bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subtle individual variation in indeterminate growth leads to major variation in survival and lifetime reproductive output in a long‐lived reptile
Authors: Armstrong Doug P. , Keevil Matthew G. , Rollinson Njal , Brooks Ronald J.
Published: November 2017

The consequences of individual variation in life‐history traits have been well studied due to their importance in evolutionary ecology. However, a trait that has received little empirical attention is the rate of indeterminate growth. In long‐lived ectotherms, subtle variation in growth after maturity could have major effects over the animals’ lifetimes.

These effects are difficult to measure due to the challenges involved in reliably estimating individual variation in the face of environmental stochasticity, and the need to account for trade‐offs among growth, reproduction and survival. However, modelling advances have made such analysis possible if long‐term high‐quality datasets are available.

We used an integrated state‐space modelling framework to reveal relationships between indeterminate growth, reproduction and survival in a population of North American snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) using a 41‐year dataset for 298 adult females.

A hierarchical version of the von Bertalanffy model fitted to data on carapace lengths showed substantial individual variation in growth trajectories, and hierarchical models fitted to clutch‐mass data and recapture histories showed that reproductive output and survival probability increased with size. Integration of these models revealed no detectable trade‐offs—i.e., individual growth parameters were not correlated with size‐specific survival or reproduction rates, and individual variation in reproductive output did not affect the size‐specific survival rate. Consequently, individual variation in growth parameters was estimated to result in >2‐fold variation in post‐maturity life expectancy and >4‐fold variation in expected lifetime reproductive output.

These results illustrate that indeterminate growth can have major fitness consequences in long‐lived species. We suggest that the individual variation in growth rates reflects variation in environments experienced during development or later life. An understanding of this variation may be essential for predicting the population dynamics of long‐lived species under threat and identifying the most important environments to protect.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Time domain electromagnetic‐induced polarisation: extracting more induced polarisation information from grounded source time domain electromagnetic data
Authors: Kang Seogi , Oldenburg Douglas W.
Published: November 2017

Electrical induced polarisation surveys are used to detect chargeable materials in the earth. For interpretation of time domain electrical‐induced polarisation data a common procedure is to first invert the direct current data (electric current on time) to recover conductivity and then invert the induced polarisation data (current off‐time) to recover chargeability. This direct current‐induced polarisation inversion procedure assumes that the off time data are free of secondary electromagnetic induction effects. To comply with this, early time data are often discarded or not recorded. For mid‐time data, an electromagnetic decoupling technique, which removes electromagnetic induction in the observations, needs to be implemented. Usually, responses from a half‐space or a layered earth are subtracted. Recent capability in three‐dimensional time domain electromagnetic forward modelling and inversion allows to revisit these procedures. In a Time domain electromagnetic‐induced polarisation survey, a high sampling rate allows early time channels of the electromagnetic data to be recorded. The recovery of chargeability then follows a three‐step workflow: (i) invert early time channel time domain electromagnetic data to recover the three‐dimensional conductivity; (ii) use that conductivity to compute the time domain electromagnetic response at later time channels and subtract this fundamental response from the observations to extract the induced polarisation responses, and (iii) invert the induced polarisation responses to recover a three‐dimensional chargeability. This workflow effectively removes electromagnetic induction effects in the observations and produces better chargeability and conductivity models compared with conventional approaches. In a synthetic example involving a gradient array, we show that the conductivity structure obtained from the early time channel data, which are usually discarded, is superior to that obtained from the steady state direct current voltages. This adds a further reason to collect these electromagnetic data.
Integrating decision triggers into conservation management practice
Authors: de Bie Kelly , Addison Prue F. E. , Cook Carly N.
Published: November 2017

Decision triggers show great potential for facilitating timely management action, promoting evidence‐based management and preventing undesirable changes to the status of species, ecosystems and threats. Integration of decision triggers into day‐to‐day management practice has been slow, constrained by insufficient resources and limited in‐house expertise. Arguably, the greatest impediment is the lack of an overarching process with robust and accessible methods for developing and implementing decision triggers in a manner that fits within an organization's established processes and skill sets.

We identify the steps necessary for setting decision triggers and highlight how these steps align with commonly used conservation planning and management frameworks, for ease of adoption.

We emphasize that decision triggers do not require a known ecological threshold, and can be applied to data‐rich and data‐poor contexts, with single or multiple management objectives.

