bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In and out of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau: divergence time estimation and historical biogeography of the large arctic‐alpine genus Saxifraga L.
Authors: Ebersbach J. , Muellner‐Riehl A. N. , Michalak I. , Tkach N. , Hoffmann M. H. , Röser M. , Sun H. , Favre A.
Published: December 2016

Aim

Geologically dynamic areas often harbour remarkable levels of biodiversity. Among other factors, mountain building is assumed to be a precondition for species radiation, and yet, the potential role of immigration as a source of biodiversity prior to radiation is often neglected. Here, we studied the biogeographical history of the large genus Saxifraga to unravel the role played by the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP) for the diversification of this genus and to understand factors that have led to the establishment of high biodiversity in and around this region.

Location

QTP and surrounding mountain ranges and worldwide distribution range of Saxifraga.

Methods

Using a total of 420 taxa (321 ingroup taxa) comprising more than 60% of extant Saxifraga species, we studied the evolutionary history of Saxifraga by performing phylogenetic analyses (maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference on nuclear ITS and plastid trnL–trnF, matK sequences), divergence time estimation (using uncorrelated log‐normal clock models and four fossil constraints in beast) and ancestral range estimation (using BioGeoBEARS).

Results

Saxifraga originated in North America around 74 (64–83) Ma, dispersed to South America and northern Asia during its early diversification and colonized Europe and the QTP region by the Late Eocene. The QTP region was colonized several times independently, followed in some lineages by rapid radiations, temporally coinciding with recent uplifts of the Hengduan Mountains at the southeastern fringe of the QTP. Subsequently, several lineages dispersed out of Tibet.

Main conclusions

Immigration, recent rapid radiation and lineage persistence were all important processes for the establishment of a rich species stock of Saxifraga in the QTP region. Because floristic exchanges between the neighbouring areas and the QTP region were bi‐directional, the spatio‐temporal evolution of Saxifraga contrasts with the ‘out of QTP’ pattern, which has often been assumed for northern temperate plants.
BRD7 mediates hyperglycaemia‐induced myocardial apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum stress signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Xiao‐meng , Wang Ying‐cui , Liu Xiang‐juan , Wang Qi , Zhang Chun‐mei , Zhang Li‐ping , Liu Hui , Zhang Xin‐yu , Mao Yang , Ge Zhi‐ming
Published: December 2016

Bromodomain‐containing protein 7 (BRD7) is a tumour suppressor that is known to regulate many pathological processes including cell growth, apoptosis and cell cycle. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐induced apoptosis plays a key role in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the molecular mechanism of hyperglycaemia‐induced myocardial apoptosis is still unclear. We intended to determine the role of BRD7 in high glucose (HG)‐induced apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. In vivo, we established a type 1 diabetic rat model by injecting a high‐dose streptozotocin (STZ), and lentivirus‐mediated short hairpin RNA (shRNA) was used to inhibit BRD7 expression. Rats with DCM exhibited severe myocardial remodelling, fibrosis, left ventricular dysfunction and myocardial apoptosis. The expression of BRD7 was up‐regulated in the heart of diabetic rats, and inhibition of BRD7 had beneficial effects against diabetes‐induced heart damage. In vitro, H9c2 cardiomyoblasts was used to investigate the mechanism of BRD7 in HG‐induced apoptosis. Treating H9c2 cardiomyoblasts with HG elevated the level of BRD7 via activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and increased ER stress‐induced apoptosis by detecting spliced/active X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP‐1s) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). Furthermore, down‐regulation of BRD7 attenuated HG‐induced expression of CHOP via inhibiting nuclear translocation of XBP‐1s without affecting the total expression of XBP‐1s. In conclusion, inhibition of BRD7 appeared to protect against hyperglycaemia‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by inhibiting ER stress signalling pathway.
Migratory‐stage sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus stop responding to conspecific damage‐released alarm cues after 4 h of continuous exposure in laboratory conditions
Authors: Imre I. , Di Rocco R. T. , McClure H. , Johnson N. S. , Brown G. E.
Published: December 2016

This study investigated the length of avoidance response of migratory‐stage sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus exposed continuously to conspecific damage‐released alarm cues for varying lengths of time in laboratory stream channels. Ten replicate groups of P. marinus, separated by sex, were exposed to either deionized water control or to P. marinus extract for 0, 2 or 4 h continuously. Petromyzon marinus maintained their avoidance response to the conspecific damage‐released alarm cue after continuous exposure to the alarm cue for 0 and 2 h but not 4 h. Beyond being one of the first studies in regards to sensory–olfactory adaptation–acclimation of fishes to alarm cues of any kind, these results have important implications for use of conspecific alarm cues in P. marinus control. For example, continuous application of conspecific alarm cue during the day, when P. marinus are inactive and hiding, may result in sensory adaptation to the odour by nightfall when they migrate upstream.
Pharmacologic therapies for severe steroid refractory hospitalized ulcerative colitis: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Komaki Yuga , Komaki Fukiko , Micic Dejan , Yamada Akihiro , Suzuki Yasuo , Sakuraba Atsushi
Published: December 2016

Background and Aim

A limited option of therapies is available for hospitalized patients with severe steroid refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). Furthermore, there exists a paucity of direct comparisons between them. To provide a comparative evaluation of the efficacy and safety of pharmacologic therapies, we conducted a network meta‐analysis combined with a benefit–risk analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) performed in hospitalized patients with severe steroid refractory UC.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched through November 2015 for RCTs evaluating the efficacy of therapies for severe steroid refractory hospitalized UC. The outcomes were clinical response, colectomy free rate, and severe adverse events leading to discontinuation of therapy. The primary endpoints were the rank of therapies based on network meta‐analysis combined with benefit–risk analysis between clinical response and severe adverse events as well as colectomy free rate and severe adverse events.

