bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic Review of the Diagnostic Accuracy of Haptoglobin, Serum Amyloid A, and Fibrinogen versus Clinical Reference Standards for the Diagnosis of Bovine Respiratory Disease
Authors: Abdallah A. , Hewson J. , Francoz D. , Selim H. , Buczinski S.
Published: June 2016

Background

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a worldwide animal health concern especially in feedlot, dairy, and veal calves. One of the greatest challenges is the absence of a gold standard for achieving an accurateantemortemdiagnosis. Various blood markers, including the acute‐phase proteins (AAP), have been proposed as potential valuable tools forBRDdiagnosis.

Objectives

To perform a systematic review of the literature to assess the accuracy of selectedAPP(haptoglobin [Hp], serum amyloid A [SAA], and fibrinogen [Fb]) as diagnostic tools for cattle with naturally occurringBRDwhen compared with clinical reference standards of diagnosis.

Methods

This review was performed with eligible studies selected fromCABAbstract andMEDLINEfrom 1946 to 2015, as well as the “gray literature.” Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using theQUADAS‐2 tool developed for diagnostic accuracy studies. The accuracy parameters sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) were obtained from the articles or through contact with the authors when not directly reported.

Results

A total of 314 studies were identified, from them, 23 met inclusion criteria as diagnostic studies for naturally occurringBRD. Quality of studies showed high risk of bias for case selection (70% of articles) and unclear risk of bias for index test (65%), reference standard (74%), and flow and timing (61%). There were high concerns regarding applicability for case selection (61% of studies) and reference standards used for definingBRD(48%). The concerns regarding index test application were low (83% of the studies). Only 4–8 studies could be included in the meta‐analysis for eachAPP. No pooled estimates or pooled accuracy measurements were performed due to the low number of studies and multiple differences between studies, including reference standard definitions.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

On the basis of these findings, it is not possible to make conclusions regarding the accuracy ofAPPforBRDdiagnosis. The reporting of accuracy ofAPPforBRDdetection is inconsistent among studies. Recommendations to improve capability for future meta‐analyses in this area include reporting studies on diagnostic tests following the Standard for the Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (STARD), as well as trying to standardizeBRDdefinition across future studies.
Effect of Oyster Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus, Extract on Hemato‐Immunological Parameters of Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Uluköy Gülşen , Baba Esİn , Öntaş Canan
Published: June 2016

The current study investigated the effects of oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus, extract on immunological and hematological parameters of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. The fish were fed diets containing 0 (control), 1, and 2% supplementation of the oyster mushroom extract for 6 wk. Blood samples were collected weekly for the first 6 weeks. After 6 wk of feeding, the fish were challenged with Lactococcus garvieae and mortality was recorded. The results of this study showed that feeding rainbow trout an oyster mushroom extract–supplemented diet stimulated phagocytic activity of phagocytic cells, lysozyme activity, and myeloperoxidase activity in serum, but it did not significantly affect the total serum immunoglobulin level. At the same time, a significant increase was found in the number of neutrophils, monocytes, and total white blood cells. Fish fed the diet supplemented with oyster mushroom extract showed reduced mortalities following L. garvieae infection compared with controls. These results show that supplementation of fish diets with oyster mushroom extract at 1 and 2% concentrations significantly imrpoves hematological parameters and modulates the immune response against L. garvieae in rainbow trout.
Single Intravascular and Oral Dose Pharmacokinetics of Mebendazole in Blunt Snout Bream, Megalobrama amblycephala
Authors: Xu Ning , Gong Binbin , Dong Jing , Yang Yibin , Ai Xiaohui
Published: June 2016

Mebendazole (MBZ) is a broad‐spectrum benzimidazole methylcarbamate anthelmintic used widely in animal husbandry and aquaculture. However, there is no information available on the pharmacokinetic behavior of MBZ in blunt snout bream, Megalobrama amblycephala. In this study, pharmacokinetic parameters of MBZ were estimated in blunt snout bream after intravascular (3 mg/kg body weight [BW]) and oral (20 mg/kg BW) administration. The analyses of plasma samples were performed using ultra performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector. After intravascular administration, plasma concentration–time curves were best described by a two‐compartment open model. The distribution half‐life (t1/2α), elimination half‐life (t1/2β), and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) of blunt snout bream were 0.1 h, 27.9 h, and 56666.0 h.µg/L, respectively. After oral administration, a one‐compartment open model with first‐order absorption best fit the plasma data. The absorption half‐life (t1/2Ka), elimination half‐life (t1/2Ke), peak concentration (Cmax), time‐to‐peak concentration (Tmax), and AUC of blunt snout bream were estimated to be 1.9 h, 34.6 h, 918.1 µg/L, 8.4 h, and 54201.4 h.µg/L, respectively. The oral bioavailability (F) was 14.3 %. The pharmacokinetics of MBZ in blunt snout bream displayed low bioavailability, relatively rapid absorption, and relatively rapid elimination.
Effects of Dietary Inclusion of Chlorella vulgaris on Growth, Blood Biochemical Parameters, and Antioxidant Enzyme Activity in Olive Flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Rahimnejad Samad , Lee Sang‐Min , Park Heum‐Gi , Choi Jin
Published: June 2016

