bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical Tacrolimus for Corneal Subepithelial Infiltrates Secondary to Adenoviral Keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Berisa Prado Silvia , Riestra Ayora Ana C. , Lisa Fernández Carlos , Chacón Rodríguez Manuel , Merayo-Lloves Jesús , Alfonso Sánchez José F.
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of topical tacrolimus compounded in the Pharmacy Service for the treatment of subepithelial corneal infiltrates (SEIs) secondary to adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients who had been dispensed topical tacrolimus for the treatment of SEIs during the previous year. Patients were treated with tacrolimus 0.03% eye drops twice daily or tacrolimus 0.02% ointment once daily. The following data were recorded: length of treatment, visual acuity before and after treatment, intraocular pressure before, during, and at the end of treatment, previous treatments, and the presence of SEIs after treatment. The subjective symptoms of the patients were also assessed.

Results:

Fifty-five patients (85 eyes) were included, 54.5% with bilateral involvement. A total of 31 (36.5%) eyes were treated with tacrolimus ointment and 54 eyes (63.5%) with tacrolimus eye drops. The median length of treatment was 185 days (p25–75: 93.5–426), and the mean follow-up duration was 363 days (p25–75: 148–540). In 62.35% of the eyes, the SEIs were reduced in number and size, and in 31.76%, they were eliminated. The patients had better visual acuity after treatment with highly statistically significant differences. Tolerance was good overall, being better in the eye drops group.

Conclusions:

Topical tacrolimus, compounded in the pharmacy, seems to be an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of SEIs secondary to adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis.
The principles of the surgical management of gastric cancer
Authors: Weledji Elroy P.
Published: July 2017

Surgery is the only curative therapy for gastric cancer but most operable gastric cancer presents in a locally advanced stage characterized by tumor infiltration of the serosa or the presence of regional lymph node metastases. Surgery alone is no longer the standard treatment for locally advanced gastric cancer as the prognosis is markedly improved by perioperative chemotherapy. The decisive factor for optimum treatment is the multidisciplinary team specialized in gastric cancer. However, despite multimodal therapy and adequate surgery only 30% of gastric cancer patients are alive at 3 years. This article reviewed the principles of the surgical management of gastric cancer (minimally invasive or open) and how this may optimize multimodal treatment.
Ellipsoid Smooth Muscle Tumor of the Lower Eyelid: An Exploration of Its Possible Origin
Authors: Jakobiec Frederick A. , Zakka Fouad R. , Bojovic Branko
Published: July 2017

Ocular adnexal smooth muscle masses/neoplasms are extremely rare. Such lesions are comparatively more common in the conjunctiva than in the orbit and are most unusual in the eyelid. A 58-year-old woman slowly developed over 4 months a firm, movable sausage-shaped lesion in the deep lateral half of the right lower eyelid. The lesion ran parallel to and above the orbital rim. At surgery, the lesion was located between the orbicularis muscle and the inferior orbital septum. The term ellipsoid is used descriptively and does not imply any particular biologic behavior. Immunohistochemical evaluation revealed smooth muscle actin and desmin positivity. Due to the ubiquity of small blood vessels and the absence of smooth muscle bundles in the potential space between the orbicularis striated muscle and the inferior orbital septum, venular smooth muscle emerges as a highly likely source for the lesion.
Efficacy of Two Different Liquid Nitrogen Cryotherapy Regimes in the Treatment of Plantar Viral Warts
Authors: Leow Mabel Qi He , Tan Eugene Sern-Ting
Published: July 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of liquid nitrogen cryotherapy using two rounds of 10-second freeze–thaw cycles versus four rounds of 5-second freeze–thaw cycles in the treatment of plantar viral warts.

Methods

A prospective two-group randomized trial was conducted. Subjects in Group A received the regular two rounds of 10-second sustained freeze. Subjects in Group B received four rounds of 5-second sustained freeze. After each treatment, the pain score, pain duration, and occurrence of blistering were recorded. Wart size was measured on the 4th, 8th, and 12th sessions.

Results

Seventy-eight subjects (Group A = 36, Group B = 42) participated in the study. There was no difference in clinical clearance rates, blistering rates, posttreatment pain score, and duration of posttreatment pain between both groups.

Conclusions

There was no difference in efficacy between two rounds of 10-second freeze–thaw cycles and four rounds of 5-second freeze–thaw cycles in cryotherapy for plantar viral warts in our study cohort. Patients who are unable to tolerate long liquid nitrogen spray cycles may be given multiple short cycles instead, without compromise in therapeutic efficacy. There was no difference in pain and blistering for both groups.
Inflammatory and multiple hepatocellular adenoma are associated with a higher BMI
Authors: Bröker Mirelle E.E. , Gaspersz Marcia P. , Klompenhouwer Anne J. , Hansen Bettina E. , Terkivatan Turkan , Taimr Pavel , Dwarkasing Roy , Thomeer Maarten G.J. , de Man Robert A. , IJzermans Jan N.M.
Published: July 2017

Aim

To identify patient and lesion characteristics associated with the occurrence of single or multiple hepatocellular adenoma (HCA).

