bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
70 GONADAL DEVELOPMENT IN GUINEA PIG MALES (CAVIA PORCELLUS)
Authors: Oliveira F. , Santos A. , Neto A. A.
Published: December 2015

Sexual differentiation in mammals is an event that presents many variations between species. Because it is related to hormonal function, any imbalance in the androgens and estrogens production can lead to malformations. Because sexual differentiation occurs in different ways among various animals, the recognition of their peculiarities becomes important in order to correct reproductive handling in different species. Considering that the guinea pig is commonly used as an experimental model in the reproductive area, the goal of this work was to perform a morphological description of gonad differentiation of the male guinea pig during embryonic development. In total, 11 conceptuses with ages 25 (n = 3), 30 (n = 2), 40 (n = 2), 50 (n = 2), and 65 (n = 2) days were used for light microscopy processing. The embryos at 25 days were processed completely. For the others, the gonads were dissected. The samples were dehydrated in alcohol, embedded in paraffin, and 5-µm sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin. In the guinea pig gonad at 25 days gestation, there was a presence of gonadal cords, formed by condensation of somatic cells, which is characteristic of an undifferentiated gonad. In addition, we observed the presence of mesonephric and paramesonephric ducts in different embryos, indicating that other genital system organs were not formed. For the 30 days of development of guinea pigs, we observed that gonadal cords were differentiated in testicular cords by invasion of mesenchymal and endothelial cells, and also composed of Sertoli cells and primordial germ cells. These cords were among a large amount of testicular mesenchyme at the 40-day group. With 50- and 65-day development samples, the gonad was completely differentiated into testicle, with the presence of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules, and a large amount of interstitial Leydig cells around the tubules. We conclude that gonadal differentiation in guinea pig males occurs around the middle of pregnancy, between 25 and 30 days and that, before the end of the pregnancy, at 50 days, the testicle presents morphology similar to that found in the postnatal period.
8 RESPONSE OF COMMUNAL COWS TO OESTRUS SYNCHRONIZATION AND TIMED ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Authors: Raphalalani Z. C. , Nephawe K. A. , Mphaphathi M. L. , Ramukhithi F. V. , Seshoka M. M. , Nkadimeng M. , Maqhashu A. , Bopape M. A. , Seolwana L. F. , Mapeka M. H. , Kanuya N. L. , Nedambale T. L.
Published: December 2015

Reproductive technologies such as oestrus synchronization and AI have been tested in controlled environments in the commercial farms in South Africa but not in an uncontrolled communal setup. The aims of the study were to evaluate the response of communal cows to oestrus synchronization and timed AI. The effects of age and body condition score (BCS) on oestrus response and conception rate were also studied. A total of 96 cows were selected from the communal villages. Cows with the BCS of 2.5 to 4.5 (on a scale of 1–5) and age between 3 and 10 years were used. Cows were grouped into 2 BCS groups (<3 and = 3) and 2 age groups (<6 and = 6). All groups were subjected to a 9-day Ovsynch + CIDR (CIDR®; Pfizer Laboratories, New York, NY, USA) protocol. A CIDR® was inserted into the vagina on Day 0 (random days of the cycle), and 2 mg of oestradiol benzoate (Ciderol®; Pfizer Laboratories) was administered. On Day 8, the CIDR® was removed, and the cows were administered with 500 μg of cloprostenol (PGF; Estrumate®, Schering-Plough Animal Health). In addition, on Day 9, cows were given 1 mg of oestradiol benzoate, and a heat mount detector (Karma®; Four Lakes) was placed on the tail head of the cows to detect oestrus response (standing heat). All the synchronized cows were then inseminated at 36 and 42 h with frozen-thawed Nguni bull semen following oestradiol benzoate injection. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 90 days following timed AI using ultrasound scanner and transrectal palpation. Data were analysed using ANOVA. An overall 73% oestrus response and 45% conception rate were achieved in this study. There was no significant difference in oestrus response in cows with a BCS <3 (67%) and = 3 (83%) or age <6 (77%) and = 6 (72%). There was no significant difference in conception rate between those <6 (41%) and = 6 (47%) years of age. However, cows with a BCS of = 3 had greater (P < 0.05) conception rate (55%) compared with those with a BCS <3 (35%). In conclusion, communal cows responded to an oestrus synchronization program involving timed AI. The BCS and age did not alter the oestrus response, but conception rate was higher in communal cows with BCS of = 3.
83 IN LOW OXYGEN CULTURE, IS HYPOTAURINE NECESSARY FOR IN VITRO DEVELOPMENT OF PORCINE EMBRYOS?
Authors: Benne J. A. , Spate L. D. , Elliott B. M. , Prather R. S.
Published: December 2015

