bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Host lifespan and the evolution of resistance to multiple parasites
Authors: Donnelly R. , White A. , Boots M.
Published: December 2016

Hosts are typically challenged by multiple parasites, but to date theory on the evolution of resistance has mainly focused on single infections. We develop a series of models that examine the impact of multiple parasites on the evolution of resistance under the assumption that parasites coexist at the host population scale as a consequence of superinfection. In this way, we are able to explicitly examine the impact of ecological dynamics on the evolutionary outcome. We use our models to address a key question of how host lifespan affects investment in resistance to multiple parasites. We show that investment in costly resistance depends on the specificity of the immune response and on whether or not the focal parasite leads to more acute infection than the co‐circulating parasite. A key finding is that investment in resistance always increases as the immune response becomes more general independently of whether it is the focal or the co‐circulating parasite that exploits the host most aggressively. Long‐lived hosts always invest more than short‐lived hosts in both general resistance and resistance that is specific to relatively acute focal parasites. However, for specific resistance to parasites that are less acute than co‐circulating parasites it is the short‐lived hosts that are predicted to invest most. We show that these results apply whatever the mode of defence, that is whether it is through avoidance or through increased recovery, with or without acquired immunity, or through acquired immunity itself. As a whole, our results emphasize the importance of considering multiple parasites in determining optimal immune investment in eco‐evolutionary systems.
Divergence in brain composition during the early stages of ecological specialization in Heliconius butterflies
Authors: Montgomery S. H. , Merrill R. M.
Published: December 2016

During speciation across ecological gradients, diverging populations are exposed to contrasting sensory and spatial information that present new behavioural and perceptive challenges. These challenges may be met by heritable or environmentally induced changes in brain function which mediate behaviour. However, few studies have investigated patterns of neural divergence at the early stages of speciation, inhibiting our understanding of the relative importance of these processes. Here, we provide a novel case study. The incipient species pair, Heliconius erato and H. himera, are parapatric across an environmental and altitudinal gradient. Despite ongoing gene flow, these species have divergent ecological, behavioural and physiological traits. We demonstrate that these taxa also differ significantly in brain composition, in particular in the relative levels of investment in structures that process sensory information. These differences are not explained solely by environmentally‐induced plasticity, but include heritable, nonallometric shifts in brain structure. We suggest these differences reflect divergence to meet the demands of contrasting sensory ecologies. This conclusion would support the hypothesis that the evolution of brain structure and function play an important role in facilitating the emergence of ecologically distinct species.
An outbreak of Shewanella putrefaciens group in wild eels Anguilla anguilla L. favoured by hypoxic aquatic environments
Authors: Esteve C , Merchán R , Alcaide E
Published: December 2016

Microbiological analyses were conducted on wild eels from the L′Albufera Lake (Spain). A total of 174 individuals were collected in two surveys (i.e. year 2008 and autumn–winter 2014) among those caught by local fishermen into the lagoon. The prevalence of Shewanella putrefaciens group was 1.7% in 2008 and rose above 32% in 2014. It was due to an outbreak of shewanellosis that presented a morbidity rate of 64%. S. putrefaciens group strains were isolated as pure cultures from the sick eels that showed white ulcers surrounded by a reddish inflammation, damage of the mouth, extensive skin discoloration, exophthalmia, ascites and bad odour. The S. putrefaciens group was recovered from freshwater samples taken at the L′Albufera system, along autumn–winter 2015. Its counts significantly increased in freshwater parallel to hypoxia and temperature rising. Shewanellae strains were identified as S. putrefaciens and S. xiamenensis by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. These isolates recovered from sick eels or freshwater were virulent for European eel by IP challenge (LD50 106 CFU g−1 body weight). They also caused 30–38% cumulative mortality, in European eels challenged by a 2‐h bath (107 CFU mL−1). These results suggest that shewanellosis could be transmitted through water highlighting the fact that hypoxic conditions increase this bacterium levels in water.
What Moves Investment Growth?
Authors: CHEN LONG , DA ZHI , LARRAIN BORJA
Published: December 2016

We use accounting identities to decompose unexpected changes in investment growth into surprises to current cash‐flow growth and stock returns, and revisions of expectations about future cash‐flow growth and future discount rates. Using a vector autoregressive model we find that current cash‐flow surprises account for the largest element of the variance decomposition. Investment growth and current cash‐flow surprises are negatively correlated with news about future cash‐flow growth, which can be expected from persistent productivity shocks and decreasing returns to scale. We find little evidence of a discount rate channel for investment since return terms are small and have unintuitive signs.
Macro Credit Policy and the Financial Accelerator
Authors: CARLSTROM CHARLES T. , FUERST TIMOTHY S.
Published: December 2016

This paper studies macro credit policies within the financial accelerator model of Bernanke, Gertler, and Gilchrist (1999). The focus is on borrower‐based restrictions on lending such as loan‐to‐value (LTV) ratios. We find that the efficacy of cyclical taxes on LTV ratios depends upon the nature of the underlying loan contract. If the loan contract contains equity‐like features such as indexation to aggregate conditions, then there is little role for cyclical taxation. But if the loan contract is not indexed to aggregate conditions, then there are substantial gains to procyclical taxes on LTV ratios.
Local Trends in Price‐to‐Dividend Ratios—Assessment, Predictive Value, and Determinants
Authors: HERWARTZ HELMUT , RENGEL MALTE , XU FANG
Published: December 2016

