bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Epstein–Barr virus among oral potentially malignant disorders and oral squamous cell carcinomas in the South Indian tobacco‐chewing population
Authors: Reddy Sujatha S. , Sharma Shivani , Mysorekar Vijaya
Published: October 2016

Background

Oral cancer is the sixth most common malignancy in the world. Viruses are the causative agents of approximately 10–15% of all cancers worldwide (Cancers, 6, 2014 and 2155). The tumorigenic roles of Epstein–Barr virus in oral cancer are unclear. Literature search results are conflicting and dependent on various factors such as geographical/regional variations, sociocultural lifestyles, dietary habits, chewing/smoking tobacco habit. This study is the first original observation about frequency of Epstein–Barr virus among South Indian tobacco‐chewing patients to elucidate its involvement in oral carcinogenesis and to know whether this can be a valuable diagnostic and prognostic indicator.

Materials and Methods

A total number of 75 tobacco chewer subjects aged between 23 and 76 years with histopathologically confirmed oral potentially malignant disorders (25), oral squamous cell carcinoma (25), and age‐matched healthy controls (25) formed the study group. Immunohistochemical expression of Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 was assessed among cases and healthy controls.

Results

Out of the total 75 subjects, six subjects (8%) were positive for Epstein–Barr virus antigen and 69 subjects (92%) negative. The antigen positivity was observed among two cases of moderately differentiated oral squamous cell carcinoma, two cases of leukoplakia, and two healthy controls.

Conclusion

No significant association between Epstein–Barr virus positivity was observed among oral potentially malignant disorders and oral squamous cell carcinoma among South Indian tobacco‐chewing patients. This can be partially explained by the methodology employed, by the patient population analyzed and different habits in various geographical regions.
RATINGS: IT'S ACCRUAL WORLD
Authors: Carson James M. , Eastman Evan M. , Eckles David L.
Published: October 2016

Loss reserves are a discretionary tool for managing insurer earnings, with more accurate and/or less volatile reserve errors resulting in higher accruals quality. We investigate whether accruals quality is related to insurer financial strength ratings. Specifically, we use insurer loss reserve errors as a measure of the quality of accruals and examine whether overall accruals quality, as well as a decomposition into innate and discretionary accruals quality, is related to insurer financial strength ratings. We find that firms with lower‐quality (noisier) accruals receive lower financial strength ratings from A.M. Best. This result holds for both innate and discretionary accruals. Overall, we provide the first evidence that the quality of accounting information is a significant factor in ratings of insurance firms.
Development of a sensory lexicon for a specific subcategory of soy sauce: Seasoning soy sauce
Authors: Pujchakarn Thamonwan , Suwonsichon Suntaree , Suwonsichon Thongchai
Published: October 2016

General lexicons have been developed to describe sensory characteristics of soy sauce. However, no study has examined a large sample set of seasoning soy sauce, a subcategory of soy sauce, and developed a lexicon to fully describe its specific sensory characteristics. In this study, a wide variety of seasoning soy sauces (n = 25) were examined by a descriptive panel composed of nine highly trained panelists and a lexicon consisting of 34 attributes was developed. Each attribute was defined and referenced. Results showed that almost all attributes were needed to explain the common sensory characteristics found in seasoning soy sauces. However, five terms may be used occasionally to describe targeted specific sensory characteristics. As compared with published general lexicons of soy sauce, the current lexicon revealed eight new attributes that were specific to seasoning soy sauces. In addition, new references were also developed for some attributes, thus providing new choices of references for researchers.

Practical applications

Understanding sensory characteristics of seasoning soy sauce, an increasingly popular flavoring ingredient, is very useful for manufacturers to capture or improve product qualities in order to strengthen their competitiveness in the marketplace. A developed lexicon from this study can be used to determine sensory quality of seasoning soy sauces accurately and precisely. The lexicon can also facilitate communication regarding product quality among sensory scientists, product developers, marketing professionals and suppliers.
Road map for improvement: Point prevalence audit and survey of central venous access devices in paediatric acute care
Authors: Ullman Amanda J , Cooke Marie , Kleidon Tricia , Rickard Claire M
Published: October 2016

Aim

To identify the prevalence, management and complications associated with central venous access devices (CVADs) within Australian paediatric facilities, providing a map for clinicians, researchers and managers to focus solutions.

Methods

A point prevalence audit and survey of CVAD practices in Australian tertiary paediatric hospitals between September and November 2015, using validated data collection tools.

Results

Across the six sites, 1027 patients were screened with CVADs prevalent in 26.1% (n = 268), and 261 CVADs in 248 patients available for audit. Variations in management were evident with dressings not meeting the basic criteria of clean, dry and intact for 13.5% of CVADs (n = 35), and non‐sterile dressings used to reinforce 26.4% of CVADs (n = 69). Almost half of CVADs (49.4%; n = 132) had no documentation regarding site assessment in the previous 4 h, and 13.4% had no planned use in the next 24 h (35 CVAD).

CVAD‐associated complications within the previous 7 days were evident in 9.5% of CVADs (n = 27), most commonly catheter blockage (5.7% CVAD, n = 15), and bloodstream infection (1.9% CVAD, n = 5). Peripherally inserted central catheters (16.9%) in comparison to other catheter types (7.4%; P = 0.04), and subsequent CVADs (14.1%) in comparison to initial CVADs (6.5%; P = 0.04), had significantly higher proportions of CVAD‐associated complications in the previous 7 days. Variation between the sites’ guidelines was evident across many practices.