For decades it has been known that reactive oxidative species (ROS) form during in vitro embryo culture. A buildup of ROS can be detrimental to individual cells in the embryo and lead to a decrease in development and quality. To overcome oxidative stress in culture systems, additives, such as taurine and/or hypotaurine, have been used. In the pig, taurine or hypotaurine addition is deemed necessary for normal in vitro development. Another commonly used technique to reduce ROS is to culture embryos in a lowered oxygen environment (e.g. 5%). Porcine zygote medium 3 (PZM3) base culture medium is used in the following experiments and contains 5 mM hypotaurine, which is one of the most costly additives in the medium. The objective of this experiment was to determine if hypotaurine is still necessary if the embryos were cultured in 5% O2 from the zygote to the Day 6 blastocyst stage. In Experiment 1, oocytes were matured for 44 h and fertilized in vitro. After fertilization, presumptive zygotes were then transferred to 500 µL of MU-1 medium (PZM3 with 1.69 mM arginine) that either contained or did not contain hypotaurine for overnight culture at 20% O2. On Day 1, the same embryo culture plates were moved to 5% O2, 5% CO2, and 90% N2 and cultured to Day 6. The percent blastocyst stage was determined, and total cell number was counted in 3 of the 5 replicates in order to give us an indication of the embryo quality. The percent blastocyst in the controls (+hypotaurine) was 34.4% ± 2.8 and not different from the no hypotaurine (32.9% ± 2.2; N = 830; 5 replications; P > 0.10). Furthermore, total cell number was not different between the two groups (30.8 ± 1.5 v. 33.6 ± 1.8, respectively, N = 146; 3 replications; P > 0.10). In Experiment 2, the same experiment was repeated in somatic cell nuclear transfer derived embryos, which may be more sensitive to ROS due to the micromanipulation procedure. Wild type fetal fibroblast cells were used as donor cells. There was no significant difference in development to the blastocyst stage due to the presence or absence of hypotaurine (17.7% ± 2.5 v. 11.8% ± 2.3, respectively; N = 454; 4 replications; P = 0.07). All blastocyst data were analysed using the GENMOD procedure in SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA), and cell number data were analysed using the PROC GLM also with SAS 9.4. These data show that porcine embryos can be efficiently cultured to the blastocyst stage without adding any oxygen free radical scavengers to the media when culturing in reduced oxygen atmosphere. Further studies include evaluating term development via embryo transfers and measuring ROS production of these embryos.
Funding was provided by Food for the 21st Century and the National Institutes of Health (U42 OD011140).
Structural and functional analysis of two di-domain aromatase/cyclases from type II polyketide synthases
Authors: Caldara-Festin Grace , Jackson David R. , Barajas Jesus F. , Valentic Timothy R. , Patel Avinash B. , Aguilar Stephanie , Nguyen MyChi , Vo Michael , Khanna Avinash , Sasaki Eita , Liu Hung-wen , Tsai Shiou-Chuan
Published: December 2015

Significance

Polyketides are a class of diverse natural products with well-documented bioactivity and medicinal importance. Enzymes known as aromatase/cyclases (ARO/CYCs) catalyze regiospecific cyclization and aromatization during type II polyketide biosynthesis. Understanding how ARO/CYCs catalyze cyclization and aromatization is critical for developing strategies for engineering biosynthetic pathways. This is the first study, to our knowledge, to use X-ray crystallography, bioinformatic and structural analysis, and in vitro functional assays to critically compare a reducing di-domain ARO/CYC (BexL) and a nonreducing di-domain ARO/CYC (StfQ). Together, these results fill in a missing link in the structural enzymology of polyketide biosynthesis and will have a direct effect on future biosynthetic engineering efforts and bioinformatic analysis of type II PKS gene clusters.
Ground-Based Thermal Imaging of Stream Surface Temperatures: Technique and Evaluation
Authors: Bonar Scott A. , Petre Sally J.
Published: December 2015

We evaluated a ground-based handheld thermal imaging system for measuring water temperatures using data from eight southwestern USA streams and rivers. We found handheld thermal imagers could provide considerably more spatial information on water temperature (for our unit one image = 19,600 individual temperature measurements) than traditional methods could supply without a prohibitive amount of effort. Furthermore, they could provide measurements of stream surface temperature almost instantaneously compared with most traditional handheld thermometers (e.g., >20 s/reading). Spatial temperature analysis is important for measurement of subtle temperature differences across waterways, and identification of warm and cold groundwater inputs. Handheld thermal imaging is less expensive and equipment intensive than airborne thermal imaging methods and is useful under riparian canopies. Disadvantages of handheld thermal imagers include their current higher expense than thermometers, their susceptibility to interference when used incorrectly, and their slightly lower accuracy than traditional temperature measurement methods. Thermal imagers can only measure surface temperature, but this usually corresponds to subsurface temperatures in well-mixed streams and rivers. Using thermal imaging in select applications, such as where spatial investigations of water temperature are needed, or in conjunction with stationary temperature data loggers or handheld electronic or liquid-in-glass thermometers to characterize stream temperatures by both time and space, could provide valuable information on stream temperature dynamics. These tools will become increasingly important to fisheries biologists as costs continue to decline.

