bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body Mass Index: A Reliable Predictor of Subcutaneous Fat Thickness and Needle Length for Ventral Gluteal Intramuscular Injections
Authors: Holliday Rex M. , Gupta Vivek , Vibhute Prasanna G.
Published: August 2016

Background:

With rising prevalence of obesity, increasing number of gluteal injections would be expected to fail in intramuscular (IM) drug delivery.

Study Question:

This study evaluated ventral gluteal fat thickness (VGT) on adult magnetic resonance imaging of pelvis and correlated it with the subjects' body mass index (BMI), weight, and height to establish evidence-based clinical estimates of individualized needle length and suitability of ventral gluteal site for IM injections.

Design:

Retrospective review.

Study Design, Measures and Outcomes:

Three hundred fifty adult (224 women, 126 men) magnetic resonance imaging scans of pelvis were reviewed to measure the VGT as the distance between the skin and the nearest edge of the gluteus medius muscle at the recommended ventral gluteal injection site. VGT was correlated with BMI, weight, and height by multivariate analysis.

Results:

Fifty-three (49 women, 4 men) subjects had VGT greater than 3.3 cm, and 146 (106 women, 40 men) subjects had VGT greater than 2.0 cm. The Pearson correlation coefficient between VGT and BMI was 0.82 for women and 0.81 for men. The difference between the VGT in men and women of comparable BMI was statistically significant (P < 0.001). BMI of 30 in women and 35 in men seem to be upper limits for successful ventral gluteal IM injections with 3.75-cm (1.5-inch) hypodermic needle. The expected failure rate of ventral gluteal IM delivery with the 3.75-cm needle is 71% in women with BMI >30, and 60% in men with BMI >35.

Conclusion:

BMI is reliably predictive of VGT in both men and women for selecting appropriate needle length for IM injections at this site. Standard needles would fail in IM delivery at this site in a considerable proportion of obese adults. Because of high prevalence of obesity in individuals with severe mental illness, our findings could significantly impact acute and maintenance therapy with injectable tranquillizers and antipsychotics.
Celiac Disease and Diabetes
Authors: Weiss Batia , Pinhas‐Hamiel Orit
Published: August 2016

Prevalence studies from around the world have established a substantial increase in the prevalence of celiac disease (CD) in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Approximately two‐thirds of patients with T1DM and CD are asymptomatic for CD at diagnosis. We aim to provide an up‐to‐date state‐of‐the‐art summary of the recommendations for serologic testing for CD in patients with T1DM and to clarify the debate on the need for screening and interventions. We searched Medline and Cochrane databases for studies of celiac autoimmunity and biopsy‐proven CD in people with T1DM between January 1, 2000 and December 1, 2015. CD was found to be an independent risk factor for micro‐ and macrovascular complications, as well as for increased morbidity in patients with T1DM. Publications, however, reveal controversy regarding the benefits of a gluten‐free diet (GFD) on glycemic control, bone health, and quality of life in individuals with T1DM and asymptomatic CD. A multicenter, prospective randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate this issue is currently ongoing. Until resolution of the pros and cons of screening for CD, and of the benefit versus burden of GFD treatment in T1DM patients with asymptomatic CD, we recommend repeated screening for CD during childhood and adulthood, and treatment with GFD for those with biopsy‐proven CD, even if asymptomatic.
Pilot Study of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Responses to Somatic Pain Stimuli in Youth With Functional and Inflammatory Gastrointestinal Disease
Authors: Huang Jeannie S. , Terrones Laura , Simmons Alan N. , Kaye Walter , Strigo Irina
Published: August 2016

Background:

Brain‐gut axis signaling modifies gastrointestinal symptomatology. Altered neural processing of intestinal pain signals involves interoceptive brain regions in adults with functional and inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders. Although these disorders frequently present in childhood, there are no published studies in youth. We determined whether neural processing of somatic pain stimuli differs in adolescents and young adults (AYA) with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as compared to healthy controls (HC).

Methods:

IBS and IBD AYA (16–20 years) underwent anticipated and thermal pain stimuli of low and high intensity on their forearm and simultaneous blood oxygen level–dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging. Data from adult HC were used for comparison. Subjects answered surveys evaluating alexithymia, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing. Group data were compared using linear mixed effects and analysis of variance.

Results:

Study groups were similar by sex but not age. Significant group by pain condition interactions were observed in interoceptive brain regions during pain anticipation, and within perceptual brain regions during perceived pain. Higher activation within interoceptive brain regions during anticipated pain was observed in IBS compared with IBD and HC subjects. IBD patients demonstrated increased activation in perceptual brain regions during experienced pain as compared to IBS and HC.

Conclusions:

IBS and IBD AYA demonstrate altered neural processing of somatic pain compared with each other and with HC. Our results suggest that neuromodulatory interventions targeting interoceptive brain circuits in IBS and perceptual brain regions in IBD may be effective.
Favorable Outcomes of Preterm Infants With Parenteral Nutrition–associated Liver Disease Treated With Intravenous Fish Oil–based Lipid Emulsion
Authors: Sorrell Michael , Moreira Alvaro , Green Kay , Jacob Rachel , Tragus Robin , Keller Laura , Quinn Amy , McCurnin Donald , Gong Alice , El Sakka Abeer , Mittal Naveen , Blanco Cynthia
Published: August 2016

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to determine the acute and long‐term outcomes of preterm infants treated with an intravenous fish oil–based lipid emulsion (FishLE) for parenteral nutrition–associated liver disease (PNALD).

