bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human eyes do not need monochromatic aberrations for dynamic accommodation
Authors: Bernal‐Molina Paula , Marín‐Franch Iván , Del Águila‐Carrasco Antonio J. , Esteve‐Taboada Jose J. , López‐Gil Norberto , Kruger Philip B. , Montés‐Micó Robert
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To determine if human accommodation uses the eye's own monochromatic aberrations to track dynamic accommodative stimuli.

Methods

Wavefront aberrations were measured while subjects monocularly viewed a monochromatic Maltese cross moving sinusoidally around 2D of accommodative demand with 1D amplitude at 0.2 Hz. The amplitude and phase (delay) of the accommodation response were compared to the actual vergence of the stimulus to obtain gain and temporal phase, calculated from wavefront aberrations recorded over time during experimental trials. The tested conditions were as follows: Correction of all the subject's aberrations except defocus (C); Correction of all the subject's aberrations except defocus and habitual second‐order astigmatism (AS); Correction of all the subject's aberrations except defocus and odd higher‐order aberrations (HOAs); Correction of all the subject's aberrations except defocus and even HOAs (E); Natural aberrations of the subject's eye, i.e., the adaptive‐optics system only corrected the optical system's aberrations (N); Correction of all the subject's aberrations except defocus and fourth‐order spherical aberration (SA). The correction was performed at 20 Hz and each condition was repeated six times in randomised order.

Results

Average gain (±2 standard errors of the mean) varied little across conditions; between 0.55 ± 0.06 (SA), and 0.62 ± 0.06 (AS). Average phase (±2 standard errors of the mean) also varied little; between 0.41 ± 0.02 s (E), and 0.47 ± 0.02 s (O). After Bonferroni correction, no statistically significant differences in gain or phase were found in the presence of specific monochromatic aberrations or in their absence.

Conclusions

These results show that the eye's monochromatic aberrations are not necessary for accommodation to track dynamic accommodative stimuli.
Soybean plant height QTL mapping and meta‐analysis for mining candidate genes
Authors: Yin Zhengong , Qi Huidong , Chen Qingshan , Zhang Zhanguo , Jiang Hongwei , Zhu Rongsheng , Hu Zhenbang , Wu Xiaoxia , Li Candong , Zhang Yong , Liu Chunyan , Hu Guohua , Xin Dawei , Qi Zhaoming
Published: July 2017

Plant height is closely related to seed yield of soybean. The goal of this study was to identify important loci affecting soybean plant height using meta‐analysis based on a reference physical map. Plant height related to QTLs was mapped across eight years with a RIL population by WinQTLCart v2.5. 182 QTLs related to plant height of soybean from database and our research were collected, and each QTL was projected onto the soybean physical map by software BioMercator v2.1. The confidence interval of meta‐QTL ranged from 0.09 to 5.07 Mb, and the mean phenotypic variance ranged from 4.9% to 73.0%. Furthermore, 4,259 candidate genes were located in these consensus QTLs, and 40 of them were involved in the plant growth and stem elongation and annotated as plant hormone signal transduction (pathway ID ko04075) in KEGG pathway. These results would lay a foundation for fine mapping of QTLs/genes related to plant height and marker‐assisted selection for breeding in soybean.
Incorporating geographic distance into mate preference research: Necessities and luxuries, 2.0
Authors: JONASON PETER K. , NOLLAND MONIQUE , TYLER MICHAEL D.
Published: July 2017

