bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macroalgal blooms alter community structure and primary productivity in marine ecosystems
Authors: Lyons Devin A. , Arvanitidis Christos , Blight Andrew J. , Chatzinikolaou Eva , Guy‐Haim Tamar , Kotta Jonne , Orav‐Kotta Helen , Queirós Ana M. , Rilov Gil , Somerfield Paul J. , Crowe Tasman P.
Published: May 2014

Eutrophication, coupled with loss of herbivory due to habitat degradation and overharvesting, has increased the frequency and severity of macroalgal blooms worldwide. Macroalgal blooms interfere with human activities in coastal areas, and sometimes necessitate costly algal removal programmes. They also have many detrimental effects on marine and estuarine ecosystems, including induction of hypoxia, release of toxic hydrogen sulphide into the sediments and atmosphere, and the loss of ecologically and economically important species. However, macroalgal blooms can also increase habitat complexity, provide organisms with food and shelter, and reduce other problems associated with eutrophication. These contrasting effects make their overall ecological impacts unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to estimate the overall effects of macroalgal blooms on several key measures of ecosystem structure and functioning in marine ecosystems. We also evaluated some of the ecological and methodological factors that might explain the highly variable effects observed in different studies. Averaged across all studies, macroalgal blooms had negative effects on the abundance and species richness of marine organisms, but blooms by different algal taxa had different consequences, ranging from strong negative to strong positive effects. Blooms' effects on species richness also depended on the habitat where they occurred, with the strongest negative effects seen in sandy or muddy subtidal habitats and in the rocky intertidal. Invertebrate communities also appeared to be particularly sensitive to blooms, suffering reductions in their abundance, species richness, and diversity. The total net primary productivity, gross primary productivity, and respiration of benthic ecosystems were higher during macroalgal blooms, but blooms had negative effects on the productivity and respiration of other organisms. These results suggest that, in addition to their direct social and economic costs, macroalgal blooms have ecological effects that may alter their capacity to deliver important ecosystem services.
Methane emissions from Amazonian Rivers and their contribution to the global methane budget
Authors: Sawakuchi Henrique O. , Bastviken David , Sawakuchi André O. , Krusche Alex V. , Ballester Maria V. R. , Richey Jeffrey E.
Published: May 2014

Methane (CH4) fluxes from world rivers are still poorly constrained, with measurements restricted mainly to temperate climates. Additional river flux measurements, including spatio‐temporal studies, are important to refine extrapolations. Here we assess the spatio‐temporal variability of CH4 fluxes from the Amazon and its main tributaries, the Negro, Solimões, Madeira, Tapajós, Xingu, and Pará Rivers, based on direct measurements using floating chambers. Sixteen of 34 sites were measured during low and high water seasons. Significant differences were observed within sites in the same river and among different rivers, types of rivers, and seasons. Ebullition contributed to more than 50% of total emissions for some rivers. Considering only river channels, our data indicate that large rivers in the Amazon Basin release between 0.40 and 0.58 Tg CH4 yr−1. Thus, our estimates of CH4 flux from all tropical rivers and rivers globally were, respectively, 19–51% to 31–84% higher than previous estimates, with large rivers of the Amazon accounting for 22–28% of global river CH4 emissions.
Dialysis access venous stenosis: Treatment with balloon angioplasty 30‐second vs. 1‐minute inflation times
Authors: Elramah Mohsen , Boujelbane Lamya , Yevzlin Alexander S. , Wakeen Maureen , Astor Brad C. , Chan Micah R.
Published: May 2014

Percutaneous balloon angioplasty is the standard of care in the endovascular treatment of dialysis access venous stenosis. The significance of balloon inflation times in the treatment of these stenoses is not well defined. Our objective was to examine the outcomes of 30‐second vs. 1‐minute balloon inflation times on primary‐assisted patency of arteriovenous fistulae and grafts. Using a prospectively collected vascular access database, we identified a total of 75 patients referred for access dysfunction during a 5‐year period. These patients received 223 interventions (178 with 30‐second inflations and 45 with 1‐minute inflations). We compared primary‐assisted patency during the subsequent 9 months across groups defined by inflation times. Demographics and baseline characteristics were similar across groups. Immediate technical success and patency in the first 3 months were similar across groups (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.34–2.20). After 3 months, however, a 1‐minute inflation time was associated with greater incidence of access failure (adjusted HR [aHR] = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.09–2.79). Other predictors of access failure included age over 60 (aHR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01–1.04), central location of the lesion (aHR = 2.49; CI: 1.27–4.89), and three or more prior procedures (aHR 2.48; CI: 1.19–5.16). Our data suggest that shorter balloon inflation times may be associated with improved longer term access patency, although the benefit was not observed until after 3 months. Given the increasing demands of maintaining access patency in the era of the National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative and Fistula First, the role of angioplasty times requires further study.
“Maybe they have found something new” participants’ views on returning cohort psychosocial survey results
Authors: Bureau Eve , Pellegrini Isabelle , Noguès Catherine , Lasset Christine , Julian‐Reynier Claire
Published: May 2014

Background

Although greater attention is currently being paid to participants in research, no studies have dealt so far with the issue of returning aggregate psychosocial results to cohort participants.

Objective

(i) To explore participants’ views about disclosure of the aggregate results of a French national psychosocial cohort survey on the epidemiology of preventive behaviour in women from families with a hereditary breast cancer risk. (ii) To assess whether it is worth consulting participants before designing the disclosure process.