Methods:

Preterm infants 14 days to 24 months of age with anatomic short gut or severe intestinal dysmotility, serum direct bilirubin ≥4 mg/dL, and requiring >60% calories from parenteral nutrition were eligible. Enrolled infants received 1 g · kg–1 · day−1 of FishLE until resolution of direct hyperbilirubinemia or return of enteral nutrition. Acute clinical effects and biochemical markers of liver function were monitored. Growth and developmental scores at 6 and 12 months postmenstrual age (PMA) were assessed and compared with controls matched by gestational age (GA).

Results:

Thirteen patients with mean GA of 28 ± 4 weeks were treated and compared with 119 GA‐matched controls. Their mean direct bilirubin was 9.8 ± 6.4 mg/dL at enrollment. All infants had resolution of cholestasis after study completion. There were no acute adverse events, deaths, or liver/intestinal transplants. Weight and head circumference were similar between FishLE‐treated patients and controls at 6‐ and 12‐month PMA. Cognitive and motor scores were decreased at 6 and 12 months PMA in FishLE‐treated infants. Logistic regression analysis showed that prolonged hospitalization was detrimental to cognitive and motor development, whereas treatment was not.

Conclusions:

The use of intravenous FishLEs in premature infants appears to be safe and reverses PNALD despite significant liver disease and intestinal failure. This therapy should be used in preterm infants with PNALD and followed long term to evaluate development.
A Rare Presentation of Isolated Congenital Splenic Hemangioma With Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome
Authors: Dapaah-Siakwan Fredrick , Bryan Carleene , Walker Lashawndra S. , del Moral Teresa
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

Splenic hemangiomas (SHs) are the most common benign neoplasms of the spleen. However, they are rare in the newborn period. We present an extremely rare case of congenital SH complicated by Kasabach-Merritt syndrome.

Case Presentation:

A 2.93 kg male infant was delivered at term with a prenatal diagnosis of a left infrarenal mass diagnosed by ultrasound at 35 weeks of gestation. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a well-defined splenic mass with multiple flow voids and scattered areas of high intensity suggestive of hemorrhage. He developed anemia, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy which required transfusion with packed red cells, platelets, cryoprecipitate, and fresh frozen plasma. Excision biopsy of the spleen led to resolution of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy. The diagnosis of SH was confirmed by histopathology. At 2 months outpatient follow-up, the patient was growing well without any evidence of tumor recurrence.

Conclusions:

Congenital SH is a rare entity that can be fatal if the potential complication of Kasabach-Merritt syndrome is not anticipated, evaluated, and promptly treated. Our patient had a favorable outcome with early surgical excision of the SH.
Physical Activity in Long-term Survivors of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Childhood and Adolescence: A Cross-sectional Cohort Study
Authors: Nayiager Trishana , Barr Ronald D. , Anderson Loretta , Cranston Amy , Hay John
Published: August 2016

Inadequate physical activity (PA) and elevated overweight/obesity (OW/OB) rates are common in survivors of cancer in childhood, especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Bony morbidity, including fractures, is also prevalent among survivors of ALL. This study examined the interrelationships of PA, measured in hours by the Habitual Activity Estimation Scale; OW/OG, defined by body mass index; and fractures (yes/no) in survivors of ALL (n=75) more than 10 years after diagnosis. All had been treated using protocols of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute Childhood ALL Consortium. The median age was 21.15 years and time from diagnosis 15.07 years, and 27 subjects had experienced fractures. More than 30% of the total sample were OW/OB. There was no correlation of body mass index with present PA. There were no significant differences between those with/without fractures in terms of age, sex, time from diagnosis, and the prevalence of OW/OB. Subjects with fractures during treatment reported more total activity on typical weekend days than those without fractures (mean 8.8 vs. 6.9 h, P<0.01). There was no significant difference on weekdays. Higher activity on weekends suggests that fractures may have occurred more commonly in those who had a more active lifestyle before, during, and after treatment.
Sorafenib Therapy for Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia with FMS-like Tyrosine Kinase 3-internal Tandem Duplication Mutations: 2 Case Reports
Authors: Osone Shinya , Imamura Toshihiko , Kanayama Takuyo , Tsuma Yusuke , Kawashima-Goto Sachiko , Nakatani Takuya , Sugimoto Atsuya , Takai Akari , Miyachi Mitsuru , Tamura Shinichi , Ishida Hiroyuki , Hosoi Hajime
Published: August 2016

Sorafenib is a promising agent for treating pediatric refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) exhibiting FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3-internal tandem duplication (FLT3-ITD); however, its optimal use needs to be established. We report 2 cases of refractory pediatric FLT3-ITD-positive AML treated with sorafenib. Case 1 underwent stem cell transplantation (SCT) without entering remission, despite the use of chemotherapy. This patient relapsed despite receiving post-SCT sorafenib. Chemotherapy combined with sorafenib successfully achieved complete remission in case 2. This patient received post-SCT sorafenib and remains in complete remission. The combination of pre-SCT and post-SCT sorafenib may thus be effective for pediatric refractory FLT3-ITD-positive AML.
Extrarenal Nephroblastoma of the Retroperitoneal Space in Children: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Itoshima Ryo , Kobayashi Ryoji , Sano Hirozumi , Hori Daiki , Kishimoto Kenji , Suzuki Daisuke , Miura Masayoshi , Takagi Yoshitake , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Fujita Shoji , Honjo Ryota , Kobayashi Kunihiko
Published: August 2016