Received October 3, 2014; accepted September 3, 2015
System-Specific Variability in Murray Cod and Golden Perch Maturation and Growth Influences Fisheries Management Options
Authors: Forbes Jamin P. , Watts Robyn J. , Robinson Wayne A. , Baumgartner Lee J. , Allen Micheal S. , McGuffie Prue , Cameron Leo M. , Crook David A.
Published: December 2015

The Murray Cod Maccullochella peelii and Golden Perch Macquaria ambigua are important recreational species in Australia's Murray–Darling Basin (MDB); both species have declined substantially, but recovery is evident in some areas. Minimum length limits (MLLs)—implemented to ensure fish could spawn at least once prior to harvest eligibility—have increased three times in the past decade. We quantified variation in length at 50% maturity (LM50), age at 50% maturity (AM50), and von Bertalanffy growth parameters (k = Brody growth coefficient; L∞ = asymptotic length; t0 = theoretical age at zero length) of these species within two rivers and two reservoirs of the MDB; to investigate whether fish length is a suitable surrogate for AM50 in setting MLLs. Between 2006 and 2013, we collected 1,118 Murray Cod and 1,742 Golden Perch by electrofishing and gillnetting. Values of k and L∞ were greater for reservoir fish than for riverine fish. For both species, AM50 was generally greater in rivers than in reservoirs; for Murray Cod, LM50 was greater in reservoirs than in rivers. A yield-per-recruit model demonstrated that smaller Murray Cod MLLs would be required for rivers and that an MLL at or below 600 mm (the existing MLL) across all populations could lead to overfishing in some systems. The differences in growth rate and the onset of reproductive maturation between riverine and reservoir populations suggest that system-specific regulations would be more effective at reducing the overfishing risk and meeting fishing quality objectives.

Received August 18, 2014; accepted September 10, 2015
Effects of Antimycin and its Neutralizing Agent, Potassium Permanganate, on Aquatic Macroinvertebrates in a Great Smoky Mountains National Park Watershed
Authors: Gibbs W. Keith , Kulp Matt A. , Moore Steve E. , Cook S. Bradford
Published: December 2015

We assessed the effects of antimycin (Fintrol) on benthic macroinvertebrates during a large Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis restoration project in the southeastern United States. Control and treatment sites were established in first- through fourth-order streams throughout the watershed and below the fish passage barrier where a neutralizing agent (potassium permanganate [KMnO4]) was administered. Hess samples were collected before and after chemical application (short term: 1 and 2 months after; long term: 9 and 12 months after). Analysis of similarity, nonmetric multidimensional scaling, and repeated-measures ANOVA were used to determine differences in assemblage metrics among control, treatment, and neutralization sites over time. Macroinvertebrate communities and their responses to antimycin were different at downstream (third- and fourth-order) sites relative to headwater (first- and second-order) sites. Overall, abundances (especially stonefly and caddisfly abundances) increased after antimycin application, reflecting a positive response within the macroinvertebrate assemblage. Several variables, including mayfly and stonefly abundances, were significantly different among control, concentrated-KMnO4, and dilute-KMnO4 sites; however, differences were undetectable after 9 months. Many taxa were substantially more abundant several months after treatment, indicating a thriving macroinvertebrate assemblage throughout the watershed. Future studies yielding similar results would suggest that native fish stocking efforts can commence shortly after chemical degradation.

Received May 2, 2014; accepted September 10, 2015
Genetic Stock Structure of Terapon jarbua in Taiwanese Waters
Authors: Liu Shang-Yin Vanson , Huang I-Hsiang , Liu Min-Yun , Lin Hung-Du , Wang Feng-Yu , Liao Te-Yu
Published: December 2015

Over the past century, stock identification, which is crucial for fisheries stock assessments, has relied heavily on intraspecies variations to differentiate management units. In recent years, however, DNA approaches have shed additional light on some aspects of the natural history and ecology of species and stocks. The Crescent Grunter Terapon jarbua is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region. It inhabits coastal waters with sandy substrates and tends to aggregate in estuaries. In the present study, we collected 96 individuals of T. jarbua from 10 locations around the shoreline of Taiwan as well as near Guangdong, China. A concatenated sequence (1,753 bp) of mtDNA (cytochrome c oxidase I and cytochrome b) was obtained from all individuals. We discovered two genetically distinct clades (lineages A and B) with different historical demographies occurring sympatrically except at the Yilan collection site, which was dominated by lineage A haplotypes. Connectivity within this region is high according to FST and AMOVA tests. The genetic variation between the two clades is far below the interspecies threshold for the genus Terapon (0.007 versus 0.3156). Therefore, we suggest that they be considered different genetic stocks from a fisheries management point of view and that future stock reassessment should be conducted based on the genetic information provided in this study. Further large-scale sampling is needed to understand the mechanisms that drive genetic partitioning on regional (Northwest Pacific) and global (Indo-Pacific) scales.

Received February 9, 2015; accepted July 9, 2015
Geometry of second adjointness for 𝑝-adic groups
Authors: Bezrukavnikov Roman , Kazhdan David
Published: December 2015

We present a geometric proof of second adjointness for a reductive

p
p

-adic group. Our approach is based on geometry of the wonderful compactification and related varieties. Considering asymptotic behavior of a function on the group in a neighborhood of a boundary stratum of the compactification, we get a “cospecialization” map between spaces of functions on various varieties carrying a

G
×
G

G\times G

action. These maps can be viewed as maps of bimodules for the Hecke algebra, and the corresponding natural transformations of endo-functors of the module category lead to the second adjointness. We also get a formula for the “cospecialization” map expressing it as a composition of the orispheric transform and inverse intertwining operator; a parallel result for