Results

Eight RCTs of 421 patients were identified. Cyclosporine, infliximab, and tacrolimus as well as placebo were included in our analysis. Network meta‐analysis with benefit–risk analysis simultaneously assessing clinical response and severe adverse events demonstrated the rank order of efficacy as infliximab, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and placebo. Similar analysis for colectomy‐free rate and severe adverse events demonstrated the same rank order of efficacy. The differences among infliximab, cyclosporine, and tacrolimus were small in all analyses.

Conclusion

The results of the present comprehensive benefit–risk assessment using network meta‐analysis provide RCT‐based evidence on efficacy and safety of infliximab, cyclosporine, and tacrolimus for hospitalized patients with severe steroid refractory UC.
Children's Experiences of Time When a Parent Travels for Work
Authors: Zvonkovic Anisa M. , Swenson Andrea V. , Cornwell Zoë
Published: December 2016

This qualitative study focuses on the different ways time is experienced by children in families who face time challenges because of a family member's job that required work travel. Data are from a family‐level study that includes interviews of all family members older than age 7. Using grounded theory methodology, this study illustrates the ways in which job demands and family processes interact. The analysis centers on 75 children's perspectives from 43 families. Holding together assessments of having enough time while wanting more time with their parents, children express emotion, generally unrecognized by parents, around the topic of family time. Children's experience of time with parents is rushed or calm, depending on the activities done in time and the gender of the parent with whom they spend time. Findings are interpreted through a feminist social constructionist lens.
PANEL DATA MODELS WITH SPATIALLY DEPENDENT NESTED RANDOM EFFECTS
Authors: Fingleton Bernard , Le Gallo Julie , Pirotte Alain
Published: December 2016

This paper focuses on panel data models combining spatial dependence with a nested (hierarchical) structure. We use a generalized moments estimator to estimate the spatial autoregressive parameter and the variance components of the disturbance process. A spatial counterpart of the Cochrane‐Orcutt transformation leads to a feasible generalized least squares procedure to estimate the regression parameters. Monte Carlo simulations show that our estimators perform well in terms of root mean square error compared to the maximum likelihood estimator. The approach is applied to English house price data for districts nested within counties.
How the cheetahs' specialized palate accommodates its abnormally large teeth
Authors: Steenkamp G. , Boy S. C. , van Staden P. J. , Bester M. N.
Published: December 2016

The term focal palatine erosion was introduced into the literature to describe infection of a palatal depression palatal to the 4th maxillary premolar in cheetahs, previously hypothesized to be of pathological nature or to possibly accommodate the large mandibular molar teeth. Currently, there exists no literature that describes the normal anatomy of the palate of a cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) with specific reference to these structures. The palates of six adult cheetahs, three young cheetah cubs and dry skulls of 27 cheetah, 25 lion (Panthera leo) and 18 leopards (Panthera pardus) were used in this macroscopic and microscopic study which proves the cheetah palate to have not only one but also up to three sets of palatal depressions corresponding to the cusps of the opposing mandibular cheek teeth. The largest depression caudo‐palatal to the maxillary fourth premolar tooth was always associated with a bone depression extending into the zygomatic arch bone, never described before. Through statistical analysis it is proven, for the first time, that cheetah in fact have relative macrodontia as determined by its tooth indices and comparing it to those of other African big cats namely lion and leopard. Up to eight palatal depressions are present on the palates of adult cheetahs and these are described as functional anatomical structures present to accommodate not only one but also all three opposing mandibular cheek teeth cusps. Palatal depressions are formed as the mandibular cheek teeth erupt into final occlusion and are filled up with bone and/or soft tissue after loss of the opposing mandibular teeth or its cusps, further supporting the above hypothesis. Apart from the above, the structural anatomy of the cheetah palate and vomeronasal organ was compared with that of the domestic cat.
Asymmetry of the nasofacial skull in toothed whales (Odontoceti)
Authors: Huggenberger S. , Leidenberger S. , Oelschläger H. H. A.
Published: December 2016

In this study, the nasal asymmetry of odontocetes (toothed whales) was analyzed morphometrically by placing landmarks on photographed nasofacial skulls from 12 different species and genera that belong to four odontocete families. The results show that the degree of asymmetry tends to be linked with the mechanism of click sound generation in odontocetes. The narrow‐banded high‐frequency echolocators, such as Phocoenidae, Inia geoffrensis, Pontoporia blainvillei and Cephalorhynchus commersonii, show a more symmetric skull than the broad‐banded low‐frequency species (most delphinids). Exceptions to this tendency are, for example Kogia sima, with narrow‐banded high‐frequency clicks and a high degree of nasofacial asymmetry, and Feresa attenuata, a delphinid with broad‐banded low‐frequency clicks and a moderate degree of nasofacial asymmetry. Accordingly, there is no consistent functional correlation between click type and skull asymmetry probably because the nasofacial skull does not strictly reflect the anatomy of the sound generating nasal soft structures.
Russian Caucasians have a higher risk of erosive reflux disease compared with East Asians: A direct endoscopic comparison
Authors: Ko S.‐H. , Baeg M. K. , Jung H. S. , Kim P. , Choi M.‐G.
Published: December 2016

Background

Erosive reflux disease (ERD) is prevalent in the West, and its incidence is increasing in the East. The differences between the West and East, especially in body composition, have not been investigated thoroughly.