Extrarenal nephroblastoma (ERNB) is a rare disease. We report a case of ERNB in a 4-year-old boy complaining of abdominal pain and vomiting. Imaging showed a retroperitoneal mass and left hydronephrosis. The mass was completely removed by surgery. The pathologic diagnosis was ERNB with favorable histology. Postoperative chemotherapy was administered for 24 weeks with actinomycin D, vincristine, and doxorubicin. No signs of recurrence were found for the next 3 years. We consider 53 reports of ERNB and our own. Median age at diagnosis was 42 months. The most common site is the retroperitoneal space (44.4%), followed by the uterus (14.8%).
Early Therapeutic Alliance, Treatment Retention, and 12-Month Outcomes in a Healthy Lifestyles Intervention for People with Psychotic Disorders
Authors: Andrews Michelle , Baker Amanda L. , Halpin Sean A. , Lewin Terry J. , Richmond Robyn , Kay-Lambkin Frances J. , Filia Sacha L. , Castle David , Williams Jill M. , Clark Vanessa , Callister Robin
Published: August 2016

Engaging and retaining individuals with psychotic disorders in psychosocial treatments is difficult. Early therapeutic alliance, treatment retention, and 12-month outcomes were examined in a subsample of smokers with a psychotic disorder (N = 178) participating in a healthy lifestyles study comparing a telephone versus face-to-face delivered intervention. Therapeutic alliance was assessed using the Agnew Relationship Measure; primary outcomes were treatment retention and changes in symptoms and health behaviors. Contrary to expectations, early alliance did not predict treatment retention. However, elements of both client- and therapist-rated alliance predicted some clinical outcomes (e.g., higher confidence in the therapeutic alliance at session 1 predicted improvements in 12-month depression). Some modest interactions between early alliance and intervention condition were also identified (e.g., clients initially with lower self-perceived initiative, or higher therapist-perceived bonding benefited preferentially from the telephone-delivered intervention), highlighting the need to further examine the interplay between therapeutic alliance and treatment modality.
Mating promotes lactic-acid gut bacteria in a gift-giving insect
Authors: Smith Chad C. , Srygley Robert B. , Dietrich Emma I. , Mueller Ulrich G.
Published: August 2016

Mating is a ubiquitous social interaction with the potential to influence the microbiome by facilitating transmission, modifying host physiology, and in species where males donate nuptial gifts to females, altering diet. We manipulated mating and nuptial gift consumption in two insects that differ in nuptial gift size, the Mormon cricketAnabrus simplexand the decorated cricketGryllodes sigillatus, with the expectation that larger gifts are more likely to affect the gut microbiome. Surprisingly, mating, but not nuptial gift consumption, affected bacterial community structure, and only in Mormon crickets. The change in structure was due to a precipitous drop in the abundance of lactic-acid bacteria in unmated females, a taxon known for their beneficial effects on nutrition and immunity. Mating did not affect phenoloxidase or lysozyme-like antibacterial activity in either species, suggesting that any physiological response to mating on host-microbe interactions is decoupled from the systemic immunity. Protein supplementation also did not affect the gut microbiome in decorated crickets, suggesting that insensitivity of gut microbes to dietary protein could contribute to the lack of an effect of nuptial gift consumption. Our study provides experimental evidence that sexual interactions can affect the microbiome and suggests mating can promote beneficial gut bacteria.
DNAmod: the DNA modification database
Authors: Sood Ankur Jai , Viner Coby , Hoffman Michael M.
Published: August 2016

Covalent DNA modifications, such as 5-methylcytosine (5mC), are increasingly the focus of numerous research programs. In eukaryotes, both 5mC and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) are now recognized as stable epigenetic marks, with diverse functions. Bacteria, archaea, and viruses contain various other modified DNA nucleobases. Numerous databases describe RNA and histone modifications, but no database specifically catalogues DNA modifications, despite their broad importance in epigenetic regulation. To address this need, we have developed DNAmod: the DNA modification database.

DNAmod is an open-source database (https://dnamod.hoffmanlab.org) that catalogues DNA modifications and provides a single source to learn about their properties. DNAmod provides a web interface to easily browse and search through these modifications. The database annotates the chemical properties and structures of all curated modified DNA bases, and a much larger list of candidate chemical entities. DNAmod includes manual annotations of available sequencing methods, descriptions of their occurrence in nature, and provides existing and suggested nomenclature. DNAmod enables researchers to rapidly review previous work, select mapping techniques, and track recent developments concerning modified bases of interest.
Characterization of the pscC (Type III secretion) gene ofPseudomonas aeruginosa(PA01) and assessment of immunogenicity of pscC protein in rats
Authors: Bhuiyan SA. , Vanitha DJ. , Sultana H. , Opook F. , Rodrigues KF.
Published: August 2016

