bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Program for Improving Advanced Imaging Interpretation
Authors: Powell Adam C. , Long James W. , Kren Erin M. , Gupta Amit K. , Levin David C.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Self-referred imaging has grown rapidly, raising concerns about increased costs and compromised quality of care. A quality improvement program using imaging interpretation criteria was designed by a national payer to ensure that noninvasive diagnostic images are interpreted by appropriately trained physicians. The objective of this program evaluation was to compare self-referral rates before and after institution of the imaging interpretation criteria program.

Methods

The imaging interpretation criteria program allocated privileges to bill for advanced imaging interpretation according to physician specialty. Nonradiologist physicians could obtain exemptions by appeal. Some physicians were not restricted in their billing because of successful appeals of the restrictions or the timing of their contract renewals. Self-referral rates were compared between the period 12 months before and 25 months after the program was initiated using t tests. The preprogram and postprogram self-referral rate for computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in aggregate was calculated both for the physicians that came into contact with the program and nationally, and then was stratified based on physician appeal status and reimbursement restrictions.

Results

The program was associated with significantly less frequent self-referrals by physicians whose appeals were denied (17.4%–8.2%; P = 0.0011) and by physicians notified of the program but not subject to it (24.8%–18.5%; P = 0.026). Self-referrals in the program states declined from 19.9% to 13.7% (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

A significant reduction in image interpretations billed by physicians working outside of the scope of their training occurred after the implementation of the imaging interpretation criteria program.
Fatal Congenital Retroperitoneal Neuroblastoma Diagnosed by Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Snyder Elizabeth , Jelin Angie C. , Huisman Thierry A.G.M. , Hooper Jody E. , Tekes Aylin
Published: December 2016

Congenital extra-adrenal neuroblastoma is a rare condition, which typically has a favorable prognosis. We present a unique case of extra-adrenal retroperitoneal neuroblastoma diagnosed by fetal magnetic resonance imaging, which ultimately leads to fetal hydrops and neonatal death.
Structural and Functional Correlates of Myocardial T1 Mapping in 321 Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chu Linda C. , Corona-Villalobos Celia P. , Halushka Marc K. , Zhang Yan , Pozzessere Chiara , Kamel Ihab R. , Pozios Iraklis , Van Der Geest Rob J. , Gai Neville , Abraham Roselle M. , Abraham Theodore P. , Bluemke David A. , Zimmerman Stefan L.
Published: December 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the structural and functional correlates of T1 mapping in 321 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Methods

Three hundred twenty-one patients with HCM who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance from 2003 to 2013 were retrospectively identified from our institution's HCM registry. Left ventricular volume, function, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), and Look-Locker T1 time were quantified. T1 time was normalized to blood pool to calculate T1 ratio. Correlations between LGE%, T1 ratio, and structural and functional features were performed using Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

Late gadolinium enhancement showed stronger correlation with left ventricular mass index (r = 0.41,P< 0.001) compared with T1 ratio (r = −0.17,P= 0.004). Both LGE% and T1 ratio correlated with ejection fraction (r = −0.18 andP= 0.002 vs r = 0.21 andP< 0.001, respectively). E/e' showed correlation with LGE% but not with T1 ratio.

Conclusions

Late gadolinium enhancement was more strongly correlated with the phenotypic expression of HCM compared with T1 ratio.
Automated Infarct Core Volumetry Within the Hypoperfused Tissue: Technical Implementation and Evaluation
Authors: Kellner Elias , Reisert Marco , Kiselev Valerij G. , Maurer Christoph J. , Beume Lena-Alexandra , Urbach Horst , Egger Karl
Published: December 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a rapid and fully automatic infarct core and tissue at risk volumetry approach in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

We evaluated an algorithm in which segmentation was restricted to 1 hemisphere and the potential lesion characterized on the basis of the perfusion parameter Tmax with a region-wise comparison of local histograms to its mirrored counterpart.

Results

We applied the “Tmax inside” method to 30 cases of a public data set with ground-truth segmentations for diffusion-weighted and perfusion magnetic resonance imaging. Lesions were robustly identified with significantly higher dice coefficients (apparent diffusion coefficient, 0.83 ± 0.22; Tmax, 0.80 ± 0.05, compared with 0.53 ± 0.27 and 0.56 ± 0.18) than for a global thresholding approach.

