bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene pool transmission of multidrug resistance among Campylobacter from livestock, sewage and human disease
Authors: Mourkas Evangelos , Florez‐Cuadrado Diego , Pascoe Ben , Calland Jessica K. , Bayliss Sion C. , Mageiros Leonardos , Méric Guillaume , Hitchings Matthew D. , Quesada Alberto , Porrero Concepción , Ugarte‐Ruiz María , Gutiérrez‐Fernández José , Domínguez Lucas , Sheppard Samuel K.
Published: August 2019

The use of antimicrobials in human and veterinary medicine has coincided with a rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the food‐borne pathogens Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli. Faecal contamination from the main reservoir hosts (livestock, especially poultry) is the principal route of human infection but little is known about the spread of AMR among source and sink populations. In particular, questions remain about how Campylobacter resistomes interact between species and hosts, and the potential role of sewage as a conduit for the spread of AMR. Here, we investigate the genomic variation associated with AMR in 168 C. jejuni and 92 C. coli strains isolated from humans, livestock and urban effluents in Spain. AMR was tested in vitro and isolate genomes were sequenced and screened for putative AMR genes and alleles. Genes associated with resistance to multiple drug classes were observed in both species and were commonly present in multidrug‐resistant genomic islands (GIs), often located on plasmids or mobile elements. In many cases, these loci had alleles that were shared among C. jejuni and C. coli consistent with horizontal transfer. Our results suggest that specific antibiotic resistance genes have spread among Campylobacter isolated from humans, animals and the environment.
Whither gynaecology revisited?
Authors: Thorp John M.
Published: August 2019

Deputy Editor‐in‐Chief, Dr John M. Thorp, discusses the latest thinking in women's health and highlights articles from this issue in an audio podcast available at: https://soundcloud.com/bjog/September-editorial-2019
Amygdala Arginine Vasopressin Modulates Chronic Ethanol Withdrawal Anxiety‐Like Behavior in the Social Interaction Task
Authors: Harper Kathryn M. , Knapp Darin J. , Butler Ryan K. , Cook Cory A. , Criswell Hugh E. , Stuber Garret D. , Breese George R.
Published: August 2019

Background

Chronic ethanol (EtOH) exposure induces neurobehavioral maladaptations in the brain though the precise changes have not been fully explored. The central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA) regulates anxiety‐like behavior induced by withdrawal from chronic intermittent EtOH (CIE) exposure, and the arginine vasopressin (AVP) system within the CEA regulates many anxiety‐like behaviors. Thus, adaptations occur in the CEA AVP system due to chronic EtOH exposure, which lead to anxiety‐like behaviors in rats.

Methods

Chronic exposure to a low‐dose EtOH (4.5% wt/vol) induces anxiety‐like behavior in rats. Wistar or Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a modified CIE or CIE, while intra‐CEA microinjections of AVP or a V1b receptor antagonist were used to elicit or block withdrawal‐induced anxiety. Additionally, AVP microinjections into the CEA were given 24 hours following 15 days of continuous high‐dose EtOH (7% wt/vol), a time period when rats no longer express anxiety. Chemogenetics was also used to activate the basolateral amygdala (BLA) or deactivate the dorsal periaqueductal gray=(dm/dlPAG) therefore PAG=periaqueductal gray to elicit or block withdrawal‐induced anxiety.

Results

AVP microinjected into the CEA in lieu of exposure to the first 2 cycles of CIE was sufficient to induce anxiety‐like behavior in these commonly used rat strains. The V1b receptor antagonist, but not an oxytocin receptor agonist, into the CEA during the first 2 withdrawal cycles suppressed anxiety. However, activation of the BLA in lieu of exposure to the first 2 cycles of CIE was insufficient to induce anxiety‐like behavior. AVP microinjection into the CEA 24 hours into withdrawal reelicited anxiety‐like behavior, and deactivation of the dm/dlPAG reduced this effect of CEA AVP.

Conclusions

Taken together, this study demonstrates a role of CEA AVP and a CEA‐dm/dlPAG circuit in the development of anxiety induced by CIE. Such information is valuable for identifying novel therapeutic targets for alcohol‐ and anxiety‐associated disorders.
The Use of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Test Pharmacotherapies for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Grodin Erica N. , Ray Lara A.
Published: August 2019

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing condition that represents a significant public health concern. Pharmacological treatment development for AUD is a top research priority, and many studies are being conducted to evaluate potential AUD treatments. Understanding the brain circuitry impacted by addiction is crucial for the development of efficacious pharmacological interventions. These neuroadaptations can be probed noninvasively using functional magnetic resonance neuroimaging (fMRI). fMRI may be an effective tool to identify biomarkers for AUD pharmacotherapies, evaluating changes associated with pharmacological treatment. Thus, the present qualitative review of the literature focuses on the role of fMRI as a tool for medication development for AUD. The aim of this review was to assemble research across a range of fMRI paradigms to study the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments of adult AUD. First, we present a qualitative review of fMRI AUD pharmacotherapy studies, differentiating studies based on their dosing regimen. Second, we provide recommendations for the field to improve the use of fMRI as a biomarker for AUD pharmacotherapy.
Epigenome‐Wide DNA Methylation Association Analysis Identified Novel Loci in Peripheral Cells for Alcohol Consumption Among European American Male Veterans
Authors: Xu Ke , Montalvo‐Ortiz Janitza L. , Zhang Xinyu , Southwick Steven M. , Krystal John H. , Pietrzak Robert H. , Gelernter Joel
Published: August 2019

Background

Hazardous alcohol consumption has significant adverse medical consequences. These effects may be mediated, in part, by alterations in DNA methylation. Thus, DNA methylation signatures in peripheral cells may provide biomarkers of the medical impact of alcohol use and the risk for future alcohol consumption.