Proteins associated with the bacterial membrane can be recruited for application as antigens for the development of vaccines. This preliminary study was directed towards evaluating the antigenic properties of thePseudomonas aeruginosa(PA01) pscC protein which is a component of the Type III secretion system. Gene specific primers were designed to isolate thepscCgene which was isolated, ligated onto the multiple cloning site of vector pGS21(a), cloned and expressed inEscherichia coli(BL21). The molecular weight of the expressed pscC protein was determined by SDS-PAGE (10% sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) and was found to be around 57 KDa and purified by the size exclusion chromatography. Finally, the purified pscC protein was injected subcutaneously into adult Sprague Dawley®rats with a range of concentrations (50, 100 and 150 µg per rat) respectively. Recombinant pscC antigen induced a specific humoral immune response against the antigen, which was validated by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results concluded that anti-pscC antibody was elicited in the animal model.
Deep Mutational Scanning Identifies Sites in Influenza Nucleoprotein That Affect Viral Inhibition by MxA
Authors: Ashenberg Orr , Padmakumar Jai , Doud Michael B. , Bloom Jesse D.
Published: August 2016

The innate-immune restriction factor MxA inhibits influenza replication by targeting the viral nucleoprotein (NP). Human influenza is more resistant than avian influenza to inhibition by human MxA, and prior work has compared human and avian viral strains to identify amino-acid differences in NP that affect sensitivity to MxA. However, this strategy is limited to identifying sites in NP where mutations that affect MxA sensitivity have fixed during the small number of documented zoonotic transmissions of influenza to humans. Here we use an unbiased deep mutational scanning approach to quantify how all ≈10,000 amino-acid mutations to NP affect MxA sensitivity. We both identify new sites in NP where mutations affect MxA resistance and re-identify mutations known to have increased MxA resistance during historical adaptations of influenza to humans. Most of the sites where mutations have the greatest effect are almost completely conserved across all influenza A viruses, and the amino acids at these sites confer relatively high resistance to MxA. These sites cluster in regions of NP that appear to be important for its recognition by MxA. Overall, our work systematically identifies the sites in influenza nucleoprotein where mutations affect sensitivity to MxA. We also demonstrate a powerful new strategy for identifying regions of viral proteins that affect interactions with host factors.

Author Summary

During viral infection, human cells express proteins that can restrict virus replication. However, in many cases it remains unclear what determines the sensitivity of a given viral strain to a particular restriction factor. Here we use a high-throughput approach to measure how all amino-acid mutations to the nucleoprotein of influenza virus affect restriction by the human protein MxA. We find several dozen sites where mutations substantially affect influenza’s sensitivity to MxA. While a few of these sites are known to have fixed mutations during past adaptations of influenza to humans, most of the sites are broadly conserved across all influenza strains and have never previously been described as affecting MxA resistance. Our results therefore show that the known historical evolution of influenza has only involved substitutions at a small fraction of the sites where mutations can in principle affect MxA resistance. We suggest that this is because many sites are already broadly fixed at amino acids that confer high resistance.
Crystallization of and selenomethionine phasing strategy for a SETMAR–DNA complex
Authors: Chen Qiujia , Georgiadis Millie
Published: August 2016

Transposable elements have played a critical role in the creation of new genes in all higher eukaryotes, including humans. Although the chimeric fusion protein SETMAR is no longer active as a transposase, it contains both the DNA-binding domain (DBD) and catalytic domain of theHsmar1transposase. The amino-acid sequence of the DBD has been virtually unchanged in 50 million years and, as a consequence, SETMAR retains its sequence-specific binding to the ancestralHsmar1terminal inverted repeat (TIR) sequence. Thus, the DNA-binding activity of SETMAR is likely to have an important biological function. To determine the structural basis for the recognition of TIR DNA by SETMAR, the design of TIR-containing oligonucleotides and SETMAR DBD variants, crystallization of DBD–DNA complexes, phasing strategies and initial phasing experiments are reported here. An unexpected finding was that oligonucleotides containing two BrdUs in place of thymidines produced better quality crystals in complex with SETMAR than their natural counterparts.
Crystal structure ofHalobacterium salinarumhalorhodopsin with a partially depopulated primary chloride-binding site
Authors: Schreiner Madeleine , Schlesinger Ramona , Heberle Joachim , Niemann Hartmut H.
Published: August 2016

The transmembrane pump halorhodopsin in halophilic archaea translocates chloride ions from the extracellular to the cytoplasmic side upon illumination. In the ground state a tightly bound chloride ion occupies the primary chloride-binding site (CBS I) close to the protonated Schiff base that links the retinal chromophore to the protein. The light-triggeredtrans–cisisomerization of retinal causes structural changes in the protein associated with movement of the chloride ion. In reverse, chemical depletion of CBS I inNatronomonas pharaonishalorhodopsin (NpHR) through deprotonation of the Schiff base results in conformational changes of the protein: a state thought to mimic late stages of the photocycle. Here, crystals ofHalobacterium salinarumhalorhodopsin (HsHR) were soaked at high pH to provoke deprotonation of the Schiff base and loss of chloride. The crystals changed colour from purple to yellow and the occupancy of CBS I was reduced from 1 to about 0.5. In contrast toNpHR, this chloride depletion did not cause substantial conformational changes in the protein. Nevertheless, two observations indicate that chloride depletion could eventually result in structural changes similar to those found inNpHR. Firstly, the partially chloride-depleted form ofHsHR has increased normalizedBfactors in the region of helix C that is close to CBS I and changes its conformation inNpHR. Secondly, prolonged soaking ofHsHR crystals at high pH resulted in loss of diffraction. In conclusion, the conformation of the chloride-free protein may not be compatible with this crystal form ofHsHR despite a packing arrangement that hardly restrains helices E and F that presumably move during ion transport.
Basosquamous carcinoma: Dermoscopic clues to diagnosis
Authors: Akay Bengu Nisa , Saral Secil , Heper Aylin O. , Erdem Cengizhan , Rosendahl Cliff
Published: August 2016

