bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconfiguration of macropore networks in a silty loam soil following biochar addition identified by X‐ray microtomography and network analyses
Authors: Yu Xiuling , Lu Shenggao
Published: November 2018

Biochars are widely applied to improve soil pore structures. However, the quantitative effects of biochars on soil macropore networks still remain unclear. In this study, the effects and possible mechanism of biochar application on soil macropore networks were investigated quantitatively by industrial X‐ray microtomography (CT), a pore network model and network analyses. Soil cores of 5 cm in diameter and 10 cm in height were collected from a paddy soil (Typic Haplustalf) without biochar application (CK), and amended with rice straw biochar (RSB), corn straw biochar (CSB) and bamboo biochar (BB) at a rate of 25 Mg ha−1 (w/w). Results revealed that the total and connected macroporosity of the biochar‐amended soil was reduced significantly compared with CK, whereas the reverse was true for the isolated porosity. The three types of biochars exhibited different effects on macropores of the soil, depending on their size and shape. The pore network model and network analyses showed that the physical and topological structures of macropore networks in biochar‐amended soil were clearly reconfigured. The accessibility of these macropore networks was markedly reduced. Our results indicated that the incorporation of biochar did not necessarily increase the soil's macroporosity. The combination of pore network model and network analyses was effective for quantifying key properties of soil macropore networks affected by the incorporation of biochar. The changes in these properties may be used to evaluate the effects of biochar on water, air and nutrient transport.

Highlights

Effect of biochars on the soil macropore structure was studied by industrial CT.

Macropore network structure was quantified by a pore network model and network analyses.

Biochar incorporation markedly changed the accessibility of the soil macropore network.

The macropore network of soil can be reconfigured following biochar addition.
Long‐term antitumor effect of lenvatinib on unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein invasion
Authors: Takeda Haruhiko , Nishijima Norihiro , Nasu Akihiro , Komekado Hideyuki , Kita Ryuichi , Kimura Toru , Kudo Masatoshi , Osaki Yukio
Published: November 2018

Lenvatinib is a novel multikinase inhibitor that has recently shown antitumor activity against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a phase III trial. We report the case of a woman in whom lenvatinib showed long‐term antitumor activity, and in whom computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a series of suggestive radiological changes on the intratumor vascularity. A 68‐year‐old woman with hepatitis C virus‐related liver disease presented with multiple HCCs. Following previous therapy, including six sessions of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, we introduced lenvatinib monotherapy. Lenvatinib could rapidly cause hypovascularity in the main hypervascular target lesion, and portal vein tumor thrombosis also became undetectable 11 months after the initiation of lenvatinib. These radiological changes suggested that lenvatinib could exert not only anti‐angiogenic activity but also direct antitumoral effect. Of note, CT scans during lenvatinib treatment revealed the target lesion as a low‐density area in the early arterial phase, whereas scans during drug interruption due to proteinuria showed that the lesion was enhanced in the arterial phase. Finally, near‐complete response could be achieved as the best response. We successfully managed various adverse events including proteinuria and hypertension, and the patient was able to continue this lenvatinib therapy for more than 4 years with well‐controlled general condition. We report the first case of a patient with HCC in whom lenvatinib monotherapy demonstrated long‐term antitumor activity. Suggestive radiological changes reflecting intratumor vascularity as presented here should be considered in patients receiving lenvatinib for HCC.
Proteolytic regulation of the extent of dietary proteins with skin grape proanthocyanidin and anthocyanidin's interactions
Authors: Ben Abdallah Rim , Bautista‐Ortin Ana Belén , Ghazouani Tesnime , Talbi Wafa , Jiménez‐Martinez Maria D. , Gómez‐Plaza Encarna , Fattouch Sami
Published: November 2018

During technological processing, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins could be partly lost due to the complexation phenomena, affecting food and beverage nutritional properties, organoleptic properties and health‐promoting potentials. A common issue is encountered when processing food and beverage which is binding of phenolics to dietary proteins. The present investigation aims at evaluating the proteolysis contribution, using pure protease (Pepsin, 3000 units g−1), to protein–anthocyanidin and protein–proanthocyanidin interactions. Bovine serum albumin (BSA), ovalbumin (OVA) and casein (CAS) dietary protein models were used. High‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD) and size exclusion chromatography analyses proved that pepsin treatment significantly (P > 0.05) decreased the ratio of flavonoids’ interaction with tested proteins . The proteolysis reduced anthocyanidin interactions with CAS, OVA and BSA by 64.88%, 57.37% and 42.87% respectively. Similarly, proanthocyanidins interaction with CAS, OVA and BSA were reduced by 34.23%, 13.74% and 2.39% respectively. This study provides the basis to develop innovative technologies to limit protein–flavonoid complexation during food and beverage processing.
Vrille is required for larval moulting and metamorphosis of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Liu X. , Zhang S. , Shen Z. J. , Liu Y. , Li Z. , Liu X.
Published: November 2018

