bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of culling on individual badger Meles meles behaviour: Potential implications for bovine tuberculosis transmission
Authors: Ham Cally , Donnelly Christl A. , Astley Kelly L. , Jackson Seth Y. B. , Woodroffe Rosie
Published: October 2019

Culling wildlife as a form of disease management can have unexpected and sometimes counterproductive outcomes. In the UK, badgers Meles meles are culled in efforts to reduce badger‐to‐cattle transmission of Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (TB). However, culling has previously been associated with both increased and decreased incidence of M. bovis infection in cattle.

The adverse effects of culling have been linked to cull‐induced changes in badger ranging, but such changes are not well‐documented at the individual level. Using GPS‐collars, we characterized individual badger behaviour within an area subjected to widespread industry‐led culling, comparing it with the same area before culling and with three unculled areas.

Culling was associated with a 61% increase (95% CI 27%–103%) in monthly home range size, a 39% increase (95% CI 28%–51%) in nightly maximum distance from the sett, and a 17% increase (95% CI 11%–24%) in displacement between successive GPS‐collar locations recorded at 20‐min intervals. Despite travelling further, we found a 91.2 min (95% CI 67.1–115.3 min) reduction in the nightly activity time of individual badgers associated with culling. These changes became apparent while culls were ongoing and persisted after culling ended.

Expanded ranging in culled areas was associated with individual badgers visiting 45% (95% CI 15%–80%) more fields each month, suggesting that surviving individuals had the opportunity to contact more cattle. Moreover, surviving badgers showed a 19.9‐fold increase (95% CI 10.8–36.4‐fold increase) in the odds of trespassing into neighbouring group territories, increasing opportunities for intergroup contact.

Synthesis and applications. Badger culling was associated with behavioural changes among surviving badgers which potentially increased opportunities for both badger‐to‐badger and badger‐to‐cattle transmission of Mycobacterium bovis. Furthermore, by reducing the time badgers spent active, culling may have reduced badgers' accessibility to shooters, potentially undermining subsequent population control efforts. Our results specifically illustrate the challenges posed by badger behaviour to cull‐based TB control strategies and furthermore, they highlight the negative impacts culling can have on integrated disease control strategies.
Influence of the Crc global regulator on substrate uptake rates and the distribution of metabolic fluxes in Pseudomonas putida KT2440 growing in a complete medium
Authors: Molina Lázaro , La Rosa Ruggero , Nogales Juan , Rojo Fernando
Published: October 2019

When the soil bacterium Pseudomonas putida grows in a complete medium, it prioritizes the assimilation of preferred carbon sources, optimizing its metabolism and growth. This regulatory process is orchestrated by the Crc and Hfq proteins. The present work examines the changes that occur in metabolic fluxes when the crc gene is inactivated and cells grow exponentially in LB complete medium. Analyses were performed at three different moments during exponential growth, examining the assimilation rates for the compounds present in LB, changes in the proteome, and the changes in metabolic fluxes predicted by the iJN1411 metabolic model for P. putida KT2440. During the early exponential phase, consumption rates for sugars, many organic acids and most amino acids were higher in a Crc‐null strain than in the wild type, leading to an overflow of the metabolic pathways and the leakage of pyruvate and acetate. These accelerated consumption rates decreased during the mid‐exponential phase, when cells mostly used sugars and alanine. At later times, pyruvate was recovered from the medium and utilized. The higher consumption rates of the Crc‐null strain reduced the growth rate. The lack of the Crc/Hfq regulatory system thus led to unbalanced metabolism with poorly optimized metabolic fluxes.
The interdependence of global oil price, China's stock price and economic policy uncertainty
Authors: Gao Xue , Ren Yixin , Li Xin
Published: October 2019

This investigation examines the interaction among global oil price (OP), China's stock price (SP) and China's economic policy uncertainty (EPU) during the period of 2005:01 and 2017:12. A rolling window Toda‐Yamamoto causality method shows a complex time‐varying relationship. Bilateral causalities between these variables mostly accompany by sharp fluctuations in global or China's economy. Taking into account the inherent consistency of this time‐varying relation, the causal steps approach shows EPU follows a partial but time‐varying mediator process during crisis periods, which suggests EPU is one of mediator variables in this transmission mechanism. The mediator role of EPU in the transmission mechanism of OP and SP has not been paid enough attention before. Our findings provide a new direction for investors from the perspective of policy changes to deal with risks caused by OP and SP fluctuations especially when the financial market experiencing huge fluctuations.
Feelings of betrayal and echoes of the First Crusade in Odo of Deuil's De profectione Ludovici VII in Orientem
Authors: Spencer Stephen J.
Published: October 2019

This article seeks to shed light on the literary agenda of Odo of Deuil, author of the most detailed Latin account of the Levantine branch of the Second Crusade. It calls for scholars to reinstate Odo's vilification of the Byzantines as a primary, rather than secondary, objective and proposes a new explanation for his stringent anti-Greek tone. It first extends our knowledge of Odo's engagement with the historiographical tradition of the First Crusade, before drawing attention to a hitherto unappreciated layer in his vilification of the Byzantines: his use of emotional language.
Composition and occurrence of aflatoxin M1 in cow's milk samples from Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran
Authors: Hajmohammadi Marzieh , Valizadeh Reza , Naserian Abassali , Nourozi Mohammad E , Rocha Ramon S , Oliveira Carlos A F
Published: October 2019

