bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does skull morphology constrain bone ornamentation? A morphometric analysis in the Crocodylia
Authors: Clarac F. , Souter T. , Cubo J. , de Buffrénil V. , Brochu C. , Cornette R.
Published: April 2016

Previous quantitative assessments of the crocodylians' dermal bone ornamentation (this ornamentation consists of pits and ridges) has shown that bone sculpture results in a gain in area that differs between anatomical regions: it tends to be higher on the skull table than on the snout. Therefore, a comparative phylogenetic analysis within 17 adult crocodylian specimens representative of the morphological diversity of the 24 extant species has been performed, in order to test if the gain in area due to ornamentation depends on the skull morphology, i.e. shape and size. Quantitative assessment of skull size and shape through geometric morphometrics, and of skull ornamentation through surface analyses, produced a dataset that was analyzed using phylogenetic least‐squares regression. The analyses reveal that none of the variables that quantify ornamentation, be they on the snout or the skull table, is correlated with the size of the specimens. Conversely, there is more disparity in the relationships between skull conformations (longirostrine vs. brevirostrine) and ornamentation. Indeed, both parameters GApit (i.e. pit depth and shape) and OArelat (i.e. relative area of the pit set) are negatively correlated with snout elongation, whereas none of the values quantifying ornamentation on the skull table is correlated with skull conformation. It can be concluded that bone sculpture on the snout is influenced by different developmental constrains than on the skull table and is sensible to differences in the local growth ‘context' (allometric processes) prevailing in distinct skull parts. Whatever the functional role of bone ornamentation on the skull, if any, it seems to be restricted to some anatomical regions at least for the longirostrine forms that tend to lose ornamentation on the snout.
Treatment with propranolol for infantile hemangiomas: single‐center experience
Authors: Turhan Ayşe Bozkurt , Bör Özcan , Özdemir Zeynep Canan
Published: April 2016

Background

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common soft tissue tumors of infancy. Although spontaneous regression is expected, medical treatment is needed in approximately 10–20% of cases.

Aims

We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of systemic propranolol for the treatment of IH.

Patients/Methods

Medical records of 34 eligible patients were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Treatment indications were local complications (hemorrhage, ulceration) in 38.2% of patients, cosmetic risk and face deformity in 35.3%, life‐threatening organ dysfunction in 17.6%, and impending visual impairment in 8.8%. The median age at start of treatment with propranolol was 3.5 months (range, 2–65 months). The median duration of propranolol treatment was 8 months (3–12). Response was graded as excellent (>75% improvement) in 30 patients (88.2%) and good (50–75% improvement) in 3 (8.9%). Recurrence was not observed after termination of treatment. None of our patients showed severe side effects at the beginning of or during the treatment.

Conclusions

Propranolol is a well‐tolerated, efficacious, and safe drug for treatment of IH. It can be initiated and administered in the outpatient setting. Our report supports the excellent effect and good tolerance of this novel therapy, and we propose the use of propranolol as first‐line treatment for IH.
Simple uterovaginal anastomosis for cervicovaginal atresia diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging: A report of two cases
Authors: Jeon G.‐H. , Kim S. H. , Chae H. D. , Kim C.‐H. , Kang B.‐M.
Published: April 2016

This report describes the use of a simple transvaginal surgical method to connect the uterus with the lower vagina in patients with cervicovaginal atresia. We report two girls presenting with primary amenorrhea and cyclic abdominal pain. The girls had similar magnetic resonance imaging findings that revealed markedly enlarged uteri containing blood and no structures resembling a cervix or upper vagina. We performed transvaginal uterovaginal anastomosis with no perioperative or postoperative complications. After surgery, the patients had regular menstrual cycles and one started sexual activities with no complaints. The remarkable finding was the natural increase in the vaginal depth after surgery. This simplified transvaginal uterovaginal anastomosis technique, with its promising anatomical results, might be a treatment for cervicovaginal atresia. © 2016 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Translation and validation of a Chinese version of the Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire
Authors: Xu L. , Cai B. , Fang Z.
Published: April 2016

To adapt the English version of the Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire (MFIQ) for Chinese‐speaking patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and to evaluate its validity and reliability. In total, 352 patients diagnosed with TMD according to the research diagnostic criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD) Axis I were included in this study. The psychometric evaluation included reliability, which was evaluated by internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient), and test–retest reliability and validity, which were tested by content and construct validity. Because the content validity of item 11 (kissing) was low (0·12), this item was excluded in subsequent analyses. For exploratory factor analysis, three factors were extracted, accounting for 63·6% of the variance. All items had factor loadings above 0·4. Two models were tested by confirmatory factor analysis, and the two‐factor model was adopted (χ2/df = 2·279, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0·086, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0·910). Internal reliability (coefficient alpha values of 0·925 and 0·720 for each factor) and test–retest reliability (ICCfactor1 = 0·895, 95% CIfactor1 = 0·869–0·918, ICCfactor2 = 0·720, 95% CIfactor2 = 0·645–0·783) of the Chinese MFIQ were excellent. A reliable and valid Chinese version of the MFIQ was constructed for the evaluation of Chinese patients with TMD after some modification of the English version of the MFIQ.
The Shared Etiology of Attentional Control and Anxiety: An Adolescent Twin Study
Authors: Gagne Jeffrey R. , O'Sullivan Deirdre L. , Schmidt Nicole L. , Spann Catherine A. , Goldsmith H. Hill
Published: April 2016

