bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abundance leads to more species, particularly in complex habitats: a test of the increased population size hypotheses in bird communities
Authors: Seoane Javier , Laiolo Paola , Obeso José R.
Published: October 2016

Aim

To examine the relationship between abundance and species richness in a bird community in order to (a) test the effects of sampling and three increased population size hypotheses and (b) assess the effects of energetic constraints (climate and habitat) on the relationship.

Location

The Cantabrian Mountains (c. 16,000 km2), Spain, within the temperate broadleaf and mixed forests biogeographical region.

Methods

Species richness and individual abundances from a survey of 1106 10‐min 100‐m radius bird point counts spanning 5 years were modelled with generalized additive models, controlling for habitat and climate. Individual‐based rarefaction curves were built to facilitate the comparison among habitats.

Results

Species richness depended more on the number of individuals than on habitat or climate and increased with abundance along a nonlinear, strictly monotonic curve. The nature of this relationship varied with habitat type (contradicting sampling effect) and was not stronger for rarer species (contradicting the ‘more‐individuals hypothesis’). Community specialization and nestedness were related to climate constraints (supporting the niche‐specialization hypotheses).

Main conclusions

Our analyses strongly suggest that niche packing, particularly through niche breadth, determines the way that energy inputs translate into species richness, arguably through the abundance of individuals.
Assembling a species–area curve through colonization, speciation and human‐mediated introduction
Authors: Economo Evan P. , Janda Milan , Guénard Benoit , Sarnat Eli
Published: October 2016

Aim

The fundamental biogeographical processes of colonization, speciation and extinction shape island biotas in space–time. On oceanic islands, area and isolation affect these processes and resulting biodiversity patterns. In the Anthropocene, a new human‐mediated colonization dynamic is altering insular ecosystems world‐wide. Here, we test predictions about the roles of archipelago area and isolation in structuring ant diversity patterns through effects on both natural and anthropogenic biogeographical processes.

Location

Tropical Pacific islands.

Methods

We compiled a comprehensive data set of ant faunal compositions across tropical Pacific archipelagos. Using regression analysis we evaluated the bivariate and interactive effects of area and isolation on the number of colonizing lineages, native species, endemic species, exotic species and total richness in the archipelago.

Results

There is a strong species–area effect and a much more modest isolation effect on total ant species richness across the Pacific archipelagos. The number of colonizing lineages of each archipelago is strongly driven by the isolation of the archipelago. Endemic species are present in large archipelagos of low and intermediate isolation. The most remote archipelagos are nearly devoid of endemic lineages and their ant faunas are largely composed of Pacific Tramp species and exotics brought from outside the Pacific region.

Main conclusions

The prominent species–area curve in Pacific ants emerged over time through multiple processes. The colonization of lineages is determined primarily by isolation, with few or no lineages reaching remote archipelagos. Cladogenesis mediates the isolation effect and increases the area effect through the differential radiation of lineages in large archipelagos. In the Anthropocene, the assembly of the species–area relationship has accelerated dramatically through human‐mediated colonization. Overall, our results support a view that species–area curves reflect regulating limits on species richness that scale with area, but that multiple biogeographical processes can occur to achieve these limits.
Sitagliptin added to stable insulin therapy with or without metformin in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shankar R Ravi , Bao Yuqian , Han Ping , Hu Ji , Ma Jianhua , Peng Yongde , Wu Fan , Xu Lei , Engel Samuel S , Jia Weiping
Published: October 2016

Introduction

We evaluated the tolerability and efficacy of the addition of sitagliptin in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving stable insulin therapy alone or in combination with metformin.

Materials and Methods

A total of 467 patients with inadequate glycemic control on insulin (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] ≥7.5% and ≤11%) were randomized 1:1 to receive sitagliptin 100 mg once daily or a matching placebo for 24 weeks. Randomization was stratified based on metformin use (on or not on metformin) and type of insulin (pre‐mixed vs intermediate‐/long‐acting) at screening. The primary end‐point was the change from baseline at week 24 in HbA1c.

Results

The addition of sitagliptin led to a significantly (P < 0.001) greater week 24 HbA1c reduction (0.7%) compared with the reduction (0.3%) with placebo. A significantly (P = 0.013) greater proportion of patients taking sitagliptin (16%) had an HbA1c of <7.0% at week 24 compared with placebo (8%). The addition of sitagliptin significantly (P < 0.001) reduced 2‐h post‐meal glucose by 26.5 mg/dL (1.5 mmol/L) relative to placebo. Reductions from baseline in fasting plasma glucose were observed in both the sitagliptin (14.4 mg/dL reduction) and placebo (10.7 mg/dL reduction) groups; the between‐group difference was not significant. A total of 64 (27.4%) patients taking sitagliptin and 51 (21.9%) taking placebo experienced adverse events of hypoglycemia (symptomatic or asymptomatic). Neither group had a significant change from baseline in bodyweight.