The composition and occurrence of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) were investigated in 60 samples of cow's raw milk samples from Razavi Khorasan Province of Iran. Only percentages of milk samples protein, lactose and total solids in samples collected during summer were slightly lower than the Iranian reference values. Compared with summer samples, higher percentages of milk samples components were observed in the winter. The overall mean AFM1 level was 61 ± 8 ng/L, with 24 samples (40%) showing concentrations above the maximum permitted level established in Iran (50 ng/L). Control measures are urgently needed to avoid aflatoxin in milk samples produced in Razavi Khorasan Province.
25‐Hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and risk of metabolic syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus women
Authors: García‐Carrasco Mario , Mendoza‐Pinto Claudia , Cabrera‐Jiménez Miriam , Munguía‐Realpozo Pamela , Méndez‐Martínez Socorro , Etchegaray‐Morales Ivet , Berra‐Romani Roberto , Zamora‐Ginez Irma , López‐Colombo Aurelio , Monroy‐Azuara Marianne G. , Ruiz‐Arguelles Alejandro
Published: October 2019

Objective

A protective function of vitamin D in metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been described. The objective of the present study was to examine the relationship between serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations and MetS in non‐diabetic systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) women.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analyses of the relationship between concentrations of 25(OH)D, MetS, and its components were made in 160 non‐diabetic SLE women. MetS was defined according to National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Serum 25(OH)D was measured by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were categorized into quartiles (<16.6, 16.6‐21.1, 21.2‐26.3, ≥26.4 ng/mL).

Results

A total of 79 (49.3%) SLE women had MetS. Without adjusting for body mass index (BMI) or smoking, the odds of having MetS decreased according to increasing quartiles of 25(OH)D concentrations (P for trend = .03). The odds ratio (OR) of having MetS was 0.4 (95% confidence interval: 0.2‐0.9, P = .04) for the highest vs the lowest quartile of 25(OH)D concentrations when adjusted by age. The crude OR of having elevated hypertriglyceridemia decreased according to increasing quartiles of 25(OH)D concentrations (P for trend = .036). However, further adjustments for BMI and smoking removed the inverse association between 25(OH)D concentrations and MetS and its individual components.

Conclusion

In non‐diabetic SLE women with mild activity, 25(OH)D concentrations are not associated with MetS and its components.
Development and validation of a novel rheumatoid arthritis knowledge assessment scale in Pakistani patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Naqvi Atta Abbas , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Iffat Wajiha , Zia Madiha , Fatima Mustajab , Shakeel Sadia , Khan Irfanullah , Jahangir Amnah , Kachela Bharti , Nadir Muhammad Nehal , Qureshi Imran , Bangash Umair
Published: October 2019

Aim

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic progressive disabling disease that mainly affects joints. Studies documenting Pakistani patients' knowledge regarding RA disease are lacking and there is a need for such endeavor. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a novel research tool to document patient knowledge about RA disease.

Methods

A novel research instrument known as the rheumatoid arthritis knowledge assessment scale (RAKAS) which consisted of 13 items, was formulated by a rheumatology panel and used for this study. This study was conducted in rheumatology clinics of three tertiary care hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. The study was conducted in March–April 2018. Patients were recruited using a randomized computer‐generated list of appointments. Sample size was calculated based on item‐to‐respondent ratio of 1:15. The validities, factor structure, sensitivity, reliability and internal consistency of RAKAS were assessed. The study was approved by the institutional Ethics Committee.

Results

A total of 263 patients responded to the study. Content validity was 0.93 and response rate was 89.6%. Factor analysis revealed a 3‐factor structure. Fit indices, namely normed fit index (NFI), Tucker Lewis index (TLI), comparative fit index (CFI) and root mean square of error approximation (RMSEA) were calculated with satisfactory results, that is, NFI, TLI and CFI > 0.9, and RMSEA < 0.06. Internal consistency (α) was 0.62, that is, acceptable. All items had a high discrimination index, that is, >19 and difficulty index <0.95. Sensitivity and specificity of RAKAS were above 90%. The tool established construct and known group validities.

Conclusion

A novel tool to document disease knowledge in patients with RA was formulated and validated.
Post‐progression survival is highly linked to overall survival in patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer harboring sensitiveEGFRmutations treated with first‐line epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Imai Hisao , Kaira Kyoichi , Mori Keita , Kotake Mie , Mitani Masumi , Kawashima Naoko , Hisada Takeshi , Minato Koichi
Published: October 2019

Background

In patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐mutated advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI) treatment has shown a good response. Subsequent treatments jeopardize the ability to determine the effect of first‐line chemotherapy on overall survival (OS). Therefore, using patient‐level data, we aimed to study the associations of progression‐free survival (PFS) and post‐progression survival (PPS) with OS after first‐line EGFR‐TKI treatment in patients withEGFR‐mutated NSCLC.

Methods

Between November 2006 and December 2016, we analyzed 92 patients withEGFR‐mutated NSCLC treated with first‐line EGFR‐TKI. The correlations of PFS and PPS with OS were analyzed for each patient.

Results

Spearman's rank correlation and linear regression analyzes showed that PPS correlated highly with OS (r= 0.85,P < 0.05,R2= 0.75), whereas PFS correlated weakly with OS (r= 0.76,P < 0.05,R2= 0.50). The best responses after first‐line and second‐line treatments were significantly associated with PPS.

