Two Health or Not Two Health? That Is the Question
Authors: Hanage William P.
Published: April 2019

How much drug-resistant infections in livestock contribute to disease in humans is controversial. While zoonoses are a prominent cause of emerging infections, and the profligate use of antibiotics as growth promoters is expected to lead to the spread of resistance, this resistance could remain concentrated in animal pathogens and only rarely spill over into humans.