bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peer Support, Desistance and the Role of the Third Sector
Authors: HINDE KEITH , WHITE ROB
Published: September 2019

This article explores the limits and possibilities of peer support schemes within a prison setting. The theoretical lens is that of desistance, with particular attention given to the concepts of ‘giving back’ and ‘being listened to’ as intentional means of fostering prosocial attitudes and outcomes. The analysis is based upon formal evaluation and informal critical reflections pertaining to the Prison Support Program delivered by the Australian Red Cross in Tasmania, Australia. The article considers the political landscape of law and order in Tasmania, and where the third sector fits into contemporary configurations. It outlines the foundational concepts and relationship elements that underpin peer support programmes, and discusses the practical barriers and opportunities that shape grounded practice. It concludes with a series of observations that might usefully guide the development and improvement of peer support schemes as they continue to evolve and respond to changing institutional circumstances and political environments.
Synthesis and electrochemical characterization of La0.75Sr0.25Mn0.5Cr0.5−xAlxO3, for IT‐ and HT‐SOFCs
Authors: Abdalla Abdalla M. , Kamel Madeha , Hossain Shahzad , Irvine John T. S. , Azad Abul K.
Published: September 2019

The main emphasis of this work is to create a new perovskite material with three different compositions (La0.75Sr0.25Mn0.5Cr0.5−xAlxO3,x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) applied in both Intermediate‐ and High‐temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (IT‐ and HT‐SOFCs). Perovskite‐type polycrystalline La0.75Sr0.25Mn0.5Cr0.5−xAlxO3−δ(x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) powders were synthesized and formed in a single phase structure by a dry chemistry route (standard solid‐state reaction method). The effect of Al doping on physicochemical and surface properties has been discovered. The compounds were crystallized in single phase rhombohedral symmetry (R‐3CSpace. Group). Total conductivity of Al doping in wet 5% H2was higher than both dry 5% H2and air. The obtained results enhance the electro‐catalytic performance and the material conductivity as well, which will be good for anode materials in IT‐ and HT‐SOFCs and the optimum doping is 10%.
Surface modification and biological evaluation of kojic acid/silica nanoparticles as platforms for biomedical systems
Authors: Andrade Gracielle Ferreira , Lima Gesiane da S. , Gastelois Pedro Lana , Assis Gomes Dawidson , Macedo Waldemar Augusto de Almeida , de Sousa Edésia Martins Barros
Published: September 2019

Kojic acid (KA), an important compound with medical, cosmetic, and industrial applications, was loaded in 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane‐functionalized silica nanoparticle (MSNAPTES‐KA5). This nanoparticle with acid was prepared to evaluate its application as a drug delivery system due to its interesting characteristic as large surface area, high pore volume, and good biocompatibility. The samples were characterized using different techniques that demonstrate success in the functionalization and loading process, as can be seen from the results obtained by FTIR, XPS, TGA, and CHN, that confirmed the presence of APTES and KA in the nanoparticles. KA drug loading was estimated using UV‐Vis, TGA, and CHN, which revealed 12% loading of KA in the nanoparticles that showed slow rate of release. Antimicrobial assay was performed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the samples against different microorganisms. The results showed greater MSNAPTES‐KA5 antibacterial activity than free‐kojic acid for Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. In relation to the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition assay; a higher inhibition of MSNAPTES‐KA5, than the inhibition with free‐kojic acid was observed. In addition, MSNAPTES‐KA5 sample was also effective in inhibiting tyrosinase, proving the efficiency of the MSNAPTES base. These studies afford evidence of the possible beneficial biological activities of MSNAPTES‐KA5 nanoparticle in pharmaceutical applications.
Long non‐coding RNA SNHG16 promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma cells by targeting miR‐497‐5p/PIM1 axis
Authors: Zhu Qiaojuan , Li Yazhao , Guo Yang , Hu Linjun , Xiao Zunqiang , Liu Xin , Wang Jiahui , Xu Qiuran , Tong Xiangmin
Published: September 2019

The aberrant expression and dysfunction of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as critical factors governing the initiation and progression of different human cancers, including diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). LncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) has been recognized as a tumour‐promoting factor in various types of cancer. However, the biological role of SNHG16 and its underlying mechanism are still unknown in DLBCL. Here we disclosed that SNHG16 was overexpressed in DLBCL tissues and the derived cell lines. SNHG16 knockdown significantly suppressed cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, and it induced apoptosis of DLBCL cells in vitro. Furthermore, silencing of SNHG16 markedly repressed in vivo growth of OCI‐LY7 cells. Mechanistically, SNHG16 directly interacted with miR‐497‐5p by acting as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) and inversely regulated the abundance of miR‐497‐5p in DLBCL cells. Moreover, the proto‐oncogene proviral integration site for Moloney murine leukaemia virus 1 (PIM1) was identified as a novel direct target of miR‐497‐5p. SNHG16 overexpression rescued miR‐497‐5p‐induced down‐regulation of PIM1 in DLBCL cells. Importantly, restoration of PIM1 expression reversed SNHG16 knockdown‐induced inhibition of proliferation, G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis of OCI‐LY7 cells. Our study suggests that the SNHG16/miR‐497‐5p/PIM1 axis may provide promising therapeutic targets for DLBCL progression.
Circulating kidney injury molecule‐1 as a biomarker of renal parameters in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Gohda Tomohito , Kamei Nozomu , Koshida Takeo , Kubota Mitsunobu , Tanaka Kanako , Yamashita Yoshinori , Adachi Eri , Ichikawa Saki , Murakoshi Maki , Ueda Seiji , Suzuki Yusuke
Published: September 2019