Patients and methods

Using a tertiary centre database, we retrospectively collected information on patient and lesion characteristics, management and follow-up of all patients with HCA included between 2001 and 2016. Patients were classified into three groups; patients with a single HCA, 2–9 HCA and at least 10 HCA.

Results

A total of 458 patients were diagnosed with HCA, including 121 (26.4%) with single HCA, 235 (51.3%) with 2–9 HCA and 102 (22.3%) with at least 10 HCA. Significant differences in the mean BMI were found, with the highest BMI in patients with more than 10 HCA (P<0.05). The mean BMI was significantly higher in patients with inflammatory HCA compared with steatotic HCA (31 vs. 26, respectively, P<0.05). Steatotic HCA were more often single lesions (22/55, 40%), whereas patients with inflammatory HCA were often diagnosed with multiple lesions (122/166, 73%).

Conclusion

Our series show a significantly higher BMI and frequency of inflammatory HCA in patients with multiple HCA compared with single HCA.
Effect of a brief motivational intervention in reducing alcohol consumption in the emergency department: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Diaz Gomez Cristina , Ngantcha Marcus , Le Garjean Nathalie , Brouard Nadine , Lasbleiz Muriel , Perennes Mathieu , Kerdiles François J. , Le Lan Caroline , Moirand Romain , Bellou Abdelouahab
Published: July 2017

Background

Introduction to alcohol consumption early in life increases the risk of alcohol dependency and hence motivational interventions are needed in young patients visiting the emergency department (ED).

Aim

This study aims to investigate the efficacy of a brief motivational intervention in reducing alcohol consumption among young ED patients.

Patients and methods

This was a blind randomized controlled trial with follow-up at 3 months. Patients were stratified on the basis of age and blood alcohol level of 0.5 g/l or more. A total of 263 patients aged 16–24 were randomized, with 132 patients in the brief motivational intervention group and 131 in the control group, with data collection at 3 months. From September 2011 to July 2012, a psychologist performed the brief motivational intervention 5 days after the patients’ discharge. A phone call was made at 1 and 2 months. The control group received a self-assessment leaflet. The reduction in consumption was determined on the basis of the number of drinks consumed in the last week prior to the survey.

Results

The mean reduction between number of drinks at baseline and number of drinks at 3 months in the control group was 0.3 and that in the intervention group was 0.9. This reduction in alcohol use in the brief motivational intervention group was not significant. The study did not show an association between brief motivational intervention and repeated drunkenness [relative risk (RR): 0.99, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79–1.24], alcohol consumption at least once a month (RR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.31–2.10) and alcohol consumption at least 10 times during the month (RR: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.96–1.26).

Conclusion

We did not observe a significant decrease in alcohol consumption among the youth. Further studies are needed to confirm the positive impact of a brief motivational intervention in the ED.
Safe discharge and outpatient investigation of ureteric colic: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Stewart Michael
Published: July 2017

Background

Computed tomography of the kidneys, ureters and bladder is the recommended imaging modality for suspected urolithiasis. Early scanning is advised in guidelines, but there is limited published evidence to support this recommendation.

Patients and methods

In a retrospective study, we reviewed patients managed according to a local guideline. Patients without high-risk features were either imaged during their initial visit (if in the daytime) or discharged for outpatient scans. Complications, unplanned returns, final diagnosis, and intervention rates were compared between groups.

Results

Fifty-four patients were scanned during their initial visit and 151 were scanned as an outpatient at a median interval of 10 days. Unplanned return rates were lower in those scanned as outpatients (7.3 vs. 24.1%), with no significant difference in complications (2.0 vs. 3.7%; none leading to permanent harm). Those scanned as outpatients were less likely to have a stone proven by imaging (39.7 vs. 64.8%), but did not have a significantly higher rate of proven alternative diagnosis (9.3 vs. 13.0%).

Conclusion

There is no evidence in this cohort that discharging patients for outpatient imaging is associated with poorer outcomes, provided that an appropriate clinical risk assessment is carried out.
The role of monogenic disease in children with very early onset inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Kelsen Judith R. , Baldassano Robert N.
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a multifactorial disease caused by dysregulated immune responses to commensal or pathogenic intestinal microbes, resulting in chronic intestinal inflammation. Patients diagnosed with IBD occurring before the age of 5 are a unique population, known as very early onset (VEO)-IBD and can be phenotypically and genetically distinct from older-onset IBD. We aim to review the clinical presentation of children with VEO-IBD and recent discoveries that point to genomic drivers of disease that may impact our therapeutic decisions.

Recent findings

VEO-IBD is increasing in incidence and is associated with more severe disease, aggressive progression and poor response to most conventional therapies. This article will review the advances in sequencing technology that have led to identification of novel gene variants associated with disease and potentially new targeted therapeutic options.