Persistent variations of the log price‐to‐dividend ratio (PD) and their economic determinants have attracted a lively discussion in the literature. We suggest a gradually time‐varying state process to govern the persistence of the PD. The adopted state‐space approach offers favorable model diagnostics and finds particular support in out‐of‐sample stock return prediction. We show that this slowly evolving mean process is jointly shaped by the consumption risk, the demographic structure, and the proportion of firms with traditional dividend payout policy during the past 60 years. In particular, the volatility of consumption growth plays the dominant role.
Hereditary gelsolin amyloidosis (HGA): a neglected cause of bilateral progressive or recurrent facial palsy
Authors: Sagnelli Anna , Piscosquito Giuseppe , Di Bella Daniela , Fadda Laura , Melzi Lisa , Morico Antonio , Ciano Claudia , Taroni Franco , Facchetti Dante , Salsano Ettore , Pareyson Davide
Published: December 2016

We report the first Italian family affected by hereditary gelsolin amyloidosis (HGA), a rare autosomal dominant disease characterized by adult‐onset slowly progressive cranial neuropathy, lattice corneal dystrophy, and cutis laxa. The index case was a 39‐year‐old male with a 9‐year history of progressive bilateral facial nerve palsy. His mother had two episodes of acute facial palsy, and his maternal aunt and grandfather were also affected. Electrophysiological studies confirmed bilateral facial nerve involvement, without signs of peripheral polyneuropathy, and ophthalmological examination showed bilateral lattice corneal dystrophy, in both the index case and his mother. Gelsolin‐gene sequencing revealed the heterozygous c.640G>A mutation (p.Asp187Asn) in the proband, his mother and aunt and also in three apparently asymptomatic relatives. The majority of HGA patients come from Finland, although several cases have been reported from other countries. HGA should be considered in the differential diagnosis of progressive or recurrent bilateral facial neuropathy.
Urinary incontinence and its management in patients aged 65 and older in orthopaedic care – what nursing and rehabilitation staff know and do
Authors: Hälleberg Nyman Maria , Forsman Henrietta , Ostaszkiewicz Joan , Hommel Ami , Eldh Ann Catrine
Published: December 2016

Aims and objectives

To describe what nursing and rehabilitation staff know and do with regard to urinary incontinence and risk of urinary incontinence in patients 65 years or older undergoing hip surgery.

Background

Urinary incontinence is a common but often neglected issue for older people. Despite the existence of evidence‐based guidelines on how to assess, manage and prevent urinary incontinence, there are indications that these guidelines are not applied in hospital care.

Design

A qualitative study with descriptive design was conducted in two orthopaedic units.

Methods

Forty‐six interviews and 36 observations of care were conducted from January–October 2014 and analysed with qualitative content analysis.

Results

Enrolled nurses performed most of the care related to bladder function, with focus on urinary catheterisation and preventing urinary tract infection and urinary retention. Registered nurses’ role in urinary matters mainly comprised documentation, while the rehabilitation staff focused on making it possible for the patient to be independent in toileting. The nursing staff considered urinary incontinence a common condition for older people and that it was convenient for the patients to have an indwelling catheter or incontinence pad/pant, although they acknowledged some of the risks associated with these procedures.

Conclusions

Urinary incontinence is not a priority in orthopaedic care, and urinary incontinence guidelines are not applied. Further, attitudes and actions are mainly characterised by a lack of urinary incontinence knowledge and the nursing and rehabilitation staff do not take a team approach to preventing and managing urinary incontinence.

Relevance to clinical practice

An increased focus on knowledge on urinary incontinence and evidence‐based guidelines is needed. To secure evidence‐based practice, the team of nursing and rehabilitation staff and managers must be aligned and work actively together, also including the patient in the team.
Integrated analysis reveals candidate mRNA and their potential roles in uterine leiomyomas
Authors: Xia Liping , Liu Yan , Fu Yan , Dongye Shengyi , Wang Dewei
Published: December 2016

Aim

Uterine leiomyomas (UL) are the most common pelvic tumors, and the etiology and pathophysiology are not well understood. We aimed to elucidate the genes responsible for UL development.

Methods

Integrated analyses of four datasets of mRNA profiling for UL were performed. Functional annotation of differentially expressed genes (DEG) was used to systematically characterize the global expression profiles. The UL‐specific protein–protein interaction network was constructed.

