bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signatures of insecticide selection in the genome of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Duneau David , Sun Haina , Revah Jonathan , Miguel Keri San , Kunerth Henry D. , Caldas Ian V. , Messer Philipp W. , Scott Jeffrey G. , Buchon Nicolas
Published: March 2018

Resistance to insecticides has evolved in multiple insect species, leading to increased application rates and even control failures. Understanding the genetic basis of insecticide resistance is fundamental for mitigating its impact on crop production and disease control. We performed a GWAS approach with the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel (DGRP) to identify the mutations involved in resistance to two widely used classes of insecticides: organophosphates (OPs, parathion) and pyrethroids (deltamethrin). Most variation in parathion resistance was associated with mutations in the target gene Ace, while most variation in deltamethrin resistance was associated with mutations in Cyp6a23, a gene encoding a detoxification enzyme never previously associated with resistance. A “nested GWAS” further revealed the contribution of other loci: Dscam1 and trpl were implicated in resistance to parathion, but only in lines lacking Wolbachia. Cyp6a17, the paralogous gene of Cyp6a23, and CG7627, an ATP-binding cassette transporter, were implicated in deltamethrin resistance. We observed signatures of recent selective sweeps at all of these resistance loci and confirmed that the soft sweep at Ace is indeed driven by the identified resistance mutations. Analysis of allele frequencies in additional population samples revealed that most resistance mutations are segregating across the globe, but that frequencies can vary substantially among populations. Altogether, our data reveal that the widely used OP and pyrethroid insecticides imposed a strong selection pressure on natural insect populations. However, it remains unclear why, in Drosophila, resistance evolved due to changes in the target site for OPs, but due to a detoxification enzyme for pyrethroids.

Article summary

Insecticides are widely used to control pests and insect vectors of disease. In response to the strong selection pressure exerted by insecticides, resistance has evolved in most insect species. We identified few genes present in several Drosophila melanogaster natural populations implicated in the evolution of resistance against two insecticides widely used today. We identified primary and secondary genes involved in the resistance. Surprisingly, resistance evolved in the target site for one insecticide, but was associated to changes in a novel detoxification enzyme for the other insecticide.
Molecular Modeling Suggests Homologous 2-APB Binding Sites in Connexins 26 and 32
Authors: Comollo Thomas W.
Published: March 2018

Connexins are the transmembrane pore forming proteins that participate in gap junctions; connections between cells that certain nutrients and other molecules can pass through. There are several kinds of connexins (Cx) named based on their weight in kilodaltons. 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) is a small molecule inhibitor (SMI) of Cx26 and Cx32. Knock out of Cx32 and also blockage of Cx32 by 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl (2-APB) has been suspected to be beneficial in not only, drug induced liver toxicity, but also in blocking the propagation of an inflammatory signal. If the binding site of 2-APB can be determined, virtual screening for additional, perhaps more specific Cx26 and Cx32 blocking SMI can be carried out. Our modeling suggests that 2-APB binds to similar sites inside the pores of Cx26 and Cx32. Here 2-APB interacts with the conserved ILE82 and THR86. These residues hold the same numbering in both CX26 and CX32. This suggests these residues have a high level of conservation and importance Further virtual screening results imply molecules with similar activity on Cx26 and Cx32 as 2-APB can be found.

Background

2-APB has been shown to block Cx26 and Cx32.

Results

Docking of 2-APB to Cx26 and CX32 finds conserved binding site in pore. Suggestive that 2-APB has conserved homologous binding site on Cx26 and Cx32.

Conclusion

Mutational studies of 2APB and ILE82 and THR86 in Cx26 and Cx32 appear warranted. Additional virtual screening could yield 2-APB analogs that act on Cx26 and Cx32.

Significance

Potential for developing gap junction blocking compounds.
Altered function of the glutamate aspartate transporter GLAST in glioblastoma
Authors: Corbetta Cristina , Di Ianni Natalia , Bruzzone Maria Grazia , Patanè Monica , Pollo Bianca , Cantini Gabriele , Cominelli Manuela , Zucca Ileana , Pisati Federica , Poliani Pietro Luigi , Finocchiaro Gaetano , Pellegatta Serena
Published: March 2018

In glioma patients, high levels of glutamate can cause brain edema and seizures. GLAST, a glutamate-aspartate transporter expressed by astrocytes with a role in glutamate uptake, is highly expressed on the plasma membrane of glioblastoma (GBM) cells, and its expression significantly correlates with shortened patient survival. Here, it was demonstrated that inhibition of GLAST expression limited the progression and invasion of GBM xenografts. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to measure glutamate in GLAST-expressing gliomas showing that these tumors exhibit increased glutamate concentration. Despite their GLAST expression, GBM stem-like cells (GSCs) released rather than took up glutamate due to their lack of Na+/K+-ATPase. Overexpression of Na+/K+-ATPase in these cells restored glutamate uptake and induced apoptosis. The therapeutic relevance of targeting GLAST in gliomas was assessed using the inhibitor UCPH-101. In glioma-bearing mice, a single intratumoral injection of UCPH-101 significantly increased survival by decreasing GLAST expression and inducing apoptosis. Thus, GLAST has a novel role in GBM that appears to have crucial relevance in glutamate trafficking and may thus be a new therapeutic target.
Impact of Sex and APOE Status on Spatial Navigation in Pre-symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Coughlan G. , Coutrot A. , Khondoker M. , Minihane A. , Spiers H. , Hornberger M.
Published: March 2018

INTRODUCTION

Spatial navigation is emerging as a critical factor in identifying pre-symptomatic Alzheimer pathophysiology, with the impact of sex and APOE status on spatial navigation yet to be established.