Children with VEO-IBD may present with a different phenotype and more severe disease than older children and adults. Identification of the causal gene or pathways, these children may allow for true precision medicine with targeted therapy and improved disease course.
Intravenous Iron Sucrose for Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Stein Ronen E. , Plantz Kristen , Maxwell Elizabeth C. , Mamula Petar , Baldassano Robert N.
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common complication of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet the effectiveness of oral iron supplementation is limited. Intravenous iron sucrose is an effective and safe alternative treatment for IDA in adults with IBD, but its role in the treatment of IDA in pediatric IBD is unclear. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the use of iron sucrose in pediatric IBD subjects with IDA and determine the clinical response as measured by improvement in hemoglobin concentration. The secondary aim was to describe adverse events associated with iron sucrose use in this cohort.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed of all pediatric patients with IBD receiving iron sucrose infusions for IDA at a single tertiary care center between 2011 and 2015.

Results:

Seventy‐two subjects (53 with Crohn disease, 11 with ulcerative colitis, and 8 with IBD‐unclassified) received a total of 273 iron sucrose infusions. Forty‐three subjects qualified for the efficacy analysis. There was a significant increase in hemoglobin over the treatment course, with mean (±SD) hemoglobin increasing from 9.6 ± 1.2 g/dL at baseline to 12.1 ± 1.3 g/dL after iron sucrose treatment (P < 0.001). Eighteen adverse events were reported in 13 subjects (18.1% of subjects and 6.6% of infusions). No anaphylaxis reactions occurred and none of the adverse events were, however, life‐threatening or required hospitalization.

Conclusions:

Intravenous iron sucrose is a safe and potentially efficacious treatment choice for IDA in pediatric IBD.
The Microbiome in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Trauma-Exposed Controls: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hemmings Sian M.J. , Malan-Müller Stefanie , van den Heuvel Leigh L. , Demmitt Brittany A. , Stanislawski Maggie A. , Smith David G. , Bohr Adam D. , Stamper Christopher E. , Hyde Embriette R. , Morton James T. , Marotz Clarisse A. , Siebler Philip H. , Braspenning Maarten , Van Criekinge Wim , Hoisington Andrew J. , Brenner Lisa A. , Postolache Teodor T. , McQueen Matthew B. , Krauter Kenneth S. , Knight Rob , Seedat Soraya , Lowry Christopher A.
Published: July 2017

Objective

Inadequate immunoregulation and elevated inflammation may be risk factors for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and microbial inputs are important determinants of immunoregulation; however, the association between the gut microbiota and PTSD is unknown. This study investigated the gut microbiome in a South African sample of PTSD-affected individuals and trauma-exposed (TE) controls to identify potential differences in microbial diversity or microbial community structure.

Methods

The Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 was used to diagnose PTSD according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition criteria. Microbial DNA was extracted from stool samples obtained from 18 individuals with PTSD and 12 TE control participants. Bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene V3/V4 amplicons were generated and sequenced. Microbial community structure, α-diversity, and β-diversity were analyzed; random forest analysis was used to identify associations between bacterial taxa and PTSD.

Results

There were no differences between PTSD and TE control groups in α- or β-diversity measures (e.g., α-diversity: Shannon index, t = 0.386, p = .70; β-diversity, on the basis of analysis of similarities: Bray-Curtis test statistic = –0.033, p = .70); however, random forest analysis highlighted three phyla as important to distinguish PTSD status: Actinobacteria, Lentisphaerae, and Verrucomicrobia. Decreased total abundance of these taxa was associated with higher Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale scores (r = –0.387, p = .035).

Conclusions

In this exploratory study, measures of overall microbial diversity were similar among individuals with PTSD and TE controls; however, decreased total abundance of Actinobacteria, Lentisphaerae, and Verrucomicrobia was associated with PTSD status.
Perceived Stress, Depressive Symptoms, and Oxidative DNA Damage
Authors: Shimanoe Chisato , Hara Megumi , Nishida Yuichiro , Nanri Hinako , Horita Mikako , Yamada Yosuke , Li Yun-Shan , Kasai Hiroshi , Kawai Kazuaki , Higaki Yasuki , Tanaka Keitaro
Published: July 2017

Objective

Psychosocial stress may influence the risk of disease through its association with oxidative DNA damage. We examined whether perceived stress and depressive symptoms were associated with urinary excretion of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), with mutual interaction on 8-OHdG.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 6517 individuals aged 45 to 74 years who participated, between 2010 and 2012, in a follow-up survey of an ongoing cohort study. Perceived stress during the past year was measured using a self-report questionnaire. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale. Urinary 8-OHdG concentrations were measured using a column switching high-pressure liquid chromatography system coupled to an electrochemical detector.

Results

Higher perceived stress was significantly associated with higher 8-OHdG (2.1% increase per one-category increase of stress; p
trend = .025), even after adjusting for sex, age, supplement use, psychosocial factors, psychotropic medication use, smoking, and body mass index. This association was modestly attenuated after further adjustment for physical activity, suggesting possible mediation or confounding by this factor. Depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with 8-OHdG. No significant interaction was detected between perceived stress and depressive symptoms on 8-OHdG.