Aims/Introduction

Urinary kidney injury molecule‐1 (KIM‐1) has been associated with proximal tubular damage in human and animal studies. Although it has been recognized as a biomarker of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease, its significance in the serum remains unclear. Therefore, we examined the relationship of serum and urinary KIM‐1 levels with renal parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Serum and urinary KIM‐1 levels, together with urinary liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein, were measured in 602 patients with type 2 diabetes and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2. These were then compared with the urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio and eGFR.

Results

The serum and urinary KIM‐1 levels were significantly different among the three (eGFR ≥60, 45–59, <45 mL/min/1.73 m2) groups. These levels were positively associated with the albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio and negatively associated with eGFR. In a multivariate logistic model, both serum and urinary KIM‐1 were associated with an increased albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (>30 mg/g Cr), but only the serum KIM‐1 was associated with a lower eGFR (<60 mL/min/1.73 m2), after adjustment for covariates.

Conclusions

Renal parameters appear to be strongly associated with serum KIM‐1, and not urinary KIM‐1, in patients with type 2 diabetes and an eGFR ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Parasitism of Hypothenemus hampei (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) in different farming systems and altitudes of Mount Elgon, Uganda
Authors: Ijala Anthony Raphael , Kyamanywa Samuel , Cherukut Scola , Sebatta Christopher , Karungi Jeninah
Published: September 2019

Altitude and farming system play a vital role in modifying the niche for arthropods, by directly influencing microclimatic conditions, the quality and quantity of vegetative cover, which act variably on the behaviour of the pests, and their natural enemies. The objective of the study was to determine their effect on the abundance and parasitism of the Coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei) in the Mount Elgon region. Altitude was categorized as: low (1,400–1,499 m.a.s.l); mid (1,500‐1,679 m.a.s.l); and high (1,680–2,100 m.a.s.l), and farming system was categorized as: Coffee monocrop; Coffee + annual; Coffee + banana; and Coffee + banana + shade trees. For each altitudinal range, each farming system was represented three times. The study was in two districts of the Mt. Elgon, covering a total of 72 Arabica Coffee study sites. The work involved field pest infestation inventories, followed by laboratory rearing for the abundance and parasitism studies. The results revealed highly significant interactions between altitude and farming system in influencing the abundance of the pest and its four parasitoids: Phymastichus coffea, Cephalonomia stephanoderis, Prorops nasuta and Heterospilus coffeicola. C. stephanoderis was highest in the mid‐altitudes within Coffee + banana+shade tree system; P. nasuta was highest at high altitude within Coffee + banana system; P. coffea was most abundant at mid‐altitude within Coffee + banana system, whereas H. coffeicola was highest at high altitude within the Coffee + annual cropping system. H. hampei counts were highest at low altitudes, especially in the Coffee + annual system. Some of these trends can be explained by the condition of the microclimate in the Coffee fields. There was a negative relationship between temperature and abundance of all the four parasitoids. Only C. stephanoderis had a relationship (+) with semi‐natural vegetation species counts. And only H. coffeicola had a relationship (+) with light intensity. These contrasted with H. hampei, which was positively related to temperature and negatively to light intensity.
The long‐term impact of an interprofessional humanistic faculty development programme: A qualitative investigation
Authors: Tortez Leanne M. , Quinlan Phyllis S. , Makaryus Amgad N. , George Cicy , Caruso Vincenza , Gilman Sarah , Ricardo Alison , Fornari Alice
Published: September 2019

Rationale, aims, and objectives

While it has long been supported that faculty development programmes serve as a means to improving practical knowledge, professional skills, and identity formation for faculty, significantly less research is focused on how learning that occurs in faculty development programmes is actually employed in the workplace and ingrained in day‐to‐day activities. The present study qualitatively explored the long‐term impact of the Mentoring and Professionalism in Training (MAP‐IT) programme, a longitudinal, interprofessional faculty development curriculum designed to enhance clinicians' humanistic mentoring skills, specifically nurses and physicians.

Method

Participants included 21 former high‐potential mentors and facilitator leaders who had graduated from the MAP‐IT programme from 2014 to 2016. Semi‐structured focus groups and interviews were conducted between August and September of 2017 to collect participant experiences of the impact of MAP‐IT skills on their professional roles (with colleagues and patients) in their clinical environments. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis methodology.

Results

Qualitative analyses using an editing analysis style resulted in nine major themes, including incorporation into clinical practice, self‐care, team building and conflict resolution, mindfulness, mentorship, professionalism, interprofessional collaboration, humanism, and appreciative inquiry.