Synthesis and applications. This work highlights the necessary steps involved, and importantly, the suite of methods that can be used to set decision triggers, with the aim of supporting practitioners in the development of robust and defensible decision triggers.
Sunken Cities: Climate Change, Urban Futures and the Imagination of Submergence
Authors: Dobraszczyk Paul
Published: November 2017

Climate change presents multiple challenges to cities—not only in terms of the resilience and sustainability of the urban fabric, but also in relation to how urban inhabitants imagine they might adapt to a future transformed environment. This article explores imaginative modes of thinking in relation to future cities and climate change, focusing on representations of urban drowning or submergence. It considers, in turn, climate‐change fictions—from J.G. Ballard's 1962 novelThe Drowned Worldto Paulo Bacigalupi'sThe Drowned Cities, published in 2012; visual representations from Gustave Doré'sThe New Zealanderin 1872 to Alexis Rockman's 2004Manifest Destiny; and architectural conjecture, from Wolf Hilbertz's Autopia Ampere project from 1970 onwards to CRAB Studio's Soak City in 2009. The article draws out how these imaginaries intersect with theoretical understandings of science fiction and ecology, contending that an emphasis onmultipleimaginaries of climate change is critical to expanding the narrow range of possibilities that currently characterize the literature on cities and climate change. Imaginative texts, images and designs mutually inform each other to encourage holistic ways of approaching how we think about the prospect of urban submergence and to incubate radical responses to it.
Comparison of four methods of endotracheal tube passage in simulated airways: There is room for improved techniques
Authors: Kingma Kirsten , Hofmeyr Ross , Zeng Irene Suilan , Coomarasamy Christin , Brainard Andrew
Published: November 2017

Objective

Endotracheal intubation requires laryngoscopy followed by passage of the endotracheal tube (ETT). Tube passage can be difficult, but there is little evidence to support which adjunct for tube passage is most effective.

Methods

The four tube passage adjuncts tested were the naked ETT, stylet ETT, railroaded bougie and preloaded bougie. Participants completed pre‐ and post‐test surveys identifying demographics, experience and method preference. After instruction, participants completed eight intubations on manikins with ‘easy’ and ‘difficult’ airways.

Results

One hundred and seventeen practitioners who were experienced emergency medicine physicians, anaesthesiologists and out‐of‐hospital providers completed 936 total ETT attempts. For the ‘difficult’ airway, the percentage first pass success (95% confidence interval [CI]) for the naked ETT was 30.8% (23.1–39.7%). This was significantly lower than the stylet ETT (95.7% [86.6–100%]), the railroaded bougie (75.2% [63.8–86.6%]), or the preloaded bougie (89.7% [79.7–99.7%]). On difficult airways, the median (interquartile range [IQR]) time‐to‐intubation was fastest in the stylet ETT (25.0 s [20.9–32.2 s]) with the railroaded bougie being the slowest (43.2 s [36.5–56.2 s]). Seventy‐nine per cent of participants stated that they would change their practice based on participating in this study. Participants increased their preference for the preloaded bougie from 30.6% to 69.4%.

Conclusion

The data show that tube passage with a stylet ETT or a preloaded bougie is superior in terms of higher first pass success, faster time‐to‐intubation and higher post‐test preference. The naked ETT is clearly inferior to other methods. This research supports the recommendation to use a stylet ETT or bougie for every predicted difficult intubation.
Trauma case review: A quality and safety feature of the Victorian State Trauma System
Authors: Pinto Carolyn , Cameron Peter A , Gabbe Belinda , McLellan Susan , Walker Tony
Published: November 2017

The aim of the present study was to describe the trauma case review process and its role in a regionalised trauma system. Victoria has a population of 5.9 million people, accounting for 26% of Australia's population. Victoria has been serviced by an inclusive, organised trauma system since 2000 comprising 138 health services with trauma designations and three major trauma services. Pre‐ and interhospital guidelines prescribe the timely transport of patients to the appropriate level of trauma service. A review of the role and contribution of 10 years of operation of the trauma case review group (CRG) was undertaken to describe the aims, processes and governance surrounding the implementation of an individual case review for specified major trauma patients. Specified patients were those identified by the Victorian State Trauma Registry as being managed outside of established Victorian State Trauma System prehospital and interhospital guidelines. A state‐wide trauma case review process was implemented across the trauma system using data‐informed detection flags and screening criteria. Using data from the Victorian State Trauma Registry, detection flags were correlated with patients at risk of a poorer outcome, thereby ensuring that all patients managed outside of the requirements of established trauma triage and transfer guidelines were subject to review. The CRG provides an individual review process as a technique for assessing and monitoring major trauma patient care and compliance with trauma system triage and transfer guidelines. The process has been effective as a quality and safety strategy by improving clinician knowledge of major trauma triage and transfer guidelines and facilitating improved compliance, particularly with interhospital transfers. Strong compliance has been achieved from health services with the requirement to internally review and respond to CRG concerns regarding ‘high‐risk’ trauma cases. Anecdotal feedback from health services regarding participation in the CRG process has been positive. The trauma case review process is an embedded feature of the Victorian State Trauma System that aims to improve compliance with major trauma guidelines by reviewing major trauma cases that have been managed outside of established triage and transfer guidelines. All trauma‐designated Victorian health services, Ambulance Victoria and Victorian adult and paediatric patient retrieval services might receive trauma cases for review. The process is also an integral component of trauma system clinical governance, which enables the identification of system‐level issues for escalation to the State Trauma Committee and the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.
A comparison of honeybee (Apis mellifera) queen, worker and drone larvae by RNA‐Seq
Authors: He Xu‐Jiang , Jiang Wu‐Jun , Zhou Mi , Barron Andrew B. , Zeng Zhi‐Jiang
Published: November 2017

