bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytopathology of non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features: A comparative study with similar patterned papillary thyroid carcinoma variants
Authors: Mahajan S. , Agarwal S. , Kocheri N. , Jain D. , Mathur S. R. , Iyer V. K.
Published: April 2018

Objective

Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features (NIFTP) is a recently described, indolent thyroid tumor, with well‐defined histopathological diagnostic criteria. Cytology features are not well documented. We reviewed cytology of histologically proven cases of NIFTP and some of its common differentials to look for salient diagnostic features.

Methods

Cases reported on histopathology as follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC), or NIFTP between July 2015 and April 2017 having available cytology smears were retrieved and reclassified as NIFTP, FVPTC, and classical papillary thyroid carcinoma with predominant follicular pattern (PTC‐FP). Cytological features were assessed, classified as per The Bethesda System for Reporting Cytopathology and compared.

Results

There were 23 NIFTP cases, 18 FVPTC and 8 PTC‐FP. A microfollicle‐predominant pattern was seen in all. Nuclear score was 2 in most NIFTP cases (61%). Pseudoinclusions were absent. NIFTP showed features of atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) (III) in 61%, follicular neoplasm/suspicious for a follicular neoplasm (FN/SFN) (IV) in 35% and suspicious for malignancy (SFM) (V) in 4%. Most of the FVPTCs were also called FN/SFN (IV) (56%) or AUS/FLUS (III) (22%). Nuclear features did not statistically differ from NIFTP. PTC‐FP showed high‐grade cytology in 75%, and higher nuclear score (3 in 75%) in contrast to NIFTP (P = .003).

Conclusion

NIFTP and FVPTC show a similar distribution among the Bethesda categories hence precluding conclusive distinction on cytology. PTC‐FP, in contrast, was found to have a statistically significant higher nuclear score and more commonly showed malignant cytology.
Temperature and humidity acclimation increase desiccation resistance in the butterfly Bicyclus anynana
Authors: Fischer Klaus , Kirste Manuela
Published: April 2018

Desiccation resistance, that is, the ability to reduce water loss, is an ecologically important trait relevant to all terrestrial organisms, which may constrain species distributions. Nevertheless, relatively few studies have investigated plastic capacities in desiccation resistance. We here investigate plastic responses in body mass change, used as a proxy of desiccation resistance, to variation in temperature and relative humidity in the tropical butterfly Bicyclus anynana (Butler) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae). Our results indicate that butterflies acclimated to a higher (27 °C) compared with a lower temperature (18 °C) and a lower (50%) compared with a higher (90%) relative humidity displayed a decreased loss of body mass, and therefore likely a loss of body water (27 °C: 11%, 18 °C: 15%; 50% r.h.: 14%, 90% r.h.: 18%). Thus, mass loss was reduced under conditions indicating increased desiccation risk, suggesting adaptive phenotypic plasticity. Effects were most pronounced during the first 24 h after acclimation, indicating quick and transient responses to environmental conditions. As anthropogenic climate change is predicted to increase the magnitude and frequency of heat and drought periods, we argue that more studies on plastic capacities in traits relating to desiccation resistance are needed to better understand species responses.
Australian native flowering plants enhance the longevity of three parasitoids of brassica pests
Authors: Pandey Sunita , Rahman Azizur , Gurr Geoff M.
Published: April 2018

Floral resources from native plants that are adapted to the local environment could be more advantageous than the use of nonnative plants. In Australia, there is a dearth of information on the benefits of native plants to natural enemies and their selectivity against pests. Accordingly, we examined the longevity of the parasitoids Diaeretiella rapae (McIntosh) and Cotesia glomerata (L.) (both Hymenoptera: Braconidae), and Diadegma semiclausum (Hellen) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) exposed to flowering shoots from Australian native plants which was compared with the nonnative buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), often used in conservation biological control. Longevity of parasitoids was significantly enhanced by the Australian natives Westringia fruticosa, Mentha satureioides, Callistemon citrinus, Leptospermum cv. ‘Rudolph’, Grevillea cv. ‘Bronze Rambler’, Myoporum parvifolium, Lotus australis, and nonnative F. esculentum. The highest mean survival by native plant species was 3.4× higher for D. rapae with Leptospermum sp. and 4.3× higher for D. semiclausum with M. parvifolium. For C. glomerata, Grevillea sp. increased longevity by 6.9× compared with water only. Longevity of Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), a major crop pest, was enhanced by all plants against which it was screened except Acacia baileyana, a species that had no effect on parasitoid longevity. Several Australian native plant species that benefit parasitoids were identified. None of the plant species provided a selective benefit to the parasitoid D. semiclausum compared with its host P. xylostella; however, the benefit of M. parvifolium and Grevillea sp. on the longevity of D. semiclausum was relatively higher compared with the pest. These results suggest the need for field studies to determine whether native Australian plants increase P. xylostella impact in nearby brassica crops.
trajr: An R package for characterisation of animal trajectories
Authors: McLean Donald James , Skowron Volponi Marta A.
Published: April 2018