Conclusion

The personal and professional development instilled through the MAP‐IT programme was found to remain important over time, years after participation in the programme had concluded, supporting its “durability.” Implications are also discussed.
Polymetamorphism in high‐T metamorphic rocks: An example from the central Appalachians
Authors: Broadwell Kirkland S. , Caddick Mark J. , Beard James S.
Published: September 2019

Contact metamorphism associated with mafic intrusives is one of several mechanisms that has been invoked to produce extensive high‐temperature (HT) metamorphism and associated partial melting of the crust. Indisputable evidence for polymetamorphism in these settings can be difficult to decipher because both melt loss and retrogression (i.e. rehydration) can erase or obscure the records of earlier HT metamorphism by modifying HT mineral parageneses and compositions. Here, a combination of detailed field and petrographical observations, inverse mineral thermometry, and thermodynamic forward modelling is used to delineate the polymetamorphic history of migmatites from the Smith River Allochthon (SRA) in the central Appalachians. Bulk rock geochemical data suggest that some metapelitic samples lost a significant amount of melt during interpreted contact metamorphism with the Rich Acres gabbro, resulting in a residual bulk composition (<50 wt% SiO2, ~30 wt% Al2O3). Garnet cores (Grt1) in SiO2‐depleted samples are interpreted to grow during this HT contact metamorphism, with Fe‐Ti oxide thermometry on spinel inclusions in Grt1, cordierite–garnet thermometry, and thermodynamic forward modelling constraining peak P–T conditions during contact heating of the migmatites to ~800ºC and ∼0.5 GPa. This is associated with an inferred peak assemblage prior to melt loss of crd+kfs+pl+grt+bt+spl (mag+usp+hc)+ilm+sil+qtz+melt. Garnet in SiO2‐depleted samples has a distinct high‐Ca rim (Grt2), which appears to record a younger metamorphic event. A combination of substantial melt loss and later rehydration appears to be a major control on the ability of SiO2‐depleted samples to faithfully record evidence for this polymetamorphism. The tectonic implications of this younger metamorphic event are not entirely clear, but it appears to record renewed burial and heating of the SRA sometime after the Taconic orogeny, which may be related to either the neo‐Acadian or Alleghanian orogenies.
Spontaneous meningoencephalitis by Staphylococcus aureus in an infant golden‐headed lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysomelas)
Authors: Molina Camila V. , Bueno Marina G. , Kierulff Maria Cecília M. , Pissinatti Alcides , Cunha Marcos P. V. , Knöbl Terezinha , Catão‐Dias José L. , Díaz‐Delgado Josué
Published: September 2019

Non‐human primates are susceptible to many bacteria, some of which bear zoonotic potential. We report the pathologic features of spontaneous fulminating meningoencephalitis by Staphylococcus aureus in a captive infant golden‐headed lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysomelas) from Brazil.
Medical conditions revealed in fairy tales, folklore and literature
Authors: Massie John
Published: September 2019

Our culture has a rich history of fairy tales, folklore and literature. These have all served a purpose, often to entertain, but also to moralise. Authors have often included interesting characters with identifiable medical conditions or described interesting characters that lend their names to conditions we can identify today. This paper looks at the medical conditions found in fairy tales, folklore and literature.
Appendicitis or non‐specific abdominal pain in pre‐school children: When to request abdominal ultrasound?
Authors: Prada‐Arias Marcos , Gómez‐Veiras Javier , Vázquez José L , Salgado‐Barreira Ángel , Montero‐Sánchez Margarita , Fernández‐Lorenzo José R
Published: September 2019

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the most useful diagnostic tools to differentiate appendicitis from non‐specific abdominal pain (NSAP) in pre‐school children.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated all children aged 5 years or younger admitted for suspected appendicitis at a paediatric emergency department during 5 years. Cases of NSAP and appendicitis were enrolled according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The different variables collected were assessed by statistic and diagnostic accuracy studies.

Results

A total of 82 patients were studied: 27 cases of NSAP and 55 cases of appendicitis. We found no symptoms or signs with a high power of discrimination between both processes. Complicated cases of appendicitis begin to appear when the duration of symptoms exceeds 12 h. Among laboratory tests, C‐reactive protein (CRP) value >34 mg/L was the variable with a greater association to appendicitis (odds ratio 9.8). Abdominal ultrasound (US) had high sensitivity and specificity to differentiate appendicitis, significantly improving its diagnostic accuracy when the duration of symptoms exceeds 12 h.

Conclusions

A good history and physical examination are important in the diagnostic process, but reliable physical signs can be difficult to elicit in pre‐school children. CRP and abdominal US are useful investigations that can improve diagnostic accuracy. According to our results, abdominal pain duration longer than 12 h or CRP value >34 mg/L should be an indication to perform an abdominal US in pre‐school children with right lower quadrant tenderness.
Jersey steer ruminal papillae histology and nutrigenomics with diet changes
Authors: Novak Taylor E. , Rodriguez‐Zas Sandra L. , Southey Bruce R. , Starkey Jessica D. , Stockler Ricardo M. , Alfaro Gastón F. , Moisá Sonia J.
Published: September 2019