Conclusions

PPS has a higher impact on OS than PFS in patients withEGFR‐mutated NSCLC treated with first‐line EGFR‐TKIs. These outcomes suggest that the OS in this patient group may be affected by treatments following first‐line chemotherapy; however, this remains to be verified in prospective trials.
Sex Without Contraceptives in a Multicenter Study of Adolescent Emergency Department Patients
Authors: Chernick Lauren S. , Chun Thomas H. , Richards Rachel , Bromberg Julie R. , Ahmad Fahd A. , McAninch Brett , Mull Colette , Shenoi Rohit , Suffoletto Brian , Casper Charlie , Linakis James , Spirito Anthony ,   Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN)
Published: October 2019

Objectives

In the United States, rates of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain exceptionally high, and racial and ethnic disparities persist. Emergency departments (EDs) care for over 19 million adolescents each year, the majority being minority and low socioeconomic status. Single‐center studies demonstrate infrequent use of contraceptives among adolescent ED patients and an association between risky sex and behaviors such as alcohol and drug use; however, no multicenter ED data exist. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine the prevalence of sex without contraceptives in a large multicenter adolescent ED study and 2) assess patient demographic and risky behaviors associated with sex without contraceptives.

Methods

Participants aged 14 to 17 years (n = 3,247) in 16 pediatric EDs across the United States completed an electronic survey. Questions focused on validated measures of risky sex; use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other drugs; and depression and violence. In this secondary analysis, we constructed univariable and multivariable models to identify demographic and behavioral factors associated with sex without contraceptives (our primary outcome), separately for adolescent males and females.

Results

In the prior year, 17.4% (236/1,356) of males and 15.8% (299/1,891) of females had sex without contraceptives. In the multivariable model, sex without contraceptives for both genders was more likely among teens who were black, with conduct problems and participated in casual sex, binge drinking, or cannabis use. Sex without contraceptives was also more likely among Hispanic and cigarette‐smoking males, as well as depressed females.

Conclusions

Adolescent ED patients across the United States are participating in risky sexual behaviors that increase their likelihood of pregnancy and STI acquisition. These adolescents report a number of problem behaviors, including substance use, which are strongly correlated with unprotected sex. The ED visit may be an opportunity to identify at‐risk adolescent patients, address risky behaviors, and intervene to improve adolescent health.
ILC3 deficiency and generalized ILC abnormalities in DOCK8‐deficient patients
Authors: Eken Ahmet , Cansever Murat , Okus Fatma Zehra , Erdem Serife , Nain Ercan , Azizoglu Zehra Busra , Haliloglu Yesim , Karakukcu Musa , Ozcan Alper , Devecioglu Omer , Aksu Guzide , Arikan Ayyildiz Zeynep , Topal Erdem , Karakoc Aydiner Elif , Kiykim Ayca , Metin Ayse , Cipe Funda , Kaya Aysenur , Artac Hasibe , Reisli Ismail , Guner Sukru N. , Uygun Vedat , Karasu Gulsun , Dönmez Altuntas Hamiyet , Canatan Halit , Oukka Mohamed , Ozen Ahmet , Chatila Talal A. , Keles Sevgi , Baris Safa , Unal Ekrem , Patiroglu Turkan
Published: October 2019

Background

Dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK8) deficiency is the main cause of the autosomal recessive hyper‐IgE syndrome (HIES). We previously reported the selective loss of group 3 innate lymphoid cell (ILC) number and function in a Dock8‐deficient mouse model. In this study, we sought to test whether DOCK8 is required for the function and maintenance of ILC subsets in humans.

Methods

Peripheral blood ILC1‐3 subsets of 16 DOCK8‐deficient patients recruited at the pretransplant stage, and seven patients with autosomal dominant (AD) HIES due to STAT3 mutations, were compared with those of healthy controls or post‐transplant DOCK8‐deficient patients (n = 12) by flow cytometry and real‐time qPCR. Sorted total ILCs from DOCK8‐ or STAT3‐mutant patients and healthy controls were assayed for survival, apoptosis, proliferation, and activation by IL‐7, IL‐23, and IL‐12 by cell culture, flow cytometry, and phospho‐flow assays.

Results

DOCK8‐deficient but not STAT3‐mutant patients exhibited a profound depletion of ILC3s, and to a lesser extent ILC2s, in their peripheral blood. DOCK8‐deficient ILC1‐3 subsets had defective proliferation, expressed lower levels of IL‐7R, responded less to IL‐7, IL‐12, or IL‐23 cytokines, and were more prone to apoptosis compared with those of healthy controls.

Conclusion

DOCK8 regulates human ILC3 expansion and survival, and more globally ILC cytokine signaling and proliferation. DOCK8 deficiency leads to loss of ILC3 from peripheral blood. ILC3 deficiency may contribute to the susceptibility of DOCK8‐deficient patients to infections.
Baseline intrinsic heart rate and response to ivabradine treatment in patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia
Authors: Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Klingenheben Thomas , Poddebska Izabela , Urbanek Irmina , Wranicz Jerzy K. , Cygankiewicz Iwona , Ptaszyński Pawel
Published: October 2019

Background

Treatment with ivabradine became a new therapeutic alternative for patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST). The aim was to determine a relation between intrinsic heart rate (IHR) and response to ivabradine treatment.

