bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data-driven Topological Filtering based on Orthogonal Minimal Spanning Trees: Application to Multi-Group MEG Resting-State Connectivity
Authors: Dimitriadis Stavros I. , Antonakakis Marios , Simos Panagiotis , Fletcher Jack M. , Papanicolau Andrew C.
Published: September 2017

In the present study a novel data-driven topological filtering technique is introduced to derive the backbone of functional brain networks relying on orthogonal minimal spanning trees (OMST). The method aims to identify the essential functional connections to ensure optimal information flow via the objective criterion of global efficiency minus the cost of surviving connections. The OMST technique was applied to multichannel, resting-state neuromagnetic recordings from four groups of participants: healthy adults (n=50), adults who have suffered mild traumatic brain injury (n=30), typically developing children (n=27), and reading-disabled children (n=25). Weighted interactions between network nodes (sensors) were computed using an integrated approach of dominant intrinsic coupling modes based on two alternative metrics (symbolic mutual information and phase lag index), resulting in excellent discrimination of individual cases according to their group membership. Classification results using OMST-derived functional networks were clearly superior to results using either relative power spectrum features or functional networks derived through the conventional minimal spanning trees algorithm.
Microinjection to deliver protein, mRNA, and DNA into zygotes of the cnidarian endosymbiosis modelAiptasiasp.
Authors: Jones Victor A. S. , Bucher Madeline , Hambleton Elizabeth A. , Guse Annika
Published: September 2017

Reef-building corals depend on an intracellular symbiosis with photosynthetic dinoflagellates for their survival in nutrient-poor oceans. Symbionts are phagocytosed by coral larvae from the environment and transfer essential nutrients to their hosts.Aiptasia, a small tropical marine sea anemone, is emerging as a tractable model system for coral symbiosis; however, to date functional tools and genetic transformation are lacking. Here we have established an efficient workflow to collectAiptasiaeggs forin vitrofertilization and microinjection as the basis for experimental manipulations in the developing embryo and larvae. We demonstrate that protein, mRNA, and DNA can successfully be injected into liveAiptasiazygotes to label actin with recombinant Lifeact-eGFP protein; to label nuclei and cell membranes with NLS-eGFP and farnesylated mCherry translated from injected mRNA; and to transiently drive transgene expression from anAiptasia-specific promoter, respectively, in embryos and larvae. These proof-of-concept approaches pave the way for future functional studies of development and symbiosis establishment inAiptasia, a powerful model to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying intracellular coral-algal symbiosis.

Summary Statement

Toolkit extension: development of microinjection for cellular labelling, expression of exogenous genes and live imaging inAiptasia, an emerging model for intracellular coral-algal symbiosis.
No major flaws in “Identification of individuals by trait prediction using whole-genome sequencing data”
Authors: Lippert Christoph , Sabatini Riccardo , Maher M. Cyrus , Kang Eun Yong , Lee Seunghak , Arikan Okan , Harley Alena , Bernal Axel , Garst Peter , Lavrenko Victor , Yocum Ken , Wong Theodore M. , Zhu Mingfu , Yang Wen-Yun , Chang Chris , Hicks Barry , Ramakrishnan Smriti , Tang Haibao , Xie Chao , Brewerton Suzanne , Turpaz Yaron , Telenti Amalio , Roby Rhonda K. , Och Franz , Venter J. Craig
Published: September 2017

In a recently published PNAS article, we studied the identifiability of genomic samples using machine learning methods [Lippert et al., 2017]. In a response, Erlich [2017] argued that our work contained major flaws. The main technical critique of Erlich [2017] builds on a simulation experiment that shows that our proposed algorithm, which uses only a genomic sample for identification, performed no better than a strategy that uses demographic variables. Below, we show why this comparison is misleading and provide a detailed discussion of the key critical points in our analyses that have been brought up in Erlich [2017] and in the media. Further, not only faces may be derived from DNA, but a wide range of phenotypes and demographic variables. In this light, the main contribution of Lippert et al. [2017] is an algorithm that identifies genomes of individuals by combining multiple DNA-based predictive models for a myriad of traits.
The impact of personal resources on turnover intention
Authors: Kim Woocheol , Hyun Young Sup
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate mediating effects of employees’ work engagement in the relationships between their personal resources (i.e. self-efficacy, organizational-based self-esteem and optimism) and turnover intention within Korean organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 571 survey responses collected from Korean organizations were utilized and analyzed to test the proposed research hypotheses by using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results showed that all of personal resources had a positive impact on work engagement and work engagement had a negative impact on turnover intention. The results also revealed that although both organizational-based self-esteem and optimism had a negative impact on turnover intention, self-efficacy had an impact on turnover intention with the opposite way. In addition, work engagement mediated the relationships among self-efficacy, organizational-based self-esteem, optimism and turnover intention.

Practical implications

The findings of the study could suggest practical implications when human resource development (HRD) professionals consider appropriate human resource interventions (e.g. training intervention) as to how to create and maintain a working environment where employees are facilitated and learned to have high levels of personal resources (i.e. self-efficacy, organizational-based self-esteem and optimism), which leads to enhancing employees’ work engagement and positive outcomes (e.g. lower turnover intention).