METHODS

We estimate the effects of sex on navigation performance in 27,308 individuals (50-70 years [benchmark population]) by employing a novel game-based approach to cognitive assessment using Sea Hero Quest. The effects of APOE genotype and sex on game performance was further examined in a smaller lab-based cohort (n = 44).

RESULTS

Benchmark data showed an effect of sex on wayfinding distance, duration and path integration. Importantly in the lab cohort, performance on allocentric wayfinding levels was reduced in ε4 carriers compared to ε3 carriers, and effect of sex became negligible when APOE status was controlled for. To demonstrate the robustness of this effect and to ensure the quality of data obtained through unmonitored at-home use of the Sea Hero Quest game, post-hoc analysis was carried out to compare performance by the benchmark population to the monitored lab-cohort.

DISCUSSION

APOE ε4 midlife carriers exhibit changes in navigation pattern before any symptom onset. This supports the move towards spatial navigation as an early cognitive marker and demonstrates for the first time how the utility of large-scale digital cognitive assessment may hold future promise for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, benchmark findings suggest that gender differences may need to be considered when determining the classification criteria for spatial navigational deficits in midlife adults.
Thrombospondins 1 and 2 affect lysyl oxidase protein and collagen matrix maturation in cortical bone of growing male and female mice via non-redundant pathways
Authors: Shearer Dylan , Mervis Madison O , Manley Eugene , Reddy Anita B , Alford Andrea I
Published: March 2018

Thrombospondin-2-deficiency is associated with impaired matrix maturation in osteoblasts and cortical bone of growing mice. Here we addressed the possibility that lysyl oxidase (LOX) contributes to this phenotype. After overnight serum starvation, pro-LOX levels were elevated compared to wild-type in marrow-derived osteoblasts from male and female TSP2−/− mice. The liberated LOX pro-peptide (LOPP) was faintly visible in serum-starved cultures. When serum was maintained, pro-LOX content was not affected by TSP2 status, but relative LOPP levels were elevated in cultures from female TSP2−/− mice. Two isoforms of pro-LOX at 75 kDa and 50 kDa were detected in detergent soluble protein extracts of diaphyseal tissue from growing mice. In female mice, TSP2 status did not affect detergent soluble pro-LOX content or the relative contribution of each band to the total signal. Instead, levels of the 50 kDa band were reduced in female TSP1−/− samples. In male diaphyseal tissue, total pro-LOX content and the contribution each isoform made to the total signal was not affected by TSP1 or TSP2 status. We did not detect 32 kDa mature LOX in detergent soluble preparations of cells or whole bone tissue. Detergent insoluble hydroxyproline content was reduced in diaphyseal tissue obtained from female TSP1−/− and TSP2−/− mice. In male diaphyseal cortical samples, TSP2 but not TSP1 deficiency was associated with reduced insoluble hydroxyproline content. Our data suggest that the trimeric thrombospondins contribute to bone matrix quality via non-redundant mechanisms that are dependent on the unique tissue milieu of the male and female skeleton.
Lipid utilization in skeletal muscle cells is modulated in vitro and in vivo by specific miRNAs
Authors: Chemello Francesco , Grespi Francesca , Zulian Alessandra , Cancellara Pasqua , Hebert-Chatelain Etienne , Martini Paolo , Bean Camilla , Alessio Enrico , Ferrazza Ruggero , Laveder Paolo , Guella Graziano , Reggiani Carlo , Romualdi Chiara , Bernardi Paolo , Scorrano Luca , Cagnin Stefano , Lanfranchi Gerolamo
Published: March 2018

Skeletal muscle is composed by different myofiber types that can preferentially use glycolysis or lipids for ATP production. How fuel preference is specified in these post-mitotic cells is unknown. Here we show that miRNAs are important players in defining the myofiber metabolic profile. mRNA and miRNA signatures of all myofiber types obtained at single cell level unveiled fiber-specific regulatory networks and identified two master miRNAs that coordinately control myofiber fuel preference and mitochondrial morphology. Our work provides a complete and integrated myofiber type-specific catalogue of genes and miRNAs expressed and establishes miR-27a-3p and miR-142-3p as key regulators of lipid utilization in skeletal muscle.

HIGHLIGHTS

Transcriptional networking in single cells distinguished myofibers based on glycolytic or oxidative metabolism, regulated by specific miRNAs

miR-27a-3p and −142-3p influence mitochondrial morphology

miR-27a-3p improves lipid utilization and increases glycogen storage both in vitro and in vivo

miR-142-3p reduces lipid utilization both in vitro and in vivo
Mapping transcription factor occupancy using minimal numbers of cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tosti Luca , Ashmore James , Tan Boon Siang Nicholas , Carbone Benedetta , Mistri Tapan K. , Wilson Valerie , Tomlinson Simon R. , Kaji Keisuke
Published: March 2018