Design

A qualitative study using semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews and a thematic analysis based on Grounded Theory methods.

Participants

Nineteen interviews were conducted with cancer‐free femaleBRCAmutation carriers/non‐carriers aged 31–79 who had participated in a cohort survey by answering self‐administered questionnaires.

Results

Participants showed considerable interest in the issue of result disclosure. The preferences expressed about disclosure were rarely relevant to the topic investigated, however, as they often focused on medical knowledge aboutBRCAand not on the psychosocial findings obtained. This confusion may have been due to the participants’ experience of the survey procedures, including its longitudinal nature, the occurrence of very few interactions with the investigators and the wide range of topics addressed in the questionnaires.

Conclusion

Investigators should ascertain participants’ expectations and preferences by consulting them before disclosing the results obtained. Although the disclosure process may not meet participants’ expectations completely, consultation is the key to preventing them from having irrealistic expectations about the information they are going to receive.
A Sintering Kinetics Model for Ceramic Dual‐Phase Composite
Authors: Zhang Yanxiang , Ni Meng , Xia Changrong , Chen Fanglin
Published: May 2014

An analytical model is developed for the sintering kinetics of ceramic dual‐phase composites of the cathodes in solid oxide fuel cells (SOCFs). The model simulates the isothermal and pressureless sintering processes and formulates volumetric three‐phase boundary (TPB) length and porosity as a function of sintering time, surface/interface energies, grain‐boundary diffusivities, particle sizes, and dual‐phase composition. Lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM)–yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) composite is used as an example to develop and validate the model. LSM–YSZ composites are sintered at 1100°C for various sintering time, and the TPB length and porosity are estimated from SEM images by using stereological analysis to validate the model. Parametric studies are performed at various conditions, illustrating novel insights into the sintering kinetics. This analytical model is generic and applicable to the sintering kinetics of ceramic dual‐phase composites for use in solid‐state electrochemical devices, such as SOCFs, electrolyzers, and gas separation membranes. This analytical model can also be easily extended to the sintering processes of other ceramic dual‐phase and triple‐phase composites.
Spatial and temporal patterns of range expansion of white‐winged doves in the USA from 1979 to 2007
Authors: Butcher Jerrod A. , Collier Bret A. , Silvy Nova J. , Roberson Jay A. , Mason Corey D. , Peterson Markus J.
Published: May 2014

Aim

The geographical expansion of white‐winged doves (Zenaida asiatica) in North America has attracted the attention of biologists and sportsmen because of their recreational and aesthetic value; however, data on factors driving the spatial spread of this species are lacking. We examined spatial and temporal patterns of range expansion for white‐winged doves along the northern edge of their geographical range from 1979 to 2007 and used a dynamic occupancy model to estimate when and where doves would be found along an expansion gradient.

Location

Southern half of the USA.

Methods

We modelled spatial variation in the range expansion of white‐winged doves from 1979 to 2007 using data from the North American Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) and distance from initial population centre, area of urban land cover, and ecoregion. We used a robust design occupancy analysis to estimate species expansion rate based on a model set grounded in broad‐scale conditions likely to drive dove distribution. We evaluated our best fitting model (using Akaike's information criterion adjusted for small sample size) by comparing estimates to actual observations in 1993 and 2007 using area under the curve (AUC) metrics from receiver‐operating characteristic plots.

Results

Our spatial distribution model indicated that range expansion of white‐winged doves was primarily influenced by distance from the core population centre, with additive effects of ecoregion and land cover. In 1979, white‐winged doves were present in 12% of survey locations, whereas presence increased to 41% by 2007. Across all ecoregions, urban land cover was positively related to probability of occupancy. We evaluated our model for 1993 and 2007 by comparing derived occupancy estimates to sightings of white‐winged doves within our sample hexagons using BBS survey data. Based on high AUC statistics (> 0.85), we concluded that our model was useful for accurately predicting range expansion.

Main conclusions

Estimating occurrence and range expansion of white‐winged doves and other expanding/invasive avian species at large spatial scales can be effectively conducted using BBS data. Using these nationwide, long‐term survey data to relate expansion to a suite of conditions likely to drive population dynamics is an effective approach to developing predictive models of range expansion.
Regulatory T cells modulate inflammation and reduce infarct volume in experimental brain ischaemia
Authors: Brea David , Agulla Jesús , Rodríguez‐Yáñez Manuel , Barral David , Ramos‐Cabrer Pedro , Campos Francisco , Almeida Angeles , Dávalos Antoni , Castillo José
Published: May 2014

Brain ischaemia (stroke) triggers an intense inflammatory response predominately mediated by the accumulation of inflammatory cells and mediators in the ischaemic brain. In this context, regulatory T (Treg) cells, a subpopulation of CD4+ T cells with immunosuppressive and anti‐inflammatory properties, are activated in the late stages of the disease. To date, the potential therapeutic usefulness of Treg cells has not been tested. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether Treg cells exert protection/repair following stroke. Both the adoptive transfer of Treg cells into ischaemic rats and the stimulation of endogenous T‐cell proliferation using a CD28 superagonist reduced the infarct size at 3–28 days following the ischaemic insult. Moreover, T cell‐treated animals had higher levels of FoxP3 and lower levels of IL‐1β, CD11b+ and CD68+ cells in the infarcted hemisphere when compared with control animals. However, T‐cell treatment did not alter the rate of proliferation of NeuN‐, NCAM‐ or CD31‐positive cells, thereby ruling out neurogenesis and angiogenesis in protection. These results suggest that adoptive transfer of T cells is a promising therapeutic strategy against the neurological consequences of stroke.
Epigenetic reprogramming of human lung cancer cells with the extract of bovine parthenogenetic oocytes
Authors: Wang Zhenfei , Dao Rinuo , Bao Luri , Dong Yanhua , Wang Haiyang , Han Pengyong , Yue Yongli , Yu Haiquan
Published: May 2014