Conclusions

After 24 weeks, sitagliptin added to stable insulin therapy (±metformin) was generally well tolerated and improved glycemic control in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Microbiome in healthy skin, update for dermatologists
Authors: Dréno B. , Araviiskaia E. , Berardesca E. , Gontijo G. , Sanchez Viera M. , Xiang L.F. , Martin R. , Bieber T.
Published: October 2016

The skin is a complex barrier organ made of a symbiotic relationship between microbial communities and host tissue via complex signals provided by the innate and the adaptive immune systems. It is constantly exposed to various endogenous and exogenous factors which impact this balanced system potentially leading to inflammatory skin conditions comprising infections, allergies or autoimmune diseases. Unlike the gut and stool microbiome which has been studied and described for many years, investigations on the skin or scalp microbiome only started recently. Researchers in microbiology and dermatology started using modern methods such as pyrosequencing assays of bacterial 16S rRNA genes to identify and characterize the different microorganisms present on the skin, to evaluate the bacterial diversity and their relative abundance and to understand how microbial diversity may contribute to skin health and dermatological conditions. This article aims to provide an overview on the knowledge about the skin microbiota, the microbiome and their importance in dermatology.
Description of a New Freshwater Ciliate Epistylis wuhanensis n. sp. (Ciliophora, Peritrichia) from China, with a Focus on Phylogenetic Relationships within Family Epistylididae
Authors: Wang Zhe , Zhou Tong , Guo Qingxiang , Gu Zemao
Published: October 2016

Two populations of Epistylis wuhanensis n. sp., a new freshwater peritrich ciliate, were isolated from different freshwater ponds located in Hubei, China. Their morphological characteristics were investigated using live observation, protargol impregnation, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Specimens from the two populations showed identical arrangement of the infraciliature and identical small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene and ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 sequences. The zooids present bell‐shaped and 90–175 × 27–54 μm in vivo. Macronucleus is variable in shape and located in the middle of cell. Pellicle is usually smooth with 139–154 and 97–105 striations above and below the trochal band, respectively. SSU rRNA gene and ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 sequences of E. wuhanensis n. sp. did not match any available sequences in GenBank. Phylogenetically, E. wuhanensis n. sp. clusters with the other Epistylis within the family Epistylididae, but is distinct from the major clades of Epistylis. Above all, the morphological characteristics and molecular analyses support that the present Epistylis is a new species. Expanded phylogenetic analyses of sessilids based on both SSU rRNA gene sequences and ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 sequences reveal that the genus Epistylis consists of Epistylis morphospecies and taxonomic revision of the genus is needed.
Medical Foster Homes: Can the Adult Foster Care Model Substitute for Nursing Home Care?
Authors: Levy Cari , Whitfield Emily A.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To compare characteristics, healthcare use, and costs of care of veterans in the rapidly expanding Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical foster home (MFH) with those of three other VHA long‐term care (LTC) programs.

Design

Descriptive, unmatched study.

Setting

VHA MFHs, home‐based primary care (HBPC), community living centers (CLCs), and community nursing homes (CNHs).

Participants

Veterans newly enrolled in one of the four LTC settings in calendar years 2010 or 2011.

Measurements

Using VA and Medicare data from fiscal years 2010 and 2011, demographic characteristics, healthcare use, and costs of 388 veterans in MFHs were compared with 26,037 of those in HBPC, 5,355 in CLCs, and 5,517 in CNHs in the year before and the year after enrollment.

Results

Veterans enrolled in the MFH program were more likely to be unmarried than those in other LTC programs and had higher levels of comorbidity and frailty than veterans receiving HBPC but had similar levels of comorbidity, frailty, and healthcare use as those in CLCs and CNHs. MFH veterans incurred lower costs than those in CNHs and CLCs.

Conclusion

MFHs served a distinct subset of veterans with levels of comorbidity and frailty similar to those of veterans cared for in CLCs and CNHs at costs that were comparable to or lower than those of the VHA. Propensity‐matched comparisons will be necessary to confirm these findings.
Paper, Power, and Procedure: Reflections on Amazonian Appropriations of Bureaucracy and Documents
Authors: Allard Olivier , Walker Harry
Published: October 2016

The creative and ever‐expanding appropriations of bureaucracy and documents on the part of Amazonian peoples today transcend simple dichotomies between orality and literacy, state and non‐state power, and domination and resistance. The papers collected here highlight the specific forms taken by such engagements and the ways in which they assume a key role in local political processes, offering new perspectives on issues ranging from the everyday workings of the state to local theories of language and materiality. In this introductory essay we draw particular attention to the importance of documents as mediators which facilitate new forms of communication; to the prevalence of bureaucratic magic and ritual; and to the ways in which regional bureaucratic and documentary processes are closely linked to both wealth and violence.
Mapping the spatial changes in Lake Volta using multitemporal remote sensing approach
Authors: Ghansah Benjamin , Asare Yaw M. , Tchao Eric T. , Forkuo Eric K.
Published: October 2016