Method

Using a high‐density methylation array, we characterized epigenome‐wide DNA methylation in saliva cells with respect to alcohol consumption in a large cohort of male European American veterans. In this study, DNA methylation of over 870,000 CpG DNA sites was profiled in 1,135 European American men. Alcohol consumption was assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test‐Consumption (AUDIT‐C). Linear regression was applied in an epigenome‐wide association study (EWAS), adjusted for confounders. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed in the KEGG database with a correction for gene length.

Results

We found that a total of 70 CpG sites reached EWAS‐corrected significance (p < 6E‐08) with small effects on alcohol consumption for individual CpG sites, including 64 new CpG sites and 6 CpG sites that were previously reported as associated with alcohol use disorder, liver function, body mass index, and lipid metabolism. The most significant CpG site was located in SLC7A11 (t = −11.34, p = 2.66E‐28), a gene involved specifically in cysteine and glutamate transportation. The 70 significant CpG sites were located on 44 genes, including genes involved in amino acid transport and metabolism systems. We identified 68 pathways with a false discovery rate < 0.05.

Conclusions

We identified novel DNA methylation sites associated with alcohol consumption. Results may shed light on peripheral mechanisms of alcohol consumption on adverse health outcomes among heavy drinkers.
Efficacy of a Web‐Based Screening and Brief Intervention to Prevent Problematic Alcohol Use in Korea: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jo Sun‐Jin , Lee Hae Kook , Kang Kyonghwa , Joe Keun Ho , Lee Soo‐Bi
Published: August 2019

Background

Web‐based alcohol screenings and brief interventions have been shown to be effective methods for changing drinking behavior. This study evaluated the efficacy of the online‐based Brief Empowerment Program for Alcohol‐Use Monitor (on‐BEAM), a brief intervention applying personalized normative feedback (PNF) and components of motivational interviewing (MI) techniques.

Methods

A community‐based, double‐blind, parallel‐group randomized controlled trial with individual randomization was conducted in Korea (registered at Clinical Research Information Service—KCT0003050). An e‐mail about participating in a survey on drinking behavior was sent to 5,684 individuals, aged 20 to 40, that were registered as part of a research panel. Male and female participants with AUDIT‐C scores of ≥4 and ≥3, respectively, were randomly assigned to either an intervention (received a drinking behavior assessment and the results with normative feedback) or control group (assessment and results without normative feedback). To evaluate the effects of the intervention with 2 sessions over the course of a month, a follow‐up assessment was performed online 4 weeks after completion of the intervention. The main outcome was the number of standard drinks consumed during the past week measured using the timeline followback method. The rate ratios (RRs) were calculated to test the effects of the intervention.

Results

In total, 1,496 participants were randomized and 93% of them followed up. The intervention group reported consuming less alcohol during the past week (RR = 0.13; p = 0.012) than the control group. Additionally, the intervention group had fewer binge drinkers (RR = 0.69; p < 0.001) and a lower AUDIT‐C score (RR = 0.59; p = 0.009) than the control group.

Conclusions

The web‐based intervention, on‐BEAM, which applies PNF and MI components related to high‐risk drinking reduced the amount of alcohol consumption in our study population. Further research is needed to determine the duration of on‐BEAM's effects and evaluate its effectiveness in the real world.
Facilitating Screening and Brief Interventions in Primary Care: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of the AUDIT as an Indicator of Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Lange Shannon , Shield Kevin , Monteiro Maristela , Rehm Jürgen
Published: August 2019

Background

The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was developed for use in primary health care settings to identify hazardous and harmful patterns of alcohol consumption, and is often used to screen for alcohol use disorders (AUDs). This study examined the AUDIT as a screening tool for AUDs.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed of electronic bibliographic databases (CINAHL, Embase, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science) without language or geographic restrictions for original quantitative studies published before September 1, 2018, that assess the AUDIT's ability to screen for AUDs. Random‐effects meta‐regression models were constructed by sex to assess the potential determinants of the AUDIT's specificity and sensitivity. From these models and ecological data from the Global Information System on Alcohol and Health, the true‐ and false‐positive and true‐ and false‐negative proportions were determined. The number of people needed to be screened to treat 1 individual with an AUD was estimated for all countries globally where AUD data exist, using a specificity of 0.95.

Results

A total of 36 studies met inclusion criteria for the meta‐regression. The AUDIT score cut‐point was significantly associated with sensitivity and specificity. Standard drink size was found to affect the sensitivity and specificity of the AUDIT for men, but not among women. The AUDIT performs less well in identifying women compared to men, and countries with a low prevalence of AUDs have higher false‐positive rates compared to countries with a higher AUD prevalence.