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary inclusion of defatted Chlorella on growth performance, body composition, blood biochemistry, and antioxidant enzyme activity in olive flounder. Four isonitrogenous (51% crude protein) diets were formulated to contain 0 (control), 5, 10, or 15% Chlorella meal (CM) (designated as Con, CM5, CM10, and CM15, respectively) and fed to triplicate groups of fish (104.4 g) to apparent satiation twice daily for 8 wk. At the end of the feeding trial, significant enhancement (P < 0.05) in growth performance was obtained at over 10% CM compared to fish fed the control diet. No significant changes in dorsal muscle and liver proximate composition were found following CM administration. The groups fed CM‐containing diets revealed significantly lower plasma cholesterol concentration than those fed the control diet. Dietary CM affected antioxidant enzyme activity; significantly higher plasma catalase activity was found in fish fed ≥10% CM and total antioxidant capacity increased in CM5 and CM10 groups compared to the control. However, plasma glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities were not significantly influenced by dietary CM. Also, significant enhancement in 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl‐hydrazyl radical scavenging activity was found in dorsal muscle of fish fed CM15 diet compared to the control. The findings in this study showed that dietary inclusion of 10–15% CM can enhance growth performance and affect antioxidant enzyme activity and lipid metabolism in olive flounder.
The Cyclical Volatility of Equilibrium Unemployment and Vacancies: Evidence From Italy
Authors: Cardullo Gabriele , Guerrazzi Marco
Published: June 2016

In this study, we explore the fluctuations of unemployment and vacancies in the Italian labour market over the last 20 years. Relying on the available sources of data for unfilled job openings, we find that even in Italy, similarly to other developed countries, there is a clean evidence of the unemployment volatility puzzle. In other words, we empirically assess that the tightness indicator is significantly more volatile than productivity over the whole period. In addition, on the theoretical ground, we show that a matching model with segmented labour markets and on‐the‐job search has the potential to provide a rationale for this pattern.
Reduced impact of renal failure on the outcome of patients with alcoholic liver disease undergoing liver transplantation
Authors: Cheong Jaeyoun , Galanko Joseph A. , Arora Sumant , Cabezas Joaquin , Ndugga Nambi J. , Lucey Michael R. , Hayashi Paul H. , Barritt Alfred Sidney , Bataller Ramon
Published: June 2016

Background & Aims

Pretransplant renal failure is commonly reported to be a poor prognostic indicator affecting survival after liver transplantation (LT). However, whether the impact of renal failure on patient outcome varies according to the aetiology of the underlying liver disease is largely unknown.

Methods

We investigated the association between renal failure at the time of LT and patient outcome in patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) (n = 6920), non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (n = 2956) and hepatitis C (HCV) (n = 14 922) using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database between February 2002 and December 2013. A total of 24 798 transplant recipients were included.

Results

The presence of renal failure was more frequently seen in patients with ALD (23.95%) and NASH (23.27%) compared to patients with HCV (19.38%) (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, renal failure was an independent predictor of poor survival. Renal failure showed detrimental effect on patient survival in the overall series (HR = 1.466, P < 0.0001). Importantly, the impact of renal failure was less marked in patients with ALD (HR = 1.31, P < 0.0001) than in patients with NASH (HR = 1.73, P < 0.0001) or HCV (HR = 1.52, P < 0.0001). Despite a higher model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score at the time of LT, ALD patients with renal failure had better long‐term prognosis than non‐ALD patients.

Conclusions

Renal failure at the time of LT conferred a lower patient and graft survival post‐LT. However, renal failure has less impact on the outcome of patients with ALD than that of patients with non‐alcoholic liver disease after LT.
High‐throughput estimation of incident light, light interception and radiation‐use efficiency of thousands of plants in a phenotyping platform
Authors: Cabrera‐Bosquet Llorenç , Fournier Christian , Brichet Nicolas , Welcker Claude , Suard Benoît , Tardieu François
Published: June 2016

Light interception and radiation‐use efficiency (RUE) are essential components of plant performance. Their genetic dissections require novel high‐throughput phenotyping methods.

We have developed a suite of methods to evaluate the spatial distribution of incident light, as experienced by hundreds of plants in a glasshouse, by simulating sunbeam trajectories through glasshouse structures every day of the year; the amount of light intercepted by maize (Zea mays) plants via a functional–structural model using three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructions of each plant placed in a virtual scene reproducing the canopy in the glasshouse; and RUE, as the ratio of plant biomass to intercepted light.

The spatial variation of direct and diffuse incident light in the glasshouse (up to 24%) was correctly predicted at the single‐plant scale. Light interception largely varied between maize lines that differed in leaf angles (nearly stable between experiments) and area (highly variable between experiments). Estimated RUEs varied between maize lines, but were similar in two experiments with contrasting incident light. They closely correlated with measured gas exchanges.