Vrille (Vri), a basic leucine zipper transcription factor, plays important roles in insect circadian clock regulation, tracheal development, proliferation, flight and metamorphosis. Here, Helicoverpa armigera was used as a model to investigate the role of Vri in larval moulting and metamorphosis. Sequence analysis results revealed that H. armigera Vri (HaVri) shares a high amino acid identity with other Lepidoptera Vri homologues. Spatial–temporal expression pattern data showed that HaVri expression was highly abundant in larval moulting and metamorphosis stages and was mainly expressed in the midgut and Malpighian tubule during metamorphosis. HaVri knockdown by RNA interference in the fourth‐instar larvae prevented larval moulting, and HaVri knockdown in the fifth‐instar larvae suppressed midgut remodelling and delayed or blocked metamorphosis. Further studies confirmed that 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) activated HaVri expression via its heterodimer receptors, ecdysone receptor (EcRB1) and ultraspiracle protein (USP1), whereas methoprene [juvenile hormone analogue (JHA)] promoted HaVri expression via its intracellular receptor methoprene‐tolerant (Met1). However, 20E and JHA can counteract each other in the activation of HaVri expression. Together, the present results suggested that HaVri was involved in larval moulting and metamorphosis and was regulated by 20E and JHA in H. armigera.
Camouflage and interception: how pathogens evade detection by intracellular nucleic acid sensors
Authors: Unterholzner Leonie , Almine Jessica F.
Published: November 2018

Intracellular DNA and RNA sensors play a vital part in the innate immune response to viruses and other intracellular pathogens, causing the secretion of type I interferons, cytokines and chemokines from infected cells. Pathogen RNA can be detected by retinoic‐acid inducible gene I‐like receptors in the cytosol, whereas cytosolic DNA is recognized by DNA sensors such as cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase (cGAS). The resulting local immune response, which is initiated within hours of infection, is able to eliminate many pathogens before they are able to establish an infection in the host. For this reason, all viruses, and some intracellular bacteria and protozoa, need to evade detection by nucleic acid sensors. Immune evasion strategies include the sequestration and modification of nucleic acids, and the inhibition or degradation of host factors involved in innate immune signalling. Large DNA viruses, such as herpesviruses, often use multiple viral proteins to inhibit signalling cascades at several different points; for instance herpes simplex virus 1 targets both DNA sensors cGAS and interferon‐γ‐inducible protein 16, as well as the adaptor protein STING (stimulator of interferon genes) and other signalling factors in the pathway. Viruses with a small genome encode only a few immunomodulatory proteins, but these are often multifunctional, such as the NS1 protein from influenza A virus, which inhibits RNA sensing in multiple ways. Intracellular bacteria and protozoa can also be detected by nucleic acid sensors. However, as the type I interferon response is not always beneficial for the host under these circumstances, some bacteria subvert, rather than evade, these signalling cascades for their own gain.
Effects of bisphenol A on the development of pigmented organs in the ascidian Phallusia mammillata
Authors: Messinetti Silvia , Mercurio Silvia , Pennati Roberta
Published: November 2018

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic compound that is used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins and is increasingly being released into the environment. BPA can act as a teratogenic substance and an endocrine disruptor, raising concerns about its impact on humans and wildlife. Thus, in the present work, we evaluated the effects of different concentrations of BPA on ontogenetic processes in the ascidian Phallusia mammillata. The phylogenetic position of ascidians, their cosmopolitan distribution in marine ecosystems, and multiple technical advantages associated with their biology make ascidians reliable model organisms for ecotoxicology bioassays. Our investigations showed that BPA did not affect the capability of ascidian sperm to fertilize eggs, but it impaired embryonic development and caused a phenotype that was characterized by a short and kinked tail. Larvae developed from BPA‐exposed embryos also presented malformations of pigmented organs such as altered pigment deposition, absence of one or both pigmented organs, and supernumerary organs. The co‐exposure with 4‐hydroxytamoxifen, an estrogen‐related receptor (ERR) inverse agonist, rescued the normal phenotype of pigmented organs, thus supporting the hypothesis that, in ascidians, BPA exerts its teratogenic effects mainly by binding to ERR, as in vertebrate models.
Why Extreme Floods are More Common than you Might Think
Authors: Towe Ross , Tawn Jonathan , Lamb Rob
Published: November 2018

Floods in England and Wales have the potential to cause billions of pounds of damage. You might think such extreme events are rare, but they are likely to occur more frequently than expected. By Ross Towe, Jonathan Tawn and Rob Lamb
Euroscepticism and the Early Warning System
Authors: Huysmans Martijn
Published: November 2018

With the Treaty of Lisbon, national Parliaments obtained a direct role in the legislative process of the European Union (EU). When the Commission releases a legislative proposal, each national Parliament has eight weeks to issue a Reasoned Opinion stating that the draft violates the EU principle of subsidiarity if they wish to do so. This article provides context on this so‐called Early Warning System (EWS), and then studies empirically when national Parliaments issue Reasoned Opinions under the EWS. A within‐between panel regression covering all 28 EU countries for 2010–16 leads to novel findings on the issuance of Reasoned Opinions. In particular, there is no robust statistical evidence that variations in public attitudinal euroscepticism in a country affect the number of Reasoned Opinions issued by its Parliament. In contrast, electoral euroscepticism as measured by the election of eurosceptic Parliaments is found to have a strongly significant across‐country effect on the number of Reasoned Opinions.
Is there an association between depression and periodontitis? A birth cohort study
Authors: Nascimento Gustavo G. , Gastal Márcia T. , Leite Fábio R. M. , Quevedo Luciana A. , Peres Karen G. , Peres Marco A. , Horta Bernardo L. , Barros Fernando C. , Demarco Flávio F.
Published: November 2018

Aim

To investigate the association between depression and periodontitis among adults enrolled in the 1982 Pelotas Birth Cohort, Brazil.