Quantitative characterisation of the trajectories of moving animals is an important component of many behavioural and ecological studies, however methods are complicated and varied, and sometimes require well‐developed programming skills to implement. Here, we introduce trajr, an R package that serves to analyse animal paths, from unicellular organisms, through insects to whales. It makes a variety of statistical characterisations of trajectories, such as tortuosity, speed and changes in direction, available to biologists who may not have a background in programming. We discuss a range of indices that have been used by researchers, describe the package in detail, then use movement observations of whales and clearwing moths to demonstrate some of the capabilities of trajr. As an open‐source R package, trajr encourages open and reproducible research. It supports the implementation of additional methods by providing access to trajectory analysis “building blocks,” allows the full suite of R statistical analysis tools to be applied to trajectory analysis, and the source code can be independently validated.
Thermal evolution offsets the elevated toxicity of a contaminant under warming: A resurrection study in Daphnia magna
Authors: Zhang Chao , Jansen Mieke , De Meester Luc , Stoks Robby
Published: April 2018

Synergistic interactions between temperature and contaminants are a major challenge for ecological risk assessment, especially under global warming. While thermal evolution may increase the ability to deal with warming, it is unknown whether it may also affect the ability to deal with the many contaminants that are more toxic at higher temperatures. We investigated how evolution of genetic adaptation to warming affected the interactions between warming and a novel stressor: zinc oxide nanoparticles (nZnO) in a natural population of Daphnia magna using resurrection ecology. We hatched resting eggs from two D. magna subpopulations (old: 1955–1965, recent: 1995–2005) from the sediment of a lake that experienced an increase in average temperature and in recurrence of heat waves but was never exposed to industrial waste. In the old “ancestral” subpopulation, exposure to a sublethal concentration of nZnO decreased the intrinsic growth rate, metabolic activity, and energy reserves at 24°C but not at 20°C, indicating a synergism between warming and nZnO. In contrast, these synergistic effects disappeared in the recent “derived” subpopulation that evolved a lower sensitivity to nZnO at 24°C, which indicates that thermal evolution could offset the elevated toxicity of nZnO under warming. This evolution of reduced sensitivity to nZnO under warming could not be explained by changes in the total internal zinc accumulation but was partially associated with the evolution of the expression of a key metal detoxification gene under warming. Our results suggest that the increased sensitivity to the sublethal concentration of nZnO under the predicted 4°C warming by the end of this century may be counteracted by thermal evolution in this D. magna population. Our results illustrate the importance of evolution to warming in shaping the responses to another anthropogenic stressor, here a contaminant. More general, genetic adaptation to an environmental stressor may ensure that synergistic effects between contaminants and this environmental stressor will not be present anymore.
A novel approach for palatal cyst ablation in a horse
Authors: Sinovich M. , Kelly P. G. , Archer D. C.
Published: April 2018

An 18‐month‐old Welsh Cob was referred to a university teaching hospital for investigation of abnormal respiratory noise at rest. Video‐endoscopy revealed persistent displacement of the soft palate with bilateral 2–3 cm diameter raised areas on either side of the midline. Neither trans‐nasal nor oral approaches allowed sufficient visualisation of the caudal soft palate for diagnosis or treatment. Latero‐lateral radiographs showed a blunted, thickened caudal edge of the soft palate consistent with a palatal cyst. Two palatal cysts were thermally ablated with a transendoscopic diode laser via temporary tracheotomy. The horse recovered uneventfully and resolution of the displacement was evident on follow‐up endoscopy 11 months later. This report documents a novel surgical approach to the caudal aspect of the soft palate.
PD‐L1 expression in tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes is a poor prognostic factor for primary acral melanoma patients
Authors: Ren Min , Dai Bo , Kong Yun‐Yi , Lv Jiao‐Jie , Cai Xu
Published: April 2018

Aims

Programmed cell death protein 1–programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) blockade immunotherapy has shown notable therapeutic benefit in metastatic melanoma, but the clinical relevance of PD‐L1 expression remains unclear in melanoma, especially in acral melanoma, which is the most common subtype in Asians. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of PD‐L1 expression in primary acral melanoma.

Methods and results

We used immunohistochemistry to evaluate PD‐L1 expression in tumour cells and tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and analysed its associations with clinicopathological features and survival in 78 primary acral melanoma patients. We found that expression of PD‐L1 in tumour cells and TILs occurred exclusively in a tumour–stroma interface pattern, consistent with the predominant pattern of TIL distribution. The presence of peritumoral TILs was also associated with high PD‐L1 expression in tumour cells. Furthermore, PD‐L1 expression in tumour cells and that in TILs showed a close relationship (Spearman's rho = 0.381, P = 0.001). However, neither PD‐L1 expression in tumour cells nor that in TILs was significantly correlated with clinicopathological features. In univariate analysis, cases with PD‐L1‐positive TILs had significantly poorer survival than those with PD‐L1‐negative TILs (median disease‐specific survival of 40.7 months versus 78.0 months; P = 0.008). In multivariate analysis, PD‐L1 expression in TILs was an independent factor for poor prognosis (P = 0.032), whereas PD‐L1 expression in tumour cells was not significantly correlated with survival in univariate analysis (P = 0.378) and multivariate analysis (P = 0.354).

