bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning from model errors: Can land use, edaphic and very high‐resolution topo‐climatic factors improve macroecological models of mountain grasslands?
Authors: Baudraz Maude E. A. , Pradervand Jean‐Nicolas , Beauverd Mélanie , Buri Aline , Guisan Antoine , Vittoz Pascal
Published: November 2017

Aim

Assess the potential of new predictors (land use, edaphic factors and high‐resolution (HR) topographic and climatic variables, i.e. topo‐climatic) to improve the prediction of plant community functional traits (specific leaf area, vegetative height and seed mass) and species richness in models of mountain grasslands.

Location

The western Swiss Alps.

Methods

Using 912 grassland plots, we constructed predictive models for community‐weighted means of plant traits and species richness using HR (25 m) topo‐climatic predictors traditionally used in previous modelling studies in this area. In addition, 78 new plots were sampled for evaluation and error assessment in four narrower sets of homogenous conditions based on predictions by the topo‐climatic models within two elevational belts (montane and alpine). New, finer‐scale predictors were generated from direct field measurements or very high‐resolution (VHR; 5 m) numerical data. We then used multimodel inference to test the capacity of these finer predictors to explain part of the residual variance in the initial topo‐climatic models.

Results

We showed that the finer‐scale predictors explained up to 44% of the residual variance in the classical topo‐climatic models. The VHR topographic position, soil C/N ratio and pH performed notably well in our analysis. Land use (farming intensity) was highlighted as potentially important in montane grasslands, but improvements were only significant for species richness predictions.

Main conclusions

Compared with previously used topo‐climatic models, the new, finer‐scale predictors significantly improved the prediction of all traits and species richness in alpine plant communities and that of specific leaf area and richness in montane grasslands. The differences in the importance of the predictors, dependent on both trait and position along the elevational gradient, highlight the different factors that shape the distribution of species and communities along elevational gradients.
Dihydromyricetin enhances glucose uptake by inhibition of MEK/ERK pathway and consequent down‐regulation of phosphorylation of PPARγ in 3T3‐L1 cells
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhou Min , Lang Hedong , Zhou Yong , Mi Mantian
Published: November 2017

Accumulating evidence suggests that inhibition of mitogen‐activated protein kinase signalling can reduce phosphorylation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) at serine 273, which mitigates obesity‐associated insulin resistance and might be a promising treatment for type 2 diabetes. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is a flavonoid that has many beneficial pharmacological properties. In this study, mouse fibroblast 3T3‐L1 cells were used to investigate whether DHM alleviates insulin resistance by inhibiting PPARγ phosphorylation at serine 273 via the MEK/ERK pathway. 3T3‐L1 pre‐adipocytes were differentiated, and the effects of DHM on adipogenesis and glucose uptake in the resulting adipocytes were examined. DHM was found to dose dependently increase glucose uptake and decrease adipogenesis. Insulin resistance was then induced in adipocytes using dexamethasone, and DHM was shown to dose and time dependently promote glucose uptake in the dexamethasone‐treated adipocytes. DHM also inhibited phosphorylation of PPARγ and ERK. Inhibition of PPARγ activity with GW9662 potently blocked DHM‐induced glucose uptake and adiponectin secretion. Interestingly, DHM showed similar effects to PD98059, an inhibitor of the MEK/ERK pathway. DHM acted synergistically with PD98059 to improve glucose uptake and adiponectin secretion in dexamethasone‐treated adipocytes. In conclusion, our findings indicate that DHM improves glucose uptake in adipocytes by inhibiting ERK‐induced phosphorylation of PPARγ at serine 273.
miRNA in spinal muscular atrophy pathogenesis and therapy
Authors: Magri Francesca , Vanoli Fiammetta , Corti Stefania
Published: November 2017

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the selective death of lower motor neurons in the brain stem and spinal cord. SMA is caused by mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1), leading to the reduced expression of the full‐length SMN protein. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs that regulate post‐transcriptional gene expression. Recent findings have suggested an important role for miRNAs in the pathogenesis of motor neuron diseases, including SMA. Motor neuron‐specific miRNA dysregulation in SMA might be implicated in their selective vulnerability. In this study, we discuss recent findings regarding the consequences of SMN defects on miRNAs and their target mRNAs in motor neurons. Taken together, these data suggest that cell‐specific changes in miRNAs are not only involved in the SMA motor neuron phenotype but can also be used as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Bigger testes increase paternity in a simultaneous hermaphrodite, independently of the sperm competition level
Authors: Vellnow N. , Marie‐Orleach L. , Zadesenets K. S. , Schärer L.
Published: November 2017

