bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive isolation and introgression between sympatricMimulusspecies
Authors: Kenney Amanda M. , Sweigart Andrea L.
Published: April 2016

Incompletely isolated species provide an opportunity to investigate the genetic mechanisms and evolutionary forces that maintain distinct species in the face of ongoing gene flow. Here, we use field surveys and reduced representation sequencing to characterize the patterns of reproductive isolation, admixture and genomic divergence between populations of the outcrossing wildflowerMimulus guttatusand selfingM. nasutus. Focusing on a single site where these two species have come into secondary contact, we find that phenological isolation is strong, although incomplete, and is likely driven by divergence in response to photoperiod. In contrast to previous field studies, which have suggested that F1‐hybrid formation might be rare, we discover patterns of genomic variation consistent with ongoing introgression. Strikingly, admixed individuals vary continuously from highly admixed to nearly pureM. guttatus, demonstrating ongoing hybridization and asymmetric introgression fromM. nasutusintoM. guttatus. Patterns of admixture and divergence across the genome show that levels of introgression are more variable than expected by chance. Some genomic regions show a reduced introgression, including one region that overlaps a critical photoperiodQTL, whereas other regions show elevated levels of interspecific gene flow. In addition, we observe a genome‐wide negative relationship between absolute divergence and the local recombination rate, potentially indicating natural selection againstM. nasutusancestry inM. guttatusgenetic backgrounds. Together, our results suggest thatMimulusspeciation is both ongoing and dynamic and that a combination of divergence in phenology and mating system, as well as selection against interspecific alleles, likely maintains these sympatric species.
There be dragons: effects of unexplored religion on nurses’ competence in spiritual care
Authors: Pesut Barbara
Published: April 2016

On ancient maps unexplored lands were simply labeled ‘there be dragons’ indicating the fear that attends the unknown. Despite three decades of theoretical and empirical work on spirituality in nursing, evidence still suggests that nurses do not feel competent to engage in spiritual care. In this paper I propose that one of the reasons for this is a theory–theory gap between religion and spirituality. Generalized anxiety about the role of religion in society has led to under‐theorizing in nursing about religious care. As a result, when religion and spirituality overlap at the point of care, nurses are left without the substantive knowledge required for practice. Robust religious theorizing should include thick accounts of lived religion and integrative work that enables nurses to understand commonalities across religions that are relevant to practice. As a starting point to this integrative work, nurses can be introduced to the nature and lexicon of lived religion, religious perspectives on suffering, and religious reasoning that holds meaning and mystery in tension. Such an approach will better prepare them for the realities of practice where the complexities of spirituality and religion come to play.
Meaning making in long‐term care: what do certified nursing assistants think?
Authors: Gray Michelle , Shadden Barbara , Henry Jean , Di Brezzo Ro , Ferguson Alishia , Fort Inza
Published: April 2016

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) provide up to 80% of the direct care to older adults in long‐term care facilities.CNAs are perceived as being at the bottom of the hierarchy among healthcare professionals often negatively affecting their job satisfaction. However, manyCNAs persevere in providing quality care and even reporting high levels of job satisfaction. The aim of the present investigation was to identify primary themes that may helpCNAs make meaning of their chosen career; thus potentially partially explaining increases in job satisfaction among this group. Focus groups were conducted withCNAs at three long‐term care facilities. Four themes emerged from the data:CNAwork is good or special;CNAas relationship builder;CNAas expert;CNAas team member. These themes reflect the perceptions that theseCNAs held in regard to themselves and their relationships to others in the work environment and, when present, can contribute to intrinsic job satisfaction. Our meaning‐making themes support the premise thatCNAs do not passively accept the evaluations of others but instead actively frame identities that validate their importance to residents and the institution.
Wood anatomy of the subfamily Crotonoideae (Euphorbiaceae s.s.) from India: systematic implications with special reference to the taxonomic delimitation of Givotia and Vernicia
Authors: Jangid Prem Prakash , Gupta Sangeeta
Published: April 2016

The wood anatomy of 15 representative species belonging to 12 genera of nine tribes of the subfamily Crotonoideae (Euphorbiaceae) are comprehensively described with focus on systematic implications. In addition, ecological and evolutionary aspects are evaluated. An identification key to the species based on wood anatomical features is presented. The wood microstructure of the tribes was found to be considerably heterogeneous reflecting an unnatural classification of the subfamily. However, the results confirm the generic relationship within subtribe Aleuritinae and tribe Ricinodendreae. Vernicia and Givotia may be recognized based on wood anatomical and morphological characters. The tribes Micrandreae and Adenoclineae have considerable similarity in wood anatomy. The wood structure of the monogeneric tribes Trigonostemoneae and Geloneae idicate a close relationship with the tribe Crotoneae.
Cloud forest trees with higher foliar water uptake capacity and anisohydric behavior are more vulnerable to drought and climate change
Authors: Eller Cleiton B. , Lima Aline L. , Oliveira Rafael S.
Published: April 2016

Many tropical montane cloud forest (TMCF) trees are capable of foliar water uptake (FWU) during leaf‐wetting events. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that maintenance of leaf turgor during periods of fog exposure and soil drought is related to species’ FWU capacity.