The transition from a high forage to a high concentrate diet is an important milestone for beef cattle moving from a stocker system to the feedlot. However, little is known about how this transition affects the rumen epithelial gene expression. This study assessed the effects of the transition from a high forage to a high concentrate diet as well as the transition from a high concentrate to a high forage diet on a variety of genes as well as ruminal papillae morphology in rumen fistulated Jersey steers. Jersey steers (n = 5) were fed either a high forage diet (80% forage and 20% grain) and transitioned to a high concentrate diet (20% forage and 80% grain) or a high concentrate diet (40% forage and 60% grain) and transitioned to a high forage diet (100% forage). Papillae from the rumen were collected for histology and RT‐qPCR analysis. Body weight had a tendency for significant difference (p = .08). Histological analysis did not show changes in papillae length or width in steers transitioning from a high forage to a high concentrate diet or vice versa (p > .05). Genes related to cell membrane structure (CLDN1, CLDN4, DSG1), fatty acid metabolism (CPT1A, ACADSB), glycolysis (PFKL), ketogenesis (HMGCL, HMGCS2, ACAT1), lactate/pyruvate (LDHA), oxidative stress (NQO1), tissue growth (AKT3, EGFR, EREG, IGFBP5, IRS1) and the urea cycle (SLC14A1) were considered in this study. Overall, genes related to fatty acid metabolism (ACADSB) and growth and development (AKT3 and IGFBP5) had a tendency for a treatment × day on trial interaction effect. These profiles may be indicators of rumen epithelial adaptations in response to changes in diet. In conclusion, these results indicate that changes in the composition of the diet can alter the expression of genes with specific functions in rumen epithelial metabolism.
Effect of dietary saponin rich soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) shell powder on growth performance, immunity, serum biochemistry and gut health of broiler chickens
Authors: Bera Indrajit , Tyagi Praveen K. , Mir Nasir Akbar , Begum Jubeda , Dev Kapil , Tyagi Pramod K. , Biswas Avishek , Sharma Divya , Mandal Asit Baran
Published: September 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) shell powder (SSP), a cheap source of saponins, on growth performance, immunity, serum biochemistry and gut health of broiler chickens. The experimental design was 4×2, employing four saponin levels (0, 100, 150 and 200 mg/kg diet), each provided for two time durations (0–42 day and 21–42 day) resulting into eight dietary treatments. Results revealed no significant effect of dietary saponins on body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio of birds. The abdominal fat percentage, heterophil to lymphocyte ratio, serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, faecal total plate count, coliform count and E. coli count decreased (p < .05) progressively with increasing saponin levels and lower values were observed at 150 mg and 200 mg saponin levels. Significant improvement of cell‐mediated and humoral immune response was observed in birds fed 150 mg and 200 mg saponin compared to control. The serum glucose concentration was significantly (p < .05) higher in control group compared to other groups. No significant effects of dietary saponin were observed on carcass characteristics, faecal Lactobacillus count, intestinal histomorphometry and cost economics of broiler chicken production. Thus, dietary saponins at 150 mg/kg diet as SSP for three weeks (21–42 days) was optimum for better immunity and welfare of birds without adverse effects on the growth performance.
Does Ethnolinguistic Diversity Preclude Good Governance? A Comparative Study with Alternative Data, 1990‐2015
Authors: de Soysa Indra , Almås Synøve
Published: September 2019

To what extent does ethno‐linguistic diversity hinder good governance? Using a variety of data measuring political and economic corruption for 150 countries over 24 years, we find positive effects between ethno‐linguistic diversity and corruption, but the substantive effects are very slight. Higher diversity also predicts higher economic freedom and its subcomponents, measures routinely used as proxies of sound economic governance. Indicators of ethnic frictions measured as ethnic exclusion from state power and discrimination, show positive effects on good governance, results at odds with the idea that governance is harmed by fraught ethnic relations. These findings suggest that the effects of societal diversity do not uniformly explain the failure of governance. We also find diversity to matter negatively when assessing violent state repression of dissent. The results are robust to a host of alternative specifications, data, and estimating strategy, including the inclusion of region fixed effects and hybrid fixed effects.
The ATG16L1 gene variant rs2241880 (p.T300A) is associated with susceptibility to HCC in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Reuken Philipp A. , Lutz Philipp , Casper Markus , Al‐Herwi Eihab , Stengel Sven , Spengler Ulrich , Stallmach Andreas , Lammert Frank , Nischalke Hans Dieter , Bruns Tony
Published: September 2019

Background and aims

Protein and organelle turnover by autophagy is a key component to maintain cellular homeostasis. Loss of the autophagy protein ATG16L1 is associated with reduced bacterial killing and aberrant interleukin‐1β production, perpetuating inflammation and carcinogenesis. Here we hypothesized that the functional p.T300A gene variant in ATG16L1 is associated with an increased risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhosis.

Methods

A case‐control study was performed using a prospective derivation cohort (107 patients with HCC and 101 controls) and an independent validation cohort (124 patients with HCC and 108 controls) of patients with cirrhosis of any aetiology. ATG16L1 p.T300A (rs2241880) and PNPLA3 p.I148M (rs738409) variants were determined by real‐time PCR.