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients (mean age 37 ± 11; 23 women) with symptomatic IST despite medical treatment were recruited into the study. Resting ECG, 24‐hr ECG monitoring (24hECG), exercise treadmill test, and symptoms evaluation were performed initially and after 60 days on ivabradine. IHR was acquired at baseline after pharmacological autonomic blockade.

Results

Nineteen patients (70%) were classified as abnormal IHR group (AIHR) while eight showed normal IHR (NIHR). No significant differences in ECG parameters were found between NIHR and AIHR subgroups, while baseline exercise capacity was higher in AIHR patients (10.9 vs. 9.5 METs, p < .05). Ivabradine treatment resulted in significant reduction in resting heart rate, average 24hECG heart rate, improvement in exercise capacity and reduction of symptoms in both subgroups. Nevertheless, favorable influence of ivabradine was significantly more exaggerated in AIHR subgroup (HR 116 vs. 90 bpm, av. HR 98 vs. 79 bpm, 10.9 vs. 13.6 METS, EHRA score 3.1 vs. 1.1, p < .001 for all) than in NIHR patients (HR 112 vs. 98 bpm, av. HR 97 vs. 88 bpm, 9.5 vs. 11.1 METs, EHRA score 3.1 vs. 1.9; p < .05 for all).

Conclusions

Intrinsic heart rate may be useful in predicting response to ivabradine in patients with IST. More intense response to ivabradine in patients with AIHR may be attributed to different pathophysiological mechanisms underlying IST in AIHR and NIHR groups.
Detecting unstable plaques in humans using cardiac CT: Can it guide treatments?
Authors: Daghem Marwa , Newby David E.
Published: October 2019

Advances in imaging technology have driven the rapid expansion in the use of CT in the assessment of coronary atherosclerotic plaque. Based on a rapidly growing evidence base, current guidelines recommend coronary CT angiography as the first‐line diagnostic test for patients presenting with stable chest pain. There is a growing need to refine current methods for diagnosis and risk stratification to improve the individualisation of preventative therapies. Imaging assessments of high‐risk plaque with CT can be used to differentiate stable from unstable patterns of coronary atherosclerosis and potentially to improve patient risk stratification. This review will focus on coronary imaging with CT with a specific focus on the detection of coronary atherosclerosis, high‐risk plaque features, and the implications for patient management.
Forkhead box C1 promotes metastasis and invasion of non–small cell lung cancer by binding directly to the lysyl oxidase promoter
Authors: Gong Rumei , Lin Wenli , Gao Aiqin , Liu Yanli , Li Juan , Sun Meili , Chen Xiaozheng , Han Shuyi , Men Chengsong , Sun Yuping , Liu Jie
Published: October 2019

Increasing evidence indicates that human forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) plays important roles in tumor development and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of FOXC1 in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) metastasis remains unclear. Here, we identified FOXC1 as an independent prognostic factor in NSCLC and showed clear biological implications in invasion and metastasis. FOXC1 overexpression enhanced the proliferation, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells, whereas FOXC1 silencing impaired the effects both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, we found a positive correlation between FOXC1 expression and lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression in NSCLC cells and patient samples. Downregulation of LOX or LOX activity inhibition in NSCLC cells inhibited the FOXC1‐driven effects on cellular migration and invasion. Xenograft models showed that inhibition of LOX activity by β‐aminopropionitrile monofumarate decreased the number of lung metastases. Mechanistically, we demonstrated a novel FOXC1‐LOX mechanism that was involved in the invasion and metastasis of NSCLC. Dual‐luciferase assay and ChIP identified that FOXC1 bound directly in the LOX promoter region and activated its transcription. Collectively, the present study offered new insight into FOXC1 in the mediation of NSCLC metastasis through interaction with the LOX promoter and further revealed that targeted inhibition of LOX protein activity could prevent lung metastasis in murine xenograft models. These data implicated FOXC1 as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of NSCLC metastasis.
A retrospective nationwide study of the dental caries experience of New Zealand children with orofacial cleft
Authors: Fowler Peter V. , Corbett Abbey , Lee Martin , Thompson John M. D.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To investigate the dental caries experience of New Zealand children born with orofacial cleft (OFC), to compare this to age‐specific national population‐based data and to investigate any differences by demographic characteristics, cleft type and exposure to community water fluoridation.

Methods

Nationwide retrospective study of 554 dental records from 478 children born after 1 January 2000 with OFC were assessed at aged 5 (n = 333) and 12 years (n = 221), with 76 children (15.9%) having records at both ages. Community Oral Health Service records were analysed to determine dental caries experience (dmft/DMFT). Logistic regression was used to assess the likelihood of having experienced dental caries (d3mft/D3MFT ≥ 1) and multivariable models for variables including demographic characteristics, cleft type and exposure to community water fluoridation.

Results

A higher (49.6%) caries prevalence (dmft ≥ 1) and mean dmft at 5 years old (2.3; SD 3.6) were found in children with OFC than 5‐year‐olds in the general population (prevalence 40.4% and mean dmft 1.8). The 12‐year‐old (37.6%) caries prevalence (DMFT ≥ 1) and mean DMFT 0.8 (SD 1.4) were similar to population‐based data (caries prevalence 37.3% and mean DMFT 0.9). Children with caries (dmf/DMF ≥ 1) had means of 4.8 (SD 3.8) at age 5 and 2.1 (SD 1.4) at age 12 years. Greater caries experience was associated Pacific and Māori ethnicity, and not receiving community water fluoridation. No differences were detected by sex or cleft type.