Originality/value

Given that little research effort has been made to investigate the relationships among personal resources (i.e. self-efficacy, organizational-based self-esteem and optimism), work engagement and turnover intention, this research contributes to the HRD literature by adding empirical evidence of the relationships in the context of Korean organizations.
A Geographic Information System‐based site selection experience for the construction of a geomagnetic observatory in Kerman Province, Iran
Authors: Izadi Yazdanabadi Marjan , Hojat Azadeh , Ranjbar Hojjatollah , Karimi Nasab Saeed
Published: September 2017

In recent years, the necessity of constructing new geomagnetic observatories in Iran has been discussed from various aspects. Improper site selection of such important data centres can significantly affect the quality of their recorded data. In this research, site selection studies were performed to find the most favourable location to construct a geomagnetic observatory in Kerman Province, southeast of Iran. Having defined 11 site selection criteria for geomagnetic observatories, all the data layers were prepared for the whole province. After detection of seven promising regions using analytical hierarchy process and fuzzy logic method in geographical information system, Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution was used for ranking of the suitable areas. The most favourable region was finally detected southwest of Kerman Province, located between the cities of Baft and Sirjan. Detailed land surveys can be focused in this region to decide on the optimum area for the construction of the geomagnetic observatory.
Towards a geography of omnivory: Omnivores increase carnivory when sodium is limiting
Authors: Clay Natalie A. , Lehrter Richard J. , Kaspari Michael
Published: September 2017

Towards understanding the geography of omnivory, we tested three hypotheses that predict the proportion of animal tissue consumed: the sodium limitation hypothesis predicts that omnivores increase animal consumption in Na‐poor environments because Na bioaccumulates from plants to predators; thus, heterotrophs are Na‐rich sources. The nitrogen limitation and habitat productivity hypotheses use the same logic to predict more animal consumption in N‐poor and productive environments respectively.

Omnivory is a common trophic strategy, but what determines the balance of plant and animal tissue omnivores consume is relatively unexplored. Most of what we know comes from single populations at local scales. Here we quantitatively test these three hypotheses at a large geographic scale and across 20 species of omnivorous ants.

We tested each hypothesis using N stable isotopes (δ15N) to quantify the degree of carnivory in ant populations in 20 forests that span 12° latitude from Georgia to Maine, USA. We used the difference in δ15N between 20 ant conspecifics in 10 genera between two paired forests (10 pairs of 20 forests) that consisted of a coastal and inland forests on the same latitude to determine if the proportion of animal tissue consumed could be predicted based on Na, N or net primary productivity.

Sodium gradients accounted for 18% of the variation in δ15N, 45% if one outlier ant species was omitted. In contrast, the nitrogen limitation and habitat productivity hypotheses, which predict more animal consumption in N‐poor and more productive environments respectively, failed to vary with δ15N.

Our results reveal a geography of omnivory driven in part by access to Na.
Thermodynamically diverse syntrophic aromatic compound catabolism
Authors: Nobu Masaru Konishi , Narihiro Takashi , Liu Miaomiao , Kuroda Kyohei , Mei Ran , Liu Wen‐Tso
Published: September 2017

Specialized organotrophic Bacteria ‘syntrophs’ and methanogenic Archaea ‘methanogens’ form a unique metabolic interaction to accomplish cooperative mineralization of organic compounds to CH4 and CO2. Due to challenges in cultivation of syntrophs, mechanisms for how their organotrophic catabolism circumvents thermodynamic restrictions remain unclear. In this study, we investigate two communities hosting diverse syntrophic aromatic compound metabolizers (Syntrophus, Syntrophorhabdus, Pelotomaculum and an uncultivated Syntrophorhabdacaeae member) to uncover their catabolic diversity and flexibility. Although syntrophs have been generally presumed to metabolize aromatic compounds to acetate, CO2, H2 and formate, combined metagenomics and metatranscriptomics show that uncultured syntrophs utilize unconventional alternative metabolic pathways in situ producing butyrate, cyclohexanecarboxylate and benzoate as catabolic byproducts. In addition, we also find parallel utilization of diverse H2 and formate generating pathways to facilitate interactions with partner methanogens. Based on thermodynamic calculations, these pathways may enable syntrophs to combat thermodynamic restrictions. In addition, when fed with specific substrates (i.e., benzoate, terephthalate or trimellitate), each syntroph population expresses different pathways, suggesting ecological diversification among syntrophs. These findings suggest we may be drastically underestimating the biochemical capabilities, strategies and diversity of syntrophic bacteria thriving at the thermodynamic limit.
Needle and syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy for preventing HCV transmission among people who inject drugs: findings from a Cochrane Review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Platt Lucy , Minozzi Silvia , Reed Jennifer , Vickerman Peter , Hagan Holly , French Clare , Jordan Ashly , Degenhardt Louisa , Hope Vivian , Hutchinson Sharon , Maher Lisa , Palmateer Norah , Taylor Avril , Bruneau Julie , Hickman Matthew
Published: September 2017

Aims

To estimate the effects of needle and syringe programmes (NSP) and opioid substitution therapy (OST), alone or in combination, for preventing acquisition of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in people who inject drugs (PWID).

Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis. Bibliographic databases were searched for studies measuring concurrent exposure to current OST (within the last 6 months) and/or NSP and HCV incidence among PWID. High NSP coverage was defined as regular NSP attendance or ≥ 100% coverage (receiving sufficient or greater number of needles and syringes per reported injecting frequency). Studies were assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias in non‐randomized studies tool. Random‐effects models were used in meta‐analysis.

Results

We identified 28 studies (n = 6279) in North America (13), United Kingdom (five), Europe (four), Australia (five) and China (one). Studies were at moderate (two), serious (17) critical (seven) and non‐assessable risk of bias (two). Current OST is associated with 50% [risk ratio (RR) =0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.40–0.63] reduction in HCV acquisition risk, consistent across region and with low heterogeneity (I2 = 0, P = 0.889). Weaker evidence was found for high NSP coverage (RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.39–1.61) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 77%, P = 0.002). After stratifying by region, high NSP coverage in Europe was associated with a 56% reduction in HCV acquisition risk (RR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.24–0.80) with low heterogeneity (I2 = 12.3%, P = 0.337), but not in North America (RR = 1.58, I2 = 89.5%, P = < 0.001). Combined OST/NSP is associated with a 74% reduction in HCV acquisition risk (RR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.07–0.89, I2 = 80% P = 0.007). According to Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria, the evidence on OST and combined OST/NSP is low quality, while NSP is very low.

Conclusions

Opioid substitution therapy reduces risk of hepatitis C acquisition and is strengthened in combination with needle and syringe programmes (NSP). There is weaker evidence for the impact of needle syringe programmes alone, although stronger evidence that high coverage is associated with reduced risk in Europe.
Stable Control of Physiological Parameters, But Not Infection, in Preterm Lambs Maintained on Ex Vivo Uterine Environment Therapy
Authors: Miura Yuichiro , Usuda Haruo , Watanabe Shimpei , Woodward Eleanor , Saito Masatoshi , Musk Gabrielle C. , Kallapur Suhas G. , Sato Shinichi , Kitanishi Ryuta , Matsuda Tadashi , Newnham John P. , Stock Sarah J. , Kemp Matthew W.
Published: September 2017

Ex vivo uterine environment (EVE) therapy is an experimental neonatal intensive care strategy wherein gas exchange is performed by membranous oxygenators attached to the umbilical vessels. Our aim was to assess the ability of a newly refined EVE system to maintain key physiological parameters in preterm lambs within optimal ranges for 48 h. EVE group; n = 6: Preterm lambs were delivered under general anesthesia at 115 ± 2 days of gestational age. Animals were submerged in a bath of artificial amniotic fluid on EVE therapy for 48 h. Physiological parameters were monitored in real‐time over the length of the experiment. Control group; n = 11: Ewes carrying a single fetus (115 ± 2 days of gestational age) underwent recovery surgery to allow placement of a fetal carotid artery catheter. Fetuses received an infusion of sterile saline only. After euthanasia, EVE and Control group fetuses underwent necroscopy to perform static pressure–volume curves and for sampling of lung and cord blood plasma for molecular analyses. Five out of six fetuses in the EVE group completed the study period with key physiological variables remaining within their respective reference ranges for the duration of the 48 h study. Bacteremia was identified in four out of five EVE fetuses, and was associated with a systemic inflammatory response. Using our refined EVE therapy platform, preterm lambs were maintained in a stable physiological condition for 48 h. These findings represent a significant advance over earlier work with this system; however, the identification of bacteremia and a fetal inflammatory response suggests that further refinement to the EVE therapy platform is required.
Is Multiple Overlapping Uncovered Stents Technique Suitable for Aortic Aneurysm Repair?
Authors: Yeow Siang Lin , Leo Hwa Liang
Published: September 2017

A computational fluid dynamic model to assess the impact of flow‐diverter device on intra‐aneurysmal flow in complex aortic aneurysm from the viewpoint of hemodynamics is presented. The aim of this study is to investigate the hemodynamic effects of an endovascular flow‐diverter technique using multiple overlapping uncovered stents (MOUS) in the treatment of complex aortic aneurysm involving side branch. The placement of porous barrier such as MOUS across the aneurysm alters the blood flow pattern in the aneurysm sac. Subsequently, flow diversion effect creates a natural hemodynamic environment to promote aneurysm thrombosis, thus stabilizing the aneurysm. The study revealed that intra‐aneurysmal flow was reduced and low time average wall shear stress (TAWSS), high relative residence time (RRT), and high oscillatory shear index (OSI) regions were observed in the aneurysm sac. Three to four MOUS stents produced the best hemodynamic environment for the formation of thrombus, with saccular aneurysm performing better than fusiform aneurysm from the viewpoint of hemodynamics. A result also revealed that flow in the branch vessel was not compromised suggesting the capacity of preserving patency of branch vessels while at the same time stabilizing the aneurysm. Based on the hemodynamic performance of this study coupled with existing reported clinical studies, deploying three to four MOUS stents is a feasible solution to treat aneurysm with side branch, favorably for saccular shape aneurysm.
Design and Development of Novel Transcatheter Bicaval Valves in the Interventional Treatment of Tricuspid Regurgitation
Authors: Ismail Munirah , Kabinejadian Foad , Nguyen Yen Ngoc , Tay Edgar Lik Wui , Leo Hwa Liang
Published: September 2017