Results

Integrated analysis led to the discovery of 2167 DEG (1042 upregulated and 1125 downregulated). The aberrant expression of NAV2, KIF5C, DCX, CAPN6, COL4A2, ALDH1A1, and DPT may play important roles in UL tumorigenesis. In addition, the dysregulation of MEST, LGALS3, and TLR3 may be involved in the progression of UL by a common mechanism. Functional annotation showed that extracellular matrix receptor interaction may be more active and cause the extracellular matrix abnormally formed in UL. Moreover, focal adhesion and cell adhesion molecules may play roles in the development of UL. Furthermore, chemokine signaling pathway and cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction were most probably involved in the development of UL.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study observed that a set of aberrantly expressed genes and the related biochemical pathways may lead to transformation of normal myometrium in pathological focuses.
Gestational choriocarcinoma: Rare spinal metastasis during a viable pregnancy
Authors: Ishiguro Tatsuya , Serikawa Takehiro , Yahata Tetsuro , Enomoto Takayuki
Published: December 2016

Gestational choriocarcinoma metastasizing to the bones, especially to the spine, is extremely rare. In addition, there are few reports of choriocarcinoma during a viable pregnancy. We report a case of gestational choriocarcinoma that metastasized to the lumbar spine during a viable pregnancy in a 41‐year‐old woman with a history of a missed abortion. A heterogeneous cervical mass was detected at gestational week 16. Subsequently, a metastatic lesion appeared during the pregnancy, and fetal demise in utero occurred. Pathological examination revealed that the cervical tumor and metastatic spinal tumor were choriocarcinoma. The patient's condition deteriorated rapidly and we were unable to save her life, despite multidrug chemotherapy. Surgical tumor resection and pregnancy might involve a substantial risk of choriocarcinoma metastasis. It is important to obtain an early diagnosis for this life‐threatening disease in order to facilitate appropriate treatment, despite pregnancy.
Echocardiography findings in a case with Ballantyne syndrome
Authors: Suzuki Yutaro , Yamamura Mie , Kikuchi Keisuke , Hattori Rifumi , Umazume Takeshi , Minakami Hisanori
Published: December 2016

Marked fluid retention occurs in Ballantyne syndrome, but few reports are available on changes in cardiac morphology in this syndrome. A woman with generalized edema, dyspnea, fetal hydrops (skin edema and ascites), thickened placenta, and elevated plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide level (344 pg/mL) was admitted to our hospital at gestational week (GW) 20+3. Blood pressure remained within the normal range. However, acute increases in left atrial volume index, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and hyperdynamic left ventricular function (as evidenced by increased left ventricular ejection fraction to 74% with cardiac index of 5.1 L/min/m2) occurred preceding fetal death at GW 21+4 in the presence of increased inferior vena cava diameter (23 mm) and relatively low systemic vascular resistance of 752 dyn·s/cm5. These findings suggested life‐threatening heart failure and required cesarean delivery at GW 21+5 resulting in complete recovery. The placenta suggested cytomegalovirus infection.
Retrospective study of tadalafil for fetal growth restriction: Impact on maternal and perinatal outcomes
Authors: Kubo Michiko , Umekawa Takashi , Maekawa Yuka , Tanaka Hiroaki , Nii Masafumi , Murabayashi Nao , Osato Kazuhiro , Kamimoto Yuki , Ikeda Tomoaki
Published: December 2016

Aim

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess tadalafil treatment in pregnant women with fetal growth restriction (FGR) in terms of maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 11 Japanese singleton pregnant women with FGR who received tadalafil along with conventional management for FGR at Mie University Hospital from July 2015 to February 2016 (tadalafil group). These women were matched for maternal age, parity, gestational age, and estimated fetal weight at enrollment with 14 singleton pregnant women who received only the conventional management for FGR in 2014 (conventional management group). The conventional management for FGR was performed according to guidelines for obstetric practice in Japan.

Results

Both birthweight and fetal growth velocity from enrollment to birth were significantly higher in the tadalafil group than in the conventional management group. The cesarean delivery rate was approximately twofold higher in the conventional management group than in the tadalafil group. Importantly, cesarean section due to non‐reassuring fetal status was performed in seven pregnant women in the conventional management group (58.3%) but in none in the tadalafil group (P < 0.05, chi‐squared test).

Conclusions

Tadalafil may improve perinatal outcome in FGR by modulating fetal growth through maintenance or improvement of fetal well‐being.
Bringing work stress home: The impact of role conflict and role overload on spousal marital satisfaction
Authors: Carnes Andrew M.
Published: December 2016

Many previous studies have explored the possibility that work stressors negatively impact the well‐being of an individual's spouse with little success. This study aimed to extend the existing literature by exploring boundary conditions of the relationship including the possibility that political skill and gender modify the relationship between role conflict, role overload, and spousal marital satisfaction. It also suggests that men and women differ in their propensity to cope with different types of stressors. Using a sample of 139 matched marital dyads, analytical results generally support these hypotheses. Political skill was a significant moderator of the role conflict–marital satisfaction relationship for the husband‐to‐wife transaction, but not the wife‐to‐husband transaction. In addition, political skill was a significant moderator of the role overload–marital satisfaction relationship for the wife‐to‐husband transaction but not the husband‐to‐wife transaction. These findings are important to both research and practice in that they highlight the issue of stress crossover and the importance of coping in the workplace.

Practitioner points

It is advantageous for an employee's marital well‐being to deal with work stressors using work‐related resources.