This study (N = 370) examined mate preferences in men and women using the budget allocation paradigm across traits typically studied and the value placed on geographic proximity or propinquity. Importantly, traditionally studied preferences (i.e., physical attractiveness and social status) were seen as priorities, whereas the novel trait of distance was a luxury, suggesting that people were willing to travel to find a partner who satisfies their more important mate preferences. Men valued a short‐term mate who was close to them more than women did. Prior work on mate preferences was replicated in their context‐specific nature as per evolutionary models of mate choice.
Pneumonia in the developing world: Characteristic features and approach to management
Authors: Aston Stephen J.
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in adults worldwide, but its epidemiology varies markedly by region. Whilst in high‐income countries, the predominant burden of CAP is in the elderly and those with chronic cardiovascular and pulmonary co‐morbidity, CAP patients in low‐income settings are often of working age and, in sub‐Saharan Africa, frequently HIV‐positive. Although region‐specific aetiological data are limited, they are sufficient to highlight major trends: in high‐burden settings, tuberculosis (TB) is a common cause of acute CAP; Gram‐negative pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae are regionally important; and HIV‐associated opportunistic infections are common but difficult to diagnose. These differences in epidemiology and aetiological profile suggest that modified approaches to diagnosis, severity assessment and empirical antimicrobial therapy of CAP are necessary, but tailored individualized management approaches are constrained by limitations in the availability of radiological and laboratory diagnostic services, as well as medical expertise. The widespread introduction of the Xpert MTB/RIF platform represents a major advance for TB diagnosis, but innovations in rapid diagnostics for other opportunistic pathogens are urgently needed. Severity assessment tools (e.g. CURB65) that are used to guide early management decisions in CAP have not been widely validated in low‐income settings and locally adapted tools are required. The optimal approach to initial antimicrobial therapy choices such as the need to provide early empirical cover for atypical bacteria and TB remain poorly defined. Improvements in supportive care such as correcting hypoxaemia and intravenous fluid management represent opportunities for substantial reductions in mortality.
The respiratory threat posed by multidrug resistant Gram‐negative bacteria
Authors: Rodrigo‐Troyano Ana , Sibila Oriol
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Respiratory infections are a major cause of global mortality and morbidity. In recent years, an increased incidence of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) Gram‐negative bacteria (GNB) has been described. Microorganisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae or Acinetobacter baumannii have been identified as causative pathogens of different respiratory tract infections. Several studies have detected MDR‐GNB in patients with community‐acquired and nosocomial pneumonia. Furthermore, MDR‐GNB have also been isolated in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis having acute or chronic bronchial infection. Prevalence varies depending on the geographical area but MDR‐GNB has been reported in the Asia‐Pacific region, Europe and the United States, reaching rates of 70% in hospital‐acquired infection. The presence of MDR‐GNB has been related to poor clinical outcomes, including increased mortality, although data regarding this relationship are limited. This is probably linked to inappropriate selection of empiric antibiotic treatment; this poses a threat of widespread resistance. GNB antibiotic resistance and the absence of new antibiotics are a major concern given limited treatment options; an aspect that deserves future research. We review current literature, highlight prevalence of MDR‐GNB in different respiratory infections and explore their impact on clinical outcomes.
Spirometry reference values for population aged 7–80 years in China
Authors: Zhang Jingzhou , Hu Xiao , Shan Guangliang
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Lung function tests are widely used in clinical and public health practice; however, no valid spirometry reference values were available for the general population in China. This study aimed to provide valid spirometry predictive equations for the general population in China, and to evaluate the predictive performance of previously used equations.

Methods

Data from the China National Health Survey 2012–2015 and the ‘Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale and Shape’ statistical modelling method were used to establish spirometry predictive equations for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1
), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC. Paired t‐tests were used to examine differences between spirometry measurements in this sample and predicted values of four previous spirometry predictive equations.

Results

This study included 3130 lifetime non‐smokers (713 males and 2417 females) aged 7–80 years in China. Spirometry predictive equations with age and height as predictive variables plus age‐specific splines were established separately by gender. Most previous spirometry predictive equations were found to significantly overestimate (maximum of 3.69% in FEV1, 1.87% in FVC and 4.19% in FEV1/FVC for males; 11.46% in FEV1, 7.28% in FVC and 3.78% in FEV1/FVC for females) or underestimate (maximum of 5.75% in FEV1 and 8.12% in FVC for males; 7.89% in FEV1 and 9.32% in FVC for females) lung function measurements when applied to this sample population.

Conclusion

This study addressed the urgent need for valid and up‐to‐date spirometry reference values for the general population in China. Moreover, previous spirometry predictive equations showed unfavourable generalizability to this sample population.
Spirometry training courses: Content, delivery and assessment ‐ a position statement from the Australian and New Zealand Society of Respiratory Science
Authors: Swanney Maureen P. , O'Dea Christopher A. , Ingram Emily R. , Rodwell Leanne T. , Borg Brigitte M. ,   for the ANZSRS Spirometry Training Course Working Group
Published: July 2017

Spirometry training courses are provided by health services and training organizations to enable widespread use of spirometry testing for patient care or for monitoring health. The primary outcome of spirometry training courses should be to enable participants to perform spirometry to international best practice, including testing of subjects, quality assurance and interpretation of results. Where valid results are not achieved or quality assurance programmes identify errors in devices, participants need to be able to adequately manage these issues in accordance with best practice. It is important that potential participants are confident in the integrity of the course they attend and that the course meets their expectations in terms of training. This position statement lists the content that the Australian and New Zealand Society of Respiratory Science (ANZSRS) has identified as required in a spirometry training course to adequately meet the primary outcomes mentioned above. The content requirements outlined in this position statement are based on the current international spirometry standards set out by the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society. Furthermore, recommendations around course delivery for theoretical and practical elements of spirometry testing and post‐course assessment are outlined in this statement.
Child endowments and parental investments: Intra‐household allocation in oportunidades families in Mexico
Authors: Majid Hadia
Published: July 2017

This paper estimates a family fixed‐effects model to test whether parental educational investments are reinforcing or compensating differences in child height and body mass index (BMI) within Oportunidades households. The results indicate that allocations are not made in response to endowment differences in isolation, but depend on the interaction of child endowment, gender, and beneficiary status. Moreover, investments are made so as to counterbalance efficiency and equity considerations: widening differences in height but closing gaps in BMI, where both strategies maximize returns given the earnings–endowment function for height and BMI in Mexico. Finally, household socio‐economic status matters. Thus, discriminatory responses within the better‐off urban beneficiary households are smaller. In contrast, indigenous beneficiary households, which have the lowest average endowment z‐scores and fraction spent on education, see the largest differences in educational outlay between child subgroups. While the economic effects seem small, these are measured relative to the mean of the base category. In some cases, then, parents are dedicating nearly a quarter of all expenditures to education for a standard deviation increase in endowment over mean sibling endowment. Hence, it seems that the success of the Oportunidades program in improving overall human capital formation may be masking rising inequalities within recipient households.
Food Self‐provisioning in Europe: An Exploration of Sociodemographic Factors in Five Regions
Authors: Vávra Jan , Megyesi Boldizsár , Duží Barbora , Craig Tony , Klufová Renata , Lapka Miloslav , Cudlínová Eva
Published: July 2017