The identification of transcription factor (TF) binding sites in the genome is critical to understanding gene regulatory networks (GRNs). While ChIP-seq is commonly used to identify TF targets, it requires specific ChIP-grade antibodies and high cell numbers, often limiting its applicability. DNA adenine methyltransferase identification (DamID), developed and widely used in Drosophila, is a distinct technology to investigate protein–DNA interactions. Unlike ChIP-seq, it does not require antibodies, precipitation steps, or chemical protein–DNA crosslinking, but to date it has been seldom used in mammalian cells due to technical limitations. Here we describe an optimized DamID method coupled with next-generation sequencing (DamID-seq) in mouse cells and demonstrate the identification of the binding sites of two TFs, POU5F1 (also known as OCT4) and SOX2, in as few as 1000 embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and neural stem cells (NSCs), respectively. Furthermore, we have applied this technique in vivo for the first time in mammals. POU5F1 DamID-seq in the gastrulating mouse embryo at 7.5 d post coitum (dpc) successfully identified multiple POU5F1 binding sites proximal to genes involved in embryo development, neural tube formation, and mesoderm-cardiac tissue development, consistent with the pivotal role of this TF in post-implantation embryo. This technology paves the way to unprecedented investigation of TF–DNA interactions and GRNs in specific cell types of limited availability in mammals, including in vivo samples.
Supramolecular hydrogen-bonding patterns in salts of the antifolate drugs trimethoprim and pyrimethamine
Authors: Swinton Darious Robert , Thomas Muthiah Packianathan , Perdih Franc
Published: March 2018

Nine salts of the antifolate drugs trimethoprim and pyrimethamine, namely, trimethoprimium [or 2,4-diamino-5-(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyl)pyrimidin-1-ium] 2,5-dichlorothiophene-3-carboxylate monohydrate (TMPDCTPC, 1:1), C14H19N4O3
+·C5HCl2O2S−, (I), trimethoprimium 3-bromothiophene-2-carboxylate monohydrate, (TMPBTPC, 1:1:1), C14H19N4O3
+·C5H2BrO2S−·H2O, (II), trimethoprimium 3-chlorothiophene-2-carboxylate monohydrate (TMPCTPC, 1:1:1), C14H19N4O3
+·C5H2ClO2S−·H2O, (III), trimethoprimium 5-methylthiophene-2-carboxylate monohydrate (TMPMTPC, 1:1:1), C14H19N4O3
+·C6H5O2S−·H2O, (IV), trimethoprimium anthracene-9-carboxylate sesquihydrate (TMPAC, 2:2:3), C14H19N4O3
+·C15H9O2
−·1.5H2O, (V), pyrimethaminium [or 2,4-diamino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-6-ethylpyrimidin-1-ium] 2,5-dichlorothiophene-3-carboxylate (PMNDCTPC, 1:1), C12H14ClN4
+·C5HCl2O2S−, (VI), pyrimethaminium 5-bromothiophene-2-carboxylate (PMNBTPC, 1:1), C12H14ClN4
+·C5H2BrO2S−, (VII), pyrimethaminium anthracene-9-carboxylate ethanol monosolvate monohydrate (PMNAC, 1:1:1:1), C12H14ClN4
+·C15H9O2
−·C2H5OH·H2O, (VIII), and bis(pyrimethaminium) naphthalene-1,5-disulfonate (PMNNSA, 2:1), 2C12H14ClN4
+·C10H6O6S2
2−, (IX), have been prepared and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In all the crystal structures, the pyrimidine N1 atom is protonated. In salts (I)–(III) and (VI)–(IX), the 2-aminopyrimidinium cation interacts with the corresponding anion via a pair of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, generating the robust R
2
2(8) supramolecular heterosynthon. In salt (IV), instead of forming the R
2
2(8) heterosynthon, the carboxylate group bridges two pyrimidinium cations via N—H...O hydrogen bonds. In salt (V), one of the carboxylate O atoms bridges the N1—H group and a 2-amino H atom of the pyrimidinium cation to form a smaller R
2
1(6) ring instead of the R
2
2(8) ring. In salt (IX), the sulfonate O atoms mimic the role of carboxylate O atoms in forming an R
2
2(8) ring motif. In salts (II)–(IX), the pyrimidinium cation forms base pairs via a pair of N—H...N hydrogen bonds, generating a ring motif [R
2
2(8) homosynthon]. Compounds (II) and (III) are isomorphous. The quadruple DDAA (D = hydrogen-bond donor and A = hydrogen-bond acceptor) array is observed in (I). In salts (II)–(IV) and (VI)–(IX), quadruple DADA arrays are present. In salts (VI) and (VII), both DADA and DDAA arrays co-exist. The crystal structures are further stabilized by π–π stacking interactions [in (I), (V) and (VII)–(IX)], C—H...π interactions [in (IV)–(V) and (VII)–(IX)], C—Br...π interactions [in (II)] and C—Cl...π interactions [in (I), (III) and (VI)]. Cl...O and Cl...Cl halogen-bond interactions are present in (I) and (VI), with distances and angles of 3.0020 (18) and 3.5159 (16) Å, and 165.56 (10) and 154.81 (11)°, respectively.
High-resolution crystal structure ofStreptococcus agalactiaeglyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase
Authors: Zhou Kang , Fan Xiaojiao , Li Yuelong , Zhang Caiying , Jin Tengchuan
Published: March 2018

Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a multifunctional enzyme that plays critical roles in bacterial pathogenesis in some pathogenic bacteria. In this study, the crystal structure of group B streptococcus GAPDH was determined at 1.36 Å resolution. The structure contained an asymmetric mixed holo tetramer, with two NAD ligands bound to two protomers. Further structural analysis identified interesting phosphate ion-binding sites, which shed light on its catalytic mechanism.
Crystal structure of 2,3-bis(4-methylphenyl)benzo[g]quinoxaline
Authors: Kim Young-Inn , Yun Seong-Jae , Kang Sung Kwon
Published: March 2018