We investigated the etiology of attentional control (AC) and four different anxiety symptom types (generalized, obsessive‐compulsive, separation, and social) in an adolescent sample of over 400 twin pairs. Genetic factors contributed to 55% of the variance in AC and between 43 and 58% of the variance in anxiety. Negative phenotypic associations between AC and anxiety indicated that lower attentional ability is related to increased risk for all 4 anxiety categories. Genetic correlations between AC and anxiety phenotypes ranged from −.36 to −.47, with evidence of nonshared environmental covariance between AC and generalized and separation anxiety. Results suggest that AC is a phenotypic and genetic risk factor for anxiety in early adolescence, with somewhat differing levels of risk depending on symptomatology.
APPETITE PREDICTS INTAKE AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS IN PATIENTS RECEIVING PERITONEAL DIALYSIS
Authors: Young Valerie , Balaam Sarah , Orazio Linda , Bates Annerley , Badve Sunil V. , Johnson David W. , Campbell Katrina L.
Published: April 2016

Background

Sub‐optimal nutrition status is common amongst patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) and leads to poor clinical outcome. This population experiences multi‐factorial challenges to achieving optimal nutritional status, particularly driven by inadequate intake.

Objectives

The aim of this investigation was to identify factors associated with inadequate protein intake and sub‐optimal nutritional status in patients undergoing PD.

Design/Participants

This was a cross‐sectional study of 67 adult patients receiving PD (mean age 59 ± 14 years; 57% male) within a single centre. Participants were consecutively recruited and interviewed by renal dietitians, collecting: Subjective Global Assessment (SGA); quality of life (using EQ‐5D); dietary intake (via dietary interview); and appetite (using Appetite and Diet Assessment Tool). Participant demographics were obtained via survey or medical charts. Main outcome measures were inadequate dietary protein intake (<1.1 g/kg adjusted body weight/day) and malnutrition (as defined by SGA rating B or C).

Results

Overall, 15 (22%) patients were malnourished and 29 (43%) had inadequate protein intake. Poor appetite (anorexia) was reported in 62% (18/29) of participants with inadequate protein malnourished patients reported anorexia versus 12 (23%) of the well‐nourished patients (p = 0.0001).

Conclusion

Anorexia was a key risk factor for inadequate protein intake and malnutrition in patients undergoing PD. These findings highlight a need to closely monitor patients with appetite disturbances.
Incidence, aetiology and outcome of pleural empyema and parapneumonic effusion from 1998 to 2012 in a population of New Zealand children
Authors: Mahon Caroline , Walker Wendy , Drage Alan , Best Emma
Published: April 2016

Aim

To document rising incidence rates of childhood empyema and parapneumonic effusion (PPE) in South Auckland, New Zealand between 1998 and 2012; to compare epidemiology, pathogens and outcomes of children with empyema and PPE; and to ascertain whether primary care antibiotic prescribing, delayed presentation, or bacterial epidemiology might account for the rising incident rates.

Methods

Children aged 0 to14 years hospitalised with pleural empyema or PPE were retrospectively identified. Empyema was defined by ultrasound and pleural tap criteria. PPE was defined as the presence of pleural fluid on chest xray not fulfilling empyema criteria. Epidemiology, clinical features, microbiology and outcomes of empyema and PPE were compared and incidence rates analysed.

Results

Of 184 cases identified, 104 met the criteria for empyema. Empyema incidence increased from 1 per 100 000 children aged 0 to 14 years in 1998 to 10 per 100 000 in 2012, with a peak incidence of 13 per 100 000 in 2009. Staphylococcus aureus was most frequently detected (n=38), followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae (n=31). Cases of S. aureus empyema increased 4 fold over the 15 years. Dominant S. pneumoniae serotypes were 1 and 14. Thirty‐five percent of empyema and 53% of PPE cases received pre‐hospital antibiotics. Children who received pre‐hospital antibiotics were more than 40% less likely to require surgical intervention than those not pre‐treated.

Conclusions

Childhood empyema incidence has increased markedly in South Auckland. Paediatric S. aureus empyema is becoming increasingly common in South Auckland. Pre‐hospital antibiotic prescribing may mitigate the need for surgical intervention in our population.
Clobetasol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for epidermal targeting
Authors: Silva Luis Antônio Dantas , Andrade Lígia Marquez , de Sá Fernando Augusto Pires , Marreto Ricardo Neves , Lima Eliana Martins , Gratieri Tais , Taveira Stephânia Fleury
Published: April 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the epidermal targeting potential of clobetasol propionate-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (CP-NLC) when compared to that of chitosan-coated (CP-NLC-C).

Methods

CP-NLC were prepared by microemulsion method and characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, in vitro release and permeation studies. To verify epidermal targeting, permeation studies were performed in two sets of experiments. For the first set, the skin was removed from the diffusion cell and stratum corneum (SC) was separated from the remaining skin (RS). For the second set, the whole epidermis (EP) was separated from the dermis (DER). CP quantification was performed in each skin layer.

Key findings

A novel clobetasol propionate-loaded NLC was produced with 1/5th of the drug dose used in commercial formulations and, even so, presented greater skin permeation. Both chitosan-coated and uncoated NLC enhanced the amount of CP in the epidermis more than 80-fold when compared to the commercial formulation (20.26 ± 2.77; 17.85 ± 0.49 and 0.22 ± 0.02 μg/cm2, respectively). Differently from chitosan-coated NLC, the uncoated NLC did not show dermal retention.