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate that PD‐L1 expression in TILs, but not that in tumour cells, is an independent predictor of poor prognosis in acral melanoma.
Bone Regeneration in rat using a gelatin/bioactive glass nanocomposite scaffold along with endothelial cells (HUVECs)
Authors: Kazemi Mansure , Azami Mahmoud , Johari Behrooz , Ahmadzadehzarajabad Maryam , Nazari Bahareh , Kargozar Saeid , Hajighasemlou Saieh , Mozafari Masoud , Soleimani Mansooreh , Samadikuchaksaraei Ali , Farajollahi Mohammad
Published: April 2018

In our previous study, a three‐dimensional gelatin/bioactive glass nanocomposite scaffold with a total porosity of about 85% and pore sizes ranging from 200 to 500 μm was prepared through layer solvent casting combined with lamination technique. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro biocompatibility and in vivo bone regeneration potential of these scaffolds with and without endothelial cells when implanted into a critical‐sized rat calvarial defect. MTT assay, SEM observation, and DAPI staining were used to evaluate cell viability and adhesion in macroporous scaffolds and results demonstrated that the scaffolds were biocompatible enough to support cell attachment and proliferation. To investigate the in vivo osteogenesis of the scaffold, blank scaffolds and endothelial/scaffold constructs were implanted in critical‐sized defects, whereas in control group defects were left untreated. Bone regeneration and vascularization were evaluated at 1, 4, and 12 weeks postsurgery by histological, immunohistochemical, and histomorphometric analysis. It was shown that both groups facilitated bone growth into the defect area but improved bone regeneration was seen with the incorporation of endothelial cells. The data showed that the porous Gel/BaG nanocomposite scaffolds could well support new bone formation, indicating that the proposed strategy is a promising alternative for tissue‐engineered bone defects.
Are You A Terrorist? Comparing Security Screening for Iraqi Asylum Seekers in the United States and Sweden
Authors: Micinski Nicholas R.
Published: April 2018

How can countries balance demands for national security while remaining committed to humanitarian protection? In 2016, the United States and European Union agreed to resettle significant numbers of refugees. Some politicians, including President Trump, argued that refugees are a security threat, even though there are few refugees connected to terrorism. This article investigates how the United States and Sweden screened for terrorism with Iraqi asylum seekers from 2003‐2013, in order to discover how states balance protection and security. This study finds significant policy convergence in three areas (security checks and databases, interagency cooperation, and safety valve programmes), but retains different definitions of terrorism. Policy convergence was driven by international law, UNHCR guidance notes, and international conferences. The study concludes by discussing the policy implications for “extreme vetting” and the use of future safety valve programmes.

Policy Implications

From 2003‐2013, both the US and Sweden added new security checks, databases, and interagency cooperation. One lesson is that in response to perceived security threats, states often add new layers of bureaucracy and technologies, resulting in slower, more burdensome processes.

To overcome these barriers, both the US and Sweden created safety value immigration programmes to relieve the pressure from overwhelming demand from Iraqi asylum‐seekers. Policymakers should consider the strategic use of safety valve programmes to speed up processing, allocate additional resources, and provide temporary protection without revising the wider immigration systems.
Entrepreneurial Motivations and Capabilities of Migrant Entrepreneurs in Australia
Authors: Rametse Nthati , Moremong‐Nganunu Topoyame , Ding Ming Juan , Arenius Pia
Published: April 2018

This article presents findings on immigrant entrepreneurship in Australia. The relationship between the entrepreneurial start‐up motivation, co‐ethnic preferences and entrepreneurial capabilities of established immigrant businesses are explored. We analyse data collected with a self‐administered survey questionnaire from 157 immigrant entrepreneurs in Melbourne's suburbs. Our findings show that immigrant entrepreneurs who report a high level of individual achievement as their start‐up motivation also report high levels of entrepreneurial capabilities in terms of opportunity recognition, managerial innovativeness and proactiveness. Immigrant entrepreneurs who are highly influenced by co‐ethnic preferences on staff employment and customer targeting report higher opportunity recognition than those who have a co‐ethnic preference on suppliers. We provide important insights and explanations for these findings and their implications for Australian immigrant entrepreneurs and policymakers.
Impacts of microbiome metabolites on immune regulation and autoimmunity
Authors: Haase Stefanie , Haghikia Aiden , Wilck Nicola , Müller Dominik N. , Linker Ralf A.
Published: April 2018

A vast number of studies have demonstrated a remarkable role for the gut microbiota and their metabolites in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent studies in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, an animal model of MS, have revealed that modifying certain intestinal bacterial populations may influence immune cell priming in the periphery, resulting in dysregulation of immune responses and neuroinflammatory processes in the central nervous system (CNS). Conversely, some commensal bacteria and their antigenic products can protect against inflammation within the CNS. Specific components of the gut microbiome have been implicated in the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and subsequent generation of Th17 cells. Similarly, commensal bacteria and their metabolites can also promote the generation of regulatory T‐cells (Treg), contributing to immune suppression. Short‐chain fatty acids may induce Treg either by G‐protein‐coupled receptors or inhibition of histone deacetylases. Tryptophan metabolites may suppress inflammatory responses by acting on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in T‐cells or astrocytes. Interestingly, secretion of these metabolites can be impaired by excess consumption of dietary components, such as long‐chain fatty acids or salt, indicating that the diet represents an environmental factor affecting the complex crosstalk between the gut microbiota and the immune system. This review discusses new aspects of host–microbiota interaction and the immune system with a special focus on MS as a prototype T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune disease of the CNS.
Microstructure and thermal conductivity of fully ceramic microencapsulated fuel fabricated by spark plasma sintering
Authors: Cao Fangcheng , Fan Xiaohui , Liu Bing , Zhao Xiaofeng , Guo Fangwei , Xiao Ping
Published: April 2018