Honeybees (Apis mellifera) have haplodiploid sex determination: males develop from unfertilized eggs and females develop from fertilized ones. The differences in larval food also determine the development of females. Here we compared the total somatic gene expression profiles of 2‐day and 4‐day‐old drone, queen and worker larvae by RNA‐Seq. The results from a co‐expression network analysis on all expressed genes showed that 2‐day‐old drone and worker larvae were closer in gene expression profiles than 2‐day‐old queen larvae. This indicated that for young larvae (2‐day‐old) environmental factors such as larval diet have a greater effect on gene expression profiles than ploidy or sex determination. Drones had the most distinct gene expression profiles at the 4‐day larval stage, suggesting that haploidy, or sex dramatically affects the gene expression of honeybee larvae. Drone larvae showed fewer differences in gene expression profiles at the 2‐day and 4‐day time points than the worker and queen larval comparisons (598 against 1190 and 1181), suggesting a different pattern of gene expression regulation during the larval development of haploid males compared to diploid females. This study indicates that early in development the queen caste has the most distinct gene expression profile, perhaps reflecting the very rapid growth and morphological specialization of this caste compared to workers and drones. Later in development the haploid male drones have the most distinct gene expression profile, perhaps reflecting the influence of ploidy or sex determination on gene expression.
Effect of In Vitro Digestion on the Total Antioxidant Capacity and Phenolic Content of 3 Species of Oregano (Hedeoma patens, Lippia graveolens, Lippia palmeri)
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Grijalva Erick Paul , Angulo‐Escalante Miguel Angel , León‐Félix Josefina , Heredia J. Basilio
Published: November 2017

Oregano phenolic compounds have been studied for their anti‐inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, after ingestion, the gastrointestinal environment can affect their antioxidant stability and thus their bioactive properties. To evaluate the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion on the phenolic compounds of 3 species of oregano (Hedeoma patens, Lippia graveolens, and Lippia palmeri), the total reducing capacity, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated before and after in vitro GI digestion. In addition, the phenolic compounds of the 3 oregano species were identified and quantified by UPLC‐PDA before and after in vitro GI digestion. It was shown that the reducing capacity, flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity were affected by the GI digestion process. Moreover, the phenolic compounds identified were apigenin‐7‐glucoside, scutellarein, luteolin, luteolin‐7‐glucoside, phloridzin and chlorogenic acid, and their levels were affected by the in vitro GI process. Our results showed that the phenolic compounds from these 3 species of oregano are affected by the in vitro digestion process, and this effect is largely attributable to pH changes. These changes can modify the bioavailability and further anti‐inflammatory activity of oregano phenolics, and thus, further research is needed.

Practical Application

Oregano is a rich source of polyphenols that have shown bioactive properties like anti‐inflammatory potential. However, little is known of the gastrointestinal fate of oregano polyphenols which is imperative to fully understand its bioaccessibility. Our results are important to develop new administration strategies which could help protect the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential and bioaccessibility of such compounds.
Cyclophilin A promotes non‐small cell lung cancer metastasis via p38 MAPK
Authors: Guo Yinan , Jiang Mei , Zhao Xiaoting , Gu Meng , Wang Ziyu , Xu Shaofa , Yue Wentao
Published: November 2017

Background

Cyclophilin A (CypA) is associated with metastasis in diverse cancers; however, its role in lung cancer metastasis and the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Our study investigated the effect of CypA on non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) metastasis in vitro and in vivo to determine its mechanisms.

Methods

In this study, A549 and H1299 cell lines with downregulated and overexpressed CypA, respectively, were constructed by lentivirus transfection of NSCLC cells. in vitro experiments, including wound healing and transwell assays and Western blotting, showed that CypA promoted cancer cell migration and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in NSCLC. Lung metastasis mouse models were used for the first time to confirm that CypA promoted NSCLC metastasis in vivo. The p38 inhibitor SB203580 was used to show that p38 MAPK is involved in CypA‐mediated NSCLC metastasis.

Results

Wound healing and transwell assays showed that the migration of both A549 and H1299 cells decreased in the CypA downregulated group and increased in the CypA overexpressed group. CypA also positively promoted the expression of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐relevant proteins. Results of mouse models confirmed that the tumor metastasis rate was much higher in the CypA overexpressed than in the CypA downregulated group. In addition, SB203580 inhibited NSCLC cell migration significantly in the CypA overexpressed group, while the difference in the CypA downregulated group was not significant.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study demonstrated that CypA promotes NSCLC cancer metastasis via p38 MAPK.
Using terrestrial laser scanning data to estimate large tropical trees biomass and calibrate allometric models: A comparison with traditional destructive approach
Authors: Momo Takoudjou Stéphane , Ploton Pierre , Sonké Bonaventure , Hackenberg Jan , Griffon Sébastien , de Coligny Francois , Kamdem Narcisse Guy , Libalah Moses , Mofack Gislain II , Le Moguédec Gilles , Pélissier Raphaël , Barbier Nicolas
Published: November 2017

Calibration of local, regional or global allometric equations to estimate biomass at the tree level constitutes a significant burden on projects aiming at reducing Carbon emissions from forest degradation and deforestation. The objective of this contribution is to assess the precision and accuracy of Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) for estimating volumes and above‐ground biomass (AGB) of the woody parts of tropical trees, and for the calibration of allometric models.