Methods

Subjects who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and body composition analysis during health screening were analyzed retrospectively. Russian Caucasians who visited Korea were propensity matched with native Koreans. Endoscopy results were analyzed to identify ERD and gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV) status. Body composition and laboratory results were compared to identify risk factors for ERD.

Key Results

32 279 subjects underwent health screening with 1496 Russian Caucasians propensity matched with 1496 Koreans. ERD prevalence was 20.2% for Caucasians and 9.8% for Koreans (P<.001). Caucasians had significantly greater body mass index (BMI) and were more sarcopenic. Significant risk factors for ERD were Caucasian ethnicity (OR 1.629, 95% CI 1.265–2.099, P<.001), male gender (OR 2.374, 95% CI 1.883–2.993, P<.001), greater BMI (OR 1.067, 95% CI 1.041–1.093, P<.001), and abnormal GEFV (OR 2.730, 95% CI 2.194–3.397, P<.001). H. pylori seropositivity (OR 0.614, 95% CI 0.488–0.774, P<.001) and atrophic gastritis (OR 0.547, 95% CI 0.411–0.728, P<.001) were significantly preventive.

Conclusions & Inferences

Caucasian ethnicity is a significant risk factor for ERD. Greater BMI, male gender and abnormal GEFV are associated with ERD, and H. pylori seropositivity and atrophic gastritis are preventive. Further studies are needed to assess the differences in ERD between Caucasians and East Asians.
Pediatric anaphylaxis in the operating room for anesthesia residents: a simulation study
Authors: Johnston Emily B. , King Collin , Sloane Peter A. , Cox Jerral W. , Youngblood Amber Q. , Lynn Zinkan Jerry , Tofil Nancy M.
Published: December 2016

Background

Pediatric intraoperative emergencies are rare but it is crucial for an anesthesia resident to be proficient in their management. Even the more common emergencies like anaphylaxis may not happen frequently for this proficiency to occur. Simulation increases exposure to these rare events in a safe learning environment to improve skills and build confidence while standardizing curriculum.

Objective

Anesthesia residents participated in a simulated case of intraoperative pediatric anaphylaxis to evaluate knowledge and performance gaps. The study also sought to determine whether a difference exists between second‐ (CA2) and third‐year (CA3) anesthesia residents when managing pediatric anaphylaxis and cardiopulmonary arrest.

Methods

Anesthesia residents completed a standardized programmed simulation of intraoperative anaphylaxis in a 5‐year old undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Anaphylaxis presented and progressed to bradycardia and pulseless electrical activity if anaphylaxis went unnoticed or untreated. Key time points were recorded. A scripted debriefing and written evaluation followed.

Results

Average time to diagnose anaphylaxis was 7.6 min, and time to give epinephrine was 6.5 min. Thirty‐five percent of residents started epinephrine infusion following initial bolus. Average time calling for help between CA3 and CA2 residents was 2.5 min vs 5 min (P = 0.01). CA3 residents verbalized a broader differential, including malignant hyperthermia and pneumothorax. Progression to pulseless electrical activity occurred in 65% of sessions prior to epinephrine being administered. No resident initiated chest compressions for bradycardia.

Conclusions

Important performance deficits were seen in senior anesthesia residents during a simulated case of pediatric intraoperative anaphylaxis. Although CA3 performed better, deficits still existed. Anesthesia residents and training programs should partner in developing additional training recognizing anaphylaxis, pulseless electrical activity, and indication for chest compressions in a child.
The δ18O of UST Quartz in Two Porphyry Deposits, China
Authors: Qu Huanchun , Sun Maoyu , Dong Pu
Published: December 2016

The unidirectional solidification textures (UST) quartz is generally thought to form from fluids exsolved from shallow intrusions and/or magma chambers, but such an idea is still poorly constrained from the evidence of stable isotopes. In this study, we report for the first time the δ18O of quartz that shows UST from the Qulong Cu–Mo and the Yechangping Mo porphyry deposits in China. The analysis results show that the UST quartz samples from the Qulong deposit have δ18O values ranging from +6.2 ‰ to +7.6 ‰, which are similar to that of quartz phenocrysts (+6.7 ‰ to +7.8 ‰). In contrast, the UST quartz samples from the Yechangping porphyry Mo deposit yield a high δ18O value (+10.0 ‰). The δ18Owater value of Yechangping UST quartz (+8.5 ‰) is also higher than that of Qulong (+4.6 ‰ to +5.8 ‰). Hydrothermal biotite from potassic alteration and sericite from early phyllic alteration at Qulong have similar δ18O values to UST quartz, suggesting the involvement of magmatic fluids during this stage of deposit evolution.
Evolutions in Consumption Inequality and Poverty in Greece: The Impact of the Crisis and Austerity Policies
Authors: Kaplanoglou Georgia , Rapanos Vassilis T.
Published: December 2016