The methods proposed here identified reproducible traits that might be used in further field studies, thereby opening up the way for large‐scale genetic analyses of the components of plant performance.
A new science of happiness: the paradox of pleasure
Authors: Paulson Steve , Azzarelli Kim K. , McMahon Darrin M. , Schwartz Barry
Published: June 2016

The pursuit of happiness is enshrined in the founding document of our nation as a fundamental and inalienable right. Yet nowhere is the method of this pursuit clearly defined. What, exactly, does it mean to be happy, and how can such happiness be sustained over the long term? Can happiness be accurately gauged or measured? How does the paradoxical relationship between happiness and pleasure shape our quest to lead the good life? And what does modern science have to tell us about this universal yet elusive pursuit? Steve Paulson, executive producer and host of To the Best of Our Knowledge, moderated a discussion that included attorney and author Kim Azzarelli, historian Darrin McMahon, and social psychologist Barry Schwartz, who joined forces to share their research and insight on happiness, pleasure, and the coveted good life.
An evidence‐update on the prospective relationship between childhood sedentary behaviour and biomedical health indicators: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: van Ekris E. , Altenburg T. M. , Singh A. S. , Proper K. I. , Heymans M. W. , Chinapaw M. J. M.
Published: June 2016

Evidence for adverse health effects of excessive sedentary behaviour in children is predominantly based on cross‐sectional studies, measuring TV viewing as proxy for sedentary behaviour. This systematic review and meta‐analysis summarizes the evidence on the prospective relationship between childhood sedentary behaviour and biomedical health indicators, overall and stratified by type of sedentary behaviour (TV viewing, computer use/games, screen time and objective sedentary time).

PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Cochrane were systematically searched till January 2015. Methodological quality of all included studies was scored, and a best evidence synthesis was applied.

We included 109 studies of which 19 were of high quality. We found moderate‐to‐strong evidence for a relationship of overall sedentary time with some anthropometrics (overweight/obesity, weight‐for‐height), one cardiometabolic biomarker (HDL‐cholesterol) and some fitness indicators (fitness, being unfit). For other health indicators, we found no convincing evidence because of inconsistent or non‐significant findings. The evidence varied by type of sedentary behaviour. The meta‐analysis indicated that each additional baseline hour of TV viewing (β = 0.01, 95%CI = [−0.002; 0.02]) or computer use (β = 0.00, 95%CI = [−0.004; 0.01]) per day was not significantly related with BMI at follow‐up.

We conclude that the evidence for a prospective relationship between childhood sedentary behaviour and biomedical health is in general unconvincing.
Most stomatal closure in woody species under moderate drought can be explained by stomatal responses to leaf turgor
Authors: Rodriguez‐Dominguez Celia M. , Buckley Thomas N. , Egea Gregorio , de Cires Alfonso , Hernandez‐Santana Virginia , Martorell Sebastia , Diaz‐Espejo Antonio
Published: June 2016

Reduced stomatal conductance (gs) during soil drought in angiosperms may result from effects of leaf turgor on stomata and/or factors that do not directly depend on leaf turgor, including root‐derived abscisic acid (ABA) signals. To quantify the roles of leaf turgor‐mediated and leaf turgor‐independent mechanisms in gs decline during drought, we measured drought responses of gs and water relations in three woody species (almond, grapevine and olive) under a range of conditions designed to generate independent variation in leaf and root turgor, including diurnal variation in evaporative demand and changes in plant hydraulic conductance and leaf osmotic pressure. We then applied these data to a process‐based gs model and used a novel method to partition observed declines in gs during drought into contributions from each parameter in the model. Soil drought reduced gs by 63–84% across species, and the model reproduced these changes well (r2 = 0.91, P < 0.0001, n = 44) despite having only a single fitted parameter. Our analysis concluded that responses mediated by leaf turgor could explain over 87% of the observed decline in gs across species, adding to a growing body of evidence that challenges the root ABA‐centric model of stomatal responses to drought.
Contribution of gall microscopic structure to taxonomy of gallicolous aphids on Pistacia
Authors: Álvarez R. , Martinez J.‐J. I. , Muñoz‐Viveros A. L. , Molist P. , Abad‐González J. , Nieto Nafría J. M.
Published: June 2016

Aphids inducing galls on Pistacia plants belong to the tribe Fordini. According to the Heie & Wegierek classification, the genera are grouped into three subtribes. Previous microscopic studies showed that this taxonomy is not consistent with the histological characteristics of the galls.

In this paper, galls induced by Aplonerura lentisci, Asiphonella cynodonti, Forda riccobonii, Slavun wertheimae and Smynthurodes betae were analyzed for the first time, as well as nine other galls previously described.

Based on histological features three groups of galls can be establish: the first group comprises closed galls, induced by Baizongia pistaciae, Geoica utricularia, Rectinasus buxtoni and Slavun wertheimae; the second group includes two species of Geopemphigus (G. blackmani and G. torsus), and the third one is divided into two subgroups, the first comprises Aplonerura lentisci, Asiphonella cynodonti and Geopemphigus morral, and the second that includes Forda formicaria, F. marginata, F. riccobonii, Paracletus cimiciformis and Smynthurodes betae.

An identification key of species based on microscopic features of galls is presented.
Determinants of Exclusive Breast Feeding in sub‐Saharan Africa: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Yalçin Siddika Songül , Berde Anselm S. , Yalçin Suzan
Published: June 2016

Background

The study aimed to provide an overall picture of the general pattern of exclusive breast feeding (EBF) in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) by examining maternal sociodemographic, antenatal and postnatal factors associated with EBF in the region, as well as explore countries variations in EBF rates.

Methods

We utilised cross‐sectional data from the Demographic Health Surveys in 27 SSA countries. Our study sample included 25 084 infants under 6 months of age. The key outcome variable was EBF in the last 24 h. Due to the hierarchical structure of the data, a multilevel logistic regression model was used to explore factors associated with EBF.