Conclusions

The AUDIT does not perform well as a screening tool for identifying individuals with an AUD, especially in countries and among populations with a low AUD prevalence (e.g., among women), and thus should not be used for this purpose.
Risk of homelessness after discharge from psychiatric wards in Denmark: a nationwide register‐based cohort study
Authors: Nilsson S.F. , Laursen T.M. , Hjorthøj C. , Nordentoft M.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To examine the absolute and relative risk of homelessness following discharge from psychiatric wards in Denmark.

Methods

A nationwide, register‐based, cohort study including people aged 18+ years discharged from psychiatric wards in Denmark between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2015. We analysed associations between psychiatric diagnoses and risk of homelessness using survival analysis.

Results

A total of 126 848 psychiatric in‐patients were included accounting for 94 835 person‐years. The incidence of homelessness one year following discharge was 28.18 (95% CI 26.69−29.75) and 9.27 (95% CI 8.45−10.16) per 1000 person‐years at risk in men and women respectively. The one‐year cumulative probability of first homelessness after discharge from psychiatric wards was 1.58% (95% CI 1.48−1.68) in males and 0.55% (95% CI 0.50−0.61) in females. Substance use disorders increased the risk of homelessness after discharge with adjusted incidence rate ratios of 6.60 (95% CI 5.19−8.40) (men) and 13.06 (95% CI 9.31−18.33) (women), compared with depressive disorders. Prior history of homelessness was an important predictor for homelessness following discharge.

Conclusions

The first year following discharge from psychiatric wards is a high‐risk period of homelessness, especially when having a substance use disorder or a prior history of homeless shelter contact. Improved efforts to prevent homelessness are needed.
Colony‐stimulating factor 1 and its receptor are new potential therapeutic targets for allergic asthma
Authors: Moon Hyung‐Geun , Kim Seung‐jae , Lee Myoung Kyu , Kang Homan , Choi Hak Soo , Harijith Anantha , Ren Jinhong , Natarajan Viswanathan , Christman John W. , Ackerman Steven J. , Park Gye Young
Published: August 2019

Background

A new approach targeting aeroallergen sensing in the early events of mucosal immunity could have greater benefit. The CSF1‐CSF1R pathway has a critical role in trafficking allergens to regional lymph nodes through activating dendritic cells. Intervention in this pathway could prevent allergen sensitization and subsequent Th2 allergic inflammation.

Objective

To examine the therapeutic effectiveness of CSF1 and CSF1R inhibition for blocking the dendritic cell function of sensing aeroallergens.

Methods

We adopted a model of chronic asthma induced by a panel of three naturally occurring allergens and novel delivery system of CSF1R inhibitor encapsulated nanoprobe.

Results

Selective depletion of CSF1 in airway epithelial cells abolished the production of allergen‐reactive IgE, resulting in prevention of new asthma development as well as reversal of established allergic lung inflammation. CDPL‐GW nanoprobe containing GW2580, a selective CSF1R inhibitor, showed favorable pharmacokinetics for inhalational treatment and intranasal insufflation delivery of CDPL‐GW nanoprobe ameliorated asthma pathologies including allergen‐specific serum IgE production, allergic lung and airway inflammation and airway hyper‐responsiveness (AHR) with minimal pulmonary adverse reaction.

Conclusion

The inhibition of the CSF1‐CSF1R signaling pathway effectively suppresses sensitization to aeroallergens and consequent allergic lung inflammation in a murine model of chronic asthma. CSF1R inhibition is a promising new target for the treatment of allergic asthma.
Evaluation of online clinical pharmacology curriculum resources for medical students
Authors: Zhang Xi Yue , Holbrook Anne M. , Nguyen Laura , Lee Justin , Al Qahtani Saeed , Garcia Michael Cristian , Perri Dan , Levine Mitchell , Patel Rakesh V. , Maxwell Simon
Published: August 2019

Aims

To identify and evaluate clinical pharmacology (CP) online curricular (e‐Learning) resources that are internationally available for medical students.

Methods

Literature searches of Medline, EMBASE and ERIC databases and an online survey of faculty members of international English language medical schools, were used to identify CP e‐Learning resources. Resources that were accessible online in English and aimed to improve the quality of prescribing specific medications were then evaluated using a summary percentage score for comprehensiveness, usability and quality, and for content suitability.

Results

Our literature searches and survey of 252 faculty (40.7% response rate) in 219 medical schools identified 22 and 59 resources respectively. After screening and removing duplicates, 8 eligible resources remained for evaluation. Mean total score was 53% (standard deviation = 13). The Australian National Prescribing Curriculum, ranked highest with a score of 77%, based primarily on very good ratings for usability, quality and suitable content.

Conclusion

Using a novel method and evaluation metric to identify, classify, and rate English language CP e‐Learning resources, the National Prescribing Curriculum was the highest ranked open access resource. Future work is required to implement and evaluate its effectiveness on prescribing competence.
How do women with social risk factors experience United Kingdom maternity care? A realist synthesis
Authors: Rayment‐Jones Hannah , Harris James , Harden Angela , Khan Zahra , Sandall Jane
Published: August 2019

Background

Echoing international trends, the most recent United Kingdom reports of infant and maternal mortality found that pregnancies to women with social risk factors are over 50% more likely to end in stillbirth or neonatal death and carry an increased risk of premature birth and maternal death. The aim of this realist synthesis was to uncover the mechanisms that affect women's experiences of maternity care.