Materials and methods

Major depressive episode (MDE) and severity of depressive symptoms obtained in 2012 were considered the exposure of this study. In 2013, periodontitis, the outcome of interest, was clinically assessed and two different case definitions were used: the CDC/AAP and a combination of clinical attachment loss (CAL) and bleeding on probing (BOP) simultaneously. Serum levels of C‐reactive protein and frequency of dental flossing were defined as mediators while confounders comprised a set of variables collected throughout the life‐course of the participants. The parametric g‐formula was used to test the direct, indirect and total effects of depression on periodontitis.

Results

539 participants were clinically examined. Individuals with depressive symptoms presented higher risk of periodontitis (risk ratio [RR] 1.19). The presence of depressive symptoms was also associated with moderate/severe periodontitis (total effect RR 1.18). None of the associations was mediated by flossing or C‐reactive protein levels. Finally, neither the presence of depressive symptoms nor the presence of major depression was associated with the combination of CAL+BOP.

Conclusions

A positive association between depressive symptoms and periodontitis and moderate/severe periodontitis was found. MDE was not associated with periodontitis.
Studying the effect of Allium sativum and Bunium persicum essential oils on histamine production in Mahyaveh, an Iranian seasoned fish sauce
Authors: Hajimohammadi Bahador , Raeisi Mojtaba , Eftekhar Ebrahim , Mohebat Razieh , Saffari Azadeh
Published: November 2018

Mahyaveh is a traditional seasoned fish sauce in Iran that its histamine level is above the hazardous limit defined by food safety systems. This study aimed to add Allium sativum (A. sativum) and Bunium persicum (B. persicum) essential oils (EOs) at four concentrations including 0 (control), 0.1, 1, and 2%, as effective antimicrobial agents to monitor changes in the level of histamine at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days. Histamine ELISA Kit was used for histamine determination and mean values of histamine were compared using SPSS. The level of histamine in 0.1% B. persicum, 0.1% A. sativum, and control at day 30 was 8,403.05, 10,596.15, and 16,339.00 mg/kg, respectively. The results show that the level of histamine in all treatments containing A. sativum and B. persicum EOs at all concentration as well as all days was lower than the control group. Additionally, significantly lower level of histamine was observed in all B. persicum treatment group in compare to A. sativum treatment. While sensory evaluation was considered, no significant differences between the control and treatments in overall acceptance scores were seen. This study suggested that A. sativum and B. persicum EOs at 0.1% concentration could be useful strategy to reduce histamine level in the Mahyaveh.

Practical applications

Mahyaveh as a fermented fish sauce in Iran has been proved to contain high levels of histamine which is hazardous for public health. It is necessary to reduce the level of histamine. In the present work, we use two different natural products and monitored its effect on histamine content of Mahyaveh for 120 days. Our results indicated that the addition of low concentration of Allium sativum or Bunium persicum essential oils could effectively reduce histamine level in Mahyaveh without affecting sensory acceptance. This could be considered as practical strategy to reduce potential hazards of histamine in Mahyaveh or other fermented fish sauces.
The interobserver agreement of optical features used to differentiate benign from neoplastic biliary lesions assessed at balloon‐assisted cholangioscopy
Authors: Behary Jason , Keegan Mathew , Craig Philip I
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim

Balloon‐assisted cholangioscopy allows mucosal assessment of the biliary tree with pediatric endoscopes. No validated optical criteria exist to differentiate benign from neoplastic biliary lesions. We aimed to identify, validate, and revalidate optical features differentiating benign from neoplastic biliary lesions. Furthermore, we aimed to determine whether cholangioscopic appearance allows endoscopists to accurately differentiate benign from neoplastic biliary lesions.

Methods

Baseline: from 44 de‐identified balloon‐assisted cholangioscopy videos, a blinded investigator analyzed potential optical features distinguishing benign from neoplastic biliary lesions. Validation: during the initial “teaching phase,” 20 endoscopists viewed video clips of 11 optical features identified in the baseline study. At the subsequent “test phase,” 20 further video clips were assessed by the endoscopists blinded to clinical details and questionnaires completed for the presence or absence of optical features, favored diagnosis and diagnostic confidence. Revalidation: The six identified optical features from the validation study with at least moderate agreement were revalidated the same way 12 months later assessing 20 new lesions.

Results

Baseline: 11 optical features were found to differentiate benign from neoplastic biliary lesions. Validation and revalidation: six optical features demonstrated at least moderate interobserver agreement (irregular margin, dark mucosa, adherent mucous, papillary projections, tubular, or branched/disorganized surface structures). Endoscopists correctly diagnosed lesions as benign in 89% and neoplastic in 83%. When highly confident, endoscopists correctly diagnosed 96% of benign and 87% neoplastic lesions.

Conclusions

Six features were validated and revalidated to differentiate benign from neoplastic biliary lesions. When highly confident with a diagnosis, endoscopists usually differentiate benign from neoplastic biliary lesions.
Comparison of 12‐hour and 24‐hour oximetry recordings in preterm infants
Authors: Wellington Grace , Campbell Angela J , Elder Dawn E
Published: November 2018

Aim

To compare the overnight 12‐hour oximetry component of 24‐hour oximetry recordings with the complete 24‐h recording in terms of cardiorespiratory status data in preterm infants.