Hermaphroditic animals face the fundamental evolutionary optimization problem of allocating their resources to their male vs. female reproductive function (e.g. testes and sperm vs. ovaries and eggs), and this optimal sex allocation can be affected by both pre‐ and post‐copulatory sexual selection. For example, local sperm competition (LSC) – the competition between related sperm for the fertilization of a partner's ova – occurs in small mating groups and can favour a female‐biased sex allocation, because, under LSC, investment into sperm production is predicted to show diminishing fitness returns. Here, we test whether higher testis investment increases an individual's paternity success under sperm competition, and whether the strength of this effect diminishes when LSC is stronger, as predicted by sex allocation theory. We created two subsets of individuals of the simultaneously hermaphroditic flatworm Macrostomum lignano – by sampling worms from either the highest or lowest quartile of the testis investment distribution – and estimated their paternity success in group sizes of either three (strong LSC) or eight individuals (weak LSC). Specifically, using transgenic focal individuals expressing a dominant green‐fluorescent protein marker, we showed that worms with high testis investment sired 22% more offspring relative to those with low investment, corroborating previous findings in M. lignano and other species. However, the strength of this effect was not significantly modulated by the experienced group size, contrasting theoretical expectations of more strongly diminishing fitness returns under strong LSC. We discuss the possible implications for the evolutionary maintenance of hermaphroditism in M. lignano.
Influence of body condition on the population dynamics of Atlantic salmon with consideration of the potential impact of sea lice
Authors: Susdorf R , Salama N K G , Lusseau D
Published: November 2017

Atlantic salmon Salmo salar is an iconic species of high conservation and economic importance. At sea, individuals typically are subject to sea lice infestation, which can have detrimental effects on their host. Over recent decades, the body condition and marine survival in NE Atlantic stocks have generally decreased, reflected in fewer adults returning to rivers, which is partly attributable to sea lice. We developed a deterministic stage‐structured population model to assess condition‐mediated population dynamics resulting in changing fecundity, age at sexual maturation and marine survival rate. The model is parameterized using data from the North Esk system, north‐east Scotland. Both constant and density‐dependent juvenile survival rates are considered. We show that even small sea lice‐mediated changes in mean body condition of MSW can cause substantial population declines, whereas 1SW condition is less influential. Density dependence alleviates the condition‐mediated population effect. The resilience of the population to demographic perturbations declines as adult condition is reduced. Indirect demographic changes in salmonid life‐history traits (e.g., body condition) are often considered unimportant for population trajectory. The model shows that Atlantic salmon population dynamics can be highly responsive to sea lice‐mediated effects on adult body condition, thus highlighting the importance of non‐lethal parasitic long‐term effects.
Histochemical and immunohistochemical characterization of rodlet cells in the intestine of two teleosts, Anguilla anguilla and Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Bosi G , DePasquale J A , Manera M , Castaldelli G , Giari L , Sayyaf Dezfuli B
Published: November 2017

Rodlet cells (RC) are characterized by a distinctive cell cortex and conspicuous inclusions named “rodlets.” These cells are particularly abundant and large in size in intestine of eels. Histochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural investigations were carried out on European eel Anguilla anguilla and Common carp Cyprinus carpio from Northern Italy. Eight biotinylated lectins were used to probe for specific carbohydrate residues in deparaffinized, hydrated intestinal sections of eel and carp. Five antibodies were tested on intestinal sections of both fish species: inducible nitric oxide synthase (i‐NOS), leu‐enkephalin, lysozyme, serotonin and tumour necrosis factor‐α. Lectin histochemistry revealed rodlet cells (RCs) of the eel intestine to react with two of the eight lectins tested, specifically Concanavalin A (ConA) and Sambucus Nigra Agglutinin (SNA). This contrasted to lectin staining of RCs in the intestine of common carp, where four of the eight lectins showed a positive reaction; Dolichos Biflorus Agglutinin (DBA), Wheat Germ Agglutinin (WGA), SNA and ConA. RCs in eel and carp intestine were immunoreactive with antibodies to lysozyme and i‐NOS. The occurrence of the inflammatory peptides lysozyme and i‐NOS in RCs of the eel and common carp poses in favour that these cells are involved in the mechanism of defence against pathogens.
Identification of factors contributing to successful self‐directed weight loss: a qualitative study
Authors: Rafiei N. , Gill T.
Published: November 2017

Background

Despite the number of weight management programmes and their wide promotion, most overweight and obese individuals tend to lose weight on their own. The present study aimed to understand the characteristics and strategies of those who successfully engage in self‐directed weight loss, which could empower other overweight and obese individuals with information and strategies to manage their weight on their own.

Methods

Men and women who had lost at least 5% of their body weight without direct interaction with professionals or weight management programmes were recruited. Demographic data were collected by questionnaire and participants' weight‐loss experiences were explored using semi‐ structured interviews to elicit in‐depth individual experiences and perspectives. Iterative thematic method data analysis was used to generate themes describing contributing factors to the success of self‐directed weight loss identified by participants.

Results

Most characteristics of those who successfully self‐managed their weight loss were in line with those reported by successful weight losers participating in professional‐led projects. However, strategies such as early embedding of new lifestyle behaviours into daily routine, the ability to learn from previous weight‐loss experiences, and not requiring social support were identified as distinctive factors that contributed to the success of self‐directed weight loss by participants of the present study.