We conducted several experiments using apoplastic tracers, deuterium labeling and leaf immersion in water to evaluate differences in FWU among three common TMCF tree species. We also measured the effect of regular fog exposure on the leaf water potential of plants subjected to soil drought and used these data to model species’ response to long‐term drought.

All species were able to absorb water through their leaf cuticles and/or trichomes, although the capacity to do so differed between species. During the drought experiment, the species with higher FWU capacity maintained leaf turgor for a longer period when exposed to fog, whereas the species with lower FWU exerted tighter stomatal regulation to maintain leaf turgor. Model results suggest that without fog, species with high FWU are more likely to lose turgor during seasonal droughts.

We show that leaf‐wetting events are essential for trees with high FWU, which tend to be more anisohydric, maintaining leaf turgor during seasonal droughts.
REGIONAL ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE: A COMPUTABLE GENERAL EQUILIBRIUM ANALYSIS FOR AN ALASKA FISHERY
Authors: SEUNG CHANG , IANELLI JAMES
Published: April 2016

We compute the effects on the Alaska economy of reduced pollock harvests from rising sea surface temperature using a regional dynamic computable general equilibrium model coupled with a stochastic stock‐yield projection model for eastern Bering Sea walleye pollock. We show that the effects of decreased pollock harvest are offset to some extent by increased pollock price, and that fuel costs and the world demand for the fish, as well as the reduced supply of the fish from rising sea surface temperature, are also important factors that determine the economic and welfare effects.
Generation of tribenuron‐methyl herbicide‐resistant OsCYP81A6‐expressing rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) plants for hybrid seed production using chemical‐induced male sterility
Authors: Yao Xuan , Wang Yaqin , Yue Xiaopeng , Liu Meng , Liu Kede
Published: April 2016

Chemical‐induced male sterility (CIMS) is a method for hybrid rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) production. Some sulphonylurea herbicides such as tribenuron‐methyl (TBM) are used as chemical hybridization agents (CHAs) in CIMS systems. However, the male parents must be protected from herbicide injury with a shield during spraying of the female parents with CHAs to induce male sterility. Thus, using herbicide‐resistant rapeseed lines as the male parents can significantly simplify the seed production procedure and reduce the cost in hybrid seed production. A rice cytochrome P450 hydroxylase, OsCYP81A6, has been previously characterized to confer resistance to bentazon and sulphonylurea herbicides. We demonstrate here that the introduction of OsCYP81A6 renders rapeseed plants resistant to TBM. Compared with wild‐type plants, the transgenic plants displayed normal stamen development and male fertility when treated with 0.05 mg/l of TBM, the dose used for inducing male sterility in hybrid seed production. These results indicate that the OsCYP81A6‐expressing rapeseed plants can be used as the male parents for hybrid rapeseed production using CIMS.
Organelle redox autonomy during environmental stress
Authors: Bratt Avishay , Rosenwasser Shilo , Meyer Andreas , Fluhr Robert
Published: April 2016

Oxidative stress is generated in plants because of inequalities in the rate of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and scavenging. The subcellular redox state under various stress conditions was assessed using the redox reporter roGFP2 targeted to chloroplastic, mitochondrial, peroxisomal and cytosolic compartments. In parallel, the vitality of the plant was measured by ion leakage. Our results revealed that during certain physiological stress conditions the changes in roGFP2 oxidation are comparable to application of high concentrations of exogenous H2O2. Under each stress, particular organelles were affected. Conditions of extended dark stress, or application of elicitor, impacted chiefly on the status of peroxisomal redox state. In contrast, conditions of drought or high light altered the status of mitochondrial or chloroplast redox state, respectively. Amalgamation of the results from diverse environmental stresses shows cases of organelle autonomy as well as multi‐organelle oxidative change. Importantly, organelle‐specific oxidation under several stresses proceeded cell death as measured by ion leakage, suggesting early roGFP oxidation as predictive of cell death. The measurement of redox state in multiple compartments enables one to look at redox state connectivity between organelles in relation to oxidative stress as well as assign a redox fingerprint to various types of stress conditions.
A loss‐of‐function allele of OsHMA3 associated with high cadmium accumulation in shoots and grain of Japonica rice cultivars
Authors: Yan Jiali , Wang Peitong , Wang Peng , Yang Meng , Lian Xingming , Tang Zhong , Huang Chao‐Feng , Salt David E. , Zhao Fang Jie
Published: April 2016

Excessive cadmium (Cd) accumulation in rice poses a risk to food safety. OsHMA3 plays an important role in restricting Cd translocation from roots to shoots. A non‐functional allele of OsHMA3 has been reported in some Indica rice cultivars with high Cd accumulation, but it is not known if OsHMA3 allelic variation is associated with Cd accumulation in Japonica cultivars. In this study, we identified a Japonica cultivar with consistently high Cd accumulation in shoots and grain in both field and greenhouse experiments. The cultivar possesses an OsHMA3 allele with a predicted amino acid mutation at the 380th position from Ser to Arg. The haplotype had no Cd transport activity when the gene was expressed in yeast, and the allele did not complement a known nonfunctional allele of OsHMA3 in F1 test. The allele is present only in temperate Japonica cultivars among diversity panels of 1483 rice cultivars. Different cultivars possessing this allele showed greatly increased root‐to‐shoot Cd translocation and a shift in root Cd speciation from Cd―S to Cd―O bonding determined by synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. Our study has identified a new loss‐of‐function allele of OsHMA3 in Japonica rice cultivars leading to high Cd accumulation in shoots and grain.
Element distribution and iron speciation in mature wheat grains (Triticum aestivum L.) using synchrotron X‐ray fluorescence microscopy mapping and X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) imaging
Authors: De Brier Niels , Gomand Sara V. , Donner Erica , Paterson David , Smolders Erik , Delcour Jan A. , Lombi Enzo
Published: April 2016