This article presents the results of an international comparative study on food self‐provisioning, an activity still widespread in the countries of the Global North. We collected the data in a sociological survey done in 2010 as a part of the household energy use research project GILDED. We selected a region with urban and rural areas as a case study in each of the five EU countries, including Scotland, the Netherlands, Germany, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. Our article raises two main research questions: (1) What is the level of food self‐provisioning in the regions? (2) Who participates in it? Additionally, we inquired into the motivations of self‐provisioners using the results of analyses of sociodemographic and food consumption habits for their interpretation. We found that the level of self‐provisioning varies considerably among the regions. Its share ranges from 13 percent in Dutch urban areas to 58 percent in German rural areas. The effects of some sociodemographic and geographic factors differ significantly among the countries. However, we can summarize that living in one's own property, living in a house or in a rural area, having a partner or children, being retired, or having a low income increases the probability of food self‐provisioning.
Depositional setting of the 2·1 Ga Francevillian macrobiota (Gabon): Rapid mud settling in a shallow basin swept by high‐density sand flows
Authors: Reynaud Jean‐Yves , Trentesaux Alain , El Albani Abderrazak , Aubineau Jérémie , Ngombi‐Pemba Lauriss , Guiyeligou Grace , Bouton Pascal , Gauthier‐Lafaye François , Weber Francis
Published: July 2017

The depositional setting of the 2·1 Ga fill of the Franceville Basin of Gabon is important for understanding the habitat (energy and availability of light and oxygen) and taphonomy of recently discovered early macro‐organisms buried in black shales in Unit FB. The available data bearing on the stratigraphy and sedimentology of Unit FB provide new insight into processes acting on the palaeo‐sea floor. The shales are interpreted to have formed as fluid mud deposits interstratified with structureless sands. The latter (Poubara sandstones) were emplaced during a forced regression during the terminal infill of fault‐bounded sub‐basins following a stage characterized by a ferruginous to anoxic water column. The structureless sandstones were deposited from high‐density gravity currents along with a locally strong bottom oscillation of the water column. Tuft structures preserved in cyanobacterial mats, together with the position of the macro‐organisms at the top of the sandstone beds within associated black shales, point to a water depth of less than 80 m. The relative sea‐level fall that drove deposition of the Poubara sandstones controlled the rise of a phototrophic ecosystem and also possibly favoured the supply of oxygen and nutrients via density flows.
Pre‐sale information and hammer prices for Australian Indigenous art
Authors: Farrell Lisa , Fry Tim R.L.
Published: July 2017

Using sales data from 1987–2011 we investigate the role that pre‐sale price information plays in determining hammer prices for Australian Indigenous artworks. Importantly, we control for the degree of market concentration as this might influence buyers’ perceptions of fairness in relation to price estimates which are provided by auction houses. Auction houses therefore act as important intermediaries between art sellers and art buyers. The results suggest that pre‐sale estimates and market concentration have a differential impact on hammer prices, depending on the point in the conditional realised price distribution under examination.
Prior Commitment and Uncertainty in Complex Economic Systems: Reinstating History in the Core of Economic Analysis
Authors: Foster John
Published: July 2017

Conventional ‘neoclassical’ economics is very useful in understanding how prices are determined but less so as a general basis for understanding the economic behaviour we observe. What is not taken into account is that economic systems are dissipative structures that are complex, but incompletely connected, networks of rules. It is explained why a degree of prior commitment in decision‐making is inevitable in complex economic systems and the implications of this are examined. It is argued that economic analysis must begin with the reality that choices are made in relation to pre‐existing commitments, both with regard to economic structures built in the past and to prevailing systems of belief, when deciding what to do in a future characterised by uncertainty. It is explained how conventional economic incentives can be dealt with in such a complex historical context building upon the neoclassical perspective of Alfred Marshall over a century ago. It is argued that econometric modelling remains viable and useful in understanding behaviour in complex economic systems. It is shown how we can design and interpret time series econometric modelling from a complex systems perspective.
The beliefs and willingness of men who have sex with men to comply with a one‐year blood donation deferral policy: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Liszewski Walter , Terndrup Christopher , Jackson Nicole R. , Helland Sarah , Lavin Bridget C.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

In 2016, the US Food and Drug Administration ended the lifetime blood donation deferral for men who have sex with men (MSM) and replaced it with a 1‐year deferral period. It is currently unknown how many MSM may meet the new deferral policy and how many are willing to comply with it.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

An anonymous survey was shared on MSM‐focused social media sites between May and July 2016 and enrolled self‐identified American MSM who were at least 18 years old. The survey assessed the willingness of MSM to donate blood, donation history, and knowledge regarding current blood donation needs and testing limitations.