Results

The G allele of the ATG16L1 p.T300A variant was more frequent in patients with HCC compared to controls without HCC in the derivation cohort (0.62 vs. 0.51, P = .022) and in the validation cohort (0.59 vs. 0.50, P = .045). In combined analysis, the odds ratios (OR) were 1.76 (95% CI: 1.07‐2.88) for G allele positivity and 2.43 (95% CI: 1.37‐4.31) for p.T300A G allele homozygosity. This association was independent from the presence of a PNPLA3 variant, which was also associated with HCC (OR 2.10; 95% CI: 1.20‐3.66), and it remained significant after adjustment for male sex, age and aetiology in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

The common germ‐line ATG16L1 gene variant is a risk factor for HCC in patients with cirrhosis. Personalized strategies employing the genetic risk conferred by ATG16L1 and PNPLA3 may be used for risk‐based surveillance in cirrhosis.
Transcriptomics of monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) reveals that toxic host plants alter expression of detoxification genes and down‐regulate a small number of immune genes
Authors: Tan Wen‐Hao , Acevedo Tarik , Harris Erica V. , Alcaide Tiffanie Y. , Walters James R. , Hunter Mark D. , Gerardo Nicole M. , de Roode Jacobus C.
Published: September 2019

Herbivorous insects have evolved many mechanisms to overcome plant chemical defences, including detoxification and sequestration. Herbivores may also use toxic plants to reduce parasite infection. Plant toxins could directly interfere with parasites or could enhance endogenous immunity. Alternatively, plant toxins could favour down‐regulation of endogenous immunity by providing an alternative (exogenous) defence against parasitism. However, studies on genomewide transcriptomic responses to plant defences and the interplay between plant toxicity and parasite infection remain rare. Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) are specialist herbivores of milkweeds (Asclepias spp.), which contain toxic cardenolides. Monarchs have adapted to cardenolides through multiple resistance mechanisms and can sequester cardenolides to defend against bird predators. In addition, high‐cardenolide milkweeds confer monarch resistance to a specialist protozoan parasite (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha). We used this system to study the interplay between the effects of plant toxicity and parasite infection on global gene expression. We compared transcriptional profiles between parasite‐infected and uninfected monarch larvae reared on two milkweed species. Our results demonstrate that monarch differentially express several hundred genes when feeding on A. curassavica and A. incarnata, two species that differ substantially in cardenolide concentrations. These differentially expressed genes include genes within multiple families of canonical insect detoxification genes, suggesting that they play a role in monarch toxin resistance and sequestration. Interestingly, we found little transcriptional response to infection. However, parasite growth was reduced in monarchs reared on A. curassavica, and in these monarchs, several immune genes were down‐regulated, consistent with the hypothesis that medicinal plants can reduce reliance on endogenous immunity.
Polygenic selection drives the evolution of convergent transcriptomic landscapes across continents within a Nearctic sister species complex
Authors: Rougeux Clément , Gagnaire Pierre‐Alexandre , Praebel Kim , Seehausen Ole , Bernatchez Louis
Published: September 2019

In contrast to the plethora of studies focusing on the genomic basis of adaptive phenotypic divergence, the role of gene expression during speciation has been much less investigated and consequently less understood. Yet, the convergence of differential gene expression patterns between closely related species‐pairs might reflect the role of natural selection during the process of ecological speciation. Here, we test for intercontinental convergence in differential transcriptional signatures between limnetic and benthic sympatric species‐pairs of Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) and its sister lineage, the European Whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus), using six replicated sympatric species‐pairs (two in North America, two in Norway and two in Switzerland). We characterized both sequence variation in transcribed regions and differential gene expression between sympatric limnetic and benthic species across regions and continents. Our first finding was that differentially expressed genes (DEG) between limnetic and benthic whitefish tend to be enriched in shared polymorphism among sister lineages. We then used both genotypes and covariation in expression in order to infer polygenic selection at the gene level. We identified parallel outliers and DEG involving genes primarily overexpressed in limnetic species relative to the benthic species. Our analysis finally revealed the existence of shared genomic bases underlying parallel differential expression across replicated species‐pairs from both continents, such as a cis‐eQTL affecting the pyruvate kinase expression level involved in glycolysis. Our results are consistent with a long‐standing role of natural selection in maintaining trans‐continental diversity at phenotypic traits involved in ecological speciation between limnetic and benthic whitefishes.
Host‐microbiota interactions shed light on mortality events in the striped venus clam Chamelea gallina
Authors: Milan Massimo , Smits Morgan , Dalla Rovere Giulia , Iori Silvia , Zampieri Angela , Carraro Lisa , Martino Camillo , Papetti Chiara , Ianni Andrea , Ferri Nicola , Iannaccone Marco , Patarnello Tomaso , Brunetta Romina , Ciofi Claudio , Grotta Lisa , Arcangeli Giuseppe , Bargelloni Luca , Cardazzo Barbara , Martino Giuseppe
Published: September 2019