Several studies have suggested that the majority of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in wheat grains are associated with phytate, but a nuanced approach to unravel important tissue‐level variation in element speciation within the grain is lacking. Here, we present spatially resolved Fe‐speciation data obtained directly from different grain tissues using the newly developed synchrotron‐based technique of X‐ray absorption near‐edge spectroscopy imaging, coupling this with high‐definition μ‐X‐ray fluorescence microscopy to map the co‐localization of essential elements. In the aleurone, phosphorus (P) is co‐localized with Fe and Zn, and X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure imaging confirmed that Fe is chelated by phytate in this tissue layer. In the crease tissues, Zn is also positively related to P distribution, albeit less so than in the aleurone. Speciation analysis suggests that Fe is bound to nicotianamine rather than phytate in the nucellar projection, and that more complex Fe structures may also be present. In the embryo, high Zn concentrations are present in the root and shoot primordium, co‐occurring with sulfur and presumably bound to thiol groups. Overall, Fe is mainly concentrated in the scutellum and co‐localized with P. This high resolution imaging and speciation analysis reveals the complexity of the physiological processes responsible for element accumulation and bioaccessibility.
Pharmacokinetics of drugs for pediatric pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Nakau Kouichi , Sugimoto Masaya , Oka Hideharu , Kajihama Aya , Maeda Jun , Yamagishi Hiroyuki , Kamiyama Naoya , Tasaki Yoshikazu , Kajino Hiroki , Azuma Hiroshi
Published: April 2016

Background

Over the past few years, several drugs, each with a different mechanism, have been developed for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and are now prescribed in the clinical setting. While the optimal doses of these drugs in adults have been determined, the optimal dose in children, however, is unclear. The aim of this study was therefore, to measure blood drug levels and analyze the pharmacokinetics of two such drugs in children.

Methods

From April 2010 to May 2015, we prospectively enrolled 23 children with PH for treatment with bosentan and/or tadalafil. Twenty children were treated with bosentan and 19 received tadalafil. Sixteen children were given both drugs. Blood samples were collected after 2 weeks of treatment, and blood drug levels measured using high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

For both drugs, the peak plasma concentration was lower and the half‐life was shorter than the known values in adults. The blood trough level of bosentan significantly correlated with its dose, but no such correlation was seen for tadalafil. For both drugs, no correlation was observed between age and blood drug levels.

Conclusions

Oral dosing with bosentan and tadalafil in children may not achieve therapeutic blood concentration. Thus, the optimal dosing must be established individually while monitoring blood drug level.
Ultrasonic vs. hand instrumentation in periodontal therapy: clinical outcomes
Authors: Krishna Ranjitha , De Stefano Jamie A.
Published: April 2016

Periodontal disease is the most common oral disease in adults. Traditional nonsurgical periodontal therapy involves subgingival removal of hard and soft deposits on the root surface, along with maintenance of good oral hygiene. Nonsurgical periodontal therapy can either be definitive or part of the initial phase before surgical therapy. Mechanical therapy, either with hand or ultrasonic instrumentation, is the keystone of nonsurgical periodontal therapy. This requires considerable amounts of time and a high level of operator skill. The use of appropriate instruments greatly increases clinical efficiency. This article discusses the use of ultrasonic and hand instrumentation, along with recent advances, and the benefits of adjunctive therapy during nonsurgical periodontal therapy.
Framing Food Policy: The Case of Raw Milk
Authors: Rahn Wendy M. , Gollust Sarah E. , Tang Xuyang
Published: April 2016

Policies governing the sale of raw milk—making the sales of raw milk more permissive—are gaining traction on the legislative agendas of dozens of states. This paper examines one contributor to this movement on the policy agenda: the role of competitive framing. By combining theoretical approaches from policy studies and political psychology theories of competitive framing, we offer evidence supporting the recent relative success of raw milk activists in several state legislatures. Using an Internet survey‐based experiment with a sample size of 1,630 respondents from seven Midwestern states, we show that a frame emphasizing consumer choice and food freedom is more effective than the frame that dominates among the policy establishment, that emphasizing public health risks. This is true in both one‐sided and competitive framing contexts. We further show that those previously aware of this issue were less influenced by the public health frame than those naïve to the issue. Our results suggest that the pro‐raw milk movement may be making strides on the state policy agenda because their frames are more resonant among the public. We also highlight the advantages gained from considering psychological and policy processes simultaneously to understand policy change.
Pre‐Selection Test to Identify High Responder Donor Goats
Authors: Balaro MFA , Brandão FZ , Maia ALRS , Souza‐Fabjan JMG , Cueto MI , Gibbons AE , Fonseca JF
Published: April 2016