Conclusions

CVADs are prevalent and essential for paediatric health care; however, complications remain a significant problem. Areas identified for improvement were local CVAD guidelines, regular documentation of CVAD site assessment and review of dressing products to improve integrity.
Delayed diagnosis: An important prognostic factor for oesophageal atresia in developing countries
Authors: Karakus Suleyman Cuneyt , Ozokutan Bulent Hayri , Bakal Unal , Ceylan Haluk , Sarac Mehmet , Kul Seval , Kazez Ahmet
Published: October 2016

Aim

The aim of this study is to analyse the effect of delayed diagnosis on mortality rates, and evaluate the role of delayed diagnosis as a new prognostic factor in patients with oesophageal atresia (OA), especially in developing countries.

Methods

The records of 80 consecutive patients with OA (2008–2013) were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the time of diagnosis. As we demonstrated the effect of delayed diagnosis on mortality, we decided to develop a new classification that will be utilised to predict the prognosis of OA. The discrimination ability of the new prognostic classification was compared with those of the Waterston, Montreal and Spitz classifications using the area under the curve.

Results

The parameters of the new prognostic classification were birth weight less than 2000 g, the presence of major cardiac/life‐threatening anomalies and delay in diagnosis. Class I consisted of patients with none or one of these parameters. Class II consisted of patients with two or three of these parameters. The area under the curve of the new classification was better than those of the other classifications in determining the prognosis of patients with OA.

Conclusions

Delayed diagnosis of OA significantly led to morbidity and mortality. Although delayed diagnosis is not a characteristic of newborn or a marker of severity for OA and is a health care system issue in developing countries, we here point out that it is a prognostic factor in its own right. Our new classification has a superior discriminatory ability compared to the above‐mentioned classifications.
Eligibility criteria for therapeutic hypothermia: From trials to clinical practice
Authors: Mehta Shailender , Joshi Anjali , Bajuk Barbara , Badawi Nadia , McIntyre Sarah , Lui Kei
Published: October 2016

Aim

Whole body therapeutic hypothermia (TH) for hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy was introduced into clinical practice in New South Wales (NSW) and Australian Capital Territory in 2007. State‐wide policy adopting the eligibility criteria and practice based on trial‐designs was published in 2009.

Methods

The study was conducted by retrospectively reviewing medical records of all TH infants born between 2007 and 2011 in NSW and Australian Capital Territory to examine if eligibility criteria (assessed against evidence‐based policy directives) were met.

Results

A total of 207 infants received TH, 104 (50%) did not meet the eligibility criteria defined in NSW policy directive. Over the 5‐year period, the proportion of infants meeting the eligibility criteria did not change. Seventy percent of infants (73 out of 104) not meeting eligibility criteria did not fulfil the criteria for ‘evidence of asphyxia’, although half of them met ‘moderate or severe encephalopathy criterion’. Adverse events (hypotension, coagulopathy and arrhythmia), were more common in the ‘criteria met’ group than the ‘criteria not met’ group (89 vs. 71%, P = 0.001). Similar proportions of infants had TH discontinued before 72 h (criteria met: 32 (31%) vs. criteria not met: 27(26%)). Most frequent reason for early cessation was ‘palliation’ (19/32, 59%) in criteria met and ‘clinical improvement’ (16/27, 59%) in criteria not met group.

Conclusions

Many TH infants were treated based on clinician judgement, though not meeting the trial‐design policy criteria. Early TH cessation (<72 h) was common. Future studies are warranted on long‐term neurodevelopmental outcomes for all infants receiving TH particularly those with early cessation of therapy.
Acute pancreatitis complicating choledochal cysts in children
Authors: Muthucumaru Mathievathaniy , Ljuhar Damir , Panabokke Gayathri , Paul Eldho , Nataraja Ramesh , Ferguson Peter , Dagia Charuta , Clarnette Tom , King Sebastian
Published: October 2016

Aim

To analyse the characteristics of patients with choledochal cysts presenting with acute pancreatitis.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective review of all paediatric patients (<18 years) with choledochal cysts managed over a 14‐year period (2001–2014) at two tertiary paediatric surgical centres. Patient data were analysed for demographics, presentation, radiological classification of cyst type (Todani), operative interventions, complications and long‐term follow‐up.

Results

A total of 49 patients with choledochal cysts were identified with 15 (31%) being Type I fusiform, 18 (37%) Type I cystic and 16 (32%) Type IV‐A. Seventeen (35%) patients presented with acute pancreatitis, one having had an ante‐natally diagnosed choledochal cyst. Patients presenting with pancreatitis were older when compared to the non‐pancreatitis group (5.1 vs. 1.2 years, P = 0.005). Nine out of 16 (53%) patients with Type IV‐A cysts presented with pancreatitis compared to five (33%) of Type I fusiform and three (17%) of Type I cystic. There was however no statistically significant association between Todani types and the development of pancreatitis (Type I fusiform, P = 1.0; Type I cystic, P = 0.063; Type IV‐A, P = 0.053). The rate of complications was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