The tumour suppressor gene silencing and proto‐oncogene activation caused by epigenetic alterations plays an important role in the initiation and progression of cancer. Re‐establishing the balance between the expression of tumour suppressor genes and proto‐oncogenes by epigenetic modulation is a promising strategy for cancer treatment. In this study, we investigated whether cancer cells can be epigenetically reprogrammed by oocyte extract. H460 human lung cancer cells were reversibly permeabilized and incubated with the extract of bovine parthenogenetic oocytes. Bisulphite sequencing showed that bovine parthenogenetic oocyte extract induced significant demethylation at the promoters of the tumour suppressor genes RUNX3 and CDH1, but not at the promoter of the oncogenic pluripotency gene SOX2. Chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that the histone modifications at RUNX3 and CDH1 promoters were modulated towards a transcriptionally activating state, while those at SOX2 promoter towards a transcriptionally repressive state. Correspondingly, bovine parthenogenetic oocyte extract reversed the epigenetic silencing of RUNX3 and CDH1, and repressed the expression of SOX2. At the functional level, proliferation, anchorage‐independent growth, migration and invasion of H460 cells was strongly inhibited. These results indicate that bovine parthenogenetic oocyte extract changes the expression patterns of tumour suppressor and oncogenic genes in cancer cells by remodelling the epigenetic modifications at their promoters. Bovine parthenogenetic oocyte extract may provide a useful tool for epigenetically reprogramming cancer cells and for dissecting the epigenetic mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis.
Reward anticipation and processing of social versus nonsocial stimuli in children with and without autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Stavropoulos Katherine K.M. , Carver Leslie J.
Published: May 2014

Background

How children respond to social and nonsocial rewards has important implications for both typical and atypical social‐cognitive development. Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are thought to process rewards differently than typically developing (TD) individuals. However, there is little direct evidence to support this claim.

Methods

Two event‐related potentials were measured. The stimulus preceding negativity (SPN) was utilized to measure reward anticipation, and the feedback related negativity (FRN) was utilized to measure reward processing. Participants were 6‐ to 8‐year‐olds with (N = 20) and without (N = 23) ASD. Children were presented with rewards accompanied by incidental face or nonface stimuli. Nonface stimuli were composed of scrambled face elements in the shape of arrows, controlling for low‐level visual properties.

Results

Children with ASD showed smaller responses while anticipating and processing rewards accompanied by social stimuli than TD children. Anticipation and processing of rewards accompanied by nonsocial stimuli was intact in children with ASD.

Conclusions

This is the first study to measure both reward anticipation and processing in ASD while controlling for reward properties. The findings provide evidence that children with autism have reward anticipation and processing deficits for social stimuli only. Our results suggest that while typically developing children find social stimuli more salient than nonsocial stimuli, children with ASD may have the opposite preference.
Developmental temperature affects the expression of ejaculatory traits and the outcome of sperm competition in Callosobruchus maculatus
Authors: Vasudeva R. , Deeming D. C. , Eady P. E.
Published: May 2014

The outcome of post‐copulatory sexual selection is determined by a complex set of interactions between the primary reproductive traits of two or more males and their interactions with the reproductive traits of the female. Recently, a number of studies have shown the primary reproductive traits of both males and females express phenotypic plasticity in response to the thermal environment experienced during ontogeny. However, how plasticity in these traits affects the dynamics of sperm competition remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate plasticity in testes size, sperm size and sperm number in response to developmental temperature in the bruchid beetle Callosobruchus maculatus. Males reared at the highest temperature eclosed at the smallest body size and had the smallest absolute and relative testes size. Males reared at both the high‐ and low‐temperature extremes produced both fewer and smaller sperm than males reared at intermediate temperatures. In the absence of sperm competition, developmental temperature had no effect on male fertility. However, under conditions of sperm competition, males reared at either temperature extreme were less competitive in terms of sperm offence (P2), whereas those reared at the lowest temperature were less competitive in terms of sperm defence (P1). This suggests the developmental pathways that regulate the phenotypic expression of these ejaculatory traits are subject to both natural and sexual selection: natural selection in the pre‐ejaculatory environment and sexual selection in the post‐ejaculatory environment. In nature, thermal heterogeneity during development is commonplace. Therefore, we suggest the interplay between ecology and development represents an important, yet hitherto underestimated component of male fitness via post‐copulatory sexual selection.
Foraging habits in a generalist predator: Sex and age influence habitat selection and resource use among bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
Authors: Rossman Sam , Berens McCabe Elizabeth , Barros Nélio B. , Gandhi Hasand , Ostrom Peggy H. , Stricker Craig A. , Wells Randall S.
Published: May 2014