Methods

Preterm infants from the Wellington neonatal intensive care unit underwent a 24‐h pulse oximetry recording immediately prior to discharge home. Each recording was edited to resemble a 12‐h overnight recording and compared to the full 24‐h recording. Differences in a range of cardiorespiratory variables were assessed as to whether they were statistically significant and, if so, likely to be clinically significant.

Results

The nadirs for heart rate and SpO2 (both P < 0.001), the time spent <80% SpO2 (P = 0.017) and highest heart rate (P < 0.001) were significantly different between the two recordings. Only the heart rate nadir differed by more than 5%, suggesting that this may be of clinical significance (median (interquartile range) 54 (28–69) for 24‐h recording vs. 78 (54–96) for 12‐h recording).

Conclusion

The 24‐h oximetry reports were clinically similar to 12‐h recordings for the majority of variables, and therefore, we suggest that 12‐h oximetry studies are sufficient for determining cardiorespiratory status in infants.
Behavior in dogs with spontaneous hypothyroidism during treatment with levothyroxine
Authors: Hrovat Alenka , De Keuster Tiny , Kooistra Hans S. , Duchateau Luc , Oyama Mark A. , Peremans Kathelijne , Daminet Sylvie
Published: November 2018

Background

Thyroid hormone supplementation anecdotally has been described as a valid treatment option for dogs with aggression‐related problems. However, prospective, controlled, and blinded trials evaluating behavior and neurohormonal status in hypothyroid dogs during treatment with levothyroxine are lacking.

Objective

Levothyroxine supplementation will have a significant influence on the behavior and neurohormonal status of dogs with spontaneous hypothyroidism.

Animals

Twenty client‐owned dogs diagnosed with spontaneous hypothyroidism.

Methods

This prospective study was to evaluate the behavior of dogs, which was screened at initial presentation, and after 6 weeks, and 6 months of treatment with levothyroxine (starting dosage 10 μg/kg PO q12h) using the standardized Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C‐BARQ). At each time period, circulating serotonin and prolactin (PRL) concentrations were evaluated using a commercially validated ELISA kit and heterologous radioimmunoassay, respectively.

Results

After 6 weeks of thyroid hormone supplementation, C‐BARQ scores demonstrated a significant increase in activity of hypothyroid dogs (P < .01). No significant change in any of the behavioral signs was observed after 6 months of treatment. No significant difference in circulating concentrations of serotonin (P > .99 and P = .46) and PRL (P = .99 and P = .37) were noted between the 6‐week and 6‐month periods compared with baseline.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The results of this study indicate increased activity of hypothyroid dogs after 6 weeks of thyroid hormone supplementation. None of the hypothyroid dogs in this cohort showed a significant change in any of the evaluated behavioral signs and neurohormonal status after 6 months of thyroid hormone supplementation.
A novel SLC40A1 p.Y333H mutation with gain of function of ferroportin: A recurrent cause of haemochromatosis in China
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xu Anjian , Li Yanmeng , Zhao Suxian , Zhou Donghu , Wu Lina , Zhang Bei , Zhao Xinyan , Wang Yu , Wang Xiaoming , Duan Weijia , Wang Qianyi , Nan Yuemin , You Hong , Jia Jidong , Ou Xiaojuan , Huang Jian ,   on behalf of China Registry of Genetic/Metabolic Liver Diseases (CR‐GMLD) Group
Published: November 2018

Background & Aims

Haemochromatosis type 4, also known as ferroportin disease, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder caused by pathogenic mutations in the SLC40A1 gene, which encodes ferroportin 1 (FPN1). We have identified a novel SLC40A1 p.Y333H mutation in our previous study. In the present study, we tried to investigate the frequency and pathogenicity of the SLC40A1 p.Y333H mutation in haemochromatosis in China.

Methods

Patients were analysed for SLC40A1 p.Y333H as well as mutations in the other classic haemochromatosis‐related genes by Sanger sequencing. To analyse iron export capacity of the SLC40A1 p.Y333H mutant, the 293T cells were transfected with the SLC40A1 p.Y333H construct and then treated with hepcidin after exposure to ferric ammonium citrate. Cellular localization of mutant FPN1, expression of FPN1 and intracellular ferritin were analysed by immunofluorescence and Western blotting.

Results

Of 22 unrelated cases with primary iron overload, three cases (3/22, 13.6%) harboured the SLC40A1 p.Y333H, with no missense mutations identified in any other classical haemochromatosis‐related genes including HFE, HJV, HAMP and TFR2. Pedigree analysis showed that three probands and the son of one proband had haemochromatosis of stage 3, while the son of another proband with age of 16 showed elevated transferrin saturation but normal serum ferritin level. In vitro studies showed the mutant p.Y333H ferroportin was resistant to hepcidin, affecting the subsequent internalization and degradation of FPN1, and was associated with ferroportin gain of function.