The title compound, C26H20N2, was obtained during a search for new π-extended ligands with the potential to generate efficient phosphors with iridium(III) for organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs). The benzoquinoxaline ring system is almost planar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.076 Å). A pseudo-twofold rotation axis runs through the midpoints of the C2—C3 and C9—C10 bonds. The two phenyl rings are twisted relative to the benzoquinoxaline ring system, making dihedral angles of 53.91 (4) and 36.86 (6)°. In the crystal, C—H...π (arene) interactions link the molecules, but no π–π interactions between aromatic rings are observed.
[1,4-Bis(4-methoxyphenyl)but-3-yn-2-yl](cyano)methylamine
Authors: Yousufuddin Muhammed , Morales Ruth , Cassis Waleed , Brown Gary W. , Singh Ravi P. , Lovely Carl J.
Published: March 2018

The title compound, C20H20N2O2, crystallizes in theP21/cspace group with one molecule in the asymmetric unit. It contains an amine with a cyano substituent and hence is classified as a cyanamide. One terminal CH3group is disordered over two positions with occupancies of 0.874 (9)/0.126 (9).
2-Aminoanilinium benzene-1,2-diaminium tris(4-methylbenzene-1-sulfonate)
Authors: Amirthakumar C. , Pandi P. , Kumar R. Mohan , Chakkaravarthi G.
Published: March 2018

In the title molecular salt, C6H10N22+·C6H9N2+·3C7H7O3S−, one of the cations is doubly protonated and one is singly protonated with charge balance achieved by three sulfonate anions. The crystal packing features N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds. The ions are arranged into a two-dimensional network along the (010) plane and the structure is further consolidated by weak C—H...π interactions.
Children with cochlear implants in infancy: predictors of early vocabulary
Authors: Bavin Edith L. , Sarant Julia , Leigh Greg , Prendergast Luke , Busby Peter , Peterson Candida
Published: March 2018

Background

Language outcomes for children with cochlear implants (CIs) vary widely, even for those implanted before 2 years of age. Identifying the main influencing factors that account for some of the variability is important in order to provide information to guide appropriate clinical and intervention services for young children with CIs. However, there is limited research focusing on the predictors of early vocabulary development for children implanted in infancy.

Aims

To identify significant predictors of vocabulary (12–15 months post‐implant) for a sample of 33 children with CIs, the majority implanted between 6 and 10 months of age, drawing on predictors of vocabulary reported for children with normal hearing. Of particular interest was the impact of pre‐implant development and use of gestures.

Methods & Procedures

Children with severe to profound hearing loss, and no other known disabilities, were recruited from CI clinics in Australia before receiving their CIs. Subscales from the Bayley Scales‐III (receptive and expressive communication, gross and fine motor, and cognition) were used to assess their development at that time. Using the Macarthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventory (Words and Gestures) we documented the children's (1) use of gestures at six data‐collection times 3 months apart; and (2) vocabulary at the last three time points. Time since implant and time to consistent use of the CIs were also included as potential predictors. Data were analysed using generalized linear models, assuming a negative binomial response with a log‐link function. Stepwise variables selection was followed to retain a smaller number of the covariates.

Outcomes & Results

A year after implantation, the significant predictors identified for vocabulary were pre‐implant receptive communication and early gesture use. Together with fine motor and cognitive skills, these two variables were also significant predictors of vocabulary 3 months later. With maternal education entered into the models, higher vocabulary scores were significantly associated with higher maternal education 12 months post‐implantation, but not 15 months.

Conclusions & Implications

Pre‐implant abilities are important in explaining some variability in the early vocabulary of infants with CIs, together with their use of early gestures post‐implantation. That is, having a non‐verbal means to express a concept can assist in their development of oral vocabulary. Identifying strategies to help develop fine motor skills for infants with CIs, and encouraging their use of gestures to communicate their needs/intentions, are likely to be of benefit.
Speculative futures at the bottom of the pyramid
Authors: Dolan Catherine , Rajak Dinah
Published: March 2018

Celebrated as creative, flexible catalysts of inclusive capitalism, urban youth are central to bottom‐of‐the‐pyramid (BoP) models of development, which set out to repurpose the jobless as entrepreneurs in the making. We explore the multiple (at times conflicting) temporalities – the practices, technologies, and representations of time – which figure in a BoP initiative offering entrepreneurial opportunities to unemployed youth in Nairobi's slums: from the invocation of clock‐time discipline to the professional time of entrepreneurial subjectivities and the enchantments of the not‐yet. But the appeal of BoP, we suggest, does not turn either on the here‐and‐now of survival or on an impossible pipe dream of prosperity, but rather resides firmly in the medium term: a foreseeable future of modest desires, which nonetheless remain tantalizingly just out of reach for most. By examining how these temporal conflicts play out in attempts to fashion a cadre of self‐willed, aspiring entrepreneurs, we reveal the limits to entrepreneurial agency, and the contradictions inherent in the mission of (self‐)empowerment through enterprise upon which the ideology of inclusive markets is built.
A ‘kinship anthropology of politics’? Interest, the collective self, and kinship in Argentine unions★
Authors: Lazar Sian
Published: March 2018