Conclusions

Overweight or obese individuals with strong internal motivation, problem‐solving skills and self‐reliance are more likely to be successful at achieving self‐directed weight loss. The patients identified with these characteristics could be encouraged to self‐manage their weight‐loss process, leaving the places available in more resource‐intensive professional‐led programmes to those individuals unlikely to succeed on their own.
Linking Data Choices and Context Specificity in Life Cycle Assessment of Waste Treatment Technologies: A Landfill Case Study
Authors: Henriksen Trine , Astrup Thomas Fruergaard , Damgaard Anders
Published: November 2017

To generate meaningful results, life cycle assessments (LCAs) require accurate technology data that are consistent with the goal and scope of the analysis. While literature data are available for many products and processes, finding representative data for highly site‐specific technologies, such as waste treatment processes, remains a challenge. This study investigated representative life cycle inventory (LCI) modeling of waste treatment technologies in consideration of variations in technological level and climate. The objectives were to demonstrate the importance of representative LCI modeling as a function of the specificity of the study, and to illustrate the necessity of iteratively refining the goal and scope of the study as data are developed. A landfill case study was performed where 52 discrete landfill data sets were built and grouped to represent different technology options and geographical sites, potential impacts were calculated, and minimum/maximum (min‐max) intervals were generated for each group. The results showed decreasing min‐max intervals with increasing specificity of the scope of study, which indicates that compatibility between the scope of study and LCI model is critical. Hereby, this study quantitatively demonstrates the influence of representative modeling on LCA results. The results indicate that technology variations and site‐specific conditions (e.g., the influence of precipitation and cover permeability on landfill gas generation and collection) should be carefully addressed by a systematic analysis of the key process parameters. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the targeted waste treatment technologies is necessary to ensure that appropriate data choices are made within the boundaries of the defined scope of the study.
Comparative analysis of vestibular ecomorphology in birds
Authors: Benson Roger B. J. , Starmer‐Jones Ethan , Close Roger A. , Walsh Stig A.
Published: November 2017

The bony labyrinth of vertebrates houses the semicircular canals. These sense rotational accelerations of the head and play an essential role in gaze stabilisation during locomotion. The sizes and shapes of the semicircular canals have hypothesised relationships to agility and locomotory modes in many groups, including birds, and a burgeoning palaeontological literature seeks to make ecological interpretations from the morphology of the labyrinth in extinct species. Rigorous tests of form–function relationships for the vestibular system are required to support these interpretations. We test the hypothesis that the lengths, streamlines and angles between the semicircular canals are related to body size, wing kinematics and flying style in birds. To do this, we applied geometric morphometrics and multivariate phylogenetic comparative methods to a dataset of 64 three‐dimensional reconstructions of the endosseous labyrinth obtained using micro‐computed tomography scanning of bird crania. A strong relationship between centroid size of the semicircular canals and body size indicates that larger birds have longer semicircular canals compared with their evolutionary relatives. Wing kinematics related to manoeuvrability (and quantified using the brachial index) explain a small additional portion of the variance in labyrinth size. We also find strong evidence for allometric shape change in the semicircular canals of birds, indicating that major aspects of the shape of the avian labyrinth are determined by spatial constraints. The avian braincase accommodates a large brain, a large eye and large semicircular canals compared with other tetrapods. Negative allometry of these structures means that the restriction of space within the braincase is intense in small birds. This may explain our observation that the angles between planes of the semicircular canals of birds deviate more strongly from orthogonality than those of mammals, and especially from agile, gliding and flying mammals. Furthermore, we find little support for relationships between labyrinth shape and flying style or wing kinematics. Overall, our results suggest that the topological problem of fitting long semicircular canals into a spatially constrained braincase is more important in determining the shape of the avian labyrinth than the specifics of locomotory style or agility. Our results tentatively indicate a link between visual acuity and proportional size of the labyrinth among birds. This suggests that the large labyrinths of birds compared with other tetrapods may result from their generally high visual acuities, and not directly from their ability to fly. The endosseous labyrinths of extinct birds and their close dinosaurian relatives may allow broad inferences about flight or vision, but so far provide few specific insights into detailed aspects of locomotion.
New soft tissue filler derived from autologous keratin and fibroblast for neck wrinkles
Authors: Wang Yue , Wang Bingqing , Zhang Qingguo , Ma Jiguang
Published: November 2017

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of injection of autologous keratin gel and fibroblast for neck aging as soft tissue filler.

Materials and methods

Totally 30 volunteers received treatment of autologous keratin and fibroblast for neck wrinkles and 5 of them received hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment as control. Clinical features of the volunteers were collected at 1st, 3rd, 6th, 12th, and 24th months after treatment. The volunteers were independently assessed using Lemperle's methods at different time points.

Results

The neck wrinkles ameliorated observably and no severe complications were reported after treatment. The effect and maintain time of autologous keratin and fibroblast were better than HA control.