RESULTS

A total of 764 men met criteria to be included in the final data set. Only 8.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.9%‐10.9%) met the current 12‐month deferral criteria, yet 90.6% (95% CI, 88.5%‐92.7%) were interested in donating. Among men interested in donating blood, 57.9% (95% CI, 54.3%‐61.4%) would consider donating blood without meeting the 12‐month deferral criteria. Overall, 26.7% (95% CI, 23.6%‐29.8%) admitted to donating blood at least once in the past despite not meeting deferral criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Few MSM met the current deferral criteria, yet many were interested in donating, even without meeting deferral criteria. Possible motivations to donate without meeting deferral criteria may include a perceived shortage of donated blood and infallibility of current blood testing technology to detect human immunodeficiency virus. If the current 1‐year deferral is maintained, it is essential that there is outreach to the MSM community to explain and educate why this policy exists.
Impact of lenalidomide‐based induction therapy on the mobilization of CD34+ cells, blood graft cellular composition, and post‐transplant recovery in myeloma patients: a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Partanen Anu , Valtola Jaakko , Silvennoinen Raija , Ropponen Antti , Siitonen Timo , Putkonen Mervi , Sankelo Marja , Pelkonen Jukka , Mäntymaa Pentti , Varmavuo Ville , Jantunen Esa
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory drug that is also currently used in transplant‐eligible patients with multiple myeloma. Previous studies have suggested a negative impact of lenalidomide on the mobilization of CD34+ cells. No data are available regarding the more detailed composition of blood grafts after lenalidomide.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In a multicenter, prospective study, we analyzed the mobilization of CD34+ cells, graft cellular composition, and post‐transplant hematologic recovery in 26 patients with multiple myeloma after lenalidomide‐based induction and in 34 lenalidomide‐naive controls with multiple myeloma. All patients were mobilized with low‐dose cyclophosphamide plus granulocyte‐colony–stimulating factor. The cellular composition of the grafts was analyzed from thawed, cryopreserved samples with flow cytometry. Graft function was evaluated by engraftment data and by complete blood counts until 12 months after the graft infusion.

RESULTS

Patients in the lenalidomide arm had lower median peak CD34+ counts and approximately 40% lower CD34+ cell yields from the first apheresis session, but these differences were not significant. The median total number of CD34+ cells collected was comparable (6.4 vs. 7.5 × 106/kg). The number of apheresis sessions was higher in the lenalidomide group (2 vs. 1; p = 0.039). The blood graft composition was comparable between the groups. Hematologic recovery within 12 months post‐transplant did not differ between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Lenalidomide‐based induction seems to have an impact on the number of aphereses performed, but not on the total yields of the CD34+ cells in the graft. Neither cellular composition of the grafts nor post‐transplant recovery was affected by the limited pre‐transplant exposure to lenalidomide.
Determinants of workers’ remittances: An empirical investigation for a panel of eleven developing Asian economies
Authors: Mallick Hrushikesh
Published: July 2017

We explore the key motives of migrant workers’ remittances from abroad for 11 major Asian migrant‐sending countries. Using panel regressions, we find that relative higher growth rate, interest rate and capital market returns of home over the host, investment, financial deepening at home have significant impact on remittance inflows into Asia, along with higher per capita incomes and international crude oil prices. With incorporation of per capita incomes and lagged impact of remittances, we observe an emergence of consumption motives to remit. Therefore, we conclude that both investment and altruistic motives are the driving forces for remittances inflows into the Asian economies.
Migration and institutions: Evidence from internal EU mobility
Authors: Migali Silvia
Published: July 2017

Despite the formal achievement of the free movement of labour within the EU, the institutional characteristics of the labour markets of the Member States may influence European mobility. The paper seeks empirical evidence of the relationship between labour market institutions and intra‐EU migrations, estimating a gravity model for bilateral migration for the period 2001–11. The results indicate that trade union density negatively correlates with the size of bilateral migrations: destinations with relatively high union density are associated with lower migration inflows. Since these countries tend to have a relatively flat earnings distribution, it is also investigated whether their earnings structure reduces their attractiveness as destinations hindering the access to their labour market. Even if a dependence between the earnings dispersion and migrations is found, trade union density remains the main driver of migration patterns. Clear effects of employment protection on EU mobility are not found.
Water contact angle is not a good predictor of biological responses to materials
Authors: Alexander Morgan R. , Williams Paul
Published: July 2017

Often the view is expressed that water contact angle (WCA) or other wettability/surface energy measurements made on a material surface can be used to predict cellular attachment to materials, e.g., bacteria attach to hydrophobic surfaces. In this article, the authors present a perspective emerging from their work that has failed to find relationships between WCA and microbial and stem cell attachment within large diversity material libraries and compare with the literature concluding that such simple rules are (unfortunately) wholly inadequate to explain cell–material interactions.
Interfacial reactions at Fe/topological insulator spin contacts
Authors: Majumder Sarmita , Jarvis Karalee , Banerjee Sanjay K. , Kavanagh Karen L.
Published: July 2017