We used a destructive dataset of 61 trees, with diameters and AGB of up to 186.6 cm and 60 Mg respectively, which were scanned, felled and weighed in the semi‐deciduous forests of eastern Cameroon. We present an operational approach based on available software allowing the retrieving of TLS volume with low bias and high accuracy for large tropical trees. Edition of the obtained models proved necessary, mainly to account for the complexity of buttressed parts of tree trunks, which were separately modelled through a meshing approach, and to bring a few corrections in the topology and geometry of branches, thanks to the amapstudio‐scan software.

Over the entire dataset, TLS‐derived volumes proved highly reliable for branches larger than 5 cm in diameter. The volumes of the remaining woody parts estimated for stumps, stems and crowns as well as for the whole tree proved very accurate (RMSE below 2.81% and R² above of .98) and unbiased. Once converted into AGB using mean local‐specific wood density values, TLS estimates allowed calibrating a biomass allometric model with coefficients statistically undistinguishable from those of a model based on destructive data. The Unedited Quantitative Structure Model (QSM) however leads to systematic overestimations of woody volumes and subsequently to significantly different allometric parameters.

We can therefore conclude that a non‐destructive TLS approach can now be used as an operational alternative to traditional destructive sampling to build the allometric equations, although attention must be paid to the quality of QSM model adjustments to avoid systematic bias.
Bruchid pest management in pulses: past practices, present status and use of modern breeding tools for development of resistant varieties
Authors: Mishra S.K. , Macedo M.L.R. , Panda S.K. , Panigrahi J.
Published: November 2017

Bruchids (Callosobruchus spp.) are recognised as the most detrimental storage pest of pulses, especially in the tropics and subtropics. They invade matured pods as well as seeds during storage and, to some extent, farming fields, in turn reducing the net yield of the crops. Several approaches including cultural, biological, physical and chemical control measures have been implemented with the aim of managing these pests, but none of these have been successful across time and space. Recently, transgenic‐ and marker‐assisted breeding approaches have appeared as promising tools for the successful management of these pests. Although some efforts have been made on the development of bruchid‐resistant transgenic crops, the cultivars developed are yet to be commercialised worldwide because of various limitations. In contrast, marker‐assisted breeding involving the identification of DNA‐based markers linked to host resistance against bruchids, have shown some success in the quest for the development of bruchid‐resistant cultivar(s). DNA markers linked to bruchid resistance have been identified in various grain legumes, particularly in the genus Vigna, and include mung bean (Vigna radiata), azuki bean (Vigna angularis), rice bean (Vigna umbellata), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and black gram (Vigna mungo). After their validation in different genetic backgrounds, these markers could be utilised for marker‐assisted selection and breeding ventures to protect pulse crops. The present study discusses the pros and cons of different approaches for the successful management of the bruchid pests in pulses. The review also highlights about the integrative approach aided with molecular interventions to improve productivity by avoiding losses incurred due to bruchids, and to attain sustainable yields for major pulse crops.
Neuroactive Steroid (3α,5α)3‐hydroxypregnan‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP) and Pro‐inflammatory Cytokine MCP‐1 Levels in Hippocampus CA1 are Correlated with Voluntary Ethanol Consumption in Cynomolgus Monkey
Authors: Beattie Matthew C. , Reguyal Christopher S. , Porcu Patrizia , Daunais James B. , Grant Kathleen A. , Morrow A. Leslie
Published: November 2017

Background

Neuroactive steroids such as (3α,5α)3‐hydroxypregnan‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP, allopregnanolone) are potent neuromodulators that enhance GABAergic neurotransmission and produce inhibitory neurobehavioral and anti‐inflammatory effects. Chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption reduces 3α,5α‐THP levels in human plasma, but has brain region‐ and species‐specific effects on central nervous system levels of 3α,5α‐THP. We explored the relationship between 3α,5α‐THP levels in the hippocampus and voluntary EtOH consumption in the cynomolgus monkey following daily self‐administration of EtOH for 12 months and further examined the relationship with hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis function prior to EtOH exposure. We simultaneously explored hippocampus levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1), a pro‐inflammatory cytokine that plays an important role in the neuroimmune response to EtOH, following chronic self‐administration.

Methods

Monkeys were subjected to scheduled induction of water and EtOH consumption (0 to 1.5 g/kg) over 4 months, followed by free access to EtOH or water for 22 h/d over 12 months. Immunohistochemistry was performed using an anti‐3α,5α‐THP or anti‐MCP‐1 antibody. Prolonged voluntary drinking resulted in individual differences in EtOH consumption that ranged from 1.2 to 4.2 g/kg/d over 12 months.