Conclusion

Autologous keratin and fibroblast as soft tissue filler is an effective treatment option for neck rejuvenation with long‐term efficacy for reversing of skin aging.
Effect of iron on the growth of Phaeodactylum tricornutum via photosynthesis
Authors: Zhao Peipei , Gu Wenhui , Huang Aiyou , Wu Songcui , Liu Changheng , Huan Li , Gao Shan , Xie Xiujun , Wang Guangce
Published: November 2017

Iron is a limiting factor that controls the phytoplankton biomass in the modern ocean, and iron fertilization of the ocean could lead to blooms dominated by diatoms. Thus, iron plays an important role in controlling the distribution of diatoms. In this study, we measured the growth rate and photosynthetic activity of the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum cultured under different iron concentrations and found that it grew more rapidly and had a much higher photosynthetic efficiency under higher iron concentrations. In order to explore the unique mechanism of the response of diatoms to iron, a proteomic analysis was carried out, and the results indicated that iron promotes the Calvin cycle of P. tricornutum. Diatoms can tolerate the pressure of iron limitation by replacing iron‐rich proteins with flavodoxin, and so on. Moreover, we found that the photosystem I (PSI) activity of iron‐limited algae that were treated by N’,N’,N’,N’‐tetramethyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (TMPD) was increased significantly. As TMPD plays the role of a cytochrome b6/f complex that transfers electrons from photosystem II to PSI, the cytochrome b6/f complex is the key to photosynthesis regulation. Iron could influence the growth of P. tricornutum by regulating its biosynthesis. All of the results suggest that iron might affect the growth of diatoms through the Calvin cycle and the cytochrome b6/f complex.
Effects of a short midday nap on habitual nappers’ alertness, mood and mental performance across cognitive domains
Authors: Ru Taotao , Chen Qingwei , You Jianing , Zhou Guofu
Published: November 2017

This study examines whether the benefits of a short midday nap on habitual nappers’ mental performance depend on the cognitive domain and the task difficulty. Eighteen healthy college students with the long‐term habit of a midday nap (13:00–14:00 hours) participated in a nap‐deprivation study. On two separate days with at least 3 days in between, participants either took a nap or remained awake, and were subsequently tested on a simple sustained attention task (Psychomotor Vigilance Test), two more complex attention tasks (Go/No‐Go and Flanker task) and one working memory task (2‐back). For each task, an easy and a difficult version were administered. The time course of subjective sleepiness and mood were also measured in both napping conditions. The results revealed that short midday nap deprivation significantly impaired participants’ performance on both the easy and difficult versions of the Psychomotor Vigilance Test task, as well as accuracy but not reaction speed in the Go/No‐Go task. Accuracy in the difficult version of the Flanker task and the 2‐back task was also lower in the no‐nap condition, while reaction speed in the 2‐back task but not the Flanker task was reduced without a nap in both the easy and difficult versions. Moreover, subjective sleepiness was significantly increased after nap deprivation, but moods remained unaffected in the no‐nap condition. These findings contribute to current research suggesting that effects of a midday nap on task performance depend on the cognitive domain as well as task difficulty. Our study highlights the importance of considering task characteristics to evaluate the benefits of a regular midday nap in practical working life.
Steady bipedal locomotion with a forward situated whole‐body centre of mass: the potential importance of temporally asymmetric ground reaction forces
Authors: Clemente C. J. , Bishop P. J. , Newman N. , Hocknull S. A.
Published: November 2017

Bipedalism has repeatedly evolved in many independent lineages throughout tetrapod history. Despite being widespread, the fundamental biomechanical factors involved in bipedalism remain unclear. This study experimentally investigated bipedalism in facultatively bipedal lizards and obligatorily bipedal birds to explore temporal asymmetry in the vertical component of the ground reaction force (Fz). Both lizards and birds showed significant temporal asymmetry – with higher vertical forces exerted earlier in the stance – as indicated by three different measures computed from force‐time profiles. This result parallels those reported previously for other bipedal animal groups that have a forward situated whole‐body centre of mass (COM), such as kangaroos and non‐human primates. Humans, in contrast, exhibit an orthograde posture with theCOMclose the hips, and show little temporal asymmetry inFz, particularly during walking. Across a wide range of quadrupedal animals, temporal asymmetry is quite variable. Collectively, these results suggest that an ‘early‐skewed’Fzmay be an important feature of steady bipedal locomotion when theCOMis forward of the hips, although an exact mechanism of cause‐and‐effect, if one exists, remains to be established. This finding has relevance for attempts at better understanding bipedal locomotion in extinct animals that likely had aCOMlocated forward of the hips, such as carnivorous dinosaurs.
Shaker‐related voltage‐gated K+ channel expression and vasomotor function in human coronary resistance arteries
Authors: Nishijima Yoshinori , Korishettar Ankush , Chabowski Dawid S. , Cao Sheng , Zheng Xiaodong , Gutterman David D. , Zhang David X.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

KV channels are important regulators of vascular tone, but the identity of specific KV channels involved and their regulation in disease remain less well understood. We determined the expression of KV1 channel subunits and their role in cAMP‐mediated dilation in coronary resistance arteries from subjects with and without CAD.