Greece is the country hit hardest by the crisis and subsequent fiscal consolidation strategies, suffering a cumulative output loss of about 30 percent since 2008. The present paper presents evidence that along with declining average living standards, consumption inequality has seriously grown, fueled primarily by a disproportionate drop in the consumption levels of what can be considered the middle class. Although poverty has not significantly risen in relative terms, it climbs to around 45 percent once the poverty threshold is anchored to pre‐crisis levels. Furthermore, significant indirect tax hikes have further increased inequality in consumption expenditure. The paper also shows that several reforms launched in the name of reducing labor costs, broadening the tax base or rationalizing the targeting of social benefits have had detrimental effects on one of the most vulnerable population groups, namely families with children, thus implying that the social consequences of the crisis will be long‐lasting.
Protocols for treating patients with end‐stage renal disease: a survey of nephrology fellowships
Authors: Perry Maureen Munnelly , Howell Scott , Patel Nipa
Published: December 2016

Rationale/background

Approximately 14% of Americans are living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), the result of progressing CKD continues to rise by 21,000 per year. Currently, the only antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines for patients with ESRD undergoing dental treatment were published by the AHA in 2003. Presented in three parts, the first and second parts of this study found no consistent protocols amongst U.S. dental schools and U.S. GPRs and AEGDs, respectively. The goal of the third part of the project was to determine the current protocol being used to treat ESRD patients at U.S. nephrology fellowship programs.

Methods and materials

An 18 multiple‐choice question survey was e‐mailed to 130 directors of nephrology fellowships within the U.S. regarding renal treatment protocol details and antibiotic prophylaxis for patients with renal disease.

Results

Note that, 34.6% of respondents reported having an established renal treatment protocol. For programs with a protocol, 69% of programs reported following AHA guidelines.

Conclusion

There is a lack of consistent, established protocols amongst U.S. nephrology fellowships. It is suggested that updated and evidence based guidelines for the safe treatment of patients be developed.
Different Reasons to Play Games in an English Language Class
Authors: Sevy-Biloon Julia
Published: December 2016

English language students at the Universidad Nacional de Educacion (UNAE) in Ecuador tend to have various learning styles and have a hard time being motivated to not only learn, but also remember the correct form of English language being taught in the classroom. It is mandatory for these students to learn English; therefore many do not have intrinsic reasons for wanting to study English. This study focused on a group of 30 fourth semester beginner EFL university students studying to be elementary school teachers. Through the research conducted, the author investigated how game play in the classroom could intrinsically motivate, promote different learning styles and advance English language learning when students do not have an initial want or understanding of the need to learn the language other than the fact that it is a mandatory subject in their university. Games were used throughout the course to reinforce grammar and vocabulary, promote multiple skill learning while using diverse teaching styles to create an environment, which independently motivated the pupils of the class to not only want to learn, but also to internalize the language. Students were given various questionnaires, an online quiz and assessment materials to assist the teacher in finding the results for the study. Through the findings of the study these tools produced results that demonstrated the importance of games as a strategy to use in a language class, with college age students in UNAE. Games helped students increase their speaking, reading, writing and listening skills and at the same time increased their motivation to want and appreciate learning English. They were a specifically useful strategy with this group, because it also aided in authentic learning and made fundamental English language learning more enjoyable.
Relationship of side dominance and ultrasonographic measurements of pronator quadratus muscle along with handgrip and pinch strength.
Authors: Ok Nusret , Agladioglu Kadir , Gungor Harun R. , Kitis Ali , Akkaya Semih , Akkoyunlu Nuran Sabir , Demirkan Fahir
Published: December 2016

Aims: We ascertained effects of hand dominance in both right and left-handed volunteers on the thickness and cross sectional area (CSA) of pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle as measured by the axial and sagittal views of ultrasound imaging. Secondly, we also aimed to document the extent of the relationship between the PQ measurements and handgrip. Materials and methods: Healthy adults from the volunteer medical staff were included in the study. Handedness was assessed via The Flinders Handedness survey. The sonographic appearance of the PQ was evaluated on sagittal and axial images for both hands. CSA of PQ muscle was digitally drawn and calculated on the axial plane. Handgrip was measured by using adjustable-handle dynamometer. Results: Eighty-nine healthy volunteers were included (54 right and 35 left-handed). Significant difference was detected between dominant and non-dominant hands in CSA and muscle thickness in both right and left-handed volunteers (p<0.05). These measurements were correlated with the handgrip strength (p<0.05, r=0.55, and r=0.43 for right-handed volunteers, r=0.67 and r=0.48 for left-handed volunteers, respectively). There were also significantly high correlations between the measurements of CSA and PQ thickness of the corresponding extremity in both right-handed and left-handed volunteers (p<0.05). Conclusions: A statistically significant difference exists between dominant and non-dominant hands in CSA and muscle thickness measured by US in both right and left handed volunteers, and this is correlated with handgrip strength. Hand dominance should be considered to compare healthy and affected sites during US of PQ while investigating for occult fractures of distal forearm or PQ atrophy due to anterior interosseous nerve injury.
Nitroglycerin mediated dilation evaluated by ultrasound is associated with sTWEAK in hemodialysis patients.
Authors: Rusu Crina Claudia , Ghervan Liviu , Racasan Simona , Kacso Ina , Moldovan Diana , Potra Alina , Bondor Cosmina , Anton Florin , Patiu Ioan Mihai , Gherman Mirela Caprioara
Published: December 2016