D
D

-modules was obtained by Bezrukavnikov, Finkelberg and Ostrik. As a byproduct we obtain a formula for the Plancherel functional restricted to a certain commutative subalgebra in the Hecke algebra generalizing a result by Opdam.
Functional Status, Quality of Life, and Costs Associated With Fibromyalgia Subgroups
Authors: Luciano Juan V. , Forero Carlos G. , Cerdà-Lafont Marta , Peñarrubia-María María Teresa , Fernández-Vergel Rita , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I. , Ruíz José M. , Rozadilla-Sacanell Antoni , Sirvent-Alierta Elena , Santo-Panero Pilar , García-Campayo Javier , Serrano-Blanco Antoni , Pérez-Aranda Adrián , Rubio-Valera María
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

Although fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) is considered a heterogeneous condition, there is no generally accepted subgroup typology. We used hierarchical cluster analysis and latent profile analysis to replicate Giesecke’s classification in Spanish FM patients. The second aim was to examine whether the subgroups differed in sociodemographic characteristics, functional status, quality of life, and in direct and indirect costs.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 160 FM patients completed the following measures for cluster derivation: the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, the Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, and the Control over Pain subscale. Pain threshold was measured with a sphygmomanometer. In addition, the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire-Revised, the EuroQoL-5D-3L, and the Client Service Receipt Inventory were administered for cluster validation.

Results:

Two distinct clusters were identified using hierarchical cluster analysis (“hypersensitive” group, 69.8% and “functional” group, 30.2%). In contrast, the latent profile analysis goodness-of-fit indices supported the existence of 3 FM patient profiles: (1) a “functional” profile (28.1%) defined as moderate tenderness, distress, and pain catastrophizing; (2) a “dysfunctional” profile (45.6%) defined by elevated tenderness, distress, and pain catastrophizing; and (3) a “highly dysfunctional and distressed” profile (26.3%) characterized by elevated tenderness and extremely high distress and catastrophizing. We did not find significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics between the 2 clusters or among the 3 profiles. The functional profile was associated with less impairment, greater quality of life, and lower health care costs.

Discussion:

We identified 3 distinct profiles which accounted for the heterogeneity of FM patients. Our findings might help to design tailored interventions for FM patients.
Pediatric Traumatic Amputations in the United States: A 5-Year Review
Authors: Borne Allen , Porter Austin , Recicar John , Maxson Todd , Montgomery Corey
Published: December 2015

Background:

Pediatric traumatic amputations are devastating injuries capable of causing permanent physical and psychological sequelae. Few epidemiologic reports exist for guidance of prevention strategies. The objective of this study is to review the recent trends in pediatric traumatic amputations using a national databank.

Methods:

A review of all pediatric (age, 0 to 17 y) amputee patients was performed using the National Trauma Data Bank from 2007 to 2011. Data including demographics, location of amputation, and mechanism of injury were analyzed.

Results:

In the analysis 2238 patients were identified. The majority of amputations occurred in the youngest (0 to 5 y) and oldest (15 to 17 y) age groups with a 3:1 male to female ratio. The most common amputation locations were finger (54%) and toe (20%). A caught between mechanism (16.3%) was most common overall followed by machinery, powered lawn mowers, motor vehicle collisions, firearms, and off-road vehicles. Males were statistically more likely to have an amputation and lawnmower injuries were statistically associated with lower extremity amputations in children 5 years old and below. Motor vehicle injuries were the most common cause of adolescent amputations. Firearm-related amputations occurred predominantly in adolescents, whereas off-road vehicle amputations occurred in all ages.

Conclusions:

Common trends in pediatric amputations are relatively unchanged over the last decade. Young children sustain more finger amputations from a caught between objects mechanism, whereas adolescents sustain serious amputations from higher energy mechanisms such as firearms-related and motor vehicle–related injuries. Lawnmower-related amputations continue to most significantly affect younger children despite increased public awareness. Improved prevention strategies targeting age and mechanism-related trends are necessary to prevent these costly and debilitating injuries.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
Relationships Between 3 Classification Systems in Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy
Authors: Greenhill Dustin A. , Lukavsky Robert , Tomlinson-Hansen Sandra , Kozin Scott H. , Zlotolow Dan A.
Published: December 2015

Background:

The Mallet scale, Active Movement Scale (AMS), and Toronto Test are validated for use in children with brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP). However, the inability to compare these evaluation systems has led to difficulty gauging treatment efficacy and interpreting available literature in which multiple scoring systems are reported. Given the critical importance of physical examination, we compared 3 scoring systems to clarify statistical relationships between current validated evaluation methods.

Methods:

The medical records of children with BPBP treated at a single institution over a 14-year period were retrospectively reviewed. Modified Mallet, AMS, and Toronto scores were recorded throughout the entire period. Data were included if at least 2 complete scoring systems were documented during the same examination session. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated for all composite and subscore combinations. A concordance table was constructed for select variables found to be highly correlated.

Results:

Total single-session score combinations were as follows: 157 Mallet and AMS, 325 AMS and Toronto, and 143 Mallet and Toronto. Composite AMS and Toronto scores were found to have a strong correlation (r=0.928, P<0.001). A concordance table comparing these variables revealed that a Toronto score of 3.5 is concordant to an AMS score of 45. Modified Mallet scores had only a moderate correlation with composite AMS (r=0.512, P<0.001) and Toronto (r=0.458, P<0.001) scores. Specifically regarding the modified Mallet score, maneuvers requiring external rotation had stronger correlations with the composite modified Mallet score than maneuvers highlighting internal rotation.