Results

The overall prevalence of EBF in SSA was 36.0%, the prevalence was highest in Rwanda and lowest in Gabon. In the multilevel regression model, factors that were associated with increased likelihood of EBF included secondary and above maternal education, mothers within the ages of 25–34 years, rural residence, richer household wealth quantile, 4+ antenatal care visit, delivering in a health facility, singleton births, female infants, early initiation of breast feeding (EIBF), and younger infants. However, countries with higher gross national income per capita had lower EBF rates.

Conclusions

To achieve a substantial increase in EBF rates in SSA, breast‐feeding interventions and policies should target all women but with more emphasis to mothers with younger age, low educational status, urban residence, poor status, multiple births, and male infants. In addition, there is a need to promote antenatal care utilisation, hospital deliveries, and EIBF.
Seasonal and Ageing‐Depending Changes of Aquaporins 1 and 9 Expression in the Genital Tract of Buffalo Bulls (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Arrighi S. , Bosi G. , Accogli G. , Desantis S.
Published: June 2016

Content

The presence of Aquaporins 1 (AQP1) and 9 (AQP9), integral membrane water channels that facilitate rapid passive movement of water and solutes, was immunohistochemically detected in the excurrent ducts collected from sexually mature buffalo bulls of proven fertility during the mating (late autumn–winter) and non‐mating (late spring to the beginning of autumn) seasons. Furthermore, the research was performed also on the epididymal cauda of a senile buffalo bull with inactive testis. Aquaporins 1 and 9 were immunolocalized at distinct levels. In the efferent ducts, AQP1 immunoreactivity was strongly evidenced at the apical surface of the non‐ciliated cells and weakly along the basal membrane of the epithelial cells. The latter reactivity disappeared during the non‐mating season. No AQP1 immunoreactivity was detected in the epithelium of epididymis and vas deferens, whereas AQP1 was expressed in the smooth muscle layer of the vas deferens. Aquaporin 1 was present in the blood vessels and in small nerve bundles all along the genital tract. The supranuclear zone of the epididymal principal cells was AQP9 immunoreactive, limited to the corpus and cauda regions, and vas deferens. The samples collected in the two reproductive seasons showed a weaker AQP9 immunoreactivity during the non‐mating season. A typical AQP9 immunoreactivity was noticed in the old buffalo examined. The tested AQP molecules showed a different expression pattern in comparison with laboratory mammals, primates, equine, dog and cat. In addition, seasonal differences were noticed which are possibly useful in regard to the comprehension of the morphophysiology of reproduction in the bubaline species, which are still a matter of debate.
Toward quantitative dryland restoration models
Authors: James Jeremy J. , Carrick Peter J.
Published: June 2016

Developing solutions to restore degraded drylands is one of the largest research challenges of our time. If we are to meet even a fraction of the restoration goals outlined in numerous international programs, we need to find ways to catalyze systematic knowledge development across disciplines that generate cost‐effective, repeatable, and scalable solutions for our dryland restoration needs. Ecological models are fundamental to this effort and in this opinion article, we describe the opportunities for building a conceptual understanding of dryland ecosystem function to create realistic systems models to improve seedling establishment in restoration. We do this by first discussing trade‐offs among different modeling approaches and then discussing specific recent efforts to develop a systems model for seed enablement for sagebrush steppes systems in the Western United States. We conclude by outlining broader opportunities for integrating systems models to address related dryland restoration challenges and emphasizing the potential complementary aspects that conceptual and systems models may represent in our global efforts to mitigate dryland degradation. As outlined in this special issue, creation of practical solutions will require careful coordination among diverse disciplines. Systems models have been widely used to transcend disciplines to tackle many issues in related fields such as conservation biology and global climate change and should be helpful in making progress toward our dryland restoration goals over the coming decades.
The Large‐Time Solution of Burgers' Equation with Time‐ Dependent Coefficients. II. Algebraic Coefficients
Authors: Sulaiman F. B. Ali , Leach J. A. , Needham D. J.
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we consider an initial‐value problem for Burgers' equation with variable coefficients
urn:x-wiley:00222526:media:sapm12130:sapm12130-math-0001where x and t represent dimensionless distance and time, respectively, while , are given continuous functions of t ( > 0). In particular, we consider the case when the initial data has algebraic decay as , with as and as . The constant states and are problem parameters. We focus attention on the case when (with ) and . The method of matched asymptotic coordinate expansions is used to obtain the large‐t asymptotic structure of the solution to the initial‐value problem over all parameter values.
Solitary Waves and N‐Particle Algorithms for a Class of Euler–Poincaré Equations
Authors: Camassa Roberto , Kuang Dongyang , Lee Long
Published: June 2016