Aims: The main cause of death in hemodialysis (HD) patients is cardiovascular disease. Ultrasound assessment of the brachial artery dysfunction is easily achievable and can non-invasively detect atherosclerosis in various stages. In HD patients the cardiovascular risk profile is different and the determinants of brachial arterial function can be distinct comparing with general population. The aim of the study is to assess the determinants of arterial brachial function (flow-mediated and nitroglycerin-mediated dilation) evaluated by ultrasound in HD patients and their relation with tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (sTWEAK) described as atherosclerotic marker in chronic kidney disease patients. Material and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study on 54 hemodialysis patients. We recorded clinical and biological data and we measured sTWEAK serum levels by ELISA. We evaluated the arterial brachial function by measurement of flow-mediated and nitroglycerin-mediated dilation, using B mode ultrasound. Results: The determinants of flow-mediated dilation were: Kt/V (r=0.47, p<0.001), LDL-cholesterol (r=0.29, p=0.04), and total cholesterol (r=0.31, p=0.02). Flow-mediated dilation correlated with nitroglycerin-mediated dilation (r=0.70, p<0.001). In multivariate analysis kt/V was the only significant predictor for flow-mediated dilation (p=0.04). Nitroglycerin-mediated dilation correlates with sTWEAK (r=-0.30, p=0.03), systolic blood pressure (r=-0.28, p=0.04) and pulse pressure (r=-0.31, p=0.02). In multivariate analysis sTWEAK was the only significant predictor for nitroglycerin-mediated dilation (p=0.04). Conclusions: The main determinant of nitroglycerin-mediated dilation was sTWEAK. In addition, decreased nitroglycerin-mediated dilation was associated with higher systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure. The main determinant of FMD was Kt/V. Increased flow-mediated dilation was associated with better dialysis efficiency and high total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol.
Influence of various preys in soybean and the biological performance of the predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus (Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Toldi Maicon , Reichert Marliza Beatris , Rode Priscila De Andrade , Johann Liana , Ferla Noeli Juarez
Published: December 2016

Mites and insects cause damage to soybean crops (Glycine max (L.): Fabaceae). Mononychellus planki McGregor, Tetranychus ludeni Zacher (Acari: Tetranychidae) and Caliothrips phaseoli Hood (Insecta: Thripidae) have been mentioned as pests of soybean crops in Brazil, while Neoseiulus californicus McGregor (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is considered a generalist predatory mite. This work aimed to determine the biological parameters of N. californicus feeding on T. ludeni, M. planki and C. phaseoli on transgenic soybean leaves. Thirty N. californicus eggs were individually placed in arenas with T. ludeni, M. planki and C. phaseoli. Egg-to-adult duration (in days) was longest when fed T. ludeni (5.52±0.06) and shortest when fed C. phaseoli (4.89±0.06). Mean fertility was approximately 32 eggs/female and did not differ significantly when N. californicus fed on T. ludeni or M. planki. During the adult stage, N. californicus did not lay eggs when feeding on C. phaseoli and survived for only a few days. The net reproductive rate (Ro) of N. californicus was larger when fed T. ludeni (20.30±0.68) than M. planki (14.66±0.29). Both M. planki and T. ludeni were suitable prey for N. californicus, while C. phaseoli was not.
Increased activity of TNAP compensates for reduced adenosine production and promotes ectopic calcification in the genetic disease ACDC
Authors: Jin Hui , St. Hilaire Cynthia , Huang Yuting , Yang Dan , Dmitrieva Natalia I. , Negro Alejandra , Schwartzbeck Robin , Liu Yangtengyu , Yu Zhen , Walts Avram , Davaine Jean-Michel , Lee Duck-Yeon , Donahue Danielle , Hsu Kevin S. , Chen Jessica , Cheng Tao , Gahl William , Chen Guibin , Boehm Manfred
Published: December 2016

Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells reveal treatment strategies for a rare genetic form of arterial calcification.
Mitotic phosphotyrosine network analysis reveals that tyrosine phosphorylation regulates Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1)
Authors: Caron Danielle , Byrne Dominic P. , Thebault Philippe , Soulet Denis , Landry Christian R. , Eyers Patrick A. , Elowe Sabine
Published: December 2016

Tyrosine phosphorylation regulates a serine/threonine kinase that controls progression through mitosis.
MicroRNAs that interfere with interferons
Authors: Mushegian Alexandra A.
Published: December 2016

Hepatitis C virus induces host expression of microRNAs that disrupt antiviral signaling.
Paper of note in
Science
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: December 2016

This week’s article describes an engineered circuit that enables cells to sense and respond to changes in blood glucose.
Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Tenofovir in the Genital Tract of Male HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Valade Elodie , Bouazza Naïm , Lui Gabrielle , Illamola Silvia M. , Benaboud Sihem , Treluyer Jean-Marc , Cobat Aurélie , Foissac Frantz , De Sousa Mendes Maïlys , Chenevier-Gobeaux Camille , Suzan-Monti Marie , Rouzioux Christine , Assoumou Lambert , Viard Jean-Paul , Urien Saïk , Ghosn Jade , Hirt Déborah
Published: December 2016