This study examines resource use (diet, habitat use, and trophic level) within and among demographic groups (males, females, and juveniles) of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). We analyzed the δ13C and δ15N values of 15 prey species constituting 84% of the species found in stomach contents. We used these data to establish a trophic enrichment factor (TEF) to inform dietary analysis using a Bayesian isotope mixing model. We document a TEF of 0‰ and 2.0‰ for δ13C and δ15N, respectively. The dietary results showed that all demographic groups relied heavily on low trophic level seagrass‐associated prey. Bayesian standard ellipse areas (SEAb) were calculated to assess diversity in resource use. The SEAb of females was nearly four times larger than that of males indicating varied resource use, likely a consequence of small home ranges and habitat specialization. Juveniles possessed an intermediate SEAb, generally feeding at a lower trophic level compared to females, potentially an effect of natal philopatry and immature foraging skills. The small SEAb of males reflects a high degree of specialization on seagrass associated prey. Patterns in resource use by the demographic groups are likely linked to differences in the relative importance of social and ecological factors.
The Treponema denticola AtcR LytTR domain‐containing response regulator interacts with three architecturally distinct promoter elements: implications for understanding the molecular signaling mechanisms that drive the progression of periodontal disease
Authors: Miller D.P. , Frederick J.R. , Sarkar J. , Marconi R.T.
Published: May 2014

Treponema denticola is an oral spirochete and periopathogen that transitions from low abundance in healthy subgingival crevices to high abundance in periodontal pockets. The T. denticola response regulator AtcR harbors the relatively rare, LytTR DNA‐binding domain. LytTR domain containing response regulators control critical transcriptional responses required for environmental adaptation. Using a multi‐step bioinformatics approach, 26 strong lytTR recognition motifs were identified in the genome of T. denticola strain 35405. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrated that AtcR binds to these recognition motifs. High specificity–high affinity complexes formed with phosphorylated AtcR. The LytTR recognition sequences were found to exist in three distinct promoter architectures designated as LytTR1, LytTR2 and LytTR3 promoters. LytTR1 and LytTR2 promoters harbor σ54 binding sites. The functional diversity of the proteins encoded by the putative AtcR regulon suggests that AtcR sits at the top of a regulatory cascade that plays a central role in facilitating T. denticola's ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions and thrive in periodontal pockets.
Minimally Invasive Treatment of Clavicular Fractures with Cannulated Screw
Authors: Sun Jun‐zhan , Zheng Guo‐hai , Zhao Ke‐yi
Published: May 2014

Objective

To evaluate minimally invasive treatment of clavicular fractures with cannulated screw.

Methods

Data of 65 patients who had undergone minimally invasive treatment with cannulated screws for clavicular fractures from April 2009 to October 2010 were retrospectively analyzed and compared with those of 65 patients with clavicular fractures who had been treated by the same surgeons with plates. In the study group, there were 41 males and 24 females, aged from 19–67 years (mean, 35.8 years). According to Craig's classification, there were 29 group 1 and 36 of group 2‐II. Neer scores were used to evaluate shoulder function and radiographs to assess fracture union.

Results

The incision length was 4–5 cm in the cannulated screw group (CSG) and 10–11 cm in the reconstructive plate group (RPG). Radiographs showed bone union was achieved in both groups, the bone healing time being 13.2 ± 6.9 weeks in the CSG and 16.3 ± 8.7 weeks in the RPG. All patients were followed up for 6 to 20 months (average, 10.6 months). The average Neer score was 96.6 ± 3.4 in the CSG and 94.2 ± 5.8 in the RPG. In the CSG, screw loosening occurred in five, and fracture displacement in three. There was a significant difference in fracture healing time between two groups but not in Neer score.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive treatment of clavicular fractures with cannulated screws has the advantages of minimal invasion, short bone healing time, good clinical outcomes, and being relatively inexpensive.
Angiofibroma of soft tissue with fibrohistiocytic features and intratumor genetic heterogeneity of NCOA2 gene rearrangement revealed by chromogenic in situ hybridization: A case report
Authors: Fukuda Yumiko , Motoi Toru , Kato Ikuma , Ikegami Masachika , Funata Nobuaki , Ohtomo Rie , Horiguchi Shinichiro , Goto Takahiro , Hishima Tsunekazu
Published: May 2014

Angiofibroma of soft tissue is a recently described soft tissue tumor that is characterized by fibroblastic spindle tumor cells with arborizing capillary proliferation. Cytogenetically, it harbors a specific fusion gene involving the nuclear receptor coactivator 2 (NCOA2) gene. We report here additional new pathological and cytogenetic features. A soft tissue tumor in the left thigh of 73‐year‐old female was investigated. Microscopically, histiocytoid tumor cells were scattered in an edematous background with branching capillary proliferation. Immunohistochemically, we identified that the tumor cells were positive for histiocytic markers such as CD68 and CD163. Rearrangement of the NCOA2 gene was detected successfully by chromogenic in situ hybridization; however, abnormal signal patterns were observed in only a small subset of tumor cells. Unlike typical tumors with bland spindle cells, the present tumor needs to be distinguished from myxoid, dendritic and clear cell tumors. This case may suggest that angiofibroma of soft tissue is not in the center of the fibroblastic/myofibroblastic tumor group, but rather shows a fibrohistiocytic nature. We also found intratumor genetic heterogeneity, which is uncommon for a translocation‐associated tumor. Therefore, careful evaluation is required to detect the gene rearrangement in this tumor entity.
Pollen competition between two sympatric Orchis species (Orchidaceae): the overtaking of conspecific of heterospecific pollen as a reproductive barrier
Authors: Luca A. , Palermo A. M. , Bellusci F. , Pellegrino G.
Published: May 2014