The authors study the composition and abruptness of the interfacial layers that form during deposition and patterning of a ferromagnet, Fe on a topological insulator (TI), Bi2Se3, Bi2Te3, and SiOx/Bi2Te3. Such structures are potentially useful for spintronics. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy, including interfacial elemental mapping, confirms that Fe reacts with Bi2Se3 near room temperature, forming an abrupt 5 nm thick FeSe0.92 single crystalline binary phase, predominantly (001) oriented, with lattice fringe spacing of 0.55 nm. In contrast, Fe/Bi2Te3 forms a polycrystalline Fe/TI interfacial alloy that can be prevented by the addition of an evaporated SiOx separating Fe from the TI.
Call divergence in three sympatric Rattus species
Authors: Chen Yi , Su Qian-Qian , Qin Jiao , Liu Quan-Sheng
Published: July 2017

To reduce errors in species recognition and the probability of interbreeding that lowers fitness, individuals within sympatric zones shift the signals to differentiate from those of other species. In the present study, the differences of the acoustic features of ultrasounds (courtship calls during heterosexual encounters) and audible calls (distress calls during tail-clamp stress) are compared among three sympatric Rattus species (Rattus andamanensis, R. norvegicus, and R. losea). Results showed that the three species have significantly different call parameters, including call duration, peak frequency, bandwidth, pitch, goodness of pitch, frequency modulation, and Wiener entropy. This study provides quantitative evidence for character displacement in the acoustic signals of closely related sympatric Rattus species. Results indicate that the divergence of acoustic signal has arrived at the quite meticulous degree of evolution. Therefore, the acoustic signal trait is likely involved in the evolution of species diversity in rodents.
Iterative range estimation in a sloping-bottom shallow-water waveguide using the generalized array invariant
Authors: Cho Chomgun , Song H. C. , Hursky P. , Jesus S. M.
Published: July 2017

The array invariant theory was generalized by incorporating the waveguide invariant β, referred to as the generalized array invariant. In this paper, the generalized array invariant is extended to mildly range-dependent environments with a sloping bottom where the waveguide invariant is variable in range. Assuming knowledge of the bottom slope, the array invariant can be applied iteratively to estimate the source range starting with β = 1 (i.e., range-independent), which converges toward the correct source range by updating β at the previously estimated range. The iterative array invariant approach is demonstrated using a short-aperture vertical array (2.8-m) in a sloping-bottom shallow-water waveguide from the Random Array of Drifting Acoustic Receivers 2007 experiment, where a high-frequency source (2–3.5 kHz) close to the surface (6-m) was towed between 0.5 and 5 km in range with the water depth varying from 80 to 50 m.
Effectiveness of a Behavior Change Program on Physical Activity and Eating Habits in Patients With Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gerage Aline Mendes , Benedetti Tânia Rosane Bertoldo , Ritti-Dias Raphael Mendes , dos Santos Ana Célia Oliveira , de Souza Bruna Cadengue Coêlho , Almeida Fábio Araujo
Published: July 2017

Background: This study aimed to analyze the effect of a behavior change program, called Vida Ativa Melhorando a Saúde (VAMOS), on physical activity, eating habits, and quality of life in patients with hypertension. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out in 90 patients with hypertension (57.8 ± 9.9 y). They were randomly assigned to 2 groups: VAMOS group (n = 45) and control group (n = 45). The VAMOS group participated in a behavioral change program aimed at motivating changes in physical activity and nutrition behavior for 12 weeks. Physical activity, eating habits, quality of life, self-efficacy, and social support were evaluated at preintervention and postintervention. Results: The control group increased sedentary time (407 ± 87 vs 303 ± 100 min/d; P < .05) and sedentary bouts (434 ± 86 vs 336 ± 98 min/d; P < .05) and reduced total physical activity (553 ± 87 vs 526 ± 86 min/d; P < .05). The VAMOS group improved the general healthy eating habits score (36.9 ± 6.6 vs 43.4 ± 5.8; P < .05) and quality of life (44% vs 92%; P < .05). Conclusion: The VAMOS program was effective in improving eating habits and quality of life in patients with hypertension.
Clarifying Misconceptions and Misrepresentations in Achievement Goal Research in Sport: A Response to Harwood, Hardy, and Swain
Authors: Treasure Darren C. , Duda Joan L. , Hall Howard K. , Roberts Glyn C. , Ames Carol , Maehr Martin L.
Published: July 2017

In a recent article, Harwood, Hardy, and Swain (2000) presented what they termed a critical analysis of the conceptualization and measurement of achievement goals in sport. The purpose of the present article is to challenge their interpretation of achievement goal theory and to question many of their subsequent recommendations. Specifically, the present response will focus on Harwood et al.’s (a) interpretation of Nicholls’ personal theories of achievement; (b) their contention that task involvement cannot exist in competitive sport; (c) the proposed tripartite conceptualization of goal involvement states; (d) their understanding of the relationship between the way an individual conceptualizes ability and the foundation of dispositional goal orientations; and (e) their criticisms of the way dispositional goal orientations have been measured in sport. Theoretical frameworks are always a work in progress. To this end, we concur with the spirit of Harwood et al.’s article which implies that our conceptual models should be continuously questioned, tested, and extended. However, we believe their interpretation and recommendations do little to enhance our conceptual understanding of achievement goal theory in sport.
Resolving quanta of collective spin excitations in a millimeter-sized ferromagnet
Authors: Lachance-Quirion Dany , Tabuchi Yutaka , Ishino Seiichiro , Noguchi Atsushi , Ishikawa Toyofumi , Yamazaki Rekishu , Nakamura Yasunobu
Published: July 2017