Contents

The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of pre‐selection of high or low responder does prior to the superovulatory protocols. Twenty Saanen does received 800 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) at the end of long‐term progestogen treatment. Fourteen days later, a second progestogen protocol associated with a multiple‐dose follicle stimulation hormone (FSH) treatment (5 IU/kg of FSH, in six decreasing doses between days 4 to 6 of the protocol) was administered. Transrectal ultrasound was used to assess the follicular status at the beginning of superovulatory treatments, at the oestrous onset and on the seventh day of the oestrous cycle for counting corpora lutea (CL). A significant lower number of CL was obtained in eCG‐treated in comparision with FSH‐treated does (p < 0.05). A quartic regression was able to explain the relationship between the number of CL in response to both treatments (r2=0.50; p < 0.05). Seventy per cent (14 of 20) of does maintained the same ovulatory response (high or low) after treatments. The Kappa (κ = 0.40; p < 0.05) and Spearman (rs = 0.39; p = 0.08) coefficients were able to show a relationship between treatments. Regarding the follicular status, there is a significant relationship between the number of small follicles (r = 0.71; r2=0.47; p < 0.01) and total follicles (r = 0.60; p < 0.01) at eCG and first FSH dose with the number of CL. Moreover, it was found a negative relationship between the presence of large follicles and the number of CL in response to eCG treatment (r = −0.44; p < 0.05), but not from FSH (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the screening test with eCG has the potential to identify Saanen does that will better respond to the superovulatory protocol with FSH. In addition, it highlighted the importance of an ultrasound evaluation prior to the beginning of superovulatory treatments with FSH to characterize the follicular status and identify the potential donors of high ovulatory response in MOET programmes in goats.
Defender–Attacker Decision Tree Analysis to Combat Terrorism
Authors: Garcia Ryan J. B. , von Winterfeldt Detlof
Published: April 2016

We propose a methodology, called defender–attacker decision tree analysis, to evaluate defensive actions against terrorist attacks in a dynamic and hostile environment. Like most game‐theoretic formulations of this problem, we assume that the defenders act rationally by maximizing their expected utility or minimizing their expected costs. However, we do not assume that attackers maximize their expected utilities. Instead, we encode the defender's limited knowledge about the attacker's motivations and capabilities as a conditional probability distribution over the attacker's decisions. We apply this methodology to the problem of defending against possible terrorist attacks on commercial airplanes, using one of three weapons: infrared‐guided MANPADS (man‐portable air defense systems), laser‐guided MANPADS, or visually targeted RPGs (rocket propelled grenades). We also evaluate three countermeasures against these weapons: DIRCMs (directional infrared countermeasures), perimeter control around the airport, and hardening airplanes. The model includes deterrence effects, the effectiveness of the countermeasures, and the substitution of weapons and targets once a specific countermeasure is selected. It also includes a second stage of defensive decisions after an attack occurs. Key findings are: (1) due to the high cost of the countermeasures, not implementing countermeasures is the preferred defensive alternative for a large range of parameters; (2) if the probability of an attack and the associated consequences are large, a combination of DIRCMs and ground perimeter control are preferred over any single countermeasure.
OVERPOPULATION, OPTIMAL CITY SIZE AND THE EFFICIENCY OF URBAN SPRAWL
Authors: Burnett Perry
Published: April 2016

This paper estimates the degree of overpopulation in a city by combining theoretical work on optimal city size with a data‐intensive computable general equilibrium model of a medium‐sized city (Fort Collins, Colorado). The hypothesized inverted‐U of real income per worker in optimal city size literature is reproduced using pecuniary externalities given the unequal distribution of land and capital income to resident households. The results show that household distribution is skewed toward upper income households of overpopulated cities. Policy implications suggest that urban sprawl, increased commuting, and export‐oriented retail growth reduce overpopulation leading to efficiency gains, as does export growth in services and total factor productivity growth in manufacturing.
Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 Variant rs1800532 is Associated with Suicide Attempt in Serbian Psychiatric Patients but does not Moderate the Effect of Recent Stressful Life Events
Authors: Karanović Jelena , Ivković Maja , Jovanović Vladimir M. , Pantović Maja , Pavlović‐Janković Nataša , Damjanović Aleksandar , Brajušković Goran , Romac Stanka , Savić‐Pavićević Dušanka
Published: April 2016

Tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) gene, coding for serotonin synthesizing enzyme, and recent stressful life events (SLEs) have been commonly associated with suicidal behavior. TPH1 has been also hypothesized to be involved in stress–response mechanisms. The aim of this study was to assess TPH1 variant rs1800532 and its possible interaction with recent SLEs as risk factors for suicide attempt (SA) in Serbian psychiatric patients, including 165 suicide attempters and 188 suicide nonattempters. rs1800532 and recent SLEs were independently associated with SA, while rs1800532 did not moderate the effect of recent SLEs on SA vulnerability among Serbian psychiatric patients.
The Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program: Description and Pilot Data
Authors: Miller Ivan W. , Gaudiano Brandon A. , Weinstock Lauren M.
Published: April 2016