Conclusions

In a general Japanese population, we found a weak positive association between perceived stress and urinary excretion of 8-OHdG, whereas no association was observed between depressive symptoms and 8-OHdG. Further studies are needed to examine whether the association between perceived stress and 8-OHdG is modified by depressive symptoms.
Three- versus four-factor prothrombin complex concentrates for “factor-based” resuscitation in a porcine hemorrhagic shock model
Authors: Moe Donald Michael , Lallemand Michael Scott , McClellan John Mason , Smith Joshua Porter , Marko Shannon T. , Eckert Matthew J. , Martin Matthew J.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after severe injury. Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) treat inborn coagulation disorders and reverse oral anticoagulants, but are proposed for use in “factor-based” resuscitation strategies. Few studies exist for this indication in acidosis, or that compare 3-factor PCC (3PCC) versus 4-factor PCC (4PCC) products. We aimed to assess and compare their safety and efficacy in a porcine model of severe hemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy.

METHODS

Twenty-five adult Yorkshire swine underwent 35% volume hemorrhage, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and protocolized crystalloid resuscitation. Seventeen animals were randomized at 4 hours after model creation to receive a 45-IU/kg dose of either 3PCC or 4PCC. An additional eight animals received autologous plasma transfusion before 4PCC to better characterize response to PCC. Individual factor levels were drawn at 4 hours and 6 hours.

RESULTS

The model created significant acidosis with mean pH of 7.21 and lactate of 9.6 mmol/L. After PCC, 66.7% of 3PCC animals and 25% of 4PCC animals (regardless of plasma administration) developed consumptive coagulopathy. The animals that developed consumptive coagulopathy had manifested the “lethal triad” with lower temperatures (36.3°C vs. 37.8°C), increased acidosis (pH, 7.14 vs. 7.27; base excess, −12.1 vs. –6.5 mEq/L), and worse coagulopathy (prothrombin time, 17.1 vs. 14.6 seconds; fibrinogen, 87.9 vs. 124.1 mg/dL) (all p < 0.05). In the absence of a consumptive coagulopathy, 3PCC and 4PCC improved individual clotting factors with transient improvement of prothrombin time, but there was significant depletion of fibrinogen and platelets with no lasting improvement of coagulopathy.

CONCLUSION

PCC failed to correct coagulopathy and was associated with fibrinogen and platelet depletion. Of greater concern, PCC administration resulted in consumptive coagulopathy in the more severely ill animals. The incidence of consumptive coagulopathy was markedly increased with 3PCC versus 4PCC, and these products should be used with caution in this setting.
Parathyroid hormone as a marker for hypoperfusion in trauma: A prospective observational study
Authors: Fligor Scott C. , Love Katie M. , Collier Bryan R. , Lollar Daniel I. , Hamill Mark E. , Benson Andrew D. , Bradburn Eric H.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Hyperparathyroidism is common in critical illness. Intact parathyroid hormone has a half-life of 3 minutes to 5 minutes due to rapid clearance by the liver, kidneys, and bone. In hemorrhagic shock, decreased clearance may occur, thus making parathyroid hormone a potential early marker for hypoperfusion. We hypothesized that early hyperparathyroidism predicts mortality and transfusion in trauma patients.

METHODS

A prospective observational study was performed at a Level I trauma center in consecutive adult patients receiving the highest level of trauma team activation. Parathyroid hormone and lactic acid were added to the standard laboratory panel drawn in the trauma bay on arrival, before the administration of any blood products. The primary outcomes assessed were transfusion in 24 hours and mortality.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients were included. Median age was 47 years, 82.6% were men, 15.2% suffered penetrating trauma, and 21.7% died. Patients who were transfused in the first 24 hours (n = 17) had higher parathyroid hormone (182.0 pg/mL vs. 73.5 pg/mL, p < 0.001) and lactic acid (4.6 pg/mL vs. 2.3 pg/mL, p = 0.001). Patients who did not survive to discharge (n = 10) also had higher parathyroid hormone (180.3 pg/mL vs. 79.3 pg/mL, p < 0.001) and lactic acid (5.5 mmol/L vs. 2.5 mmol/L, p = 0.001). For predicting transfusion in the first 24 hours, parathyroid hormone has an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.876 compared with 0.793 for lactic acid and 0.734 for systolic blood pressure. Parathyroid hormone has an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.875 for predicting mortality compared with 0.835 for lactic acid and 0.732 for systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSION

Hyperparathyroidism on hospital arrival in trauma patients predicts mortality and transfusion in the first 24 hours. Further research should investigate the value of parathyroid hormone as an endpoint for resuscitation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic, level II.
Effects of hypoxia and ocean acidification on the upper thermal niche boundaries of coral reef fishes
Authors: Ern Rasmus , Johansen Jacob L. , Rummer Jodie L. , Esbaugh Andrew J.
Published: July 2017