The aims of this study were to describe the blood plasma (BP) and seminal plasma (SP) pharmacokinetics of tenofovir (TFV) in HIV-1-infected men, to assess the role of genetic polymorphism in the variability of TFV transfer into the male genital tract, and to evaluate the impact of TFV SP exposure on seminal plasma HIV load (spVL). Men from the Evarist-ANRS EP 49 study treated with TFV as part of their antiretroviral therapy were included in the study. A total of 248 and 217 TFV BP and SP concentrations from 129 men were available for the analysis. For pharmacogenetic assessment, a total of 121 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were genotyped. Data were analyzed using a nonlinear mixed-effects modeling approach. TFV pharmacokinetics were best described by a two-compartment model for BP and by an effect compartment with different input and output constants for SP. TFV exposures (area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h [AUC0–24]) were higher in SP than in BP (median AUC0–24, 7.01 versus 2.97 mg · liter−1· h, respectively). The median (range) SP-to-BP AUC0–24ratio was 2.24 (0.53 to 34.13). After correction for multiple testing, none of the SNPs were significantly associated with the TFV transfer rate constant. The impact of the TFV SP AUC0–24or TFV SP-to-BP AUC0–24ratio on spVL was not significant (P= 0.808 and 0.768, respectively). This is the first population model describing TFV pharmacokinetics in the male genital tract. TFV SP concentrations were higher than BP concentrations. Despite TFV SP exposures being higher than BP exposures, an spVL was detectable for 12.2% of the men.
Salvage Therapy with Ceftolozane-Tazobactam for Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections
Authors: Castón Juan José , De la Torre Álvaro , Ruiz-Camps Isabel , Sorlí María Luisa , Torres Vicente , Torre-Cisneros Julián
Published: December 2016

Infections caused by multidrug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(MDRPA) present a major problem for therapeutic management. We report here our experience with 12 patients with a severe MDRPA infection (6 of which were pneumonia) who received salvage therapy with ceftolozane-tazobactam after inappropriate empirical treatment and/or suboptimal targeted treatment. Although 10 of the 12 patients (83.3%) experienced septic shock, only 3 patients (25%) died during the follow-up period. Microbiological cure in 7 patients (58.3%) was observed.
Thermoregulation of Biofilm Formation in Burkholderia pseudomallei Is Disrupted by Mutation of a Putative Diguanylate Cyclase
Authors: Plumley Brooke A. , Martin Kevin H. , Borlee Grace I. , Marlenee Nicole L. , Burtnick Mary N. , Brett Paul J. , AuCoin David P. , Bowen Richard A. , Schweizer Herbert P. , Borlee Bradley R.
Published: December 2016

Burkholderia pseudomallei
, a tier 1 select agent and the etiological agent of melioidosis, transitions from soil and aquatic environments to infect a variety of vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. During the transition from an environmental saprophyte to a mammalian pathogen,
B. pseudomallei
encounters and responds to rapidly changing environmental conditions. Environmental sensing systems that control cellular levels of cyclic di-GMP promote pathogen survival in diverse environments. Cyclic di-GMP controls biofilm production, virulence factors, and motility in many bacteria. This study is an evaluation of cyclic di-GMP-associated genes that are predicted to metabolize and interact with cyclic di-GMP as identified from the annotated genome of
B. pseudomallei
1026b. Mutants containing transposon disruptions in each of these genes were characterized for biofilm formation and motility at two temperatures that reflect conditions that the bacteria encounter in the environment and during the infection of a mammalian host. Mutants with transposon insertions in a known phosphodiesterase (
cdpA
) and a predicted hydrolase (Bp1026b_I2285) gene exhibited decreased motility regardless of temperature. In contrast, the phenotypes exhibited by mutants with transposon insertion mutations in a predicted diguanylate cyclase gene (Bp1026b_II2523) were strikingly influenced by temperature and were dependent on a conserved GG(D/E)EF motif. The transposon insertion mutant exhibited enhanced biofilm formation at 37°C but impaired biofilm formation at 30°C. These studies illustrate the importance of studying behaviors regulated by cyclic di-GMP under varied environmental conditions in order to better understand cyclic di-GMP signaling in bacterial pathogens.

IMPORTANCE
This report evaluates predicted cyclic di-GMP binding and metabolic proteins from
Burkholderia pseudomallei
1026b, a tier 1 select agent and the etiologic agent of melioidosis. Transposon insertion mutants with disruptions in each of the genes encoding these predicted proteins were characterized in order to identify key components of the
B. pseudomallei
cyclic di-GMP-signaling network. A predicted hydrolase and a phosphodiesterase that modulate swimming motility were identified, in addition to a diguanylate cyclase that modulates biofilm formation and motility in response to temperature. These studies warrant further evaluation of the contribution of cyclic di-GMP to melioidosis in the context of pathogen acquisition from environmental reservoirs and subsequent colonization, dissemination, and persistence within the host.
Evidence of an axial magma chamber beneath the ultraslow-spreading Southwest Indian Ridge
Authors: Jian Hanchao , Singh Satish C. , Chen Yongshun John , Li Jiabiao
Published: December 2016