Fully ceramic microencapsulated pellet (FCM), consisting of tristructural isotropic (TRISO) particles embedded in silicon carbide (SiC) matrix, was fabricated using spark plasma sintering. The parameters affecting the densification of SiC matrix were first investigated, and then FCM pellets were prepared using TRISO particles with/without outer pyrolytic carbon (OPyC) layer. Effects of thermal exposure on the TRISO particles during SPS were evaluated. In addition, the thermal condcutvitities of FCM pellet, as well as the SiC matrix, were measured using laser flash. It was revealed that the TRISO particles with OPyC layers significantly lower the thermal conductivity of FCM pellet. Based on Maxwell‐Eucken model, the predicted effective thermal conductivities of TRISO particles with/without OPyC layers were 14.4 W/m K and 25.2 W/m K, respectively. Finite elements simulation indicated that the SiC layer in TRISO particle plays a dominant role on the thermal conductivity of FCM. The presence of OPyC layers would generate gaps/porous SiC near the interface and resist the heat flows, leading to a lower thermal conductivity of FCM.
Automated 3D assembly of periodic alumina‐epoxy composite structures
Authors: Biggemann Jonas , Diepold Benedikt , Pezoldt Marc , Stumpf Martin , Greil Peter , Fey Tobias
Published: April 2018

Modular composites with a 3D periodic structure, consisting of a major brittle inorganic phase (building blocks) and a minor viscoelastic organic matrix, offer great potentials for improved fracture toughness and failure probability in polymer‐ceramic composites. Alumina building blocks with dimensions of 1500 μm were assembled by a novel placing system equipped with an automatic optical inspection (AOI) system. The AOI system coupled with shape recognition enables simultaneous dimensional characterization, tolerance sorting, and flexible placing of different shaped building blocks. 3D periodic structures with cubic, monoclinic, and triclinic unit cells were fabricated by high accuracy placing of cubic building blocks enabling near‐net shape manufacturing. The placing precision of the assembled structures was determined by μCT to have a maximum deviation of ±78 μm. The structures were afterward infiltrated with a soft epoxy resin to fabricate epoxy‐alumina composites. The brick‐and‐mortar like building block arrangements of the monoclinic and triclinic structures exhibited improved bending strength, fracture toughness, and failure probability compared to monolithic epoxy, due to crack deflection and pull‐out toughening mechanisms. A maximum bending strength of 35.1 ± 7.5 MPa, a work‐of‐fracture of 814.7 ± 255.1 J/m² and a calculated fracture toughness of 4.8 ± 0.8 MPa for the triclinic structures was achieved.
Multiple Pleistocene refugia and repeated phylogeographic breaks in the southern Caspian Sea region: Insights from the freshwater crab Potamon ibericum
Authors: Parvizi Elaheh , Naderloo Reza , Keikhosravi Alireza , Solhjouy‐Fard Samaneh , Schubart Christoph D.
Published: April 2018

Aim

Phylogeographic studies on a number of Western Palaearctic taxa imply that the southern Caspian Sea region served as a refugium during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Nevertheless, the LGM biogeography of the terrestrial and freshwater organisms in this region is poorly understood. By studying phylogeography of a species of freshwater crab, we unravel the location of probable local refugia and colonization patterns across this topographically complex landscape.

Location

Southern Caspian Sea region.

Taxon

The freshwater crab Potamon ibericum.

Methods

We inferred the demographic history of Potamon ibericum using 163 mtDNA Cox1 sequences from 16 localities. For a subset of specimens, we amplified mtDNA 16S and four nuclear markers (28S, Histone3, Enolase, NaK) to confirm the phylogeographic structure. We tested Pleistocene expansion–contraction dynamics, using species distribution modelling (SDM) and assessed morphological variability by geometric–morphometric methods.

Results

Mitochondrial markers revealed the existence of three parapatrically distributed lineages in the western, central and eastern parts of the region. The more conserved nuclear markers did not reflect this. The SDM revealed the fundamental niche expansion of P. ibericum along the southern Caspian Sea during the LGM, agreeing with results from the Cox1 data of demographic expansions. Despite strong morphological resemblance, geometric–morphometrics elucidated clinal carapace shape variation.

Main Conclusions

Considering the Caspian Sea level fluctuations during the late Pleistocene, we hypothesize a scenario of demographic contraction during interglacial/warmer conditions, due to the Caspian Sea transgression and latitudinal range shift within the narrow distribution of the species between the southern Caspian Sea and northern slopes of the Alborz Mountains. During the glacial periods, the sea regressed and moist and warm conditions, characterizing glacial refugia, became prevalent in the region and caused isolated populations to expand. Our study confirms the deep transverse phylogeographic break, previously identified for Darevskia lizards in the region, and adds support to the presence of several LGM refugia in the southern Caspian Sea region.
Historical stability promoted higher functional specialization and originality in Neotropical stream fish assemblages
Authors: Rodrigues‐Filho Carlos A.S. , Leitão Rafael P. , Zuanon Jansen , Sánchez‐Botero Jorge I. , Baccaro Fabricio B.
Published: April 2018

Aim

Disturbances are events that influence the structure of biological assemblages, yet how historical disturbances have affected the functional structure of recent assemblages is still poorly known. We used species functional traits to investigate the effects of historical disturbances, such as past climate change (aridification), on the current structure of stream fish assemblages.