Conclusions

The proposed “Tmax inside” method is superior to the commonly used global thresholding approach. Furthermore, the method allows evaluating changes in cerebral blood volume and blood flow by taking the counterpart in the healthy hemisphere as a patient-individual reference.
Imaging of the Postsurgical Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Latson Larry A. , DeAnda Abe , Ko Jane P.
Published: December 2016

Techniques for repair of the aorta currently include open and endovascular methods, hybrid approaches, minimally-invasive techniques, and aortic branch vessel reimplantation or bypass. Collaboration among radiologists and vascular and cardiothoracic surgeons is essential. An awareness of the various surgical techniques, expected postoperative appearance, and potential complications is essential for radiologists. This review will cover the postoperative appearance of the thoracic aorta with a focus on the ascending aorta. The value of three-dimensional image evaluation will also be emphasized.
MR-Base: a platform for systematic causal inference across the phenome using billions of genetic associations
Authors: Hemani Gibran , Zheng Jie , Wade Kaitlin H , Laurin Charles , Elsworth Benjamin , Burgess Stephen , Bowden Jack , Langdon Ryan , Tan Vanessa , Yarmolinsky James , Shihab Hashem A. , Timpson Nicholas , Evans David M , Relton Caroline , Martin Richard M , Davey Smith George , Gaunt Tom R , Haycock Philip C
Published: December 2016

Published genetic associations can be used to infer causal relationships between phenotypes, bypassing the need for individual-level genotype or phenotype data. We have curated complete summary data from 1094 genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on diseases and other complex traits into a centralised database, and developed an analytical platform that uses these data to perform Mendelian randomization (MR) tests and sensitivity analyses (MR-Base,http://www.mrbase.org). Combined with curated data of published GWAS hits for phenomic measures, the MR-Base platform enables millions of potential causal relationships to be evaluated. We use the platform to predict the impact of lipid lowering on human health. While our analysis provides evidence that reducing LDL-cholesterol, lipoprotein(a) or triglyceride levels reduce coronary disease risk, it also suggests causal effects on a number of other non-vascular outcomes, indicating potential for adverse-effects or drug repositioning of lipid-lowering therapies.
Ghrelin-Reactive Autoantibodies are elevated in Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Crisp Gabrielle , Nyunt Ohn , Chopin Lisa , Seim Inge , Harris Mark , Jeffery Penny
Published: December 2016

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a complex genetic disorder characterized by developmental and growth abnormalities, insatiable appetite, and excessive eating (hyperphagia). The underlying cause of hyperphagia in PWS is currently unknown, however, elevated levels of the peptide hormone ghrelin is believed to contribute. Recently, ghrelin-reactive autoantibodies (isotype IgG) were identified in non-genetic obesity. These autoantibodies act as ghrelin carrier proteins and potentiate its orexigenic effects. Here, we describe the identification of ghrelin-reactive autoantibodies in a cohort of 16 children with PWS. In comparison to unaffected siblings, autoantibody levels are significantly increased in PWS children. We further show that autoantibody levels are unaffected by food intake, unlike plasma ghrelin which declines postprandially in both groups. Critically, we also demonstrate that the autoantibodies bind the major circulating ghrelin isoforms, unacylated ghrelin, which does not stimulate appetite, and the orexigen acylated ghrelin. In excess, unacylated ghrelin may compete with acylated ghrelin for autoantibody binding. Taken together, this is the first report on ghrelin-reactive antibodies in a pediatric population, and the first to demonstrate that the antibodies do not discriminate between orexigenic and non-orexigenic ghrelin isoforms. Our work suggests that ghrelin autoantibodies can be targeted using non-orexigenic forms of ghrelin, thereby providing a novel therapeutic target for PWS and for obesity in general.
Top-Down Feedback Controls Spatial Summation and Response Gain in Primate Visual Cortex
Authors: Nurminen Lauri , Merlin Sam , Bijanzadeh Maryam , Federer Frederick , Angelucci Alessandra
Published: December 2016

In the cerebral cortex, sensory information travels along feedforward connections through a hierarchy of areas, which, in turn, send a denser network of feedback connections to lower-order areas. Feedback has been implicated in attention, expectation, and sensory context, but the cellular mechanisms underlying these diverse feedback functions are unknown. Using specific optogenetic inactivation of feedback connections in the primate visual cortex, we have identified the cellular mechanisms of feedback-mediated modulations of early sensory processing. Specifically, we found that feedback modulates receptive field size, surround suppression and response gain, similar to the modulatory effects of visual spatial attention. A recurrent network model captured these effects. These feedback-mediated modulations allow higher-order cortical areas to dynamically regulate spatial resolution, sensitivity to image features, and efficiency of coding natural images in lower-order cortical areas.
Genome-wide association study in Collaborative Cross mice reveals a role forRhbdf2in skeletal homeostasis
Authors: Levy Roei , Levet Clemence , Cohen Keren , Freeman Matthew , Mott Richard , Iraqi Fuad , Gabet Yankel
Published: December 2016

Osteoporosis, the most common bone disease, is characterized by a low bone mass and increased risk of fractures. Importantly, individuals with the same bone mineral density (BMD), as measured on two dimensional (2D) radiographs, have different risks for fracture, suggesting that microstructural architecture is an important determinant of skeletal strength. Here we took advantage of the rich phenotypic and genetic diversity of the Collaborative Cross (CC) mice. Using microcomputed tomography, we examined key structural parameters in the femoral cortical and trabecular compartments of male and female mice from 34 CC lines. These traits included the trabecular bone volume fraction, number, thickness, connectivity, and spacing, as well as structural morphometric index. In the mid-diaphyseal cortex, we recorded cortical thickness and volumetric BMD.