A description of and pilot data for a new adjunctive intervention designed to reduce suicidal behavior among high‐risk individuals are presented. The Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program (CLASP) has three major components: (1) three individual, in‐person meetings, (2) one significant other/family meeting, and (3) 11 brief (15–30 minute) phone contacts with the patient and his/her significant other. Open trial and pilot randomized trial data provide preliminary evidence that CLASP is a feasible, acceptable, and efficacious intervention to reduce suicidal behavior.
Connecting Eating Pathology with Risk for Engaging in Suicidal Behavior: The Mediating Role of Experiential Avoidance
Authors: Skinner Kayla D. , Rojas Sasha M. , Veilleux Jennifer C.
Published: April 2016

Individuals with eating pathology, particularly those with diagnosed eating disorders, are at high risk for suicide. It is less clear whether undiagnosed eating pathology and subsyndromal eating disorders carry the same risk and, if so, what mechanisms may explain why higher levels of eating pathology yield greater risk for engaging in suicidal behaviors. The indirect relationship between disordered eating and risk for suicidal behaviors via facets of experiential avoidance was tested using a multiple‐mediator model. The model was tested using bootstrapping estimates of indirect effects in a sample of 218 noncollege student adults (Mage = 32.33, 66.1% women) with a history of suicidal attempt and/or history of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI). Results revealed that disordered eating indirectly predicted risk for suicidal behaviors, distress aversion (i.e., negative attitudes or dislike of distress), and procrastination (i.e., delaying engagement with distressing activities). Results suggest that targeting experiential avoidance and helping those who have a history of engaging in suicidal behaviors and/or NSSI develop regulation strategies to use during times of distress may be of utmost importance for treatment and prevention of eating pathology.
Effects of velocity loss during resistance training on athletic performance, strength gains and muscle adaptations
Authors: Pareja‐Blanco F. , Rodríguez‐Rosell D. , Sánchez‐Medina L. , Sanchis‐Moysi J. , Dorado C. , Mora‐Custodio R. , Yáñez‐García J. M. , Morales‐Alamo D. , Pérez‐Suárez I. , Calbet J. A. L. , González‐Badillo J. J.
Published: April 2016

We compared the effects of two resistance training (RT) programs only differing in the repetition velocity loss allowed in each set: 20% (VL20) vs 40% (VL40) on muscle structural and functional adaptations. Twenty‐two young males were randomly assigned to a VL20 (n = 12) or VL40 (n = 10) group. Subjects followed an 8‐week velocity‐based RT program using the squat exercise while monitoring repetition velocity. Pre‐ and post‐training assessments included: magnetic resonance imaging, vastus lateralis biopsies for muscle cross‐sectional area (CSA) and fiber type analyses, one‐repetition maximum strength and full load‐velocity squat profile, countermovement jump (CMJ), and 20‐m sprint running. VL20 resulted in similar squat strength gains than VL40 and greater improvements in CMJ (9.5% vs 3.5%, P < 0.05), despite VL20 performing 40% fewer repetitions. Although both groups increased mean fiber CSA and whole quadriceps muscle volume, VL40 training elicited a greater hypertrophy of vastus lateralis and intermedius than VL20. Training resulted in a reduction of myosin heavy chain IIX percentage in VL40, whereas it was preserved in VL20. In conclusion, the progressive accumulation of muscle fatigue as indicated by a more pronounced repetition velocity loss appears as an important variable in the configuration of the resistance exercise stimulus as it influences functional and structural neuromuscular adaptations.
The prevalence and clinical significance of premature ventricular beats in the athlete
Authors: D'Ascenzi F. , Zorzi A. , Alvino F. , Bonifazi M. , Corrado D. , Mondillo S.
Published: April 2016

Adolescents and adults with cardiovascular disease who are engaged in sports activity have an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) that is three times greater than that of their non‐athletic counterparts. Sport acts as a trigger for cardiac arrest in the presence of underlying cardiovascular diseases predisposing to life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Frequent and complex premature ventricular beats (PVBs) detected during the cardiovascular screening of the athletic population may be a sign of an underlying cardiovascular disease at risk of SCD, but are also often recorded in trained athletes without cardiovascular abnormalities. Thus, the interpretation of PVBs could represent a clinical dilemma, particularly in the athlete. However, while some characteristics of PVBs can be considered common and benign, others occur uncommonly in the athletic population and raise the suspicion of an underlying cardiovascular disease. This review discusses the prevalence and clinical significance of PVBs in the athlete, with a focus on exercise‐induced PVBs, on the analysis of PVB's morphology at 12‐lead ECG, and on the morphological substrates identified by imaging techniques. The implications on eligibility for competitive sports participation are also discussed, according to the relevance of PVB detection for disqualifying athletes from competitions.
Vertical stiffness asymmetries during drop jumping are related to ankle stiffness asymmetries
Authors: Maloney S. J. , Richards J. , Nixon D. G. D. , Harvey L. J. , Fletcher I. M.
Published: April 2016

Asymmetry in vertical stiffness has been associated with increased injury incidence and impaired performance. The determinants of vertical stiffness asymmetry have not been previously investigated. Eighteen healthy men performed three unilateral drop jumps during which vertical stiffness and joint stiffness of the ankle and knee were calculated. Reactive strength index was also determined during the jumps using the ratio of flight time to ground contact time. “Moderate” differences in vertical stiffness (t17 = 5.49; P < 0.001), “small” differences in center of mass displacement (t17 = −2.19; P = 0.043), and “trivial” differences in ankle stiffness (t17 = 2.68; P = 0.016) were observed between stiff and compliant limbs. A model including ankle stiffness and reactive strength index symmetry angles explained 79% of the variance in vertical stiffness asymmetry (R2 = 0.79; P < 0.001). None of the symmetry angles were correlated to jump height or reactive strength index. Results suggest that asymmetries in ankle stiffness may play an important role in modulating vertical stiffness asymmetry in recreationally trained men.
Putting Physics First: Three Case Studies of High School Science Department and Course Sequence Reorganization
Authors: Larkin Douglas B.
Published: April 2016