Location

Amazon Basin and Brazilian Northeast streams.

Methods

We used measures of functional specialization and originality to assess the effects of historical disturbances on the structure of fish assemblages in streams with similar local environmental conditions in each biome (Amazonia and Caatinga). For this, we measured 15 traits related to locomotion, feeding and habitat use for each species sampled. We then compared the functional structure of each assemblage expressed as functional richness (FRic) and evenness (FEve) between biomes. We also used structured and random simulations of species extinctions to identify the influence of the loss of original and specialized species due to historical disturbance.

Results

We found high levels of functional specialization in Amazonia (historically more stable) and redundancy in Caatinga (higher frequency of historical disturbances) regional assemblages, regardless of the inter‐biome differences in species richness. These results were also detected in local assemblages, suggesting that the effect of historical disturbances influences the structure of fish assemblages, both at small and large spatial scales.

Main conclusions

The historical stability in Amazonian fish assemblages may have favoured a higher taxonomic and FRic, as well as greater functional specialization and originality, compared to Caatinga assemblages. Our results reinforce the importance of understanding and evaluating the evolutionary history of ecosystems in order to describe the current functional structure of species assemblages.
Global patterns of dead fine root stocks in forest ecosystems
Authors: Wang Cunguo , Chen Zhao , Brunner Ivano , Zhang Zhen , Zhu Xianjin , Li Jiandong , Yin Hong , Guo Wei , Zhao Tianhong , Zheng Xingbo , Wang Shuqi , Geng Zhenzhen , Shen Si , Jin Daming , Li Mai‐He
Published: April 2018

Aim

Dead fine roots are crucial components of the carbon cycle in global forest ecosystems. Despite their importance, knowledge concerning geographical patterns of dead fine root pools (necromass) and factors influencing their dynamics remain scarce across the globe.

Location

Global.

Methods

We analysed 136 published case studies covering 169 forest sites located throughout the world to identify broad patterns of necromass and biomass (living fine root pools) and to determine the responses to climate, edaphic gradients and stand properties.

Results

W‐shaped pattern of forest necromass with latitude, from the Southern Hemisphere via the equator to the Northern Hemisphere, was observed. Specifically, more necromass was found at both low (tropical forests) and high latitudes (boreal forests), whereas less necromass was found at mid latitudes (temperate forests), which is in line with patterns of carbon stocks in soils at the global scale. Broad‐leaf forests had greater necromass than needle‐leaf forests, and fine root necromass of the two forest types showed opposing trends in response to shifts in mean annual precipitation and different sensitivities to changes in mean annual temperature and edaphic properties (e.g. soil carbon/nitrogen ratio and pH). Necromass increased with soil organic layer thickness and stand age for both forest types.

Main conclusions

The hemispheric symmetrical necromass distribution is likely determined by changes in environmental conditions across latitudes. Different responses of dead fine roots in broad‐leaf and needle‐leaf forests may be caused by their distinct allocation and accumulation of carbon in relation to climate and to edaphic and forest characteristics at the global scale. Our results have important implications for accurate quantification and modelling of forest ecosystem carbon stocks and cycles and for assessments of their sensitivity and stability in a changing climate.
Phylogeography of the widespread spider Nephila clavipes (Araneae: Araneidae) in South America indicates geologically and climatically driven lineage diversification
Authors: Bartoleti Luiz Filipe de Macedo , Peres Elen Arroyo , Fontes Fernanda von Hertwig Mascarenhas , da Silva Márcio José , Solferini Vera Nisaka
Published: April 2018

Aim

Amazonia and Atlantic Rain Forests share a common biogeographical origin and have an interconnected history that includes the drier biomes between them. It is not clear if the establishment of the South American Dry Diagonal promoted isolation between these forests or if connections between them have occurred after this event. We sought to investigate biotic diversification and geographical evolution in these biomes with a phylogeographical study of Nephila clavipes, a rain forest dwelling spider.

Location

South America.

Methods

We collected 320 individuals from 49 sites and sequenced one mitochondrial and two nuclear DNA regions. We analysed the genetic diversity, structure and demography, did phylogenetic inferences, estimated divergence times, inferred ancestral areas and applied a model‐based approach to test competitive hypotheses on the species’ evolution.

Results

An ancient split, coincident with the Central Cordillera final uplift, segregated a Trans‐Andean Colombian lineage from the others. Four lineages occur in Brazil, with a Pleistocene divergence: one in Amazonia, one in the northern and southern Atlantic Forest and two associated with the Dry Diagonal, but also reaching the Southern Atlantic Forest and Amazonia. The biogeographical analysis indicated that some lineages have expanded their ranges along the Pleistocene.