Basosquamous carcinoma (BSC) is a rare skin cancer which has areas of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and a transition zone between them. However, dermoscopic features ofBSCare not well described in the published work, except one study. The aim of the present study was to better identify and clarify the dermoscopic findings ofBSCin the largest group of patients in the published work and to describe its dermoscopic features according to histopathologicallyBCC‐dominant,SCC‐dominant and intermediate categories. Dermoscopic features of 36 histopathologically provenBSCand their dermatopathological correlates were retrospectively analyzed. Dermoscopic features were evaluated by pattern analysis. Keratin mass (91.7%) was the most common dermoscopic feature. Surface scaling (77.8%), ulceration (69.4%), white structureless areas (69.4%), white clods (66.7%) and blood spots on keratin mass (66.7%) were the other frequent findings. Polymorphous vascular pattern consisting of various combinations of branched, serpentine, straight, coiled or looped vessels were detected in 61% of the lesions.BSChasBCC‐dominant vascular features together with otherwiseSCC‐dominant morphology, the common pattern seen inBSClesions beingBCC‐dominant polymorphous or monomorphous vasculature, together with dermoscopic findings of keratinization. White circles, known to be a valuable clue toSCCand keratoacanthoma, were present at the same magnitude inBSCin our study. The observed histological correlation of eosinophilic keratin overlying the epithelium which lined follicular infundibulae in these tumors, provides a plausible new perspective on dermoscopic white circles.
Endure and call for help: strategies of black mustard plants to deal with a specialized caterpillar
Authors: Lucas‐Barbosa Dani , Dicke Marcel , Kranenburg Twan , Aartsma Yavanna , van Beek Teris A. , Huigens Martinus E. , van Loon Joop J. A.
Published: August 2016

Plants have evolved inducible resistance and tolerance mechanisms against insect herbivores. Resistance mechanisms that affect herbivorous insects directly can be effective against generalist herbivores, but will not deter specialist herbivores from attacking the plant. Tolerance mechanisms and indirect plant resistance are more likely effective strategies used by plants when dealing with specialist herbivores. However, inducible indirect resistance and tolerance mechanisms have rarely been investigated within the same study system.

We studied multiple tolerance mechanisms and the role of natural enemies in reducing fitness loss ofBrassica nigraplants incurred by feeding by the specialist herbivorePieris brassicae. For this, we measured the changes in carbon and nitrogen triggered by herbivore attack and quantified plant biomass and seed production under field conditions, in the presence or absence of natural enemies of the herbivores. We also assessed whetherB. nigraincreased selfing rates when exposed to herbivore infestation, and investigated whether infestation byP. brassicaerenderedB. nigraplants more attractive to night‐active pollinators than control plants.

We found thatB. nigraflowers are rarely visited by insects during the night, and exposure to herbivores did not influence selfing rates.Brassica nigraplants compensated for herbivory in terms of vegetative biomass. Seed set was negatively affected by herbivory in the absence of natural enemies, but not in the presence of natural enemies. Plants responded to herbivory with drastic changes in nitrogen contents of leaves and flowers, whereas no changes in carbon concentrations were detected.

The investment in reproduction or re‐growth of vegetative tissues is not sufficient to sustain plant fitness. Reproductive output of flowering mustard plants is only sustained when interactions with the natural enemies of the herbivores are preserved. We conclude that natural enemies of herbivorous insects play an important role as component of the plant's defence strategy. This study reveals that both tolerance and indirect resistance are strategies of this plant species to sustain fitness.
Weak‐anisotropy approximation for P‐wave reflection coefficient at the boundary between two tilted transversely isotropic media
Authors: Ivanov Yuriy , Stovas Alexey
Published: August 2016

Existing and commonly used in industry nowadays, closed‐form approximations for a P‐wave reflection coefficient in transversely isotropic media are restricted to cases of a vertical and a horizontal transverse isotropy. However, field observations confirm the widespread presence of rock beds and fracture sets tilted with respect to a reflection boundary. These situations can be described by means of the transverse isotropy with an arbitrary orientation of the symmetry axis, known as tilted transversely isotropic media. In order to study the influence of the anisotropy parameters and the orientation of the symmetry axis on P‐wave reflection amplitudes, a linearised 3D P‐wave reflection coefficient at a planar weak‐contrast interface separating two weakly anisotropic tilted tranversely isotropic half‐spaces is derived. The approximation is a function of the incidence phase angle, the anisotropy parameters, and symmetry axes tilt and azimuth angles in both media above and below the interface. The expression takes the form of the well‐known amplitude‐versus‐offset “Shuey‐type” equation and confirms that the influence of the tilt and the azimuth of the symmetry axis on the P‐wave reflection coefficient even for a weakly anisotropic medium is strong and cannot be neglected. There are no assumptions made on the symmetry‐axis orientation angles in both half‐spaces above and below the interface. The proposed approximation can be used for inversion for the model parameters, including the orientation of the symmetry axes. Obtained amplitude‐versus‐offset attributes converge to well‐known approximations for vertical and horizontal transverse isotropic media derived by Rüger in corresponding limits. Comparison with numerical solution demonstrates good accuracy.
Determination of Inorganic Ion Profiles of Illicit Drugs by Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Evans Elizabeth , Costrino Carolina , do Lago Claudimir L. , Garcia Carlos D. , Roux Claude , Blanes Lucas
Published: August 2016