In this article I argue for a kinship anthropology of politics, understood as a focus on the day‐to‐day imbrications of kinship and politics in a given political space, and the implications of that for the construction of political subjects. I describe kinship within shop‐floor‐level trade union delegations of state employees in Argentina in three different ways: first, languages of kinship mobilized to describe political allegiance and dispositions, especially inheritance; second, family connections in recruitment and activism; and, third, practices of kinning as relatedness. The combination of these three kinship modes creates the union as kin group, and enables it to act on the world politically in order to transform it.
Health status and labour market outcome: Empirical evidence from Australia
Authors: Damrongplasit Kannika , Hsiao Cheng , Zhao Xueyan
Published: March 2018

This paper uses eight waves of Australia Household, Income and Labour Dynamics data to study the issues of state dependence and the short‐run and long‐run response to health shocks on the labour market. We consider six alternative panel data binary dependent variable models with different ways of modelling labour market dynamics and individual heterogeneity. We find that the key results with regard to labour market dependence and the impacts of health shocks are sensitive to model specification and pooling of male and female samples with differences as large as sixfold. Specification analysis is conducted and favours the dynamic fixed effects logit model for separate male and female samples. Methods for evaluating dynamic response paths to a one‐time health shock for binary outcomes are also suggested and results are presented.
The (ir)relevance of unemployment for labour market policy attitudes and welfare state attitudes
Authors: WEHL NADJA
Published: March 2018

Typically, associations between being unemployed and policy attitudes are explained with reference to economic self‐interest considerations of the unemployed. Preferences for labour market policies (LMP) and egalitarian preferences are the prime example and the focus of this study. Its aim is to challenge this causal self‐interest argument: self‐interest consistent associations of unemployment with policy preferences are neither necessarily driven by self‐interest nor necessarily causal. To that end, this article first confronts the self‐interest argument with a broader perspective on attitudes. Given that predispositions (e.g., value orientations) are stable and influence more specific policy attitudes, it is at least questionable whether people change their policy attitudes simply because they get laid off. Second, the article derives a non‐causal argument behind associations between unemployment and policy attitudes, arguing that these might be spurious associations driven by individuals’ socioeconomic background. After all, the entire socioeconomic background of a person is simultaneously related to both the risk of getting unemployed (‘selection into unemployment’) and distinct political socialisation experiences from early childhood onwards. Third, this article uses methods inspired by a counterfactual account on causality to test the non‐causal claims. Analyses are carried out using the fourth wave of the European Social Survey and applying entropy balancing to control for selection bias. In only two of the 31 analysed countries do unemployment effects on egalitarian orientations remain significant after controlling for selection bias. The same holds for effects on active LMP attitudes with the exception of six countries. Attitudes towards passive LMP are to some degree an exception since effects remain in a third of the countries. Robustness checks and Bayes factor replications showing evidence for the absence of unemployment effects support the general impression from these initial analyses. After discussing this article's results and limitations, its broader implications are considered. On the one hand, the article offers a new perspective on the conceptualisation and measurement of unemployment risk. On the other hand, its theoretical argument, as well as its treatment of the resulting selection bias, can be broadly applied. Thus, this article can contribute to many other research questions regarding the (ir)relevance of individual life events for political attitudes and political behaviour.
Chemical Imaging of Cyanoacrylate‐Fumed Fingerprints by Matrix‐assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging,
Authors: O'Neill Kelly C. , Hinners Paige , Lee Young Jin
Published: March 2018

For new techniques to be incorporated into forensic science, they must be compatible with current practices. Here, cyanoacrylate fuming, a common development technique for latent fingerprints, is studied for its compatibility with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) for chemical imaging of latent fingerprints. Half of a fingerprint was fumed while the other half was not; then, the changes in chemical composition and signal intensity were compared with MALDI‐MS imaging. No evidence was found that fingerprint compounds are chemically altered by fuming or their signal intensities affected. The only exceptions were significant signal loss for quaternary ammonium compounds from hygiene products and moderate signal loss for tertiary amine compounds. This result is in striking contrast with the previous attempts by others, which is attributed to the difference in instrumentation.
Developmental inhibition of Drosophila suzukii by ionizing radiation
Authors: Kim Junheon , Kim Jeongmin , Lee Yeon Jeong , Park Chung Gyoo
Published: March 2018

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) has emerged as a major invasive insect pest of small berry fruits in the Americas and Europe since the late 2000s. Thus, phytosanitary treatment of commodities for export is imperative to prevent the movement of viable SWD to newer areas. In the present study, all developmental stages of SWD were irradiated with different doses of gamma and electron beam radiation to assess developmental inhibition to identify potential quarantine doses of the radiations. Ionizing radiation induced developmental inhibition of all stages of SWD. The effective doses for 99% inhibition (ED99) of hatching, pupariation, and adult emergence from irradiated eggs for gamma radiation were 882, 395 and 39 Gy, respectively, compared with 2849, 687, and 41 Gy, respectively, for electron beam radiation. The ED99 for inhibition of pupariation and adult emergence in irradiated larvae were 703 and 47 Gy, respectively, for gamma radiation, and 619 and 33 Gy, respectively, for electron beam radiation. Pupal irradiation did not completely inhibit adult emergence, even at 300 Gy. However, irradiation with ≥100 Gy of puparia induced adult sterility, with no egg production at all. The ED99 for inhibition of F1 egg hatchability from adults irradiated with gamma radiation and electron beam radiation was estimated to be 424 and 125 Gy, respectively. The results of the present study suggest that gamma radiation and electron beam radiation are alternatives for phytosanitary treatment. Irradiation with 100 Gy could be suggested as a potential dose for egg, larval, and pupal quarantine treatment of SWD.
Activity of glutathione S‐transferase and esterase enzymes in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) after exposure to entomopathogenic fungi
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Freed Shoaib , Muhammad Saleh , Ashraf Muhammad Zubair , Khan Muhammad Bismillah
Published: March 2018