Main conclusions

Pleistocene connections of Amazonia and Atlantic rain forests through the central part of the Cerrado were supported. No phylogeographical break was detected along the Atlantic Forest. Geological and climatic events contributed to lineage diversification in N. clavipes. Studying widely distributed species is primary in unveiling evolutionary patterns in highly complex regions.
Screening of 25 different natural crop protection products against Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Cahenzli F. , Strack T. , Daniel C.
Published: April 2018

Drosophila suzukii is a major pest of soft‐skinned fruits, and insecticides are often used to prevent fruit damage caused by oviposition. As D. suzukii produces many generations per year, repeated insecticide applications are required. Furthermore, D. suzukii attacks ripening and ripe fruits shortly before harvest. Therefore, the use of synthetic insecticides is limited by long pre‐harvest intervals and maximum residue limits. To be able to offer producers immediate and sustainable solutions, we tested 25 natural crop protection products with three different application methods in a laboratory screening. We show that application method is an important factor for the efficacy of the tested products. Of six natural insecticides, only Spinosad was toxic for D. suzukii and reduced the oviposition on treated blueberries. The tested oil products had no control effect and products based on different entomopathogenic fungi and Bacillus thuringiensis rather enhanced oviposition. Mineral products (Kaolin, CaCO3, Ca(OH)2 and clinoptilolith) applied as spray solutions were not toxic, but significantly reduced oviposition on blueberries. We provide the first study in which different application methods have been used to compare numerous, commercially available, natural crop protection products with different modes of action against adult D. suzukii. Our findings provide consultants and producers with important insights for the development of sustainable pest control strategies against D. suzukii.
Seasonal occurrence of amaranth Lepidopteran defoliators and effect of attractants and amaranth lines in their management
Authors: Othim S. T. O. , Kahuthia‐Gathu R. , Akutse K. S. , Foba C. N. , Fiaboe K. K. M.
Published: April 2018

Lepidopteran defoliators are the most important pests of cultivated amaranths causing severe losses in cultivated fields worldwide. Leaf‐webbers, whose larvae fold, web or glue amaranth leaves using their silken webs as they feed and leaf‐worms which cause windowing but do not glue or fold leaves are mainly reported. Sustainable management strategies for these pests are still lacking given the adverse effects of synthetic pesticides. Field experiments were conducted during two seasons at two different sites in Central Kenya, to assess amaranth lepidopteran pests and their natural enemies’ population dynamics, evaluate the efficacy of phenylacetaldehyde (PAA) floral lure as attractant and the effects of three amaranth lines (Abuk1, Abuk2 and Abuk8) on the pests’ abundance and damage. Abundance of leaf‐webbers (p = .537), leaf‐worms (p = 1) and their associated parasitoids (p = .083) did not differ between the dry and wet seasons. The parasitoids Atropha tricolor and Apanteles sp. caused parasitism of 6.2% and 33.3% on Spoladea recurvalis and Choristoneura sp., respectively. PAA incorporated traps attracted moths that were largely unrelated to the damaging larvae observed on the crops with only 0.5% of total trap catches being S. recurvalis. Sub‐sites in which PAA were incorporated had significantly higher number of leaf‐webber larvae on the crops compared to control sub‐sites (p = .014). Amaranth lines studied had significant (p = .007) effect on lepidopteran defoliators’ abundance and damage, with fewer leaf‐webbers and lower severity of damage recorded on Abuk2 compared to Abuk8. The implication of these findings for the control of lepidopteran defoliators in East Africa is discussed.
Dopamine‐Related Genotypes and Physical Activity Change During an Intervention: The Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Study
Authors: Rosso Andrea L. , Metti Andrea L. , Glynn Nancy W. , Boudreau Robert M. , Rejeski W. Jack , Bohnen Nicolaas , Chen Haiying , Johannsen Neil M. , King Abby C. , Manini Todd M. , Pahor Marco , Studenski Stephanie A. , Fragoso Carlos A. Vaz , Rosano Caterina ,   for the LIFE Study Group
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To determine whether intervention‐induced physical activity (PA) changes in sedentary older adults differed according to dopamine‐related genotype.

Design

Randomized clinical trial (Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Trial (2010–13)).

Setting

Multicenter study, 8 U.S. locations.

Participants

Volunteer sample of sedentary adults aged 70 to 89 at risk of disability (N=1635).

Interventions

Structured PA versus health education (HE) for an average of 2.6 years.

Measurements

Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms of dopamine‐related genes (dopamine receptor (DR) D1, DRD2, DRD3, and catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT)) were assessed. Average moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) was calculated using accelerometry (min/d) at baseline and 6, 12, and 24 months. Between‐arm MVPA differences according to genotype and genotype with square root–transformed MVPA separately according to arm were tested, stratified according to race, and adjusted for multiple comparisons.

Results

White participants in the PA arm (n=513) had higher average square root transformed MVPA (4.91±1.91)than those in the HE arm (n=538) (4.51±1.82) (p=.001). Between‐arm differences were greater for DRD2 Met/Met (high dopamine; HE: 4.76±1.80, PA: 5.53±1.60, p=.03) than Val/Val (low dopamine; HE: 4.58±1.92, PA: 4.81±1.83, p=.16); results were similar for COMT. In the PA arm, DRD2 Met/Met was associated with higher average MVPA (5.39±2.00) than Met/Val (4.46±2.51) (p=.01) and Val/Val (4.65±2.71) (p=.01). There were no associations for other genes. Associations were not significant in blacks but followed similar trends.