Pancreatitis was a common presentation in children with a choledochal cyst, however, there was no clear statistically significant association with Todani types and pancreatitis.
Cancer metastasis: Mechanisms of inhibition by melatonin
Authors: Su Shih‐Chi , Hsieh Ming‐Ju , Yang Wei‐En , Chung Wen‐Hung , Reiter Russel J. , Yang Shun‐Fa
Published: October 2016

Melatonin is a naturally occurring molecule secreted by the pineal gland and known as a gatekeeper of circadian clocks. Mounting evidence indicates that melatonin, employing multiple and interrelated mechanisms, exhibits a variety of oncostatic properties in a myriad of tumors during different stages of their progression. Tumor metastasis, which commonly occurs at the late stage, is responsible for the majority of cancer deaths; metastases lead to the development of secondary tumors distant from a primary site. In reference to melatonin, the vast majority of investigations have focused on tumor development and progression at the primary site. Recently, however, interest has shifted toward the role of melatonin on tumor metastases. In this review, we highlight current advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which melatonin counteracts tumor metastases, including experimental and clinical observations; emphasis is placed on the impact of both cancer and non‐neoplastic cells within the tumor microenvironment. Due to the broad range of melatonin's actions, the mechanisms underlying its ability to interfere with metastases are numerous. These include modulation of cell–cell and cell–matrix interaction, extracellular matrix remodeling by matrix metalloproteinases, cytoskeleton reorganization, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis. The evidence discussed herein will serve as a solid foundation for urging basic and clinical studies on the use of melatonin to understand and control metastatic diseases.
Melatonin attenuates postmyocardial infarction injury via increasing Tom70 expression
Authors: Pei Hai‐Feng , Hou Juan‐Ni , Wei Fei‐Peng , Xue Qiang , Zhang Fan , Peng Cheng‐Fei , Yang Yi , Tian Yue , Feng Juan , Du Jin , He Lei , Li Xiu‐Chuan , Gao Er‐He , Li De , Yang Yong‐Jian
Published: October 2016

Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to reactive oxygen species (ROS) overload, exacerbating injury in myocardial infarction (MI). As a receptor for translocases in the outer mitochondrial membrane (Tom) complex, Tom70 has an unknown function in MI, including melatonin‐induced protection against MI injury. We delivered specific small interfering RNAs against Tom70 or lentivirus vectors carrying Tom70a sequences into the left ventricles of mice or to cultured neonatal murine ventricular myocytes (NMVMs). At 48 h post‐transfection, the left anterior descending coronary arteries of mice were permanently ligated, while the NMVMs underwent continuous hypoxia. At 24 h after ischemia/hypoxia, oxidative stress was assessed by dihydroethidium and lucigenin‐enhanced luminescence, mitochondrial damage by transmission electron microscopy and ATP content, and cell apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling and caspase‐3 assay. At 4 weeks after ischemia, cardiac function and fibrosis were evaluated in mice by echocardiography and Masson's trichrome staining, respectively. Ischemic/hypoxic insult reduced Tom70 expression in cardiomyocytes. Tom70 downregulation aggravated post‐MI injury, with increased mitochondrial fragmentation and ROS overload. In contrast, Tom70 upregulation alleviated post‐MI injury, with improved mitochondrial integrity and decreased ROS production. PGC‐1α/Tom70 expression in ischemic myocardium was increased with melatonin alone, but not when combined with luzindole. Melatonin attenuated post‐MI injury in control but not in Tom70‐deficient mice. N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) reversed the adverse effects of Tom70 deficiency in mitochondria and cardiomyocytes, but at a much higher concentration than melatonin. Our findings showed that Tom70 is essential for melatonin‐induced protection against post‐MI injury, by breaking the cycle of mitochondrial impairment and ROS generation.
Kelp transcriptomes provide robust support for interfamilial relationships and revision of the little known Arthrothamnaceae (Laminariales)
Authors: Jackson Chris , Salomaki Eric D. , Lane Christopher E. , Saunders Gary W.
Published: October 2016

If ever there were “charismatic megaflora” of the sea, the Laminariales (kelp) would undoubtedly meet that designation. From the Northeast Pacific kelp forests to the less diverse, but nonetheless dense, kelp beds ranging from the Arctic to the cold temperate waters of the Southern Hemisphere, kelp provide habitat structure and food for a variety of productive marine systems. Consequently, kelp are well represented in the literature, however, understanding their evolution has proven challenging. We used a 152‐gene phylogenomics approach to better resolve the phylogeny of the “derived” kelp families (viz., Agaraceae, Alariaceae, Laminariaceae, and Lessoniaceae). The formerly unresolved Egregia menziesii firmly joined a significantly expanded Arthrothamnaceae including Arthrothamnus, Cymathaere, Ecklonia, Macrocystis, Nereocystis, Pelagophycus, Postelsia, Pseudolessonia, Saccharina, and Streptophyllopsis, which rendered both the Laminariaceae and Lessoniaceae monogeneric. A published eight‐gene alignment, the most marker‐rich prior to this study, was expanded and analyzed to facilitate inclusion of Aureophycus. Although the topology was unchanged at the family level between the transcriptome data set relative to eight‐gene analyses, the superior resolving power of the former was clearly established.
Using complementary approaches to identify trans‐domain nuclear gene transfers in the extremophile Galdieria sulphuraria (Rhodophyta)
Authors: Pandey Ravi S. , Saxena Garima , Bhattacharya Debashish , Qiu Huan , Azad Rajeev K.
Published: October 2016