This article examines the process of shifting to a “Physics First” sequence in science course offerings in three school districts in the United States. This curricular sequence reverses the more common U.S. high school sequence of biology/chemistry/physics, and has gained substantial support in the physics education community over the past few decades. Using qualitative case study methodology, the present study focuses on the lessons learned in three school districts that successfully rearranged their course offerings and made physics a ninth‐grade subject for all of its students. Findings show that in all districts, the shift was undertaken to support student learning in mathematics and in future science learning. In every case, the coordination between ninth grade physics and ninth‐grade algebra was much more difficult than expected. Also, during most transitions, the number of students taking biology dropped precipitously for a period of 1–2 years. Though there is shared agreement about Physics First as the realignment of the high school curricular sequence, there is less consensus about how such programs ought to be aligned with mathematics curricula. The article concludes with suggestions for sources of evidence in conducting effectiveness studies on the Physics First approach.
Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis: introgressive hybridization?
Authors: ZURITA ANTONIO , CALLEJÓN ROCÍO , DE ROJAS MANUEL , HALAJIAN ALI , CUTILLAS CRISTINA
Published: April 2016

In the present work, a comparative molecular study of Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis isolated from dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) from different geographical regions (Spain, Iran and South Africa) was carried out. We found morphological variations in C. felis that do not correspond with molecular differences. The Internal Transcribed Spacers 1 and 2 (ITS1, ITS2) and 18S rRNA partial gene, and cytochrome c‐oxidase 1 (cox1) mtDNA partial gene sequences were determined to clarify the taxonomic status of these two species, and to assess interpopulation variation and interspecific sequence differences. In addition, a comparative phylogenetic study with other species of fleas using Bayesian, Maximum Parsimony and Maximum Likelihood analysis was performed. The 18S rRNA partial gene fragment was useful neither to discriminate C. canis and C. felis nor to infer phylogenetic relationships at this level, whereas ITS1 and ITS2 assessed for specific determination in the genus Ctenocephalides. The cox1 mtDNA sequences of C. felis revealed three main haplotypes and we suggest that there has been introgression of C. canis cox1 mtDNA into C. felis by Wolbachia pipientis. Based on cox1 sequences, restriction mapping identified many endonucleases that could be used to delineate different haplotypes of C. felis and to differentiate C. felis and C. canis.
The Minorca Basin: a buffer zone between the Valencia and Liguro‐Provençal Basins (NW Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Pellen Romain , Aslanian Daniel , Rabineau Marina , Leroux Estelle , Gorini Christian , Silenziario Carmine , Blanpied Christian , Rubino Jean‐Loup
Published: April 2016

Detailed analyses of seismic profiles and boreholes in the Valencia Basin (VB) reveal a differentiated basin, the Minorca Basin (MB), lying between the old Mesozoic Valencia Basin sensu strico (VBss) and the young Oligocene Liguro‐Provençal Basin (LPB). The relationship between these basins is shown through the correlation of four Miocene‐to‐present‐day megasequences. The Central and North Balearic Fracture Zones (CFZ and NBFZ) that border the MB represent two morphological and geodynamical thresholds that created an accommodation in steps between the three domains. Little to no horizontal Neogene movements are found for the Ibiza and Majorca Islands. In contrast, the counterclockwise movement of the Corso‐Sardinian blocks induced a counterclockwise movement of the Minorca block towards the SE along the CFZ and NBFZ, during the exhumation of lower continental crust in the LPB. This new understanding implies pure Neogene vertical subsidence in the VBss and places the AlKaPeCa northeastward of the present‐day Alboran Area.
Late sequelae of left ventricular assist device infection presenting after heart transplant
Authors: Dulanto Chiang A. , Narsana N. , Ruiz M.E.
Published: April 2016

The long‐term use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) is becoming more common among the end‐stage heart failure population. At the time of heart transplantation, most of the LVAD is removed, but some of its components might be retained. Retained LVAD prosthetic material can lead to serious infection post heart transplant. We report 4 such cases. Our goal is to highlight the importance of complete prosthetic material removal at the time of cardiac transplant to prevent late‐onset infection, especially in patients with preceding infection, but also in patients without evidence of LVAD infection prior to orthotopic heart transplantation.
Human Fumarate Hydratase Is Dual Localized by an Alternative Transcription Initiation Mechanism
Authors: Dik Ekaterina , Naamati Adi , Asraf Hadar , Lehming Norbert , Pines Ophry
Published: April 2016