Lake Volta is the world's largest man‐made lake by surface area, and the fourth largest by water volume. Located completely within Ghana, it has a surface area of about 8502 km2 (3283 square miles). Like many other lakes on the African continent, Lake Volta is a major natural resource for Ghana, storing water for the operation of the hydroelectric dam, water supply for domestic, agricultural and industrial purposes, habitat for diverse aquatic species, an avenue for recreational activities, means of navigation between the north and south parts of the country, and a climate modulator for the tropical region. The lake has experienced variable water level and surface area changes attributable to climate change and excessive water abstractions. Using histogram thresholding techniques, this study produced binary images and vector maps of the lake. Spatial extent mapping of the lake using Landsat TM 1990, ETM + 2000 and ETM + 2007 images indicated the lake experienced both increased and decreased surface area changes during the study period. The lake's surface area varied by about 197 km2 between 1990 and 2007, with the water level fluctuating between ±7 m. Factors thought to be contributing to these changes include human factors (regulated flows, deforestation, increased water abstractions and pollution) as well as natural phenomenon (climate change, water run‐off and subsequent sediment transport).
Experimental petrology of the Tissint meteorite: Redox estimates, crystallization curves, and evaluation of petrogenetic models
Authors: Castle Nicholas , Herd Christopher D. K.
Published: October 2016

Tissint is an olivine‐phyric shergottite from an incompatible element depleted Martian mantle source. Oxythermobarometry applied to Tissint mineral phases demonstrates that the Tissint magma underwent an increase in oxygen fugacity, from ~3.5 log units below the quarz‐fayalite‐magnetite (QFM) buffer during the early stages of crystallization, to QFM−1.4 during the latter stages. This is the first time that such an oxidation event has been observed in a depleted shergottite. The reason for the oxidation event is unclear; however, calculations using the MELTS thermodynamic model suggest that auto‐oxidation is insufficient to cause more than ~1 log unit of oxidation, and therefore an external oxidation mechanism—such as oxidation by degassing—is required. If volatiles are responsible for the oxidation, then it indicates that volatiles are not exclusively tied to the enriched Martian mantle reservoir. A series of experiments using the Tissint parental magma were carried out under fixed (isothermal) or variable (cooling rate) temperature control, and at either reducing (QFM−3.2) or oxidizing (QFM−1) redox conditions. The observed liquid line of descent supports a potential genetic relationship between basaltic shergottites and olivine‐phyric shergottites. A peritectic relation where olivine is resorbed to form pyroxene is favored by increased oxygen fugacity; if oxidation during crystallization is more common than presently believed, it may explain why olivine is typically anhedral in olivine‐phyric shergottites. Results from a cooling‐rate experiment in which the oxygen fugacity was changed during the latter stages of crystallization resulted in olivine with a Cr compositional profile consistent with oxidized isothermal experiments, despite forming primarily under reducing conditions. A similar profile is observed in Tissint olivines, consistent with its redox history. Our results provide insights into the potential influence of oxidation events on the compositional zoning of minor or trace elements in olivine in olivine‐phyric basalts.
Starvation and recovery in the deep‐sea methanotroph Methyloprofundus sedimenti
Authors: Tavormina Patricia L. , Kellermann Matthias Y. , Antony Chakkiath Paul , Tocheva Elitza I. , Dalleska Nathan F. , Jensen Ashley J. , Valentine David L. , Hinrichs Kai‐Uwe , Jensen Grant J. , Dubilier Nicole , Orphan Victoria J.
Published: October 2016

In the deep ocean, the conversion of methane into derived carbon and energy drives the establishment of diverse faunal communities. Yet specific biological mechanisms underlying the introduction of methane‐derived carbon into the food web remain poorly described, due to a lack of cultured representative deep‐sea methanotrophic prokaryotes. Here, the response of the deep‐sea aerobic methanotroph Methyloprofundus sedimenti to methane starvation and recovery was characterized. By combining lipid analysis, RNA analysis, and electron cryotomography, it was shown that M. sedimenti undergoes discrete cellular shifts in response to methane starvation, including changes in headgroup‐specific fatty acid saturation levels, and reductions in cytoplasmic storage granules. Methane starvation is associated with a significant increase in the abundance of gene transcripts pertinent to methane oxidation. Methane reintroduction to starved cells stimulates a rapid, transient extracellular accumulation of methanol, revealing a way in which methane‐derived carbon may be routed to community members. This study provides new understanding of methanotrophic responses to methane starvation and recovery, and lays the initial groundwork to develop Methyloprofundus as a model chemosynthesizing bacterium from the deep sea.
The Group A Streptococcus serotype M2 pilus plays a role in host cell adhesion and immune evasion
Authors: Tsai Jia‐Yun C. , Loh Jacelyn M. S. , Clow Fiona , Lorenz Natalie , Proft Thomas
Published: October 2016

Group A Streptococcus (GAS), or Streptococcus pyogenes, is a human pathogen that causes diseases ranging from skin and soft tissue infections to severe invasive diseases, such as toxic shock syndrome. Each GAS strain carries a particular pilus type encoded in the variable fibronectin‐binding, collagen‐binding, T antigen (FCT) genomic region. Here, we describe the functional analysis of the serotype M2 pilus encoded in the FCT‐6 region. We found that, in contrast to other investigated GAS pili, the ancillary pilin 1 lacks adhesive properties. Instead, the backbone pilin is important for host cell adhesion and binds several host factors, including fibronectin and fibrinogen. Using a panel of recombinant pilus proteins, GAS gene deletion mutants and Lactococcus lactis gain‐of‐function mutants we show that, unlike other GAS pili, the FCT‐6 pilus also contributes to immune evasion. This was demonstrated by a delay in blood clotting, increased intracellular survival of the bacteria in macrophages, higher bacterial survival rates in human whole blood and greater virulence in a Galleria mellonella infection model in the presence of fully assembled FCT‐6 pili.
Cryptic purine transporters in Aspergillus nidulans reveal the role of specific residues in the evolution of specificity in the NCS1 family
Authors: Sioupouli Georgia , Lambrinidis George , Mikros Emmanuel , Amillis Sotiris , Diallinas George
Published: October 2016