Identification of horizontal gene transfers (HGTs) has primarily relied on phylogenetic tree based methods, which require a rich sampling of sequenced genomes to ensure a reliable inference. Because the success of phylogenetic approaches depends on the breadth and depth of the database, researchers usually apply stringent filters to detect only the most likely gene transfers in the genomes of interest. One such study focused on a highly conservative estimate of trans‐domain gene transfers in the extremophile eukaryote, Galdieria sulphuraria (Galdieri) Merola (Rhodophyta), by applying multiple filters in their phylogenetic pipeline. This led to the identification of 75 inter‐domain acquisitions from Bacteria or Archaea. Because of the evolutionary, ecological, and potential biotechnological significance of foreign genes in algae, alternative approaches and pipelines complementing phylogenetics are needed for a more comprehensive assessment of HGT. We present here a novel pipeline that uncovered 17 novel foreign genes of prokaryotic origin in G. sulphuraria, results that are supported by multiple lines of evidence including composition‐based, comparative data, and phylogenetics. These genes encode a variety of potentially adaptive functions, from metabolite transport to DNA repair.
Utilization of Mental Health Services by Veterans Living in Rural Areas
Authors: Teich Judith , Ali Mir M. , Lynch Sean , Mutter Ryan
Published: October 2016

Purpose

There is concern that veterans living in rural areas may not be receiving the mental health (MH) treatment they need. This study uses recent national survey data to examine the utilization of MH treatment among military veterans with a MH condition living in rural areas, providing comparisons with estimates of veterans living in urban areas.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression is utilized to examine differences in MH service use by urban/rural residence, controlling for other factors. Rates of utilization of inpatient and outpatient treatment, psychotropic medication, any MH treatment, and perceived unmet need for MH care are examined.

Findings

There were significant differences in MH treatment utilization among veterans by rural/urban residence. Multivariate estimates indicate that compared to veterans with a MH condition living in urban areas, veterans in rural areas had 70% lower odds of receiving any MH treatment. Veterans with a MH condition in rural areas have approximately 52% and 64% lower odds of receiving outpatient treatment and prescription medications, respectively, compared to those living in urban areas. Differences in perceived unmet need for mental health treatment were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

While research indicates that recent efforts to improve MH service delivery have resulted in improved access to services, this study found that veterans’ rates of MH treatment are lower in rural areas, compared to urban areas. Continued efforts to support the provision of behavioral health services to rural veterans are needed. Telemedicine, using rural providers to their maximum potential, and engagement with community stakeholder groups are promising approaches.
Multi‐drug‐resistant Acinetobacter calcoaceticus‐Acinetobacter baumannii complex infection outbreak in dogs and cats in a veterinary hospital
Authors: Kuzi S. , Blum S. E. , Kahane N. , Adler A. , Hussein O. , Segev G. , Aroch I.
Published: October 2016

Background

Members of the Acinetobacter calcoaceticus‐Acinetobacter baumannii complex cause severe outbreaks in humans, and are increasingly reported in animals.

Objective and Methods

A retrospective study, describing a severe outbreak in dogs and cats caused by a multidrug resistant member of the Acinetobacter calcoaceticus‐Acinetobacter baumannii complex in a veterinary hospital, between July 2010 and November 2012.

Results

The study included 19 dogs and 4 cats. Acinetobacter calcoaceticus‐Acinetobacter baumannii complex bacteria were isolated from urine (9 animals), respiratory tract (11), tissues (3) and blood (1). The most common infection‐associated findings included fever, purulent discharge from endotracheal tubes, hypotension, and neutropaenia. Infections led to pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis and sepsis. Infection was transmitted in the intensive care unit, where 22 of 23 animals were initially hospitalised. The mortality rate was 70% (16 of 23 animals), and was higher in cases of respiratory infection compared to other infections. Aggressive environmental cleaning and disinfection, with staff education for personal hygiene and antisepsis, sharply decreased the infection incidence.

Clinical Significance

Health care‐associated outbreaks with multidrug resistant Acinetobacter calcoaceticus‐Acinetobacter baumannii complex in dogs and cats are potentially highly fatal and difficult to eradicate, warranting monitoring, antiseptic techniques and judicious antibiotic use.
The use of disposable skin staples for intestinal resection and anastomosis in 63 dogs: 2000 to 2014
Authors: Rosenbaum J. M. , Coolman B. R. , Davidson B. L. , Daly M. L. , Rexing J. F. , Eatroff A. E.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To describe the use of disposable skin staples for intestinal resection and anastomosis in dogs and report associated dehiscence and mortality rates.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of medical records of dogs that underwent intestinal resection and anastomosis using disposable skin staples between 2000 and 2014. Data regarding patient signalment, indication for surgery, location of the resection and anastomosis, number of procedures performed, evidence of peritonitis at the time of surgery, surgeon qualifications, dehiscence, and mortality were obtained from the medical records. Mortality was defined as failure to survive beyond 10 days following resection and anastomosis.