A portable capillary electrophoresis instrument with dual capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C4D) was used to determine the inorganic ionic profiles of three pharmaceutical samples and precursors of two illicit drugs (contemporary samples of methylone and para‐methoxymethamphetamine). The LODs ranged from 0.10 μmol/L to 1.25 μmol/L for the 10 selected cations, and from 0.13 μmol/L to 1.03 μmol/L for the eight selected anions. All separations were performed in less than 6 min with migration times and peak area RSD values ranging from 2 to 7%. The results demonstrate the potential of the analysis of inorganic ionic species to aid in the identification and/or differentiation of unknown tablets, and real samples found in illicit drug manufacture scenarios. From the resulting ionic fingerprint, the unknown tablets and samples can be further classified.
Experimental conditions improving in‐solution target enrichment for ancient DNA
Authors: Cruz‐Dávalos Diana I. , Llamas Bastien , Gaunitz Charleen , Fages Antoine , Gamba Cristina , Soubrier Julien , Librado Pablo , Seguin‐Orlando Andaine , Pruvost Mélanie , Alfarhan Ahmed H. , Alquraishi Saleh A. , Al‐Rasheid Khaled A. S. , Scheu Amelie , Beneke Norbert , Ludwig Arne , Cooper Alan , Willerslev Eske , Orlando Ludovic
Published: August 2016

High‐throughput sequencing has dramatically fostered ancient DNA research in recent years. Shotgun sequencing, however, does not necessarily appear as the best‐suited approach due to the extensive contamination of samples with exogenous environmental microbial DNA. DNA capture‐enrichment methods represent cost‐effective alternatives that increase the sequencing focus on the endogenous fraction, whether it is from mitochondrial or nuclear genomes, or parts thereof. Here, we explored experimental parameters that could impact the efficacy of MYbaits in‐solution capture assays of ~5000 nuclear loci or the whole genome. We found that varying quantities of the starting probes had only moderate effect on capture outcomes. Starting DNA, probe tiling, the hybridization temperature and the proportion of endogenous DNA all affected the assay, however. Additionally, probe features such as their GC content, number of CpG dinucleotides, sequence complexity and entropy and self‐annealing properties need to be carefully addressed during the design stage of the capture assay. The experimental conditions and probe molecular features identified in this study will improve the recovery of genetic information extracted from degraded and ancient remains.
Scratching beneath the surface: Bandicoot bioturbation contributes to ecosystem processes
Authors: Valentine Leonie E. , Bretz Michael , Ruthrof Katinka X. , Fisher Rebecca , Hardy Giles E. St J. , Fleming Patricia A.
Published: August 2016

Animals that forage for food or dig burrows by biopedturbation can alter the biotic and abiotic characteristics of their habitat. The digging activities of such ecosystem engineers, although small at a local scale, may be important for broader scale landscape processes by influencing soil and litter properties, trapping organic matter and seeds, and subsequently altering seedling recruitment. We examined environmental characteristics (soil moisture content, hydrophobicity and litter composition) of foraging pits created by the southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus; Peramelidae), a digging Australian marsupial, over a 6‐month period. Fresh diggings typically contained a higher moisture content and lower hydrophobicity than undisturbed soil. A month later, foraging pits contained greater amounts of fine litter and lower amounts of coarse litter than adjacent undug surfaces, indicating that foraging pits may provide a conducive microhabitat for litter decomposition, potentially reducing litter loads and enhancing nutrient decomposition. We tested whether diggings might affect seedling recruitment (seed removal by seed harvesters and seed germination rates) by artificially mimicking diggings. Although there were no differences in the removal of seeds, seedling recruitment for three native plant species (Acacia saligna, Kennedia prostrata and Eucalyptus gomphocephala) was higher in plots containing artificial diggings compared with undug sites. The digging actions of bandicoots influenced soil moisture and hydrophobicity, the size distribution of litter and seedling recruitment at a local scale. The majority of Australian digging mammals are threatened, with many suffering substantial population and range contraction. However, their persistence in landscapes plays an important role in maintaining the health and function of ecosystems.
Cryoprotectant‐free vitrification of human spermatozoa in new artificial seminal fluid
Authors: Agha‐Rahimi A. , Khalili M. A. , Nottola S. A. , Miglietta S. , Moradi A.
Published: August 2016