NCS1 proteins are H+ or Na+ symporters responsible for the uptake of purines, pyrimidines or related metabolites in bacteria, fungi and some plants. Fungal NCS1 are classified into two evolutionary and structurally distinct subfamilies, known as Fur‐ and Fcy‐like transporters. These subfamilies have expanded and functionally diversified by gene duplications. The Fur subfamily of the model fungus Aspergillus nidulans includes both major and cryptic transporters specific for uracil, 5‐fluorouracil, allantoin or/and uric acid. Here we functionally analyse all four A. nidulans Fcy transporters (FcyA, FcyC, FcyD and FcyE) with previously unknown function. Our analysis shows that FcyD is moderate‐affinity, low‐capacity, highly specific adenine transporter, whereas FcyE contributes to 8‐azaguanine uptake. Mutational analysis of FcyD, supported by homology modelling and substrate docking, shows that two variably conserved residues (Leu356 and Ser359) in transmembrane segment 8 (TMS8) are critical for transport kinetics and specificity differences among Fcy transporters, while two conserved residues (Phe167 and Ser171) in TMS3 are also important for function. Importantly, mutation S359N converts FcyD to a promiscuous nucleobase transporter capable of recognizing adenine, xanthine and several nucleobase analogues. Our results reveal the importance of specific residues in the functional evolution of NCS1 transporters.
Protective effects of connexins in atheromatous plaques in patients of carotid artery stenosis
Authors: Nakase Taizen , Ishikawa Tatsuya , Miyata Hajime
Published: October 2016

Fragility of atheromatous plaque in the internal carotid artery can be a risk of brain infarction. The activation of macrophages by oxidative stress and the vulnerability of vascular endothelial cells have been reported to participate in the fragility of atheromatous plaque. Therefore, from the view point of prevention of brain infarction, we investigated the pathological factors which may influence the stabilization of atheromatous plaque. Patients undertaking carotid endoarterectomy (CEA) were continuously screened. Then, 21 samples were obtained from the atheromatous plaques of CEA patients. The expression of connexin (Cx) which composes a gap junction, an intercellular communication organ, was immunohistochemicaly observed. The expression of CD36, an oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor, was assessed as a marker of oxidative stress. As a result, asymptomatic plaques which were assumed the stable plaques expressed Cx43 along with CD36 expression. In contrast, in the symptomatic plaques, the expression of Cx43 was few and there was almost no coexpression with CD36. The distribution of Cx37 expression was not different between asymptomatic and symptomatic plaques. The expressions of CD36, Cx37 and Cx43 showed no relation to the previous treatment with statins. In conclusion, Cx43 might contribute to the stabilization of atheromatous plaque which is affected by oxidative stress.
Evolvulus flavus sp. nov. (Convolvulaceae) from the Brazilian Caatinga
Authors: Bandeira Ágda Nara Tavares , Buril Maria Teresa , da Costa Francisco Carlos Pinheiro , de Melo José Iranildo Miranda
Published: October 2016

Evolvulus flavus is a new species of Convolvulaceae found in the semiarid region of Paraíba State, Brazil. It is characterized by flowers with a yellow corolla and 4‐locular ovary. Illustrations and taxonomic notes are presented. Only four individuals of this new species have been located, resulting in its classification as ‘Endangered’ (EN) in accordance with the IUCN criteria.
Benchmarks for the interpretation of esophageal high‐resolution manometry
Authors: Yadlapati R. , Keswani R. N. , Dunbar K. B. , Gawron A. J. , Gyawali C. P. , Kahrilas P. J. , Katz P. O. , Katzka D. , Spechler S. J. , Tatum R. , Pandolfino J. E.
Published: October 2016

Background

Competent interpretation of esophageal high‐resolution manometry (HRM) is integral to a quality study. Currently, methods to assess physician competency for the interpretation of esophageal HRM do not exist. The aim of this study was to use formal techniques to (i) develop an HRM interpretation exam, and (ii) establish minimum competence benchmarks for HRM interpretation skills at the trainee, physician interpreter, and master level.

Methods

A total of 29 physicians from 8 academic centers participated in the study: 9 content experts separated into 2 study groups—expert test‐takers (n=7) and judges (n=2), and 20 HRM inexperienced trainees (“trainee test‐taker”; n=20). We designed the HRM interpretation exam based on expert consensus. Expert and trainee test‐takers (n=27) completed the exam. According to the modified Angoff method, the judges reviewed the test‐taker performance and established minimum competency cut scores for HRM interpretation skills.

Key Results

The HRM interpretation exam consists of 22 HRM cases with 8 HRM interpretation skills per case: identification of pressure inversion point, hiatal hernia >3 cm, integrated relaxation pressure, distal contractile integral, distal latency, peristaltic integrity, pressurization pattern, and diagnosis. Based on the modified Angoff method, minimum cut scores for HRM interpretation skills at the trainee, physician interpreter, and master level ranged from 65–80%, 85–90% (with the exception of peristaltic integrity), and 90–95%, respectively.