Conclusions

The SLC40A1 p.Y333H mutation is associated with gain of function of ferroportin, representing one of the major aetiological factors of haemochromatosis in China.
Oxygen isotope signatures in bulk chondrules: Implications for the aqueous alteration and thermal metamorphism on the Allende CV3 parent body
Authors: Jabeen Iffat , Kusakabe Minoru , Nagao Keisuke , Ali Arshad
Published: November 2018

Precise triple oxygen isotope compositions of 32 Allende bulk chondrules (ABCs) are determined using laser‐assisted fluorination mass spectrometry. Various chemically characterized chondrule types show ranges in δ18O that vary from −4.80‰ to +1.10‰ (porphyritic olivine; PO, N = 15), −3.10‰ to +1.50‰ (porphyritic olivine pyroxene; POP, N = 9), −3.40‰ to +2.60‰ (barred olivine; BO, N = 4), and −3.60‰ to +1.30‰ (porphyritic pyroxene; PP, N = 3). Oxygen isotope data of these chondrules yield a regression line referred to as the Allende bulk chondrule line (ABC line, slope = 0.86 ± 0.02). Most of our data fall closer to the primitive chondrule minerals line (PCM line, slope = 0.987 ± 0.013) and the carbonaceous chondrite anhydrous mineral line (CCAM line, slope = 0.94 ± 0.02) than the Allende anhydrous mineral line (AAML, slope = 1.00 ± 0.01) with a maximum δ18O value (+2.60‰) observed in a BO chondrule and a minimum δ18O value (−4.80‰) shown by a PO chondrule. Similarly, these chondrules depict variable ∆17O values that range from −5.65‰ to −3.25‰ (PO), −4.60‰ to −2.80‰ (POP), −4.95‰ to −3.00‰ (BO), −5.30‰ to −3.20‰ (PP), and −4.90‰ (CC). A simple model is proposed for the Allende CV3 chondrite with reference to the AAML and PCM line to illustrate the isotopic variations occurred due to the aqueous alteration processes. The estimated temperature ranging from 10 to 130 °C (mean ~60 °C) implies that the secondary mineralization in Allende happened in a warmer and relatively dry environment compared to Murchison. We further propose that thermal metamorphism could have dehydrated the Allende matrix at temperatures between >150 °C and <600 °C.
The atmospheric entry of fine‐grained micrometeorites: The role of volatile gases in heating and fragmentation
Authors: Suttle M. D. , Genge M. J. , Folco L. , Van Ginneken M. , Lin Q. , Russell S. S. , Najorka J.
Published: November 2018

The early stages of atmospheric entry are investigated in four large (250–950 μm) unmelted micrometeorites (three fine‐grained and one composite), derived from the Transantarctic Mountain micrometeorite collection. These particles have abundant, interconnected, secondary pore spaces which form branching channels and show evidence of enhanced heating along their channel walls. Additionally, a micrometeorite with a double‐walled igneous rim is described, suggesting that some particles undergo volume expansion during entry. This study provides new textural data which links together entry heating processes known to operate inside micrometeoroids, thereby generating a more comprehensive model of their petrographic evolution. Initially, flash heated micrometeorites develop a melt layer on their exterior; this igneous rim migrates inwards. Meanwhile, the particle core is heated by the decomposition of low‐temperature phases and by volatile gas release. Where the igneous rim acts as a seal, gas pressures rise, resulting in the formation of interconnected voids and higher particle porosities. Eventually, the igneous rim is breached and gas exchange with the atmosphere occurs. This mechanism replaces inefficient conductive rim‐to‐core thermal gradients with more efficient particle‐wide heating, driven by convective gas flow. Interconnected voids also increase the likelihood of particle fragmentation during entry and, may therefore explain the rarity of large fine‐grained micrometeorites among collections.
Progress and inequalities in infant and young child feeding practices in India between 2006 and 2016
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Hong , Avula Rasmi , Headey Derek , Tran Lan Mai , Ruel Marie T. , Menon Purnima
Published: November 2018

Limited evidence exists on socio‐economic status (SES) inequalities in infant and young child feeding (IYCF) in India. We examine trends and changes in inequalities for IYCF practices over 2006–2016 and identify factors that may explain differences in IYCF across SES groups. We use data from the 2015–2016 and 2005–2006 National Family Health Surveys (n = 112,133 children < 24 months). We constructed SES quintiles (Q) and assessed inequalities using concentration and slope indices. We applied path analyses to examine the relationship between SES inequalities, intermediate determinants, and IYCF. Breastfeeding improved significantly over 2006–2016: from 23% to 42% for early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) and 46% to 55% for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). Minimum dietary diversity (MDD) improved modestly (15% to 21%), but adequate diet did not change (~9%). Large SES gaps (Q5–Q1) were found for EIBF (8–17%) and EBF (−15% to −10%) in 2006; these gaps closed in 2016. The most inequitable practices in 2006 were MDD and iron‐rich foods (Q5 ~ 2–4 times higher than Q1); these gaps narrowed in 2016, but levels are low across SES groups. Factors along the path from SES inequalities to IYCF practices included health and nutrition services, information access, maternal education, number of children < 5 years, and urban/rural residence. The improvements in breastfeeding and narrowing of equity gaps in IYCF practices in India are significant achievements. However, ensuring the health and well‐being of India's large birth cohort will require more efforts to further improve breastfeeding, and concerted actions to address all aspects of complementary feeding across SES quintiles.
Epidemiology of anaemia in children, adolescent girls, and women in Bhutan
Authors: Campbell Rebecca K. , Aguayo Víctor M. , Kang Yunhee , Dzed Laigden , Joshi Vandana , Waid Jillian L. , Gupta Suvadra Datta , Haselow Nancy , West, Keith P.
Published: November 2018

