bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY, FLUORESCEIN ANGIOGRAPHY, AND DIAGNOSIS OF CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION IN AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION
Authors: Gualino Vincent , Tadayoni Ramin , Cohen Salomon Yves , Erginay Ali , Fajnkuchen Franck , Haouchine Belkacem , Krivosic Valérie , Quentel Gabriel , Vicaut Eric , Gaudric Alain
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To determine the sensitivity and specificity of different retinal imaging combinations for the diagnosis of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration.

Methods:

Patients aged 50 years or older referred for suspicious recent-onset CNV related to age-related macular degeneration were prospectively included for 6 months. Data recorded included color fundus photographs (CFPs), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and fluorescein angiography (FA) images. Five retina specialists randomly interpreted SD-OCT combined with CFP, and then FA combined with CFP. The reference diagnosis of CNV was based on the agreement of two readers in the interpretation of the SD-OCT + FA + CFP combination.

Results:

One hundred and forty-eight patients (148 eyes) were included. For the diagnosis of CNV, the sensitivity of both SD-OCT + CFP and FA + CFP was of 90.9%. Type 2 CNV was diagnosed in 98% to 100% of cases with SD-OCT + CFP or FA + CFP, whereas Type 1 CNV was diagnosed in 82.9% of cases with SD-OCT + CFP and 81.6% with FA + CFP.

Conclusion:

When used as a first diagnostic test, SD-OCT combined with CFP had sensitivity and specificity similar to those of FA combined with CFP, for the diagnosis of CNV in age-related macular degeneration. This shows the increasingly important role of SD-OCT as a first-line test in the diagnosis of CNV.
PHARMACOTHERAPEUTIC CLOSURE OF A PERSISTING TRAUMATIC MACULAR HOLE WITH INTRAOCULAR STEROIDS
Authors: Venkatesh Ramesh , Yadav Naresh K. , Jain Nimesh , Sinha Shivani , Mehta Ruchir
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To report a case of successful closure of traumatic macular hole after treatment with intraocular steroids in a nonvitrectomized eye.

Methods:

Retrospective observational case report.

Case description:

A 34-year-old man developed a full-thickness macular hole and submacular bleed after injury with firecracker in the left eye. Visual acuity in the left eye was counting fingers close to face. Intraocular gas, 0.3 cc of 100% SF6, was injected for displacement of submacular bleed. At 2 months after presentation, macular hole persisted with signs of intraocular inflammation. A trial of intraocular triamcinolone injection (2 mg in 0.05 ml) was given, which resulted in complete closure of macular hole and improvement in visual acuity to 6/36 and thereby avoiding the need for ocular surgery.

Conclusion:

Ocular steroids could play an important role in successful closure of persisting macular holes in a setting of blunt trauma, especially in a background of uveitis.
Conjunctival Eosinophilic Masses With Chronic Eosinophilic Pneumonia
Authors: Nagamoto Takashi , Mizuno Yoshinobu , Shigeyasu Chika , Fukui Masaki , Yamada Masakazu
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To report a case of ocular findings associated with chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (CEP).

Case:

A 63-year-old man was referred to the National Institution of Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center with bilateral eyelid swelling due to giant papillomatous changes, each measuring approximately 10 mm in diameter with severe hyperemia on the tarsal conjunctiva. He was followed for CEP for 8 years and systemically treated with 6 mg oral prednisolone for an average of 5 years. Because the lesions did not respond to topical 0.1% tacrolimus and 0.025% levocabastine treatment and because an increase in intraocular pressure was found to occur as a side effect of 0.01% betamethasone instillation for several months, we performed surgical resection of the bilateral conjunctival lesions. Histopathological findings revealed extreme eosinophil, plasma cell, and lymphocytic infiltration and interstitial fibrosis. These conjunctival specimen findings were similar to those seen in the alveolar lesions in CEP. Topical antiinflammatory therapy using 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops was administered after surgery, which relieved the patient's lid swelling and itching. However, the lesions concurrently changed to be consistent with exacerbation and remission of systemic CEP.

Conclusions:

Based on the clinical course and histopathology, the conjunctival proliferative masses in our case were assumed to be associated with CEP.
Improving Outcomes in Bridge-to-Transplant: Extended Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support to Obtain Optimal Donor Lungs for Marginal Recipients
Authors: Langer Frank , Aliyev Parviz , Schäfers Hans-Joachim , Trudzinski Franziska C. , Seiler Frederik , Bals Robert , Wilkens Heinrike , Lepper Philipp M.
Published: July 2018