We study a class of partial differential equations (PDEs) in the family of the so‐called Euler–Poincaré differential systems, with the aim of developing a foundation for numerical algorithms of their solutions. This requires particular attention to the mathematical properties of this system when the associated class of elliptic operators possesses nonsmooth kernels. By casting the system in its Lagrangian (or characteristics) form, we first formulate a particle system algorithm in free space with homogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions for the evolving fields. We next examine the deformation of the system when nonhomogeneous “constant stream” boundary conditions are assumed. We show how this simple change at the boundary deeply affects the nature of the evolution, from hyperbolic‐like to dispersive with a nontrivial dispersion relation, and examine the potentially regularizing properties of singular kernels offered by this deformation. From the particle algorithm viewpoint, kernel singularities affect the existence and uniqueness of solutions to the corresponding ordinary differential equations systems. We illustrate this with the case when the operator kernel assumes a conical shape over the spatial variables, and examine in detail two‐particle dynamics under the resulting lack of Lipschitz continuity. Curiously, we find that for the conically shaped kernels the motion of the related two‐dimensional waves can become completely integrable under appropriate initial data. This reduction projects the two‐dimensional system to the one‐dimensional completely integrable Shallow‐Water equation [1], while retaining the full dependence on two spatial dimensions for the single channel solutions. Finally, by comparing with an operator‐splitting pseudospectral method we illustrate the performance of the particle algorithms with respect to their Eulerian counterpart for this class of nonsmooth kernels.
How antigen specificity directs regulatory T‐cell function: self, foreign and engineered specificity
Authors: Hoeppli R. E. , MacDonald K. G. , Levings M. K. , Cook L.
Published: June 2016

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a suppressive subset of T cells that have important roles in maintaining self‐tolerance and preventing immunopathology. The T‐cell receptor (TCR) and its antigen specificity play a dominant role in the differentiation of cells to a Treg fate, either in the thymus or in the periphery. This review focuses on the effects of the TCR and its antigen specificity on Treg biology. The role of Tregs with specificity for self‐antigen has primarily been studied in the context of autoimmune disease, although recent studies have focused on their role in steady‐state conditions. The role of Tregs that are specific for pathogens, dietary antigens and allergens is much less studied, although recent data suggest a significant and previously underappreciated role for Tregs during memory responses to a wide range of foreign antigens. The development of TCR‐ or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐transduced T cells means we are now able to engineer Tregs with disease‐relevant antigen specificities, paving the way for ensuring specificity with Treg‐based therapies. Understanding the role that antigens play in driving the generation and function of Tregs is critical for defining the pathophysiology of many immune‐mediated diseases, and developing new therapeutic interventions.
A reconsideration of the status of English in the Netherlands within the Kachruvian Three Circles model
Authors: GERRITSEN MARINEL , VAN MEURS FRANK , PLANKEN BRIGITTE , KORZILIUS HUBERT
Published: June 2016

The English used in the Netherlands, a European Union country, is classified by many linguists as an ESL variety, or, within Kachru's (1985) Three Circles model, as an Outer Circle variety, or as being between an Outer and an Expanding Circle variety. This paper investigates the status of English in the Netherlands through a systematic application of the six criteria used by Kachru (1985) to classify the position of English in a country. The study is based on recent quantitative and qualitative data and shows that English in the Netherlands should be classified as an Expanding Circle variety.
Regeneration of hair and other skin appendages: A microenvironment‐centric view
Authors: Huang Chenyu , Du Yanan , Nabzdyk Christoph S. , Ogawa Rei , Koyama Taro , Orgill Dennis P. , Fu Xiaobing
Published: June 2016

Advances in skin regeneration have resulted in techniques and products that have allowed regeneration of both the dermis and epidermis. Yet complete skin regeneration requires the adnexal skin structures. Thus it is crucial to understand the regenerative potential of hair follicles where genetic, nutritional, and hormonal influences have important effects and are critical for skin regeneration. The follicular stem cell niche serves as an anatomical compartment, a structural unit, a functional integrator, and a dynamic regulator necessary to sustain internal homeostasis and respond to outside stimuli. In particular, mechanics such as pressure, compression, friction, traction, stretch, shear, and mechanical wounding can influence hair loss or growth. Relevant niche signaling pathways such as Wnt, bone morphogenetic protein, fibroblast growth factor, Shh, and Notch may yield potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
Cerebral oxidative metabolism is decreased with extreme apnoea in humans; impact of hypercapnia
Authors: Bain Anthony R. , Ainslie Philip N. , Hoiland Ryan L. , Barak Otto F. , Cavar Marija , Drvis Ivan , Stembridge Mike , MacLeod Douglas M. , Bailey Damian M. , Dujic Zeljko , MacLeod David B.
Published: June 2016

Key points

The present study describes the cerebral oxidative and non‐oxidative metabolism in man during a prolonged apnoea (ranging from 3 min 36 s to 7 min 26 s) that generates extremely low levels of blood oxygen and high levels of carbon dioxide.

The cerebral oxidative metabolism, measured from the product of cerebral blood flow and the radial artery‐jugular venous oxygen content difference, was reduced by ∼29% at the termination of apnoea, although there was no change in the non‐oxidative metabolism.

A subset study with mild and severe hypercapnic breathing at the same level of hypoxia suggests that hypercapnia can partly explain the cerebral metabolic reduction near the apnoea breakpoint.

A hypercapnia‐induced oxygen‐conserving response may protect the brain against severe oxygen deprivation associated with prolonged apnoea.