The concept of heterotopic implantation of transcatheter tricuspid valve is new and has shown promising results thus far. While the Reynolds shear stress values measured in the vicinity of this valve are relatively low, the values at some time points are higher than the threshold of platelet activation. Hence, in this study, we aim to reduce these values with an innovative stent design. It was shown that the Reynolds shear stress values measured were lower than those of valves made of generic stent design and the maximum Reynolds shear stress values in the vicinity of the valves was very low (∼10 dynes/cm2). The results also depicted the interesting flow phenomenon of this non‐physiological treatment approach. Thus, this study has shown that bicaval valves could potentially be considered as a minimally invasive option to treat tricuspid regurgitation and valve design improvements could reduce the flow disturbances that were observed.
Co‐administration of cyclosporine and ticagrelor may lead to a higher exposure to cyclosporine: a case report of a 49‐year‐old man
Authors: van Sloten Thomas T. , de Klaver Paul A. G. , van den Wall Bake A. Warmold L.
Published: September 2017

Adverse Event

A drug interaction leading to higher exposure to cyclosporine.

Drugs Implicated

Cyclosporine and ticagrelor.

The Patient

A 49‐year‐old man with a stable renal graft, managed with cyclosporine with stable trough blood concentrations for several years, was treated with ticagrelor for unstable angina pectoris.

Evidence That Links the Drug to the Event

The timeline was consistent with the appearance of an interaction, the interaction was confirmed by an increase in trough concentration of cyclosporine, and there were no alternative causes that by themselves could have caused the increase in cyclosporine exposure.

Management

Cessation of ticagrelor.

Mechanism

Inhibition of CYP3A4 and P‐glycoprotein by ticagrelor.

Implications for Therapy

Clinicians should be aware of this potential interaction as ticagrelor is frequently prescribed in individuals using cyclosporine. Close monitoring of cyclosporine serum concentrations is warranted to avoid overdosing of cyclosporine. A pharmacokinetic study is needed to further examine the probable interaction between cyclosporine and ticagrelor.
An anti‐racism methodology: The Native Sons and Daughters and racism against Asians in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Baird Ian G.
Published: September 2017

Key Messages

It is important to develop methodologies to counter white supremacy and racism against Asians.

The Native Sons and Daughters of British Columbia were leading organizations engaged in Asian racism during the 20th century.

The production of knowledge associated with better understanding past racism against Asians can be useful for countering a present‐day increase in racism against Asians in British Columbia and beyond.
Novel spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia due to UFSP2 gene mutation
Authors: Di Rocco M. , Rusmini M. , Caroli F. , Madeo A. , Bertamino M. , Marre‐Brunenghi G. , Ceccherini I.
Published: September 2017

Beukes hip dysplasia is an autosomal dominant disease which has to date been described only in a large South African family of Dutch origin. The patients presented with progressive epiphyseal dysplasia limited to femoral capital epiphysis and their height was not significantly reduced. A unique variant of the ubiquitin‐fold modifier 1 (Ufm1)‐specific peptidase 2 (UFSP2) gene (c.868T>C) has been reported in all individuals from Beukes family with clinical and radiological diagnosis of Beukes hip dysplasia. Three individuals, propositus, mother, and grandmother, presented with short stature, joint pain, genu vara and a novel spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia involving epiphyses predominantly at hips, but also at knees, ankles, wrists and hands, associated with variable degrees of metaphysis and spine involvement. Exome sequencing allowed us to identify the heterozygous variant c.1277A>C of the UFSP2 gene, leading to the missense change p.D426A, in all 3 patients. This mutation is predicted as damaging and, similarly to the mutation originally described in the Beukes family (p. Y290H), directly affects one of the catalytic residues participating in the active site of the protein. This supports the novel notion that loss of catalytic UFSP2 activity, observed in association with different mutants and already experimentally proven in vitro, may have different clinical outcomes.
mTOR mutations in Smith‐Kingsmore syndrome: Four additional patients and a review
Authors: Gordo G. , Tenorio J. , Arias P. , Santos‐Simarro F. , García‐Miñaur S. , Moreno J.C. , Nevado J. , Vallespin E. , Rodriguez‐Laguna L. , de Mena R. , Dapia I. , Palomares‐Bralo M. , del Pozo Á. , Ibañez K. , Silla J.C. , Barroso E. , Ruiz‐Pérez V.L. , Martinez‐Glez V. , Lapunzina P.
Published: September 2017