Conclusions

NLC proved to be a system with potential for targeting drug delivery to the epidermal layer.
Oxidative pathways in response to polyunsaturated aldehydes in the marine diatom Skeletonema marinoi (Bacillariophyceae)
Authors: Gallina Alessandra A. , Palumbo Anna , Casotti Raffaella
Published: April 2016

Polyunsaturated aldehydes (PUA) have recently been shown to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and possibly reactive nitrogen species (RNS, e.g., peroxynitrite) in the diatom Skeletonema marinoi (S. marinoi), which produces high amounts of PUA. We now are attempting to acquire better understanding of which reactive molecular species are involved in the oxidative response of S. marinoi to PUA. We used flow cytometry, the dye dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR) as the main indicator of ROS (but which is also known to partially detect RNS), and different scavengers and inhibitors of both nitric oxide (NO) synthesis and superoxide dismutase activity (SOD). Both the scavengers Tempol (for ROS) and uric acid (UA, for peroxynitrite) induced a lower DHR‐derived green fluorescence in S. marinoi cells exposed to the PUA, suggesting that both reactive species were produced. When PUA‐exposed S. marinoi cells were treated with the NO scavenger 2‐4‐carboxyphenyl‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide (cPTIO), an opposite response was observed, with an increase in DHR‐derived green fluorescence. A higher DHR‐derived green fluorescence was also observed in the presence of sodium tungstate (ST), an inhibitor of NO production via nitrate reductase. In addition, two different SOD inhibitors, 2‐methoxyestradiol (2ME) and sodium diethyldithiocarbamate trihydrate (DETC), had an effect, with DETC inducing the strongest inhibition after 20 min. These results indicate the involvement of O2• generation and SOD activity in H2O2 formation (with downstream ROS generation dependent from H2O2) in response to PUA exposure. This is relevant as it refines the biological impact of PUA and identifies the specific molecules involved in the response. It is speculated that in PUA‐exposed S. marinoi cells, beyond a certain threshold of PUA, the intracellular antioxidant system is no longer able to cope with the excess of ROS, thus resulting in the observed accumulation of both O2•− and H2O2. This might be particularly relevant for population dynamics at sea, during blooms, when cell lysis increases and PUA are released. It can be envisioned that in the final stages of blooms, higher local PUA concentrations accumulate, which in turn induces intracellular ROS generation that ultimately leads to cell death and bloom decay.
Long‐Term Trends in Black and White Mortality in the Rural United States: Evidence of a Race‐Specific Rural Mortality Penalty
Authors: James Wesley , Cossman Jeralynn S.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The rural mortality penalty—growing disparities in rural‐urban macro‐level mortality rates—has persisted in the United States since the mid 1980s. Substantial intrarural differences exist: rural places of modest population size, close to urban areas, experience a greater mortality burden than the most rural locales. This research builds on recent findings by examining whether a race‐specific rural mortality penalty exists; that is, are some rural areas more detrimental to black and/or white mortality than others?

Methods

Using data from the Compressed Mortality File from 1968 to 2012, we calculate annual age‐adjusted, race‐specific mortality rates for all rural‐urban regions designated by the Rural‐Urban Continuum Codes. Indicators for population, socioeconomic status, and health infrastructure, as a proxy for access to care, are used as predictors of race‐specific mortality in multivariable regression models.

Findings

Three important results emerge from this analysis: (1) there is a substantial mortality disadvantage for both black and white rural Americans, (2) the mostadvantageousregions of mortality for blacks exhibit higher mortality than the mostdisadvantageousregions for whites, and (3) access to health care is a much stronger predictor of white mortality than black mortality.

Conclusions

The rural mortality penalty is evident in race‐specific mortality trends over time, with an added disadvantage in black mortality. The rate of mortality improvement for rural blacks and whites lags behind their same‐race, urban counterparts, creating a diverging gap in race‐specific mortality trends in rural America.
Infant Co‐Bedding: Practices and Teaching Strategies
Authors: Cullen Deborah , Vodde Cassandra R. , Williams Katherine J. , Stiffler Deborah , Luna Gaye
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Studies show that co‐bedding is a common cause of death in babies. The purpose of this study is to identify teaching strategies that can be used to increase safe sleep practices.

Design and Methods

A rigorous systematic literature search identified articles that expressed ways in which to provide co‐bedding teaching or provided recommended approaches to educating mothers and families about co‐bedding risks. NOTARI software, from OVID Tools, was used to appraise articles, extract data, and thematically organize the findings, resulting in meta‐aggregation.

Results

Two major findings were synthesized from four categories. First, co‐bedding occurred despite knowing risks and having received teaching. Second, families should receive co‐bedding messages tailored to their specific circumstances and risks.