Conclusion

Higher dopamine signaling may support changes in PA during an intervention. The role of dopamine‐related pathways in promoting PA participation and enhancing response to interventions in sedentary older adults should be studied.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01072500
Comparative thermographic analysis at pre‐ and postcryolipolysis treatment: Clinical case report
Authors: Oliveira Paloma de S. , de Carvalho Mylana A. , Braga Mariana A. , Leite Márcia M. P. , Medrado Alena P.
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Although the exact cryolipolysis mechanisms on adipose tissue remain unknown, the current literature indicates that it may occur a crystallization followed by an ischemic reaction which generates an inflammatory process.

Objective

To evaluate thermographically, the tissue's circulatory pattern of a patient submitted to the cryolipolysis technique and the beginning of the inflammatory process, through variations of temperature gradients and the evaluation of the pains degree of the patient in these same moments.

Methods

A descriptive study, of an interventional case report, performed in an 18‐year‐old patient who had clearly visible fat in the lower abdomen area, with a skin fold greater than 2 centimeters and body mass index ≤ 30 kg/m2.

Results

Comparing the maximum temperatures showed on the last thermography with the pre‐application image, an increase of 0.4°C was observed, which is suggestive of abnormality. Regarding the minimum temperatures verified, there was a significative decrease in the temperature with the procedure, which was observed on the last 5 minutes (ΔT = 9.8°C). However, in 48 hour, the minimum temperature began to recover (ΔT = 0.3°C).

Conclusion

The observed data indicate that there was a significant decrease in the temperature during the cooling phase, whereas in the recovery phase, the inverse was found.
Effects of vitamin E and selenium supplementation on blood lipid peroxidation and cortisol concentration in dairy cows undergoing omentopexy
Authors: Mudron P. , Rehage J.
Published: April 2018

Twenty dairy cows with left abomasal displacement were used to investigate the effects of vitamin E and selenium treatment on thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and blood cortisol in dairy cows stressed by omentopexy. The cows were randomly divided into two groups. Ten hours before surgery 6 g of DL‐α‐tocopheryl acetate (6 mg/kg) and 67 mg of natrium selenite (0.1 mg/kg) in volume of 40 ml (Vitaselen®) were administered subcutaneously to 10 cows; the control animals (n = 10) received an equivalent volume of injectable water (40 ml). The injection of vitamin E and selenium produced a rapid rise (p < .05) in blood α‐tocopherol and selenium concentrations. The serum vitamin E increased several times 10 hr after vitamin E and Se injection and raised continuously to the highest average concentration 21.6 mg/L at hr 24 after the surgery. The highest selenium concentration was seen 10 hr after selenium administration with holding the increased concentrations in comparison with initial ones during the whole study. Two‐way ANOVA did not show significant treatment effect on plasma concentrations TBARS in the study. The plasma concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances reached the maximum value of 0.18 μmol/L in the control group 5 hr after the surgery. Twenty‐four hours after the surgery, the TBARS values returned to the initial ones. Serum cortisol increased in both groups after surgery. The highest cortisol concentrations were reached at 1 hr after surgery in the experimental and control group (56.7 ± 28.8 and 65.3 ± 26.1 μg/L respectively). A return to the levels similar to the initial ones was recognized 24 hr after the surgery. The ANOVA revealed a significant effect of vitamin E and selenium injection on plasma cortisol (p < .05). In conclusion, we have demonstrated that abdominal surgery resulted in typical stress changes with no significant effects of a single vitamin E/Se injection on blood lipid peroxidation. In addition, a weaker cortisol response to the abdominal surgery was recognized in animals treated with vitamin E and selenium.
Ceres’ spectral link to carbonaceous chondrites—Analysis of the dark background materials
Authors: Schäfer Michael , Schäfer Tanja , Izawa Matthew R. M. , Cloutis Edward A. , Schröder Stefan E. , Roatsch Thomas , Preusker Frank , Stephan Katrin , Matz Klaus‐Dieter , Raymond Carol A. , Russell Christopher T.
Published: April 2018

Ceres’ surface has commonly been linked with carbonaceous chondrites (CCs) by ground‐based telescopic observations, because of its low albedo, flat to red‐sloped spectra in the visible and near‐infrared (VIS/NIR) wavelength region, and the absence of distinct absorption bands, though no currently known meteorites provide complete spectral matches to Ceres. Spatially resolved data of the Dawn Framing Camera (FC) reveal a generally dark surface covered with bright spots exhibiting reflectance values several times higher than Ceres’ background. In this work, we investigated FC data from High Altitude Mapping Orbit (HAMO) and Ceres eXtended Juling (CXJ) orbit (~140 m/pixel) for global spectral variations. We found that the cerean surface mainly differs by spectral slope over the whole FC wavelength region (0.4–1.0 μm). Areas exhibiting slopes <−10% μm−1 constitute only ~3% of the cerean surface and mainly occur in the bright material in and around young craters, whereas slopes ≥−10% μm−1 occur on more than 90% of the cerean surface; the latter being denoted as Ceres’ background material in this work. FC and Visible and Infrared Spectrometer (VIR) spectra of this background material were compared to the suite of CCs spectrally investigated so far regarding their VIS/NIR region and 2.7 μm absorption, as well as their reflectance at 0.653 μm. This resulted in a good match to heated CI Ivuna (heated to 200–300 °C) and a better match for CM1 meteorites, especially Moapa Valley. This possibly indicates that the alteration of CM2 to CM1 took place on Ceres.
Behavioral and psychosocial factors associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents
Authors: Lee GyuYoung , Ham Ok Kyung
Published: April 2018