Prolonged apnoea in humans is reflected in progressive hypoxaemia and hypercapnia. In the present study, we explore the cerebral metabolic responses under extreme hypoxia and hypercapnia associated with prolonged apnoea. We hypothesized that the cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen (CMRO2) will be reduced near the termination of apnoea, attributed in part to the hypercapnia. Fourteen elite apnoea‐divers performed a maximal apnoea (range 3 min 36 s to 7 min 26 s) under dry laboratory conditions. In a subset study with the same divers, the impact of hypercapnia on cerebral metabolism was determined using varying levels of hypercapnic breathing, against the background of similar hypoxia. In both studies, the CMRO2 was calculated from the product of cerebral blood flow (ultrasound) and the radial artery‐internal jugular venous oxygen content difference. Non‐oxidative cerebral metabolism was calculated from the ratio of oxygen and carbohydrate (lactate and glucose) metabolism. The CMRO2 was reduced by ∼29% (P < 0.01, Cohen's d = 1.18) near the termination of apnoea compared to baseline, although non‐oxidative metabolism remained unaltered. In the subset study, in similar backgrounds of hypoxia (arterial O2 tension: ∼38.4 mmHg), severe hypercapnia (arterial CO2 tension: ∼58.7 mmHg), but not mild‐hypercapnia (arterial CO2 tension: ∼46.3 mmHg), depressed the CMRO2 (∼17%, P = 0.04, Cohen's d = 0.87). Similarly to the apnoea, there was no change in the non‐oxidative metabolism. These data indicate that hypercapnia can partly explain the reduction in CMRO2 near the apnoea breakpoint. This hypercapnic‐induced oxygen conservation may protect the brain against severe hypoxaemia associated with prolonged apnoea.
A novel set‐up for the ex vivo analysis of mechanical properties of mouse aortic segments stretched at physiological pressure and frequency
Authors: Leloup Arthur J. A. , Van Hove Cor E. , Kurdi Ammar , De Moudt Sofie , Martinet Wim , De Meyer Guido R. Y. , Schrijvers Dorien M. , De Keulenaer Gilles W. , Fransen Paul
Published: June 2016

Key points

Cyclic stretch is known to alter intracellular pathways involved in vessel tone regulation.

We developed a novel set‐up that allows straightforward characterization of the biomechanical properties of the mouse aorta while stretched at a physiological heart rate (600 beats min–1).

Active vessel tone was shown to have surprisingly large effects on isobaric stiffness.

The effect of structural vessel wall alterations was confirmed using a genetic mouse model.

This set‐up will contribute to a better understanding of how active vessel wall components and mechanical stimuli such as stretch frequency and amplitude regulate aortic mechanics.

Cyclic stretch is a major contributor to vascular function. However, isolated mouse aortas are frequently studied at low stretch frequency or even in isometric conditions. Pacing experiments in rodents and humans show that arterial compliance is stretch frequency dependent. The Rodent Oscillatory Tension Set‐up to study Arterial Compliance is an in‐house developed organ bath set‐up that clamps aortic segments to imposed preloads at physiological rates up to 600 beats min–1. The technique enables us to derive pressure–diameter loops and assess biomechanical properties of the segment. To validate the applicability of this set‐up we aimed to confirm the effects of distension pressure and vascular smooth muscle tone on arterial stiffness. At physiological stretch frequency (10 Hz), the Peterson modulus (EP; 293 (10) mmHg) for wild‐type mouse aorta increased 22% upon a rise in pressure from 80–120 mmHg to 100–140 mmHg, while, at normal pressure, EP increased 80% upon maximal contraction of the vascular smooth muscle cells. We further validated the method using a mouse model with a mutation in the fibrillin‐1 gene and an endothelial nitric oxide synthase knock‐out model. Both models are known to have increased arterial stiffness, and this was confirmed using the set‐up. To our knowledge, this is the first set‐up that facilitates the study of biomechanical properties of mouse aortic segments at physiological stretch frequency and pressure. We believe that this set‐up can contribute to a better understanding of how cyclic stretch frequency, amplitude and active vessel wall components influence arterial stiffening.
A Comparative Study of Flow Boiling in a Microchannel With Piranha Pin Fins
Authors: Yu X. , Woodcock C. , Wang Y. , Plawsky J. , Peles Y.
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we report on the recent development of an advanced microscale heat sink, termed as piranha pin fin (PPF). A 200 μm deep microchannel embedded with PPFs was fabricated and tested. Fluid flow and heat transfer performance were evaluated with HFE7000 as the working fluid. The surface temperature, pressure drop, heat transfer coefficient, and critical heat flux (CHF) conditions were experimentally obtained and discussed. A 676 W/cm2 CHF was achieved based on the heater area and at an inlet mass flux of 2460 kg/m2 s. Microchannels with different PPF configurations were investigated and studied for different flow conditions. It was found that a microchannel with PPFs can dissipate high heat fluxes with reasonable pressure drops. Flow conditions and PPF configuration played important roles for both fluid flow and heat transfer performances. These studies extended knowledge and provided useful reference for further PPF design in microchannel for flow boiling.
Tissue adaptation of regulatory and intraepithelial CD4
+
T cells controls gut inflammation
Authors: Sujino Tomohisa , London Mariya , Hoytema van Konijnenburg David P. , Rendon Tomiko , Buch Thorsten , Silva Hernandez M. , Lafaille Juan J. , Reis Bernardo S. , Mucida Daniel
Published: June 2016

Location matters for immunosuppression

In the gut, food antigens and resident microbes can trigger unwanted immune responses. Immunosuppressive cell types in the gut, such as regulatory T cells (T
regs
) and intraepithelial T lymphocytes (IELs), help to keep these responses at bay. Sujino et al. report that the specific anatomical location within the gut shapes the properties of the suppressive T cell populations that reside there (see the Perspective by Colonna and Cervantes-Barragan). Using mice, they find that T
regs
primarily reside in the lamina propria. T
regs
migrate to the intestinal epithelium, where they convert to IELs in a process that depends on the microbiota and the loss of a specific transcription factor. T
regs
and IELs also play distinct but complementary roles in suppressing intestinal inflammation.