Males tend to use coping resources to address role conflict, while females divert these resources to role overload.
SNP‐Based Heritability Estimates of Common and Specific Variance in Self‐ and Informant‐Reported Neuroticism Scales
Authors: Realo Anu , van der Most Peter J. , Allik Jüri , Esko Tõnu , Jeronimus Bertus F. , Kööts‐Ausmees Liisi , Mõttus René , Tropf Felix C. , Snieder Harold , Ormel Johan
Published: December 2016

Objective

Our study aims to estimate the proportion of the phenotypic variance of Neuroticism and its facet scales that can be attributed to common single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in two adult populations from Estonia (EGCUT; N = 3,292) and the Netherlands (Lifelines; N = 13,383).

Method

Genomic‐relatedness‐matrix restricted maximum likelihood (GREML) using genome‐wide complex trait analysis (GCTA) software was employed. To build upon previous research, we used self‐ and informant reports of the 30‐facet NEO personality inventories and analyzed both the usual sum scores and the residual facet scores of Neuroticism.

Results

In the EGCUT cohort, the proportion of phenotypic variance explained by the additive effects of common genetic variants in self‐ and informant‐reported Neuroticism domain scores was 15.2% (p = .070, SE = .11) and 6.2% (p = .293, SE = .12), respectively. The SNP‐based heritability estimates at the level of Neuroticism facet scales differed greatly across cohorts and modes of measurement but were generally higher (a) for self‐ than for informant reports, and (b) for sum than for residual scores.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that a large proportion of the heritability of Neuroticism is not captured by additive genetic effects of common SNPs, with some evidence for Gene × Environment interaction across cohorts.
Sharing the Now in the Social Present: Duration of Nonverbal Synchrony Is Linked With Personality
Authors: Tschacher Wolfgang , Ramseyer Fabian , Koole Sander L.
Published: December 2016

Objective

The social present is a novel descriptor of dyadic nowness and social sharing, extending research on individual nowness (James's [1890] specious present) to the interpersonal and intersubjective domain. We wished to connect this descriptor to personality attributes.

Method

We define the social present by the duration of significant nonverbal synchrony, based on the phenomenon of movement synchrony that generally emerges in social interactions. It is thus an implicit and objective measure that can be implemented by automated video analyses. In this study, 168 healthy participants were invited to verbal conversations in same‐sex dyads. We analyzed the associations of the social present with personality attributes and interaction types (competition, cooperation, fun task).

Results

The average duration of the social present was 6.0 seconds, highest in competitive interactions and in male‐male dyads. People with higher Openness to Experience, higher avoidant attachment, and lower narcissistic interpersonal styles showed extended social present in their interactions.

Conclusions

The concept of the social present extends personality attributes to the interpersonal domain and to intersubjectivity. The social present may be computed based on movement synchrony but also prosodic or physiological synchronies. We foresee implications for health‐related interactions such as psychotherapy, where therapeutic presence is an essential property of alliance.
Experiences of patients undergoing dialysis who are from ethnic and racial minorities
Authors: Nagpal Neha , Boutin‐Foster Carla , Melendez Jennifer , Kubiszeswki Patryk , Uehara Kamalani , Offidani Emanuela , Faussett Zenobia , Chen Richie , Redel Cathy , Waltrous Clarence , Smith Barry
Published: December 2016

Background

Approximately 500,000 people in the United States are affected by end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD), 53% of whom are Black or Latino. ESKD significantly impacts psychosocial health and quality of life. However, few studies address the psychosocial aspects of ESKD, especially among black and Latino adults. This study sought to understand the psychosocial context of living with ESKD among black and Latino adults who reside in a medically underserved community.

Study Design

A qualitative study.

Setting and Participants

Participants were recruited from a dialysis centre in East New York, Brooklyn, a medically underserved community.

Methodology

Descriptive phenomenology was used as a qualitative approach for capturing the experiences of patients who received dialysis in this community.

Analytical Approach

Open‐ended interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed, coded and analysed using standard qualitative techniques.

Results

Data saturation was achieved at 36 participants. The following five themes emerged: the transition to dialysis is abrupt and unexpected; denial is often an initial response; dialysis is the new normal and in order to survive one must forget the past and press forward; dialysis changes everything and impacts the entire family; strength was often found in faith and family.

Limitations

This study was conducted in one setting and may need to be expanded to other sites to capture the experiences of patients cared for in other settings.

Conclusion

These findings have practical implications for informing patient‐centered models of care that are more responsive to the psychosocial needs of patients with ESKD living in medically underserved communities.
Differences in background characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis C who achieved sustained virologic response with interferon‐free versus interferon‐based therapy and the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma after eradication of hepatitis C virus in Japan
Authors: Toyoda H. , Tada T. , Takaguchi K. , Senoh T. , Shimada N. , Hiraoka A. , Michitaka K. , Ishikawa T. , Kumada T.
Published: December 2016