Practice Implications

Findings showed that the lack of dialogue in co‐bedding teaching often deters caregivers and families from seeking further education or consultation. Nurses need to ensure that safe sleep practices are taught and that the material provided pertains to the caregiver's specific cultural and familial situation.
Making the case for looking beyond WHO estimates for the global burden of hepatitis C and B
Authors: Razavi H.
Published: April 2016

The article by Basnayake and Easterbrook on variation of global estimates for HBV, HCV and HIV co‐infection is a comprehensive study of cited World Health Organization (WHO) estimates in the literature between 2010 and 2014. The authors reviewed 488 articles published during this period and showed that a wide range of estimates have been quoted using different WHO estimates, and they attempt to set the record straight by listing the most recent/appropriate WHO estimates that should be used going forward.
Percutaneous Ultrasound‐guided Cholecystocentesis and Bile Analysis for the Detection ofPlatynosomumspp.‐Induced Cholangitis in Cats
Authors: Köster L. , Shell L. , Illanes O. , Lathroum C. , Neuville K. , Ketzis J.
Published: April 2016

Background

Examination of bile could be useful to diagnosePlatynosomumspp.‐induced cholangitis in cats. Obtaining bile via percutaneous ultrasound‐guided cholecystocentesis (PUC) is possible but raises safety concerns in cats with severe cholecystitis.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to investigate the use ofPUCto collect bile samples from cats with known platynosomosis and to determine if bile analysis could be a diagnostic test.

Animals

Twenty‐seven free‐roaming cats positive forPlatynosomumspp. eggs via fecal examination.

Methods

In this prospective study, fecal egg counts were performed by double centrifugation with Sheather's solution. Bile was collected usingPUCfrom anesthetized cats. Egg counts in bile were performed with a stereoscope. Euthanasia and postmortem examination were performed immediately afterPUC.

Results

All cats had ultrasound (US) evidence of cholangitis or cholecystitis. Thirty‐ninePUCs were performed with 14 cats having 2PUCs 12 or 24 days apart. Postmortem examinations showed no overt gallbladder damage or leakage but fresh blood was noted in the gallbladder lumen of 3 cats. MedianPlatynosomumspp. egg counts were higher in bile (1450 eggs/mL;IQR, 400; 5138 eggs/mL) as compared to feces (46 eggs/mL;IQR, 10; 107 eggs/mL) (P< .001).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Bile egg count analysis is an alternative method with higher egg counts as compared to fecal egg count analysis for the diagnosis of platynosomosis. Obtaining bile viaUSguidance is technically feasible and safe in cats with cholangitis/cholecystitis. Cholecystocentesis and bile analysis are especially relevant for those cats with chronic cholangitis/cholecystitis and negative fecal egg counts forPlatynosomum.
Effect of Varying Carbohydrate Fractions on Growth, Body Composition, Metabolic, and Hormonal Indices in Juvenile Black Carp, Mylopharyngodon piceus
Authors: Wu Chenglong , Ye Jinyun , Gao Jun'e , Yang Xia , Zhang Yixiang
Published: April 2016

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of varying carbohydrate (CHO) fractions on growth, body composition, metabolic, and hormonal indices in juvenile black carp, Mylopharyngodon piceus. Juvenile black carp, M. piceus (average weight: 1.5 ± 0.05 g) were fed with graded levels of dietary available CHO (0.06, 10.65, 19.43, 28.84, 37.91, and 47.38%) for 9 wk, respectively. Results showed that the highest weight gain could be obtained at 24.98% dietary CHO using second‐order polynomial regression model; and optimal dietary available CHO content (28.84%) could significantly increase the final body weight and the protein efficiency ratio (PER) while reducing the feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.05). Dietary available CHO could gradually increase the hepatosomatic index, the crude lipid contents in the whole body and the glucose and triglyceride content in the plasma. The activities of glycolysis enzymes and glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase could be increased with increasing dietary available CHO. The activities of glucose‐6‐phosphatase and fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase were firstly decreased at 10.65% dietary available CHO and increased to stable level at 19.43% dietary available CHO. In addition, both 19.43 and 28.84% dietary available CHO could increase the adiponectin contents in the plasma of black carp, M. piceus. Meanwhile, both 19.43 and 28.84% dietary available CHO could significantly increase the mRNA expression levels of growth hormone, insulin, ghrelin, neuropeptide Y, somatostatin I, and somatostatin II in juvenile black carp, M. piceus, compared with the CHO‐deficient diet (0.06%). These results suggest that optimal inclusion of dietary CHO fractions (19.43–28.84%) could improve metabolic homeostasis and promote growth and feed efficiency in juvenile black carp, M. piceus.
Protective Effect of Emodin against Hyperthermia‐induced Stress in Hepatic Cells of Grass Carp, Ctenopharyngodon idellus
Authors: Liu Bo , Cui Yanting , Brown Paul B. , Xu Pao , Wang Aiming , Xie Jun , Ge Xianping
Published: April 2016

Emodin is an anthraquinone exhibiting several positive benefits of anti‐inflammatory, free radical scavenging, and resistance to stress. The goal of this study is to investigate the effects of emodin on the hepatic cell line of grass carp exposed to hyperthermic stress. Cultured cells were treated with various emodin concentrations (0, 0.04, 0.2, and 1.0 µg/mL) at 27 C for 24 h. Then all cultured cells were exposed to thermal stress by increasing the culture temperature (32 ± 0.5 C) for 0.5 h. Increased temperatures significantly reduced cell viability and increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release in three of the four experimental groups (0, 0.2, and 1 µg/mL emodin) compared with the control. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were significantly higher in cells exposed to elevated temperatures and treated with 0.2 or 1 µg/mL emodin and mitochondrial membrane potential was significantly lower in cells treated with 0, 0.2, or 1 µg/mL emodin. Expressions of heat shock proteins (HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90) were significantly higher in all but one of the experimental groups. Our results suggest that 0.04 µg/mL emodin can increase cell viability and HSP90 mRNA level, reduce LDH release and concentration of ROS, and contribute to enhance the resistance to high temperature stress in the hepatic cells of grass carp.
Some Limiting Factors in Superintensive Production of Juvenile Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, in No‐water‐exchange, Biofloc‐dominated Systems
Authors: Prangnell David I. , Castro Leandro F. , Ali Abdulmehdi S. , Browdy Craig L. , Zimba Paul V. , Laramore Susan E. , Samocha Tzachi M.
Published: April 2016