Conclusions:

Modified Mallet scores do not correlate well with AMS or Toronto scores and should be utilized separately when managing children with BPBP. Similarly, AMS and Toronto scores are inadequate to guide clinical decisions for which the literature cites Mallet scores as outcome measures, and vice versa. Lastly, Mallet scores should incorporate an isolated internal rotation component to adequately assess midline function.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic level III.
Glycemic index, glycemic load and invasive breast cancer incidence in postmenopausal women: The PREDIMED study
Authors: Castro-Quezada Itandehui , Sánchez-Villegas Almudena , Martínez-González Miguel Á. , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Corella Dolores , Estruch Ramón , Schröder Helmut , Álvarez-Pérez Jacqueline , Ruiz-López María D. , Artacho Reyes , Ros Emilio , Bulló Mónica , Sorli Jose V. , Fitó Montserrat , Ruiz-Gutiérrez Valentina , Toledo Estefanía , Buil-Cosiales Pilar , García Rodríguez Antonio , Lapetra José , Pintó Xavier , Salaverría Itziar , Tur Josep A. , Romaguera Dora , Tresserra-Rimbau Anna , Serra-Majem Lluís
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the prospective associations between dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) and the risk for invasive breast cancer incidence in postmenopausal women at high cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. This study was conducted within the framework of the PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea (PREDIMED) study, a nutritional intervention trial for primary cardiovascular prevention. We included 4010 women aged between 60 and 80 years who were initially free from breast cancer but at high risk for CVD disease. Dietary information was collected using a validated 137-item food frequency questionnaire. We assigned GI values using the International Tables of GI and GL values. Cases were ascertained through yearly consultation of medical records and through consultation of the National Death Index. Only cases confirmed by results from cytology tests or histological evaluation were included. We estimated multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios for invasive breast cancer risk across tertiles of energy-adjusted dietary GI/GL using Cox regression models. We repeated our analyses using yearly repeated measures of GI/GL intakes. No associations were found between baseline dietary GI/GL and invasive breast cancer incidence. The multivariable hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the top tertile of dietary GI was 1.02 (95% CI: 0.42–2.46) and for dietary GL was 1.00 (95% CI: 0.44–2.30) when compared with the bottom tertile. Repeated-measures analyses yielded similar results. In sensitivity analyses, no significant associations were observed for women with obesity or diabetes. Dietary GI and GL did not appear to be associated with an increased risk for invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women at high CVD risk.
A risk prediction model for colorectal cancer using genome-wide association study-identified polymorphisms and established risk factors among Japanese: results from two independent case–control studies
Authors: Hosono Satoyo , Ito Hidemi , Oze Isao , Watanabe Miki , Komori Koji , Yatabe Yasushi , Shimizu Yasuhiro , Tanaka Hideo , Matsuo Keitaro
Published: December 2015

Most genome-wide association studies of colorectal cancer (CRC) carried out to date have been in populations with European ancestry, and the extent to which the identified variants contribute as predictors of CRC among Japanese populations has not been clarified. We analyzed 23 genetic variants identified in previous genome-wide association studies in a derivation case–control study with 558 cases and 1116 age-matched and sex-matched controls. Six single nucleotide polymorphisms were selected for synthesis of the genetic risk score. A dose-dependent association was observed between CRC risk and genetic risk score, which is the aggregate number of alleles in six selected variants: 8q24 – rs6983267, 15q13 – rs4779584 and rs1696961, 14q22 – rs444435, 16q22 – rs9929218, and 3q26.2 – rs1093599. The c statistic for a model that included the genetic risk score and conventional risk factors was 0.7167, versus 0.7009 with the conventional risk factors only (P=0.0013). This model was evaluated in a replication study with 547 cases and 547 age-matched and sex-matched controls, and the corresponding c statistics were 0.6356 and 0.6391 with no statistical significance. When the two studies were combined, the corresponding c statistics were 0.6132 and 0.6198 (P=0.0126). We developed a risk model that incorporates a genetic risk score and established risk factors, but this model was not satisfactory in the replication study. The results in the combined study still encourage further attempts using a similar approach among individual countries.
Diagnosis of prostate cancer by analyzing oxidative stress in human seminal plasma: developing unsophisticated tools for noninvasive prostate cancer diagnosis
Authors: Barrio-Muñoz Miriam , Abad-Gairín Carlos , Amengual-Guedán José M. , Prats-López Joan
Published: December 2015

Prostate-specific antigen blood testing has improved early detection of prostate cancer (PCa); however, PCa mortality has not decreased accordingly and a prostate biopsy is still required for a definitive diagnosis. Proteomic biomarker screening in easily available body fluids such as seminal plasma is now increasingly being proposed as a solution to improve PCa detection and prognosis. PCa cells typically produce high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, we therefore investigated ROS levels in semen samples from patients with a negative or a positive prostate biopsy to predict PCa diagnosis. Multiple clinicopathological parameters (digital rectal examination, prostate-specific antigen scoring, prostate biopsy, and ROS levels) of patients examined for PCa were measured. No significant differences in ROS levels were detected in relation to PCa diagnosis. Although seminal plasma is a well-suited medium for prostate-related biomarkers, no significant differences in ROS levels were observed between the patient groups. Comparison with ROS levels encountered in semen of larger patient groups is the next logical step.
A Population-based Investigation of Circadian Rhythm of Intraocular Pressure in Habitual Position Among Healthy Subjects: The Handan Eye Study
Authors: Wang Ning Li , Hao Jie , Zhen Yi , Liu John H.K. , Li Si Zhen , Wang Hao , Chen Hui , Peng Xiao Xia , Han Wei , Fan Su Jie , Weinreb Robert N.
Published: December 2015

Purpose:

(1) To investigate the reference value of peak-trough difference in circadian rhythm of intraocular pressure (IOP) in habitual position and (2) to compare the IOP parameters among 3 age groups.