Vitrification is a new method that has been recently introduced in Assisted Reproduction Technique programs. The aim of this study was to design a new medium similar to normal human seminal fluid (SF), formulation artificial seminal fluid (ASF), and to compare the cryoprotective potency of this medium withSFand human tubal fluid (HTF) medium. Thirty normal ejaculates were processed with the swim‐up technique and sperm suspensions were divided into four aliquots: (i) fresh sample (control); (ii) vitrification in HTF medium supplemented with 5 mg/mL human serum albumin and 0.25 mol sucrose (VitHTF); (iii) vitrification with patients’SF(VitSF); and (iv) vitrification inASF(VitASF). After warming, sperm parameters of motility, viability, and morphology were analyzed usingWHOcriteria. Also, sperm pellets were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde and processed for scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy observations. The results showed that progressive motility (46.09 ± 10.33 vs. 36.80 ± 13.75), grade A motility (36.59 ± 11.40 vs. 16.41 ± 11.24), and normal morphology (18.74 ± 8.35 vs. 11.85 ± 5.84) and viability (68.22 ± 10.83 vs. 60.86 ± 11.72) of spermatozoa were significantly higher in VitASFthan in VitHTF. All parameters were better in VitASFthan in VitSF, but only viability was significantly different (p = 0.006). After cryopreservation, deep invagination in cytoplasm and mechanically weak point sites and folded tail were commonly observed. But, this phenomenon was more significant in VitHTFand VitSFthan inASF(p < 0.05). In transmission electron microscopy evaluation, acrosome damage, plasma membrane loss, chromatin vacuolation, and disruption of mitochondria arrangement and structures were observed in all vitrified groups. Adherence of several tail sections together was also seen in all cryo groups. But this was seen more in VitHTFand VitSFthanin ASF(p < 0.05). In conclusion, vitrification of human spermatozoa withASFcan effectively preserve the quality of sperm motility in comparison with VitHTF.
Removing seminal plasma improves bovine sperm sex‐sorting
Authors: Steinhauser C. B. , Graham J. K. , Lenz R. W. , Seidel G. E.
Published: August 2016

Bull ejaculates with sperm concentrations of less than 1 billion sperm sort poorly for sex chromosomes, but whether this is because of the sperm concentration or the concomitant seminal plasma content has not been elucidated. Experiments were conducted to determine why ejaculates with lower sperm concentrations sort poorly and develop a protocol to increase sorting efficiency. In Experiment I, spermatozoa at 160 or 240 × 106 sperm/mL were stained at 49, 65 or 81 μm Hoechst 33342 with 0 or 10% seminal plasma and then sex‐sorted. In Experiment II, seminal plasma was adjusted to create samples with sperm concentrations of 0.7, 1.4 and 2.1 × 109 sperm/mL, prior to sex‐sorting. In Experiment III, spermatozoa were diluted to 0.7, 1.4 and 2.1 × 109 sperm/mL using TALP containing 0 or 10% seminal plasma prior to sex‐sorting and cryopreservation. In Experiment I, the optimal staining combination was 160 × 106 sperm/mL stained with 65 μm Hoechst 33342 and no seminal plasma. In Experiment II, the percentages of membrane‐impaired sperm were lower for sample concentrations of 2.1 × 109 sperm/mL (15%) than for samples at 1.4 × 109 (17%) or 0.7 × 109 sperm/mL (18%; p < 0.01). The X sort rate was slower for samples stored at 0.7 × 109 sperm/mL (3.45 × 103 sperm/sec) than for samples stored at 1.4 × 109 and 2.1 × 109 sperm/mL (3.85 and 3.94 × 103 sperm/sec, respectively; p < 0.05). In Experiment III, samples containing 0% seminal plasma had higher percentages of live‐oriented cells (54 vs. 50%; p < 0.05), fewer dead sperm (19 vs. 22%; p < 0.01) and higher post‐thaw motility (41 vs. 35%; p < 0.05) than samples containing 10% seminal plasma. Ejaculates with high sperm concentrations result in superior sorting because these samples have less seminal plasma during staining than ejaculates with lower initial sperm concentrations as all samples are diluted to 160 × 106 sperm/mL for staining. Therefore, sorting efficiency appears to be affected by seminal plasma concentration, not by the original sperm concentration.
REVISITING GLOBALIZATION CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF COOPERATIVES
Authors: BRETOS Ignacio , MARCUELLO Carmen
Published: August 2016

Cooperatives have gained prominent attention in recent years as strategic elements to achieve sustainable economic development and greater social cohesion in the context of neoliberal globalization. This article explores, theoretically, the current challenges and opportunities for cooperatives to develop successfully in the globalizing economy. To this end, we provide an analytical, critical review of the key bibliography concerning some fundamental aspects that shape the relationship between economic globalization and cooperatives, an issue that has been generally neglected by previous literature. Three key fields are addressed: 1) the viability of cooperatives, based on their strengths and possible weaknesses, under current globalization; 2) the role of these organizations in promoting the local development and stability of local communities; and 3) the tensions and potentialities that internationalization entails for cooperatives. Based on the analytical review and the organization of the literature, we propose an agenda for further research. This includes some hypotheses and strategies for testing them that would be essential to assess the role of cooperatives in economic globalization, and sheds light on key areas for future research that could provide a better understanding of the complexity surrounding the relationship between globalization and cooperatives.
NEED FOR A SHIFT FROM A PHILANTHROPIC TO A HUMANISTIC APPROACH TO CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Authors: CHERUVALATH Reena
Published: August 2016

As part of their business practices, the Indian government has made it mandatory for companies who have a turnover of 500 crores and above to spend 2 per cent of their net profits from the immediately preceding three financial years on corporate social responsibility (CSR). This article proposes to examine the issue of whether this enforced philanthropic responsibility of companies is helpful to both society and the organization. With the philanthropic approach it is not necessary for the organization to fulfill its responsibilities toward those who work in and for the organization, its customers and to the ecological system in general. Achieving both organizational growth and social development requires a shift from a philanthropic approach to a humanistic approach on the part of companies and the government, accommodating all its stakeholders.
FARMERS’ WILLINGNESS TO COOPERATE IN ECOSYSTEM SERVICE PROVISION: DOES TRUST MATTER?
Authors: STALLMAN Heidi R. , JAMES Harvey S.
Published: August 2016