Results

Prolonged EtOH consumption increased cellular 3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity by 12 ± 2% (p < 0.05) and reduced MCP‐1 immunoreactivity by 23 ± 9% (p < 0.05) in the hippocampus CA1. In both cases, the effect of EtOH was most pronounced in heavy drinkers that consumed ≥3 g/kg for ≥20% of days. 3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity was positively correlated with average daily EtOH intake (Spearman r = 0.76, p < 0.05) and dexamethasone inhibition of HPA axis function (Spearman r = 0.9, p < 0.05). In contrast, MCP‐1 immunoreactivity was negatively correlated with average daily EtOH intake (Spearman r = −0.78, p < 0.05) and dexamethasone suppression of HPA axis function (Spearman r = −0.76, p < 0.05). Finally, 3α,5α‐THP and MCP‐1 immunoreactivity were inversely correlated with each other (Spearman r = −0.68, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

These data indicate that voluntary, long‐term EtOH consumption results in higher levels of 3α,5α‐THP, while decreasing levels of MCP‐1 in the CA1 hippocampus, and that both changes may be linked to HPA axis function and the magnitude of voluntary EtOH consumption.
Los Recuerdos de la Maestra Turned PhD Student
Authors: Snyder Rachel
Published: November 2017

This poem reflects on my work as an elementary level bilingual teacher. In the poem I highlight poignant moments shared with my Latinx students. I also explore my positionality and its significance in my work as a teacher. The poem uses a fluid mixture of English and Spanish to represent the daily linguistic culture of our shared classroom life.
The function and mechanism of vocal accommodation in humans and other primates
Authors: Ruch Hanna , Zürcher Yvonne , Burkart Judith M.
Published: November 2017

The study of non‐human animals, in particular primates, can provide essential insights into language evolution. A critical element of language is vocal production learning, i.e. learning how to produce calls. In contrast to other lineages such as songbirds, vocal production learning of completely new signals is strikingly rare in non‐human primates. An increasing body of research, however, suggests that various species of non‐human primates engage in vocal accommodation and adjust the structure of their calls in response to environmental noise or conspecific vocalizations. To date it is unclear what role vocal accommodation may have played in language evolution, in particular because it summarizes a variety of heterogeneous phenomena which are potentially achieved by different mechanisms. In contrast to non‐human primates, accommodation research in humans has a long tradition in psychology and linguistics. Based on theoretical models from these research traditions, we provide a new framework which allows comparing instances of accommodation across species, and studying them according to their underlying mechanism and ultimate biological function. We found that at the mechanistic level, many cases of accommodation can be explained with an automatic perception–production link, but some instances arguably require higher levels of vocal control. Functionally, both human and non‐human primates use social accommodation to signal social closeness or social distance to a partner or social group. Together, this indicates that not only some vocal control, but also the communicative function of vocal accommodation to signal social closeness and distance must have evolved prior to the emergence of language, rather than being the result of it. Vocal accommodation as found in other primates has thus endowed our ancestors with pre‐adaptations that may have paved the way for language evolution.
Towards understanding the mechanisms of actions of carcinoembryonic antigen‐related cell adhesion molecule 6 in cancer progression
Authors: Rizeq Balsam , Zakaria Zain , Ouhtit Allal
Published: November 2017

Human carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is the prototypic member of a family of highly related cell surface glycoproteins that includes carcinoembryonic antigen‐related cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6) and others.CEACAM6 (formerlyNCA), which belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily, is a cell adhesion protein of theCEAfamily. It is normally expressed on the epithelial surfaces and on the surface of myeloid cells (CD66c).CEACAM6 is a multi‐functional glycoprotein that mediates homotypic binding with otherCEAfamily members and heterotypic binding with integrin receptors. It functions by organizing tissue architecture and regulating different signal transduction, while aberrant expression leads to the development of human malignancies. It was first discovered in proliferating cells of adenomas and hyperplastic polyps in comparison to benign colonic tissue when overexpressed on the surface of various cell types in model systems.CEACAM6 functions as a pan‐inhibitor of cell differentiation and cell polarization, and it also causes distortion of tissue architecture. Moreover, overexpression ofCEACAM6 modulates cancer progression through aberrant cell differentiation, anti‐apoptosis, cell growth and resistance to therapeutic agents. In addition,CEACAM6 overexpression in multiple malignancies promotes cell invasion and metastasis, thereby representing an acquired advantage of tumor cells directly responsible for an invasive phenotype. This review focuses on the findings supporting the mechanisms of actions linking the oncogenic potential ofCEACAM6 to the onset of cancer progression and pathogenesis, especially in breast cancer, and to validatingCEACAM6as a target to pave the way towards the design of efficient therapeutic strategies against breast cancer.
Can Bilingualism Mitigate Set‐Shifting Difficulties in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders?
Authors: Gonzalez‐Barrero Ana Maria , Nadig Aparna S.
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the effects of bilingualism on set‐shifting and working memory in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Bilinguals with ASD were predicted to display a specific bilingual advantage in set‐shifting, but not working memory, relative to monolinguals with ASD. Forty 6‐ to 9‐year‐old children participated (20 ASD, 20 typically‐developing). Set‐shifting was measured using a computerized dimensional change card sort (DCCS) task, and by parent report of executive functioning in daily life. Results showed an advantage for bilingual relative to monolingual children with ASD on the DCCS task, but not for set‐shifting in daily life. Working memory was similar for bilinguals and monolinguals with ASD. These findings suggest that bilingualism may mitigate some set‐shifting difficulties in children with ASD.
Th2 axis‐related cytokines in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders
Authors: Zhang Ying , Yao Xiao‐Ying , Gao Mei‐Chun , Ding Jie , Hong Rong‐Hua , Huang Hua , Zhuang Lei , Wang Yong‐Gang , Hao Yong , Guan Yang‐Tai
Published: November 2017