Results

The overall mortality rate of patients undergoing intestinal resection and anastomosis was 12·7% (8/63). The most common indication for resection and anastomosis was neoplasia (20/63 [31·7%]), followed by foreign body removal (19/63 [30·2%]). The overall dehiscence rate was 4·8% (3/63). No difference in mortality associated with indication for surgery, whether multiple procedures were performed, surgeon qualifications, or evidence of peritonitis at the time of surgery was identified.

Clinical Significance

In this retrospective study, the overall mortality and dehiscence rates using disposable skin staples were similar to previously reported outcomes following resection and anastomosis.
Revision and recalibration of existing shock classifications for quartzose rocks using low‐shock pressure (2.5–20 GPa) recovery experiments and mesoscale numerical modeling
Authors: Kowitz Astrid , Güldemeister Nicole , Schmitt Ralf Thomas , Reimold Wolf‐Uwe , Wünnemann Kai , Holzwarth Andreas
Published: October 2016

A combination of shock recovery experiments and numerical modeling of shock deformation in the low‐shock pressure range from 2.5 to 20 GPa for two dry sandstone types of different porosity, a completely water‐saturated sandstone, and a well‐indurated quartzite provides new insights into strongly heterogeneous distribution of different shock features. (1) For nonporous quartzo‐feldspathic rocks, the traditional classification scheme (Stöffler ) is suitable with slight changes in pressure calibration. (2) For water‐saturated quartzose rocks, a cataclastic texture (microbreccia) seems to be typical for the shock pressure range up to 20 GPa. This microbreccia does not show formation of PDFs but diaplectic quartz glass/SiO2 melt is formed at 20 GPa (~1 vol%). (3) For porous quartzose rocks, the following sequence of shock features is observed with progressive increase in shock pressure (1) crushing of pores, (2) intense fracturing of quartz grains, and (3) increasing formation of diaplectic quartz glass/SiO2 melt replacing fracturing. The formation of diaplectic quartz glass/SiO2 melt, together with SiO2 high‐pressure phases, is a continuous process that strongly depends on porosity. This experimental observation is confirmed by our concomitant numerical modeling. Recalibration of the shock classification scheme results in a porosity versus shock pressure diagram illustrating distinct boundaries for the different shock stages.
Mineral chemistry of the Tissint meteorite: Indications of two‐stage crystallization in a closed system
Authors: Liu Yang , Baziotis Ioannis P. , Asimow Paul D. , Bodnar Robert J. , Taylor Lawrence A.
Published: October 2016

The Tissint meteorite is a geochemically depleted, olivine‐phyric shergottite. Olivine megacrysts contain 300–600 μm cores with uniform Mg# (~80 ± 1) followed by concentric zones of Fe‐enrichment toward the rims. We applied a number of tests to distinguish the relationship of these megacrysts to the host rock. Major and trace element compositions of the Mg‐rich core in olivine are in equilibrium with the bulk rock, within uncertainty, and rare earth element abundances of melt inclusions in Mg‐rich olivines reported in the literature are similar to those of the bulk rock. Moreover, the P Kα intensity maps of two large olivine grains show no resorption between the uniform core and the rim. Taken together, these lines of evidence suggest the olivine megacrysts are phenocrysts. Among depleted olivine‐phyric shergottites, Tissint is the first one that acts mostly as a closed system with olivine megacrysts being the phenocrysts. The texture and mineral chemistry of Tissint indicate a crystallization sequence of: olivine (Mg# 80 ± 1) → olivine (Mg# 76) + chromite → olivine (Mg# 74) + Ti‐chromite → olivine (Mg# 74–63) + pyroxene (Mg# 76–65) + Cr‐ulvöspinel → olivine (Mg# 63–35) + pyroxene (Mg# 65–60) + plagioclase, followed by late‐stage ilmenite and phosphate. The crystallization of the Tissint meteorite likely occurred in two stages: uniform olivine cores likely crystallized under equilibrium conditions; and a fractional crystallization sequence that formed the rest of the rock. The two‐stage crystallization without crystal settling is simulated using MELTS and the Tissint bulk composition, and can broadly reproduce the crystallization sequence and mineral chemistry measured in the Tissint samples. The transition between equilibrium and fractional crystallization is associated with a dramatic increase in cooling rate and might have been driven by an acceleration in the ascent rate or by encounter with a steep thermal gradient in the Martian crust.
The “suevite” conundrum, Part 1: The Ries suevite and Sudbury Onaping Formation compared
Authors: Osinski Gordon R. , Grieve Richard A. F. , Chanou Anna , Sapers Haley M.
Published: October 2016

The term “suevite” has been applied to various impact melt‐bearing breccias found in different stratigraphic settings within terrestrial impact craters. Suevite was coined initially for impact glass‐bearing breccias from the Ries impact structure, Germany, which is the type locality. Various working hypotheses have been proposed to account for the formation of the Ries suevite deposits over the past several decades, with the most recent being molten‐fuel‐coolant interaction (MFCI) between an impact melt pool and water. This mechanism is also the working hypothesis for the origin of the bulk of the Onaping Formation at the Sudbury impact structure, Canada. In this study, the key characteristics of the Ries suevite, the Onaping Formation and MFCI deposits from phreatomagmatic volcanic eruptions are compared. The conclusion is that there are clear and significant lithological, stratigraphic, and petrographic observational differences between the Onaping Formation and the Ries suevite. The Onaping Formation, however, shares many key similarities with MFCI deposits, including the presence of layering, their well‐sorted and fine‐grained nature, and the predominance of vitric particles with similar shapes and lacking included mineral and lithic clasts. These differences argue against the viability of MFCI as a working hypothesis for genesis of the Ries suevite and for a required alternative mechanism for its formation.
Final year Australian nursing students’ experiences with bioscience: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Gordon Christopher J. , Hudson Peter B. , Plenderleith Mark B. , Fisher Murray , Craft Judy A.
Published: October 2016