Materials and Methods:

Habitual IOP of healthy subjects sampled from the population in the Handan Eye Study was measured every 2 hours in the seated position during light-wake period (7:30 am, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:30 PM, 9:30 PM) and in the supine position during dark-sleep period (11:30 PM, 1:30 AM, 3:30 AM, 5:30 AM). Blood pressure and heart rate were obtained subsequently at each IOP measurement.

Results:

Two hundred six healthy subjects were included in the final analyses (n=20, 30 to 39 y old; n=95, 40 to 49 y old; n=91, 50 to 59 y old). For peak-trough difference (7.2±2.3 mm Hg; 6.8 to 7.5 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval) in habitual position, the reference value was described as median 7.0 mm Hg, 25th percentile 5.5 mm Hg, and 95th percentile 11.5 mm Hg. No significant differences in peak-trough difference, acrophase (cosine-fit analysis derived peak timing) and amplitude (half distance between the cosine-fit maximum and minimum) were found among the 3 age groups. In the cosine model, the nocturnal acrophase (3:49±0.53 AM; 3:42 to 3:55 AM, 95% confidence interval) was detected for the entire group. Furthermore, 106 subjects (52%) had a nocturnal peak pattern, 36 subjects (17%) had a diurnal peak pattern, and 64 subjects (31%) had no evident pattern.

Conclusions:

In habitual position, 75% of healthy subjects from a population-based investigation had IOP variation >5.5 mm Hg and 95% subjects had <11.5 mm Hg variation. Aging may not influence the circadian habitual IOP rhythm.
Beating-Heart Sliding Arch Aortoplasty for Arch Hypoplasia beyond Infancy
Authors: Carlson Alyse M. , Tcheng Jason W. , Holgren Sarah E. , Turek Joseph W.
Published: December 2015

Hypoplasia of the aortic arch commonly accompanies coarctation of the aorta and should be addressed at the time of coarctation repair to prevent residual gradient. Using a novel technique, McKenzie et al performed an ascending sliding arch aortoplasty to correct hypoplasia using native aortic tissue. This procedure was accomplished with an arrested heart and uses the fact that the ascending aorta associated with the hypoplastic arch is typically elongated. We have furthered the development of the ascending sliding arch aortoplasty by performing the entire procedure without inducing cardiac arrest.
Adult and hatch-year blackpoll warblers exhibit radically different regional-scale movements during post-fledging dispersal
Authors: Brown J. Morgan , Taylor Philip D.
Published: December 2015

Using a broad-scale automated telemetry array, we explored post-fledging movements of blackpoll warblers breeding in Atlantic Canada. We sought to determine the full spatial scale of post-fledging dispersal, to assess support for three hypotheses for regional-scale post-fledging movement, and to determine whether learning influenced movement during this period. We demonstrated that both young and adults moved over distances more than 200 km prior to initiating migration. Adults moved southwest, crossing the Gulf of Maine (GOM), consistent with the commencement of migration hypothesis. Hatch-year birds exhibited less directional movements constrained geographically by the GOM. Their movements were most consistent with exploration hypotheses—that young birds develop a regional-scale map to aid in habitat selection, natal dispersal and subsequent migrations.
The microscopic network structure of mussel (
Mytilus
) adhesive plaques
Authors: Filippidi Emmanouela , DeMartini Daniel G. , Malo de Molina Paula , Danner Eric W. , Kim Juntae , Helgeson Matthew E. , Waite J. Herbert , Valentine Megan T.
Published: December 2015

Marine mussels of the genus
Mytilus
live in the hostile intertidal zone, attached to rocks, bio-fouled surfaces and each other via collagen-rich threads ending in adhesive pads, the plaques. Plaques adhere in salty, alkaline seawater, withstanding waves and tidal currents. Each plaque requires a force of several newtons to detach. Although the molecular composition of the plaques has been well studied, a complete understanding of supra-molecular plaque architecture and its role in maintaining adhesive strength remains elusive. Here, electron microscopy and neutron scattering studies of plaques harvested from
Mytilus californianus
and
Mytilus galloprovincialis
reveal a complex network structure reminiscent of structural foams. Two characteristic length scales are observed characterizing a dense meshwork (approx. 100 nm) with large interpenetrating pores (approx. 1 µm). The network withstands chemical denaturation, indicating significant cross-linking. Plaques formed at lower temperatures have finer network struts, from which we hypothesize a kinetically controlled formation mechanism. When mussels are induced to create plaques, the resulting structure lacks a well-defined network architecture, showcasing the importance of processing over self-assembly. Together, these new data provide essential insight into plaque structure and formation and set the foundation to understand the role of plaque structure in stress distribution and toughening in natural and biomimetic materials.
Supergroup C
Wolbachia
, mutualist symbionts of filarial nematodes, have a distinct genome structure
Authors: Comandatore Francesco , Cordaux Richard , Bandi Claudio , Blaxter Mark , Darby Alistair , Makepeace Benjamin L. , Montagna Matteo , Sassera Davide
Published: December 2015