Helicoverpa armigera, a polyphagous insect of crops and vegetables, is acquiring resistance against many commercial insecticides. The present study shows variations in the activity of two detoxification enzymes, namely esterase and glutathione S‐transferase (GST), in H. armigera after exposure to different isolates of entomopathogenic fungi. After treatment of larvae with the different isolates (Day 0), samples were collected on three days (Days 3, 5 and 7) for enzyme analysis. High GST activity was found in samples of hemolymph, intestine and fat bodies of H. armigera following treatment with Beauveria bassiana (isolate Bb‐08), Metarhizium anisopliae (isolates Ma‐11.1 and Ma‐4.1), and Isaria fumosorosea (isolates If‐02 and If‐2.3). High esterase activity was recorded in samples of the intestine and fat bodies on various days after treatment, whereas increased esterase activity in hemolymph was noted only in samples from Day 5 after treatment with M. anisopliae (Ma‐4.1). The detection of high GST and esterase activity demonstrates the possibility of the development of resistance against these microbial control agents in H. armigera.
An independent validation study of loci associated with nematode resistance in sheep
Authors: Keane O. M. , Hanrahan J. P. , McRae K. M. , Good B.
Published: March 2018

Gastrointestinal nematode infection is a constraint on sheep production worldwide. Selective breeding programmes to enhance resistance to nematode infection are currently being implemented in a number of countries. Identification of loci associated with resistance to infection or causative mutations for resistance would enable more effective selection. Loci associated with indicator traits for nematode resistance has been identified in previous studies. In this study, Scottish Blackface, Texel and Suffolk lambs were used to validate the effects at eight genomic regions previously associated with nematode resistance (OAR3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 21). No SNP was significantly associated with nematode resistance at the region‐wide level but seven SNPs in three of the regions (OAR4, 12, 14) were nominally associated with trichostrongyle egg count in this study and six of these were also significant when fitted as single SNP effects. Nematodirus egg count was nominally associated with SNPs on OAR3, 4, 7 and 12.
Analysis of genetic relatedness among Indian cattle (Bos indicus) using genotyping‐by‐sequencing markers
Authors: Malik A. A. , Sharma R. , Ahlawat S. , Deb R. , Negi M. S. , Tripathi S. B.
Published: March 2018

Genetic relatedness of 24 animals belonging to seven Indian cattle breeds was studied using high throughput genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) markers.GBSproduced 93.6 million reads with an average of about 3.9 million reads per animal. A total of 107 488SNPs were identified in these individuals. When only oneSNPper read was considered, a total of 60 261SNPs representing independent reads were identified with an averageSNP‐to‐SNPdistance of 45 kb across the bovine reference genome. About 24% of theGBS‐SNPmarkers were more than 100 kb apart. Of these, 58 322SNPs mapped to autosomes, 1645 to the X chromosome and 28 to the Y chromosome. The averageSNP‐to‐SNPdistance on the X chromosome was 91.3 kb, whereas on the Y chromosome it was 1546.4 kb. The minor allele frequency within the Indian cattle varied from 0.103 (Ongole) to 0.177 (Siri), whereas Holstein cattle had the lowest value of 0.089. This is the first application ofGBSin cattle of South Asia. The baseline information generated in this study might prompt implementation ofGBSin breeding of cattle belonging to this region.
Factors affecting the dose of methadone among patients receiving methadone maintenance therapy in Taiwan
Authors: Li Dian‐Jeng , Chung Kuan‐Shang , Wu Hung‐Chi , Hsu Chih‐Yao , Yen Cheng‐Fang
Published: March 2018

Background

Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been shown to be an effective therapeutic strategy for opioid users. This study aimed to investigate the predictive effect of clinically predominant sleep disturbance (CPSD) on the dose of methadone among opiate users receiving MMT during a follow‐up period of 6 years in Taiwan.

Methods

This retrospective study included 1,290 individuals with opioid dependence who visited our MMT clinic for the first time. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze the effect of CPSD on the daily dose of methadone by controlling for the effects of demographic and MMT characteristics.

Results

A total of 469 (36.4%) participants were comorbid with CPSD. After controlling for the effects of demographic and MMT characteristics, the participants comorbid with CPSD had a higher dose of daily methadone than those without CPSD (estimate: 7.03, p < .001). Furthermore, younger age (estimate: −1.22, p < .001), older age at initial MMT (estimate: .44, p < .001), lower educational level (estimate: −.90, p = .003) and lower attendance rates (estimate: −.14, p = .033) are significantly related to higher doses of daily methadone.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Our study provided a naturalistic observation of the cohort for long period, along with a large sample size which could reflect clinical practice in the real world. We reported that a higher daily dose of methadone was significantly associated with CPSD after controlling for the effects of other factors. CPSD should be routinely surveyed among heroin users receiving MMT. (Am J Addict 2018;27:225–230)
Generalizability of the findings from a randomized controlled trial of a web‐based substance use disorder intervention
Authors: Susukida Ryoko , Crum Rosa M. , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Mojtabai Ramin
Published: March 2018

Background and Objectives

There is growing concern regarding the generalizability of findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions for substance use disorders (SUDs). This study used a selection model approach to assess and improve the generalizability of an evaluation for a web‐based SUD intervention by making the trial sample resemble the target population.