Fumarate hydratase (FH, fumarase), is a tricarboxylic acid cycle enzyme localized in the mitochondrial matrix. However, a common theme, conserved from yeast to human, is the existence of a large cytosolic population of FH. FH has been shown to function as a tumor suppressor gene and is now implicated in various diseases. We have previously indicated that the cytosolic echoform of FH has a role in the DNA damage response and specifically in the response to DNA double strand breaks. In fact, recently FH has been shown to be involved in histone demethylation. Therefore, it has become important to understand the underlying mechanism of FH dual subcellular location in human cells. We revealed that in human cells, in contrast to yeast, the FH gene encodes two gene products, one containing and one lacking the mitochondrial targeting sequence. On the basis of expression of endogenous wild‐type FH and mutant FH cDNAs from plasmids, RT‐PCR, RACE to determine the 5′ termini of FH mRNAs, and mass spectrometry of FH products, we show that the mechanism of FH distribution is alternative transcription initiation from a broad promoter. This is contrary to the suggested mechanism for rat liver cells which had claimed alternative translation initiation.
Relevance of flow cytometric enumeration of post‐thaw leucocytes: influence of temperature during cell staining on viable cell recovery
Authors: Fritsch G. , Frank N. , Dmytrus J. , Frech C. , Pichler H. , Witt V. , Geyeregger R. , Scharner D. , Trbojevic D. , Zipperer E. , Printz D. , Worel N.
Published: April 2016

Background and Objectives

Our post‐thaw cell recovery rates differed substantially in interlaboratory comparisons of identical samples, potentially due to different temperatures during cell staining.

Materials and Methods

Viable CD34+ cells and leucocyte (WBC) subtypes were quantified by multiparameter single‐platform flow cytometry in leucapheresis products collected from 30 adult lymphoma and myeloma patients, and from 10 paediatric patients. After thawing, cells were prepared for analysis within 30 min between thawing and acquisition, at either 4°C or at room temperature.

Results

For cell products cryopreserved in conventional freezing medium (10% final DMSO), viable cell recovery was clearly lower after staining at 4°C than at RT. Of all WBC subtypes analysed, CD4+ T cells showed the lowest median recovery of 4% (4°C) vs. 25% (RT), followed by CD3, CD34 and CD8 cells. The recovery was highest for CD3γδ cells with 44% (4°C) vs. 71% (RT). In the 10 samples cryopreserved in synthetic freezing medium (5% final DMSO), median recovery rates were 89% for viable CD34 (both at 4°C and RT) and 79% (4°C) vs 68% (RT) for WBC.

Conclusions

The post‐thaw environment and, potentially, the cryoprotectant impact the outcome of cell enumeration, and results from the analysis tube may not be representative of the cells infused into a patient.
COMPARISON OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND ABDOMINAL RADIOGRAPHY FOR DETECTION OF CANINE MECHANICAL INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION
Authors: Drost Wm Tod , Green Eric M. , Zekas Lisa J. , Aarnes Turi K. , Su Lillian , Habing Gregory G.
Published: April 2016

Vomiting, often caused by mechanical intestinal obstruction, is common in dogs. Equivocal radiographic signs often necessitate repeat radiographs or additional imaging procedures. For our prospective, case‐controlled, accuracy study, we hypothesized the following: (1) using computed tomography (CT), radiologists will be more sensitive and specific for detecting mechanical intestinal obstruction and recommending surgery compared to using radiographs; and (2) using measurements, radiologists will be more sensitive and specific using radiographs or CT for detecting mechanical intestinal obstruction and recommending surgery. Twenty dogs had abdominal radiographs and abdominal CT. Seventeen dogs had abdominal surgery and three dogs were not obstructed based on clinical follow‐up. Confidence levels (five‐point scale) of three experienced radiologists for mechanical intestinal obstruction and recommending surgery were recorded before and after making selected measurements. Eight dogs had surgically confirmed mechanical intestinal obstruction, and 12 dogs did not have obstruction. For detecting mechanical intestinal obstruction, CT was more sensitive (95.8% vs. 79.2%) and specific (80.6% vs. 69.4%) compared to radiographs, but the difference was not statistically significant. For recommending surgery, radiography was more sensitive (91.7% vs. 83.3%) and specific (83.3% vs. 72.2%) than using CT, but differences were not statistically significant. We reported objective CT measurements for predicting small mechanical intestinal obstruction. By incorporating these objective data, the diagnosis of mechanical intestinal obstruction changed in five of 120 instances (radiographs and CT). In no instance (0/120), did the objective data change the recommendation for surgery. Using CT or abdominal radiographs for the detection of canine mechanical intestinal obstruction is sensitive and specific when evaluated by experienced veterinary radiologists.
A cost and clinical effectiveness analysis among moist wound healing dressings versus traditional methods in home care patients with pressure ulcers
Authors: Souliotis Kyriakos , Kalemikerakis Ioannis , Saridi Maria , Papageorgiou Manto , Kalokerinou Athena
Published: April 2016