Methods

Using realist methodology, 22 papers exploring how women with a wide range of social risk factors experience maternity care in the United Kingdom were included. The data extraction process identified contexts (C), mechanisms (M), and outcomes (0).

Results

Three themes, Resources, Relationships, and Candidacy, overarched eight CMO configurations. Access to services, appropriate education, interpreters, practical support, and continuity of care were particularly relevant for women who are unfamiliar with the United Kingdom system and those living chaotic lives. For women with experience of trauma, or those who lack a sense of control, a trusting relationship with a health care professional was key to regaining trust. Many women who have social care involvement during their pregnancy perceive health care services as a system of surveillance rather than support, impacting on their engagement. This, as well as experiences of paternalistic care and discrimination, could be mitigated through the ability to develop trusting relationships.

Conclusions

The findings provide underlying theory and practical guidance on how to develop safe services that aim to reduce inequalities in women's experiences and birth outcomes.
Unilateral climate policy and the green paradox: Extraction costs matter
Authors: Kollenbach Gilbert
Published: August 2019

I analyze the effect of unilateral climate policies in a two‐country model where fossil fuel extraction costs depend on both current extraction and remaining stock and where a constant marginal‐cost clean substitute is available. An intensification of climate policy in the country with an initially stricter policy does not increase early fossil fuel extraction (i.e., there is no “weak green paradox”) or the present value of pollution costs (i.e., there is no “strong green paradox”) if energy demand in that country is initially met with a mix of fossil fuel and a substitute. Whether a stricter climate policy in the country with an initially laxer policy causes a weak green paradox depends on the price elasticity of energy demand and the strength of the flow and stock dependence of extraction costs. If the reduction of total extraction is sufficiently strong, it overcompensates for a weak green paradox with respect to pollution costs. Thus, a weak green paradox does not necessarily imply a strong green paradox, due to stock dependence.
Integrated genetic and epigenetic analysis revealed heterogeneity of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Down syndrome
Authors: Kubota Yasuo , Uryu Kumiko , Ito Tatsuya , Seki Masafumi , Kawai Tomoko , Isobe Tomoya , Kumagai Tadayuki , Toki Tsutomu , Yoshida Kenichi , Suzuki Hiromichi , Kataoka Keisuke , Shiraishi Yuichi , Chiba Kenichi , Tanaka Hiroko , Ohki Kentaro , Kiyokawa Nobutaka , Kagawa Jiro , Miyano Satoru , Oka Akira , Hayashi Yasuhide , Ogawa Seishi , Terui Kiminori , Sato Atsushi , Hata Kenichiro , Ito Etsuro , Takita Junko
Published: August 2019

Children with Down syndrome (DS) are at a 20‐fold increased risk for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Compared to children with ALL and no DS (non‐DS‐ALL), those with DS and ALL (DS‐ALL) harbor uncommon genetic alterations, suggesting DS‐ALL could have distinct biological features. Recent studies have implicated several genes on chromosome 21 in DS‐ALL, but the precise mechanisms predisposing children with DS to ALL remain unknown. Our integrated genetic/epigenetic analysis revealed that DS‐ALL was highly heterogeneous with many subtypes. Although each subtype had genetic/epigenetic profiles similar to those found in non‐DS‐ALL, the subtype distribution differed significantly between groups. The Philadelphia chromosome‐like subtype, a high‐risk B‐cell lineage variant relatively rare among the entire pediatric ALL population, was the most common form in DS‐ALL. Hypermethylation of RUNX1 on chromosome 21 was also found in DS‐ALL, but not non‐DS‐ALL. RUNX1 is essential for differentiation of blood cells, especially B cells; thus, hypermethylation of the RUNX1 promoter in B‐cell precursors might be associated with increased incidence of B‐cell precursor ALL in DS patients.
Rexiella, a new name for Rexia S. Stenroos, Pino‐Bodas & Ahti (2018), non Rexia D. A. Casamatta, S. R. Gomez & J. R. Johansen (2006)
Authors: Stenroos Soili , Pino‐Bodas Raquel , Ahti Teuvo
Published: August 2019

A new generic name, Rexiella, is published to replace the recently published name Rexia S. Stenroos, Pino‐Bodas and Ahti, which turned out to be an illegitimate later homonym of the cyanobacterial genus Rexia D. A. Casamatta, S. R. Gomez and J. R. Johansen.
Development of an Integrated Platform Using Multidisciplinary Real‐World Data to Facilitate Biomarker Discovery for Medical Products
Authors: Dabic Stefan , Azarbaijani Yasameen , Karapetyan Tigran , Loyo‐Berrios Nilsa , Simonyan Vahan , Kitchner Terrie , Brilliant Murray , Torosyan Yelizaveta
Published: August 2019