Quanta of collective spin excitations are observed in a ferromagnet by measurements of a superconducting quantum bit.
Population genomics of picophytoplankton unveils novel chromosome hypervariability
Authors: Blanc-Mathieu Romain , Krasovec Marc , Hebrard Maxime , Yau Sheree , Desgranges Elodie , Martin Joel , Schackwitz Wendy , Kuo Alan , Salin Gerald , Donnadieu Cecile , Desdevises Yves , Sanchez-Ferandin Sophie , Moreau Hervé , Rivals Eric , Grigoriev Igor V. , Grimsley Nigel , Eyre-Walker Adam , Piganeau Gwenael
Published: July 2017

Phytoplanktonic eukaryotes form huge panmictic populations and have evolved original hypervariability mechanisms to resist viral attack.
Use of Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing for Diagnosis of Extragenital Sexually Transmitted Infections
Authors: Cosentino Lisa A. , Danby Claire S. , Rabe Lorna K. , Macio Ingrid , Meyn Leslie A. , Wiesenfeld Harold C. , Hillier Sharon L.
Published: July 2017

Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) is the preferred method to detect
Chlamydia trachomatis
and
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
, but no commercial tests are cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use with extragenital swab samples. This study evaluated the performance of the Gen-Probe Aptima Combo2 assay (Aptima) and the Cepheid Xpert CT/NG assay (Xpert) to detect
C. trachomatis
and
N. gonorrhoeae
in rectal and pharyngeal samples from 224 men and 175 women reporting a history of anal receptive sexual intercourse. Discordant results between the NAATs were repeated using the assays APTIMA CT or APTIMA GC, which target alternate primers, as the confirmatory tests.
C. trachomatis
was detected from 59 rectal swabs and 8 pharyngeal samples, with 97.7% and 99.5% agreement between the two test systems, respectively. For
C. trachomatis
, Xpert was 95% sensitive (95% CI, 86 to 99%) and Aptima was 92% sensitive (95% CI, 81 to 97%) from rectal swabs, while both systems were 100% sensitive from pharyngeal samples.
N. gonorrhoeae
was detected from 30 rectal and 40 pharyngeal samples, with 99.5% and 97.5% agreement between the two test systems. The sensitivity of Xpert for
N. gonorrhoeae
from rectal swabs was 100% (95% CI, 88 to 100%) versus 93% (95% CI, 78 to 99%) for Aptima. From pharyngeal swab samples, Xpert was 98% sensitive (95% CI, 87 to 99.9%) versus 93% (95% CI, 80 to 98%) for Aptima. For
C. trachomatis
, neither system was >95% sensitive from the rectum, though both were >99.5% specific. For
N. gonorrhoeae
, Xpert had higher sensitivity than Aptima, but with more false positives from pharyngeal samples.
The Host E3-Ubiquitin Ligase TRIM6 Ubiquitinates the Ebola Virus VP35 Protein and Promotes Virus Replication
Authors: Bharaj Preeti , Atkins Colm , Luthra Priya , Giraldo Maria Isabel , Dawes Brian E. , Miorin Lisa , Johnson Jeffrey R. , Krogan Nevan J. , Basler Christopher F. , Freiberg Alexander N. , Rajsbaum Ricardo
Published: July 2017

Ebola virus (EBOV), a member of the
Filoviridae
family, is a highly pathogenic virus that causes severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and is responsible for epidemics throughout sub-Saharan, central, and West Africa. The EBOV genome encodes VP35, an important viral protein involved in virus replication by acting as an essential cofactor of the viral polymerase as well as a potent antagonist of the host antiviral type I interferon (IFN-I) system. By using mass spectrometry analysis and coimmunoprecipitation assays, we show here that VP35 is ubiquitinated on lysine 309 (K309), a residue located on its IFN antagonist domain. We also found that VP35 interacts with TRIM6, a member of the E3-ubiquitin ligase tripartite motif (TRIM) family. We recently reported that TRIM6 promotes the synthesis of unanchored K48-linked polyubiquitin chains, which are not covalently attached to any protein, to induce efficient antiviral IFN-I-mediated responses. Consistent with this notion, VP35 also associated noncovalently with polyubiquitin chains and inhibited TRIM6-mediated IFN-I induction. Intriguingly, we also found that TRIM6 enhances EBOV polymerase activity in a minigenome assay and TRIM6 knockout cells have reduced replication of infectious EBOV, suggesting that VP35 hijacks TRIM6 to promote EBOV replication through ubiquitination. Our work provides evidence that TRIM6 is an important host cellular factor that promotes EBOV replication, and future studies will focus on whether TRIM6 could be targeted for therapeutic intervention against EBOV infection.