The frequency of hybrid formation in angiosperms depends on how and when heterospecific pollen is transferred to the stigma, and on the success of that heterospecific pollen at fertilising ovules. We applied pollen mixtures to stigmas to determine how pollen interactions affect siring success and the frequency of hybrid formation between two species of Mediterranean deceptive orchid. Plants of Orchis italica and O. anthropophora were pollinated with conspecific and heterospecific pollen (first conspecific pollen then heterospecific pollen and vice versa) and molecular analysis was used to check the paternity of the seeds produced. In this pair of Mediterranean orchids, competition between conspecific and heterospecific pollen functions as a post‐pollination pre‐zygotic barrier limiting the frequency of the formation of hybrids in nature. Flowers pollinated with heterospecific pollen can remain receptive for the arrival of conspecific pollen for a long time. There is always an advantage of conspecific pollen for fruit formation, whether it comes before or after heterospecific pollen, because it overtakes the heterospecific pollen. The conspecific pollen advantage exhibited in O. italica and O. anthropophora is likely to result from the reduced germination of heterospecific pollen or retarded growth of heterospecific pollen tubes in the stigma and ovary. Overall, the results indicate that our hybrid zone represents a phenomenon of little evolutionary consequence, and the conspecific pollen advantage maintains the genetic integrity of the parental species.
Induced resistance to foliar diseases by soil solarization and Trichoderma harzianum
Authors: Okon Levy N. , Meller Harel Y. , Haile Z. M. , Elad Y. , Rav‐David E. , Jurkevitch E. , Katan J.
Published: May 2014

The effect of soil solarization and Trichoderma harzianum on induced resistance to grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) and powdery mildew (Podosphaera xanthii) was studied. Plants were grown in soils pretreated by solarization, T. harzianum T39 amendment or both, and then their leaves were inoculated with the pathogens. There was a significant reduction in grey mould in cucumber, strawberry, bean and tomato, and of powdery mildew in cucumber, with a stronger reduction when treatments were combined. Bacillus, pseudomonad and actinobacterial communities in the strawberry rhizosphere were affected by the treatments, as revealed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis fingerprinting. In tomato, treatments affected the expression of salicylic acid (SA)‐, ethylene (ET)‐ and jasmonic acid (JA)‐responsive genes. With both soil treatments, genes related to SA and ET – PR1a, GluB, CHI9 and Erf1 – were downregulated whereas the JA marker PI2 was upregulated. Following soil treatments and B. cinerea infection, SA‐, ET‐, and JA‐related genes were globally upregulated, except for the LOX genes which were downregulated. Upregulation of the PR genes PR1a, GluB and CHI9 in plants grown in solarized soil revealed a priming effect of this treatment on these genes' expression. The present study demonstrates the capacity of solarization and T. harzianum to systemically induce resistance to foliar diseases in various plants. This may be due to either a direct effect on the plant or an indirect one, via stimulation of beneficial microorganisms in the rhizosphere.
Reply 1
Authors: Schroll Stephan , Birner Christoph , Arzt Michael
Published: May 2014

See correspondence, page 767
Reply 2
Authors: Hamilton Garun S. , Edwards Bradley A. , Sands Scott A.
Published: May 2014

See correspondence, page 767
Duration of residence and disease occurrence among refugees and family reunited immigrants: test of the ‘healthy migrant effect’ hypothesis
Authors: Norredam Marie , Agyemang Charles , Hoejbjerg Hansen Oluf K. , Petersen Jørgen H. , Byberg Stine , Krasnik Allan , Kunst Anton E.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

The ‘healthy migrant effect’ (HME) hypothesis postulates that health selection has a positive effect on migrants' health outcomes, especially in the first years after migration. We examined the potential role of the HME by assessing the association between residence duration and disease occurrence.

Methods

We performed a historical prospective cohort study. We included migrants who obtained residence permits in Denmark between 1 January 1993 and 31 December 2010 (n = 114 331). Occurrence of severe conditions was identified through linkage to the Danish National Patient Register. Hazard Ratios (HRs) were modelled for disease incidence by residence duration since arrival (0–5 years; 0–10 years; 0–18 years) adjusting for age and sex.

Results

Compared with Danish‐born individuals, refugees and family reunited immigrants had lower HRs of stroke and breast cancer within 5 years after arrival; however, HRs increased at longer follow‐up. For example, HRs of stroke among refugees increased from 0.77 (95% CI: 0.66; 0.91) to 0.96 (95% CI: 0.88; 1.05). For ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and diabetes, refugees and family reunited migrants had higher HRs within 5 years after arrival, and most HRs had increased by end of follow‐up. For example, HRs of IHD among family reunited migrants increased from 1.29 (95% CI: 1.17; 1.42) to 1.43 (95% CI: 1.39; 1.52). In contrast, HRs for TB and HIV/AIDS showed a consistent decrease over time.