Rising ocean temperatures are predicted to cause a poleward shift in the distribution of marine fishes occupying the extent of latitudes tolerable within their thermal range boundaries. A prevailing theory suggests that the upper thermal limits of fishes are constrained by hypoxia and ocean acidification. However, some eurythermal fish species do not conform to this theory, and maintain their upper thermal limits in hypoxia. Here we determine if the same is true for stenothermal species. In three coral reef fish species we tested the effect of hypoxia on upper thermal limits, measured as critical thermal maximum (CT
max
). In one of these species we also quantified the effect of hypoxia on oxygen supply capacity, measured as aerobic scope (AS). In this species we also tested the effect of elevated CO
2
(simulated ocean acidification) on the hypoxia sensitivity of CT
max
. We found that CT
max
was unaffected by progressive hypoxia down to approximately 35 mmHg, despite a substantial hypoxia-induced reduction in AS. Below approximately 35 mmHg, CT
max
declined sharply with water oxygen tension (
P
w
O
2
). Furthermore, the hypoxia sensitivity of CT
max
was unaffected by elevated CO
2
. Our findings show that moderate hypoxia and ocean acidification do not constrain the upper thermal limits of these tropical, stenothermal fishes.
RNA sequencing reveals a complete but an unconventional type of dosage compensation in the domestic silkworm
Bombyx mori
Authors: Gopinath Gajula , Srikeerthana Kuchi , Tomar Archana , Sekhar Srikakolapu M. Ch. , Arunkumar Kallare P.
Published: July 2017

Sex chromosomal dose difference between sexes is often normalized by a gene regulatory mechanism called dosage compensation (DC). Studies indicate that DC mechanisms are generally effective in XY rather than ZW systems. However, DC studies in lepidopterans (ZW system) gave bewildering results. In
Manduca sexta
, DC was complete and in
Plodia interpunctella
, it was incomplete. In
Heliconius
species, dosage was found to be partly incomplete. In domesticated silkmoth
Bombyx mori
, DC studies have yielded contradictory results thus far, showing incomplete DC based on microarray data and a possible existence of DC based on recent reanalysis of same data. In this study, analysis of
B. mori
sexed embryos (78, 96 and 120 h) and larval heads using RNA sequencing suggest an onset of DC at 120 h. The average Z-linked expression is substantially less than autosomes, and the male-biased Z-linked expression observed at initial stages (78 and 96 h) gets almost compensated at 120 h embryonic stage and perfectly compensated in heads. Based on these findings, we suggest a complete but an unconventional type of DC, which may be achieved by reduced Z-linked expression in males (ZZ). To our knowledge, this is the first next-generation sequencing report showing DC in
B. mori
, clarifying the previous contradictions.
Modelling and simulation of a thermally induced optical transparency in a dual micro-ring resonator
Authors: Lydiate Joseph
Published: July 2017

This paper introduces the simulation and modelling of a novel dual micro-ring resonator. The geometric configuration of the resonators, and the implementation of a simulated broadband excitation source, results in the realization of optical transparencies in the combined through port output spectrum. The 130 nm silicon on insulator rib fabrication process is adopted for the simulation of the dual-ring configuration. Two titanium nitride heaters are positioned over the coupling regions of the resonators, which can be operated independently, to control the spectral position of the optical transparency. A third heater, centrally located above the dual resonator rings, can be used to red shift the entire spectrum to a required reference resonant wavelength. The free spectral range with no heater currents applied is 4.29 nm. For a simulated heater current of 7 mA (55.7 mW heater power) applied to one of the through coupling heaters, the optical transparency exhibits a red shift of 1.79 nm from the reference resonant wavelength. The ring-to-ring separation of approximately 900 nm means that it can be assumed that there is a zero ring-to-ring coupling field in this model. This novel arrangement has potential applications as a gas mass airflow sensor or a gas species identification sensor.
Modulation frequency as a cue for auditory speed perception
Authors: Senna Irene , Parise Cesare V. , Ernst Marc O.
Published: July 2017

Unlike vision, the mechanisms underlying auditory motion perception are poorly understood. Here we describe an auditory motion illusion revealing a novel cue to auditory speed perception: the temporal frequency of amplitude modulation (AM-frequency), typical for rattling sounds. Naturally, corrugated objects sliding across each other generate rattling sounds whose AM-frequency tends to directly correlate with speed. We found that AM-frequency modulates auditory speed perception in a highly systematic fashion: moving sounds with higher AM-frequency are perceived as moving faster than sounds with lower AM-frequency. Even more interestingly, sounds with higher AM-frequency also induce stronger motion aftereffects. This reveals the existence of specialized neural mechanisms for auditory motion perception, which are sensitive to AM-frequency. Thus, in spatial hearing, the brain successfully capitalizes on the AM-frequency of rattling sounds to estimate the speed of moving objects. This tightly parallels previous findings in motion vision, where spatio-temporal frequency of moving displays systematically affects both speed perception and the magnitude of the motion aftereffects. Such an analogy with vision suggests that motion detection may rely on canonical computations, with similar neural mechanisms shared across the different modalities.
Nutritional state reveals complex consequences of risk in a wild predator–prey community
Authors: DeWitt Philip D. , Schuler Matthew S. , Visscher Darcy R. , Thiel Richard P.
Published: July 2017