Aims

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Increasing evidence indicates that NMOSD is a Th2‐ and Th17‐dominant disease. IL‐25, IL‐31, and IL‐33 are three newly found Th2‐related cytokines, and their roles in the pathogenesis of NMOSD have not been studied. This study aimed to measure the serum levels of IL‐25, IL‐31, and IL‐33 in patients with NMOSD and evaluate their clinical implications.

Methods

Serum was collected from patients with NMOSD (n = 48) and healthy controls (HC, n = 28). Serum level measurements of IL‐25, IL‐31, IL‐33, IL‐17A, and IL‐6 were performed using enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) method.

Results

The serum levels of IL‐25, IL‐31, and IL‐33 were significantly higher in patients with NMOSD as compared to HC. The serum level of IL‐31 was significantly correlated with IL‐17A (r = 0.382,P = 0.009) in patients with NMOSD; the latter is a critical cytokine in the pathogenesis of NMOSD. The serum level of IL‐33 was higher in patients with characteristic brain lesions than patients without (307 pg/mL vs 166 pg/mL, P = 0.028). Furthermore, the serum level of IL‐33 in the acute phase of the disease was positively correlated with annualized relapse rate (r = 0.364, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

We found higher serum levels of IL‐25, IL‐31, and IL‐33 in patient with NMOSD as compared to healthy controls. The serum level of IL‐33 during acute phase was associated with more past attacks in patients with NMOSD.
Incidence of new‐onset benign anal disorders after bariatric surgery
Authors: Cano‐Valderrama O. , Sánchez‐Pernaute A. , Rubio M. A. , Talavera P. , Martín‐Antona E. , Torres A. J.
Published: November 2017

New‐onset benign anal disorders (NBADs) represent a potential complication following bariatric surgery, although their incidence in this population is not well studied. The preoperative characteristics, weight loss, bowel habits and NBADs data of 196 patients with bariatric surgery were collected by telephone interviews and medical records review and evaluated retrospectively. Ninety‐nine patients had undergone gastric bypass (GBP) and 97 had a modified biliopancreatic diversion (MBPD). Fifty‐nine patients were excluded. The mean follow‐up of the remaining 137 patients was 87.8 months, and 51 of them (37.2%) developed NBADs. Haemorrhoids were the most common diagnosis and 27.5% of the patients that developed NBADs were treated surgically. Patients who developed NBADs had a longer follow‐up time (92.5 vs. 85.1 months, P = 0.003), and those with an abnormal bowel habit (diarrhoea or constipation) had a higher percentage of NBADs (54.5 vs. 28.3%, P = 0.003). NBADs were more frequent after MBPD (52.9%) than after GBP (21.7%) (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis found that only an abnormal bowel habit was associated with NBADs, with an odds ratio of 3.2 (95% CI: 1.5–6.9, P = 0.003). As NBADs are a common complication after bariatric surgery, further studies should be performed to find the reasons for these complications.
How to deal with neglected tropical diseases in the light of an African ethic
Authors: Metz Thaddeus
Published: November 2017

Many countries in Africa, and more generally those in the Global South with tropical areas, are plagued by illnesses that the wealthier parts of the world (mainly ‘the West’) neither suffer from nor put systematic effort into preventing, treating or curing. What does an ethic with a recognizably African pedigree entail for the ways various agents ought to respond to such neglected diseases? As many readers will know, a characteristically African ethic prescribes weighty duties to aid on the part of those in a position to do so, and it therefore entails that there should have been much more contribution from the Western, ‘developed’ world. However, what else does it prescribe, say, on the part of sub‐Saharan governments and the African Union, and are they in fact doing it? I particularly seek to answer these questions here, by using the 2013‐16 Ebola crisis in West Africa to illustrate what should have happened but what by and large did not.
Don't Look Down: The Consequences of Job Loss in a Flexible Labour Market
Authors: Upward Richard , Wright Peter W.
Published: November 2017