Mass mortalities due to disease outbreaks have recently affected a number of major taxa in marine ecosystems. Climate‐ and pollution‐induced stress may compromise host immune defenses, increasing the risk of opportunistic diseases. Despite growing evidence that mass mortality events affecting marine species worldwide are strongly influenced by the interplay of numerous environmental factors, the reductionist approaches most frequently used to investigate these factors hindered the interpretation of these multifactorial pathologies. In this study, we propose a broader approach based on the combination of RNA‐sequencing and 16S microbiota analyses to decipher the factors underlying mass mortality in the striped venus clam, Chamelea gallina, along the Adriatic coast. On one hand, gene expression profiling and functional analyses of microbial communities showed the over‐expression of several genes and molecular pathways involved in xenobiotic metabolism, suggesting potential chemical contamination in mortality sites. On the other hand, the down‐regulation of several genes involved in immune and stress response, and the over‐representation of opportunistic pathogens such as Vibrio and Photobacterium spp. indicates that these microbial species may take advantage of compromised host immune pathways and defense mechanisms that are potentially affected by chemical exposure, resulting in periodic mortality events. We propose the application of our approach to interpret and anticipate the risks inherent in the combined effects of pollutants and microbes on marine animals in today's rapidly changing environment.
Long‐term evolution of the natural isolate of Escherichia coli 536 in the mouse gut colonized after maternal transmission reveals convergence in the constitutive expression of the lactose operon
Authors: Ghalayini Mohamed , Magnan Melanie , Dion Sara , Zatout Ouassila , Bourguignon Lucie , Tenaillon Olivier , Lescat Mathilde
Published: September 2019

In vitro experimental evolution has taught us many lessons on the molecular bases of adaptation. To move towards more natural settings, evolution in the mice gut has been successfully performed. Yet, these experiments suffered from the use of laboratory strains as well as the use of axenic or streptomycin‐treated mice to maintain the inoculated strains. To circumvent these limitations, we conducted a one‐year experimental evolution in vivo using a natural isolate of E. coli, strain 536, in conditions mimicking as much as possible natural environment with mother‐to‐offspring microbiota transmission. Mice were then distributed in 24 independent cages and separated into two different diets: a regular one (chow diet, CD) and high‐fat and high‐sugar one (Western Diet, WD). Genome sequences revealed an early and rapid selection during the breastfeeding period that selected the constitutive expression of the well‐characterized lactose operon. E. coli was lost significantly more in CD than WD; however, we could not detect any genomic signature of selection, nor any diet specificities during the later part of the experiments. The apparently neutral evolution presumably due to low population size maintained nevertheless at high frequency the early selected mutations affecting lactose regulation. The rapid loss of lactose operon regulation challenges the idea that plastic gene expression is both optimal and stable in the wild.
Cell‐derived microparticles and von Willebrand factor in Brazilian renal transplant recipients
Authors: Martins Suellen R , Alves Lorraine V , Cardoso Carolina N , Silva Letícia G , Nunes Fernanda FC , de Lucas Júnior Fernando das M , Silva Ana CS , Dusse Luci MS , Alpoim Patrícia N , Mota Ana PL
Published: September 2019

Aim

This study was aimed at investigating platelet‐derived microparticles (PMP), endothelium cell‐derived microparticles (EMP) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) according to renal function and time post‐transplant. We found this study relevant because unusual biomarkers seem to be a promising tool to evaluate chronic renal disease and post‐transplant monitoring.

Methods

Ninety‐one renal transplant recipients (RTx) were allocated into groups according to creatinine plasma levels (C1 < 1.4 and C2 ≥ 1.4 mg/dL), estimated glomerular filtration rates (R1 < 60 and R2 ≥ 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2) and time post‐transplant (T1: 3–24; T2: 25–60; T3: 61–120; and T4 > 120 months). EMP and PMP levels were assessed by flow cytometry and VWF levels were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Platelet‐derived microparticle levels were higher in C1 group compared with C2 (P= 0.00). According to diameter, small PMP and EMP (≤0.7 μm) were also higher in C1 group, all values ofPless than 0.05. T1 and T2 groups have shown high EMP levels and a predominance of big microparticle (>0.7 μm) compared with T4 group, all values ofPless than 0.05. Higher VWF levels were observed among RTx with creatinine ≥1.4 mg/dL compared with other RTx,P= 0.01.

Conclusion

The results showed that PMP, EMP and VWF are promising markers to evaluate endothelial function in RTx. These biomarkers could play a major role in monitoring patients after renal transplant.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease and chronic cough: A possible mechanism elucidated by ambulatory pH‐impedance‐pressure monitoring
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Lin Sihui , Wang Zhifeng , Zhang Hong , Sun Xiaohong , Li Ji , Wu Dong , Ke Meiyun , Fang Xiucai
Published: September 2019

Background

The pathophysiological mechanism(s) of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)‐related chronic cough (CC) is unclear. We aimed to determine the mechanism of reflux‐induced cough by synchronous monitoring of reflux episodes, esophageal motility, and cough.

Methods

Patients with GERD were prospectively enrolled and classified into GERD with CC (GERD‐CC) and without CC (GERD) groups. Twenty‐four‐hour ambulatory pH‐impedance‐pressure monitoring was performed; the reflux patterns, esophageal motility during prolonged exposure to acid and characteristics of reflux episodes that induced coughing paroxysms were analyzed.