Science
, this issue p.
1581
; see also p.
1515
Direct time-domain observation of attosecond final-state lifetimes in photoemission from solids
Authors: Tao Zhensheng , Chen Cong , Szilvási Tibor , Keller Mark , Mavrikakis Manos , Kapteyn Henry , Murnane Margaret
Published: June 2016

Clocking electrons as they exit a metal

Einstein earned his Nobel Prize for a quantum-mechanical explanation of electron ejection from metals by light. More than a century later, attosecond spectroscopy has let researchers explore that process in real time. Tao
et al.
used attosecond pulse trains to distinguish the dynamics of electrons excited from a nickel surface into discrete states versus free space (see the Perspective by Bovensiepen and Liggues). They succeeded in resolving a time delay of ∼200 as that was associated with excitation into unoccupied band states.

Science
, this issue p.
62
; see also p.
28
A Modular, Tn
7
-Based System for Making Bioluminescent or Fluorescent Salmonella and Escherichia coli Strains
Authors: Shivak Dylan J. , MacKenzie Keith D. , Watson Nikole L. , Pasternak J. Alex , Jones Brian D. , Wang Yejun , DeVinney Rebekah , Wilson Heather L. , Surette Michael G. , White Aaron P.
Published: June 2016

Our goal was to develop a robust tagging method that can be used to track bacterial strains
in vivo
. To address this challenge, we adapted two existing systems: a modular plasmid-based reporter system (pCS26) that has been used for high-throughput gene expression studies in
Salmonella
and
Escherichia coli
and Tn
7
transposition. We generated kanamycin- and chloramphenicol-resistant versions of pCS26 with bacterial luciferase, green fluorescent protein (GFP), and mCherry reporters under the control of σ
70
-dependent promoters to provide three different levels of constitutive expression. We improved upon the existing Tn
7
system by modifying the delivery vector to accept pCS26 constructs and moving the transposase genes from a nonreplicating helper plasmid into a temperature-sensitive plasmid that can be conditionally maintained. This resulted in a 10- to 30-fold boost in transposase gene expression and transposition efficiencies of 10
−8
to 10
−10
in
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium and
E. coli
APEC O1, whereas the existing Tn
7
system yielded no successful transposition events. The new reporter strains displayed reproducible signaling in microwell plate assays, confocal microscopy, and
in vivo
animal infections. We have combined two flexible and complementary tools that can be used for a multitude of molecular biology applications within the
Enterobacteriaceae
. This system can accommodate new promoter-reporter combinations as they become available and can help to bridge the gap between modern, high-throughput technologies and classical molecular genetics.

IMPORTANCE
This article describes a flexible and efficient system for tagging bacterial strains. Using our modular plasmid system, a researcher can easily change the reporter type or the promoter driving expression and test the parameters of these new constructs
in vitro
. Selected constructs can then be stably integrated into the chromosomes of desired strains in two simple steps. We demonstrate the use of this system in
Salmonella
and
E. coli
, and we predict that it will be widely applicable to other bacterial strains within the
Enterobacteriaceae
. This technology will allow for improved
in vivo
analysis of bacterial pathogens.
Complete and Closed Genome Sequences of 10 Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Serovar Anatum Isolates from Human and Bovine Sources
Authors: Nguyen Scott V. , Harhay Dayna M. , Bono James L. , Smith Timothy P. L. , Fields Patricia I. , Dinsmore Blake A. , Santovenia Monica , Kelley Christy M. , Wang Rong , Bosilevac Joseph M. , Harhay Gregory P.
Published: June 2016

Salmonella enterica
is an important pathogen transmitted by numerous vectors. Genomic comparisons of
Salmonella
strains from disparate hosts have the potential to further our understanding of mechanisms underlying host specificities and virulence. Here, we present the closed genome and plasmid sequences of 10
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Anatum isolates from bovine and human sources.
Complete Genome Sequences of the
Potyvirus Sweet potato virus 2
from East Timor and Australia
Authors: Maina Solomon , Edwards Owain R. , de Almeida Luis , Ximenes Abel , Jones Roger A. C.
Published: June 2016

We present here the first complete genome sequences of
Sweet potato virus 2
(SPV2) from sweet potato in Australia and East Timor, and compare these with five complete SPV2 genome sequences from South Korea and one each from Spain and the United States. Both were closely related to SPV2 genomes from South Korea, Spain, and the United States.
Factors contributing to delayed diagnosis of cancer among Aboriginal people in Australia: a qualitative study
Authors: Shahid Shaouli , Teng Tiew-Hwa Katherine , Bessarab Dawn , Aoun Samar , Baxi Siddhartha , Thompson Sandra C
Published: June 2016

Background/objectives

Delayed presentation of symptomatic cancer is associated with poorer survival. Aboriginal patients with cancer have higher rates of distant metastases at diagnosis compared with non-Aboriginal Australians. This paper examined factors contributing to delayed diagnosis of cancer among Aboriginal Australians from patient and service providers' perspectives.