We compared the background characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis C who achieved eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV), that is sustained virologic response (SVR), with interferon (IFN)‐based versus IFN‐free antiviral therapy in Japan. In addition, we used a previously reported risk assessment model to compare the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after SVR by treatment type. Pretreatment characteristics of 1533 patients who achieved SVR with IFN‐based therapy and 1086 patients with IFN‐free therapy from five institutions across Japan were compared. The risk of HCC after SVR was assessed based on pretreatment characteristics, and the incidence of HCC after SVR was estimated in both groups. Age and serum alpha‐fetoprotein levels were higher, platelet count was lower, and liver fibrosis was more advanced in patients who achieved SVR with IFN‐free therapy compared with IFN‐based therapy. The incidence of HCC after SVR in the IFN‐free group was estimated to be more than twofold higher than in the IFN‐based therapy group (7.29% vs. 3.09%, and 6.23% vs. 3.01% when excluding patients who have underwent curative treatment for HCC). There are large differences in pretreatment characteristics between patients who achieved SVR with IFN‐based and IFN‐free therapies in Japan, which are associated with differential risk of HCC after SVR. These differences can influence the incidence of HCC after SVR and should be taken into consideration when comparing IFN‐based and IFN‐free therapies in terms of hepatocarcinogenesis suppression with HCV eradication.
Exercising discretion in the context of dependent employment: assessing the impact of workload on the rule of law
Authors: Campbell Shelagh MR
Published: December 2016

Faced with growing pressures for accountability and increasing complexity of legal work, the international legal community has focused attention on support for the rule of law. Taking a workplace perspective, this study develops and tests an individual-level measure of support for the rule of law in the context of the Canadian public sector. Results from a national survey of government-employed lawyers reveal that increasing work demands have a detrimental effect on perceived ability to uphold the rule of law in the daily execution of work tasks. This negative pressure is moderated by social support in the workplace, with diminishing effect. Lawyers in criminal law practice appear more negatively affected by work demands than those in civil or common law practices.
Macrofaunal nematodes of the deep Whittard Canyon (NE Atlantic): assemblage characteristics and comparison with polychaetes
Authors: Gunton Laetitia M. , Bett Brian J. , Gooday Andrew J. , Glover Adrian G. , Vanreusel Ann
Published: December 2016

Large nematodes form an important component of deep‐sea macrofaunal assemblages, but are often considered to be part of the meiobenthos and are rarely studied. We analysed the standing stocks, diversity, and functional group and genus‐level composition of macrofaunal nematodes at lower bathyal depths (3,500 m water depth) in the Whittard Canyon system (NE Atlantic) and on the adjacent continental slope. Five replicate sample sets were obtained using a Megacorer, at four locations (three canyon branches, one slope). Sediment samples were processed on a 500‐μm mesh to provide both nematode and polychaete data from the same samples. The dominant nematode genera included Paramesacanthion, Metacylicolaimus, Cylicolaimus and Phanodermopsis. Nematode standing stocks (density and biomass) increased significantly from slope to canyon locations. Similarly, nematode dominance increased substantially (and diversity decreased) from slope to canyon locations. Nematode feeding groups and tail shape groups also appeared to exhibit common trends across study locations. Nematode genus‐level faunal composition varied significantly between slope and canyon locations. We describe and discuss the broadly similar trends detected in the matching polychaete data, noting some differences in the polychaete density and diversity responses. We suggest that the similar trends in macrofaunal nematode and polychaete ecology across our four study locations reflect responses to both changing sedimentology and food availability.
Iodine status of pregnant women in South Australia after mandatory iodine fortification of bread and the recommendation for iodine supplementation
Authors: Condo Dominique , Huyhn Dao , Anderson Amanda J. , Skeaff Sheila , Ryan Philip , Makrides Maria , Mühlhaüsler Beverly S. , Zhou Shao J.
Published: December 2016

Mandatory iodine fortification of bread was introduced in 2009 in Australia in response to the reemergence of iodine deficiency. The aim of this study was to assess iodine intake, urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and their correlation in pregnant women (n = 783) recruited from South Australia 2 years following mandatory iodine fortification. Total iodine intake (food and supplements) and UIC were assessed at study entry (<20 weeks') and at 28 weeks' gestation. Mean (±SD) total iodine intake at study entry and 28 weeks' gestation was 307 ± 128 μg/day and 300 ± 127 μg/day, respectively. Overall, 85.9% of women met the estimated average intake (≥160 μg/day) for iodine in pregnancy, but only 44.5% met the estimated average intake from food alone. The main food sources of iodine were dairy foods and iodine‐fortified bread. Median (interquartile range) UIC at study entry and 28 weeks' gestation was 189 μg/L and 172 μg/L, respectively. At study entry, median UIC was higher in women taking supplements containing iodine ≥150 μg/day compared with those containing iodine <150 μg/day (221 μg/L vs. 163 μg/L, p = .003) and those not taking supplements containing iodine (221 μg/L vs. 159 μg/L, p < .001). At 28 weeks' gestation, the median UIC for the groups was 187, 152 and 141 μg/L, respectively (each of the two comparisons yielded p < .001). Total iodine intake (food and supplements) from all women was positively, though weakly, correlated with UIC (r = .23, p < .001). In conclusion, pregnant women in South Australia are iodine sufficient postmandatory iodine fortification of bread. However, without iodine supplementation, it may be difficult to achieve a UIC >150 μg/L.
Genomic evolution of bacterial populations under coselection by antibiotics and phage
Authors: Cairns Johannes , Frickel Jens , Jalasvuori Matti , Hiltunen Teppo , Becks Lutz
Published: December 2016