Key Results

Thirty‐one patients with GERD‐CC and 47 with GERD were enrolled; all of whose monitoring results fulfilled the criteria for diagnosis of GERD. Patients with GERD‐CC had higher reflux symptom scores, longer exposure to acid, higher DeMeester scores, and more frequent reflux episodes, proximal extent reflux detected by impedance, and higher percentage of strongly acidic reflux than patients in the GERD group (all P < .05). Of 63 reflux‐cough episodes identified in the GERD‐CC group, 74.6% of distal reflux and 67.0% of proximal reflux episodes were acidic. More patients had low pan‐esophageal pressure in primary peristalsis (48.5% vs 11.8%, P = .000) and synchronous contraction in secondary peristalsis during prolonged exposure to acid in the GERD‐CC than in the GERD group (63.9% vs 9.1%, P = .000).

Conclusions & Inferences

Proximal acidic reflux and distal reflux‐reflex are jointly associated with reflux‐induced cough in patients with GERD. Low pan‐esophageal pressure in primary peristalsis and synchronous contraction in secondary peristalsis may play important roles in GERD‐associated chronic cough.
Natural variation at OsCERK1 regulates arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in rice
Authors: Huang Renliang , Li Zheng , Mao Cui , Zhang Hui , Sun Zhongfeng , Li Hao , Huang Congcong , Feng Yong , Shen Xianhua , Bucher Marcel , Zhang Zhongming , Lin Yongjun , Cao Yangrong , Duanmu Deqiang
Published: September 2019

The symbiotic interaction between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and land plants is essential for efficient nutrient acquisition and utilisation. Our understanding of key processes controlling the AMF colonisation in rice is still limited.

Dongxiang wild rice (DY) exhibited a stronger colonisation with Rhizophagus irregularis than the rice cultivar Zhongzao 35 (ZZ35). Chromosome segment substitution lines were constructed and the OsCERK1 gene from DY was mapped. Transgenic plants in the japonica rice Zhonghua 11 (ZZ11) were constructed to compare root colonisation by AMF.

Chromosome single‐segment substitution lines containing OsCERK1DY showed higher phosphorus content and grain yield relative to ZZ35. Four amino acids substitutions were identified among the OsCERK1 haplotypes of DY, ZZ35 and ZH11 and two of these were in the second lysine‐motif domain, which is essential for the differences of AMF colonisation level among rice varieties. Heterologous expression of OsCERK1DY in ZH11 significantly enhanced AMF colonisation and increased resistance against the pathogenic fungi Magnaporthe oryzae. Notably, the OsCERK1DY haplotype was absent from 4660 cultivated rice varieties.

We conclude that OsCERK1 is a key gene affecting the symbiotic interaction with AMF and OsCERK1DY has the biotechnological potential to increase rice phosphorus acquisition and utilisation efficiency for sustainable agriculture.
The first INFORMAS national food environments and policies survey in New Zealand: A blueprint country profile for measuring progress on creating healthy food environments
Authors: Vandevijvere Stefanie , Mackay Sally , D'Souza Erica , Swinburn Boyd
Published: September 2019

The International Network for Food and Obesity/NCDs Research, Monitoring and Action Support aims to benchmark national food environments. This study proposes a blueprint country profile to measure progress on creating healthy food environments, based on the results of the first, comprehensive survey in New Zealand (NZ). We assessed the implementation of national food environment policies and food industry commitments to improve population nutrition and the strength and comprehensiveness of public sector settings' nutrition policies. The healthiness of the packaged food supply, including health‐related labelling, was evaluated. Food environments were measured in 833 schools, 204 supermarkets, 1500 takeaway outlets, 28 hospitals, 70 sport centres, and around all NZ schools. Food swamps, defined as areas with high relative density of unhealthy food outlets, were identified, and food marketing to children on television, websites, social media and packages, in magazines, and in and around schools was measured. The cost differential between healthy and current household diets was calculated for different population groups. NZ's food environment profile is largely unhealthy, and there are inequalities in access to healthy food environments. It is anticipated that the proposed country profile can help other countries tackle unhealthy food environments through increasing accountability of governments and the industry.
Neighborhood supermarket access and childhood obesity: A systematic review
Authors: Zhou Qian , Zhao Li , Zhang Longhao , Xiao Qian , Wu Tong , Visscher Tommy , Zhao Jinfeng , Xin Junguo , Yu Xueshuang , Xue Hong , Li Hong , Pan Jay , Jia Peng
Published: September 2019

Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing public health issues nowadays. The environmental factors have been identified as potential risks for obesity, as they may influence people's lifestyle behaviours. Lack of access to supermarkets that usually provide healthy food options has been found to be a risk factor for childhood obesity in several studies. However, findings remained inconclusive. We aimed to systematically review the association between access to supermarkets and childhood obesity. A literature search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase for studies published before 1 January 2019. Twenty‐four studies conducted in four countries were identified, from which data on the basic characteristics of studies and participants, measures of access to supermarkets, and associations between access to supermarkets and weight‐related behaviours and outcomes were extracted. The median sample size was 1858 participants. Half of the included studies indicated a negative association, one fourth reported a positive association, and the remaining one fourth did not find a significant association. Better designed studies are necessary to achieve a robust understanding of this epidemiological relationship in the future.
Hospital readmission following pediatric heart transplantation
Authors: Mahle William T. , Mason Kristen L. , Dipchand Anne I. , Richmond Marc , Feingold Brian , Canter Charles E. , Hsu Daphne T. , Singh Tajinder P. , Shaddy Robert E. , Armstrong Brian D. , Zeevi Adriana , Iklé David N. , Diop Helena , Odim Jonah , Webber Steven A. ,   CTOTC‐04 Investigators
Published: September 2019