Anaemia inhibits health and development in Bhutan. We estimated anaemia prevalence and explored risk factors in children and women using data from Bhutan's National Nutrition Survey 2015. Prevalence was calculated using life‐stage‐specific cut‐offs adjusted for altitude and survey design. Risk factors were evaluated in modified Poisson regressions. Anaemia affected 42%, 29%, 36%, and 28% of children, adolescent girls, and non‐pregnant and pregnant women, respectively. Risk of anaemia was greater in children who were younger (RR 2.0, 95% CI [1.7, 2.3] and RR 1.9, 95% CI [1.6, 2.3], respectively, for 12–23 and 6–11 vs. 24–59 months), male (1.2, 1.1–1.4, ref.: female), and stunted (1.2, 1.0–1.3, ref.: height‐for‐age ≥ −2z). Older (15–19 years) versus younger (10–14 years) adolescents were at higher risk (1.5, 1.2–1.8), as were adolescents living at home versus at school (1.2, 0.9–1.6) and those working versus studying (1.3, 1.0–1.7). Among adult women, anaemia risk increased with age (1.2, 1.0–1.4 and 1.3, 1.1–1.5, for 30–39 and 40–49, respectively, vs. 20–29 years) and was higher for women without schooling (1.1, 1.0–1.3, vs. primary schooling), who were unmarried or separated (1.4, 1.2–1.7 and 1.3, 1.1–1.6, respectively, vs. married), without a child <5 years (1.1, 1.0–1.3), and lacking improved sanitation (1.1, 1.0–1.3). High coverage of antennal iron and folic acid supplementation may contribute to the lower prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women and women with young children. Expansion of iron supplementation programmes, fortification, and other strategies to improve dietary iron intake may reduce the prevalence of anaemia, but causes of anaemia other than iron deficiency (e.g., thalassemias) should also be investigated.
Infant and young child feeding practices and nutritional status in Bhutan
Authors: Campbell Rebecca K. , Aguayo Víctor M. , Kang Yunhee , Dzed Laigden , Joshi Vandana , Waid Jillian , Gupta Suvadra Datta , Haselow Nancy , West, Keith P.
Published: November 2018

In South Asia, childhood undernutrition persists while overweight is increasing. Internationally recommended infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices promote healthy nutritional status; however, little is known about IYCF in Bhutan, investigated here using 2015 National Nutrition Survey data. WHO/UNICEF IYCF indicators, anthropometry and household socio‐economic status were available for 441 children <24 months. Stunting, wasting, and underweight prevalence (<−2Z length‐for‐age [LAZ], weight‐for‐age, [WAZ] and weight‐for‐length [WLZ], respectively) were 15%, 9%, and 5%, respectively, whereas overweight (WLZ >2) prevalence was 6%. In survey‐design‐adjusted analyses, 52% of mothers of 0‐ to 5‐month olds reported exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), with EBF less common for girls than boys (OR: 0.2 [95% CI: 0.1–0.9]). Although 61% of children were breastfed at 2 years and 75% of children >6 months met a minimum daily meal frequency, only 18% of children 6–23 months met minimum dietary diversity. IYCF was unassociated with risk of stunting, wasting, or underweight, possibly due to relatively low prevalence of anthropometric failure and small sample size. However, currently‐breastfed children were less often overweight [OR: ~0.1 (95% upper limit ≤1.0)]. Neither breastfeeding nor most complementary feeding practices differed by socio‐economic status, but children in the highest two fifth of a wealth index had 7.8 (1.3–46.9) and 5.3 (1.1–25.2) times greater odds than children in the lowest fifth of meeting minimum dietary diversity criteria. Low rates of EBF, given possible protection of breastfeeding against overweight, and inadequate dietary diversity offer evidence to guide future program interventions to improve nutritional status of young children.
Potential limits to the benefits of admixture during biological invasion
Authors: Barker Brittany S. , Cocio Janelle E. , Anderson Samantha R. , Braasch Joseph E. , Cang Feng A. , Gillette Heather D. , Dlugosch Katrina M.
Published: November 2018

Species introductions often bring together genetically divergent source populations, resulting in genetic admixture. This geographic reshuffling of diversity has the potential to generate favourable new genetic combinations, facilitating the establishment and invasive spread of introduced populations. Observational support for the superior performance of admixed introductions has been mixed, however, and the broad importance of admixture to invasion questioned. Under most underlying mechanisms, admixture's benefits should be expected to increase with greater divergence among and lower genetic diversity within source populations, though these effects have not been quantified in invaders. We experimentally crossed source populations differing in divergence in the invasive plant Centaurea solstitialis. Crosses resulted in many positive (heterotic) interactions, but fitness benefits declined and were ultimately negative at high source divergence, with patterns suggesting cytonuclear epistasis. We explored the literature to assess whether such negative epistatic interactions might be impeding admixture at high source population divergence. Admixed introductions reported for plants came from sources with a wide range of genetic variation, but were disproportionately absent where there was high genetic divergence among native populations. We conclude that while admixture is common in species introductions and often happens under conditions expected to be beneficial to invaders, these conditions may be constrained by predictable negative genetic interactions, potentially explaining conflicting evidence for admixture's benefits to invasion.
Patterns of transposable element variation and clinality in Drosophila
Authors: Adrion Jeffrey R. , Begun David J. , Hahn Matthew W.
Published: November 2018