The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) as bridge-to-lung transplantation has been discussed controversially because of discouraging results. We report our experience with this challenging strategy. This retrospective investigation includes all consecutive lung transplantations in our center between January 2012 and July 2017 (n = 88, median Lung Allocation Score 66). Data of patients on ECMO bridge-to-transplant (n = 34) were compared with patients without such support (n = 54). Patients requiring ECMO support underwent lung transplantation after median bridging time of 29 days (range, 0–129 days). Survival was superior if transplantation was performed within 29 days of ECMO (p= 0.04). Donor age and oxygenation (pO2/FiO2) were similar in recipients with ECMO (42.3 ± 15.2 years, 444.5 ± 68.9 mm·Hg) or without ECMO (43.1 ± 13.9 years, 454.5 ± 73.4 mm·Hg). Four patients required postoperative ECMO support >1 day. Survival at 1 year and 3 years was similar in recipients with ECMO support (79%, 63%) or without ECMO support (86%, 71%). Successful lung transplantation after ECMO as bridge-to-transplant can be achieved, even in patients with prolonged support times. Bridging time of less than 30 days, however, is crucial for success. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation expertise and donor organ quality may be important factors for favorable outcome.
Update on the role of chromoendoscopy in colonoscopic surveillance of patients with Lynch syndrome
Authors: van de Wetering Alouisa J.P. , Bogie Roel M.M. , Cabbolet Assi C.O.G. , Winkens Bjorn , Masclee Ad A.M. , Sanduleanu Silvia
Published: July 2018

(Virtual) chromoendoscopy (CE) improves the detection of small or flat colorectal polyps; however, the evidence in high-risk groups, such as patients of Lynch syndrome (LS), is low. Our aim was to identify and update the evidence for the recommendations regarding surveillance of LS patients, for which the current underlying evidence for use of (virtual) CE was explored. A systematic literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library was conducted, for all studies comparing (virtual) CE with white-light endoscopy in LS patients. Studies are explained in detail, with special attention to study design, type of (virtual) CE, and timing of polypectomy. Eight studies (409 patients) were included. Five were nonrandomized back-to-back studies and three were randomized back-to-back studies (one parallel and two cross-over design). In six studies the polyps were directly removed, while in two studies polyps were removed only during the second caecal withdrawal. Five studies researched CE with indigo carmine and three studies investigated virtual CE. Due to the heterogeneity between studies, no statistical analysis could be performed. There was a large variety in study design, timing of polypectomy, different (virtual) CE techniques and the patients that were included. Based on current literature, no firm conclusions can be drawn with respect to the additional value of (virtual) CE in the surveillance of patients with LS. However, training of endoscopists in detection and removal of nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms is crucial, as well as stricter adherence to LS surveillance guidelines in daily clinical practice. For future research, standardization in study designs is needed.
Cancer Incidence Among Children in New Caledonia, 1994 to 2012
Authors: Hartmann Erika , Missotte Isabelle , Dalla-Pozza Luciano
Published: July 2018

New Caledonia (NC) is a small French territory in the Pacific Ocean with a relatively young (32% under 20) and multiethnic population. It is divided into 3 districts: Loyalty Island, the North, and the South, each with specific population characteristics. The aim of this study was to describe childhood cancer age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) in NC, compare it with the estimated one in France , and to determine whether residence and ethnicity may have an influence on intrapopulation ASR. All incident cancer cases diagnosed between 1994 and 2012 in children (0 to 14 y) resident in NC for more than 6 months were included. With 162 registered cases, the ASR for all cancers combined was 142.2 (range, 104.9 to 193.3) cases per million children per year and was not different from what was estimated in France (156.6). However, incidence varies according to the place of residence, with a higher ASR in the Loyalty Island district for several types of neoplasms, but not according to the ethnicity. The small migratory flux between this district and the rest of the territory may have led to these results, but, because of the small number of cases, no conclusion can be drawn.
Sirolimus Treatment of an Infant With Intrathoracic Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma Complicated by Life-threatening Pleural and Pericardial Effusions
Authors: Duan Lucy , Renzi Samuele , Weidman Danielle , Waespe Nicolas , Chami Rose , Manson David , Cada Michaela , Carcao Manuel
Published: July 2018

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a rare infiltrative vascular tumor that may be associated with Kasabach-Merritt Phenomenon (KMP), which is a consumptive coagulopathy with potentially life-threatening thrombocytopenia. Management of KHE and KMP is challenging, and currently, there are no standardized validated treatment protocols. Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors have been shown to be effective in the treatment of KHE. We describe a term male who presented as a diagnostic dilemma with life-threatening pleural and pericardial effusions and severe thrombocytopenia. After extensive work-up the etiology for his condition was determined to be KHE with KMP. The patient was commenced on sirolimus and responded well to therapy with resolution of KMP.
Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening Rates by Symptomatic Status Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: A Hierarchical Bayesian Analysis
Authors: Jenness Samuel M. , Weiss Kevin M. , Prasad Pragati , Zlotorzynska Maria , Sanchez Travis
Published: July 2018

Background

Prevention of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) requires timely disease detection, but this is complicated by asymptomatic infection. We estimated screening/testing rates by symptomatic status to evaluate adherence to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention STI screening guidelines.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study of 2572 US MSM aged 15 to 65 years in 2017 to 2018, we measured the reported number of asymptomatic STI screens in the past 2 years versus tests prompted by disease symptoms. Using negative binominal regression within a hierarchical Bayesian framework, we estimated yearly rates of asymptomatic screening and symptomatic testing by geographic, demographic, and behavioral factors.