Methods

In-depth, open-ended interviews were conducted in two stages (2006–2007 and 2011). Inductive thematic analysis was assisted by use of NVivo looking around delays in presentation, diagnosis and referral for cancer.

Participants

Aboriginal patients with cancer/family members (n=30) and health service providers (n=62) were recruited from metropolitan Perth and six rural/remote regions of Western Australia.

Results

Three broad themes of factors were identified: (1) Contextual factors such as intergenerational impact of colonisation and racism and socioeconomic deprivation have negatively impacted on Aboriginal Australians' trust of the healthcare professionals; (2) health service-related factors included low accessibility to health services, long waiting periods, inadequate numbers of Aboriginal professionals and high staff turnover; (3) patient appraisal of symptoms and decision-making, fear of cancer and denial of symptoms were key reasons patients procrastinated in seeking help. Elements of shame, embarrassment, shyness of seeing the doctor, psychological ‘fear of the whole health system’, attachment to the land and ‘fear of leaving home’ for cancer treatment in metropolitan cities were other deterrents for Aboriginal people. Manifestation of masculinity and the belief that ‘health is women's domain’ emerged as a reason why Aboriginal men were reluctant to receive health checks.

Conclusions

Solutions to improved Aboriginal cancer outcomes include focusing on the primary care sector encouraging general practitioners to be proactive to suspicion of symptoms with appropriate investigations to facilitate earlier diagnosis and the need to improve Aboriginal health literacy regarding cancer. Access to health services remains a critical problem affecting timely diagnosis.
Risk factors for dermatitis in submariners during a submerged patrol: an observational cohort study
Authors: Flaxman Amy , Allen Elizabeth , Lindemann Claudia , Yamaguchi Yuko , O'Shea Matthew K , Fallowfield Joanne L , Lindsay Michael , Gunner Frances , Knox Kyle , Wyllie David H
Published: June 2016

Objective

The aim of this pilot study was to determine risk factors, includingStaphylococcus aureusnasal carriage, for dermatitis in submariners during a submarine patrol.

Participants and methods

36 submariners undertaking a submerged 6-week patrol participated in the study. Severity of dermatitis and its impact was assessed using visual analogue scales and questionnaires at baseline and weekly throughout the patrol.S. aureuscarriage levels in submariners were determined by nasal swabbing at baseline and shortly before disembarking the submarine. Occurrence of any skin or soft tissue infections (SSTI) were reported to the medical officer and swabs of the area were taken for subsequent analysis.

Results

S. aureuscarriers were significantly more likely than non-carriers to have previously received treatment for a cutaneous abscess (39% vs 5%, OR=13 (95% CI 1.3 to 130)) with a trend to being submariners longer (p=0.051). Skin scores at baseline and on patrol were not significantly associated with carriage status. Higher dermatitis scores were observed in those who had been submariners longer (p=0.045). Smoking and allergies were not found to be linked to carriage status or skin health score in this cohort.

Conclusions

This small pilot study investigatesS. aureuscarriage status and skin health in submariners. Length of submarine service but notS. aureuscarriage was identified as a risk factor for worsening skin health in this small cohort during a 6-week patrol. This does not supportS. aureusdecolonisation to improve skin health in this population. Further investigation into causes of dermatitis in submariners is required. This data supports a better understanding of the potential impact of exposure to environmental factors that could affect skin health in submariners.
How do women trade-off benefits and risks in chemotherapy treatment decisions based on gene expression profiling for early-stage breast cancer? A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Marshall Deborah A , Deal Ken , Bombard Yvonne , Leighl Natasha , MacDonald Karen V , Trudeau Maureen
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Gene expression profiling (GEP) of tumours informs baseline risk prediction, potentially affecting adjuvant chemotherapy decisions for women with early-stage breast cancer. Since only 15% will experience a recurrence, concerns have been raised about potential harms from overtreatment and high GEP costs in publicly funded healthcare systems. We aimed to estimate preferences and personal utility of GEP testing information and benefit–risk trade-offs in chemotherapy treatment decisions.

Design, setting and intervention

Based on literature review and findings from our qualitative research (focus groups, interviews with patients with breast cancer and medical oncologists), we developed a discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey and administered it via an internet panel. The DCE included 12 choice tasks with 5 attributes and 3 alternatives considering orthogonality, D-efficiency and level balance.

Participants

The DCE survey was administered to 1004 Canadian women from the general population.

Main outcome measures

Preferences were analysed using conditional logit and hierarchical Bayes and evaluated for goodness of fit. We conducted simulation analyses for alternative scenarios.

Results

GEP test score indicating likely benefit from chemotherapy was the most important attribute. Doctor's clinical estimate of the risk of cancer returning, trust in your cancer doctor and side effects of chemotherapy (temporary and permanent) were relatively less important but showed significant differences among levels. In the scenario analyses, 78% were likely to choose chemotherapy in a high-risk scenario, 55% in a moderate-risk scenario and 33% in a low-risk scenario, with the other attributes held constant. A high GEP score was more important in influencing the choice of chemotherapy for those at intermediate clinical risk.

Conclusions

GEP testing information influences chemotherapy treatment decisions in early-stage breast cancer and varies depending on clinical risk. Clinicians should be aware of these differences and tailor the use of GEP testing accordingly.