Wolbachia pipientis
is possibly the most widespread endosymbiont of arthropods and nematodes. While all
Wolbachia
strains have historically been defined as a single species, 16 monophyletic clusters of diversity (called supergroups) have been described. Different supergroups have distinct host ranges and symbiotic relationships, ranging from mutualism to reproductive manipulation. In filarial nematodes, which include parasites responsible for major diseases of humans (such as
Onchocerca volvulus
, agent of river blindness) and companion animals (
Dirofilaria immitis,
the dog heartworm),
Wolbachia
has an obligate mutualist role and is the target of new treatment regimens. Here, we compare the genomes of eight
Wolbachia
strains, spanning the diversity of the major supergroups (A–F), analysing synteny, transposable element content, GC skew and gene loss or gain. We detected genomic features that differ between
Wolbachia
supergroups, most notably in the C and D clades from filarial nematodes. In particular, strains from supergroup C (symbionts of
O. volvulus
and
D. immitis
) present a pattern of GC skew, conserved synteny and lack of transposable elements, unique in the
Wolbachia
genus. These features could be the consequence of a distinct symbiotic relationship between C
Wolbachia
strains and their hosts, highlighting underappreciated differences between the mutualistic supergroups found within filarial nematodes.
Lst4, the yeast Fnip1/2 orthologue, is a DENN-family protein
Authors: Pacitto Angela , Ascher David B. , Wong Louise H. , Blaszczyk Beata K. , Nookala Ravi K. , Zhang Nianshu , Dokudovskaya Svetlana , Levine Tim P. , Blundell Tom L.
Published: December 2015

The folliculin/Fnip complex has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in the mechanisms underlying Birt–Hogg–Dubé (BHD) syndrome, a rare inherited cancer syndrome. Lst4 has been previously proposed to be the Fnip1/2 orthologue in yeast and therefore a member of the DENN family. In order to confirm this, we solved the crystal structure of the N-terminal region of Lst4 from
Kluyveromyces lactis
and show it contains a longin domain, the first domain of the full DENN module. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Lst4 through its DENN domain interacts with Lst7, the yeast folliculin orthologue. Like its human counterpart, the Lst7/Lst4 complex relocates to the vacuolar membrane in response to nutrient starvation, most notably in carbon starvation. Finally, we express and purify the recombinant Lst7/Lst4 complex and show that it exists as a 1 : 1 heterodimer in solution. This work confirms the membership of Lst4 and the Fnip proteins in the DENN family, and provides a basis for using the Lst7/Lst4 complex to understand the molecular function of folliculin and its role in the pathogenesis of BHD syndrome.
Decision-level adaptation in motion perception
Authors: Mather George , Sharman Rebecca J.
Published: December 2015

Prolonged exposure to visual stimuli causes a bias in observers' responses to subsequent stimuli. Such adaptation-induced biases are usually explained in terms of changes in the relative activity of sensory neurons in the visual system which respond selectively to the properties of visual stimuli. However, the bias could also be due to a shift in the observer's criterion for selecting one response rather than the alternative; adaptation at the decision level of processing rather than the sensory level. We investigated whether adaptation to implied motion is best attributed to sensory-level or decision-level bias. Three experiments sought to isolate decision factors by changing the nature of the participants' task while keeping the sensory stimulus unchanged. Results showed that adaptation-induced bias in reported stimulus direction only occurred when the participants' task involved a directional judgement, and disappeared when adaptation was measured using a non-directional task (reporting where motion was present in the display, regardless of its direction). We conclude that adaptation to implied motion is due to decision-level bias, and that a propensity towards such biases may be widespread in sensory decision-making.
Optimal complexity and fractal limits of self-similar tensegrities
Authors: De Tommasi D. , Marano G. C. , Puglisi G. , Trentadue F.
Published: December 2015

We study the optimal (minimum mass) problem for a prototypical self-similar tensegrity column. By considering both global and local instability, we obtain that mass minimization corresponds to the contemporary attainment of instability at all scales. The optimal tensegrity depends on a dimensionless main physical parameter
χ
0
that decreases as the tensegrity span increases or as the carried load decreases. As we show, the optimal complexity (number of self-similar replication tensegrities) grows as
χ
0
decreases with a fractal-like tensegrity limit. Interestingly, we analytically determine a power law dependence of the optimal mass and complexity on the main parameter
χ
0
.
An ellipticity domain for the distortional Hencky logarithmic strain energy
Authors: Ghiba Ionel-Dumitrel , Neff Patrizio , Martin Robert J.
Published: December 2015