Results

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status was most strongly associated with all testing/screening frequency (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.72; 95% credible interval [Crl], 1.49, 1.97). The HIV-uninfected MSM had 0.14 (95% credible interval [CrI], 0.12–0.17) symptomatic tests and 0.88 (95% CrI, 0.77–1.01) asymptomatic screens per year. The HIV-infected MSM had 0.25 (95% CrI, 0.18–0.35) symptomatic tests and 1.53 (95% CrI, 1.24–1.88) asymptomatic screens per year. Rates of asymptomatic screening were higher among black compared with white MSM (IRR, 1.41; 95% CrI, 1.15–1.73), but weakly associated with number of past-year sexual partners (IRR, 1.01; 95% CrI, 1.00–1.01). Overall, 85% to 90% of diagnostic events were asymptomatic screens.

Conclusions

Self-reported rates of STI screening were close to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommended overall annual screening frequency, but with gaps defined by demographics and behavioral risk. Targeted screening efforts may be indicated specifically for younger MSM and those with multiple partners.
Preexposure Prophylaxis for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Prevention Among HIV–uninfected Pregnant Women: Estimated Coverage Using Risk-based Versus Regional Prevalence Approaches
Authors: Pintye Jillian , Singa Benson , Wanyonyi Kennedy , Itindi Janet , Kinuthia John , Langat Agnes , Nganga Lucy , Katana Abraham , Baeten Jared M. , McGrath Christine J. , John-Stewart Grace
Published: July 2018

Antenatal register data from 62 clinics in 5 regions of Kenya were used to estimate women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk (partner HIV status, syphilis). With individual risk-guided preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) offer in all regions, 39% of pregnant women would be offered PrEP nationally. Offering PrEP to all women in high-prevalence regions reached 26% of the pregnant women.
Adherence to Guidelines in the Treatment of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Children
Authors: Weinberger Katharina , Seick Barbarini Daniela , Simma Burkhard
Published: July 2018

Background

The aim of this study is to assess the adherence of Austrian physicians to International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes guidelines 2009 concerning treatment in diabetic ketoacidosis and whether there is a difference between specialty (endocrinologists or intensivists) or clinical experience.

Patients and Methods

An online questionnaire was sent to members of the working groups of the Austrian Society of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine.

Results

Of 106 questionnaires, 56 were included in the analysis. The mean ± SD overall adherence was 60 ± 23.5%. Endocrinologists showed a nonsignificant higher result, related to a significant higher adherence regarding the amount of fluids (P < 0.05) and tendency to bicarbonate use (P = 0.052) respectively. No differences were found between participants with different clinical experience. All gave crystalloids, 55% administered initial bolus of 10 to 20 mL/kg per hour, 58% used 1.5 to 2 times fluid maintenance, 87% started insulin after first fluid bolus, 28% gave 0.05 and 0.1 IE/kg per hour to infants and children respectively, and 43% 0.05 IE/kg per hour to all patients. When blood glucose falls, 53% gave glucose and 47% reduced insulin. In cerebral edema, 46% gave at least 2 of 3 recommended measures (fluid reduction, mannitol, or hypertonic saline). In acidosis (pH <6.9), 25% administered bicarbonate (as per guideline) and 52.9% never gave bicarbonate.

Conclusions

Adherence to the actual guidelines is 60% and does neither depend on speciality nor on clinical routine. Essential treatment measures (eg, amount of fluids, consequence of rapid glucose fall, bicarbonate use) are not commonly known.
A Case Report of Pediatric Paraneoplastic Dysautonomia
Authors: Harer Katherine , Mann Jennifer , Muhlbauer Nicole , Welch Jennifer , Alverson Brian
Published: July 2018

We present the case of a 16-year-old girl who presented with severe refractory orthostatic hypotension secondary to pandysautonomia. Initially, she was treated for Guillain-Barré syndrome given clinical symptoms and increased protein on cerebrospinal fluid, but the severity of symptoms and lack of response to intravenous immunoglobulin prompted further evaluation for an autoimmune etiology. She was ultimately diagnosed with paraneoplastic neuropathy secondary to Hodgkin lymphoma. Paraneoplastic neurologic phenomena are rare, occurring in just 0.01% of cancers, and prompt recognition is crucial for initiating appropriate therapy. Rapid progression of severe disabling symptoms should raise suspicion for an underlying malignancy. The patient had limited response to splanchnic vasoconstrictors in addition to α-agonists, anticholinergics, and mineralocorticoids until initiation of modified Hodgkin lymphoma directed chemotherapy plus rituximab.
Effectiveness of Canakinumab in Colchicine- and Anakinra-Resistant or -Intolerant Adult Familial Mediterranean Fever Patients
Authors: Babaoglu Hakan , Varan Ozkan , Kucuk Hamit , Atas Nuh , Satis Hasan , Salman Reyhan , Ozturk Mehmet Akif , Goker Berna , Tufan Abdurrahman , Haznedaroglu Seminur
Published: July 2018

Objective

We aimed to present our single-center real-life experience of canakinumab use in adult patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF).

Methods

Data were derived from the Gazi FMF cohort, which was established in 2010. From that year, all patients with FMF were registered. The impact of FMF on their lives was tracked by either an FMF diary or mobile phone application (FMF-AIDD, free to download in App Store and Google Play). The records of patients who were treated with canakinumab were reviewed.