Ultraslow-spreading ridges are a novel class of spreading centers symbolized by amagmatic crustal accretion, exposing vast amounts of mantle-derived peridotites on the seafloor. However, distinct magmatic centers with high topographies and thick crusts are also observed within the deep axial valleys. This suggests that despite the low overall melt supply, the magmatic process interacting with the tectonic process should play an important role in crustal accretion; however, this has been obscured due to the lack of seismic images of magma chambers. Using a combination of seismic tomography and full waveform inversion of ocean bottom seismometer data from the Southwest Indian Ridge at 50°28′E, we report the presence of a large low-velocity anomaly (LVA) ∼4–9 km below the seafloor, representing an axial magma chamber (AMC) in the lower crust. This suggests that the 9.5-km-thick crust here is mainly formed by a magmatic process. The LVA is overlain by a high-velocity layer, possibly forming the roof of the AMC and defining the base of hydrothermal circulation. The steep velocity gradient just below the high-velocity layer is explained by the ponding of magma at the top of the AMC; this could provide the overpressure for lateral dike propagation along the ridge axis, leading to a complex interaction between magma emplacement, tectonic, and hydrothermal processes, and creating a diversity of seafloor morphology and extremely heterogeneous crust.
Resolving the role of carbonaceous material in gold precipitation in metasediment-hosted orogenic gold deposits
Authors: Hu Si-Yu , Evans Katy , Craw Dave , Rempel Kirsten , Grice Kliti
Published: December 2016

Carbonaceous material (CM) is commonly associated with gold and sulfides in metasediment-hosted orogenic gold deposits. The role of CM in Au deposition is controversial; CM has been proposed to contribute to gold deposition by reducing Au bisulfide complexes, or by facilitating sulfidation, which destabilizes Au in bisulfide complexes with resultant Au deposition. Integration of petrographic observations, thermodynamic models, and geochemical data from metasediment-hosted orogenic gold deposits in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and West Africa reveals genetic links between sulfides, CM, and mineralization. The results are consistent with the coexistence of CM and pyrite as a consequence of their codeposition from ore fluids, with a minor proportion of CM originally in situ in the host rocks. Au is deposited when pyrite and CM deposition decreases H2S concentration in ore fluids, destabilizing Au(HS)2– complexes. Most CM in gold deposits is deposited from CO2 and CH4 in ore fluids. These findings are applicable to similar deposits worldwide.
Mantle earthquakes, crustal structure, and gravitational instability beneath western North Island, New Zealand
Authors: Dimech Jesse-Lee , Stern Tim , Lamb Simon
Published: December 2016

A cluster of 30–52-km-deep earthquakes, and a 7–10 km step in the Moho beneath western North Island, New Zealand, are both interpreted as manifestations of active delamination of the continental lower crust and mantle lithosphere. These phenomena occur in the back-arc region beneath the east-west–oriented Taranaki-Ruapehu (TR) line, which strikes at a high angle to the present-day plate boundary through New Zealand. Across the line, there is an abrupt change in crustal and mantle lid thickness, and in upper-mantle seismic attenuation (Qp–1), showing that the mantle lithosphere has been highly thinned on the north side. We show from a receiver function profile that nearly all of the deep earthquakes reside in the uppermost mantle on the northern side of the TR line. A sum of earthquake moment tensors suggests strike-slip motion either parallel, or orthogonal, to the TR line, resulting in northwest-southeast–oriented horizontal extension. Active normal faults, oriented northwest-southeast and north-south, are seen at the surface on each side of the TR line, but the surface is uplifting here at ∼0.4 mm/yr. This requires the mantle lithosphere to be thinning at a higher rate than the overlying crust, consistent with a delamination process.
Silicified glendonites in the Ediacaran Doushantuo Formation (South China) and their potential paleoclimatic implications
Authors: Wang Zhou , Wang Jiasheng , Suess Erwin , Wang Guangzhe , Chen Can , Xiao Shuhai
Published: December 2016

The Ediacaran Period is punctuated by the ca. 580 Ma Gaskiers glaciation in Newfoundland. However, paleoclimatic data are scarce in Ediacaran successions in South China, where abundant geochemical and paleobiological data are shaping current understanding of Ediacaran evolutionary and environmental history. Here, we report the occurrence of silicified glendonites in the Ediacaran Doushantuo Formation deposited in an inner-shelf environment on the South China block. Petrographic evidence suggests that these silicified glendonites are pseudomorphs after syndepositional or early authigenic ikaites formed at near-freezing temperatures. The glendonite-bearing stratigraphic interval is characterized by positive δ13C values. It predates both the negative δ13C excursion EN3 (widely believed to be an equivalent of the Shuram negative excursion) and excursion EN2. Although alternative interpretations may be possible, these glendonites may be related to and correlated with the Gaskiers glaciation. If confirmed, this correlation suggests that the Shuram event postdates the Gaskiers glaciation, thus having important implications for Ediacaran climate changes, carbon cycles, and biological evolution.
Rare cause of back pain:Staphylococcus aureusvertebral osteomyelitis complicated by recurrent epidural abscess and severe sepsis
Authors: Dunphy Louise , Iyer Shabnam , Brown Christopher
Published: December 2016