Superintensive shrimp culture in zero‐exchange, biofloc‐dominated production systems is more biosecure and sustainable than traditional shrimp farming practices. However, successful application of this technology depends upon optimizing dietary formulations, controlling Vibrio outbreaks, and managing accumulative changes in water quality and composition. A 49‐d study investigated the effect of two commercial feeds of differing protein content and an indoor limited‐exchange, biofloc‐dominated culture environment on Litopenaeus vannamei performance and tissue composition, water quality and ionic composition, and Vibrio dynamics. Juveniles (5.3 g) were stocked at 457/m3 into four 40 m3 shallow raceways containing biofloc‐dominated water and fed one of two commercial feeds with differing protein content, 35 or 40%. Shrimp performance, Vibrio populations, and changes in shrimp and culture water composition were monitored. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in shrimp performance (survival, weight, growth, specific growth rate, total biomass, yield, feed conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio) or proximate composition between feed types. The 40% protein feed resulted in higher culture water nitrate and phosphate concentrations, alkalinity consumption and bicarbonate use, and higher phytoplankton density. The presence of Vibrio, specifically Vibrio parahaemolyticus, reduced shrimp survival. This survival decrease corresponded with increased culture water Vibrio concentrations. Culture water K+ and Mg2+ increased significantly (P < 0.05), and Sr2+, Br−, and Cl− decreased significantly (P < 0.05) over time. While Cu2+ and Zn2+ did increase in shrimp tissue, no heavy metals accumulated to problematic levels in culture water or shrimp tissue. These results demonstrate the importance of monitoring Vibrio populations and ionic composition in limited‐exchange shrimp culture systems.
Effects of Anesthetic Disposal on the Physiological and Behavioral Responses of the Lined Seahorses, Hippocampus erectus
Authors: Qin Geng , Zhang Yanhong , Wang Xin , Lin Qiang
Published: April 2016

Anesthetic disposal for fish often results in physiological and behavioral responses. There is limited information involved on the metabolic and behavioral responses of the seahorses. The lined seahorse, Hippocampus erectus, is of great interest in the sciences because of its unusual S‐shaped morphology and male pregnancy behavior. This study found that the lined seahorse could be effectively anesthetized into Stage II at the concentrations of 10 mg/L clove oil or 20 mg/L MS‐222 based on the comparison of six different treatments. The ventilation frequency, oxygen consumption, and ammonia‐N excretion of the seahorses were decreased significantly as soon as they were exposed to the anesthetic agents. A higher O : N ratio was found in seahorses anesthetized by clove oil as compared to those exposed to MS‐222. After the anesthetic treatment, the feeding frequencies of recovered seahorses were low at the beginning and then increased during the 7‐d culture. Moreover, there was no incremental difference of wet weights among the tested seahorses (P = 0.534). The findings indicate that the anesthetic process has few effects on the feeding and short‐term growth of seahorses in spite of the occurrence of physiological and behavioral responses.
Aquaculture Techniques for Crappie, Pomoxis spp., Culture
Authors: Culpepper Charlie M. , Allen Peter J.
Published: April 2016

Extensive crappie, Pomoxis spp., culture has been practiced for decades, however, knowledge of crappie aquaculture methods is limited. The following review synthesizes existing research on crappie aquaculture and identifies knowledge gaps where further research is needed. Topics such as life history, tank culture, feeding, reproduction and spawning, larval rearing, transport and harvest, triploidy, hybridization, and out‐of‐season spawning were reviewed. The outcome is a better understanding of hindrances preventing crappie aquaculture development in the past, particularly tank culture and induced spawning techniques, and specific research objectives with potential to enhance recreational and commercial production.
Cost‐effectiveness of quantitative hepatitis B virus surface antigen testing in pregnancy in predicting vertical transmission risk
Authors: Samadi Kochaksaraei Golasa , Congly Stephen E. , Matwiy Trudy , Castillo Eliana , Martin Steven R. , Charlton Carmen L. , Coffin Carla S.
Published: April 2016

Background & Aims

Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) can occur despite immunoprophylaxis in mothers with high HBV DNA levels (>5–7 log10 IU/ml). Quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen (qHBsAg) testing could be used as a surrogate marker to identify high viral load carriers, but there is limited data in pregnancy. We conducted a prospective observational study to determine the cost‐effectiveness and utility of qHBsAg as a valid surrogate marker of HBV DNA.

Methods

Pregnant patients with chronic hepatitis B were recruited from a tertiary referral centre. HBV DNA levels and qHBsAg were assessed in the second to third trimester. Statistical analysis was performed by Spearman's rank correlation and student's t‐test. The cost‐effectiveness of qHBsAg as compared to HBV DNA testing was calculated.