Smith‐Kingsmore syndrome (SKS) OMIM #616638, also known as MINDS syndrome (ORPHA 457485), is a rare autosomal dominant disorder reported so far in 23 patients. SKS is characterized by intellectual disability, macrocephaly/hemi/megalencephaly, and seizures. It is also associated with a pattern of facial dysmorphology and other non‐neurological features. Germline or mosaic mutations of the mTOR gene have been detected in all patients. The mTOR gene is a key regulator of cell growth, cell proliferation, protein synthesis and synaptic plasticity, and the mTOR pathway (PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR) is highly regulated and critical for cell survival and apoptosis. Mutations in different genes in this pathway result in known rare diseases implicated in hemi/megalencephaly with epilepsy, as the tuberous sclerosis complex caused by mutations in TSC1 and TSC2, or the PIK3CA‐related overgrowth spectrum (PROS). We here present 4 new cases of SKS, review all clinical and molecular aspects of this disorder, as well as some characteristics of the patients with only brain mTOR somatic mutations.
Direct current stimulation modulates the excitability of the sensory and motor fibres in the human posterior tibial nerve, with a long‐lasting effect on the H‐reflex
Authors: Bolzoni Francesco , Esposti Roberto , Bruttini Carlo , Zenoni Giuseppe , Jankowska Elzbieta , Cavallari Paolo
Published: September 2017

Several studies demonstrated that transcutaneous direct current stimulation (DCS) may modulate central nervous system excitability. However, much less is known about how DC affects peripheral nerve fibres. We investigated the action of DCS on motor and sensory fibres of the human posterior tibial nerve, with supplementary analysis in acute experiments on rats. In forty human subjects, electric pulses at the popliteal fossa were used to elicit either M‐waves or H‐reflexes in the Soleus, before (15 min), during (10 min) and after (30 min) DCS. Cathodal or anodal current (2 mA) was applied to the same nerve. Cathodal DCS significantly increased the H‐reflex amplitude; the post‐polarization effect lasted up to ~ 25 min after the termination of DCS. Anodal DCS instead significantly decreased the reflex amplitude for up to ~ 5 min after DCS end. DCS effects on M‐wave showed the same polarity dependence but with considerably shorter after‐effects, which never exceeded 5 min. DCS changed the excitability of both motor and sensory fibres. These effects and especially the long‐lasting modulation of the H‐reflex suggest a possible rehabilitative application of DCS that could be applied either to compensate an altered peripheral excitability or to modulate the afferent transmission to spinal and supraspinal structures. In animal experiments, DCS was applied, under anaesthesia, to either the exposed peroneus nerve or its Dorsal Root, and its effects closely resembled those found in human subjects. They validate therefore the use of the animal models for future investigations on the DCS mechanisms.
More than constipation – bowel symptoms in Parkinson's disease and their connection to gut microbiota
Authors: Mertsalmi T. H. , Aho V. T. E. , Pereira P. A. B. , Paulin L. , Pekkonen E. , Auvinen P. , Scheperjans F.
Published: September 2017

Background and purpose

The majority of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms of which constipation is considered the most prominent. Recently, in addition to constipation, a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was also found to be associated with increased PD risk. Gut microbiota alterations have been reported in IBS and recently also in PD. IBS‐like bowel symptoms in PD and their possible connection to other non‐motor symptoms and faecal microbiota were assessed.

Methods

This case−control study compared 74 PD patients with 75 controls without any signs of parkinsonism or potential premotor symptoms. IBS‐like symptoms were assessed using the Rome III questionnaire. The non‐motor symptoms were assessed using the Non‐Motor Symptoms Questionnaire and Non‐Motor Symptom Scale. Faecal microbiota were assessed by pyrosequencing of the V1–V3 regions of the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene.

Results

Symptoms that were IBS‐like were significantly more prevalent in PD patients than in controls (24.3% vs. 5.3%; P = 0.001). Criteria for functional constipation were met by 12.2% of PD patients and 6.7% of controls (P = 0.072). PD patients with IBS‐like symptoms had more non‐motor symptoms and a lower faecal abundance of Prevotella bacteria than those without IBS‐like symptoms.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that PD patients may suffer from colonic dysfunction beyond pure constipation. Therefore, a more comprehensive assessment of bowel symptoms could provide valuable information. The lower abundance of Prevotella bacteria in PD patients with IBS‐like symptoms suggests that the microbiota−gut−brain axis may be implicated in the gastrointestinal dysfunction of PD patients.
States and rates: Complementary approaches to developing flow‐ecology relationships
Authors: Wheeler Kit , Wenger Seth J. , Freeman Mary C.
Published: September 2017

In recognition of the influence of flow on riverine habitats and organisms, stream ecologists have devoted considerable effort to the development of quantitative predictive relationships describing ecological responses to flow variability, i.e. flow‐ecology relationships.

Methods used to generate flow‐ecology relationships can be thought of as a continuum bookended by pure states approaches on one end and by rates approaches on the other. In pure states approaches, the ecological response is a snapshot of a condition or property (i.e. a state) derived from a single measurement in time. In contrast, ecological responses in rates approaches reflect temporal change (i.e. a rate) and are thus reliant on repeated measurements made over time.