Translational multidisciplinary research is important for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's efforts for utilizing real‐world data (RWD) to enhance predictive evaluation of medical device performance in patient subpopulations. As part of our efforts for developing new RWD‐based evidentiary approaches, including in silico discovery of device‐related risk predictors and biomarkers, this study aims to characterize the sex/race‐related trends in hip replacement outcomes and identify corresponding candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Adverse outcomes were assessed by deriving RWD from a retrospective analysis of hip replacement hospital discharge data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS). Candidate SNPs were explored using pre‐existing data from the Personalized Medicine Research Project (PMRP). High‐Performance Integrated Virtual Environment was used for analyzing and visualizing putative associations between SNPs and adverse outcomes. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was used for exploring plausibility of the sex‐related candidate SNPs and characterizing gene networks associated with the variants of interest. The NIS‐based epidemiologic evidence showed that periprosthetic osteolysis (PO) was most prevalent among white men. The PMRP‐based genetic evidence associated the PO‐related male predominance with rs7121 (odds ratio = 4.89; 95% confidence interval = 1.41−17.05) and other candidate SNPs. SNP‐based IPA analysis of the expected gene expression alterations and corresponding signaling pathways suggested possible role of sex‐related metabolic factors in development of PO, which was substantiated by ad hoc epidemiologic analysis identifying the sex‐related differences in metabolic comorbidities in men vs. women with hip replacement‐related PO. Thus, our in silico study illustrates RWD‐based evidentiary approaches that may facilitate cost/time‐efficient discovery of biomarkers for informing use of medical products.
Intraneural granular cell tumor: Histologic spectrum and histogenetic implication
Authors: Chow Louis T. C. , Chow Maria B. C. Y.
Published: August 2019

Granular cell tumor (GCT), despite its putative neural origin, commonly occurs in extraneural sites; only six single case reports of intraneural GCT have been described. We report an unique case as the only one with motor dysfunction, the longest duration of symptoms, and largest tumor size with resultant muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration. Upon review of these cases, the striking feature of intraneural GCT lies in its histologic variety, ranging from benign GCT, through plexiform, hybrid GCT and perineurioma to malignant GCT, encompassing the full spectrum of extraneural GCT. As the immunophenotypes of schwannoma and GCT are not exactly identical, together with evidence from ultrastructural studies, the more reasonable and likely possibility is that GCT originates from undifferentiated mesenchymal cells acquiring partial schwannian differentiation. Such postulation by virtue of the widespread occurrence of mesenchymal cells in the soft tissue, better explains the topographic distribution of GCT in extraneural and intraneural location.
“Discover and Explore”: Creating Impactful STEAM Learning Experiences for Museum Professionals
Authors: Saraniero Patricia , Kelton Molly L.
Published: August 2019

Projects that blend Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) can present a number of challenges, including the integration of disparate concepts or ideas. Weaving the arts together with mathematics and the sciences for museum visitors in meaningful ways is currently an area of development for many museum professionals. This article examines five essential elements for museum professionals’ learning and development. These elements are examined through a case study of a professional development program designed to support museum professionals to collaboratively develop STEAM programming and exhibits. Drawing on this research, recommendations for future learning opportunities are offered.
Cardiomyopathy presenting prenatally with functional tricuspid and pulmonary atresia
Authors: Patel Reema , Peterson Renuka
Published: August 2019

Cardiomyopathy is a rare diagnosis in the fetus that usually presents as a dilated, poorly functioning ventricle. We present the case of a fetus that developed functional tricuspid and pulmonary atresia due to progressive right ventricular cardiomyopathy. The baby was supported with prostaglandin and inotropic infusions after delivery, eventually weaning off without need for surgical intervention. This case illustrates the prenatal findings that evolved and the successful postnatal management.
Bacillus pumilus and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia as two potentially causative agents involved in Persian oak decline in Zagros forests (Iran)
Authors: Ahmadi Elahe , Kowsari Mojegan , Azadfar Davood , Salehi Jouzani Gholamreza
Published: August 2019

The oak decline is known as one of the most destructive complex diseases causing high economic losses around the world, especially in Iran. The main objective of the present study was to investigate the possible role of bacteria as causative agents of oak decline in the Zagros forests of Iran. To do this, stem, root and leaf samples were taken from symptomatic Persian oak trees (Quercus brantii) in different zones of Zagros forests (Ilam Province, Iran). From 150 bacterial isolates, 20 showed pathogenicity against Geranium seedlings. Among 20 hypersensitivity test positive strains, four strains showed pathogenicity against oak saplings. Based on morphological and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, three strains were identified as Bacillus pumilus and one strain as non‐sporulating Gram‐negative Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Pathogenicity studies of different B. pumilus and S. maltophilia strains revealed that they have potential to cause the disease in oak saplings and symptoms of disorder in Persian oak trees. To our knowledge, there are no previous records of B. pumilus and S. maltophilia causing decline on Fagaceous trees like Q. brantii. More detailed field and molecular studies are required to confirm the absolute role of such bacteria in occurrence of oak decline in Zagros forests.
A study of selected hematopoietic stem cell donors provided by an intermediate size registry
Authors: Nicoloso Grazia , Kürsteiner Oliver , Bussmann Felix , Marbacher Monika , Tiercy Jean‐Marie
Published: August 2019

Objective

Planning new hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) donor recruitment strategies requires a sound understanding of the factors underlying donor selection, especially considering HLA‐matching criteria.