The broad-sense heritability of these traits ranged between 50 to 60%. We conducted a genome-wide association study to unravel 5 quantitative trait loci (QTL) significantly associated with 6 of the traits. We refined each locus by combining information obtained from the known ancestry of the mice and RNA-Seq data from publicly available sources, to shortlist potential candidate genes. We found strong evidence for new candidate genes, includingRhbdf2, which association to trabecular bone volume fraction and number was strongly suggested by our analyses. We then examined knockout mice, and validated the causal action ofRhbdf2on bone mass accrual and microarchitecture.

Our approach revealed new genome-wide QTLs and a series of genes that have never been associated with bone microarchitecture. This study demonstrates for the first time the skeletal role ofRhbdf2on the physiological remodeling of both the cortical and trabecular bone. This newly assigned function forRhbdf2can prove useful in deciphering the predisposing factors of osteoporosis and propose new investigative avenues toward targeted therapeutic solutions.

Author summary

In this study, we used the novel mouse reference population, the Collaborative Cross (CC), to identify new causal genes in the regulation of bone microarchitecture, a critical determinant of bone strength. This approach provides a clear advantage in terms of resolution and dimensionality of the morphometric features (versus humans) and rich allelic diversity (versus classical mouse populations), over current practices of bone-related genome-wide association studies.

Our genome-wide study revealed 5 loci significantly associated with microstructural traits in the cortical and trabecular bone. We found strong evidence for new candidate genes, in particular,Rhbdf2.We then validated the specific role ofRhbdf2on bone mass accrual and microarchitecture using knockout mice. Importantly, this study is the first demonstration of a physiological role forRhbdf2.
Resolving Biology Beyond the Diffraction Limit with Single-Molecule Localization Microscopy
Authors: Rafiei Nafiseh , Nino Daniel , Milstein Joshua N.
Published: December 2016

Optical imaging provides a window into the microscopic world, but the level of observable detail is ultimately limited by the wavelength of light being employed. By harnessing the physics of photoswitchable dyes and fluorescent proteins, single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) provides a window into the nano-world of biology. This mini-review article provides a short overview of SMLM and discusses some of its prospects for the future.
Induction of multiple cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses in mice by a multiepitope DNA vaccine against dengue virus serotype 1
Authors: Chen Xin Yu , Li De Zhou , Zhong Xiao Zhi , Chen Bokun , Duan Zhi Liang , Wen Jin Sheng
Published: December 2016

Dengue virus (DENV) is still a major threat to human health in most tropical and subtropical countries and regions. In the present study, a multi‐epitope DNA vaccine that encodes 15 immunogenic and conserved HLA‐A*0201‐, HLA‐A*1101‐, HLA‐A*2402‐restricted CTL epitopes from DENV serotype 1 (DENV‐1) was constructed based on the eukaryotic expressing plasmid pcDNATM3.1/myc‐His(−) A. Immunization of HLA‐A*0201, HLA‐A*1101 and HLA‐A*2402 transgenic mice with the recombinant plasmid pcDNATM3.1/myc‐His(−) A‐DENV‐1‐Meg resulted in significantly greater IFN‐γ‐secreting T‐cell responses against most (14/15) CTL epitopes than occurred in mice immunized with the empty plasmid pcDNATM3.1/myc‐His(−) A. Additionally, the epitope‐specific T cells directed to some epitopes secreted not only IFN‐γ but also IL‐6 and/or TNF‐α. Finally, the induced epitope‐specific T cells also efficiently lysed epitope‐pulsed splenocytes and DENV‐1‐infected splenic monocytes. The present study confirms the immunogenicity of multi‐epitope DENV vaccine, suggesting that it may contribute to the development of a universal DENV vaccine.
Perturbation‐based moveout approximations in anisotropic media
Authors: Xu Shibo , Stovas Alexey , Hao Qi
Published: December 2016

The moveout approximations play an important role in seismic data processing. The standard hyperbolic moveout approximation is based on an elliptical background model with two velocities: vertical and normal moveout. We propose a new set of moveout approximations based on a perturbation series in terms of anellipticity parameters using the alternative elliptical background model defined by vertical and horizontal velocities. We start with a transversely isotropic medium with a vertical symmetry axis. Then, we extend this approach to a homogeneous orthorhombic medium. To define the perturbation coefficients for a new background, we solve the eikonal equation with horizontal velocities in transversely isotropic medium with a vertical symmetry axis and orthorhombic media. To stabilise the perturbation series and improve the accuracy, the Shanks transform is applied for all the cases. We select different parameterisations for both velocities and anellipticity parameters for an orthorhombic model. From the comparison in traveltime error, the new moveout approximations result in better accuracy comparing with the standard perturbation‐based methods and other approximations.
A synthesis of empirical plant dispersal kernels
Authors: Bullock James M. , Mallada González Laura , Tamme Riin , Götzenberger Lars , White Steven M. , Pärtel Meelis , Hooftman Danny A. P.
Published: December 2016

Dispersal is fundamental to ecological processes at all scales and levels of organization, but progress is limited by a lack of information about the general shape and form of plant dispersal kernels. We addressed this gap by synthesizing empirical data describing seed dispersal and fitting general dispersal kernels representing major plant types and dispersal modes.