Conclusions & Inferences

Using a formal standard setting technique, we established minimum cut scores for eight HRM interpretation skills across interpreter levels. This examination and associated cut scores can be applied in clinical practice to judge competency.
Gene tagging in Physcomitrella patens: an addition to the genetic toolbox
Authors: Cuming Andrew C.
Published: October 2016

This article is a commentary on Vives et al., 212: 759–769.
What the population genetic structures of host and pathogen tell us about disease evolution
Authors: Croll Daniel , Laine Anna‐Liisa
Published: October 2016

This article is a commentary on Feurtey et al., 212: 668–679.
Singlet oxygen initiates a plastid signal controlling photosynthetic gene expression
Authors: Page Mike T. , McCormac Alex C. , Smith Alison G. , Terry Matthew J.
Published: October 2016

Retrograde signals from the plastid regulate photosynthesis‐associated nuclear genes and are essential to successful chloroplast biogenesis. One model is that a positive haem‐related signal promotes photosynthetic gene expression in a pathway that is abolished by the herbicide norflurazon. Far‐red light (FR) pretreatment and transfer to white light also results in plastid damage and loss of photosynthetic gene expression. Here, we investigated whether norflurazon and FR pretreatment affect the same retrograde signal.

We used transcriptome analysis and real‐time reverse transcription−polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) to analyse the effects of these treatments on nuclear gene expression in various Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) retrograde signalling mutants.

Results showed that the two treatments inhibited largely different nuclear gene sets, suggesting that they affected different retrograde signals. Moreover, FR pretreatment resulted in singlet oxygen (1O2) production and a rapid inhibition of photosynthetic gene expression. This inhibition was partially blocked in the executer1executer2 mutant, which is impaired in 1O2 signalling.

Our data support a new model in which a 1O2 retrograde signal, generated by chlorophyll precursors, inhibits expression of key photosynthetic and chlorophyll synthesis genes to prevent photo‐oxidative damage during de‐etiolation. Such a signal would provide a counterbalance to the positive haem‐related signal to fine tune regulation of chloroplast biogenesis.
X‐ray microtomography observations of xylem embolism in stems of Laurus nobilis are consistent with hydraulic measurements of percentage loss of conductance
Authors: Nardini Andrea , Savi Tadeja , Losso Adriano , Petit Giai , Pacilè Serena , Tromba Giuliana , Mayr Stefan , Trifilò Patrizia , Lo Gullo Maria A. , Salleo Sebastiano
Published: October 2016

Drought‐induced xylem embolism is a serious threat to plant survival under future climate scenarios. Hence, accurate quantification of species‐specific vulnerability to xylem embolism is a key to predict the impact of climate change on vegetation. Low‐cost hydraulic measurements of embolism rate have been suggested to be prone to artefacts, thus requiring validation by direct visualization of the functional status of xylem conduits using nondestructive imaging techniques, such as X‐ray microtomography (microCT).

We measured the percentage loss of conductance (PLC) of excised stems of Laurus nobilis (laurel) dehydrated to different xylem pressures, and compared results with direct observation of gas‐filled vs water‐filled conduits at a synchrotron‐based microCT facility using a phase contrast imaging modality.

Theoretical PLC calculated on the basis of microCT observations in stems of laurel dehydrated to different xylem pressures overall were in agreement with hydraulic measurements, revealing that this species suffers a 50% loss of xylem hydraulic conductance at xylem pressures averaging −3.5 MPa.

Our data support the validity of estimates of xylem vulnerability to embolism based on classical hydraulic techniques. We discuss possible causes of discrepancies between data gathered in this study and those of recent independent reports on laurel hydraulics.
Position Statement of the Israeli Society for Musculoskeletal Medicine on Intramuscular Stimulation for Myofascial Pain Syndrome—A Delphi Process
Authors: Ratmansky Motti , Minerbi Amir , Kalichman Leonid , Kent John , Wende Osnat , Finestone Aharon S. , Vulfsons Simon
Published: October 2016

Objective

To develop consensus on a position paper on the use of intramuscular stimulation (IMS) for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) by physicians in Israel.

Methods

The Israeli Society of Musculoskeletal Medicine ran a modified Delphi process to gather opinions from a multidisciplinary expert panel. Eight experts in the treatment of MPS were chosen and asked to participate, and six participated. The position paper was iterated three times.

Results

After three iterations, general consensus was reached by all six experts. The general statement that was agreed on was: “IMS is one of the preferred treatments for myofascial pain syndrome. The treatment is evidence‐based, effective, safe, and inexpensive. The position of the Israeli Society of Musculoskeletal Medicine is that the treatment should be taught and used by all primary care physicians and those physicians in other areas of medicine who deal with pain in their work.”