Method

A total of 182 consecutive workups of Swiss donors performed from 2014 to 2017 were analyzed for HLA match level, locus disparities, number of potentially 10/10 matched donors in the international database, donor ranking on the lists, donor date of registration, age, ABO, CMV, gender matching, patient genotype frequency, and country performing the search.

Results

Matching status of the selected donors was 10/10 for 38.5%, 10‐12/12 for 35.1%, and 8‐9/10 for 26.4% donors, without differences in average donor age in the three categories. HLA‐A and ‐C mismatches were most frequent and ‐DRB1 very rare. 8.2% patients were matched for HLA‐DPB1 (12/12). ABO matching was 46.3%, and CMV matching was 59.1%. Based on “HaploStat”‐derived genotype frequencies, 50.3% patients belonged to the “good,” 38.5% to the “fair,” and 11.2% to the “poor” search prognosis categories. 37.9% of transplants were gender‐mismatched, and 42.3% of donors were female.

Conclusion

HLA typing quality (high resolution, all loci typed), great diversity of haplotypes and donor age are main factors impacting the selection of Swiss donors, while gender and ABO matching seem to be of secondary importance.
An Analysis of College Choice Information Provided on Graduate Program Websites: Implications for Improving Applicant Diversity in Educational Measurement
Authors: Rios Joseph A. , Randall Jennifer , Donnelly Marina
Published: August 2019

There has long been a concern about the lack of representation of ethnic minorities in the field of educational measurement. As previous research has shown that graduate programs primarily rely on their websites for recruiting efforts, the objective of this study was to conduct a content analysis of all U.S. educational measurement program websites to evaluate the availability of college choice information found to be useful for underrepresented ethnic minority applicants. In terms of program climate, results revealed that less than 10% of programs directly encouraged ethnic minorities to apply or included an antidiscrimination statement with regard to application review on their websites. Moreover, only a few program websites indicated the availability of flexible programming—previously found to be important for underrepresented ethnic minority students—such as part‐time options (16%), evening courses (10%), and online course/program availability (8%). Recommendations for how measurement programs can improve their websites to include desirable college choice information for underrepresented ethnic minority applicants are discussed.
Vocalisation and its association with androgens and corticosterone in a night frog (Nyctibatrachus humayuni) with unique breeding behaviour
Authors: Joshi Amruta M. , Narayan Edward J. , Gramapurohit Narahari Prabhakar
Published: August 2019

In anurans, vocalisation is used to communicate within and between the sexes during reproduction. Knowledge of vocal repertoire and its diversity is essential in understanding its significance in sexual selection. In this context, we studied the vocal behaviour of Nyctibatrachus humayuni and quantified the urinary metabolites of androgens and corticosterone to understand the associations among hormones, body condition index and vocalisation. Our results show that males of N. humayuni produce an amplitude‐modulated call consisting of a train of pulses. Interestingly, a high degree of inter‐individual variation was observed in the call parameters. The dominant frequency and pulse interval were negatively correlated with male body size, whereas pulse duration and pulse duty cycle were positively correlated with it. Dominant frequency was negatively correlated with androgens and corticosterone, whereas pulse interval was negatively correlated with corticosterone. Further, pulse duty cycle, pulse duration and pulses per call were positively associated with corticosterone. Surprisingly, none of the acoustic parameters was associated with male body temperature and body condition. A significant variation was evident in the vocal effort, dominant frequency and amplitude of advertisement calls produced under different social situations. Calls produced during territory establishment had lower dominant frequency but higher vocal effort, whereas those produced during courtship had higher amplitude and vocal effort than the calls produced in the absence of a competitor/female. Our results suggest that greater inter‐male variability in the advertisement call of N. humayuni could be important in female choice as it may help females to assess the quality of a male. Further, androgens and corticosterone could be important in modulating crucial parameters of the advertisement call.
Targeting the gut‐skin axis—Probiotics as new tools for skin disorder management?
Authors: Szántó Magdolna , Dózsa Anikó , Antal Dóra , Szabó Kornélia , Kemény Lajos , Bai Péter
Published: August 2019

The existence of a gut‐skin axis is supported by increasing evidence, but its translational potential is not widely recognized. Studies linked inflammatory skin diseases to an imbalanced gut microbiome; hence, the modulation of the gut microbiota to improve skin condition seems to be a feasible approach. Today, there is a growing interest in natural products as alternatives to synthetic drugs. In this respect, oral probiotics could be a simple, safe and cheap modality in the therapeutic management of skin inflammation. Unfortunately, very few studies have looked into how probiotic supplementation influences inflammatory skin disorders. The result, though promising, are difficult to implement in clinical practice due to the heterogeneity of the applied supplemental regimen in the different studies. In this Viewpoint, we aim to encourage the conduction of more research in that direction to explore unambiguously the therapeutic potential of oral probiotics in dermatology. We focus on the most common inflammatory skin diseases (atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, acne vulgaris) with an associated gut dysbiosis, but we also discuss some less common, but very serious skin pathologies (eg erythema nodosum, pyoderma gangrenosum, hidradenitis suppurativa) that are possibly linked to a disturbed gut flora composition. We dissect the possible mechanisms along the gut‐skin axis and highlight novel points where probiotics could interfere in this communication in the diseased state.
A highly conserved δ‐opioid receptor region determines RGS4 interaction
Authors: Karoussiotis Christos , Marti‐Solano Maria , Stepniewski Tomasz Maciej , Symeonof Alexandra , Selent Jana , Georgoussi Zafiroula
Published: August 2019