Methods

HCAs from patients with and without CAD were assessed for mRNA and protein expression of KV1 channel subunits with molecular techniques and for vasodilator response with isolated arterial myography.

Results

Assays of mRNA transcripts, membrane protein expression, and vascular cell‐specific localization revealed abundant expression of KV1.5 in vascular smooth muscle cells of non‐CAD HCAs. Isoproterenol and forskolin, two distinct cAMP‐mediated vasodilators, induced potent dilation of non‐CAD arterioles, which was inhibited by both the general KV blocker 4‐AP and the selective KV1.5 blocker DPO‐1. The cAMP‐mediated dilation was reduced in CAD and was accompanied by a loss of or reduced contribution of 4‐AP‐sensitive KV channels.

Conclusions

KV1.5, as a major 4‐AP‐sensitive KV1 channel expressed in coronary VSMCs, mediates cAMP‐mediated dilation in non‐CAD arterioles. The cAMP‐mediated dilation is reduced in CAD coronary arterioles, which is associated with impaired 4‐AP‐sensitive KV channel function.
Mosaic art in modern Israel and the construction of a sense of place
Authors: Shavit Ze'ev
Published: November 2017

The article deals with the construction of a narrative and sense of place among the Jewish immigrant‐settler society in 20th century Israel in the context of its efforts to establish a national collective identity on indigenous (i.e. authentic) foundations and with the symbolic struggle with the Palestinian national movement as its backdrop. The case study under discussion is the instalment in public spaces of mosaic decorations inspired by ancient Jewish mosaics unearthed in archaeological excavations. I argue that intentionally or unintentionally, these decorations functioned as agents in the construction of an authentic narrative and a sense of place by producing a link between the current and the ancient Jewish presence in the place. This practice went hand‐in‐hand with the hegemonic national dogma about the link between an ancient, allegedly glorious era of the Jewish people in Palestine, and the modern Zionist project.
Intersecting race, space, and place through community gardens
Authors: HITE EMILY BENTON , PEREZ DORIE , D'INGEO DALILA , BOSTON QASIMAH , MITCHELL MIAISHA
Published: November 2017

In this article, we examine the structure and meaning of community gardens in Florida's most cohesive and oldest African American community of Frenchtown in Tallahassee. Here, residents reclaim and transform empty spaces into places of engagement and empowerment, effectively resisting systemic racism. Using a mixed methods approach during a 5‐week NSF‐funded ethnographic field school with the Health Equity Alliance of Tallahassee, we counter the prevailing stigma of Frenchtown that perpetuates its continued marginalization. We argue that community gardens are expressions of social resistance. Through garden activities, residents transcend race, culture, income, and neighborhoods, while also promoting health, heritage, place‐making, and economic opportunities. Place is constituted by spatial politics in a cultural milieu, evident in the community's ability to intersect diverse institutional boundaries via gardens. This research contextualizes how a community‐based participatory research project successfully resists violent environments through spatial transformation.
Incidence and predictors of 30‐day postoperative readmission in children
Authors: Vo Daniel , Zurakowski David , Faraoni David
Published: November 2017

Background

Hospital readmissions are being used as a quality metric for hospital reimbursement without a clear understanding of the factors that contribute to readmission.

Objective

The objective of this study was to report the incidence of 30‐day postsurgical readmission in children, identify the predictors for readmission, and create an algorithm to identify high‐risk children.

Methods

Data from the 2012‐2014 Pediatric database of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program were analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistical regression analysis.

Results

Among 182 589 children included in the 2012‐2014 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric database, 4.8% (8815/182 589) experienced a readmission within 30 days. Four significant predictors were retained in the multivariable logistic regression model: American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status ≥ 3 (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.8‐2.0), presence of congenital heart disease (OR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.31‐2.11), inpatient status at time of surgery (OR: 3.5, 95% CI: 3.3‐3.7), and at least 1 postoperative complication (neurologic, renal, wound, cardiac, bleeding, or pulmonary) (OR: 3.14, 95% CI: 2.92‐3.34). The multivariable logistic regression model showed reasonably good discrimination in predicting 30‐day readmissions with receiver operating characteristic area under the curve of 0.747 (95% CI: 0.73‐0.75) and good calibration (Brier score: 0.044). We created a predictive algorithm of 30‐day readmission based on the 4 significant predictors.