Conclusion

The dental caries experience for 5‐year‐old children with OFC was poor in relation to population‐based data and similar for 12‐year‐olds. Preventive guidelines for children with OFC from an early age should be a priority, along with the extension of community water fluoridation coverage.
Moving From Unconcious Bias to Inclusive Leadership
Authors: Davis Shirley
Published: October 2019

The leadership traits that worked in the twentieth century aren’t going to work for the workforce of 2030.

On being a leader in the era of a new generation of workers.
A novel fMRI paradigm to dissociate the behavioral and neural components of mixed‐strategy decision making from non‐strategic decisions in humans
Authors: Parr Ashley C. , Coe Brian C. , Munoz Douglas P. , Dorris Michael C.
Published: October 2019

During competitive interactions, such as predator–prey or team sports, the outcome of one's actions is dependent on both their own choices and those of their opponents. Success in these rivalries requires that individuals choose dynamically and unpredictably, often adopting a mixed strategy. Understanding the neural basis of strategic decision making is complicated by the fact that it recruits various cognitive processes that are often shared with non‐strategic forms of decision making, such as value estimation, working memory, response inhibition, response selection, and reward processes. Although researchers have explored neural activity within key brain regions during mixed‐strategy games, how brain activity differs in the context of strategic interactions versus non‐strategic choices is not well understood. We developed a novel behavioral paradigm to dissociate choice behavior during mixed‐strategy interactions from non‐strategic choices, and we used task‐based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to contrast brain activation. In a block design, participants competed in the classic mixed‐strategy game, “matching pennies,” against a dynamic computer opponent designed to exploit predictability in players’ response patterns. Results were contrasted with a non‐strategic task that had comparable sensory input, motor output, and reward rate; thus, differences in behavior and brain activation reflect strategic processes. The mixed‐strategy game was associated with activation of a distributed cortico‐striatal network compared to the non‐strategic task. We propose that choosing in mixed‐strategy contexts requires additional cognitive demands present to a lesser degree during the control task, illustrating the strength of this design in probing function of cognitive systems beyond core sensory, motor, and reward processes.
Prolonged exposure to manure from livestock‐administered antibiotics decreases ecosystem carbon‐use efficiency and alters nitrogen cycling
Authors: Wepking Carl , Badgley Brian , Barrett John E. , Knowlton Katharine F. , Lucas Jane M. , Minick Kevan J. , Ray Partha P. , Shawver Sarah E. , Strickland Michael S.
Published: October 2019

Microbial communities drive soil ecosystem function but are also susceptible to environmental disturbances. We investigated whether exposure to manure sourced from cattle either administered or not administered antibiotics affected microbially mediated terrestrial ecosystem function. We quantified changes in microbial community composition via amplicon sequencing, and terrestrial elemental cycling via a stable isotope pulse‐chase. Exposure to manure from antibiotic‐treated cattle caused: (i) changes in microbial community structure; and (ii) alterations in elemental cycling throughout the terrestrial system. This exposure caused changes in fungal : bacterial ratios, as well as changes in bacterial community structure. Additionally, exposure to manure from cattle treated with pirlimycin resulted in an approximate two‐fold increase in ecosystem respiration of recently fixed‐carbon, and a greater proportion of recently added nitrogen in plant and soil pools compared to the control manure. Manure from antibiotic‐treated cattle therefore affects terrestrial ecosystem function via the soil microbiome, causing decreased ecosystem carbon use efficiency, and altered nitrogen cycling.
Assessing connectivity despite high diversity in island populations of a malaria mosquito
Authors: Bergey Christina M. , Lukindu Martin , Wiltshire Rachel M. , Fontaine Michael C. , Kayondo Jonathan K. , Besansky Nora J.
Published: October 2019

Documenting isolation is notoriously difficult for species with vast polymorphic populations. High proportions of shared variation impede estimation of connectivity, even despite leveraging information from many genetic markers. We overcome these impediments by combining classical analysis of neutral variation with assays of the structure of selected variation, demonstrated using populations of the principal African malaria vector Anopheles gambiae. Accurate estimation of mosquito migration is crucial for efforts to combat malaria. Modeling and cage experiments suggest that mosquito gene drive systems will enable malaria eradication, but establishing safety and efficacy requires identification of isolated populations in which to conduct field testing. We assess Lake Victoria islands as candidate sites, finding one island 30 km offshore is as differentiated from mainland samples as populations from across the continent. Collectively, our results suggest sufficient contemporary isolation of these islands to warrant consideration as field‐testing locations and illustrate shared adaptive variation as a useful proxy for connectivity in highly polymorphic species.
Sacrifice and Self‐Care as Relational Processes in Religious Families: The Connections and Tensions
Authors: Pippert Hilary D. , Dollahite David C. , Marks Loren D.
Published: October 2019

Objective

This study seeks to explore ways that members of religious families (of Abrahamic faiths) struggle with and address the relational processes of sacrifice and self‐care.

Background

Sacrifice and self‐care influence human relationships, and as such, every human has to learn how to engage in them. Families are one of the many communities in which one must address sacrifice and self‐care.