Conclusion

Our analyses of the effect of duration of residence on disease occurrence among migrants imply that, when explaining migrants' advantageous health outcomes, the ruling theory of the HME should be used with caution, and other explanatory models should be included.
A pair of homoeolog ClpP5 genes underlies a virescent yellow‐like mutant and its modifier in maize
Authors: Xing Anqi , Williams Mark E. , Bourett Timothy M. , Hu Wangnan , Hou Zhenglin , Meeley Robert B. , Jaqueth Jennifer , Dam Thao , Li Bailin
Published: May 2014

Gene–background interaction is a commonly observed phenomenon in many species, but the molecular mechanisms of such an interaction is less well understood. Here we report the cloning of a maize mutant gene and its modifier. A recessive mutant with a virescent yellow‐like (vyl) phenotype was identified in an ethyl methanesulfonate‐mutagenized population derived from the maize inbred line B73. Homozygous mutant maize plants exhibited a yellow leaf phenotype after emergence but gradually recovered and became indistinguishable from wild‐type plants after approximately 2 weeks. Taking the positional cloning approach, the Chr.9_ClpP5 gene, one of the proteolytic subunits of the chloroplast Clp protease complex, was identified and validated as the candidate gene for vyl. When introgressed by backcross into the maize inbred line PH09B, the mutant phenotype of vyl lasted much longer in the greenhouse and was lethal in the field, implying the presence of a modifier(s) for vyl. A major modifier locus was identified on chromosome 1, and a paralogous ClpP5 gene was isolated and confirmed as the candidate for the vyl‐modifier. Expression of Chr.1_ClpP5 is induced significantly in B73 by the vyl mutation, while the expression of Chr.1_ClpP5 in PH09B is not responsive to the vyl mutation. Moreover, expression and sequence analysis suggests that the PH09B Chr.1_ClpP5 allele is functionally weaker than the B73 allele. We propose that functional redundancy between duplicated paralogous genes is the molecular mechanism for the interaction between vyl and its modifier.
Positive expectation in the processing of allophones
Authors: Key Michael
Published: May 2014

Does native knowledge introduce a perceptual bias against allophones that mismatch their context? In German, [x] only occurs after back vowels, while [ç] occurs elsewhere. German and English listeners heard “allophonic” ([ç-x]) and “non-allophonic” ([ç-f], [x-f]) continua after front and back vowels. Vowel affected German responses to [ç-x] and [ç-f], but not [x-f]. Vowel affected English responses to all continua. The asymmetric effect on German responses is explained as a perceptual expectation of [ç] after [y]. The effect on English responses is explained by acoustic misparsing, which causes some of the vowel's spectrum to cue a spectrally similar fricative.
Hydroxylation of the surface of PbS nanocrystals passivated with oleic acid
Authors: Zherebetskyy Danylo , Scheele Marcus , Zhang Yingjie , Bronstein Noah , Thompson Christopher , Britt David , Salmeron Miquel , Alivisatos Paul , Wang Lin-Wang
Published: May 2014

Nanoparticle lattices and surfaces

The challenge of resolving the details of the surfaces or assemblies of colloidal semiconductor nanoparticles can be overcome if several characterization methods are used (see the Perspective by Boles and Talapin). Boneschanscher
et al.
examined honeycomb superlattices of lead selenide nanocrystals formed by the bonding of crystal faces using several methods, including high-resolution electron microscopy and tomography. The structure had octahedral symmetry with the nanocrystals distorted through “necking”: the expansion of the contact points between the nanocrystals. Zherebetskyy
et al.
used a combination of theoretical calculations and spectroscopic methods to study the surface layer of lead sulfide nanocrystals synthesized in water. In addition to the oleic acid groups that capped the nanocrystals, hydroxyl groups were present as well.

Science
, this issue p.
1377
, p.
1380
; see also p.
1340
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Citrobacter rodentium Bacteriophages, CR8 and CR44b
Authors: Toribio Ana Luisa , Pickard Derek , Cerdeño-Tárraga Ana M. , Petty Nicola K. , Thomson Nicholas , Salmond George , Dougan Gordon
Published: May 2014

The complete genomes of two virulent phages infecting
Citrobacter rodentium
are reported here for the first time. Both bacteriophages were isolated from local sewage treatment plant effluents. Genome analyses revealed a close relationship between both phages and allowed their classification as members of the
Autographivirinae
subfamily in the T7-like genus.
Draft Genome Sequence of Enterobacter cloacae Strain JD6301
Authors: Wilson Jessica G. , French William T. , Lipzen Anna , Martin Joel , Schackwitz Wendy , Woyke Tanja , Shapiro Nicole , Bullard James W. , Champlin Franklin R. , Donaldson Janet R.
Published: May 2014

Enterobacter cloacae
strain JD6301 was isolated from a mixed culture with wastewater collected from a municipal treatment facility and oleaginous microorganisms. A draft genome sequence of this organism indicates that it has a genome size of 4,772,910 bp, an average G+C content of 53%, and 4,509 protein-coding genes.
Genome Sequence of Sporolactobacillus terrae DSM 11697, the Type Strain of the Species
Authors: Huang Kaiming , Ni Jun , Xu Ke , Tang Hongzhi , Tao Fei , Xu Ping
Published: May 2014

Sporolactobacillus terrae
DSM 11697 is the type strain of
S. terrae
. Here, we present a 3.2-Mb assembly of its genome sequence. As
S. terrae
is one of the important lactic acid bacteria, the genome sequence may provide insights into the molecular mechanism for its further microbial investigation.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus animalis 381-IL-28
Authors: Sturino Joseph M. , Rajendran Mahitha , Altermann Eric
Published: May 2014