A comprehensive literature search resulted in 107 papers describing 168 dispersal kernels for 144 vascular plant species. The data covered 63 families, all the continents except Antarctica, and the broad vegetation types of forest, grassland, shrubland and more open habitats (e.g. deserts). We classified kernels in terms of dispersal mode (ant, ballistic, rodent, vertebrates other than rodents, vehicle or wind), plant growth form (climber, graminoid, herb, shrub or tree), seed mass and plant height.

We fitted 11 widely used probability density functions to each of the 168 data sets to provide a statistical description of the dispersal kernel. The exponential power (ExP) and log‐sech (LogS) functions performed best. Other 2‐parameter functions varied in performance. For example, the log‐normal and Weibull performed poorly, while the 2Dt and power law performed moderately well. Of the single‐parameter functions, the Gaussian performed very poorly, while the exponential performed better. No function was among the best‐fitting for all data sets.

For 10 plant growth form/dispersal mode combinations for which we had >3 data sets, we fitted ExP and LogS functions across multiple data sets to provide generalized dispersal kernels. We also fitted these functions to subdivisions of these growth form/dispersal mode combinations in terms of seed mass (for animal‐dispersed seeds) or plant height (wind‐dispersed) classes. These functions provided generally good fits to the grouped data sets, despite variation in empirical methods, local conditions, vegetation type and the exact dispersal process.

Synthesis. We synthesize the rich empirical information on seed dispersal distances to provide standardized dispersal kernels for 168 case studies and generalized kernels for plant growth form/dispersal mode combinations. Potential uses include the following: (i) choosing appropriate dispersal functions in mathematical models; (ii) selecting informative dispersal kernels for one's empirical study system; and (iii) using representative dispersal kernels in cross‐taxon comparative studies.
Demographic and spatial determinants of hybridization rate
Authors: Klein Etienne K. , Lagache‐Navarro Lélia , Petit Rémy J.
Published: December 2016

Hybridization is a key evolutionary process with major consequences for conservation and speciation. However, sexual barriers interact with the local context to determine hybridization rates in a way that is still poorly explored. For instance, in the context of an expanding or introduced plant population, where a few individuals are isolated in populations dominated by heterospecific individuals, what is the hybridization potential?

To obtain baseline predictions on hybridization rate between two species differing in abundance and to evaluate the effect of pollen limitation, we first used a mean‐field model. We then explored a spatially explicit individual‐based mating model relying on pollen dispersal kernels to predict hybridization rates in a mixed‐species stand, under different scenarios for (i) the strength of sexual barriers; (ii) the spatial distribution of individuals within the site; (iii) the variation in individual fecundity; and (iv) the magnitude, shape and asymmetry of pollen dispersal kernels.

Pollen limitation was shown to have the potential to greatly increase hybridization rates. Similarly, fine‐scale variation in species composition can result in elevated hybridization rates compared to mean‐field predictions, especially with strong sexual barriers. However, species clustering in combination with reduced pollen dispersal has the opposite effect, protecting from hybridization.

Synthesis. Our simulation results show that variation of the pollen pool composition at the scale of individuals or stigmas due to spatial configurations or pollen limitation can substantially modify hybridization rates. We explain this by the disproportionate effect of some pollen environments on average hybridization rates. This suggests thoroughly evaluating individual behaviour in terms of hybridization, especially for rare or patchy species.
Pervasive human‐mediated large‐scale invasion: analysis of spread patterns and their underlying mechanisms in 17 of China's worst invasive plants
Authors: Horvitz Nir , Wang Rui , Wan Fang‐Hao , Nathan Ran
Published: December 2016

Biological invasions constitute a major component of human‐induced environmental change and have become a world‐wide problem threatening global biodiversity and incurring massive economic costs. Consequently, research on biological invasions proliferates, placing a major emphasis on species traits and habitat characteristics associated with successful invasion. Yet, the mechanisms underlying rapid spread and the resulting patterns remain largely unexplored.

Using data collected since 1980 and earlier at the county level all over China, we studied the contribution of potential dispersal vectors – railroads, rail stations, roads, general human activity, rivers and winds – to the spread of 17 of China's worst invasive plant species. Focusing on long‐distance dispersal events, we calculated the minimal arrival speed for the first record of each species in each county. We also developed and applied a new method to account for observation bias due to the proximity to roads, using observational data of 776 native (non‐invasive) plant species throughout China.