Method

This study provides a qualitative exploration of sacrifice and self‐care among a sample of 198 highly religious (Abrahamic faiths) families. In‐depth analyses explored motivations, types, and related family processes among family relationships.

Results

A conceptual model illustrates sacrifice and self‐care in family life using an interdependence theory approach. Five themes from the data about how families perceived and addressed these relational processes are discussed: (a) tensions between sacrifice and self‐care, (b) motivations for sacrifice and self‐care, (c) types of sacrifice, (d) types of self‐care, and (e) processes in faith and family relationships.

Discussion

Religious beliefs may shape how sacrifice and self‐care processes are perceived and potential tensions are addressed through either positive or negative ways. We suggest that engaging in sacrifice and self‐care with equal quality, not quantity, might be a positive way to address the emergent tensions between these processes.

Implications

Through an increased understanding of the connections and tensions between sacrifice and self‐care, researchers and practitioners will be able to better recognize how families positively address these tensions and collaboratively build resources to help family members harmonize engagement in sacrifice and self‐care to benefit relationships.
Discovery of hyperstable carbohydrate‐active enzymes through metagenomics of extreme environments
Authors: Strazzulli Andrea , Cobucci‐Ponzano Beatrice , Iacono Roberta , Giglio Rosa , Maurelli Luisa , Curci Nicola , Schiano‐di‐Cola Corinna , Santangelo Annalisa , Contursi Patrizia , Lombard Vincent , Henrissat Bernard , Lauro Federico M. , Fontes Carlos M.G.A. , Moracci Marco
Published: October 2019

The enzymes from hyperthermophilic microorganisms populating volcanic sites represent interesting cases of protein adaptation and biotransformations under conditions where conventional enzymes quickly denature. The difficulties in cultivating extremophiles severely limit access to this class of biocatalysts. To circumvent this problem, we embarked on the exploration of the biodiversity of the solfatara Pisciarelli, Agnano (Naples, Italy), to discover hyperthermophilic carbohydrate‐active enzymes (CAZymes) and to characterize the entire set of such enzymes in this environment (CAZome). Here, we report the results of the metagenomic analysis of two mud/water pools that greatly differ in both temperature and pH (T = 85 °C and pH 5.5; T = 92 °C and pH 1.5, for Pool1 and Pool2, respectively). DNA deep sequencing and following in silico analysis led to 14 934 and 17 652 complete ORFs in Pool1 and Pool2, respectively. They exclusively belonged to archaeal cells and viruses with great genera variance within the phylum Crenarchaeota, which reflected the difference in temperature and pH of the two Pools. Surprisingly, 30% and 62% of all of the reads obtained from Pool1 and 2, respectively, had no match in nucleotide databanks. Genes associated with carbohydrate metabolism were 15% and 16% of the total in the two Pools, with 278 and 308 putative CAZymes in Pool1 and 2, corresponding to ~ 2.0% of all ORFs. Biochemical characterization of two CAZymes of a previously unknown archaeon revealed a novel subfamily GH5_19 β‐mannanase/β‐1,3‐glucanase whose hemicellulose specificity correlates with the vegetation surrounding the sampling site, and a novel NAD+‐dependent GH109 with a previously unreported β‐N‐acetylglucosaminide/β‐glucoside specificity.

Databases

The sequencing reads are available in the NCBI Sequence Read Archive (SRA) database under the accession numbers SRR7545549 (Pool1) and SRR7545550 (Pool2). The sequences of GH5_Pool2 and GH109_Pool2 are available in GenBank database under the accession numbers MK869723 and MK86972, respectively. The environmental data relative to Pool1 and Pool2 (NCBI BioProject PRJNA481947) are available in the Biosamples database under the accession numbers SAMN09692669 (Pool1) and SAMN09692670 (Pool2).
The aggregate cost of equity underdiversification
Authors: Florentsen Bjarne , Nielsson Ulf , Raahauge Peter , Rangvid Jesper
Published: October 2019

We analyze equity diversification of all retail investors in a country (Denmark). We find that underdiversification is pervasive. We calculate the nationwide aggregate loss due to underdiversification and express it in absolute and expected‐return terms. The aggregate loss is large. We find that investors with low education, low income, and low wealth are more likely to underdiversify. Despite better diversification, the larger fraction of the aggregate loss nevertheless adheres to the top of the income/wealth distribution. Finally, our results indicate that underdiversification arises because investors have limited information about the benefits of diversification.
Consequences of temperature and temperature variability on swimming activity, group structure, and predation of endangered delta smelt
Authors: Davis Brittany E. , Hansen Matthew J. , Cocherell Dennis E. , Nguyen Trinh X. , Sommer Ted , Baxter Randall D. , Fangue Nann A. , Todgham Anne E.
Published: October 2019

The effects of water temperature on individual and group movement behaviour in prey fish can affect ecological interactions such as competition and predation, but how variability in temperature influence fish behaviour is less understood. Of particular concern is how increased warming in tidally fluctuating estuaries may impact the native and endangered delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus, Osmeridae).

To help address this issue, we tested the effects of increased water temperature (fluctuating [17–21°C] and warm [21°C] acclimated treatments) on juvenile delta smelt individual and group behaviour, response to chemical alarm and predator cues, as well as capacity to evade predation. In addition, predation of delta smelt was tested in the presence of a dominant invasive competitor, Mississippi silversides (Menidia beryllina, Atherinopsidae), as well as comparative predation mortality on Mississippi silversides when isolated.