IMPORTANCE
EBOV belongs to a family of highly pathogenic viruses that cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and other mammals with high mortality rates (40 to 90%). Because of its high pathogenicity and lack of licensed antivirals and vaccines, EBOV is listed as a tier 1 select-agent risk group 4 pathogen. An important mechanism for the severity of EBOV infection is its suppression of innate immune responses. The EBOV VP35 protein contributes to pathogenesis, because it serves as an essential cofactor of the viral polymerase as well as a potent antagonist of innate immunity. However, how VP35 function is regulated by host cellular factors is poorly understood. Here, we report that the host E3-ubiquitin ligase TRIM6 promotes VP35 ubiquitination and is important for efficient virus replication. Therefore, our study identifies a new host factor, TRIM6, as a potential target in the development of antiviral drugs against EBOV.
Enterovirus 71 Inhibits Pyroptosis through Cleavage of Gasdermin D
Authors: Lei Xiaobo , Zhang Zhenzhen , Xiao Xia , Qi Jianli , He Bin , Wang Jianwei
Published: July 2017

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) can cause hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) in young children. Severe infection with EV71 can lead to neurological complications and even death. However, the molecular basis of viral pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Here, we report that EV71 induces degradation of gasdermin D (GSDMD), an essential component of pyroptosis. Remarkably, the viral protease 3C directly targets GSDMD and induces its cleavage, which is dependent on the protease activity. Further analyses show that the Q193-G194 pair within GSDMD is the cleavage site of 3C. This cleavage produces a shorter N-terminal fragment spanning amino acids 1 to 193 (GSDMD
1–193
). However, unlike the N-terminal fragment produced by caspase-1 cleavage, this fragment fails to trigger cell death or inhibit EV71 replication. Importantly, a T239D or F240D substitution abrogates the activity of GSDMD consisting of amino acids 1 to 275 (GSDMD
1–275
). This is correlated with the lack of pyroptosis or inhibition of viral replication. These results reveal a previously unrecognized strategy for EV71 to evade the antiviral response.

IMPORTANCE
Recently, it has been reported that GSDMD plays a critical role in regulating lipopolysaccharide and NLRP3-mediated interleukin-1β (IL-1β) secretion. In this process, the N-terminal domain of p30 released from GSDMD acts as an effector in cell pyroptosis. We show that EV71 infection downregulates GSDMD. EV71 3C cleaves GSDMD at the Q193-G194 pair, resulting in a truncated N-terminal fragment disrupted for inducing cell pyroptosis. Notably, GSDMD
1–275
(p30) inhibits EV71 replication whereas GSDMD
1–193
does not. These results reveal a new strategy for EV71 to evade the antiviral response.
Maternal Antiviral Immunoglobulin Accumulates in Neural Tissue of Neonates To Prevent HSV Neurological Disease
Authors: Jiang Yike , Patel Chaya D. , Manivanh Richard , North Brian , Backes Iara M. , Posner David A. , Gilli Francesca , Pachner Andrew R. , Nguyen Lananh N. , Leib David A.
Published: July 2017

While antibody responses to neurovirulent pathogens are critical for clearance, the extent to which antibodies access the nervous system to ameliorate infection is poorly understood. In this study on herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), we demonstrate that HSV-specific antibodies are present during HSV-1 latency in the nervous systems of both mice and humans. We show that antibody-secreting cells entered the trigeminal ganglion (TG), a key site of HSV infection, and persisted long after the establishment of latent infection. We also demonstrate the ability of passively administered IgG to enter the TG independently of infection, showing that the naive TG is accessible to antibodies. The translational implication of this finding is that human fetal neural tissue could contain HSV-specific maternally derived antibodies. Exploring this possibility, we observed HSV-specific IgG in HSV DNA-negative human fetal TG, suggesting passive transfer of maternal immunity into the prenatal nervous system. To further investigate the role of maternal antibodies in the neonatal nervous system, we established a murine model to demonstrate that maternal IgG can access and persist in neonatal TG. This maternal antibody not only prevented disseminated infection but also completely protected the neonate from neurological disease and death following HSV challenge. Maternal antibodies therefore have a potent protective role in the neonatal nervous system against HSV infection. These findings strongly support the concept that prevention of prenatal and neonatal neurotropic infections can be achieved through maternal immunization.

IMPORTANCEHerpes simplex virus 1 is a common infection of the nervous system that causes devastating neonatal disease. Using mouse and human tissue, we discovered that antiviral antibodies accumulate in neural tissue after HSV-1 infection in adults. Similarly, these antibodies pass to the offspring during pregnancy. We found that antiviral maternal antibodies can readily access neural tissue of the fetus and neonate. These maternal antibodies then protect neonatal mice against HSV-1 neurological infection and death. These results underscore the previously unappreciated role of maternal antibodies in protecting fetal and newborn nervous systems against infection. These data suggest that maternal immunization would be efficacious at preventing fetal/neonatal neurological infections.
AIM2-Like Receptors Positively and Negatively Regulate the Interferon Response Induced by Cytosolic DNA
Authors: Nakaya Yuki , Lilue Jingtao , Stavrou Spyridon , Moran Eileen A. , Ross Susan R.
Published: July 2017

Cytosolic DNAs derived from retrotransposons serve as pathogen-associated molecular patterns for pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that stimulate the induction of interferons (IFNs) and other cytokines, leading to autoimmune disease. Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase is one PRR that senses retrotransposon DNA, activating type I IFN responses through the stimulator of IFN genes (STING). Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2)-like receptors (ALRs) have also been implicated in these pathways. Here we show that the mouse ALR IFI205 senses cytosolic retrotransposon DNA independently of cyclic GMP-AMP production. AIM2 antagonizes IFI205-mediated IFN induction activity by sequestering it from STING. We also found that the complement of genes located in the ALR locus in C57BL/6 and AIM2 knockout mice are different and unique, which has implications for interpretation of the sensing of pathogens in different mouse strains. Our data suggest that members of the ALR family are critical to the host IFN response to endogenous DNA.