We found that human‐related vectors are accountable for the vast spread of all 17 invasive plant species we examined. Spread patterns were characterized by long jumps of tens to hundreds of kilometres and extremely fast average spread rates of roughly 2–4 km per year, and a very broad range (0·1–128·2 km per year) with high variability between years. These rates are much higher than those expected from classic dispersal vectors such as water, wind or animals. Commonly used fat‐tailed dispersal kernels did not fit the observed distribution of long jumps for any species.

Synthesis. We found pervasive empirical evidence for the overriding role of humans in the large‐scale spread of invasive plants from multiple taxa. The observed spread patterns differ significantly from those portrayed in the literature, emphasizing the need to develop new frameworks to explore large‐scale spread in general and invasive spread in particular. With public data sets of invasive species observations becoming increasingly more available, the time is ripe to go beyond exploration of species traits and habitat suitability and to examine the actual patterns and the mechanisms of large‐scale invasive spread, even at a scale of thousands of kilometres over land.
Plant energetics and the synthesis of population and ecosystem ecology
Authors: Fridley Jason D.
Published: December 2016

Historical conceptual divisions in ecology are dissolving as ecologists seek general currencies for understanding plant function, population dynamics, species interactions and ecosystem processes. Foremost among such synthetic approaches are population‐ecosystem models (PEMs), which treat the biomass dynamics of individuals as a foundation for coupled demographic and biogeochemical processes.

Because plant productivity and tissue composition drive terrestrial energy and nutrient cycling, and plant growth itself is often used as a fitness proxy, PEMs predict that phenomena related to population dynamics, such as species coexistence, are associated with processes at the ecosystem level. I argue that this line of thought reflects a persistent misunderstanding of the relationship of plant growth—the creation of new structural biomass—and individual fitness.

A survey of measured energetic costs of a wide variety of plant functions suggests that the majority of assimilated energy for many plants is allocated to survival rather than growth processes. This diversion of assimilate to survival—such as fighting infection, reducing potential tissue damage, or storing reserves in the face of defoliation risk—contributes to individual fitness but may not impact the flow of energy and nutrients in the environment or to other trophic levels.

Synthesis. Using simple models of plant energy budgets, I demonstrate how incorporating survival allocation into PEMs using a bet‐hedging approach can decouple population and ecosystem dynamics. In revisiting what little is known about how individual plants use energy, I suggest that recasting plant strategy theory in an energetic‐demographic framework may offer a useful way forward in the drive to unify population and ecosystem processes.
Servicer Contracts and the Design of Mortgage‐Backed Security Pools
Authors: Mooradian Robert M. , Pichler Pegaret
Published: December 2016

We develop a unified model of mortgage and servicer contracts. Renegotiating mortgage contracts following default is strictly Pareto improving, if the lender gathers updated information. An incentive compatible servicer contract requires the servicer to hold a risk position that has a value strictly greater than the cost of exerting effort. This risk position cannot in general be approximated with a horizontal “first‐loss” position. An alternative, forming a nondiversified pool, preserves pool‐wide information, avoids the cost of an incentive compatible servicer contract, and may increase MBS value.
Does temproray bilateral balloon occlusion of the common iliac arteries reduce the need for intra‐operative blood transfusion in cases of placenta accretism?
Authors: Al‐Hadethi Sinan , Fernando Shane , Hughes Simon , Thakorlal Ajay , Seruga Adam , Scurry Bonnie
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Bilateral balloon occlusion has been employed as a prophylactic measure in cases of placenta accretism prior to caesarean section with the aim of reducing blood loss and its associated morbidity/mortality. There is however no clear consensus on its efficacy in the current literature. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of bilateral balloon occlusion of the common iliac arteries (CIA) in reducing intra‐operative morbidity in cases of placenta accretism.

Methods

The databases of the pathology department and radiology interventional suite were reviewed over a nine year period. Fifty‐two cases of confirmed placental accretism who underwent caesarean section with or without hysterectomy were identified and divided into two groups. Twenty‐five cases had temporary occlusion of the common iliac arteries (CIA) during delivery and these were considered the study group. The reminder 27 cases did not have temporary occlusion of the CIA and were considered the control group. The two groups were compared based on gravidity, age group, post‐operative haemoglobin, drop in haemoglobin, estimated blood loss (EBL), transfusion requirement and the histopathological sub‐types of placenta accretism.

Results

There was no statistically difference between the study and the control groups regarding EBL, post‐operative haemoglobin drop, transfusion requirement or in the placenta accretism histopathological subtype. Two cases in the study group had acute thromboembolic complications. Both groups had a single patient requiring a massive intra‐operative transfusion.