Bacteria live in dynamic systems where selection pressures can alter rapidly, forcing adaptation to the prevailing conditions. In particular, bacteriophages and antibiotics of anthropogenic origin are major bacterial stressors in many environments. We previously observed that populations of the bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 exposed to the lytic bacteriophage SBW25Φ2 and a noninhibitive concentration of the antibiotic streptomycin (coselection) achieved higher levels of phage resistance compared to populations exposed to the phage alone. In addition, the phage became extinct under coselection while remaining present in the phage alone environment. Further, phenotypic tests indicated that these observations might be associated with increased mutation rate under coselection. In this study, we examined the genetic causes behind these phenotypes by whole‐genome sequencing clones isolated from the end of the experiments. We were able to identify genetic factors likely responsible for streptomycin resistance, phage resistance and hypermutable (mutator) phenotypes. This constitutes genomic evidence in support of the observation that while the presence of phage did not affect antibiotic resistance, the presence of antibiotic affected phage resistance. We had previously hypothesized an association between mutators and elevated levels of phage resistance under coselection. However, our evidence regarding the mechanism was inconclusive, as although with phage mutators were only found under coselection, additional genomic evidence was lacking and phage resistance was also observed in nonmutators under coselection. More generally, our study provides novel insights into evolution between univariate and multivariate selection (here two stressors), as well as the potential role of hypermutability in natural communities.
Model‐based inference from microvascular measurements: Combining experimental measurements and model predictions using a Bayesian probabilistic approach
Authors: Rasmussen Peter M. , Smith Amy F. , Sakadžić Sava , Boas David A. , Pries Axel R. , Secomb Timothy W. , Østergaard Leif
Published: December 2016

Objective

In vivo imaging of the microcirculation and network‐oriented modeling have emerged as powerful means of studying microvascular function and understanding its physiological significance. Network‐oriented modeling may provide the means of summarizing vast amounts of data produced by high‐throughput imaging techniques in terms of key, physiological indices. To estimate such indices with sufficient certainty, however, network‐oriented analysis must be robust to the inevitable presence of uncertainty due to measurement errors as well as model errors.

Methods

We propose the Bayesian probabilistic data analysis framework as a means of integrating experimental measurements and network model simulations into a combined and statistically coherent analysis. The framework naturally handles noisy measurements and provides posterior distributions of model parameters as well as physiological indices associated with uncertainty.

Results

We applied the analysis framework to experimental data from three rat mesentery networks and one mouse brain cortex network. We inferred distributions for more than 500 unknown pressure and hematocrit boundary conditions. Model predictions were consistent with previous analyses, and remained robust when measurements were omitted from model calibration.

Conclusion

Our Bayesian probabilistic approach may be suitable for optimizing data acquisition and for analyzing and reporting large data sets acquired as part of microvascular imaging studies.
Acetyl‐CoA synthetases of Saccharopolyspora erythraea are regulated by the nitrogen response regulator GlnR at both transcriptional and post‐translational levels
Authors: You Di , Wang Miao‐Miao , Ye Bang‐Ce
Published: December 2016

Saccharopolyspora erythraea has three AMP‐forming acetyl‐CoA synthetases (Acs) encoded by acsA1, acsA2, and acsA3. In this work, we found that nitrogen response regulator GlnR can directly interact with the promoter regions of all three genes and can activate their transcription in response to nitrogen availability. The typical GlnR‐binding boxes were identified in the promoter regions. Moreover, the activities of three Acs enzymes were modulated by the reversible lysine acetylation (RLA) with acetyltransferase AcuA and NAD+‐dependent deacetylase SrtN. Interestingly, GlnR controlled the RLA by directly activating the expression of acuA and srtN. A glnR‐deleted mutant (ΔglnR) caused a growth defect in 10 mM acetate minimal medium, a condition under which RLA function is critical to control Acs activity. Overexpression of acuA reversed the growth defect of ΔglnR mutant. Total activity of Acs in cell‐free extracts from ΔglnR strain had a 4‐fold increase relative to that of wildtype strain. Western Blotting showed that in vivo acetylation levels of Acs were influenced by nitrogen availability and lack of glnR. These results demonstrated that GlnR regulated acetyl‐CoA synthetases at transcriptional and post‐translational levels, and mediated the interplay between nitrogen and carbon metabolisms by integrating nitrogen signals to modulate the acetate metabolism.
Effects of antipsychotics on intestinal motility in zebrafish larvae
Authors: de Alvarenga K. A. F. , Sacramento E. K. , Rosa D. V. , Souza B. R. , de Rezende V. B. , Romano‐Silva M. A.
Published: December 2016

Background

Antipsychotics are essential for the treatment of schizophrenia. However, due to side effects, both continuity of treatment and patients' general health can be jeopardized. Some of these drugs, especially clozapine, have a class of side effects attributed to their antimuscarinic properties, such as dysmotility, a condition in which muscles of the digestive system become impaired. Dysmotility may also alter the speed, strength or coordination of the digestive organs, causing distention, disturbing gastrointestinal transit, leading to symptoms such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, and even malnutrition. In this study, our aim was to develop an in vivo assay capable of identifying and studying the antimuscarinic effects of antipsychotics in a zebrafish model.