Animal populations are regulated by the combined effects of top-down, bottom-up and abiotic processes. Ecologists have struggled to isolate these mechanisms because their effects on prey behaviour, nutrition, security and fitness are often interrelated. We monitored how forage, non-consumptive effects (NCEs), consumptive predation and climatic conditions influenced the demography and nutritional state of a wild prey population during predator recolonization. Combined measures of nutrition, survival and population growth reveal that predators imposed strong effects on the prey population through interacting non-consumptive and consumptive effects, and forage mechanisms. Predation was directly responsible for adult survival, while declining recruitment was attributed to predation risk-sensitive foraging, manifested in poor female nutrition and juvenile recruitment. Substituting nutritional state into the recruitment model through a shared term reveals that predation risk-sensitive foraging was nearly twice as influential as summer forage conditions. Our findings provide a novel, mechanistic insight into the complex means by which predators and forage conditions affect prey populations, and point to a need for more ecological studies that integrate behaviour, nutrition and demography. This line of inquiry can provide further insight into how NCEs interactively contribute to the dynamics of terrestrial prey populations; particularly, how predation risk-sensitive foraging has the potential to stabilize predator–prey coexistence.
The maternal genetic history of the Angolan Namib Desert: a key region for understanding the peopling of southern Africa
Authors: Oliveira Sandra , Fehn Anne-Maria , Aço Teresa , Lages Fernanda , Gayá-Vidal Magdalena , Pakendorf Brigitte , Stoneking Mark , Rocha Jorge
Published: July 2017

Southern Angola is a poorly studied region, inhabited by populations that have been associated with different migratory movements into southern Africa. Besides the long-standing presence of indigenous Kx’a-speaking foragers and the more recent arrival of Bantu-speaking pastoralists, ethnographic and linguistic studies have suggested that other pre-Bantu communities were also present in the Namib desert, including peripatetic groups like the Kwepe (formerly Kwadi speakers), Twa and Kwisi. Here we evaluate previous peopling hypotheses by analyzing the relationships between seven groups from the Namib desert (Kuvale, Himba, Tjimba, Kwisi, Twa, Kwepe) and Kunene Province (!Xun), based on newly collected linguistic data and 295 complete mtDNA genomes. We found that: i) all groups from the Namib desert have genealogically-consistent matriclanic systems that had a strong impact on their maternal genetic structure by enhancing genetic drift and population differentiation; ii) the dominant pastoral groups represented by the Kuvale and Himba were part of a Bantu proto-population that also included the ancestors of present-day Damara and Herero peoples from Namibia; iii) Tjimba are closely related to the Himba; iv) the Kwepe, Twa and Kwisi have a divergent Bantu-related mtDNA profile and probably stem from a single population that does not show clear signs of being a pre-Bantu indigenous group. Taken together, our results suggest that the maternal genetic structure of the different groups from the Namib desert is largely derived from endogamous Bantu peoples, and that their social stratification and different subsistence patterns are not indicative of remnant groups, but reflect Bantu-internal variation and ethnogenesis.
Synthetically EngineeredMedeaGene Drive System in the Worldwide Crop Pest,D. suzukii
Authors: Buchman Anna , Marshall John M. , Ostrovski Dennis , Yang Ting , Akbari Omar S.
Published: July 2017

Synthetic gene drive systems possess enormous potential to replace, alter, or suppress wild populations of significant disease vectors and crop pests; however, their utility in diverse populations remains to be demonstrated. Here, we report the creation of the first-ever syntheticMedeagene drive element in a major worldwide crop pest,D. suzukii. We demonstrate that this drive element, based on an engineered maternal “toxin” coupled with a linked embryonic “antidote,” is capable of biasing Mendelian inheritance rates with up to 100% efficiency. However, we find that drive resistance, resulting from naturally occurring genetic variation and associated fitness costs, can hinder the spread of such an element. Despite this, our results suggest that this element could maintain itself at high frequencies in a wild population, and spread to fixation, if either its fitness costs or toxin resistance were reduced, providing a clear path forward for developing future such systems.
GPS2 regulates mitochondria biogenesis via mitochondrial retrograde signaling and chromatin remodeling of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes
Authors: Cardamone Maria Dafne , Tanasa Bogdan , Cederquist Carly , Huang Jiawen , Mahdaviani Kiana , Li Wembo , Rosenfeld Michael G. , Liesa Marc , Perissi Valentina
Published: July 2017