Results

Ninety nine women with 103 pregnancies, median age 32 years, 65% Asian, 23% African and 12% other [Hispanic, Caucasian] were enrolled. Overall, 23% (23/99) were HBV e Ag (HBeAg)‐positive. A significant correlation between qHBsAg and HBV DNA levels was noted in HBeAg‐positive patients (r = 0.79, P < 0.05) but not in HBeAg‐negative patients (r = 0.17, P = 0.06). In receiver operating characteristic analysis, the optimal qHBsAg cut‐off values for predicting maternal viraemia associated with immunoprophylaxis failure (i.e., HBV DNA ≥7 log10 IU/ml) was 4.3 log10 IU/ml (accuracy 98.7%, sensitivity 94.7%, specificity 94.4%) (95% CI, 97–100%, P < 0.05). Use of HBV DNA as compared to qHBsAg costs approximately $20 000 more per infection prevented.

Conclusion

In resource poor regions, qHBsAg could be used as a more cost‐effective marker for high maternal viraemia, and indicate when anti‐HBV nucleos/tide analogue therapy should be used to prevent HBV immunoprophylaxis failure.
Low incidence of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) in the first‐degree relatives of PBC probands after 8 years of follow‐up
Authors: Gulamhusein Aliya F. , Juran Brian D. , Atkinson Elizabeth J. , McCauley Bryan , Schlicht Erik , Lazaridis Konstantinos N.
Published: April 2016

Background & Aims

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is characterized by chronic cholestasis and disease‐specific antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). A high prevalence of AMAs in first‐degree relatives (FDRs) of PBC probands has been reported, although the natural history of such patients has not been described. We aimed to assess the risk of developing PBC in AMA+ FDRs of patients with PBC.

Methods

First‐degree relatives recruited to the Mayo Clinic PBC Genetic Epidemiology Registry and Biorepository were followed for disease onset after recruitment. Development of PBC was ascertained via self‐report during a telephone interview and/or via proband report on a questionnaire. Chi‐squared test and t‐test were used to assess the differences between categorical and continuous variables respectively. A mixed‐effects model was used to assess the change in biochemical profiles over time.

Results

Forty AMA+ and 423 AMA− subjects were included and followed for a median of 8.9 and 8.4 years respectively. Overall, 3% (n = 15) of FDRs were diagnosed with PBC, and AMA+ FDRs had a higher risk than AMA− FDRs (24% vs. 0.7%, P < 0.01). However, among undiagnosed FDRs, only 4% of AMA+ (n = 1) and 0.4% of AMA− (n = 1) FDRs were diagnosed with PBC (P = 0.17) during the follow‐up period. None of the AMA+ FDRs with normal alkaline phosphatase at baseline developed PBC in follow‐up.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a low risk of developing PBC over time in FDRs of patients with PBC, particularly those without biochemical evidence of cholestasis at baseline. These data are useful in counselling and reassuring relatives of their overall favourable prognosis.
Distressed Sales in OTC Markets
Authors: Selcuk Cemil
Published: April 2016

We present a stylized model of the over‐the‐counter markets in the tradition of Duffie et al. () with two distinctive features: (i) buyers have heterogenous preferences and their willingness to pay is private information and (ii) sellers become financially distressed if they cannot sell for too long. A unique steady‐state equilibrium exists and it is characterized by predatory buying. Specifically, during periods where sellers are more likely to become distressed (e.g. during economic crises, financial turmoils, etc.) buyers become more selective and hold off purchasing despite the abundance of distressed sales and low prices. This reluctance triggers the number of distressed sellers to grow even further and forces them for additional price cuts.
Effectiveness of Baby‐friendly community health services on exclusive breastfeeding and maternal satisfaction: a pragmatic trial
Authors: Bærug Anne , Langsrud Øyvind , Løland Beate F. , Tufte Elisabeth , Tylleskär Thorkild , Fretheim Atle
Published: April 2016

The WHO/UNICEF Baby‐friendly Hospital Initiative has been shown to increase breastfeeding rates, but uncertainty remains about effective methods to improve breastfeeding in community health services. The aim of this pragmatic cluster quasi‐randomised controlled trial was to assess the effectiveness of implementing the Baby‐friendly Initiative (BFI) in community health services. The primary outcome was exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months in healthy babies. Secondary outcomes were other breastfeeding indicators, mothers' satisfaction with the breastfeeding experience, and perceived pressure to breastfeed. A total of 54 Norwegian municipalities were allocated by alternation to the BFI in community health service intervention or routine care. All mothers with infants of five completed months were invited to participate (n = 3948), and 1051 mothers in the intervention arm and 981 in the comparison arm returned the questionnaire. Analyses were by intention to treat. Women in the intervention group were more likely to breastfeed exclusively compared with those who received routine care: 17.9% vs. 14.1% until 6 months [cluster adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.33; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03, 1.72; P = 0.03], 41.4% vs. 35.8% until 5 months [cluster adjusted OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.09, 1.77; P = 0.01], and 72.1% vs. 68.2% for any breastfeeding until 6 months [cluster adjusted OR = 1.24; 95% CI: 0.99, 1.54; P = 0.06]. The intervention had no effect on breastfeeding until 12 months. Maternal breastfeeding experience in the two groups did not differ, neither did perceived breastfeeding pressure from staff in the community health services. In conclusion, the BFI in community health services increased rates of exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months. © 2015 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
The importance of mealtime structure for reducing child food fussiness
Authors: Powell Faye , Farrow Claire , Meyer Caroline , Haycraft Emma
Published: April 2016