Conclusion

Children with congenital heart disease, high American Society of Anesthesiologist physical class, inpatient status, and at least 1 postoperative complication of any kind are at high risk for postsurgical readmissions. We provide an algorithm for quantifying this risk with the goal of reducing the number of readmissions, improving the care of patients with complex chronic illnesses, and reducing hospital costs.
Insect cuticular melanins are distinctly different from those of mammalian epidermal melanins
Authors: Barek Hanine , Sugumaran Manickam , Ito Shosuke , Wakamatsu Kazumasa
Published: November 2017

Melanin from several insect samples was isolated and subjected to chemical degradation and HPLC analysis for melanin markers. Quantification of different melanin markers reveals that insect melanins are significantly different from that of the mammalian epidermal melanins. The eumelanin produced in mammals is derived from the oxidative polymerization of both 5,6‐dihydroxyindole and 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acids. The pheomelanin is formed by the oxidative polymerization of cysteinyldopa. Thus, dopa is the major precursor for both eumelanin and pheomelanin in mammals. But insect eumelanin appears to be mostly made from 5,6‐dihydroxyindole and originates from dopamine. More importantly, our study points out the wide spread occurrence of pheomelanin in many insect species. In addition, cysteinyldopamine and not cysteinyldopa is the major precursor for insect pheomelanin. Thus, both eumelanin and pheomelanin in insects differ from higher animals using dopamine and not dopa as the major precursor.
Vulvar swelling as the first presentation of Crohn's disease in children—A report of three cases
Authors: Ahad Tashmeeta , Riley Anna , Martindale Elizabeth , von Bremen Beate , Owen Caroline
Published: November 2017

Vulvar swelling is a rare manifestation of metastatic Crohn's disease in children. It often predates gastrointestinal symptoms and can be the first presentation of pediatric Crohn's disease. We report three cases of pediatric Crohn's disease presenting with vulvar swelling. We discuss this rare presentation and its treatment and highlight the importance of recognizing it so that prompt investigation and appropriate management can be initiated.
Prevalence of sun protection behaviors in Hispanic youth residing in a high ultraviolet light environment
Authors: Altieri Lisa , Miller Kimberly A. , Huh Jimi , Peng David H. , Unger Jennifer B. , Richardson Jean L. , Allen Martin W. , Cockburn Myles
Published: November 2017

Although rates of late‐stage melanoma are rising in Hispanics, particularly those living in high ultraviolet light environments, little is known about the prevalence of sun protective behaviors in Hispanic children. We analyzed baseline data including frequency of sunburn, sun protective behaviors, level of U.S. acculturation, and skin phototype from a cross‐sectional survey of 2003 Hispanic elementary school children in Los Angeles, California, who participated in a skin cancer prevention intervention. Although the Hispanic children reported frequently engaging in some sun protective behaviors, they also had a high rate of sunburn (59%) that exceeded previous national estimates for non‐Hispanic white children (43%). Fewer U.S.‐acculturated children reported more frequent shade‐seeking at home (P = .02), along with less shade‐seeking at school (P = .001) and more sunscreen use at school (P = .02). The surprisingly high rate of sunburn in Hispanic children suggests that the way in which they are practicing sun protection is not preventing sunburns. Sun safety interventions should be targeted toward Hispanic youth to provide them with practical methods of effective sun protection, in addition to education on the risks of high sun exposure.
The Impact of Inequality and Redistribution on Growth
Authors: El‐Shagi Makram , Shao Liang
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we reassess the impact of inequality on growth. The majority of previous papers have employed (system) GMM estimation. However, recent simulation studies indicate that the problems of GMM when using non‐stationary data such as GDP have been grossly underestimated in applied research. Concerning predetermined regressors such as inequality, GMM is outperformed by a simple least‐squares dummy variable estimator. Additionally, new data have recently become available that not only double the sample size compared to most previous studies, but also address the substantial measurement issues that have plagued past research. Using these new data and an LSDV estimator, we provide an analysis that both accounts for the conditions where inequality is beneficial or detrimental to growth and distinguishes between market‐driven inequality and redistribution. We show that there are situations where market inequality affects growth positively while redistribution is simultaneously beneficial.
Removable prosthesis hygiene in elders with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ribeiro Giselle Rodrigues , Campos Camila Heitor , Garcia Renata Cunha Matheus Rodrigues
Published: November 2017

Aim

To evaluate changes in prosthesis hygiene in elders with Parkinson's disease (PD) in response to verbal instruction and positive reinforcement.

Methods and Results

Elders with removable prostheses were divided into PD (n = 17) and control (n = 20) groups. Biofilm on prostheses was measured at baseline, and verbal instructions on prosthesis hygiene were given. After 7, 14, and 30 days, biofilm presence was re‐evaluated and the results were shown to participants, with repeated cleaning instruction. At baseline, participants with PD had more biofilm on maxillary prostheses than did controls (p = 0.009). At 30 days, biofilm presence on maxillary and mandibular prostheses did not differ between groups. Both groups showed reductions in biofilm accumulation on prostheses over time, but this effect took longer to appear on mandibular prostheses in the PD group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Verbal instruction and positive reinforcement can improve prosthesis hygiene in elders with and without PD.
Sustained adoption of water, sanitation and hygiene interventions: systematic review
Authors: Martin Nina A. , Hulland Kristyna R. S. , Dreibelbis Robert , Sultana Farhana , Winch Peter J.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To understand factors that influence sustained adoption of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) technologies or behaviours.