As most of the mitochondrial proteome is encoded in the nucleus, mitochondrial functions critically depend on nuclear gene expression and bidirectional mito-nuclear communication. However, mitochondria-to-nucleus communication pathways are incompletely understood. Here, we identify G-Protein Pathway Suppressor 2 (GPS2) as a mediator of mitochondrial retrograde signaling and a key transcriptional activator of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes in mammals. GPS2 regulated translocation from mitochondria to nucleus is essential for the transcriptional activation of the nuclear stress response to mitochondrial depolarization and for supporting basal mitochondrial biogenesis in differentiating adipocytes and in brown adipose tissue from mice. In the nucleus, GPS2 recruitment to target gene promoters regulates histone H3K9 demethylation and RNA Polymerase II (POL2) activation through inhibition of Ubc13-mediated ubiquitination. Together, these findings reveal an unexpected layer of regulation of mitochondrial gene transcription as they uncover a novel mitochondria-nuclear communication pathway.
Neat1 is a p53-inducible lincRNA essential for transformation suppression
Authors: Mello Stephano S. , Sinow Carolyn , Raj Nitin , Mazur Pawel K. , Bieging-Rolett Kathryn , Broz Daniela Kenzelmann , Imam Jamie F. Conklin , Vogel Hannes , Wood Laura D. , Sage Julien , Hirose Tetsuro , Nakagawa Shinichi , Rinn John , Attardi Laura D.
Published: July 2017

The p53 gene is mutated in over half of all cancers, reflecting its critical role as a tumor suppressor. Although p53 is a transcriptional activator that induces myriad target genes, those p53-inducible genes most critical for tumor suppression remain elusive. Here, we leveraged p53 ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation [ChIP] combined with high-throughput sequencing) and RNA-seq (RNA sequencing) data sets to identify new p53 target genes, focusing on the noncoding genome. We identify Neat1, a noncoding RNA (ncRNA) constituent of paraspeckles, as a p53 target gene broadly induced by mouse and human p53 in different cell types and by diverse stress signals. Using fibroblasts derived from Neat1−/− mice, we examined the functional role of Neat1 in the p53 pathway. We found that Neat1 is dispensable for cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in response to genotoxic stress. In sharp contrast, Neat1 plays a crucial role in suppressing transformation in response to oncogenic signals. Neat1 deficiency enhances transformation in oncogene-expressing fibroblasts and promotes the development of premalignant pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias (PanINs) and cystic lesions in KrasG12D-expressing mice. Neat1 loss provokes global changes in gene expression, suggesting a mechanism by which its deficiency promotes neoplasia. Collectively, these findings identify Neat1 as a p53-regulated large intergenic ncRNA (lincRNA) with a key role in suppressing transformation and cancer initiation, providing fundamental new insight into p53-mediated tumor suppression.
3-Chloro-1-ethyl-6-nitro-1H-indazole
Authors: Mohamed Abdelahi Mohamed Mokhtar , Sebbar Nada Kheira , Jasinski Jerry P. , Kaur Manpreet , Essassi El Mokhtar , Benchidmi Mohammed
Published: July 2017

In the title compound, C9H8ClN3O2, the terminal C atom of the ethyl group deviates from the indazole ring (r.m.s. deviation = 0.008 Å) by 1.588 (3) Å. The dihedral angle between the ring system and the attached nitro group is 2.8 (3)°. In the crystal, weak C—H...O interactions link the molecules into zigzag chains propagating along [001]. In addition, weak π–π stacking interactions [centroid–centroid separations = 3.6809 (10) and 3.7393 (11) Å] help to consolidate the packing.
2-(4-Chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one
Authors: Zingales Sarah , Padgett Clifford
Published: July 2017

Flavones are a subclass of flavonoids, secondary metabolites of plants which contain the 2-phenylbenzopyran pharmacophore. They are of interest as they display a wide variety of biological activities, such as anticancer and antioxidant. Recently, there has been an interest in coordinating flavones to various transition metals for anticancer activity. Our work in this area led to the synthesis and crystallization of flavones as intermediates. Herein, we report the first crystal structure of 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one, C15H9ClO3, a well studied compound.
Value appropriation in Brazilian cattle industry
Authors: de Oliveira Gustavo Magalhães , de Queiroz Caleman Silvia Morales , Cunha Christiano França da , Puperi Morenise
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influencing factors on cattle breeders’ payment system choices using cross-sectional data collected in the Brazilian states of Mato Grosso do Sul and Rio Grande do Sul. The investigation aims to analyze the problem of value appropriation comparing the payment based on carcass index with live weight mode under the perspective of “bovine for slaughtering” as a multidimensional product with various attributes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a generalized order logistic regression model in a survey with 69 cattle breeders’ interview to conduct the empirical analysis.

Findings

The empirical results show that measurement difficulties and collective actions influence farmers’ choice to a less efficient payment system in quality terms and value appropriation problems, while the trust level in the slaughterhouse pushes to a more efficient system. Furthermore, trust was presented as more important than technological aspects and long-time relationship as well as collective action corroborates to increase bargaining power and to solve conflicts. In sum, trust, measurement and bargaining power brought traditional and alternative solutions to solve conflicts such as well-designed payment indicators, collective actions and transaction costs.

Originality/value

This study used first-hand survey and proxy variables on cattle farmers’ payment system choices. Another contribution is the focus on two regions with two different payment systems in the same institutional environment in a way to suggest mechanisms of private strategies and public policy to reduce opportunistic value appropriation as well as decreasing conflict.
Organizational virtuousness perceptions and task crafting
Authors: Hur Won-Moo , Shin Yuhyung , Rhee Seung-Yoon , Kim Hyosun
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between employees’ perceptions of organizational virtuousness and task crafting, and to test the mediating roles of organizational identification and work engagement in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected questionnaires from 175 Korean flight attendants and conducted structural equation modeling analyses.