Conclusion

Our study was not able to detect a significant difference in blood loss or blood product requirement between patients who underwent CIA balloon in the setting of caesarean section for placenta accreta. This remains a challenging scenario requiring a multidisciplinary approach.
Neuroimaging of chronic alcohol misuse
Authors: Logan Caitriona , Asadi Hamed , Kok Hong Kuan , Looby Seamus T , Brennan Paul , O'Hare Alan , Thornton John
Published: December 2016

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances worldwide. It results in a wide range of diseases and disorders affecting many organ systems. Alcohol‐related nutritional deficiencies and electrolyte disturbance leave chronic abusers at risk of a range of demyelinating conditions to which the radiologist and clinician should always be alert. These include Wernicke's encephalopathy, Korsakoff's syndrome, Marchiafava‐Bignami disease and osmotic demyelination. Cerebral volume loss is also a commonly encountered neuroimaging phenomenon in chronic alcohol abusers. Neuroimaging with CT and MR, with a focus on FLAIR and diffusion‐weighted MR sequences, play an important role in the diagnosis and often monitoring of these conditions. We present an educational review of these entities in terms of their clinical features, neuropathology and imaging features along with a case example of each condition.
A novel method to infer the origin of polyploids from Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism data reveals that the alpine polyploid complex of Senecio carniolicus (Asteraceae) evolved mainly via autopolyploidy
Authors: Winkler Manuela , Escobar García Pedro , Gattringer Andreas , Sonnleitner Michaela , Hülber Karl , Schönswetter Peter , Schneeweiss Gerald M.
Published: December 2016

Despite its evolutionary and ecological relevance, the mode of polyploid origin has been notoriously difficult to be reconstructed from molecular data. Here, we present a method to identify the putative parents of polyploids and thus to infer the mode of their origin (auto‐ vs. allopolyploidy) from Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) data. To this end, we use Cohen's d of distances between in silico polyploids, generated within a priori defined scenarios of origin from a priori delimited putative parental entities (e.g. taxa, genetic lineages), and natural polyploids. Simulations show that the discriminatory power of the proposed method increases mainly with increasing divergence between the lower‐ploid putative ancestors and less so with increasing delay of polyploidization relative to the time of divergence. We apply the new method to the Senecio carniolicus aggregate, distributed in the European Alps and comprising two diploid, one tetraploid and one hexaploid species. In the eastern part of its distribution, the S. carniolicus aggregate was inferred to comprise an autopolyploid series, whereas for western populations of the tetraploid species, an allopolyploid origin involving the two diploid species was the most likely scenario. Although this suggests that the tetraploid species has two independent origins, other evidence (ribotype distribution, morphology) is consistent with the hypothesis of an autopolyploid origin with subsequent introgression by the second diploid species. Altogether, identifying the best among alternative scenarios using Cohen's d can be straightforward, but particular scenarios, such as allopolyploid origin vs. autopolyploid origin with subsequent introgression, remain difficult to be distinguished.
eDNA metabarcoding: a promising method for anuran surveys in highly diverse tropical forests
Authors: Lopes Carla M. , Sasso Thais , Valentini Alice , Dejean Tony , Martins Marcio , Zamudio Kelly R. , Haddad Célio F. B.
Published: December 2016

Understanding the geographical distribution and community composition of species is crucial to monitor species persistence and define effective conservation strategies. Environmental DNA (eDNA) has emerged as a powerful noninvasive tool for species detection. However, most eDNA survey methods have been developed and applied in temperate zones. We tested the feasibility of using eDNA to survey anurans in tropical streams in the Brazilian Atlantic forest and compared the results with short‐term visual and audio surveys. We detected all nine species known to inhabit our focal streams with one single visit for eDNA sampling. We found a higher proportion of sequence reads and larger number of positive PCR replicates for more common species and for those with life cycles closely associated with the streams, factors that may contribute to increased release of DNA in the water. However, less common species were also detected in eDNA samples, demonstrating the detection power of this method. Filtering larger volumes of water resulted in a higher probability of detection. Our data also show it is important to sample multiple sites along streams, particularly for detection of target species with lower population densities. For the three focal species in our study, the eDNA metabarcoding method had a greater capacity of detection per sampling event than our rapid field surveys, and thus, has the potential to circumvent some of the challenges associated with traditional approaches. Our results underscore the utility of eDNA metabarcoding as an efficient method to survey anuran species in tropical streams of the highly biodiverse Brazilian Atlantic forest.
Detecting invertebrate species in archived collections using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Carew Melissa E. , Metzeling Leon , St Clair Rosalind , Hoffmann Ary A.
Published: December 2016

Invertebrate biodiversity measured at mostly family level is widely used in biological monitoring programmes to assess anthropogenic impacts on ecosystems. However, next‐generation sequencing (NGS) could allow development of new more sensitive biomonitoring tools by allowing rapid species identification. This could be accelerated if archived invertebrate collections and environmental information from past programmes are used to understand species distributions and their environmental responses. In this study, we take archived macroinvertebrate samples from two sites collected on multiple occasions and test whether NGS can successfully detect species. Samples had been stored in 70% ethanol at room temperature for up to 12 years. Three amplicons ranging from 197 to 274 bps within the DNA barcode region were amplified from samples and compared to DNA barcoding libraries to identify species. We were able to amplify partial DNA barcodes from most samples, and species were often detected with multiple amplicons. However, some singletons and taxa poorly covered by DNA barcoding were missed. This suggests additional DNA barcodes will be required to fill ‘gaps’ in current DNA barcode libraries for aquatic macroinvertebrates and/or that it may not be possible to detect all taxa in a sample. Furthermore, older samples often detected fewer taxa and were less reliable for amplification, suggesting NGS is best used on samples within 8 years of collection. Nevertheless, many common taxa with existing DNA barcodes were reliably identified with NGS and were often present at sites across multiple years, showing the potential of NGS for detecting common and abundant species in archived material.
Fetal Alcohol Exposure Alters Blood Flow and Neurological Responses to Transient Cerebral Ischemia in Adult Mice
Authors: Bake Shameena , Gardner Rachel , Tingling Joseph D. , Miranda Rajesh C. , Sohrabji Farida
Published: December 2016