The δ‐opioid receptor (δ‐OR) couples to Gi/Go proteins to modulate a variety of responses in the nervous system. Τhe regulator of G protein signalling 4 (RGS4) was previously shown to directly interact within the C‐terminal region of δ‐OR using its N‐terminal domain to negatively modulate opioid receptor signalling. Herein, using molecular dynamics simulations and in vitro pull‐down experiments we delimit this interaction to 12 helix 8 residues of δ‐ΟR and to the first 17 N‐terminal residues (NT) of RGS4. Monitoring the complex arrangement and stabilization between RGS4 and δ‐OR by molecular dynamics simulations combined with mutagenesis studies, we defined that two critical interactions are formed: one between Phe329 of helix8 of δ‐ΟR and Pro9 of the NT of RGS4 and the other a salt bridge between Glu323 of δ‐ΟR and Lys17 of RGS4. Our observations allow drafting for the first time a structural model of a ternary complex including the δ‐opioid receptor, a G protein and a RGS protein. Furthermore, the high degree of conservation among opioid receptors of the RGS4‐binding region, points to a conserved interaction mode between opioid receptors and this important regulatory protein.
Adaptive bycatch reduction in penaeid trawls via rapid adjustments to headline height
Authors: Kennelly Steven J. , Melli Valentina , Broadhurst Matt K.
Published: August 2019

Penaeid trawling is among the world's least selective fishing methods; a characteristic that has evoked spatial closures being implemented in some fisheries if certain bycatch limits are exceeded. For decades, considerable work has been done to develop modifications to penaeid trawls that reduce unwanted bycatches, with most focussed at the posterior section (i.e. codend). More recently, efforts have examined ways to prevent bycatch entry into trawls entirely—via modifications to anterior components. This study assessed the utility of proactively lowering the headlines of Australian penaeid trawls, using clips at the otter boards, to 68% and 54% of their conventional height, and demonstrated mean total bycatch reductions (by weight) of 69% and 79%, respectively, with no effects on the targeted Metapenaeus macleayi (Haswell). The results provide insights into the location and behaviour of various species in the water column preceding capture, and support a simple and easy method for regional fishers to use in situ to avoid excessive bycatch and associated fishing closures. More broadly, the data support ongoing efforts in other penaeid‐trawl fisheries to reduce bycatches via similar, rapid adjustments to anterior components, depending on species‐specific behaviours during capture.
Zones of influence for soil organic matter dynamics: A conceptual framework for data and models
Authors: Cagnarini Claudia , Blyth Eleanor , Emmett Bridget A. , Evans Chris D. , Griffiths Robert I. , Keith Aidan , Jones Laurence , Lebron Inma , McNamara Niall P. , Puissant Jeremy , Reinsch Sabine , Robinson David A. , Rowe Edwin C. , Thomas Amy R.C. , Smart Simon M. , Whitaker Jeanette , Cosby Bernard J.
Published: August 2019

Soil organic matter (SOM) is an indicator of sustainable land management as stated in the global indicator framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG Indicator 15.3.1). Improved forecasting of future changes in SOM is needed to support the development of more sustainable land management under a changing climate. Current models fail to reproduce historical trends in SOM both within and during transition between ecosystems. More realistic spatio‐temporal SOM dynamics require inclusion of the recent paradigm shift from SOM recalcitrance as an ‘intrinsic property’ to SOM persistence as an ‘ecosystem interaction’. We present a soil profile, or pedon‐explicit, ecosystem‐scale framework for data and models of SOM distribution and dynamics which can better represent land use transitions. Ecosystem‐scale drivers are integrated with pedon‐scale processes in two zones of influence. In the upper vegetation zone, SOM is affected primarily by plant inputs (above‐ and belowground), climate, microbial activity and physical aggregation and is prone to destabilization. In the lower mineral matrix zone, SOM inputs from the vegetation zone are controlled primarily by mineral phase and chemical interactions, resulting in more favourable conditions for SOM persistence. Vegetation zone boundary conditions vary spatially at landscape scales (vegetation cover) and temporally at decadal scales (climate). Mineral matrix zone boundary conditions vary spatially at landscape scales (geology, topography) but change only slowly. The thicknesses of the two zones and their transport connectivity are dynamic and affected by plant cover, land use practices, climate and feedbacks from current SOM stock in each layer. Using this framework, we identify several areas where greater knowledge is needed to advance the emerging paradigm of SOM dynamics—improved representation of plant‐derived carbon inputs, contributions of soil biota to SOM storage and effect of dynamic soil structure on SOM storage—and how this can be combined with robust and efficient soil monitoring.
Queer Derailment and Pederast Adoration in Carl Theodor Dreyer'sMichael(1924)
Authors: Malakaj Ervin
Published: August 2019