Methods

We performed video recordings of in vivo 5‐day postfertilization (dpf) zebrafish larvae gastrointestinal tracts and analyzed the frequency of spontaneous and regular cycles of contractions of the gut.

Key Results

The assay was first validated with treatment with atropine. We showed that this antimuscarinic drug reduces peristaltic cycles. Subsequently, the larvae were treated with the antipsychotics haloperidol, risperidone, and clozapine. Neither haloperidol nor risperidone reduced gut motility, but clozapine significantly reduced the frequency of cycles of contractions (P<.0001), which confirms the existing clinical data.

Conclusions & Inferences

We conclude that this zebrafish assay efficiently identifies anticholinergic side effects of antipsychotics, and can thus be a quick and useful way to screen for this property in new drugs.
Arrhythmias in Adults with Congenital Heart Disease: What Are Risk Factors for Specific Arrhythmias?
Authors: LOOMBA ROHIT S. , BUELOW MATTHEW W. , AGGARWAL SAURABH , ARORA ROHIT R. , KOVACH JOSHUA , GINDE SALIL
Published: December 2016

Introduction

An increasing number of patients with congenital heart disease are now surviving into adulthood. This has also led to the emergence of complications from the underlying congenital heart disease, related surgical interventions, and associated combordities. While the prevalence of particular arrhythmias with specific congenital heart disease has been previously described, a detailed analysis of all lesions and a large number of comorbidities has not been previously published.

Methods

Admissions with congenital heart disease were identified in the National Inpatient Sample. Associated comorbidities were also identified for these patients. Univariate analysis was done to compare those risk factors associated with specific arrhythmias in the setting of congenital heart disease. Next, regression analysis was done to identify what patient characteristics and comorbidities were associated with increased risk of specific arrhythmias.

Results

A total of 52,725,227 admissions were included in the analysis. Of these, 109,168 (0.21%) had congenital heart disease. Of those with congenital heart disease, 27,088 (25%) had an arrhythmia at some point. The most common arrhythmia in those with congenital heart disease was atrial fibrillation, which was noted in 86% of those with arrhythmia followed by atrial flutter which was noted in 20% of those with congenital heart disease. The largest burden of arrhythmia was found to be in those with tricuspid atresia with a 51% prevalence of arrhythmia in this group followed by Ebstein anomaly which had an arrhythmia prevalence of 39%. Increasing age, male gender, double outlet right ventricle, atrioventricular septal defect, heart failure, obstructive sleep apnea, transposition of the great arteries, congenitally corrected transposition, and tetralogy of Fallot were frequently noted to be independent risk factors of specific arrhythmias.

Conclusion

Approximately, 25% of adult admissions with congenital heart disease are associated with arrhythmia. The burden of arrhythmia varies by the specific lesion and other risk factors as well. Understanding of these can help in risk stratification and can help devise strategies to lower this risk.
Molecular mapping of soybean seed tocopherols in the cross ‘OAC Bayfield’ × ‘OAC Shire’
Authors: Shaw Eric J. , Rajcan Istvan
Published: December 2016

Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) is cultivated primarily for its protein and oil in the seed. In addition, soybean seeds contain nutraceutical compounds such as tocopherols (vitamin E), which are powerful antioxidants with health benefits. The objective of this study was to identify molecular markers linked to quantitative trait loci (QTL) that affect accumulation of soybean seed tocopherols. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from the cross ‘OAC Bayfield’ × ‘OAC Shire’ was grown in three locations over 2 years. A total of 151 SSR markers were polymorphic of which a one‐way analysis of variance identified 42 markers whereas composite interval mapping identified 26 markers linked to tocopherol QTL across 17 chromosomes. Individual QTL explained from 7% to 42% of the total phenotypic variation. Significant two‐locus epistatic interactions were identified for a total of 122 combinations in 2009 and 152 in 2010. The multiple‐locus models explained 18.4–72.2% of the total phenotypic variation. The reported QTL may be used in marker‐assisted selection (MAS) to develop high tocopherol soybean cultivars.
Utility of the Hemangioma Severity Scale as a Triage Tool and Predictor of Need for Treatment
Authors: Mull Jamie L. , Chamlin Sarah L. , Lai Jin‐Shei , Beaumont Jennifer L. , Cella David , Rancour Elizabeth A. , Baselga Eulalia , Haggstrom Anita N.
Published: December 2016

Background/Objectives

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are commonly encountered in primary care and most often remain asymptomatic, resolving without sequelae. Certain characteristics are associated with a greater risk of complications, associated anomalies, and disfigurement. The heterogeneous presentation poses a clinical challenge for physicians in determining the need for treatment and subspecialty referral. This study aims to evaluate the utility of the previously published Hemangioma Severity Scale (HSS) to predict the need for treatment.