Results

Twenty-three adult patients with FMF (65% female) were enrolled in this study. The median age was 32 years (min–max, 24–58 years), and the disease duration was 26 years (14–59 years). A total of 86% of patients harbored homozygous or compound heterozygous exon 10 MEFV mutations. Indications for interleukin 1 inhibitor use were colchicine resistance (n = 12) or intolerance (n = 2), amyloidosis (n = 7), and chronic manifestations of the disease (n = 2). All patients used anakinra before. The median duration of canakinumab use was 7 months (min–max, 1–44 months). Pre- and post-canakinumab periods were compared. Attack severity, duration, frequency, C-reactive protein level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were significantly improved (p ≤ 0.01), whereas serum creatinine and alanine aminotransferase levels remained the same (p = 0.27 and p = 0.74, respectively). Canakinumab achieved complete disease remission in 14 patients (60%). Canakinumab was discontinued in 7 patients. The reasons for discontinuation were pregnancy (n = 2), dominance of axial spondyloarthropathy (n = 2), inflammatory bowel disease, patient's refusal, and weight gain.

Conclusions

Canakinumab is effective in the prevention of FMF bouts without severe adverse effects. Treatment with canakinumab in an individualized dose and interval may be a reasonable choice for colchicine- and anakinra-resistant or -intolerant adult patients with FMF and those with chronic manifestations of disease.
Reduced Postburn Hypertrophic Scarring and Improved Physical Recovery With Yearlong Administration of Oxandrolone and Propranolol
Authors: Herndon David , Capek Karel D. , Ross Evan , Jay Jayson W. , Prasai Anesh , Ayadi Amina El , Foncerrada-Ortega Guillermo , Blears Elizabeth , Sommerhalder Christian , McMullen Kara , Amtmann Dagmar , Cox Robert , Hundeshagen Gabriel , Jennings Kristofer , Sousse Linda E. , Suman Oscar E. , Meyer Walter J. , Finnerty Celeste C.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Massive burns induce a hypermetabolic response that leads to total body wasting and impaired physical and psychosocial recovery. The administration of propranolol or oxandrolone positively affects postburn metabolism and growth. The combined administration of oxandrolone and propranolol (OxProp) for 1 year restores growth in children with large burns. Here, we investigated whether the combined administration of OxProp for 1 year would reduce scarring and improve quality of life compared with control.

Study Design:

Children with large burns (n = 480) were enrolled into this institutional review board-approved study; patients were randomized to control (n = 226) or administration of OxProp (n = 126) for 1 year postburn. Assessments were conducted at discharge and 6, 12, and 24 months postburn. Scar biopsies were obtained for histology. Physical scar assessments and patient reported outcome measures of physical and psychosocial function were obtained.

Results:

Reductions in cellularity, vascular structures, inflammation, and abnormal collagen (P < 0.05) occurred in OxProp-treated scars. With OxProp, scar severity was attenuated and pliability increased (both P < 0.05). Analyses of patient-reported outcomes showed improved general and emotional health within the OxProp-treated group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Here, we have shown improvements in objective and subjective measures of scarring and an increase in overall patient-reported physical function. The combined administration of OxProp for up to a year after burn injury should be considered for the reduction of postburn scarring and improvement of long-term psychosocial outcomes in children with massive burns.
The Clinical Significance of Breast-only and Node-only Pathologic Complete Response (pCR) After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy (NACT)
Authors: Fayanju Oluwadamilola M. , Ren Yi , Thomas Samantha M. , Greenup Rachel A. , Plichta Jennifer K. , Rosenberger Laura H. , Tamirisa Nina , Force Jeremy , Boughey Judy C. , Hyslop Terry , Hwang E. Shelley
Published: July 2018

Objective:

To determine whether the association between overall survival (OS) and response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in breast cancer patients varies with tumor subtype and anatomic extent of pathologic complete response (pCR).

Background:

pCR after NACT predicts improved OS in breast cancer, but it is unclear whether pCR limited to the breast or axilla is also associated with OS.

Methods:

Women with cT1-3/cN0-1 breast cancer diagnosed in 2010 to 2014 who underwent surgery following NACT were identified in the NCDB and divided into 4 subtypes based on reported hormone receptor (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate OS. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with post-NACT response, defined as upstage (yp stage>clinical stage); no change (clinical stage = yp stage); overall (breast+axilla, ypT0N0), breast-only (ypT0N1/N1mic), or node-only (ypT1-3N0) pCR.

Results:

Of 33,162 identified patients, 20,265 experienced overall pCR (n = 6370, 19.2%), breast-only pCR (n = 494, 1.5%), node-only pCR (n = 1133, 3.4%), no stage change (n = 9641, 29.1%), or upstage (n = 2627, 7.9%). Compared with no stage change, breast-only pCR was associated with improved OS in triple-negative disease [hazard ratio = 0.58, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.37–0.89], and node-only pCR was associated with improved OS in both triple-negative (hazard ratio = 0.55,95% CI = 0.39–0.76) and HR+/HER2− disease (hazard ratio = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.33–0.89). For patients achieving overall (breast+axilla) pCR, unadjusted 5-year OS was 0.94 (95% CI = 0.93–0.95), with no difference between patients who were cN0 (hazard ratio = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.93–0.96) or cN1 (hazard ratio = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.92–0.96) at diagnosis.