After 7 days of increased temperature treatments, delta smelt in the warm treatment increased swimming velocity, decreased turning angle, and altered group structure with larger inter‐individual distances compared to fish in the control (17°C) and fluctuating temperature treatments. Following conspecific and predator chemical alarm cues, delta smelt showed anti‐predator responses. Control and fluctuating treatment fish responded to conspecific cues with increased swimming speeds, decreased inter‐individual distances and near‐neighbour distances, and, after 15 min, fish recovered back to baseline behaviours. In contrast, fish in the warm treatment had not recovered after 15 min, and swimming speeds were maintained at roughly 25 cm/s, close to maximum capabilities. Fish in control and fluctuating treatments showed minimal responses to predator cues, whereas delta smelt exposed to warm conditions significantly increased swimming speeds and decreased turning angle.

Predation of delta smelt by largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides, Centrarchidae) was greatest under the warm treatment, correlating with altered behaviours of delta smelt; however, predation of Mississippi silversides was greater than delta smelt, independent of temperature.

This study provides novel insight into the group behaviour of delta smelt, their response to predation, and how prolonged exposure to elevated temperature may induce negative individual and group behaviours causing alterations in predator–prey dynamics. This work highlights the importance of testing ecologically realistic temperature fluctuations in experiments as delta smelt had significantly altered responses to elevated temperature, dependent on variability of warming.
Transcriptome of Tetranychus urticae embryos reveals insights into Wolbachia‐induced cytoplasmic incompatibility
Authors: Bing X‐L. , Lu Y‐J. , Xia C‐B. , Xia X. , Hong X‐Y.
Published: October 2019

The endosymbiont Wolbachia is known for manipulating host reproduction in selfish ways. However, the molecular mechanisms have not yet been investigated in embryos. Here, we found that Wolbachia had no effect on the number of deposited eggs in Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) but caused two types of reproductive manipulation: killing uninfected female embryos via cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) and increasing the hatching ratio of infected female embryos. RNA sequencing analyses showed that 145 genes were differentially expressed between Wolbachia‐infected (WI) and Wolbachia‐uninfected (WU) embryos. Wolbachia infection down‐regulated messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of glutathione S‐transferase that could buffer oxidative stress. In addition, 1613 and 294 genes were identified as CI‐specific up‐/down‐regulated genes. Compared to WU and WI embryos, embryos of CI cross strongly expressed genes involved in transcription, translation, tissue morphogenesis, DNA damage and mRNA surveillance. In contrast, most of the genes associated with energy production and metabolism were down‐regulated in the CI embryos compared to the WU and WI embryos, which provides some clues as to the cause of death of CI embryos. These results identify several genes that could be candidates for explaining Wolbachia‐induced CI. Our data form a basis to help elucidate the molecular consequences of CI in embryos.
LaCoO3 acts as a high‐efficiency co‐catalyst for enhancing visible‐light‐driven tetracycline degradation of BiOI
Authors: Yao Shuyang , Zheng Ruifen , Li Rong , Chen Yiqi , Zhou Xiaosong , Ning Xiaomei , Zhan Liang , Luo Jin
Published: October 2019

Exploring noble‐metal‐free co‐catalysts highly flexible for separating the photogenerated charge carriers is of prime importance for the visible‐light‐driven photocatalysis. Herein, three‐dimensional flower‐like BiOI microspheres were fabricated and applied to support noble‐metal‐free LaCoO3 co‐catalysts to construct a unique LaCoO3/BiOI hybrid photocatalyst with a higher ability in charge separation. As expected, the optimum tetracycline degradation rate of LaCoO3 (4.0 wt%)/BiOI was up to 0.0161 min−1, which was nearly 3.4 fold larger than that of pure BiOI (0.0048 min−1). The enhanced photocatalytic performance was mainly ascribed to the vital role of LaCoO3 co‐catalyst, which acted as an excellent electron collector for capturing the electrons generated by BiOI, effectively promoting the separation of photogenerated charge carriers and prolonging the lifetime of photo‐induced electron‐hole pairs at the same time. Furthermore, the active species trapping experiments revealed that the excellent photocatalytic activity was primarily driven by photogenerated holes and superoxide radicals. This work is expected to provide a new inspiration for rationally designing and fabricating noble‐metal‐free co‐catalyst system with high efficiency applied in environment purification.
High‐entropy transparent fluoride laser ceramics
Authors: Chen Xianqiang , Wu Yiquan
Published: October 2019

For the first time, a transparent high‐entropy fluoride laser ceramic has been prepared and characterized. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of a CeNdCaSrBaF12 (CNCSBF) transparent ceramic consolidated by vacuum hot pressing (VHP) reveals that Ce3+, Nd3+, Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+ have formed a single‐phased fluorite solid solution, with a lattice constant of 5.826 Å. Bulk density measurements produced a value of 6.15 g/cm3. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the ceramic revealed a uniform distribution of grain sizes in the material, with the average grain size being approximately 20 μm. The material exhibits a maximum in‐line transmittance of approximately 60% at 1000 nm. A near‐infrared range photoluminescence (PL) emission band was observed at 1057 nm, with a visible‐range PL emission band being located at 440 nm.
Efficacy and safety of anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibodies combined with different chemotherapy regimens in patients with RAS wild‐type metastatic colorectal cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Sun Huan , Li Yonghong , Su Yana , Wu Xinyu , Zhou Xiaoqin , Han Jin , Li Jing
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To investigate the efficacy and safety of adding anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR] MoAbs to various chemotherapy regimens in patients with RAS wild‐type metastasized colorectal cancer (RAS WT metastatic colorectal cancer [mCRC]) and to identify the optimal combination regimens.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL from the inception date to 20th May 2019. Randomized clinical trials investigating chemotherapy with or without anti‐EGFR MoAbs in treatment of patients with RAS WT mCRC were included.