Ecosystem service provision in agriculture may require cooperation between farmers. Trust fosters cooperation in many economic and social interactions and is important to the success of traditional agricultural cooperatives. Little is known about how trust affects farmers’ willingness to cooperate to provide an ecosystem service, what types of trust are most important, and under what conditions trust may matter. In this study, we present results of a survey of Missouri crop farmers exploring the role trust plays in farmers’ stated willingness to cooperate to control pests. We find that most farmers say they are willing to cooperate, and most farmers are willing to trust others. However, we find little evidence that trust positively influences farmers’ willingness to cooperate to control pests. Instead, we find that trust may only matter under certain conditions, such as when participants’ farms are dissimilar, and that other determinants, such as the perceived benefit of cooperation and environmental concern, are more important than trust to farmers who are contemplating cooperation to control pests.
Rewards and Creativity: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Malik Muhammad Abdur Rahman , Butt Arif N.
Published: August 2016

Research on the effects of rewards on creativity has resulted in hundreds of empirical studies and several reviews of the reward–creativity relationship (RCR). Most reviews are retrospective in nature. They have quantitatively summarised and integrated previous research findings, but have largely overlooked the need for a theoretical framework to guide future research. The current systematic review of this literature intends to bridge this gap, based on the findings of 329 papers and book chapters. Our review summarises the theoretical developments in reward–creativity (RC) research, and classifies the literature in three distinct phases, i.e. the emergence of the cognitive perspective; behavioural rebuttal, and convergence. The paper identifies three important gaps in the existing RC literature: (1) the moderating effects of individual, group, organisational, and national‐level factors; (2) the mediating role of cognitive and affective states; and (3) the lack of consideration of creativity as a multidimensional construct. Based on these gaps, the paper presents a four‐factor framework to guide future RC research. It identifies potential moderators and mediators of the RCR, and draws attention to creativity as a multidimensional construct.
Comparative efficacy of BioRelease Deslorelin® injection for induction of ovulation in oestrus mares: a field study
Authors: Finan SA , Lamkin EL , McKinnon AO
Published: August 2016

Objective

To investigate the comparative efficacy of BioRelease Deslorelin® (BRD) and Ovuplant® for induction of ovulation in cyclic mares in Australia.

Methods

Ovarian follicular activity of 60 mares for a total of 95 cycles was monitored by ultrasonography until they developed a follicle ≥30 mm and a uterine oedema pattern of 3. Mares were then randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: (1) treatment with 1.25 mg BRD, (2) a single Ovuplant pellet or (3) 1 mL compound sodium lactate control. Follicular activity was monitored with ultrasonography every 12 h until ovulation was detected or for at least 5 days post treatment. The injection site on each mare was monitored for reaction for a minimum of 5 days post treatment.

Results

There was no difference in the percentage of mares ovulating within 48 h when treated with BRD (93.75%) compared with Ovuplant (87.09%). Treatment with both ovulating agents significantly decreased the time to ovulation compared with control mares (P < 0.00005). More mares had injection site reactions with Ovuplant (64.5%) treatment compared with BRD (15.6%) or control mares (0%) (P < 0.00005).

Conclusions

Treatment of mares with 1.25 mg BRD when there is a follicle ≥30 mm and uterine oedema pattern of 3 is as effective as treatment with Ovuplant.
Effects of pimobendan on myocardial perfusion and pulmonary transit time in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease: a pilot study
Authors: Apple SM , Menciotti G , Braz‐Ruivo L , Crosara S , Häggström J , Borgarelli M
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To describe pulmonary transit time (nPTT) and myocardial perfusion (nMP) normalised to heart rate in dogs with stable ACVIM stage C myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and to assess short‐term effects of pimobendan on these variables. We hypothesised that nPTT and nMP would increase in dogs with MMVD compared with normal dogs. Additionally, we hypothesised that treatment with pimobendan would decrease nMP and nPTT in dogs with MMVD.

Design

Prospective, single‐blind study involving 6 normal dogs and 12 dogs with MMVD.

Methods

Dogs with MMVD were treated with enalapril and furosemide for at least 1 month prior to examination. All dogs underwent standard and contrast echocardiographic examinations at the beginning of the study (T0). At this time, MMVD dogs were randomly assigned to receive either pimobendan (0.4–0.6 mg/kg) or not. All dogs with MMVD were re‐evaluated by standard and contrast echocardiography after 1 week (T1) and nPTT and nMP were measured.

Results

nPTT was significantly increased in dogs with MMVD (P = 0.0063), compared with normal dogs. It was significantly decreased at T1 in dogs receiving pimobendan (P = 0.0250). The nMP was not significantly different in dogs with MMVD, compared with healthy dogs (P = 0.2552), and it was not significantly different at T1 in the treatment group (P = 0.8798).

Conclusions

Contrast echocardiography was a valid, complementary tool for echocardiographic analysis of dogs with MMVD. Pimobendan decreased nPTT in dogs affected by MMVD. Myocardial perfusion was not different in dogs with severe MMVD.