The aim of this study was to explore how the structure of mealtimes within the family setting is related to children's fussy eating behaviours. Seventy‐five mothers of children aged between 2 and 4 years were observed during a typical mealtime at home. The mealtimes were coded to rate mealtime structure and environment as well as the child's eating behaviours (food refusal, difficulty to feed, eating speed, positive and negative vocalisations). Mealtime structure emerged as an important factor which significantly distinguished children with higher compared with lower levels of food fussiness. Children whose mothers ate with their child and ate the same food as their child were observed to refuse fewer foods and were easier to feed compared with children whose mothers did not. During mealtimes where no distractors were used (e.g. no TV, magazines or toys), or where children were allowed some input into food choice and portioning, children were also observed to demonstrate fewer fussy eating behaviours. Findings of this study suggest that it may be important for parents to strike a balance between structured mealtimes, where the family eats together and distractions are minimal, alongside allowing children some autonomy in terms of food choice and intake.
The impact of maternal diet fortification with lipid‐based nutrient supplements on postpartum depression in rural Malawi: a randomised‐controlled trial
Authors: Stewart Robert C. , Ashorn Per , Umar Eric , Dewey Kathryn G. , Ashorn Ulla , Creed Francis , Rahman Atif , Tomenson Barbara , Prado Elizabeth L , Maleta Ken
Published: April 2016

Perinatal depression is highly prevalent in low‐and‐middle‐income countries and has been linked to poor child health. Suboptimal maternal nutrition may be a risk factor for perinatal depression. In this randomised‐controlled trial conducted in rural Malawi, we set out to test the hypothesis that women taking a fatty acid‐rich lipid‐based nutrient supplement (LNS) would have fewer depressive symptoms postpartum than those taking iron‐folate (IFA) or multiple‐micronutrient (MMN) capsules. Women were recruited from antenatal clinics and randomised to receive LNS or MMN during pregnancy and for 6 months postpartum, or IFA during pregnancy only. Maternal depressive symptoms were measured using validated translations of the Self Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), antenatally (SRQ only) and at 6 months postpartum (SRQ and EPDS). Analysis was by modified intention to treat. One thousand three hundred and ninety one women were randomised (LNS = 462, MMN = 466, IFA = 463). The groups were similar across a range of baseline variables. At 6 months postpartum, 1078 (77.5%) had SRQ completed; mean (SD) scores were LNS 1.76(2.73), MMN 1.92(2.75), IFA 1.71(2.66), P = 0.541. One thousand and fifty seven (76.0%) had EPDS completed; mean (SD) scores were LNS 5.77(5.53), MMN 5.43(4.97), IFA 5.52(5.18), P = 0.676. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups on SRQ or EPDS scores (continuous or dichotomised) in unadjusted or adjusted models. In conclusion, fortification of maternal diet with LNS compared with MMN or IFA did not reduce postnatal depressive symptoms in this study.
Targeted resequencing reveals geographical patterns of differentiation for loci implicated in parallel evolution
Authors: Westram Anja M. , Panova Marina , Galindo Juan , Butlin Roger K.
Published: April 2016

Parallel divergence and speciation provide evidence for the role of divergent selection in generating biological diversity. Recent studies indicate that parallel phenotypic divergence may not have the same genetic basis in different geographical locations – ‘outlier loci’ (loci potentially affected by divergent selection) are often not shared among parallel instances of phenotypic divergence. However, limited sharing may be due, in part, to technical issues if false‐positive outliers occur. Here, we test this idea in the marine snail Littorina saxatilis, which has evolved two partly isolated ecotypes (adapted to crab predation vs. wave action) in multiple locations independently. We argue that if the low extent of sharing observed in earlier studies in this system is due to sampling effects, we expect outliers not to show elevated FST when sequenced in new samples from the original locations and also not to follow predictable geographical patterns of elevated FST. Following a hierarchical sampling design (within vs. between country), we applied capture sequencing, targeting outliers from earlier studies and control loci. We found that outliers again showed elevated levels of FST in their original location, suggesting they were not generated by sampling effects. Outliers were also likely to show increased FST in geographically close locations, which may be explained by higher levels of gene flow or shared ancestral genetic variation compared with more distant locations. However, in contrast to earlier findings, we also found some outlier types to show elevated FST in geographically distant locations. We discuss possible explanations for this unexpected result.
Are Asymmetrically Informed Individuals Irremediably Envious?
Authors: Pesce Marialaura
Published: April 2016

In most economies, in particular in presence of uncertainty, a fair allocation does not exist. The main focus of this paper is on possibility of simultaneously resolving the equity and efficiency problems in economies with asymmetrically informed agents. We prove that if a cautious attitude towards uncertainty is socially accepted, then it is possible to have equitable and efficient allocations via a competitive equilibrium mechanism.
CDK phosphorylates the polarisome scaffold Spa2 to maintain its localization at the site of cell growth
Authors: Wang Haitao , Huang Zhen‐Xing , Au Yong Jie Ying , Zou Hao , Zeng Guisheng , Gao Jiaxin , Wang Yanming , Wong Ada Hang‐Heng , Wang Yue
Published: April 2016