The aim of the study was a cost and clinical effectiveness analysis between moist wound healing dressings and gauze in a homecare set up for the treatment of stage III and IV pressure ulcers up to complete healing. In addition, we assessed the overall economic burden on the Healthcare System. Treatment method for each patient was chosen randomly by using sealed opaque envelopes. The authors monitored the healing progress and recorded treatment costs without interfering with the treatment process. The healing progress was estimated by using surface measurement transparent films. To estimate treatment costs, the authors took into account labor costs, cost of dressings, as well the cost of other materials such as cleansing gauzes, normal saline, syringes, examination gloves, antiseptics and adhesive tape. The patient group under treatment with moist wound healing dressings consisted of 27 men and 20 women aged 75.1 ± 8,6 and had an average ulcer surface of 43.5 ± 30.70 cm2; the patient group under treatment with gauze comprised 25 men and 23 women aged 77.02 ± 8.02 and had an average ulcer surface 41.52 ± 29.41 cm2 (p = 0.25, 95% CI, Student's t test). The average healing time for the moist wound healing dressings group' was 85.56 ± 52.09 days, while 121.4 ± 52.21 days for the “gauze group” (p = 0.0001, 95% CI, Student's t test). The dressing change frequency per patient was reduced in the “moist wound healing dressings group,” 49.5 ± 29.61, compared with a dressing change frequency per patient of 222.6 ± 101.86 for the “gauze group” (p = 0.0001, 95% CI, Student's t test). The use of moist wound healing dressings had a lower total treatment cost of 1,351 € per patient compared with, the use of gauzes (3,888 €).
Phylogeny and taxonomic reassessment of pikas Ochotona pallasii and O. argentata (Mammalia, Lagomorpha)
Authors: Lissovsky Andrey A. , Yatsentyuk Svetlana P. , Ge Deyan
Published: April 2016

We examined a cranial morphometric data set consisting of 186 specimens from the entire distribution range of Ochotona pallasii sensu lato and O. argentata, as well as 67 complete sequences of the COI gene and 28 sequences of the MGF and PRKCI introns from these and closely allied species. Our results show that the two allopatric morphologically similar taxa composing O. pallasii sensu lato – from Mongolia and adjacent territories and Kazakhstan – are paraphyletic relative to O. argentata. Genetic distances between these three taxa are larger than the intraspecific variation known for the subgenus Pika, in which the species under consideration belong; these distances are even larger than the interspecific differences among closely related species such as O. hyperborea, O. mantchurica and O. hoffmanni. Thus, the three focal taxa are recognized here as distinct species. Inspection of the type specimen of O. pallasii indicated that this specimen was not collected in Kazakhstan, has previously been theorized. The most probable place of the holotype's origin is Russian south‐eastern Altai (Chuyskaya Steppe); whatever its exact origin, it definitively originates from the ‘Mongolian’ taxon. Based on this evidence, the senior synonym for the Kazakh pika is O. opaca Argyropulo, 1930. Thus, we propose to recognize three separate species in the O. pallasii species group: O. pallasii (Mongolia and adjacent territories), O. opaca (eastern Kazakhstan) and O. argentata (Helan Shan Range, China).
Role of enteroendocrine L‐cells in arginine vasopressin‐mediated inhibition of colonic anion secretion
Authors: Pais Ramona , Rievaj Juraj , Meek Claire , De Costa Gayan , Jayamaha Samanthie , Alexander R. Todd , Reimann Frank , Gribble Fiona
Published: April 2016

Key points

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) stimulates the release of enteroendocrine L‐cell derived hormones glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and peptide YY (PYY) in vitro from mouse and human colons.

This is mediated by the AVP receptor 1B, which is highly enriched in colonic L‐cells and linked to the elevation of L‐cell calcium and cAMP concentrations.

By means of Ussing chambers, we show that AVP reduced colonic anion secretion, although this was blocked by a specific neuropeptide Y receptor Y1 receptor antagonist, suggesting that L‐cell‐released PYY acts locally on the epithelium to modulate fluid balance.

In human serum samples, PYY concentrations were higher in samples with raised osmolality and copeptin (surrogate marker for AVP).

These findings describe, for the first time, the role of L‐cells in AVP regulated intestinal fluid secretion, potentially linking together hormonal control of blood volume and blood glucose levels, and thus adding to our understanding of the complex pathways involved in the gut hormonal response to different stimuli.

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) regulates fluid balance and blood pressure via AVP receptor (AVPR)2 in the kidney and AVP receptor 1A in vascular smooth muscle. Its role in intestinal function has received less attention. We hypothesized that enteroendocrine L‐cells producing glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) and peptide YY (PYY) may be a target of AVP and contribute to the control of fluid balance. Avpr1b expression was assessed by quantitative RT‐PCR on flourescence‐activated cell sorting‐isolated L‐ and control cells and was enriched in colonic L‐cells. AVP stimulated GLP‐1 and PYY release from primary cultured murine and human colonic cells and was associated with elevated calcium and cAMP concentrations in L‐cells as measured in cultures from GLU‐Cre/ROSA26‐GCaMP3 and GLU‐Epac2camps mice. An antagonist of AVPR1B reduced AVP‐triggered hormone secretion from murine and human cells. In Ussing chambers, basolaterally applied AVP reduced colonic anion secretion and this effect was blocked by a specific neuropeptide Y receptor Y1 (NPY1R) antagonist. In human serum, PYY concentrations were higher in samples with raised osmolality or copeptin (a surrogate marker for AVP). In conclusion, we propose that AVP activates L‐cell AVPR1B, causing GLP‐1 and PYY secretion. PYY in turn reduces colonic anion secretion via epithelial NPY1R. Our data suggest L‐cells are active players in the hypothalamic control of intestinal fluid homeostasis, providing a potential link between the regulation of blood volume/pressure/osmolality and blood glucose.