Here, we elaborate on the fundamental characteristics of different approaches (pure states, rates and an intermediate approach we call repeated states) for generating flow‐ecology relationships, examine how commonly the different approaches are used in the flow‐ecology literature, conduct an independent analysis to illustrate the different outcomes achieved by applying repeated‐states and rates approaches using a dataset for stream fish diversity in relation to flow magnitude, and identify some of the different ways ecologists are applying rates approaches in flow ecology.

Our literature review revealed that repeated‐states approaches (53% of reviewed studies) were used far more commonly than either pure states (19%) or rates (12%) approaches to generate flow‐ecology relationships. The remaining hybrid studies (17%) used both state and rate responses, and thus also relied on repeated measurements over time.

Despite frequent collection of data suitable for rates approaches, flow‐ecology relationships have generally been developed using states approaches that relate changes in ecological states to different long‐term average flow conditions, rather than to specific flow sequences over much shorter time intervals. Such flow‐ecology relationships cannot generate temporally specific predictions of ecological responses to changing flow conditions (i.e. the expected change in state following a specific flow sequence), nor can they describe demographic processes underlying observed changes. While there are different scenarios in which a pure or repeated‐states approach would be useful, more frequent use of rates approaches would increase our ability to test flow‐ecology hypotheses and our mechanistic understanding of flow‐ecology relationships.
Helicobacter pylori infection in children
Authors: Kalach Nicolas , Bontems Patrick , Raymond Josette
Published: September 2017

Helicobacter pylori infection in children differs from that in adults, from the point of view of epidemiology, host response, clinical features, related diseases, and diagnosis, as well as treatment strategies.

The prevalence of H. pylori infection, in both children and adults, is decreasing in the Western World as well as in some developing countries, which contrasts with the increase in childhood asthma and allergic diseases. Recurrent abdominal pain is not specific during H. pylori infection in children. The role of H. pylori infection and failure to thrive, children's growth, type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and celiac disease remains controversial.

The main initial diagnosis is based on upper digestive endoscopy with biopsy‐based methods. Nodular gastritis may be a pathognomonic endoscopic finding of childhood H. pylori infection. The infection eradication control is based on validated noninvasive tests.

The main cause of treatment failure of H. pylori infection is its clarithromycin resistance. We recommend standard antibiotic susceptibility testing of H. pylori in pediatric patients prior to the initiation of eradication therapy. H. pylori treatment in children should be based on an evaluation of the rate of eradication in the local population, a systematic use of a treatment adapted to the susceptibility profile and a treatment compliance greater than 90%. The last meta‐analysis in children did not show an advantage for sequential therapy when compared to a 14‐day triple therapy.

Finally, the high rate of antibiotic resistance responsible for therapy failure in recent years justifies the necessity of a novel vaccine to prevent H. pylori infection in children.
Urolithiasis is prevalent and associated with reduced bone mineral density in β‐thalassaemia major
Authors: Wong Phillip , Milat Frances , Fuller Peter J. , Kerr Peter G. , Doery James C. G. , Oh Danielle H. , Jackson Dana , Gillespie Matthew T. , Bowden Donald K. , Pasricha Sant‐Rayn , Lau Ken K.
Published: September 2017

Asymptomatic urolithiasis is common and of mixed composition in patients with β‐thalassaemia major. Twenty‐seven subjects were imaged using dual‐energy computer tomography to determine the presence and composition of urolithiasis. The prevalence of urolithiasis was 59% and affected patients generally had multiple stones, often with more than one component: struvite (33%), calcium oxalate (31%) and cystine (22%). Hypercalciuria was present in 78% of subjects and calcium‐containing urolithiasis was associated with reduced femoral neck Z scores.
Impact of physical activity on obesity and lipid profile of adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Gawlik Krystyna , Zwierzchowska Anna , Celebańska Diana
Published: September 2017

Introduction

This study assessed overweight, obesity and lipid profiles in adults with intellectual disability and compared these metrics with their physical activity.

Materials and Method

Basic somatic parameters, lipid profile and weekly physical activity were examined in 27 adults with moderate intellectual disability. Chi‐square independence tests and Pearson's linear correlation coefficients were used.

Results

The participants had excess body mass, excess body fat and abdominal obesity. Very high positive correlations were shown between body mass index and both waist circumference and %fat. The lipid profiles were more favourable in the general population. Healthy levels of physical activity were observed in 8% of women and 26% of men. A high negative correlation was found between physical activity and body mass index.