An epidural abscess represents a rare acute medical emergency, with a reported incidence of 2.5/10 000 hospital admissions annually. The clinical features include fever, spinal pain, radiating nerve root pain and leg weakness. When sepsis is present, prompt recognition is required to initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy and surgical decompression. We present the case of a man aged 68 years presenting to the emergency department with a 3-day history of fever, low back, right hip and leg pain. He was hypoxic, tachycardic and hypotensive. He required intubation and ventilation. An MRI spine confirmed a posterior epidural abscess from T12 to L4. Blood cultures revealedStaphylococcus aureus. He started treatment with linezolid and underwent incision and drainage. He remained septic and 8 days later, a repeat MRI spine showed a peripherally enhancing posterior epidural collection from L2/L3 to L4/L5, consistent with a recurrent epidural abscess. Further drainage was performed. He developed bilateral knee pain requiring washout. His right knee synovial biopsy culturedS. aureus. He continued treatment with linezolid for 6 weeks until his C reactive protein was 0.8 ng/L. He started neurorehabilitation. 10 weeks later, he became feverish with lumbar spine tenderness. An MRI spine showed discitis of the L5/S1 endplate. A CT-guided biopsy confirmed discitis and osteomyelitis. Histology was positive forS. aureusand he started treatment with oral linezolid. After 19 days, he was discharged with 1 week of oral linezolid 600 mg 2 times per day, followed by 1 further week of oral clindamycin 600 mg 4 times daily. This case report reinforces the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion, with a prompt diagnosis and combined medical and surgical treatment to prevent adverse outcomes in this patient cohort. With spinal surgical services centralised, physicians may not encounter this clinical diagnosis more often in day-to-day hospital medical practice. The unique aspect of this case is the persistence and then the recurrence (despite 6 weeks of antimicrobial therapy and a second debridement) ofS. aureusinfection. Furthermore, the paucity of clinical recommendations and the controversy regarding the adequate duration of antimicrobial therapy are notable features of this case.
Accurate diagnosis of iliac vein thrombosis in pregnancy with magnetic resonance direct thrombus imaging (MRDTI)
Authors: Dronkers Charlotte E A , Srámek Alexandr , Huisman Menno V , Klok Frederikus A
Published: December 2016

A pregnant woman aged 29 years, G1P0 at 21 weeks of gestation of a dichorionic diamniotic twin, presented with suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the left leg. Repeated (compression) ultrasonography was not diagnostic for DVT but showed reduced flow over the left external iliac vein, common femoral vein and superficial femoral vein. In pursue of a definite diagnosis, magnetic resonance direct thrombus imaging was performed showing a clear high signal in the left common iliac vein which is diagnostic for acute thrombosis in this venous segment. Phase contrast venography supported this diagnosis, showing no flow in the left common iliac vein. Treatment with anticoagulants was started. 6 months after the diagnosis, the patient is doing well and does not report signs of post-thrombotic syndrome.
Seven years of progress in tobacco control: an evaluation of the effect of nations meeting the highest level MPOWER measures between 2007 and 2014
Authors: Levy David T , Yuan Zhe , Luo Yuying , Mays Darren
Published: December 2016

Objective

Since WHO released the package of six MPOWER measures to assist nations with implementing the WHO Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (FCTC), 88 countries adopted at least one highest level MPOWER measure. We estimated the subsequent reduction in smoking-related deaths from all new highest level measures adopted between 2007 and 2014.

Methods

Policy effect sizes based on previously validatedSimSmokemodels were applied to the number of smokers in each nation to determine the reduction in the number of smokers from policy adoption. On the basis of research that half of all smokers die from smoking, we derived the smoking-attributable deaths (SADs) averted of those smokers alive today.

Findings

In total, 88 countries adopted at least one highest level MPOWER policy between 2007 and 2014, resulting in almost 22 million fewer projected SADs. The largest number of future SADs averted was due to increased cigarette taxes (7.0 million), followed by comprehensive smoke-free laws (5.4 million), large graphic health warnings (4.1 million), comprehensive marketing bans (3.8 million) and comprehensive cessation interventions (1.5 million).

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the immense public health impact of tobacco control policies adopted globally since the WHO-FCTC and highlight the importance of more countries adopting highest level MPOWER measures to reduce the global burden of tobacco use. Substantial additional progress could be made, especially if heavily populated nations with high smoking prevalence were to reach highest level MPOWER measures.
Efficacy of homeopathy in livestock according to peer‐reviewed publications from 1981 to 2014
Authors: Doehring C. , Sundrum A.
Published: December 2016

Homeopathy is widely used in livestock, especially in order to reduce the use of antibiotics, although it is often seen as controversial. A comprehensive literature review has been conducted to assess the efficacy of homeopathy in cattle, pigs and poultry. Only peer‐reviewed publications dealing with homeopathic remedies, which could possibly replace or prevent the use of antibiotics in the case of infective diseases or growth promotion in livestock were included. Search results revealed a total number of 52 trials performed within 48 publications fulfilling the predefined criteria. Twenty‐eight trials were in favour of homeopathy, with 26 trials showing a significantly higher efficacy in comparison to a control group, whereas 22 showed no medicinal effect. Cure rates for the treatments with antibiotics, homeopathy or placebo varied to a high degree, while the remedy used did not seem to make a big difference. Looking at all the studies, no study was repeated under comparable conditions. Consequently, the use of homeopathy currently cannot claim to have sufficient prognostic validity where efficacy is concerned. When striving for high therapeutic success in treatment, the potential of homeopathy in replacing or reducing antibiotics can only be validated if evidence of efficacy is confirmed by randomised controlled trials under modified conditions.