Natural populations often exist in spatially diverse environments and may experience variation in the strength and targets of natural selection across their ranges. Drosophila provides an excellent opportunity to study the effects of spatially varying selection in natural populations, as both Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans live across a wide range of environments in North America. Here, we characterize patterns of variation in transposable elements (TEs) from six populations of D. melanogaster and nine populations of D. simulans sampled from multiple latitudes across North America. We find a nearly twofold excess of TEs in D. melanogaster relative to D. simulans, with this difference largely driven by TEs segregating at the lowest and highest allele frequencies. We find no effect of latitude on either total TE abundance or average TE allele frequencies in either species. Moreover, we show that, as a class of mutations, the most common patterns of TE variation do not coincide with the sampled latitudinal gradient, nor are they consistent with local adaptation acting on environmental differences found in the most extreme latitudes. We also do not find a cline in ancestry for North American D. melanogaster—for either TEs or single nucleotide polymorphisms—suggesting a limited role for demography in shaping patterns of TE variation. Though we find little evidence for widespread clinality among TEs in Drosophila, this does not necessarily imply a limited role for TEs in adaptation. We discuss the need for improved models of adaptation to large‐scale environmental heterogeneity, and how these might be applied to TEs.
TALE‐carrying bacterial pathogens trap host nuclear import receptors for facilitation of infection of rice
Authors: Hui Shugang , Shi Yarui , Tian Jingjing , Wang Li , Li Yueyue , Wang Shiping , Yuan Meng
Published: November 2018

Many plant‐pathogenic Xanthomonas rely on the secretion of virulence transcription activator‐like effector (TALE) proteins into plant cells to activate plant susceptibility genes to cause disease. The process is dependent on the binding of TALEs to specific elements of host target gene promoters in the plant nucleus. However, it is unclear how TALEs, after injection into host cells, are transferred from the plant cytoplasm into the plant nucleus, which is the key step of successful pathogen infection. Here, we show that the host plant cytoplasm/nuclear shuttle proteins OsImpα1a and OsImpα1b are key components for infection by the TALE‐carrying bacterial pathogens Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc), the causal agents of bacterial leaf blight and bacterial leaf streak, respectively, in rice. Direct interaction between the second nuclear localization signal of TALEs of Xoo or Xoc and OsImpα1a or OsImpα1b is required for the transportation of TALEs into the nucleus. Conversely, suppression of the expression of OsImpα1a and OsImpα1b genes attenuates the shuttling of TALEs from the cytoplasm into the nucleus and the induction of susceptibility genes, thus improving the broad‐spectrum disease resistance of rice to Xoo and Xoc. These results provide an applicable strategy for the improvement of resistance to TALE‐carrying pathogens in rice by moderate suppression of the expression of plant nuclear import receptor proteins.
Predicting risk of pulmonary infection in patients with primary membranous nephropathy on immunosuppressive therapy: The AIM‐7C score
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhang Yan , Ping Fen , Zhao Huizhi , Yan Li , Lin Qiongzhen , Zhang Hui
Published: November 2018

Aim

Pulmonary infection (PI) is the leading cause of death in patients with primary membranous nephropathy on immunosuppressive therapy. A rating score was thus developed to foresee the risk of PI in such patients.

Methods

We reviewed the charts of the pertinent patients treated during the past 3 years either with (n = 29) or without PI (n = 304). Clinical and laboratory data, the usage of cyclosporin A (CysA), and occurrence of PI were recorded. Cox regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were respectively used to identify the risk factors and assess their clinical relevance.

Results

The incidence of PI was 8.7% at 82.1 ± 20.9 days after the initiation of CysA regimen with a male predominance superimposed on smoking. Factors associated with PI were immunoglobulin G titer (hazard ratio = 4.56, 95% confidence interval = 2.31–8.95), plasma CysA concentration (3.71, 1.87–6.18), serum creatinine level (2.57, 1.31–5.82), CD4+/CD8+ ratio (2.36, 1.26–6.06) and plasma albumin content (1.53, 1.05–3.25). These five factors, along with the male gender and smoking status, were granted different ratings after examined by the ROC curve and constituted the anticipating pulmonary infection in primary membranous nephropathy receiving CysA (AIM‐7C) score. Accordingly, the respective percent composition of the infection and non‐infection group was 0, 11.1%, 72.2%, 16.7% and 91.7%, 8.3%, 0, 0 in the order of low, moderate, high and utmost risk. Furthermore, eight new cases of PI were successfully predicted.