Lactobacillus animalis
381-IL-28 is an integral component of a multistrain commercial culture with food biopreservative and pathogen biocontrol functionality. A draft sequence of the
L. animalis
381-IL-28 genome is described in this paper.
Draft Genome Sequence of Raoultella ornithinolytica TNT, a Trinitrotoluene-Denitrating and Plant Growth-Promoting Strain Isolated from Explosive-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Thijs Sofie , Van Hamme Jonathan , Gkorezis Panagiotis , Rineau Francois , Weyens Nele , Vangronsveld Jaco
Published: May 2014

We report the draft genome of
Raoultella ornithinolytica
TNT, a Gram-negative bacterium of the
Enterobacteriaceae
isolated from military soil in Belgium. Strain TNT uses nitrite released from trinitrotoluene (TNT) for growth and is a potent plant growth promoter. An analysis of its 5.6-Mb draft genome will bring insights into TNT degradation-reinforcing bioremediation applications.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus cereus Strain A1, an Efficient Starch-Utilizing Producer of Hydrogen
Authors: Zhang Ting , Bao Meidan , Wang Yu , Su Haijia , Tan Tianwei
Published: May 2014

Bacillus cereus
strain A1 is a newly isolated hydrogen producer capable of utilizing bioresources and biowaste, such as starch and starch wastewater. Here, we present a 5.67-Mb assembly of the genome sequence of strain A1, which may provide insights into the molecular mechanism of hydrogen production from bioresources and biowaste.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium triplex DSM 44626
Authors: Sassi Mohamed , Croce Olivier , Robert Catherine , Raoult Didier , Drancourt Michel
Published: May 2014

We announce the draft genome sequence of
Mycobacterium triplex
strain DSM 44626, a nontuberculosis species responsible for opportunistic infections. The genome described here is composed of 6,382,840 bp, with a G+C content of 66.57%, and contains 5,988 protein-coding genes and 81 RNA genes.
Complete Genome Sequences of Pseudomonas monteilii SB3078 and SB3101, Two Benzene-, Toluene-, and Ethylbenzene-Degrading Bacteria Used for Bioaugmentation
Authors: Dueholm Morten S. , Albertsen Mads , D'Imperio Seth , Tale Vaibhav P. , Lewis Derrick , Nielsen Per Halkjær , Nielsen Jeppe Lund
Published: May 2014

Pseudomonas monteilii
SB3078 and SB3101 are benzene-, toluene-, and ethylbenzene-degrading strains used for bioaugmentation in relation to treatment of wastewater contaminated with petrochemical hydrocarbons. Complete genome sequencing of the bioaugmentation strains confirms that they are very closely related (100.0% average nucleotide identity). Both strains contain extensive integration of phage elements, with the main difference being insertion of additional phage elements in the SB3078 genome.
Complete Genome of Rhodococcus pyridinivorans SB3094, a Methyl-Ethyl-Ketone-Degrading Bacterium Used for Bioaugmentation
Authors: Dueholm Morten S. , Albertsen Mads , D'Imperio Seth , Tale Vaibhav P. , Lewis Derrick , Nielsen Per Halkjær , Nielsen Jeppe Lund
Published: May 2014

Here, we present the complete genome of
Rhodococcus pyridinivorans
SB3094, a methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK)-degrading strain used for bioaugmentation relating to the treatment of wastewater contamination with petrochemical hydrocarbons. The genome highlights important features for bioaugmentation, including the genes involved in the degradation of MEK.
Draft Genome Sequence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis Strain ET-024, Isolated from an Endotracheal Tube Biofilm of a Mechanically Ventilated Patient
Authors: Vandecandelaere Ilse , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Deforce Dieter , Nelis Hans J. , Coenye Tom
Published: May 2014

Staphylococcus epidermidis
strain ET-024 was isolated from a biofilm on an endotracheal tube of a mechanically ventilated patient. This strain is resistant to methicillin, and the draft genome sequence shares some characteristics with other nosocomial
S. epidermidis
strains (such as
S. epidermidis
RP62A).
Genome Sequence of the Native Apiculate Wine Yeast
Hanseniaspora vineae
T02/19AF
Authors: Giorello Facundo M. , Berná Luisa , Greif Gonzalo , Camesasca Laura , Salzman Valentina , Medina Karina , Robello Carlos , Gaggero Carina , Aguilar Pablo S. , Carrau Francisco
Published: May 2014

The use of novel yeast strains for winemaking improves quality and provides variety including subtle characteristic differences in fine wines. Here we report the first genome of a yeast strain native to Uruguay,
Hanseniaspora vineae
T02/19AF, which has been shown to positively contribute to aroma and wine quality.
Systemic thrombolysis: cure for prosthetic mitral valve thrombosis in the comorbid, non-surgical candidate
Authors: Beckord Brian , Berkowitz Robert , Espinoza Cholene , Anand Neil
Published: May 2014