Methods

The sample of the web‐based SUD intervention (Therapeutic Education System vs. Treatment‐as‐usual; n = 507) was compared with the target population of SUD treatment‐seeking individuals from the Treatment Episodes Data Set‐Admissions (TEDS‐A). Using weights based on the probabilities of RCT participation, we computed weighted treatment effects on retention and abstinence.

Results

Substantial differences between the RCT sample and the target population was demonstrated in significant difference in the mean propensity scores (1.62 standard deviations at p < .001). The population effect on abstinence (12 weeks and 6 months) was statistically insignificant after weighting the data with the generalizability weight.

Discussions and Conclusions

Generalizability of the findings from the RCT could be limited when the RCT sample does not well represent the target population.

Scientific Significance

Application of generalizability weights can be a potentially useful tool to improve generalizability of RCT findings. (Am J Addict 2018;27:231–237)
Allied health weekend service provision in Australian rehabilitation units
Authors: Caruana Erin L , Kuys Suzanne S , Brauer Sandra G
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To determine current Australian allied health rehabilitation weekend service provision and to identify perceived barriers to and facilitators of weekend service provision.

Methods

Senior physiotherapists from Australian rehabilitation units completed an online cross‐sectional survey exploring current service provision, staffing, perceived outcomes, and barriers and facilitators to weekend service provision.

Results

A total of 179 (83%) eligible units responded, with 94 facilities (53%) providing weekend therapy. A Saturday service was the most common (97%) with the most frequent service providers being physiotherapists (90%). Rehabilitation weekend service was perceived to increase patient/family satisfaction (66%) and achieve faster goal attainment (55%). Common barriers were budgetary restraints (66%) and staffing availability (54%), with facilitators including organisational support (76%), staff availability (62%) and staff support (61%).

Conclusion

Despite increasing evidence of effectiveness, only half of Australian rehabilitation facilities provide weekend services. Further efforts are required to translate evidence from clinical trials into feasible service delivery models.
The feasibility of a clinical audit tool to investigate stillbirth in Australia – a single centre experience
Authors: Lehner Christoph , Harry Amanda , Pelecanos Anita , Wilson Lauren , Pink Kate , Sekar Renuka
Published: March 2018

Background

The stillbirth rate in Australia is 7 per 1000 births (Australia's Mothers and Babies 2014—in brief. Perinatal Statistics Series no. 32. Cat no. PER 87, Canberra, AIHW, 2016). The Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand (PSANZ) developed guidelines to standardise the investigations into stillbirth.

Aims

To identify causes of stillbirths and stillbirth care using the National Perinatal Death Clinical Audit Tool (National Perinatal Death Clinical Audit Tool, Australian and New Zealand Stillbirth Alliance [ANZSA]/Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand [PSANZ]) and compare it to the PSANZ recommendations. Documentation of examination findings and follow‐up after stillbirth were also reviewed.

Materials and Methods

From the total of 515 registered stillbirths at a Queensland hospital, 170 stillbirths were considered unexplained after chart review between July 2004 and September 2014. The National Perinatal Death Clinical Audit Tool was applied and resulting underlying causes of stillbirths were classified using the PSANZ perinatal mortality classification system.

Results

The stillbirth rate for this centre was 11.2 per 1000 births. A cause of fetal death was established in 55.4% (93/168) and 75 cases (44.6%) remained unexplained corresponding to 14.6% of all registered stillbirths (75/515).

Over half of the women (52.7%) were nulliparous. High rates of autopsy (47.3%), bereavement support (99.4%) and placental histopathology (98.8%) were noted. The general practitioner was notified in 98.7% of cases at the time of stillbirth; 34.1% of babies were small for gestational age at birth, 18.9% were growth‐restricted at birth and 21.4% of women were current smokers.

Conclusion

The National Perinatal Death Clinical Audit Tool facilitates and streamlines stillbirth investigations and thus helps to identify underlying causes of stillbirth.
Daily allergic multimorbidity in rhinitis using mobile technology: A novel concept of the MASK study
Authors: Bousquet J. , Devillier P. , Anto J. M. , Bewick M. , Haahtela T. , Arnavielhe S. , Bedbrook A. , Murray R. , van Eerd M. , Fonseca J. A. , Morais Almeida M. , Todo Bom A. , Menditto E. , Passalacqua G. , Stellato C. , Triggiani M. , Ventura M. T. , Vezzani G. , Annesi‐Maesano I. , Bourret R. , Bosse I. , Caimmi D. , Cartier C. , Demoly P. , Just J. , Portejoie F. , Siroux V. , Viart F. , Bergmann K. C. , Keil T. , Klimek L. , Mösges R. , Pfaar O. , Shamai S. , Zuberbier T. , Mullol J. , Valero A. , Spranger O. , Tomazic P. V. , Kowalski M. L. , Kuna P. , Kupczyk M. , Raciborski F. , Samolinski B. , Toppila‐Salmi S. K. , Valovirta E. , Cruz A. A. , Sarquis‐Serpa F. , da Silva J. , Stelmach R. , Larenas‐Linnemann D. , Rodriguez Gonzalez M. , Burguete Cabañas M. T. , Kvedariene V. , Valiulis A. , Chavannes N. H. , Fokkens W. J. , Ryan D. , Sheikh A. , Bachert C. , Hellings P. W. , VandenPlas O. , Ballardini N. , Kull I. , Melén E. , Westman M. , Wickman M. , Bindslev‐Jensen C. , Eller E. , Bosnic‐Anticevich S. , O'Hehir R. E. , Agache I. , Bieber T. , Casale T. , Gemicioğlu B. , Ivancevich J. C. , De Vries G. , Sorensen M. , Yorgancioglu A. , Laune D. ,   MACVIA working group
Published: March 2018

Background

Multimorbidity in allergic airway diseases is well known, but no data exist about the daily dynamics of symptoms and their impact on work. To better understand this, we aimed to assess the presence and control of daily allergic multimorbidity (asthma, conjunctivitis, rhinitis) and its impact on work productivity using a mobile technology, the Allergy Diary.