Polarisome is a protein complex that plays an important role in polarized growth in fungi by assembling actin cables towards the site of cell growth. For proper morphogenesis, the polarisome must localize to the right place at the right time. However, the mechanisms that control polarisome localization remain poorly understood. In this study, using the polymorphic fungus Candida albicans as a model, we have discovered that the cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) Cdc28 phosphorylates the polarisome scaffold protein Spa2 to govern polarisome localization during both yeast and hyphal growth. In a yeast cell cycle, Cdc28‐Clb2 phosphorylates Spa2 and controls the timing of polarisome translocation from the bud tip to the bud neck. And during hyphal development, Cdc28‐Clb2 and the hyphal‐specific Cdc28‐Hgc1 cooperate to enhance Spa2 phosphorylation to maintain the polarisome at the hyphal tip. Blocking the CDK phosphorylation causes premature tip‐to‐neck translocation of Spa2 during yeast growth and inappropriate septal localization of Spa2 in hyphae and abnormal hyphal morphology under certain inducing conditions. Together, our results generate new insights into the mechanisms by which fungi regulate polarisome localization in the control of polarized growth.
Plasmenylethanolamine synthesis in Leishmania major
Authors: Pawlowic Mattie C. , Hsu Fong‐fu , Moitra Samrat , Biyani Neha , Zhang Kai
Published: April 2016

Ethanolamine glycerophospholipids are ubiquitous cell membrane components. Trypanosomatid parasites of the genus Leishmania synthesize the majority of their ethanolamine glycerophospholipids as 1‐O‐alk‐1′‐enyl‐2‐acyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine or plasmenylethanolamine (PME) through the Kennedy pathway. PME is a subtype of ether phospholipids also known as ethanolamine plasmalogen whose functions are not well characterized. In this study, we investigated the role of PME synthesis in Leishmania major through the characterization of an ethanolamine phosphotransferase (EPT) mutant. EPT‐null parasites are largely devoid of PME and fully viable in regular medium but fail to proliferate in the absence of fetal bovine serum. They exhibit significant abnormalities in the synthesis and localization of GPI‐anchored surface molecules. EPT‐null mutants also show attenuated virulence in BALB/c mice. Furthermore, in addition to PME synthesis, ethanolamine also contributes to the production of phosphatidylcholine, the most abundant class of lipids in Leishmania. Together, these findings suggest that ethanolamine production is likely required for Leishmania promastigotes to generate bulk phospholipids, to handle stress, and to control the expression of membrane bound virulence factors.
Complex polar machinery required for proper chromosome segregation in vegetative and sporulating cells of Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Kloosterman Tomas G. , Lenarcic Rok , Willis Clare R. , Roberts David M. , Hamoen Leendert W. , Errington Jeff , Wu Ling J.
Published: April 2016

Chromosome segregation is an essential process of cell multiplication. In prokaryotes, segregation starts with the newly replicated sister origins of replication, oriCs, which move apart to defined positions in the cell. We have developed a genetic screen to identify mutants defective in placement of oriC during spore development in the Gram‐positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis. In addition to the previously identified proteins Soj and DivIVA, our screen identified several new factors involved in polar recruitment of oriC: a reported regulator of competence ComN, and the regulators of division site selection MinD and MinJ. Previous work implicated Soj as an important regulator of oriC positioning in the cell. Our results suggest a model in which the DivIVA‐interacting proteins ComN and MinJ recruit MinD to the cell pole, and that these proteins work upstream of Soj to enable oriC placement. We show that these proteins form a polar complex, which acts in parallel with but distinct from the sporulation‐specific RacA pathway of oriC placement, and also functions during vegetative growth. Our study further shows that MinD has two distinct cell cycle roles, in cell division and chromosome segregation, and highlights that cell probably use multiple parallel mechanisms to ensure accurate chromosome segregation.
Identification and functional characterization of lysine methyltransferases of Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Borbolla‐Vázquez Jessica , Orozco Esther , Medina‐Gómez Christian , Martínez‐Higuera Aarón , Javier‐Reyna Rosario , Chávez Bibiana , Betanzos Abigail , Rodríguez Mario A.
Published: April 2016

Lysine methylation of histones, a posttranslational modification catalyzed by lysine methyltransferases (HKMTs), plays an important role in the epigenetic regulation of transcription. Lysine methylation of non‐histone proteins also impacts the biological function of proteins. Previously it has been shown that lysine methylation of histones of Entamoeba histolytica, the protozoan parasite that infects 50 million people worldwide each year and causing up to 100,000 deaths annually, is implicated in the epigenetic machinery of this microorganism. However, the identification and characterization of HKMTs in this parasite had not yet been determined. In this work we identified four HKMTs in E. histolytica (EhHKMT1 to EhHKMT4) that are expressed by trophozoites. Enzymatic assays indicated that all of them are able to transfer methyl groups to commercial histones. EhHKMT1, EhHKMT2 and EhHKMT4 were detected in nucleus and cytoplasm of trophozoites. In addition EhHKMT2 and EhHKMT4 were located in vesicles containing ingested cells during phagocytosis, and they co‐immunoprecipitated with EhADH, a protein involved in the phagocytosis of this parasite. Results suggest that E. histolytica uses its HKMTs to regulate transcription by epigenetic mechanisms, and at least two of them could also be implicated in methylation of proteins that participate in phagocytosis.