IMPORTANCE
Autoimmune diseases like Aicardi-Goutières syndrome and lupus erythematosus arise when cells of the immune system become activated and attack host cells and tissues. We found that DNA generated by endogenous retroviruses and retroelements in inbred mice and mouse cells is recognized by several host proteins found in macrophages that are members of the ALR family and that these proteins both suppress and activate the pathways leading to the generation of cytokines and IFNs. We also show that there is great genetic diversity between different inbred mouse strains in the ALR genes, which might contribute to differential susceptibility to autoimmunity. Understanding how immune cells become activated is important to the control of disease.
Ibuprofen versus placebo effect on acute kidney injury in ultramarathons: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lipman Grant S , Shea Kate , Christensen Mark , Phillips Caleb , Burns Patrick , Higbee Rebecca , Koskenoja Viktoria , Eifling Kurt , Krabak Brian J
Published: July 2017

Background

Despite concerns that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) contribute to acute kidney injury (AKI), up to 75% of ultramarathon runners ingest these during competition. The effect of NSAID on AKI incidence in ultramarathon runners is unclear.

Methods

Multisite randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial in the Gobi, Atacama, Ecuador and Sri Lankan deserts to determine whether ibuprofen (400 mg every 4 hours) would be non-inferior to placebo during a 50-mile (80 km) foot race. The primary outcome was incidence of AKI defined as severity categories of ‘risk’ of injury of 1.5× baseline creatinine (Cr) or ‘injury’ as 2× Cr, combined to calculate total incidence at the finish line. Non-inferiority margin for difference in AKI rates was defined as 15%.

Results

Eighty-nine participants (47% ibuprofen and 53% placebo) were enrolled with similar demographics between groups. The overall incidence of AKI was 44%. Intent-to-treat analysis found 22 (52%) ibuprofen versus 16 (34%) placebo users developed AKI (18% difference, 95% CI –4% to 41%; OR 2.1, 95% CI 0.9 to 5.1) with a number needed to harm of 5.5. Greater severity of AKI was seen with ibuprofen compared with placebo (risk=38% vs 26%; 95% CI –9% to 34%; injury=14% vs 9%; 95% CI –10% to 21%). Slower finishers were less likely to encounter AKI (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.98) and greater weight loss (−1.3%) increased AKI (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.63).

Conclusion

There were increased rates of AKI in those who took ibuprofen, and although not statistically inferior to placebo by a small margin, there was a number needed to harm of 5.5 people to cause 1 case of AKI. Consideration should therefore be taken before ingesting NSAID during endurance running as it could exacerbate renal injury.

Trial registration number

NCT02272725.
The intervention effect of local alcohol licensing policies on hospital admission and crime: a natural experiment using a novel Bayesian synthetictime-series method
Authors: de Vocht Frank , Tilling Kate , Pliakas Triantafyllos , Angus Colin , Egan Matt , Brennan Alan , Campbell Rona , Hickman Matthew
Published: July 2017

Background

Control of alcohol licensing at local government level is a key component of alcohol policy in England. There is, however, only weak evidence of any public health improvement. We used a novel natural experiment design to estimate the impact of new local alcohol licensing policies on hospital admissions and crime.

Methods

We used Home Office licensing data (2007–2012) to identify (1) interventions: local areas where both a cumulative impact zone and increased licensing enforcement were introduced in 2011; and (2) controls: local areas with neither. Outcomes were 2009–2015 alcohol-related hospital admissions, violent and sexual crimes, and antisocial behaviour. Bayesian structural time series were used to create postintervention synthetic time series (counterfactuals) based on weighted time series in control areas. Intervention effects were calculated from differences between measured and expected trends. Validation analyses were conducted using randomly selected controls.

Results

5 intervention and 86 control areas were identified. Intervention was associated with an average reduction in alcohol-related hospital admissions of 6.3% (95% credible intervals (CI) −12.8% to 0.2%) and to lesser extent with a reduced in violent crimes, especially up to 2013 (–4.6%, 95% CI −10.7% to 1.4%). There was weak evidence of an effect on sexual crimes up 2013 (–8.4%, 95% CI −21.4% to 4.6%) and insufficient evidence of an effect on antisocial behaviour as a result of a change in reporting.

Conclusion

Moderate reductions in alcohol-related hospital admissions and violent and sexual crimes were associated with introduction of local alcohol licensing policies. This novel methodology holds promise for use in other natural experiments in public health.