Conclusion

Our AIM‐7C score may therefore help to predict the onset and facilitate the prevention of PI, a potentially life‐threatening complication of the immunosuppressive therapy.
Phytophthora urerae sp. nov., a new clade 1c relative of the Irish famine pathogen Phytophthora infestans from South America
Authors: Grünwald N. J. , Forbes G. A. , Perez‐Barrera W. , Stewart J. E. , Fieland V. J. , Larsen M. M.
Published: November 2018

An unknown Phytophthora species was discovered in the central Peruvian Andes on blighted foliage of the native South American plant species Urera lacineata. Urera is a genus of native flowering shrubs in the nettle family Urticaceae. This new taxon Phytophthora urerae sp. nov. is herewith formally described based on extensive morphological analysis, phylogenetic analysis of nuclear and mitochondrial loci, and AFLP analysis. Phytophthora urerae sp. nov. is a close relative of the Irish famine pathogen, Phytophthora infestans, and only the third clade 1c taxon described from South America to date. In contrast to the clade 1c taxon Phytophthora andina, first described in South America as a hybrid, P. urerae does not appear to be a hybrid based on cloning and sequencing nuclear loci. Findings of new species in South America may provide novel insights into the origin and evolutionary history of clade 1c Phytophthora species.
High‐intensity non‐invasive ventilation in stable hypercapnic COPD: Evidence of efficacy and practical advice
Authors: van der Leest Sietske , Duiverman Marieke L.
Published: November 2018

Patients with end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently develop chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure (CHRF), with disabling symptoms and poor survival. The use of long‐term nocturnal non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) to treat CHRF in COPD has long been subject of debate due to conflicting evidence. However, since the introduction of high‐intensity NIV (HI‐NIV) in COPD, physiological and clinical benefits have been shown. HI‐NIV refers to specific ventilator settings used for NIV aimed at achieving normocapnia or the lowest partial arterial carbon dioxide pressure (PaCO2) values as possible. This review will provide an overview of existing evidence of the efficacy of HI‐NIV stable COPD patients with CHRF. Secondly, we will discuss hypotheses underlying NIV benefit in stable hypercapnic COPD, providing insight into better patient selection and hopefully more individually titrated HI‐NIV. Finally, we will provide practical advice on how to initiate and follow‐up patients on HI‐NIV, with special emphasis on monitoring that should be available during the initiation and follow‐up of HI‐NIV, and will discuss more extended monitoring techniques that could improve HI‐NIV treatment in the future.
Do Rising Top Incomes Spur Economic Growth? Evidence From OECD Countries Based on a Novel Identification Strategy
Authors: Herwartz Helmut , Walle Yabibal M.
Published: November 2018

We investigate the causal relationship between the growth rate of top income shares and economic growth in 12 OECD economies for the period 1950–2010. To analyze patterns of short‐ and long‐run causality, we build upon recent advances in structural‐vector autoregressive modeling of non‐Gaussian systems. This framework allows us to discriminate between rival transmission channels by means of dependence tests, since independent shocks are unique for a particular causation pattern. We consider the share of income accruing to the top 1 percent (1), to the next 9 percent (9), and to the top decile (10). While structural models display considerable heterogeneity across countries, mean group and pooled results strongly favor a specific transmission pattern. In particular, 1 has a long‐run positive impact on economic development. This result, which is also confirmed by identified impulse‐response functions, is particularly evident for the post‐1980 period.
Public Bureaucracy and Climate Change Adaptation
Authors: Biesbroek Robbert , Peters B. Guy , Tosun Jale
Published: November 2018

Despite recognizing the importance of public bureaucracies in governing climate change, our knowledge of how their behavioral and structural characteristics influence climate change adaptation policy is limited. This article provides an introduction to a collection of studies that seeks to explore the link between climate change adaptation and public bureaucracies, and to distill lessons for the scholarship on adaptation as well as the persistent debates on the role of administrative traditions in public policy. The articles in the special issue demonstrate that how state and social actors are organized, the ways in which scientific advice enters bureaucracies, and uniformity in the making and implementing of policy matter for adaptation policy. We conclude that the concept of administrative traditions is still necessary for understanding the choices made by public actors, but contend that other factors such as economic motives and political willingness should be considered more critically in the literature on administrative traditions.
aPCC vs. rFVIIa for the treatment of bleeding in patients with acquired haemophilia – a cost‐effectiveness model
Authors: Kim Chong H. , Simmons Sierra C. , Bui Chau M. , Jiang Ning , Pham Huy P.
Published: November 2018

Background

Acquired haemophilia A (AHA) is an autoimmune bleeding disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Bleeding AHA patients with high titre inhibitors can be treated with either activated prothrombin complex concentrate (aPCC) or recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa). Given that both replacement therapies have inherent benefits and limitations, a cost‐effectiveness analysis (CEA) was performed in this population to compare rFVIIa with aPCC.

Methods

In high‐titered AHA patients with bleeding treated with either aPCC or rFVIIa, during a 5‐day study period, a Markov model was developed such that these patients were transitioned into four different health states: (1) continuous bleeding, (2) thrombosis, (3) stop bleeding and (4) death, with states (2), (3) and (4) modelled as absorbing states. Model parameters, including probabilities, health utility index and costs, were gathered from the medical literature, except for the costs of aPCC and rFVIIa, which were obtained from our institutional data.

Results

During the 5‐day period, the total treatment cost of rFVIIa was substantially more than the cost of aPCC ($13 635 vs. $1741). The average quality‐adjusted life days (QALDs) gained for rFVIIa were slightly lower compared to aPCC (4·08 vs. 4·09). Overall, aPCC prevailed over rFVIIa. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the model across tested ranges of all input variables.

Conclusion

In high‐titered AHA patients with bleeding, aPCC is a cost‐effective treatment option when compared to rFVIIa. Thus, aPCC may be considered in these patients, if available, and provided there is no clinical contraindication.