Results

Eighteen studies involving 8848 participants were eligible. Comparing with oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy, adding anti‐EGFR MoAbs benefited only in progression‐free survival (PFS) (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67 to 0.94), but not in overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.78 to 1.02). Further sensitivity analysis indicated that adding anti‐EGFR MoAbs to FOLFOLX regimen as a first‐line treatment showed benefits in both PFS and OS (PFS: HR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.64 to 0.84; OS: HR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.73 to 0.95, respectively). Comparing with irinotecan‐based chemotherapy or best supportive care, adding anti‐EGFR MoAbs revealed an improvement in both PFS (HR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.69 to 0.86; HR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.40 to 0.54, respectively) and OS (HR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.80 to 0.98; HR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.54 to 0.78, respectively).

Conclusion

Anti‐EGFR MoAbs as a monotherapy or in combination with either irinotecan‐based chemotherapy or FOLFOX in patients with RAS wild‐type mCRC have better response and survival outcome, whereas OS does not benefit from adding anti‐EGFR MoAbs to another oxaliplatin‐based regimen. Anti‐EGFR MoAbs have increased the risk of adverse effects than chemotherapy alone. More high‐quality randomized controlled trials for RAS wild type are necessary.
Reduced genetic diversity and low effective size in peripheral northern European catfish Silurus glanis populations
Authors: Palm Stefan , Vinterstare Jerker , Nathanson Jan Eric , Triantafyllidis Alexandros , Petersson Erik
Published: October 2019

Using 10 polymorphic microsatellites and 1251 individual samples (some dating back to the early 1980s), genetic structure and effective population size in all native and introduced Swedish populations of the European wels catfish or Silurus glanis were studied. Levels of genetic variability and phylogeographic relationships were compared with data from a previous study of populations in other parts of Europe. The genetically distinct Swedish populations displayed comparably low levels of genetic variability and according to one‐sample estimates based on linkage disequilibrium and sib ship‐reconstruction, current local effective population sizes were lower than minimum levels recommended for short‐term genetic conservation. In line with a previous suggestion of postglacial colonisation from a single refugium, all Swedish populations were assembled on a common branch in a star‐shaped dendrogram together with other European populations. Two distinct subpopulations were detected in upper and lower habitats of River Emån, indicating that even minor dispersal barriers may restrict gene flow for wels in running waters. Genetic assignment of specimens encountered in the brackish Baltic Sea and in lakes where the species does not occur naturally indicated presence of long‐distance sea dispersal and confirmed unauthorised translocations, respectively.
Oestradiol, threat conditioning and extinction, post‐traumatic stress disorder, and prolonged exposure therapy: A common link
Authors: Hammoud Mira Z. , Foa Edna B. , Milad Mohammed R.
Published: October 2019

The accumulating evidence regarding the impact of estradiol on learning and memory synergized studies to examine its influence on enhancing animal's ability to quell fear and anxiety. In this review, we first provide a foundational platform regarding the impact of oestradiol on cellular mechanisms of learning and memory and we review recent advances from rodent and human data showing that oestrogen enhances extinction learning across species. We then propose clinical application to these data. We discuss the potential role of oestradiol variance on the aetiology, maintenance and treatment for post‐traumatic stress disorder. Specifically, we argue that the use of oestradiol as an adjunct to prolonged exposure (PE) therapy for PTSD may provide a new treatment approach for enhancing the efficacy of PE in women with PTSD. This could advance our understanding of the mechanisms of PTSD and help tailor sex‐specific treatments for this disorder.
Successful treatment of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to Group A streptococcus induced toxic shock syndrome in the third trimester of pregnancy‐effectiveness of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A case report
Authors: Ichikawa Daisuke , Jwa Seung Chik , Seto Takeru , Tarumoto Norihito , Haga Yoshiyuki , Kohno Koji , Okagaki Ryugo , Ishihara Osamu , Kamei Yoshimasa
Published: October 2019

We report a case of Group A streptococcal infection‐induced toxic shock syndrome (GAS‐TSS) with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), successfully treated with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐A ECMO). A 31‐year‐old woman was transferred due to high fever, continuous uterine contractions and fetal bradycardia at 31 weeks of gestation. She was in a shock status on arrival, and as fetal heart beat disappeared, we canceled the cesarean section and took priority in maternal rescue. At 21 h after the admission, pulseless ventricular tachycardia occurred, and V‐A ECMO was introduced after defibrillation, which dramatically improved her respiratory and circulatory conditions. On the 3rd day, GAS was isolated from blood culture. The patient was freed from V‐A ECMO on the 5th day and was discharged on the 25th day without permanent impairment. V‐A ECMO should be considered as an effective therapeutic option against ARDS and circulation failure in GAS‐TSS during pregnancy.