Severe haemolytic anaemia is a rare complication of prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT). Emergent surgical replacement of the affected valve is normally the treatment of choice unless contraindicated, such as in high surgical risk patients. Systemic thrombolysis is the alternative to surgical valve replacement. The purpose of this report is to highlight the unique case of an elderly man with New York Heart Association class IV heart failure, history of extensive cardiopulmonary surgeries and haemorrhagic stroke, who presented with severe haemolytic anaemia secondary to prosthetic mitral valve thrombosis. After weighing the risks and benefits, our decision was to use systemic thrombolytic therapy, even in light of the patient's previous intracranial haemorrhage. Pretreatment and post-treatment Doppler echocardiography showed markedly reduced regurgitant jetting that ultimately resolved completely, thereby eliminating the underlying cause of haemolysis and achieving symptom resolution.
Incidental finding of papillary thyroid carcinoma with BRAFV600Emutation in a patient with coexistent primary hyperparathyroidism and Graves’ hyperthyroidism
Authors: He Yayi , Liu Shu , Guo Hui , Shi Bingyin
Published: May 2014

The simultaneous occurrence of hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism was previously reported to be rare, but it was recognised more and more clearly by effective evaluations. Recent studies also mentioned the coexistence of parathyroid adenoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). The potential mechanism is still unknown. We report a case of a 46-year-old man coexisted with primary hyperparathyroidism, Graves’ hyperthyroidism and occult PTC. The patient had a 6-month history of polyphagia and irritability. Blood examinations showed elevated serum calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. Serum phosphate was lower. Thyroid function evaluation indicted Graves’ hyperthyroidism. Ultrasound showed a solitary hyperchoic thyroid nodule in the right gland. Parathyroid radioisotope scanning found a mild enhancement of 99mTc absorption in the lower part of the right parathyroid gland. A surgical exploration was carried out and the parathyroid adenoma resection was performed. An occult micro-PTC with BRAFV600Emutation was also detected.
Sleeping with the fishes: electromagnetic interference causing an inappropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator shock
Authors: Knight Hui Min , Cakebread Holly Elizabeth , Gajendragadkar Parag Ravindra , Duehmke Rudolf Martin
Published: May 2014

A 60-year-old man with a cardiac defibrillator implanted due to previous ventricular fibrillation arrest and ischaemic cardiomyopathy received a shock while cleaning his fish pond. At the time, his immersed arm was close to a submersed water pump, but the patient was asymptomatic. As a result of the shock he lost consciousness, but collapsed backwards, away from the pond. Interrogation of the device revealed a high-frequency artefact that was sensed by the device and triggered a shock. Device parameters were otherwise normal. Subsequently, the submersed water pump was found to be the source of an external alternating current leak and was identified as the likely cause of the inappropriate shock due to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Awareness of potential sources of EMI along with evaluation of data with a detailed clinical history is warranted in all cases.
Urolithiasis in primary obstructive megaureter: a management dilemma
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Goel Apul , Singh Manmeet , Sankwar Satya Narayan
Published: May 2014

Megaureter with urolithiasis is an uncommon entity. These stones may be located in the kidney, ureter or both. Management of these cases is difficult due to free mobility and stone multiplicity. As there are no guidelines about the management, the surgeon usually manages according to her/his experience, stone location or burden. The goal is to remove the stones and reimplant the ureters in the same session, if possible. We describe single-stage management of one such patient who presented with bilateral multiple ureteral and left renal stones. The left ureteral stones were first flushed into the kidney by the ureteroscope. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy was then performed and stones were removed intact. The patient was then turned supine and the location of right ureteral stones was confirmed by fluoroscopy in the same location (right lower ureter). The patient underwent successful bilateral ureteroneocystostomy with simultaneous removal of right lower ureteral stones.
Treatment of myelitis in Behçet's disease with rituximab
Authors: Messina Maria Josè , Rodegher Mariaemma , Scotti Roberta , Martinelli Vittorio
Published: May 2014

Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that involves the parenchymal central nervous system (neuro-BD, NBD) approximately in 5–49% of patients, causing lesions rarely located in the spinal cord (SC). We report the first case of NBD-myelitis treated with intravenous rituximab. A 41-year-old man affected by BD presented with mild paraparesis with a miliary involvement and a ‘net-like’ gadolinium enhancement (Gde) of the SC. After a therapeutic attempt with pulsed cyclophosphamide and intravenous methylprednisolone, the clinical and neuroradiological course worsened. A progressive improvement was observed after rituximab administration associated with low doses of oral prednisone. No disease activity was detected and the patient reported no adverse event. After six rituximab cycles, cervical MRI was normal while thoracic MRI showed a slight T2–weighted hyperintensity of D4–D10 spinal tract without Gde. A combined use of rituximab and oral steroids resulted in a long-term suppression of NBD activity without any safety concern.
Unusual presentation of a scrotal tumour
Authors: Sarkar Debashis , Parr Nijel J
Published: May 2014

A 59-year-old man had a wide excision of the right-sided scrotal cancer in the neck of the scrotum. On dissection it became apparent that the tumour had developed a blood supply from the right spermatic cord. Histology revealed G2T2 squamous cell carcinoma. A biopsy from an abnormal skin area from the opposite groin reported chronic folliculitis. He underwent an ultrasound scanning of the groin and fine-needle aspiration, which did not show any suspicious features. Follow-up CT of the abdomen and pelvis after 6 weeks did not show any evidence of intra-abdominal lymphadenopathy. Another CT has been arranged within the next 3 months to confirm that the spread of the tumour does not follow the pattern of a testicular tumour.