Conclusion

The study group was characterized by excess body mass and insufficient levels of physical activity. Body mass index and waist circumference are sufficient indicators for identifying obesity in adults with intellectual disability.
The Religious Foundations of the European Crisis
Authors: Hien Josef
Published: September 2017

There has been much talk about ordoliberalism recently. Scholars and the press identify it as the dominant economic instruction sheet for Germany's European crisis politics. However, by analyzing ordoliberalism only as an economic theory, the debate downplays that ordoliberalism is also an ethical theory, with strong roots in Protestant social thought. It is this rooting in Protestant social thought that makes Ordoliberalism incompatible with the socioeconomic ethics of most of the European crisis countries, whose ethics originate in Catholic and Orthodox social thought. This divergence is the source of a crisis of understanding between European nations and hinders a collective response to the Euro crisis.
Patients' perceptions and experiences of patient‐centred care in dietetic consultations
Authors: Sladdin I. , Chaboyer W. , Ball L.
Published: September 2017

Background

Patient‐centred care (PCC) is essential to quality healthcare. However, there is a paucity of research on PCC in dietetics, particularly regarding patients' experiences and perspectives of PCC. We aimed to enhance our understanding of PCC in dietetics by exploring patients' perceptions and experiences of PCC in individual dietetic consultations.

Methods

The present study used qualitative methods, situated in a constructivist–interpretivist paradigm. Maximum variation purposive sampling was used to recruit English speaking adult participants who had participated in ≥1 dietetic consultations for nutrition care. Individual semi‐structured interviews explored participants' perceptions and experiences of PCC in dietetic consultations. Data were analysed thematically.

Results

Eleven patients were interviewed between September and November 2016. Four overarching themes emerged: (i) fostering and maintaining caring relationships; (ii) delivering individualised care; (iii) enabling patient involvement; and (iv) taking control of one's own health.

Conclusions

PCC is important to patients. Thus, there is opportunity for dietitians to enhance the care they provide by adopting patient‐centred practices. As the first study of its kind, these findings can inform future dietetic practice, education and research by contributing patients' perspectives of PCC. By understanding patients' unique needs and preferences, dietitians can better align their practice with a patient‐centred approach. Furthermore, these findings are useful for informing future dietetic research and education.
Hormonal and genetic factors interact to control aromatase expression in the developing brain
Authors: Cisternas C. D. , Garcia‐Segura L. M. , Cambiasso M. J.
Published: September 2017

Brain expression of the enzyme P450‐aromatase has been studied extensively. Subsequent to the aromatisation hypothesis having established brain aromatase as a key factor to convert gonadal testosterone to oestradiol, several studies have investigated the regulation of aromatase during the critical period of brain sexual differentiation. We review previous and recent findings concerning regulation of aromatase. The role of gonadal hormones, sex chromosome genes and neurosteroids is analysed in terms of their contribution to aromatase expression, as well as implications for the organisational effect of steroids during development.
Parental decisions following prenatal diagnosis of sex chromosome aneuploidy in Hong Kong
Authors: So Po Lam , Cheng Kwun Yue Yvonne , Cheuk Kwan Yiu , Chiu Wan Kam , Mak Shui Lam , Mok Sau Lan , Lo Tsz Kin , Yung Wai Kuen , Lo Fai Man , Chung Hon Yin Brian , Kan Sik Yau Anita , Lee Chin Peng , Tang Hoi Yin Mary
Published: September 2017

Aim

According to the published work, pregnancy termination rates due to prenatal diagnosis of fetal sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCA) vary widely. Some potentially modifiable and non‐modifiable factors have been reported to be associated with parental decision. This study aimed to evaluate the rate of pregnancy termination for fetal SCA and the factors influencing parents' decisions in Hong Kong.

Methods

This was a 21‐year retrospective cohort study of parents' decisions following prenatal diagnosis of SCA. Univariate and multivariate analyses for the association between demographic factors, prenatal factors, or counseling provided and decision‐making were conducted.

Results

The study included 399 pregnancies with prenatal diagnosis of SCA and the overall termination rate was 55.6% (91.7%, 48.0%, 23.4%, 4.8%, and 22.7% for 45,X, 47,XXY, 47,XXX, 47,XYY, and mosaicism, respectively). Pregnancies with ultrasound abnormalities were associated with higher termination rates than pregnancies with normal ultrasound findings (91.3% vs 28.3%, P < 0.0001). From multivariate regression analysis on 226 pregnancies with normal ultrasound examination, a higher likelihood to terminate was found in pregnancies affected by 45,X and 47,XXY (adjusted odds ratio, 4.72, P < 0.0001). Increased maternal age and history of infertility were associated with lower likelihood to terminate (adjusted odds ratio, 0.9, P = 0.012; and 5.12, P = 0.038, respectively). The pregnancy termination rate declined over time.

Conclusion

A significant correlation was found between the termination of SCA‐affected pregnancy and the presence of fetal sonographic abnormalities, type of SCA, maternal age, and presence of infertility.
Null Hypothesis Significance Testing and p Values
Authors: Travers Jason C. , Cook Bryan G. , Cook Lysandra
Published: September 2017

p values are commonly reported in quantitative research, but are often misunderstood and misinterpreted by research consumers. Our aim in this article is to provide special educators with guidance for appropriately interpreting p values, with the broader goal of improving research consumers’ understanding and interpretation of research findings. Specifically, we discuss null hypothesis significance testing, describe what p values mean and how they are reported, describe some common misconceptions of p values, and provide two examples from the research literature to illustrate how p values are used in the field. Our take‐home message is that p values indicate how likely study results are to occur if the null hypothesis is true, and that p values should be cautiously interpreted.
Evolutionary conservation of structure and function of the UVR8 photoreceptor from the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha and the moss Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Soriano Gonzalo , Cloix Catherine , Heilmann Monika , Núñez‐Olivera Encarnación , Martínez‐Abaigar Javier , Jenkins Gareth I.
Published: September 2017

The ultraviolet‐B (UV‐B) photoreceptor UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8) mediates photomorphogenic responses to UV‐B in Arabidopsis through differential gene expression, but little is known about UVR8 in other species. Bryophyte lineages were the earliest diverging embryophytes, thus being the first plants facing the UV‐B regime typical of land. We therefore examined whether liverwort and moss species have functional UVR8 proteins and whether they are regulated similarly to Arabidopsis UVR8.