Findings

Employees’ perceptions of organizational virtuousness were positively associated with task crafting. While organizational identification was not solely responsible for mediating this relationship, it intervened in the relationship between organizational virtuousness perceptions and task crafting by affecting work engagement.

Research limitations/implications

While this study provides important insights into the roles of organizational virtuousness, organizational identification, and work engagement in promoting task crafting, the use of self-reported, cross-sectional data limits causal inferences between variables.

Practical implications

Based on the present findings, managers can better understand the antecedents and mediating processes affecting employees’ task crafting.

Originality/value

This study adds value to the positive organizational psychology literature by revealing crucial intermediary processes linking organizational virtuousness perceptions and task crafting, thus suggesting reciprocity and social identity-based motivation as potential underlying mechanisms of task crafting.
Effects of different types of feedback of a mobile-assisted learning application and motivation towards mathematics learning on students’ mathematics performance
Authors: Bringula Rex , De Leon Jan Sepli , Rayala Kharl John , Pascual Bernadette Anne , Sendino Kevin
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of four different forms of feedback (such as, complete solution, line-by-line correction, line-by-line hint and correct-incorrect final answer) of a mobile-assisted learning application on linear equations and motivation of students towards mathematics learning on students’ mathematics performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Totally, 285 Grade 7 students (72 students each for the first-three feedback and 69 students for the last feedback) participated in the five-day experiment. A validated instrument was utilized to determine the motivation of students in learning mathematics.

Findings

It was revealed that students solved more problems and spent more time in the line-by-line hint type of feedback. The correct-incorrect final answer group had the most number of incorrect problems solved. It was found that the scores of the students would be different from one another after they utilized the app. Nonetheless, all of them learnt significantly from the app. Five steps of hierarchical regression revealed that all types of feedback were consistent predictors of posttest scores. Thus, the first null hypothesis stating that there is no significant difference between the pretest and posttest scores of the students when categorized by different forms of feedback was rejected. The second null hypothesis stating that the four types of feedback and motivation of students do not influence mathematics performance is partially rejected.

Research limitations/implications

The study can be replicated in a school with a different atmosphere.

Practical implications

The use of the application is highly recommended for students who are beginning to learn linear equations. Teachers can replicate the four types of feedback in an actual classroom setting.

Originality/value

It was confirmed that the four types of feedback can teach the students learn mathematics, regardless of the motivation of the students.
Improving entity linking with ontology alignment for semantic microservices composition
Authors: Salvadori Ivan Luiz , Huf Alexis , Oliveira Bruno C.N. , dos Santos Mello Ronaldo , Siqueira Frank
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a method based on Linked Data and Semantic Web principles for composing microservices through data integration. Two frameworks that provide support for the proposed composition method are also described in this paper: Linkedator, which is responsible for connecting entities managed by microservices, and Alignator, which aligns semantic concepts defined by heterogeneous ontologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method is based on entity linking principles and uses individual matching techniques considering a formal notion of identity. This method imposes two major constraints that must be taken into account by its implementation: architectural constraints and resource design constraints.

Findings

Experiments were performed in a real-world scenario, using public government data. The obtained results show the effectiveness of the proposed method and that, it leverages the independence of development and composability of microservices. Thereby, the data provided by microservices that adopt heterogeneous ontologies can now be linked together.

Research limitations/implications

This work only considers microservices designed as data providers. Microservices designed to execute functionalities in a given application domain are out of the scope of this work.

Originality/value

The proposed composition method exploits the potential data intersection observed in resource-oriented microservice descriptions, providing a navigable view of data provided by a set of interrelated microservices. Furthermore, this study explores the applicability of ontology alignments for composing microservices.
Psychological contract as precursor for turnover and self-employment
Authors: van Stormbroek Rosalie , Blomme Rob
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of psychological contract (PC) fulfilment and violation on turnover intention and self-employment intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 132 Dutch organizationally employed individuals was used to test the effect of PC fulfilment on turnover intention and self-employment intention. Also, mediation effects of violation on the relation between PC fulfilment and turnover intention and its effect on the relation between PC fulfilment and self-employment intention were examined.

Findings

Consistent with existing literature, the results show that lower ratings for PC fulfilment and feelings of violation of this contract can explain intentions to leave. Moreover, the results demonstrate that lower ratings for PC fulfilment are also related to self-employment intentions. This relationship is partly mediated by turnover intentions.

Research limitations/implications

This research measured intention to turnover, thus not the actual turnover. In addition, self-employment was measured by means of a self-designed scale.

Practical implications

Managing the PC is a delicate but crucial process to prevent valuable employees from leaving the organization.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature on PC fulfilment and employee attitude. In addition, little is known about the influence of PC fulfilment on an employee’s intention to pursue self-employment.