Nursing students have reported bioscience to be challenging and difficult to understand. This might have a negative impact upon their ability to understand patients’ clinical conditions and nursing practice. We sought information about students’ experiences with bioscience. A total of 126 final year nursing students completed a questionnaire. The findings showed that the majority of participants considered bioscience subjects to require more work compared to nursing subjects (65.9%), and that they would like a better understanding of bioscience (73.8%), but understood that bioscience forms the foundation of nursing practice (76.2%). Younger participants without secondary school science rated bioscience harder than nursing subjects and spent more time studying bioscience compared to older participants. Participants without any secondary school science lacked an ability to apply bioscience concepts to patient conditions. These results showed that nursing students, especially those without secondary school science, would benefit from improved bioscience integration with nursing practice. Nursing and bioscience educators should consider greater alignment of bioscience with nursing practice subjects, especially earlier in the curriculum.
Genetic architecture of plant stress resistance: multi‐trait genome‐wide association mapping
Authors: Thoen Manus P. M. , Davila Olivas Nelson H. , Kloth Karen J. , Coolen Silvia , Huang Ping‐Ping , Aarts Mark G. M. , Bac‐Molenaar Johanna A. , Bakker Jaap , Bouwmeester Harro J. , Broekgaarden Colette , Bucher Johan , Busscher‐Lange Jacqueline , Cheng Xi , Fradin Emilie F. , Jongsma Maarten A. , Julkowska Magdalena M. , Keurentjes Joost J. B. , Ligterink Wilco , Pieterse Corné M. J. , Ruyter‐Spira Carolien , Smant Geert , Testerink Christa , Usadel Björn , van Loon Joop J. A. , van Pelt Johan A. , van Schaik Casper C. , van Wees Saskia C. M. , Visser Richard G. F. , Voorrips Roeland , Vosman Ben , Vreugdenhil Dick , Warmerdam Sonja , Wiegers Gerrie L. , van Heerwaarden Joost , Kruijer Willem , van Eeuwijk Fred A. , Dicke Marcel
Published: October 2016

Plants are exposed to combinations of various biotic and abiotic stresses, but stress responses are usually investigated for single stresses only.

Here, we investigated the genetic architecture underlying plant responses to 11 single stresses and several of their combinations by phenotyping 350 Arabidopsis thaliana accessions. A set of 214 000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was screened for marker‐trait associations in genome‐wide association (GWA) analyses using tailored multi‐trait mixed models.

Stress responses that share phytohormonal signaling pathways also share genetic architecture underlying these responses. After removing the effects of general robustness, for the 30 most significant SNPs, average quantitative trait locus (QTL) effect sizes were larger for dual stresses than for single stresses.

Plants appear to deploy broad‐spectrum defensive mechanisms influencing multiple traits in response to combined stresses. Association analyses identified QTLs with contrasting and with similar responses to biotic vs abiotic stresses, and below‐ground vs above‐ground stresses. Our approach allowed for an unprecedented comprehensive genetic analysis of how plants deal with a wide spectrum of stress conditions.
Innovative ways of studying the effect of migration on obesity and diabetes beyond the common designs: lessons from the RODAM study
Authors: Agyemang Charles , Beune Erik , Meeks Karlijn , Addo Juliet , Aikins Ama de‐Graft , Bahendeka Silver , Danquah Ina , Mockenhaupt Frank P. , Schulze Matthias B. , Klipstein‐Grobusch Kerstin , Smeeth Liam , Stronks Karien
Published: October 2016

Type 2 diabetes and obesity are major global public health problems, with migrant populations in high‐income countries being particularly affected. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are also major threats in low‐ and middle‐income countries, from which most migrant populations originate. Transitioning of societies and the resulting changes in lifestyles are thought to be major driving forces, but the key specific factors within this broad category still need to be determined. Migrant studies provide a unique opportunity to understand the potential underlying causes of these conditions, but current research is mainly geared toward analyzing the differences between migrants and the host populations in the countries of settlement. For better understanding, there is a need to extend migrant health research across national boundaries. This review discusses innovative ways of studying the effect of migration on type 2 diabetes and obesity beyond the common designs and the relevance of extending migrant health studies across national boundaries in the current era of increasing global migration. Specifically, we describe the burden and different methods for conducting migrant studies. We use the Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants (RODAM) study as a case study, discussing the methods, some results, and lessons learned, including challenges and an essential recipe for success that may guide future migrant health research.
Evolutionary potential of upper thermal tolerance: biogeographic patterns and expectations under climate change
Authors: Diamond Sarah E.
Published: October 2016