Background

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can result in physical and neurocognitive deficits that are collectively termed “fetal alcohol spectrum disorders” (FASD). Although FASD is associated with lifelong intellectual disability, the mechanisms mediating the emergence of secondary mental health and physical disabilities are poorly understood. Based on our previous data showing that maternal ethanol (EtOH) exposure in mice resulted in an immediate reduction in cranially directed fetal blood flow, we hypothesized that such exposure would also result in persistent alterations in cranially directed blood flow in the prenatally alcohol‐exposed (PAE) adult. We also hypothesized that PAE adults exposed to an acute cerebrovascular insult would exhibit more brain damage and neurobehavioral impairment compared to non‐PAE adult controls.

Methods

Pregnant C57BL/6 mice were exposed to EtOH, 3 g/kg, or water by intragastric gavage. Blood flow in carotid, renal, and femoral arteries was assessed by ultrasound imaging in PAE and control adults at 3, 6, and 12 months of age. To mimic ischemic stroke in young adult populations, 3‐month‐old PAE and control animals were subject to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) and subsequently assessed for behavioral recovery, stroke infarct volume, and brain cytokine profiles.

Results

PAE resulted in a significant age‐related decrease in blood acceleration in adult mice, specifically in the carotid artery. A unilateral transient MCAo resulted in equivalent cortico‐striatal damage in both PAE and control adults. However, PAE adult mice exhibited significantly decreased poststroke behavioral recovery compared to controls.

Conclusions

Our data collectively show that PAE adult mice exhibit a persistent, long‐term loss of cranially directed blood flow, and decreased capacity to compensate for brain trauma due to acute‐onset adult diseases like ischemic stroke.
Solar radiation increases suicide rate after adjusting for other climate factors in South Korea
Authors: Jee Hee‐Jung , Cho Chul‐Hyun , Lee Yu Jin , Choi Nari , An Hyonggin , Lee Heon‐Jeong
Published: December 2016

Objective

Previous studies have indicated that suicide rates have significant seasonal variations. There is seasonal discordance between temperature and solar radiation due to the monsoon season in South Korea. We investigated the seasonality of suicide and assessed its association with climate variables in South Korea.

Method

Suicide rates were obtained from the National Statistical Office of South Korea, and climatic data were obtained from the Korea Meteorological Administration for the period of 1992–2010. We conducted analyses using a generalized additive model (GAM). First, we explored the seasonality of suicide and climate variables such as mean temperature, daily temperature range, solar radiation, and relative humidity. Next, we identified confounding climate variables associated with suicide rate. To estimate the adjusted effect of solar radiation on the suicide rate, we investigated the confounding variables using a multivariable GAM.

Results

Suicide rate showed seasonality with a pattern similar to that of solar radiation. We found that the suicide rate increased 1.008 times when solar radiation increased by 1 MJ/m2 after adjusting for other confounding climate factors (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Solar radiation has a significant linear relationship with suicide after adjusting for region, other climate variables, and time trends.
Childhood trauma and mixed episodes are associated with poor response to lithium in bipolar disorders
Authors: Etain B. , Lajnef M. , Brichant‐Petitjean C. , Geoffroy P. A. , Henry C. , Gard S. , Kahn J. P. , Leboyer M. , Young A. H. , Bellivier F.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Reliable predictors of response to lithium are still lacking in bipolar disorders (BDs). However, childhood trauma has been hypothesized to be associated with poor response to lithium.

Methods

We included 148 patients with BD, euthymic when retrospectively and clinically assessed for response to lithium and childhood trauma using reliable scales.

Results

According to the ‘Alda scale’, the sample consisted in 20.3% of excellent responders, 49.3% of partial responders and 30.4% of non‐responders to lithium. A higher level of physical abuse significantly correlated with a lower level of response to lithium (P = 0.009). As compared to patients not exposed to any abuse, patients with at least two trauma abuses (emotional, physical or sexual) were more at risk of belonging to the non‐responders group (OR = 4.91 95% CI (1.01–27.02)). Among investigated clinical variables, lifetime presence of mixed episodes and alcohol misuse were associated with non‐response to lithium. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that physical abuse and mixed episodes were independently associated with poor response to lithium (P = 0.005 and P = 0.013 respectively).