The frequency, indications, and outcomes for readmission following pediatric heart transplantation are poorly characterized. A better understanding of this phenomenon will help guide strategies to address the causes of readmission. Data from the Clinical Trials in Organ Transplantation for Children (CTOTC‐04) multi‐institutional collaborative study were utilized to determine incidence of, and risk factors for, hospital readmission within 30 days and 1 year from initial hospital discharge. Among 240 transplants at 8 centers, 227 subjects were discharged and had follow‐up. 129 subjects (56.8%) were readmitted within one year; 71 had two or more readmissions. The 30‐day and 1‐year freedom from readmission were 70.5% (CI: 64.1%, 76.0%) and 42.2% (CI: 35.7%, 48.7%), respectively. The most common indications for readmissions were infection followed by rejection and fever without confirmed infection, accounting for 25.0%, 10.6%, and 6.2% of readmissions, respectively. Factors independently associated with increased risk of first readmission within 1 year (Cox proportional hazard model) were as follows: transplant in infancy (P = .05), longer transplant hospitalization (P = .04), lower UNOS urgency status (2/IB vs 1A) at transplant (P = .04), and Hispanic ethnicity (P = .05). Hospital readmission occurs frequently in the first year following discharge after heart transplantation with highest risk in the first 30 days. Infection is more common than rejection as cause for readmission, with death during readmission being rare. A number of patient factors are associated with higher risk of readmission. A fuller understanding of these risk factors may help tailor strategies to reduce unnecessary hospital readmission.
Reduced lung elastic recoil and fixed airflow obstruction in asthma
Authors: Tonga Katrina O. , Chapman David G. , Farah Claude S. , Oliver Brian G. , Zimmermann Sabine C. , Milne Stephen , Sanai Farid , Jetmalani Kanika , Berend Norbert , Thamrin Cindy , King Gregory G.
Published: September 2019

Background and objective

Fixed airflow obstruction (FAO) in asthma occurs despite optimal inhaled treatment and no smoking history, and remains a significant problem, particularly with increasing age and duration of asthma. Increased lung compliance and loss of lung elastic recoil has been observed in older people with asthma, but their link to FAO has not been established. We determined the relationship between abnormal lung elasticity and airflow obstruction in asthma.

Methods

Non‐smoking asthmatic subjects aged >40 years, treated with 2 months of high‐dose inhaled corticosteroid/long‐acting beta‐agonist (ICS/LABA), had FAO measured by spirometry, and respiratory system resistance at 5 Hz (Rrs5) and respiratory system reactance at 5 Hz (Xrs5) measured by forced oscillation technique. Lung compliance (K) and elastic recoil (B/A) were calculated from pressure–volume curves measured by an oesophageal balloon. Linear correlations between K and B/A, and forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC), Rrs5 and Xrs5 were assessed.

Results

Eighteen subjects (11 males; mean ± SD age: 64 ± 8 years, asthma duration: 39 ± 22 years) had moderate FAO measured by spirometry ((mean ± SD z‐score) post‐bronchodilator FEV1: −2.2 ± 0.5, FVC: −0.7 ± 1.0, FEV1/FVC: −2.6 ± 0.7) and by increased Rrs5 (median (IQR) z‐score) 2.7 (1.9 to 3.2) and decreased Xrs5: −4.1(−2.4 to −7.3). Lung compliance (K) was increased in 9 of 18 subjects and lung elastic recoil (B/A) reduced in 5 of 18 subjects. FEV1/FVC correlated negatively with K (rs = −0.60, P = 0.008) and Rrs5 correlated negatively with B/A (rs = −0.52, P = 0.026), independent of age. Xrs5 did not correlate with lung elasticity indices.

Conclusion

Increased lung compliance and loss of elastic recoil relate to airflow obstruction in older non‐smoking asthmatic subjects, independent of ageing. Thus, structural lung tissue changes may contribute to persistent, steroid‐resistant airflow obstruction.Clinical trial registration: ACTRN126150000985583 at anzctr.org.au (UTN: U1111‐1156‐2795)
Visual and spatial hybridity in the early modern Iberian world
Authors: Fernández‐González Laura , Trusted Marjorie
Published: September 2019

The present Special Issue examines visual and spatial hybridity in order to explore how theories of encounter, hybridity and globalisation can be applied to the visual arts of the Iberian world in both European and extra‐European contexts. It examines hybridity through case studies from Spain and Portugal, as well as cultural, artistic and architectural production in other imperial centres in the Iberian world. The eight articles that comprise this themed issue discuss the circulation of works of art and ideas, continuity and change, and processes of acculturation in comparative perspectives. Articles engage critically with the limits of hybridity as a historiographical term, and what they pose for our understanding of early modern visual culture. While the proposed Special Issue does not include a case study of every city or region in the Iberian world, articles discuss how artistic and cultural production combined forms expressing local, regional and the transregional identities, thus creating a rich variety of cross‐cultural designs that are a reflection of the period, both within and beyond Iberian imperial boundaries.