Methods

This retrospective study included 106 patients with IHs seen in the Indiana University Dermatology Clinic in 2011. Data from electronic medical records and clinical photographs taken at patients' initial visits were used to score the hemangiomas using the HSS. Treatments used over 9 to 14 months of follow‐up were recorded.

Results

Four HSS score subgroups were identified. Higher HSS scores correlated with the need for treatment; 98% of patients with HSS scores of 10 or greater received local or systemic therapy. Higher HSS scores also correlated with greater frequency of complications and risks of associated structural anomalies and permanent disfigurement. Scores did not correlate with sex, age at initial presentation, history of bleeding or pain, or IH size.

Conclusions

The HSS may be a useful tool for primary care physicians in identifying high‐risk IHs that may benefit from therapy. This easy‐to‐use scale can improve clinical outcomes by identifying which patients need intervention to minimize complications. IHs with total HSS scores of 6 or greater should be referred for subspecialty evaluation.
Plaque‐Like Myofibroblastic Tumor of Infancy: A New Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alesini Francesco , Soda Giuseppe , Gianno Francesca , Boscarelli Alessandro , Cozzi Denis A. , Bosco Sandro
Published: December 2016

Plaque‐like myofibroblastic tumor of infancy is a rare entity, with only a few reports described in the literature. Herein we present a new case of a nodular plaque‐like lesion of the left lower back in an 18‐month‐old boy. The lesion might initially be thought to be a dermatofibroma, but the overall characteristics suggested the diagnosis of plaque‐like myofibroblastic tumor of infancy. We also provide a summary of previous reports in the literature about this exceptional tumor.
Evaluation of Cutaneous Findings in Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kaya Erdogan Hilal , Fıdan Saniye Tulin , Bulur Isil , Karapınar Tekden , Saracoglu Zeynep Nurhan
Published: December 2016

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by attention, concentration, mobility, and impulse control problems and is among the most frequently seen psychiatric disorders during childhood. Our aim was to evaluate cutaneous findings in children and adolescents with ADHD. In our study we found that onychophagy, traumatic skin changes, atopy and related symptoms, certain birthmarks, and acne were frequent cutaneous findings in children with ADHD. Although a limitation is the lack of a control group, ADHD is very common, and our study suggests that further studies of cutaneous findings and ADHD are warranted.
Neonatal Subgaleal Hematoma from Trauma During Vaginal Delivery without Instrument Use
Authors: Liu Lucy Y. , Antaya Richard J.
Published: December 2016

Neonatal subgaleal hematomas (SGHs) are rare but potentially life‐threatening complications of vacuum extraction deliveries. We report a rare case of four enlarging SGHs in an 11‐day‐old boy born without use of instruments during delivery. It is likely that trauma from the provider's fingers caused these SGHs during a normal vaginal delivery. Ultrasound findings confirmed the diagnosis of SGH, distinct from other birth trauma such as cephalohematoma or caput succedaneum.
Familial Progressive Hyperpigmentation, Cutaneous Mastocytosis, and Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor as Clinical Manifestations of Mutations in the c‐KIT Receptor Gene
Authors: Piqueres‐Zubiaurre Tatiana , Martínez de Lagrán Zuriñe , González‐Pérez Ricardo , Urtaran‐Ibarzabal Amaia , Perez de Nanclares Guiomar
Published: December 2016

Background

Familial progressive hyperpigmentation (FPH) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the appearance of hyperpigmented patches on the skin from early infancy that increase in size and number with age.

Methods

We report the clinical and molecular studies of an 11‐year‐old boy who had areas of hyperpigmentation since birth that had spread across his body as irregular hyperpigmented macules and papules, and include relevant history in family members.

Results

Affected members of his family shared a mutation in the c‐KIT gene. All had progressive hyperpigmentation, in some cases accompanied by gastrointestinal stromal tumors and mastocytoma. There have been few reports of familial progressive hyperpigmentation together with systemic manifestations.

Conclusions

Molecular analysis of c‐KIT should be considered in the presence of FPH with systemic involvement.
Nematodes and human therapeutic trials for inflammatory disease
Authors: Elliott D. E. , Weinstock J. V.
Published: December 2016

Helminth infections likely provide a protective influence against some immune‐mediated and metabolic diseases because helminth infection dramatically decreased in developed countries shortly before the explosive rise in the prevalence of these diseases. The capacity of helminths to activate immune‐regulatory circuits in their hosts and to modulate the composition of intestinal flora appears to be the mechanisms of protective action. Animal models of disease show that various helminth species prevent and/or block inflammation in various organs in a diverse range of diseases. Clinical trials have demonstrated that medicinal exposure to Trichuris suis or small numbers of Necator americanus is safe with minor, if any, reported adverse effects. This includes exposure of inflamed intestine to T. suis, asthmathic lung to N. americanus and in patients with atopy. Efficacy has been suggested in some small studies, but is absent in others. Factors that may have led to inconclusive results in some trials are discussed. To date, there have been no registered clinical trials using helminths to treat metabolic syndrome or its component conditions. However, the excellent safety profile of T. suis or N. americanus suggests that such studies should be possible.