Conclusions:

In node-positive patients, pCR limited to either the breast or axilla predicts survival for select receptor subtypes. In patients achieving pCR in both the breast and axilla, survival is driven by response to NACT rather than presenting cN stage.
Geoffrey Raisman. 28 June 1939—27 January 2017
Authors: Fawcett James
Published: July 2018

Geoffrey Raisman was a neuroscientist whose particular love was the microanatomy and ultrastructure of the nervous system. From his anatomical studies came discoveries in synaptic plasticity, neuroendocrinology, axon regeneration, spinal cord repair and glaucoma. His studies of the anatomy of synapses after denervation led to his concept of plasticity, where synapses compete for targets and can replace those that are lost. This discovery persuaded him, against the dominant view of the time, that some repair of the damaged nervous system should be possible. His studies of the events following damage to the nervous system led to the pathway hypothesis; axon regeneration is blocked by scar tissue formed of glial cells around injuries. Finding that the newly born olfactory neurons that are created throughout life grow axons into the brain with the assistance of specialized olfactory glia, he realized that these glial cells might also assist regenerating axons to bridge the scar tissue blocking axon regeneration. Preliminary trials of this treatment in human spinal cord injuries have shown some clinical promise. He recently developed a new energy theory of glaucoma.
Students' learning style detection using tree augmented naive Bayes
Authors: Li Ling Xiao , Abdul Rahman Siti Soraya
Published: July 2018

Students are characterized according to their own distinct learning styles. Discovering students' learning style is significant in the educational system in order to provide adaptivity. Past researches have proposed various approaches to detect the students’ learning styles. Among all, the Bayesian network has emerged as a widely used method to automatically detect students' learning styles. On the other hand, tree augmented naive Bayesian network has the ability to improve the naive Bayesian network in terms of better classification accuracy. In this paper, we evaluate the performance of the tree augmented naive Bayesian in automatically detecting students’ learning style in the online learning environment. The experimental results are promising as the tree augmented naive Bayes network is shown to achieve higher detection accuracy when compared to the Bayesian network.
Identification and characterization of circular RNAs in Qinchuan cattle testis
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wu Mingli , Fan Yingzhi , Li Shipeng , Lai Zhenyu , Huang Yongzhen , Lan Xianyong , Lei Chuzhao , Chen Hong , Dang Ruihua
Published: July 2018

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a new class of non-coding RNA that has recently attracted researchers' interest. Studies have demonstrated that circRNA can function as microRNA sponges or competing endogenous RNAs. Although circRNA has been explored in some species and tissues, the genetic basis of testis development and spermatogenesis in cattle remains unknown. We performed ribo-depleted total RNA-Seq to detect circRNA expression profiles of neonatal (one week old) and adult (4 years old) Qinchuan cattle testes. We obtained 91 112 596 and 80 485 868 clean reads and detected 21 753 circRNAs. A total of 4248 circRNAs were significantly differentially expressed between neonatal and adult cattle testes. Among these circRNAs, 2225 were upregulated, and 2023 were downregulated in adult cattle testis. Genomic feature, length distribution and other characteristics of the circRNAs in cattle testis were studied. Moreover, Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analyses were performed for source genes of circRNAs. These source genes were mainly involved in tight junction, adherens junction, TGFβ signalling pathway and reproduction, such asPIWIL1, DPY19L2, SLC26A8, IFT81, SMC1B, IQCGandTTLL5. CircRNA expression patterns were validated by RT-qPCR. Our discoveries provide a solid foundation for the identification and characterization of key circRNAs involved in testis development or spermatogenesis.
Mammalian chromosome–telomere length dynamics
Authors: Klegarth Amy R. , Eisenberg Dan T. A.
Published: July 2018

Individual chromosome arms have specific individual telomere lengths (TLs). Past studies within species have shown strong positive correlations between individual chromosome length and TL at that chromosome. While the reasons for these associations are unclear, the strength and consistency of the associations across disparate taxa suggest that this is important to telomere biology and should be explored further. If TL is primarily determined by chromosome length, then chromosome length should be considered and controlled for in cross-species analyses of TL. Here, we employ a cross-species approach to explore whether the chromosome length–TL association observed intraspecifically is a determinant of mean TL across species. Data were compiled from two studies characterizing TL across a range of mammalian taxa and analysed in a phylogenetic framework. We found no significant relationship between TL and chromosome size across mammals or within mammalians orders. The pattern trends in the expected direction and we suggest may be masked by evolutionary lag effects.
Synthesis and structure/properties characterizations of four polyurethane model hard segments
Authors: Jiang Lei , Ren Zhiyong , Zhao Wei , Liu Wentao , Liu Hao , Zhu Chengshen
Published: July 2018