Suicidal ideation poses a serious threat to the well‐being of adolescents and is the strongest risk factor for suicide. Indeed, Korea ranks first among Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries regarding the age‐standardized suicide rates. In the present study, we examined multiple levels of factors associated with the suicidal ideation of adolescents in Korea by applying the Ecological Models of Health Behavior. A cross‐sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 860 adolescents. The instruments included the Beck Depression Inventory and the Adolescent Mental Health and Problem Behavior Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. Sixteen percent of participants reported suicidal ideation. Intrapersonal (sleep disturbance, Internet game addiction, destructive behavior, and depressive symptoms) and interpersonal factors (family conflicts and peer victimization) were associated with suicidal ideation. Because multiple factors were associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents, both intrapersonal (sleep disturbance, Internet game addiction, and depression) and interpersonal factors (family conflicts and peer problems) should be considered in the development of suicide‐prevention programs. These programs could include campaigns changing the norms (permissive attitudes toward school violence) and the development of strict and rigorous school non‐violence policies.
Phenomenology and qualitative research: Amedeo Giorgi's hermetic epistemology
Authors: Paley John
Published: April 2018

Amedeo Giorgi has published a review article devoted to Phenomenology as Qualitative Research: A Critical Analysis of Meaning Attribution. However, anyone reading this article, but unfamiliar with the book, will get a distorted view of what it is about, whom it is addressed to, what it seeks to achieve and how it goes about presenting its arguments. Not mildly distorted, in need of the odd correction here and there, but systematically misrepresented. The article is a study in misreading. Giorgi misreads the book's mise en scène; he misreads its narrative arc; he misreads individual arguments; he misreads short, simple passages; he misreads the philosophy of the science literature; he misreads his own data; he misreads the title; he misreads the blurb; he misreads the acknowledgements. In addition, there are serious failures of scholarship (ironically, he demonstrates how unacquainted he is with the relevant literature at the very moment he is accusing me of being ill‐informed). In this reply, I provide several examples of these errors, but my primary aim is to understand why Giorgi's misreading is as ubiquitous as it is. To this end, I explain his mistakes by reference to the hermetic epistemology within which he is confined.
Early salivary changes in multiple myeloma patients undergoing autologous HSCT
Authors: van Leeuwen SJM , Proctor GB , Potting CMJ , ten Hoopen S , van Groningen LFJ , Bronkhorst EM , Blijlevens NMA , Huysmans MCDNJM
Published: April 2018

Objective

One explorative observational study in two parts was performed to examine early salivary changes in relation to oral mucositis (OM) in multiple myeloma patients treated with high‐dose melphalan and autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). As cryotherapy was introduced after part A as regular care, its effect on OM could be evaluated.

Methods

Unstimulated whole‐mouth saliva (UWS) and stimulated whole‐mouth saliva (SWS) were collected, and OM was scored with the Oral Mucositis Nursing Instrument (OMNI) at days −3, 0, 4, 7, 11 and 14 after HSCT. Salivary flow rate, total protein (BCA), mucin 5B, albumin (western blot), total IgA, lactoferrin and myeloperoxidase levels (ELISA) were determined.

Results

Trends of decreasing UWS and SWS flow rates and total IgA levels were observed. At days 7 and 11, increases in lactoferrin and albumin levels were found in UWS and SWS. A positive correlation was found between OMNI scores and albumin and lactoferrin levels in SWS (R2 = .56, p = .029 and R2 = .49, p = .043, respectively). In part B, cryotherapy significantly lowered peak OMNI scores.

Conclusion

Compositional changes in saliva reflecting inflammation were found in the first days after HSCT, and the use of cryotherapy in the second part was associated with decreased OM severity.
ACE inhibition in goats under fixed‐time artificial insemination protocol increases the pregnancy rate and twin births
Authors: Fernandes Neto VP , Silva MNN , Costa AS , Kunkel D , Júnior AS , Feitosa LCS , Muratori MCS , Costa APR
Published: April 2018

Contents

To assess the effect of the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition on the efficiency of the fixed‐time artificial insemination (TAI), 69 goats were divided randomly into two groups: enalapril (n = 35) and control (n = 34). In the experiment, all animals underwent the protocol of fixed‐time artificial insemination for 12 days. Enalapril group received enalapril maleate dissolved in saline (Enalapril, Lab Teuto Ltda) subcutaneously at the following doses: 0.2 mg/kg/day in D0‐D2; 0.3 mg/kg/day in D3‐D6 and 0.4 mg/kg/day in D7‐D11. The control group received the corresponding volume of 0.9% saline solution. We performed a single insemination 36 hr after sponge removal using frozen semen from two adult male goats with recognized fertility. The ultrasound pregnancy diagnosis was 30 days after the artificial insemination (AI). There was significant increase in pregnancy rates and twinning as well as a decrease in foetal loss in animals receiving enalapril (p < .01). The use of ACE inhibitors during the TAI protocol was shown to be a promising alternative to increase the efficiency of such reproductive biotechnology.