We estimate the earnings, hours and income effects of job loss for a representative sample of UK workers from 1991 to 2007. We follow workers before and after job loss, regardless of their labour market state, and we match displaced workers with similar non‐displaced workers. This provides a more comprehensive picture of the effect of job loss in the UK than previously available. Job loss causes a long‐run reduction in income that is due mainly to reductions in monthly pay rather than in employment propensity. Income from other labour market states and from welfare payments does little to compensate for income losses. This lack of a ‘safety net’ means that job loss in the UK has a similar impact to job loss in the USA.
Magnetoencephalographic imaging of ictal high‐frequency oscillations (80‐200 Hz) in pharmacologically resistant focal epilepsy
Authors: Velmurugan Jayabal , Nagarajan Srikantan S. , Mariyappa Narayanan , Ravi Shankar G. , Thennarasu Kandavel , Mundlamuri Ravindranadh C. , Raghavendra Kenchaiah , Bharath Rose Dawn , Saini Jitender , Arivazhagan Arimappamagan , Rajan Jamuna , Mahadevan Anita , Rao Malla B. , Satishchandra Parthasarathy , Sinha Sanjib
Published: November 2017

Objective

Specificity of ictal high‐frequency oscillations (HFOs) in identifying epileptogenic abnormality is significant, compared to the spikes and interictal HFOs. The objectives of the study were to detect and to localize ictal HFOs by magnetoencephalography (MEG) for identifying the seizure onset zone (SOZ), evaluate the cortical excitability from preictal to ictal transition, and establish HFO concordance rates with other modalities and postsurgical resection.

Methods

Sixty‐seven patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy had at least 1 spontaneous seizure each during MEG acquisition, and analysis was carried out on 20 seizures from 20 patients. Ictal MEG data were bandpass filtered (80‐200 Hz) to visualize, review, and analyze the HFOs co‐occurring with ictal spikes. Source montages were generated on both hemispheres, mean fast Fourier transform was computed on virtual time series for determining the preictal to ictal spectral power transition, and source reconstruction was performed with sLORETA and beamformers. The concordance rates of ictal MEG HFOs (SOZ) was estimated with 4 reference epileptogenic regions.

Results

In each subject, transient bursts of high‐frequency oscillatory cycles, distinct from the background activity, were observed in the periictal continuum. Time‐frequency analysis showed significant spectral power surge (85‐160 Hz) during ictal state (P < .05) compared to preictal state, but there was no variation in the peak HFO frequencies (P > .05) for each subgroup and at each source montage. HFO source localization was consistent between algorithms (k = 0.857 ± 0.138), with presumed epileptogenic zone (EZ) comparable to other modalities. In patients who underwent surgery (n = 6), MEG HFO SOZ was concordant with the presumed EZ and the surgical resection site (100%), and all were seizure‐free during follow‐up.

Significance

HFOs could be detected in the MEG periictal state, and its sources were accurately localized. During preictal to ictal transition, HFOs exhibited dynamic augmentation in intrinsic epileptogenicity. Spatial overlap of ictal HFO sources was consistent with EZ determinants and the surgical resection area.
Genomic analyses identify multiple Asian origins and deeply diverged mitochondrial clades in inbred brown rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Puckett Emily E. , Micci‐Smith Olivia , Munshi‐South Jason
Published: November 2017

Over 500 strains of inbred brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) have been developed for use as a biomedical model organism. Most of these inbred lines were derived from the colony established at the Wistar Institute in 1906 or its descendants following worldwide distribution to research and breeding centers. The geographic source of the animals that founded the Wistar colony has been lost to history; thus, we compared 25 inbred rat strains to 326 wild rats from a global diversity dataset at 32 k SNPs, and 47 mitochondrial genomes to identify the source populations. We analyzed nuclear genomic data using principal component analyses and co‐ancestry heat maps, and mitogenomes using phylogenetic trees and networks. In the nuclear genome, inbred rats clustered together indicating a single geographic origin for the strains studied and showed admixed ancestral variation with wild rats in eastern Asia and western North America. The Sprague Dawley derived, Wistar derived, and Brown Norway strains each had mitogenomes from different clades which diverged between 13 and 139 kya. Thus, we posit that rats originally collected for captive breeding had high mitochondrial diversity that became fixed through genetic drift and/or artificial selection. Our results show that these important medical models share common genomic ancestry from a few source populations, and opportunities exist to create new strains with diverse genomic backgrounds to provide novel insight into the genomic basis of disease phenotypes.
Combining the high‐dose/refuge strategy and self‐limiting transgenic insects in resistance management—A test in experimental mesocosms
Authors: Zhou Liqin , Alphey Nina , Walker Adam S. , Travers Laura M. , Hasan Fevziye , Morrison Neil I. , Bonsall Michael B. , Raymond Ben
Published: November 2017

The high‐dose/refuge strategy has been the primary approach for resistance management in transgenic crops engineered with Bacillus thuringiensis toxins. However, there are continuing pressures from growers to reduce the size of Bt toxin‐free refugia, which typically suffer higher damage from pests. One complementary approach is to release male transgenic insects with a female‐specific self‐limiting gene. This technology can reduce population sizes and slow the evolution of resistance by introgressing susceptible genes through males. Theory predicts that it could be used to facilitate smaller refugia or reverse the evolution of resistance. In this study, we used experimental evolution with caged insect populations to investigate the compatibility of the self‐limiting system and the high‐dose/refuge strategy in mitigating the evolution of resistance in diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella. The benefits of the self‐limiting system were clearer at smaller refuge size, particularly when refugia were inadequate to prevent the evolution of resistance. We found that transgenic males in caged mesocosms could suppress population size and delay resistance development with 10% refugia and 4%–15% initial resistance allele frequency. Fitness costs in hemizygous transgenic insects are particularly important for introgressing susceptible alleles into target populations. Fitness costs of the self‐limiting gene in this study (P. xylostella OX4139 line L) were incompletely dominant, and reduced fecundity and male mating competitiveness. The experimental evolution approach used here illustrates some of the benefits and pitfalls of combining mass release of self‐limiting insects and the high‐dose/refuge strategy, but does indicate that they can be complementary.
Clinical application of hysteroscopic hydrotubation for unexplained infertility in the mare
Authors: Inoue Y. , Sekiguchi M.
Published: November 2017