Four model polyurethane (PU) hard segments were synthesized by reaction of butanol with four typical diisocyanates. The four diisocyanates were aromatic 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (4,4′-MDI) and MDI-50 (50% mixture of 2,4′-MDI and 4,4′-MDI), cycloaliphatic 4,4′-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate (HMDI) and linear aliphatic 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI). FTIR,
1
H NMR,
13
C NMR, MS, X-ray and DSC methods were employed to determine their structures and to analyse their crystallization behaviours and hydrogen bonding interactions. Each of the four PU compounds prepared in the present work displays unique spectral characteristics. The FTIR bands and NMR resonance peaks assigned in the four samples thus provide a reliable database and starting point for investigating the relationship between hard segment structure and the crystallization and hydrogen bonding behaviour in more complex-segmented PU compositions.
Plant–animal worms round themselves up in circular mills on the beach
Authors: Sendova-Franks Ana B. , Franks Nigel R. , Worley Alan
Published: July 2018

Collective motion is a fascinating and intensely studied manifestation of collective behaviour. Circular milling is an impressive example. It occurs in fishes, processionary caterpillars and army ants, among others. Its adaptive significance, however, is not yet well understood. Recently, we demonstrated experimentally circular milling in the marine plant–animal wormSymsagittifera roscoffensis. We hypothesized that its function is to gather the worms and facilitate the dense films they form on the beach to promote the photosynthesis of their symbiotic algae. Here, we report for the first time, to our knowledge, the occurrence ofS. roscoffensiscircular mills in nature and show that it is by no means rare. The size and behaviour of circular mills in their natural environment is compatible with our earlier experimental results. This makesS. roscoffensisa good study system for understanding the proximate and ultimate mechanisms of circular milling.
Quantifying plasma immersion ion implantation of insulating surfaces in a dielectric barrier discharge: how to control the dose
Authors: Tran Clara T. , Ganesan Rajesh , McKenzie David R.
Published: July 2018

The plasma physics of dielectric barrier discharges (DBD) for carrying out ion implantation in insulators is investigated. A hollow cathode DBD excited by high-voltage pulses is suitable for ion bombardment of the surfaces of insulating tubing, porous material, particles and sheets. Plasma immersion ion implantation of insulating surfaces is useful for many applications in medicine and engineering. The ion bombardment of glass is useful for cleaning and surface modification. The ion implantation of polymers creates radicals that are able to bind molecules to their surfaces for applications in medical procedures and diagnostics. A wire diagnostic probe and optical emission spectroscopy are used for experimental work. A theory based on mutual capacitance is developed to convert data from the probe to give implanted charge as a function of pressure, voltage and pulse duration. We find the operating conditions that allow for charge to be implanted and those that achieve the highest implanted charge.
Admixture of hybrid swarms of native and introduced lizards in cities is determined by the cityscape structure and invasion history
Authors: Beninde Joscha , Feldmeier Stephan , Veith Michael , Hochkirch Axel
Published: July 2018

Introductions of non-native lineages increase opportunities for hybridization. Non-native lineages of the common wall lizard,Podarcis muralis, are frequently introduced in cities where they hybridize with native populations. We aimed at unravelling the invasion history and admixture of native and non-native wall lizards in four German cities using citywide, comprehensive sampling. We barcoded and genotyped 826 lizards and tested if gene flow in populations composed of admixed native and introduced lineages is facilitated by similar environmental factors to those in native populations by comparing fine-scale landscape genetic patterns. In cities with non-native lineages, lizards commonly occurred in numerous clusters of hybrid swarms, which showed variable lineage composition, consisting of up to four distinct evolutionary lineages. Hybrid swarms held vast genetic diversity and showed recent admixture with other hybrid swarms. Landscape genetic analyses showed differential effects of cityscape structures across cities, but identified water bodies as strong barriers to gene flow in both native and admixed populations. By contrast, railway tracks facilitated gene flow of admixed populations only. Our study shows that cities represent unique settings for hybridization, caused by multiple introductions of non-native taxa. Cityscape structure and invasion histories of cities will determine future evolutionary pathways at these novel hybrid zones.
The evolution of constitutive and induced defences to infectious disease
Authors: Boots Mike , Best Alex
Published: July 2018

In response to infectious disease, hosts typically mount both constitutive and induced defences. Constitutive defence prevents infection in the first place, while induced defence typically shortens the infectious period. The two routes to defence, therefore, have very different implications not only to individuals but also to the epidemiology of the disease. Moreover, the costs of constitutive defences are likely to be paid even in the absence of disease, while induced defences are likely to incur the most substantial costs when they are used in response to infection. We examine theoretically the evolutionary implications of these fundamental differences. A key result is that high virulence in the parasite typically selects for higher induced defences even if they result in immunopathology leading to very high disease mortality. Disease impacts on fecundity are critical to the relative investment in constitutive and induced defence with important differences found when parasites castrate their hosts. The trade-off between constitutive and induced defence has been cited as a cause of the diversity in defence, but we show that the trade-off alone is unlikely to lead to diversity. Our models provide a framework to examine relative investment in different defence components both experimentally and in the field.
Self-limiting population genetic control with sex-linked genome editors
Authors: Burt Austin , Deredec Anne
Published: July 2018