How will organisms respond to climate change? The rapid changes in global climate are expected to impose strong directional selection on fitness‐related traits. A major open question then is the potential for adaptive evolutionary change under these shifting climates. At the most basic level, evolutionary change requires the presence of heritable variation and natural selection. Because organismal tolerances of high temperature place an upper bound on responding to temperature change, there has been a surge of research effort on the evolutionary potential of upper thermal tolerance traits. Here, I review the available evidence on heritable variation in upper thermal tolerance traits, adopting a biogeographic perspective to understand how heritability of tolerance varies across space. Specifically, I use meta‐analytical models to explore the relationship between upper thermal tolerance heritability and environmental variability in temperature. I also explore how variation in the methods used to obtain these thermal tolerance heritabilities influences the estimation of heritable variation in tolerance. I conclude by discussing the implications of a positive relationship between thermal tolerance heritability and environmental variability in temperature and how this might influence responses to future changes in climate.
Mesenchymal stem cells in tendon repair and regeneration: basic understanding and translational challenges
Authors: Leong Daniel J. , Sun Hui B.
Published: October 2016

Tendon injuries are common and present a clinical challenge because they often respond poorly to treatment and require prolonged rehabilitation. Current treatments often do not completely repair or regenerate the injured or diseased tendon to its native composition, structure, and mechanical properties. Stem cell–based therapies have brought new hope for tissue repair and regeneration, including that for tendon rupture and tendinopathy. Despite tremendous effort and progress, the success of stem cell–based studies on tendon repair and regeneration has mainly been limited to preclinical studies with few clinical applications. In this concise review, we discuss basic understanding and translational challenges of using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for tendon repair and regeneration, with a focus on (1) tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs) and therapeutic approaches using TSPCs and other MSCs,(2) regulation of fate determination in MSCs for tendon‐lineage differentiation, (3) pretreatment and condition of stem/progenitor cells for transplantation, and (4) a treatment approach that involves stimulating endogenous stem cells to enhance tendon healing. The review concludes with discussion on future directions.
Do environmental pollutants increase obesity risk in humans?
Authors: Wang Y. , Hollis‐Hansen K. , Ren X. , Qiu Y. , Qu W.
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Obesity has become a global epidemic and threat to public health. A good understanding of the causes can help attenuate the risk and spread. Environmental pollutants may have contributed to the rising global obesity rates. Some research reported associations between chemical pollutants and obesity, but findings are mixed. This study systematically examined associations between chemical pollutants and obesity in human subjects.

Methods

Systematic review of relevant studies published between 1 January 1995 and 1 June 2016 by searching PubMed and MEDLINE®.

Results

Thirty‐five cross‐sectional (n = 17) and cohort studies (n = 18) were identified that reported on associations between pollutants and obesity measures. Of them, 16 studies (45.71%) reported a positive association; none reported a sole inverse association; three (8.57%) reported a null association only; six (17.14%) reported both a positive and null association; seven (20.00%) reported a positive and inverse association; and three studies (8.57%) reported all associations (positive, inverse and null). Most studies examined the association between multiple different pollutants, different levels of concentration and in subsamples, which results in mixed results. Thirty‐three studies reported at least one positive association between obesity and chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls, biphenyl A, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene and more. Certain chemicals, such as biphenyl A, were more likely to have high ORs ranging from 1.0 to 3.0, whereas highly chlorinated polychlorinated biphenyls were more likely to have negative ORs. Effects of chemicals on the endocrine system and obesity might vary by substance, exposure level, measure of adiposity and subject characteristics (e.g. sex and age).

Conclusions

Accumulated evidences show positive associations between pollutants and obesity in humans. Future large, long‐term, follow‐up studies are needed to assess impact of chemical pollutants on obesity risk and related mechanisms.
Initiation ofBatrachochytrium dendrobatidisinfection in the absence of physical contact with infected hosts – a field study in a high altitude lake
Authors: Courtois Elodie A. , Loyau Adeline , Bourgoin Mégane , Schmeller Dirk S.
Published: October 2016

Understanding transmission is a critical prerequisite for predicting disease dynamics and impacts on host populations. It is well established thatBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd), the amphibian fungal pathogen responsible for chytridiomycosis, can be transmitted directly, through physical contact with an infected host. However, indirect pathways of transmission remain poorly investigated. We conducted a five‐week long field infection experiment at a high altitude mountain lake in the French Pyrenees to investigateBdtransmission pathways in larval midwife toadsAlytes obstetricans. Uninfected naïve tadpoles were co‐housed either with infected tadpoles (direct and indirect transmission) or with uninfected ones (indirect transmission only). We found that physical contact with an infected host is not necessary for initial infection withBdand that all tadpoles became infected after only four weeks. However, physical contact with infected tadpoles led to a faster spread within a tadpole group and resulted in higherBdloads and subsequently higher mortality. Our findings clearly demonstrate that inA. obstetricans, Bdcan quickly spread in a population even without physical contact. Our experiment therefore stresses the importance of indirect transmission ofBdzoospores in infected lakes for disease dynamics, especially when a reservoir species such asA. obstetricansis present.
Plant–fungal symbiosis affects litter decomposition during primary succession
Authors: Bell‐Dereske Lukas , Gao Xiaodong , Masiello Caroline A. , Sinsabaugh Robert L. , Emery Sarah M. , Rudgers Jennifer A.
Published: October 2016