Background

Therapeutic techniques for oviductal obstruction in the mare are limited. Nonsurgical and retrograde flushing may be an attractive alternative to current treatment methods for oviductal blockage.

Objectives

To evaluate hysteroscopic selective hydrotubation as a treatment option for presumptive equine oviductal blockage.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

A quantity of 10 mL of saline was flushed through the oviducts in 28 standing sedated mares, which had reproductive histories of unexplained subfertility, by inserting a catheter into the uterotubal junction under endoscopic guidance. All mares in the study had been mated through several cycles (2–20 oestrous cycles) by known fertile stallions prior to treatment, with no evidence of conception. The average number of cycles for each mare prior to treatment was 6.5 ± 4.5.

Results

Saline was successfully infused into a total of 50 oviducts. Of 28 mares, 26 conceived after the treatment. The average number of cycles for each mare to become pregnant after treatment was 1.8 ± 0.8.

Main limitations

Diagnosis of blocked oviducts was presumptive, and pretreatment infertility was used as the control.

Conclusions

This study revealed that hysteroscopic hydrotubation using saline improved pregnancy rates in mares in which oviductal blockage was suspected as a cause of unexplained subfertility.
Outcomes from 10 years of biodiversity offsetting
Authors: Gibbons Philip , Macintosh Andrew , Constable Amy Louise , Hayashi Kiichiro
Published: November 2017

We quantified net changes to the area and quality of native vegetation after the introduction of biodiversity offsetting in New South Wales, Australia—a policy intended to “prevent broad‐scale clearing of native vegetation unless it improves or maintains environmental values.” Over 10 years, a total of 21,928 ha of native vegetation was approved for clearing under this policy and 83,459 ha was established as biodiversity offsets. We estimated that no net loss in the area of native vegetation under this policy will not occur for 146 years. This is because 82% of the total area offset was obtained by averting losses to existing native vegetation and the rate that these averted losses accrue was over‐estimated in the policy. There were predicted net gains in 10 of the 14 attributes used to assess the quality of habitat. An overall net gain in the quality of habitat was assessed under this policy by substituting habitat attributes that are difficult to restore (e.g. mature trees) with habitat attributes for which restoration is relatively easy (e.g. tree seedlings). Long‐term rates of annual deforestation did not significantly change across the study area after biodiversity offsetting was introduced. Overall, the policy examined here provides no net loss of biodiversity: (i) many generations into the future, which is not consistent with intergenerational equity; and (ii) by substituting different habitat attributes, so gains are not equivalent to losses. We recommend a number of changes to biodiversity offsetting policy to overcome these issues.
Vitamin D and progression of carotid intima‐media thickness in HIV‐positive Canadians
Authors: Huff H , Merchant AT , Lonn E , Pullenayegum E , Smaill F , Smieja M
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Based on a growing body of evidence implicating low vitamin D status in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), we hypothesized that in Canadian HIV‐positive adults, low 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration would be associated with increased subclinical vascular disease progression.

Methods

We prospectively studied the relationship between baseline 25(OH)D and subsequent progression of carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) between 2002 and 2011, in the Canadian HIV Vascular Study using stored blood specimens.

Results

Of the 128 participants, 89.1% were men, the mean age (standard deviation [SD]) was 46.5 (8.2) years, 93.8% were white, and 36.7% were current smokers. Mean (SD) annual CIMT follow‐up was 5.9 (1.8) years (maximum 8.5 years), providing approximately 750 patient‐years of follow‐up. Mean (SD) CIMT progression was 0.027 (0.030) mm/year. Mean (SD) 25(OH)D was 95.0 (46.9) nmol/L. Only 13.3% of participants were vitamin D deficient (25(OH)D < 50 nmol/L), whereas 61.7% had a 25(OH)D exceeding the sufficiency threshold (75 nmol/L). Vitamin D quartiles were inversely associated with body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.034), total cholesterol to high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ratio (P = 0.001) and parathyroid hormone concentration (P = 0.003), but not efavirenz exposure (P = 0.141). In linear regression analyses, baseline 25(OH)D as a continuous variable was inversely associated with CIMT progression in univariable (P < 0.001) and multivariable (P < 0.001) models.

Conclusions

Baseline 25(OH)D was associated with CIMT progression in this relatively vitamin D replete, predominately white and male, Canadian HIV‐positive population. Future research needs to establish causality as this may warrant more targeted screening or supplementation.