In male heterogametic species the Y chromosome is transmitted solely from fathers to sons, and is selected for based only on its impacts on male fitness. This fact can be exploited to develop efficient pest control strategies that use Y-linked editors to disrupt the fitness of female descendants. With simple population genetic and dynamic models we show that Y-linked editors can be substantially more efficient than other self-limiting strategies and, while not as efficient as gene drive approaches, are expected to have less impact on non-target populations with which there is some gene flow. Efficiency can be further augmented by simultaneously releasing an autosomal X-shredder construct, in either the same or different males. Y-linked editors may be an attractive option to consider when efficient control of a species is desired in some locales but not others.
Recent prey capture experience and dynamic habitat quality mediate short-term foraging site fidelity in a seabird
Authors: Carroll Gemma , Harcourt Robert , Pitcher Benjamin J. , Slip David , Jonsen Ian
Published: July 2018

Foraging site fidelity allows animals to increase their efficiency by returning to profitable feeding areas. However, the mechanisms underpinning why animals ‘stay’ or ‘switch’ sites have rarely been investigated. Here, we explore how habitat quality and prior prey capture experience influence short-term site fidelity by the little penguin (Eudyptula minor). Using 88 consecutive foraging trips by 20 brooding penguins, we found that site fidelity was higher after foraging trips where environmental conditions were favourable, and after trips where prey capture success was high. When penguins exhibited lower site fidelity, the number of prey captures relative to the previous trip increased, suggesting that switches in foraging location were an adaptive strategy in response to low prey capture rates. Penguins foraged closer to where other penguins foraged on the same day than they did to the location of their own previous foraging site, and caught more prey when they foraged close together. This suggests that penguins aggregated flexibly when prey was abundant and accessible. Our results illustrate how foraging predators can integrate information about prior experience with contemporary information such as social cues. This gives insight into how animals combine information adaptively to exploit changing prey distribution in a dynamic environment.
A trade-off between thickness and length in the zebra finch sperm mid-piece
Authors: Mendonca Tania , Birkhead Tim R. , Cadby Ashley J. , Forstmeier Wolfgang , Hemmings Nicola
Published: July 2018

The sperm mid-piece has traditionally been considered to be the engine that powers sperm. Larger mid-pieces have therefore been assumed to provide greater energetic capacity. However, in the zebra finch
Taeniopygia guttata
, a recent study showed a surprising negative relationship between mid-piece length and sperm energy content. Using a multi-dimensional approach to study mid-piece structure, we tested whether this unexpected relationship can be explained by a trade-off between mid-piece length and mid-piece thickness and/or cristae density inside the mitochondrial helix. We used selective plane illumination microscopy to study mid-piece structure from three-dimensional images of zebra finch sperm and used high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to quantify mitochondrial density. Contrary to the assumption that longer mid-pieces are larger and therefore produce or contain a greater amount of energy, our results indicate that the amount of mitochondrial material is consistent across mid-pieces of varying lengths, and longer mid-pieces are simply proportionately ‘thinner’.
Trophic interactions among vertebrate guilds and plants shape global patterns in species diversity
Authors: Zhang Jian , Qian Hong , Girardello Marco , Pellissier Vincent , Nielsen Scott E. , Svenning Jens-Christian
Published: July 2018

Trophic interactions play critical roles in structuring biotic communities. Understanding variation in trophic interactions among systems provides important insights into biodiversity maintenance and conservation. However, the relative importance of bottom-up versus top-down trophic processes for broad-scale patterns in biodiversity is poorly understood. Here, we used global datasets on species richness of vascular plants, mammals and breeding birds to evaluate the role of trophic interactions in shaping large-scale diversity patterns. Specifically, we used non-recursive structural equation models to test for top-down and bottom-up forcing of global species diversity patterns among plants and trophic guilds of mammals and birds (carnivores, invertivores and herbivores), while accounting for extrinsic environmental drivers. The results show that trophic linkages emerged as being more important to explaining species richness than extrinsic environmental drivers. In particular, there were strong, positive top-down interactions between mammal herbivores and plants, and moderate to strong bottom-up and/or top-down interactions between herbivores/invertivores and carnivores. Estimated trophic interactions for separate biogeographical regions were consistent with global patterns. Our findings demonstrate that, after accounting for environmental drivers, large-scale species richness patterns in plant and vertebrate taxa consistently support trophic interactions playing a major role in shaping global patterns in biodiversity. Furthermore, these results suggest that top-down forces often play strong complementary roles relative to bottom-up drivers in structuring biodiversity patterns across trophic levels. These findings underscore the importance of integrating trophic forcing mechanisms into studies of biodiversity patterns.
No detectable effect of
Wolbachia w
Mel on the prevalence and abundance of the RNA virome of
Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Shi Mang , White Vanessa L. , Schlub Timothy , Eden John-Sebastian , Hoffmann Ary A. , Holmes Edward C.
Published: July 2018