Conclusions

The position paper is a basis for clinical work and education programs for physicians interested in a better understanding and ability to treat patients with a musculoskeletal complaint or manifestation of disease.
A Randomized Comparative Study of Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment With or Without Selective Nerve Root Block for Chronic Cervical Radicular Pain
Authors: Wang Fei , Zhou Qian , Xiao Lizu , Yang Juan , Xong Donglin , Li Disen , Liu LiPing , Ancha Sigdha , Cheng Jianguo
Published: October 2016

Background

We demonstrated a combination of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) and cervical nerve root block (CNRB) via a posterior approach was superior to a transforaminal epidural steroid injection through the anterolateral approach for cervical radicular pain in a previous study. This randomized trial was conducted to determine the comparative efficacy between CNRB, PRF, and CNRB + PRF for cervical radicular pain.

Methods

A prospective and randomized design was used in this study. Sixty‐two patients were randomized into three parallel groups: CNRB, PRF, or CNRB + PRF. Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) was used to measure pain intensity, and global perceived effect (GPE) was scored by the patient on a 7‐point scale, ranging from much worse (−3), no change (0), to total improvement (+3). The outcomes were evaluated at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Side effects and complications were noted.

Results

The NRS was significantly reduced in all three groups 1 week after the treatments (P < 0.001), and the rates of positive GPE (+2 or +3) were not significantly different between the three groups. At 1, 3, and 6 months of follow‐ups, the combined therapy achieved significantly lower NRS and higher GPE compared to CNRB or PRF alone group (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the CNRB and PRF groups (P > 0.05). No serious complications were observed in any of the patients.

Conclusions

Combining CNRB and PRF appeared to be a safe and efficacious technique for cervical radicular pain. The combination therapy yielded better outcomes than either CNRB or PRF alone.
Pain Catastrophizing Mediates the Effect of Psychological Inflexibility on Pain Intensity and Upper Extremity Physical Function in Patients with Upper Extremity Illness
Authors: Talaei‐Khoei Mojtaba , Fischerauer Stefan F. , Lee Sang‐Gil , Ring David , Vranceanu Ana‐Maria
Published: October 2016

Background

Psychological inflexibility—the inability to take value‐based actions in the presence of unwanted thoughts, feelings, or bodily symptoms—is associated with negative health outcomes including depression and anxiety.

Objective

We aimed to determine the association between the general construct of psychological inflexibility and pain intensity, and upper extremity physical function in patients with musculoskeletal illness in an orthopedics practice. We also set out to test multiple‐mediator models proposing that psychological inflexibility affects pain intensity and upper extremity physical function directly, as well as indirectly through depression, anxiety, and pain catastrophizing.

Methods

One hundred and eight patients with upper extremity illness completed self‐report measures of pain intensity, upper extremity physical function, psychological inflexibility, pain catastrophizing, depression, and anxiety in this cross‐sectional study.

Results

We found that psychological inflexibility affected pain intensity and upper extremity physical function directly and indirectly. Pain catastrophizing but not depression or anxiety mediated the association of psychological inflexibility to pain intensity and upper extremity physical function.

Conclusions

Psychological inflexibility plays an important role in understanding the increased pain and decreased upper extremity physical function in patients with musculoskeletal pain. It also suggests that the cognitive error of pain catastrophizing is one of the mechanisms through which the general construct of psychological inflexibility may influence pain intensity and upper extremity physical function. Psychological treatments aimed at decreasing pain and increasing upper extremity physical function should target both pain catastrophizing and psychological inflexibility.
The durable wheat disease resistance gene Lr34 confers common rust and northern corn leaf blight resistance in maize
Authors: Sucher Justine , Boni Rainer , Yang Ping , Rogowsky Peter , Büchner Heike , Kastner Christine , Kumlehn Jochen , Krattinger Simon G. , Keller Beat
Published: October 2016

Maize (corn) is one of the most widely grown cereal crops globally. Fungal diseases of maize cause significant economic damage by reducing maize yields and by increasing input costs for disease management. The most sustainable control of maize diseases is through the release and planting of maize cultivars with durable disease resistance. The wheat gene Lr34 provides durable and partial field resistance against multiple fungal diseases of wheat, including three wheat rust pathogens and wheat powdery mildew. Because of its unique qualities, Lr34 became a cornerstone in many wheat disease resistance programmes. The Lr34 resistance is encoded by a rare variant of an ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter that evolved after wheat domestication. An Lr34‐like disease resistance phenotype has not been reported in other cereal species, including maize. Here, we transformed the Lr34 resistance gene into the maize hybrid Hi‐II. Lr34‐expressing maize plants showed increased resistance against the biotrophic fungal disease common rust and the hemi‐biotrophic disease northern corn leaf blight. Furthermore, the Lr34‐expressing maize plants developed a late leaf tip necrosis phenotype, without negative impact on plant growth. With this and previous reports, it could be shown that Lr34 is effective against various biotrophic and hemi‐biotrophic diseases that collectively parasitize all major cereal crop species.
Direct observation and modelling of embolism spread between xylem conduits: a case study in Scots pine
Authors: Torres‐Ruiz José M. , Cochard Hervé , Mencuccini Maurizio , Delzon Sylvain , Badel Eric
Published: October 2016