We describe ellipticity domains for the isochoric elastic energyF↦∥devnlog⁡U∥2=∥log⁡FTF(detF)1/n∥2=14∥log⁡C(detC)1/n∥2forn=2,3, whereC=FTFforF∈GL+(n). Here,devnlogU=logU−(1/n) tr(logU)⋅1is the deviatoric part of the logarithmic strain tensorlog⁡U. Forn=2, we identify the maximal ellipticity domain, whereas forn=3, we show that the energy is Legendre–Hadamard (LH) elliptic in the setE3(W Hiso,LH,U,23):={U∈PSym(3)|∥dev3log⁡U∥2≤23},which is similar to the von Mises–Huber–Hencky maximum distortion strain energy criterion. Our results complement the characterization of ellipticity domains for the quadratic Hencky energyW H(F)=μ∥dev3log⁡U∥2+(κ/2)[tr(log⁡U)]2,U=FTFwithμ>0 andκ>23μ, previously obtained by Bruhnset al.
Exact non-classical symmetry solutions of Arrhenius reaction–diffusion
Authors: Broadbridge P. , Bradshaw-Hajek B. H. , Triadis D.
Published: December 2015

Exact solutions for nonlinear Arrhenius reaction–diffusion are constructed in
n
-dimensions. A single relationship between nonlinear diffusivity and the nonlinear reaction term leads to a non-classical Lie symmetry whose invariant solutions have a heat flux that is exponential in time (either growth or decay), and satisfying a linear Helmholtz equation in space. This construction also extends to heterogeneous diffusion wherein the nonlinear diffusivity factorizes to the product of a function of temperature and a function of position. Example solutions are given with applications to heat conduction in conjunction with either exothermic or endothermic reactions, and to soil–water flow in conjunction with water extraction by a web of plant roots.
Hierarchical bond graph modelling of biochemical networks
Authors: Gawthrop Peter J. , Cursons Joseph , Crampin Edmund J.
Published: December 2015

The bond graph approach to modelling biochemical networks is extended to allow hierarchical construction of complex models from simpler components. This is made possible by representing the simpler components as thermodynamically open systems exchanging mass and energy via ports. A key feature of this approach is that the resultant models are
robustly
thermodynamically compliant: the thermodynamic compliance is
not
dependent on precise numerical values of parameters. Moreover, the models are
reusable
owing to the well-defined interface provided by the energy ports. To extract bond graph model parameters from parameters found in the literature, general and compact formulae are developed to relate free-energy constants and equilibrium constants. The existence and uniqueness of solutions is considered in terms of fundamental properties of stoichiometric matrices. The approach is illustrated by building a hierarchical bond graph model of glycogenolysis in skeletal muscle.
Y-linked variation for autosomal immune gene regulation has the potential to shape sexually dimorphic immunity
Authors: Kutch Ian C. , Fedorka Kenneth M.
Published: December 2015

Sexually dimorphic phenotypes arise from the differential expression of male and female shared genes throughout the genome. Unfortunately, the underlying molecular mechanisms by which dimorphic regulation manifests and evolves are unclear. Recent work suggests that Y-chromosomes may play an important role, given that
Drosophila melanogaster
Ys were shown to influence the regulation of hundreds of X and autosomal genes. For Y-linked regulatory variation (YRV) to facilitate sexually dimorphic evolution, however, it must exist within populations (where selection operates) and influence male fitness. These criteria have seldom been investigated, leaving the potential for dimorphic evolution via YRV unclear. Interestingly, male and female
D. melanogaster
differ in immune gene regulation. Furthermore, immune gene regulation appears to be influenced by the Y-chromosome, suggesting it may contribute to dimorphic immune evolution. We address this possibility by introgressing Y-chromosomes from a single wild population into an isogenic background (to create Y-lines) and assessing immune gene regulation and bacterial defence. We found that Y-line males differed in their immune gene regulation and their ability to defend against
Serratia marcescens.
Moreover, gene expression and bacterial defence were positively genetically correlated. These data indicate that the Y-chromosome has the potential to shape the evolution of sexually dimorphic immunity in this system.
Temperature and population density determine reservoir regions of seasonal persistence in highland malaria
Authors: Siraj Amir S. , Bouma Menno J. , Santos-Vega Mauricio , Yeshiwondim Asnakew K. , Rothman Dale S. , Yadeta Damtew , Sutton Paul C. , Pascual Mercedes
Published: December 2015

A better understanding of malaria persistence in highly seasonal environments such as highlands and desert fringes requires identifying the factors behind the spatial reservoir of the pathogen in the low season. In these ‘unstable’ malaria regions, such reservoirs play a critical role by allowing persistence during the low transmission season and therefore, between seasonal outbreaks. In the highlands of East Africa, the most populated epidemic regions in Africa, temperature is expected to be intimately connected to where in space the disease is able to persist because of pronounced altitudinal gradients. Here, we explore other environmental and demographic factors that may contribute to malaria's highland reservoir. We use an extensive spatio-temporal dataset of confirmed monthly
Plasmodium falciparum
cases from 1995 to 2005 that finely resolves space in an Ethiopian highland. With a Bayesian approach for parameter estimation and a generalized linear mixed model that includes a spatially structured random effect, we demonstrate that population density is important to disease persistence during the low transmission season. This population effect is not accounted for in typical models for the transmission dynamics of the disease, but is consistent in part with a more complex functional form of the force of infection proposed by theory for vector-borne infections, only during the low season as we discuss. As malaria risk usually decreases in more urban environments with increased human densities, the opposite counterintuitive finding identifies novel control targets during the low transmission season in African highlands.