Wolbachia
is an endosymbiotic bacterium that can block viral infections in arthropods, generating interest in its potential to control the spread of mosquito-borne disease.
Drosophila melanogaster
is model organism for
Wolbachia
infection, and the
w
Mel strain of
Wolbachia
can improve host survival following viral infection. However, it is unclear whether
w
Mel induces anti-viral blocking against the broader native virome of
D. melanogaster
, or whether the major effect of
Wolbachia
is a reduction in viral abundance rather than viral clearance. We examined the effect of
Wolbachia
on viral abundance by comparing the total transcriptome of
w
Mel-positive and
w
Mel-negative
D. melanogaster
populations sampled from six locations in Australia. In addition, we examined the impact of
w
Mel on individual flies by obtaining transcriptome data from 20
w
Mel-positive and 20
w
Mel-negative
D. melanogaster
from the location (Melbourne) with highest density of
w
Mel. These data revealed high viral abundance in both
Wolbachia
-positive and -negative populations and individuals. Notably, none of the viral species identified, representing RNA viruses from at least nine families/floating genera, showed evidence of protection by
w
Mel. Although the viral loads of picorna-like viruses are reduced by
w
Mel under experimental conditions, we observed no such effect here. These data show that
D. melanogaster
can harbour abundant RNA viruses regardless of its
Wolbachia
status and imply that the interaction between
Wolbachia
and viruses in nature is more complex than simple blocking.
Repeated Measures Regression In Laboratory, Clincal And Enviromental Research - Different Between/Within Subject Slopes And Common Misconceptions
Authors: Hoover Donald R , Shi Qiuhu , Anastos Kathyrn
Published: July 2018

When using repeated measures linear regression models to make causal inference in laboratory, clinical and environmental research, it is often assumed that the Within Subject association of differences (or changes) in predictor value across replicates is the same as the Between Subject association of differences in those predictor values. But this is often false, for example with body weight as the predictor and blood cholesterol the outcome i) a 10 pound weight increase in the same adult more greatly a higher increase in cholesterol in that adult than does ii) one adult weighing 10 pounds more than a second reflect increased cholesterol levels in the first adult as the weigh difference in i) more closely tracks higher body fat while that in ii) is also influenced by heavier adults being taller. Hence to make causal inferences, different Within and Between subject slopes should be separately modeled. A related misconception commonly made using generalized estimation equations (GEE) and mixed models (MM) on repeated measures (i.e. for fitting Cross Sectional Regression) is that the working correlation structure used only influences variance of model parameter estimates. But only independence working correlation guarantees the modeled parameters have any interpretability. We illustrate this with an example where changing working correlation from independence to equicorrelation qualitatively biases parameters of GEE models and show this happens because Between and Within Subject slopes for the predictor variables differ. We then describe several common mechanisms that cause Within and Between Subject slopes to differ as; change effects, lag/reverse lag and spillover causality, shared within subject measurement bias or confounding, and predictor variable measurement error. The misconceptions noted here should be better publicized in laboratory, clinical and environmental research. Repeated measures analyses should compare Within and Between subject slopes of predictors and when they differ, investigate the reasons this has happened.
A Sensory Processing Hierarchy for Thermal Touch: Thermal Adaptation Occurs Prior to Thermal-Tactile Integration
Authors: Ho Hsin-Ni , Mei Chow Hiu , Tsunokake Sayaka , Roseboom Warrick
Published: July 2018

The brain consistently faces a challenge of whether and how to combine the available information sources to estimate the properties of an object explored by hand. Thermal referral (TR) is a phenomenon that demonstrates how thermal and tactile modalities coordinate to resolve inconsistencies in spatial and thermal information. When the middle three fingers of one hand are thermally stimulated, but only the outer two fingers are heated (or cooled), thermal uniformity is perceived across three fingers. This illusory experience of thermal uniformity in TR compensates for the discontinuity in the thermal sensation across the sites in contact. The neural loci of TR is unclear. While TR reflects the diffuse nature of the thermoceptive system, its similarities to perceptual filling-in and its facilitative role in object perception also suggest that TR might involve inference processes associated with object perception. To clarify the positioning of this thermo-tactile interaction in the sensory processing hierarchy, we used perceptual adaptation and Bayesian decision modelling techniques. Our results indicate that TR adaptation takes place at a peripheral stage where information about temperature inputs are still preserved for each finger, and that the thermal-tactile interaction occurs after this stage. We also show that the temperature integration across three fingers in TR is consistent with precision weighted averaging effect - Bayesian cue combination. Altogether, our findings suggest that for the sensory processing hierarchy of thermal touch, thermal adaptation occurs prior to thermo-tactile integration, which combines thermal and tactile information to give a unified percept to facilitate object recognition.

Significance Statement

Thermal touch refers to the perception of temperature of objects in contact with the skin and is key to object recognition based on thermal cues. While object perception is an inference process involving multisensory inputs, thermal referral (TR) is an illusion demonstrating how the brain’s interpretation of object temperature can deviate from physical reality. Here we used TR to explore the processing hierarchy of thermal touch. We show that adaptation of thermal perception occurs prior to integration of thermal information across tactile locations. Further, we show that TR results from simple averaging of thermal sensation across locations. Our results illuminate the flexibility of the processing that underlies thermal-tactile interactions and facilitates object exploration and identification in our complicated natural environment.