Methods

We undertook a 1‐year prospective observational study in which 4 210 users and 32 585 days were monitored in 19 countries. Five visual analogue scales (VAS) assessed the daily burden of the disease (i.e., global evaluation, nose, eyes, asthma and work). Visual analogue scale levels <20/100 were categorized as “Low” burden and VAS levels ≥50/100 as “High” burden.

Results

Visual analogue scales global measured levels assessing the global control of the allergic disease were significantly associated with allergic multimorbidity. Eight hypothesis‐driven patterns were defined based on “Low” and “High” VAS levels. There were <0.2% days of Rhinitis Low and Asthma High or Conjunctivitis High patterns. There were 5.9% days with a Rhinitis High—Asthma Low pattern. There were 1.7% days with a Rhinitis High—Asthma High—Conjunctivitis Low pattern. A novel Rhinitis High—Asthma High—Conjunctivitis High pattern was identified in 2.9% days and had the greatest impact on uncontrolled VAS global measured and impaired work productivity. Work productivity was significantly correlated with VAS global measured levels.

Conclusions

In a novel approach examining daily symptoms with mobile technology, we found considerable intra‐individual variability of allergic multimorbidity including a previously unrecognized extreme pattern of uncontrolled multimorbidity.
Posttraumatic Stress During the Greek Economic Crisis: Is There Evidence for Mass Traumatization?
Authors: Sochos Antignonos
Published: March 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate levels of posttraumatic stress due to the recent economic crisis in a Greek community sample and identify particularly vulnerable demographic groups. A sample of 1,208 residents of a western Athens borough completed the Impact of Events Scale—Revised. According to the findings, almost 60% of respondents reported severe and 28% moderate symptoms. Individuals in employment presented similar levels as the unemployed, while caring for dependants, having lower educational attainment, and being female and older were associated with greater posttraumatic stress. The present findings suggest a high prevalence of posttraumatic stress in a community sample, indicating that policymakers in Greece, Europe, and worldwide need to take very seriously the growing evidence for the detrimental effects of austerity politics on both individual and collective well‐being.
Roflumilast Usage from 2010 to 2016: A Danish Nationwide Drug Utilization Study
Authors: Salvesen Øyvind Nicolay Ulland , Davidsen Jesper Rømhild , Pottegård Anton , Henriksen Daniel Pilsgaard
Published: March 2018

Abstract

Roflumilast, a phosphodiesterase‐4‐inhibitor, is marketed as add‐on treatment to inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids in COPD patients with frequent exacerbations. Although marketed since 2010, usage pattern of roflumilast for an entire nation has not previously been explored. This study aimed to estimate the total utilization of roflumilast in Denmark during 2010 to 2016, using the Danish nationwide health registers. We identified 1573 individuals (47% males) who used roflumilast during the study period, of whom 705 (45%) redeemed only one prescription. Of all patients initiating roflumilast, 67% discontinued treatment within the first year. The rate of treatment initiation decreased 73% from 2011 (7.5/100,000 person‐years) to 2016 (2.0/100,000 person‐years) concurrent with a stable prevalence of 3.0–4.0/100,000 persons throughout the study period. The median duration of roflumilast use was 76 days. Patients with severe comorbidity tended to exhibit a lower degree of early discontinuation (Charlson Comorbidity Index 3+: odds ratio [OR]: 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33–1.04), as well as patients with a COPD‐related admission within a year prior to roflumilast initiation (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.49–0.80). The decreasing incidence and high level of early roflumilast discontinuation could be due to lack of benefit, a low awareness of romiflulast's indication among physicians, secondary to a challenging prescribing procedure or to adverse effects.
Model-Averaged Confounder Adjustment for Estimating Multivariate Exposure Effects with Linear Regression
Authors: Wilson Ander , Zigler Corwin M. , Patel Chirag J. , Dominici Francesca
Published: March 2018

In environmental and nutritional epidemiology and in many other fields, there is increasing interest in estimating the effect of simultaneous exposure to several agents (e.g., multiple nutrients, pesticides, or air pollutants) on a health outcome. We consider estimating the effect of a multivariate exposure that includes several continuous agents and their interactions—on an outcome, when the true confounding variables are an unknown subset of a potentially large (relative to sample size) set of measured covariates. Our approach is rooted in the ideas of Bayesian model averaging: the exposure effect is estimated as a weighted average of the estimated exposure effects obtained under several linear regression models that include different sets of the potential confounders. We introduce a data-driven prior that assigns to the likely confounders a higher probability of being included into the regression model. We show that our approach can also be formulated as a penalized likelihood formulation with an interpretable tuning parameter. Through a simulation study, we demonstrate that the proposed approach identifies parsimonious models that are fully adjusted for observed confounding and estimates the multivariate exposure effect with smaller mean squared error compared to several alternatives. We apply the method to an Environmental Wide Association Study using National Heath and Nutrition Examination Survey to estimate the effect of mixtures of nutrients and pesticides on lipid levels.