Microbial symbionts of plants can affect decomposition by altering the quality or quantity of host plant tissue (substrate) or the micro‐environment where decomposition occurs (conditioning). In C3 grasses, foliar fungal endophytes (Clavicipitaceae) can increase plant resistance to drought and/or produce alkaloids that reduce herbivory – effects that may also influence host litter composition and subsequent litter decomposition. We studied the effect of the endophyte Epichloë sp. on litter decomposition in the Great Lakes dunes (USA) using a reciprocal design altering endophyte presence/absence in both American beachgrass Ammophila breviligulata substrate (litter bags) and its conditioning of the decomposition microenvironment. Symbiont treatments were crossed with rain‐out shelters that altered growing season precipitation. The first year of decomposition, senesced leaf substrate from A. breviligulata with Epichloë decomposed 21% faster than endophyte‐free substrate. By the third year, conditioning by live symbiotic plants reduced cumulative decomposition by 33% compared to plots planted with endophyte‐free plants. Of the traits we examined – litter quantity, C:N ratio, mineral composition, fungal colonization, and carbon chemistry – increased litter quantity via greater tiller production was the primary trait shift associated with endophyte symbiosis. Epichloë in A. breviligulata litter also altered litter nitrogen decomposition dynamics, as evidenced by lower nitrogen and protein content in decomposed tissue from plants that hosted the endophyte. Differences in initial litter quality and subsequent colonization by saprotrophic fungi were ruled out as key drivers. Altered precipitation had negligible effects on decomposing processes in the dunes. Grass–Epichloë symbiosis altered nutrient cycling through increasing the rate of litter decomposition when present in the litter and through reducing litter decomposition by conditioning the decomposition microenvironment. Epichloë are widespread symbionts of grasses. Thus, their effects on decomposition could be an important, but often overlooked, driver of nutrient cycling in grass‐dominated ecosystems.
Structural and functional analysis of de‐N‐acetylase PgaB from periodontopathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Parthiban C. , Varudharasu D. , Shanmugam M. , Gopal P. , Ragunath C. , Thomas L. , Nitz M. , Ramasubbu N.
Published: October 2016

The oral pathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans uses pga gene locus for the production of an exopolysaccharide made up of a linear homopolymer of β‐1,6‐N‐acetyl‐d‐glucosamine (PGA). An enzyme encoded by the pgaB of the pga operon in A. actinomycetemcomitans is a de‐N‐acetylase, which is used to alter the PGA. The full length enzyme (AaPgaB) and the N‐terminal catalytic domain (residues 25–290, AaPgaBN) from A. actinomycetemcomitans were cloned, expressed and purified. The enzymatic activities of the AaPgaB enzymes were determined using 7‐acetoxycoumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid as the substrate. The AaPgaB enzymes displayed significantly lower de‐N‐acetylase activity compared with the activity of the deacetylase PdaA from Bacillus subtilis, a member of the CE4 family of enzymes. To delineate the differences in the activity and the active site architecture, the structure of AaPgaBN was determined. The AaPgaBN structure has two metal ions in the active site instead of one found in other CE4 enzymes. Based on the crystal structure comparisons among the various CE4 enzymes, two residues, Q51 and R271, were identified in AaPgaB, which could potentially affect the enzyme activity. Of the two mutants generated, Q51E and R271K, the variant Q51E showed enhanced activity compared with AaPgaB, validating the requirement that an activating aspartate residue in the active site is essential for higher activity. In summary, our study provides the first structural evidence for a di‐nuclear metal site at the active site of a member of the CE4 family of enzymes, evidence that AaPgaBN is catalytically active and that mutant Q51E exhibits higher de‐N‐acetylase activity.
Buoyancy mechanisms limit preservation of coleoid cephalopod soft tissues in Mesozoic Lagerstätten
Authors: Clements Thomas , Colleary Caitlin , De Baets Kenneth , Vinther Jakob
Published: October 2016

Coleoid cephalopods are characterized by internalization of their shell, and are divided into the ten‐armed Decabrachia (squids and cuttlefish) and the eight‐armed Vampyropoda (octopuses and vampire squid). They have a rich fossil record predominantly of the limited biomineralized skeletal elements they possess: arm hooks, statoliths, mouthparts (the buccal mass) and internal shell (gladius or pen), although exquisitely preserved soft tissue coleoids are known from several Lagerstätten worldwide. Recent studies have shown that although morphological similarities between extant decabrachian gladii and fossil examples exist, no known examples of fossil decabrachians are currently known. However, molecular clock data and phylogenetic bracketing suggest that they should be present in Lagerstätten that are rich in vampyropod soft tissue fossils (i.e. Hâkel and Hâdjoula Lagerstätten, Cretaceous, Lebanon). We propose that a hitherto unknown taphonomic bias pertaining to the differing methods of buoyancy control within coleoid groups limits preservation potential. Both negatively and neutrally buoyant decabrachians use chemical buoyancy control (ammonia) whereas vampyropods do not. In the event of rapid burial in an environment conducive to exceptional preservation, ammonia dramatically decreases the ability of the decabrachian carcass to generate the required pH for authigenic calcium phosphate replacement, limiting its preservation potential. Moreover, the greater surface area and comparatively fragile dermis further decrease the potential for fossilization. This taphonomic bias may have contributed to the lack of preserved labile soft‐tissues in other cephalopods groups such as the ammonoids.