Xylem embolism is one of the main processes involved in drought‐related plant mortality. Although its consequences for plant physiology are already well described, embolism formation and spread are poorly evaluated and modelled, especially for tracheid‐based species. The aim of this study was to assess the embolism formation and spread in Pinus sylvestris as a case study using X‐ray microtomography and hydraulics methods. We also evaluated the potential effects of cavitation fatigue on vulnerability to embolism and the micro‐morphology of the bordered pits using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to test for possible links between xylem anatomy and embolism spread. Finally, a novel model was developed to simulate the spread of embolism in a 2D anisotropic cellular structure. Results showed a large variability in the formation and spread of embolism within a ring despite no differences being observed in intertracheid pit membrane anatomical traits. Simulations from the model showed a highly anisotropic tracheid‐to‐tracheid embolism spreading pattern, which confirms the major role of tracheid‐to‐tracheid air seeding to explain how embolism spreads in Scots pine. The results also showed that prior embolism removal from the samples reduced the resistance to embolism of the xylem and could result in overestimates of vulnerability to embolism.
How Income and Crowding Effects Influence the World Market for French Wines
Authors: Candau Fabien , Deisting Florent , Schlick Julie
Published: October 2016

Wine prices rose rapidly between 2001 and 2011 but have now stagnated. The growth phase could be explained by the increased demand from emerging markets, while the subsequent stagnation may result from the crowding effect caused by the entry of numerous new varieties onto the wine market. The generalised model of ideal variety proposed by Hummels and Lugovskyy combines these two elements, and focusing on French exporters, we find partial support for this explanation at the world level. A 1 per cent increase in GDP per capita (income effect) generated an increase in price of 1.13 per cent between 2001 and 2011. In contrast, a 1 per cent increase in market size (competition effect) reduced prices by 1.10 per cent over the same period. This paper goes further into the analysis of these effects by considering wine exports according to the mode of transport used and indirectly evaluates economies of scale when wine is exported by land, sea or air (via a gravity equation). Economies of scale are observed for transport by plane and ship but not for road. A 10 per cent increase in the value of wine exported by road (plane) leads to a rise (reduction) in transport costs of 0.5 per cent (19 per cent).
A novel approach to neutron dosimetry
Authors: Balmer Matthew J. I. , Gamage Kelum A. A. , Taylor Graeme C.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Having been overlooked for many years, research is now starting to take into account the directional distribution of neutron workplace fields. Existing neutron dosimetry instrumentation does not account for this directional distribution, resulting in conservative estimates of dose in neutron workplace fields (by around a factor of 2, although this is heavily dependent on the type of field). This conservatism could influence epidemiological studies on the health effects of radiation exposure. This paper reports on the development of an instrument which can estimate the effective dose of a neutron field, accounting for both the direction and the energy distribution.

Methods

A 6Li‐loaded scintillator was used to perform neutron assays at a number of locations in a 20 × 20 × 17.5 cm3 water phantom. The variation in thermal and fast neutron response to different energies and field directions was exploited. The modeled response of the instrument to various neutron fields was used to train an artificial neural network (ANN) to learn the effective dose and ambient dose equivalent of these fields. All experimental data published in this work were measured at the National Physical Laboratory (UK).

Results

Experimental results were obtained for a number of radionuclide source based neutron fields to test the performance of the system. The results of experimental neutron assays at 25 locations in a water phantom were fed into the trained ANN. A correlation between neutron counting rates in the phantom and neutron fluence rates was experimentally found to provide dose rate estimates. A radionuclide source behind shadow cone was used to create a more complex field in terms of energy and direction. For all fields, the resulting estimates of effective dose rate were within 45% or better of their calculated values, regardless of energy distribution or direction for measurement times greater than 25 min.

Conclusions

This work presents a novel, real‐time, approach to workplace neutron dosimetry. It is believed that in the research presented in this paper, for the first time, a single instrument has been able to estimate effective dose.
A large‐scale measurement of dielectric properties of normal and malignant colorectal tissues obtained from cancer surgeries at Larmor frequencies
Authors: Li Zhou , Deng Guanhua , Li Zhe , Xin Sherman Xuegang , Duan Song , Lan Maoying , Zhang Sa , Gao Yixin , He Jun , Zhang Songtao , Tang Hongming , Wang Weiwei , Han Shuai , Yang Qing X. , Zhuang Ling , Hu Jiani , Liu Feng
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Knowledge of dielectric properties of malignant human tissues is necessary for the recently developed magnetic resonance (MR) technique called MR electrical property tomography. This technique may be used in early tumor detection based on the obvious differentiation of the dielectric properties between normal and malignant tissues. However, the dielectric properties of malignant human tissues in the scale of the Larmor frequencies are not completely available in the literature. In this study, the authors focused only on the dielectric properties of colorectal tumor tissue.

Methods

The dielectric properties of 504 colorectal malignant samples excised from 85 patients in the scale of the Larmor frequencies were measured using the precision open‐ended coaxial probe method. The obtained complex‐permittivity data were fitted to the single‐pole Cole–Cole model.