Conclusions

Childhood physical abuse might be involved in a poor future response to lithium prophylaxis, this effect being independent of the association between clinical expression of BD and poor response to lithium.
Why the mechanisms of 12‐Step behaviour change should matter to clinicians
Authors: Best David
Published: December 2016

Commentary to: Is Alcoholics Anonymous religious, spiritual, neither? Findings from 25 years of mechanisms of behavior change research
Understanding the alcohol harm paradox: an analysis of sex‐ and condition‐specific hospital admissions by socio‐economic group for alcohol‐associated conditions in England
Authors: Sadler Susannah , Angus Colin , Gavens Lucy , Gillespie Duncan , Holmes John , Hamilton Jean , Brennan Alan , Meier Petra
Published: December 2016

Background and Aims

In many countries, conflicting gradients in alcohol consumption and alcohol‐associated mortality have been observed. To understand this ‘alcohol harm paradox’ we analysed the socio‐economic gradient in alcohol‐associated hospital admissions to test whether it was greater in conditions which were: (1) chronic (associated with long‐term drinking) and partially alcohol‐attributable, (2) chronic and wholly alcohol‐attributable, (3) acute (associated with intoxication) and partially alcohol‐attributable and (4) acute and wholly alcohol‐attributable. Our aim was to clarify how (1) drinking patterns (e.g. intoxication linked to acute admissions or dependence linked to chronic conditions) and (2) non‐alcohol causes (e.g. smoking and poor diet which are risks for partially alcohol‐attributable conditions) contribute to the paradox.

Design

Regression analysis testing the modifying effects of condition‐group (1–4 above) and sex on the relationship between area‐based deprivation and admissions.

Setting

England, April 2010–March 2013.

Participants

A total of 9 239 629 English hospital admissions where a primary or secondary cause was one of 36 alcohol‐associated conditions.

Measurements

Admissions by condition and deciles of Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD). Socio‐economic gradient measured as the relative index of inequality (RII, the slope of a linear regression of IMD on admissions adjusted for overall admission rate). Conditions were categorized by ICD‐10 code.

Findings

A socio‐economic gradient in hospitalizations was seen for all conditions, except partially attributable chronic conditions. The gradient was significantly steeper for conditions which were wholly attributable to alcohol and for acute conditions than for conditions partially alcohol‐attributable and for chronic conditions. Gradients were steeper for men than for women in cases of wholly alcohol attributable conditions.

Conclusions

There is a socio‐economic gradient in English hospital admission for most alcohol‐associated conditions. The greatest inequalities are in conditions associated with alcohol dependence, such as liver disease and mental and behavioural conditions, and in acute conditions, such as alcohol poisoning and assault. Socio‐economic differences in harmful drinking patterns (dependence and intoxication) may contribute to the ‘alcohol harm paradox’.
The costs of crime during and after publicly funded treatment for opioid use disorders: a population‐level study for the state of California
Authors: Krebs Emanuel , Urada Darren , Evans Elizabeth , Huang David , Hser Yih‐Ing , Nosyk Bohdan
Published: December 2016

Background and aims

Treatment for opioid use disorders (OUD) reduces the risk of mortality and infectious disease transmission; however, opportunities to quantify the potential economic benefits of associated decreases in drug‐related crime are scarce. This paper aimed to estimate the costs of crime during and after periods of engagement in publicly funded treatment for OUD to compare total costs of crime during a hypothetical 6‐month period following initiation of opioid agonist treatment (OAT) versus detoxification.

Design

Retrospective, administrative data‐based cohort study with comprehensive information on drug treatment and criminal justice systems interactions.

Setting

Publicly funded drug treatment facilities in California, USA (2006–10).

Participants

A total of 31 659 individuals admitted for the first time to treatment for OUD, and who were linked with criminal justice and mortality data, were followed during a median 2.3 years. Median age at first treatment admission was 32, 35.8% were women and 37.1% primarily used prescription opioids.

Measurements

Daily costs of crime (US$2014) were calculated from a societal perspective and were composed of the costs of policing, court, corrections and criminal victimization. We estimated the average marginal effect of treatment engagement in OAT or detoxification adjusting for potential fixed and time‐varying confounders, including drug use and criminal justice system involvement prior to treatment initiation.

Findings

Daily costs of crime during treatment compared with after treatment were $126 lower for OAT [95% confidence interval (CI) = $116, $136] and $144 lower for detoxification (95% CI = $135, $154). Summing the costs of crime during and after treatment over a hypothetical 6‐month period using the observed median durations of OAT (161 days) and detoxification (19 days), we estimated that enrolling an individual in OAT as opposed to detoxification would save $17 550 ($16 840, $18 383).

Conclusions

In publicly funded drug treatment facilities in California, USA, engagement in treatment for opioid use disorders is associated with lower costs of crime in the 6 months following initiation of treatment, and the economic benefits were far greater for individuals receiving time‐unlimited treatment.