Methods

Systematic review of the current literature. Articles were gathered from databases of peer‐reviewed articles and grey literature, and screened for relevance. After exclusion, we created a descriptive map of 148 articles and analysed in‐depth 44 articles that had an explicit focus on promoting or evaluating sustained adoption or programme sustainability. Twenty‐two of these articles met our definition of measuring sustained adoption.

Results

Definitions of sustained adoption varied widely and were often inadequate, making comparison of sustained adoption across studies difficult. The time frame for measurements of sustained adoption is frequently inadequate for examination of longer‐term behaviour change.

Conclusions

Ideally, an evaluation should specify the project period and describe the context surrounding adoption, make measurements at multiple time points, diversify measurement methods and describe and measure a range of factors affecting sustained adoption. Additional consideration needs to be given to developing behaviour change models that emphasise factors related to sustained adoption, and how they differ from those related to initial adoption.
Sugar flux and signaling in plant–microbe interactions
Authors: Bezrutczyk Margaret , Yang Jungil , Eom Joon‐Seob , Prior Matthew , Sosso Davide , Hartwig Thomas , Szurek Boris , Oliva Ricardo , Vera‐Cruz Casiana , White Frank F. , Yang Bing , Frommer Wolf B.
Published: November 2017

Plant breeders have developed crop plants that are resistant to pests, but the continual evolution of pathogens creates the need to iteratively develop new control strategies. Molecular tools have allowed us to gain deep insights into disease responses, allowing for more efficient, rational engineering of crops that are more robust or resistant to a greater number of pathogen variants. Here we describe the roles of SWEET and STP transporters, membrane proteins that mediate transport of sugars across the plasma membrane. We discuss how these transporters may enhance or restrict disease through controlling the level of nutrients provided to pathogens and whether the transporters play a role in sugar signaling for disease resistance. This review indicates open questions that require further research and proposes the use of genome editing technologies for engineering disease resistance.
Oh, the places they'll go! A survey of phytopathogen effectors and their host targets
Authors: Khan Madiha , Seto Derek , Subramaniam Rajagopal , Desveaux Darrell
Published: November 2017

Phytopathogens translocate effector proteins into plant cells where they sabotage the host cellular machinery to promote infection. An individual pathogen can translocate numerous distinct effectors during the infection process to target an array of host macromolecules (proteins, metabolites, DNA, etc.) and manipulate them using a variety of enzymatic activities. In this review, we have surveyed the literature for effector targets and curated them to convey the range of functions carried out by phytopathogenic proteins inside host cells. In particular, we have curated the locations of effector targets, as well as their biological and molecular functions and compared these properties across diverse phytopathogens. This analysis validates previous observations about effector functions (e.g. immunosuppression), and also highlights some interesting features regarding effector specificity as well as functional diversification of phytopathogen virulence strategies.
Orbital invasive squamous cell carcinoma with adnexal involvement clinically mimicking feline restrictive orbital myofibroblastic sarcoma: 19 cases (1990‐2016)
Authors: Diehl Kathryn A. , Pryor Silvia G. , Teixeira Leandro B. C.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To describe the clinical presentations of patients diagnosed with ocular adnexal or orbital squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which possess features similar to feline restrictive orbital myofibroblastic sarcoma (FROMS).

Procedures

A retrospective review of adnexal and/or orbitalSCCwas performed. Cases were collected from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine and the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW) (1990‐2016). Data included signalment, ophthalmic clinical signs, nonophthalmic history and clinical signs, clinician suspicion ofFROMS, advanced imaging results, and subsequent histopathologic diagnosis.FROMScases from theCOPLOWover the same time span were reviewed and compared statistically to theSCCcases with a significance threshold of 0.05.

Results

Nineteen cases (20 eyes) were identified with adnexalSCCwith features similar toFROMS, including keratitis and eyelid/third eyelid restriction and/or thickening. There were no statistically significant differences between clinical findings in theSCCcases and the identified and comparedFROMScases (57 cases; 67 eyes), except for exophthalmos and/or resistance to retropulsion, which was less common inSCCcases (20%) than inFROMScases (47.8%) (P= 0.027); and clinical or imaged presence of an overt eyelid or orbital mass, which was more common in theSCCcases (30%) than in theFROMScases (4.5%) (P= 0.0010).

Conclusions

SCCwith adnexal involvement has many features similar toFROMS. In addition toFROMS,SCCshould be considered a differential diagnosis in cats with restrictive adnexal or orbital signs and corneal changes.
Ultrasonographic anatomy of the atlanto‐occipital region and ultrasound‐guided cerebrospinal fluid collection in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Anselmi Carlo , Dias Sara , Martorell Jaume , Navarro Marc , Espada Yvonne , Novellas Rosa
Published: November 2017