Results

The median permittivity and conductivity for the malignant tissue sample were 79.3 and 0.881 S/m at 128 MHz, which were 14.6% and 17.0% higher, respectively, than those of normal tissue samples. Significant differences between normal and malignant tissues were found for the dielectric properties (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Experimental results indicated that the dielectric properties were significantly different between normal and malignant tissues for colorectal tissue. This large‐scale clinical measurement provides more subtle base data to validate the technique of MR electrical property tomography.
Motion of the cello bridge
Authors: Zhang Ailin , Woodhouse Jim , Stoppani George
Published: October 2016

This paper presents an experimental investigation of the motion of the bridge of a cello, in the frequency range up to 2 kHz. Vibration measurements were carried out on three different cellos, and the results used to determine the position of the Instantaneous Centre of rotation of the bridge, treated as a rigid body. The assumption of rigid body rotation is shown to give a good approximation up to at least 1 kHz. The instantaneous centre moves from the sound-post side of the bridge at the lowest frequencies towards the bass-bar side at higher frequencies, remaining close to the surface of the top plate of the instrument. The trajectory as a function of frequency sheds light on the response of the cello in response to excitation by bowing the different strings. The correlation between the motion at the four string notches and directly measured transfer functions at these four notches is examined and verified for some important low-frequency body resonances.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Bacillus
Phage Belinda from Grand Cayman Island
Authors: Breslin Eileen F. , Cornell Jessica , Schuhmacher Zachary , Himelright Madison , Andos Aya , Childs Ariel , Clem Ana , Gerber Monica , Gordillo Arissa , Harb Laith , Hossain Reafa , Hutchinson Taylor , Miller Isaac , Morton Edmund , Walters Ryan , Webb Destin , Temple Louise
Published: October 2016

Soil from George Town, Grand Cayman Island, yielded the bacteriophage Belinda, isolated on
Bacillus thuringiensis
DSM 350. We present here the analysis of the complete genome sequence of 162,308 bp, with 298 predicted genes. The genome also contains three tRNA genes. Belinda belongs to the C1 cluster of
Bacillus
phages.
Draft Genome Sequence of Carnobacterium divergens V41, a Bacteriocin-Producing Strain
Authors: Remenant Benoît , Borges Frédéric , Cailliez-Grimal Catherine , Revol-Junelles Anne-Marie , Marché Laurent , Lajus Aurélie , Médigue Claudine , Pilet Marie-France , Prévost Hervé , Zagorec Monique
Published: October 2016

In this study, we present the draft genome sequence of
Carnobacterium divergens
V41. This strain was previously reported as producing divercin V41, a bacteriocin of interest for food biopreservation. Its genome revealed also the presence of a gene cluster putatively involved in polyketide production, which is unique in lactic acid bacteria.
Draft Genome Sequence of 11399, a Transformable Citrus-Pathogenic Strain of Xylella fastidiosa
Authors: Niza Bárbara , Merfa Marcus V. , Alencar Valquíria C. , Menegidio Fabiano B. , Nunes Luiz R. , Machado Marcos A. , Takita Marco A. , de Souza Alessandra A.
Published: October 2016

The draft genome of
Xylella fastidiosa
subsp.
pauca
strain 11399, a transformable citrus-pathogenic strain, is reported here. The 11399 genome size is 2,690,704 bp and has a G+C content of 52.7%. The draft genome of 11399 reveals the absence of four type I restriction-modification system genes.
Genome Sequence of Listeria monocytogenes Plasmid pLM-C-273 Carrying Genes Related to Stress Resistance
Authors: Liang Lindsay , Gnaneshan Saravanamuttu , Garduño Rafael A. , Mallo Gustavo V.
Published: October 2016

Mobile genetic elements in bacteria, such as plasmids, act as important vectors for the transfer of antibiotic resistance, virulence, and metal resistance genes. Here, we report the genome sequence of a new plasmid pLM-C-273, identified in a
Listeria monocytogenes
strain isolated from a clinical sample in Ontario, Canada.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. SPMA113, a Prajinamide Producer
Authors: Komaki Hisayuki , Hosoyama Akira , Ichikawa Natsuko , Panbangred Watanalai , Igarashi Yasuhiro
Published: October 2016

We report here the draft genome sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. SPMA113 isolated from soil in Thailand. This strain produces a new modified peptide, prajinamide, which has adipocyte differentiation activity. The genome harbors at least 30 gene clusters for synthases of polyketide and nonribosomal peptide, suggesting its potential to produce diverse secondary metabolites.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas xanthomarina Strain UASWS0955, a Potential Biological Agent for Agricultural and Environmental Uses
Authors: Crovadore Julien , Cochard Bastien , Calmin Gautier , Chablais Romain , Schulz Torsten , Lefort François
Published: October 2016

We report here the whole-genome shotgun sequence of the strain UASWS0955 of the species
Pseudomonas xanthomarina
, isolated from sewage sludge. This genome was obtained with an Illumina MiniSeq and is the second genome registered for this species, which is considered as a promising resource for agriculture and bioremediation of contaminated soils.
Whole-Genome Sequence of
Mesorhizobium hungaricum
sp. nov. Strain UASWS1009, a Potential Resource for Agricultural and Environmental Uses
Authors: Crovadore Julien , Cochard Bastien , Calmin Gautier , Chablais Romain , Schulz Torsten , Lefort François
Published: October 2016

We report here the whole-genome shotgun sequences of the strain UASWS1009 of the species
Mesorhizobium hungaricum
sp. nov., which are different from any other known
Mesorhizobium
species. This is the first genome registered for this new species, which could be considered as a potential resource for agriculture and environmental uses.