We examined the expression, dimer/monomer status, cellular localisation and function of Marchantia polymorpha and Physcomitrella patens UVR8 in experiments with bryophyte tissue and expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP)–UVR8 fusions in Nicotiana leaves and transgenic Arabidopsis.

P. patens expresses two UVR8 genes that encode functional proteins, whereas the single M. polymorpha UVR8 gene expresses two transcripts by alternative splicing that encode functional UVR8 variants. P. patens UVR8 proteins form dimers that monomerise and accumulate in the nucleus following UV‐B exposure, similar to Arabidopsis UVR8, but M. polymorpha UVR8 has weaker dimers and the proteins appear more constitutively nuclear.

We conclude that liverwort and moss species produce functional UVR8 proteins. Although there are differences in expression and regulation of P. patens and M. polymorpha UVR8, the mechanism of UVR8 action is strongly conserved in evolution.
Transgenic soybeans expressing betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase from Atriplex canescens show increased drought tolerance
Authors: Qin Di , Zhao Cui‐Lan , Liu Xiao‐Yi , Wang Pi‐Wu
Published: September 2017

Betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase (BADH) catalyses the oxidation of betaine aldehyde to glycine betaine. To test whether BADH can increase drought tolerance in soybean (Glycine max), BADH from the drought‐tolerant plant Atriplex canescens (AcBADH) was introduced into the soybean cultivar ‘Jinong 17’ by Agrobacterium‐mediated cotyledon transformation. Eight independent AcBADH transgenic lines were subjected to drought stress. As expected, AcBADH was expressed in transgenic soybean leaves and not in the control. In transgenic plants, AcBADH expression increased following drought treatment. Under osmotic stress, the germination index was 6%–17% higher in the transgenic lines than in the control. Using a randomized block design, we measured drought‐related physiological indices and yield traits. The proline content in AcBADH transgenic soybeans increased by 12.5%–16.6%, peroxidase activity increased by 1%–7%, dry weight of plant increased by 15%–20% and malondialdehyde contents decreased by 1.5%–13%, compared to the control. Under drought conditions, two of the eight transgenic soybean lines had higher yields than the control, with increases of 7.59%–8.84%. Therefore, transgenic expression of AcBADH may provide a promising strategy to engineer drought tolerance without adverse consequences.
Molecular dissection of nuptial gifts in divergent strains of Ostrinia moths
Authors: Al‐Wathiqui Nooria , Lewis Sara M. , Dopman Erik B.
Published: September 2017

Seminal fluid proteins (SFPs) produced in the male accessory glands and ejaculatory duct are subject to strong sexual selection, often evolve rapidly and therefore may play a key role in reproductive isolation and species formation. However, little is known about reproductive proteins for species in which males transfer ejaculate to females using a spermatophore package. By combining RNA sequencing and proteomics, we characterize putative SFPs, identify proteins transferred in the male spermatophore and identify candidate genes contributing to a one‐way gametic incompatibility between Z and E strains of the European corn borer moth Ostrinia nubilalis. We find that the accessory glands and ejaculatory duct secrete over 200 highly expressed gene products, including peptidases, peptidase regulators and odourant‐binding proteins. A comparison between Ostrinia strains reveals that accessory gland and ejaculatory duct sequences with hormone degradation and peptidase activity are among the most extremely differentially expressed. However, most spermatophore peptides lack reproductive tissue bias or canonical secretory signal motifs and aproximately one‐quarter may be produced elsewhere before being sequestered by the male accessory glands during spermatophore production. In addition, most potential gene candidates for postmating reproductive isolation do not meet standard criteria for predicted SFPs and almost three‐quarters are novel, suggesting that both postmating sexual interactions and gametic isolation likely involve molecular products beyond traditionally recognized SFPs.
Against Radical Quantum Ontologies
Authors: Emery Nina
Published: September 2017

Some theories of quantum mechanical phenomena endorse wave function realism, according to which the physical space we inhabit is very different from the physical space we appear to inhabit. In this paper I explore an argument against wave function realism that appeals to a type of simplicity that, although often overlooked, plays a crucial role in scientific theory choice. The type of simplicity in question is simplicity of fit between the way a theory says the world is and the way the world appears to be. This argument can be understood as one way of spelling out the so‐called “incredulous stare objection” that is sometimes leveled against surprising metaphysical theories.