Some critics of Carl Theodor Dreyer'sMichael(1924) have cast the queer bond between the title character and the master painter Zoret as too frail to warrant a queer designation for the film. Especially Zoret's paternal commitment to Michael in conjunction with Michael's rejection of his guardian in lieu of a romantic relationship to an impoverished Russian aristocrat, Zanikow, was seen as cause to doubt queer aesthetic commitments in the film's narrative. Drawing on scholarship on queer phenomenology, queer failure, and pederasty, this article contends that there is a great deal of queerness residing in the film. It reads Zoret's ardent regulation of Michael's unideal behavior as a response to living life queerly in Weimar Germany in order to show how the paternalistic commitment is in line with pederast adoration, a relational dynamic that also gives access to other queer personal histories embedded in the film.
Ecological Pessimism and the Pronouns of the Future in Nicolas Born's “Radikale Ernte” (1975)
Authors: Buchholz Paul
Published: August 2019

Contemporary discourses on the Anthropocene within the humanities are often underpinned by the search for new models of ecological collectivity. This article understands these discourses within the extended history of the mainstreaming of ecological thought, as exemplified by the 1975 story “Radikale Ernte” by the West German writer Nicolas Born, which illustrates the political and communicative problems of establishing a collectivity dedicated to resisting the destruction of nature. With its surreal dystopian narrative of a countercultural family that tries and fails to resist the apparatus of industrial consumer society, “Radikale Ernte” ironizes a range of countercultural possibilities imagined by the New Left. At the same time, the story prefigures a form of community of radical outsiders, which encompasses both the family's prodigal child and the narrative addressee.
Forced migrations and Externalization of European Union Border Control: Serbia on the Balkan Migration Route
Authors: Bobić Mirjana , Šantić Danica
Published: August 2019

The article argues that the recent “migration crisis” has been constructed as a security threat to the European Union, which conceals both the multiple causes of forced migrations, and the inability of the Union to respond to the massive influx of people in need of protection. Serbia had taken up a “refugee‐friendly” policy, which implied a humanitarian approach. However, due to a change of political discourse in connection with the EU accession, a shift towards the security position occurred. This article sheds light on the actual status of migrants and asylum seekers in Serbia, as well as the state response to the growing challenges in the area of acceptance and protection, following the official closure of the Balkan route. In the conclusion, the authors tentatively plead for return to a balanced humanitarian approach, since there is clear evidence that mixed migration flows will resume in the times to come.
Limits to consent in cosmetic interventions: an update
Authors: Holden Alexander C. L. , Stewart Cameron
Published: August 2019

This update restates the legal limits of consent to medical treatment. It reviews the classic statement of law set down by the case of R v Brown, where ‘proper medical treatment’ was stated to be exempted from the ordinary laws of consent. This position has been recently developed further by the 2018 English case of R v BM where a non‐medical body modification artist was convicted for having carried out substantive body modification procedures. This article considers how these developments may affect Australian law, particularly laws pertaining to cosmetic procedures.
Oesophageal food bolus obstruction and eosinophilic oesophagitis
Authors: Cook Dane , Zala Alkesh , Bollipo Steven , Potter Michael D. E. , Walker Marjorie M. , Talley Nicholas J.
Published: August 2019

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is now a well‐recognised cause of dysphagia and food bolus obstruction (FBO). The diagnosis requires histologic confirmation, and the yield is greatest when at least 4 to 6 oesophageal biopsies are taken from different sites. Previous case reports of FBO have demonstrated a low biopsy rate, and as such cases of EoE may have been missed. In this review, the medical records of 123 patients aged 18 years or older, who had presented with FBO over a 2 year period, were reviewed. EoE was the most common diagnosis, and was found in 81.3% of patients with FBO aged 40 years or less. 45.5% of patients with FBO were biopsied, and of those, 33.9% were confirmed to have had at least 4 biopsies. EoE is a common cause of FBO and requires appropriate oesophageal sampling to confirm the diagnosis. Cases of EoE may otherwise be missed.
Multiple endocrine neoplasia: an update
Authors: McDonnell Jane E. , Gild Matti L. , Clifton‐Bligh Roderick J. , Robinson Bruce G.
Published: August 2019

The multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes include MEN1, MEN2 (formerly MEN2A), MEN3 (formerly MEN2B) and the recently identified MEN4. Clinical presentations are varied and often relate to the overproduction of specific hormones. Understanding the genetics of each syndrome assists in determining screening timelines. Treatments for each manifestation are dependent on location, risk of recurrence or malignancy, hormone excess and surgical morbidity. Multidisciplinary management should include geneticists, genetic counsellors, endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons.
Troponin release after exertional vasovagal syncope
Authors: Quinn Olivia , Jardine David , Florkowski Christopher , Than Martin
Published: August 2019

Troponin release following exertional vasovagal syncope has not previously been reported. A young man was investigated after being admitted twice with exertional syncope, each time followed by a 10‐fold spike in troponin I over 24 h. Treadmill exercise tests reproduced his symptoms and demonstrated a vasovagal mechanism. During recovery, despite lying supine, he remained hypotensive for 5 min, with profound bradycardia and ST segment depression. We suspected that intense cardiovagal neural activity may have caused the troponin leak.