Cerebrospinal fluid analyses are important for diagnosis of neurologic problems in rabbits and for translational research projects using rabbits as models. Blind puncture of the cisterna magna is the current standard technique for sampling cerebrospinal fluid in this species. However, the complexity and small size of the cisterna magna and surrounding structures are limitations of this technique. Aims of this prospective, anatomic, pilot study were to (1) describe the normal anatomy of the atlanto‐occipital region, (2) describe ultrasonographic anatomic landmarks, and (3) develop and evaluate a technique for ultrasound‐guided puncture of the cisterna magna for cerebrospinal fluid sampling in rabbits. Thirty healthy rabbits were included and the study was conducted in three stages. Three rabbit cadavers were used for the first stage of the study. Then, the second stage was completed using 13 rabbit cadavers. Finally, the third stage was completed in 14 live rabbits. The ultrasound‐guided puncture performed in 13 cadavers was successful at the first attempt in 10 cases, and at the second attempt in the remaining three cases. In the in vivo study, the ultrasound‐guided puncture was successful in all 14 cases, without signs of complications. Findings supported the use of ultrasound‐guided puncture of the cisterna magna as a safe technique that may be used routinely or when the sample of cerebrospinal fluid cannot be obtained with the blind technique in rabbits.
Investigation of parameters predicting the need for diagnostic imaging beyond computed tomography in the evaluation of dogs with thoracolumbar myelopathy: Retrospective evaluation of 555 dogs
Authors: Emery Lee , Hecht Silke , Sun Xiaocun
Published: November 2017

Thoracolumbar myelopathy encompasses a number of disease processes such as intervertebral disc disease, discospondylitis, trauma, congenital malformations, neoplasia, and intramedullary spinal cord disease. Compressive disc herniations are most common in dogs and require imaging procedures such as myelography, computed tomography (CT), and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the need and location for decompressive surgery. The purposes of this retrospective, cross‐sectional study were to evaluate all dogs undergoing thoracolumbar CT imaging as the initial diagnostic step between 2010 and 2015 and determine whether any of the imaging characteristics could be used to predict the need for additional imaging in the form of myelography, CT myelography, and/or MRI. A total of 555 dogs were identified in this time frame which underwent CT imaging for myelopathy of the thoracolumbar region. Various parameters including age, gender, sexual status, breed, chronicity, site of lesion, time of study, and contrast administration were evaluated. Findings indicated that 7.6% of dogs needed additional imaging after CT. Dachshunds were less likely to need additional imaging (P = 0.0111) as were patients scanned during normal business hours (P = 0.0075). Increasing age of the patient increased the likelihood of additional imaging (P = 0.0107). Dogs which did not have additional imaging performed were 21.89 times more likely to require surgery than those which did have additional imaging (P < 0.0001). Findings supported the use of CT as a first‐line imaging modality for dogs presenting with thoracolumbar myelopathy.
Investigation of the effects of multiple pressures in the lower Danube basin
Authors: Hanganu Jenică , Constantinescu Adrian , Doroftei Mihai , Tošić Katarina
Published: November 2017

The main scope of the paper is the implementation of future scenarios in the Lower Danube basin, supporting the development of River Basin Management Plans and future environmental policies. The 800 000 km2 Danube River Basin extends across 19 countries, of which 14 are contracting parties of the ICPDR. The Lower Danube is occupied mostly by Romania, including the Danube Delta. The Danube Delta hydrological complex covers 5800 km2 comprising over 300 lakes, three main branches and a vast network of channels. Changes impacting significant ecosystem services such as recreation, fishing, flows, ecotourism, flood regulation, navigation and reed/wood resources have to be evaluated and the quantification of those elements must be performed in order to incorporate them into the modelling process.
GABA concentration in sensorimotor cortex following high‐intensity exercise and relationship to lactate levels
Authors: Coxon James P. , Cash Robin F. H. , Hendrikse Joshua J. , Rogasch Nigel C. , Stavrinos Ellen , Suo Chao , Yücel Murat
Published: November 2017

Key points

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy was conducted before and after high‐intensity interval exercise.

Sensorimotor cortex GABA concentration increased by 20%.

The increase was positively correlated with the increase in blood lactate.

There was no change in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

There were no changes in the glutamate‐glutamine‐glutathione peak.

High‐intensity exercise increases the concentration of circulating lactate. Cortical uptake of blood borne lactate increases during and after exercise; however, the potential relationship with changes in the concentration of neurometabolites remains unclear. Although changes in neurometabolite concentration have previously been demonstrated in primary visual cortex after exercise, it remains unknown whether these changes extend to regions such as the sensorimotor cortex (SM) or executive regions such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). In the present study, we explored the acute after‐effects of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) on the concentration of gamma‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the combined glutamate–glutamine–glutathione (Glx) spectral peak in the SM and DLPFC, as well as the relationship with blood lactate levels. Following HIIT, there was a robust increase in GABA concentration in the SM, as evident across the majority of participants. This change was not observed in the DLPFC. Furthermore, the increase in SM GABA was positively correlated with an increase in blood lactate. There were no changes in Glx concentration in either region. The observed increase in SM GABA concentration implies functional relevance, whereas the correlation with lactate levels may relate to the metabolic fate of exercise‐derived lactate that crosses the blood–brain barrier.