bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective evaluation of all recorded horse race starts in Switzerland during a four year period focusing on discipline‐specific risk factors for clinical events
Authors: Schweizer C. , Ramseyer A. , Gerber V. , Christen G. , Burger D. , Wohlfender F. D.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Racetrack injuries are of welfare concern and the prevention of injuries is an important goal in many racing jurisdictions. Over the years this has led to more detailed recording of clinical events on racecourses. However, risk factor analyses of clinical events at race meetings have not been previously reported for Switzerland.

Objectives

To identify discipline‐specific factors that influence the occurrence of clinical events during race meetings with the ultimate aim of improving the monitoring and safety of racetracks in Switzerland and optimising racehorse welfare.

Study design

Retrospective study of horse race data collected by the Swiss horse racing association.

Methods

All race starts (n = 17,670, including 6198 flat, 1257 obstacle and 10,215 trot race starts) recorded over a period of 4 years (2009–2012) were analysed in multivariable mixed effect logistic regression models including horse and racecourse related data. The models were designed to identify discipline‐specific factors influencing the occurrence of clinical events on racecourses in Switzerland.

Results

Factors influencing the risk of clinical events during races were different for each discipline. The risk of a clinical event in trot racing was lower for racing on a Porphyre sand track than on grass tracks. Horses whose driver was also their trainer had an approximately 2‐fold higher risk for clinical events. In obstacle races, longer distances (2401–3300 m and 3301–5400 m, respectively) had a protective effect compared with racing over shorter distances. In flat racing, 5 racecourses reported significantly fewer clinical events. In all 3 disciplines, finishing 8th place or later was associated with clinical events.

Conclusions

Changes in management that aim to improve the safety and welfare of racehorses, such as racetrack adaptations, need to be individualised for each discipline.
Deregulation of mitochondrial functions provoked by long‐chain fatty acid accumulating in long‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase and mitochondrial permeability transition deficiencies in rat heart – mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening as a potential contributing pathomechanism of cardiac alterations in these disorders
Authors: Cecatto Cristiane , Hickmann Fernanda H. , Rodrigues Marília D. N. , Amaral Alexandre U. , Wajner Moacir
Published: September 2015

Mitochondrial trifunctional protein and long‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiencies are fatty acid oxidation disorders biochemically characterized by tissue accumulation of long‐chain fatty acids and derivatives, including the monocarboxylic long‐chain 3‐hydroxy fatty acids (LCHFAs) 3‐hydroxytetradecanoic acid (3HTA) and 3‐hydroxypalmitic acid (3HPA). Patients commonly present severe cardiomyopathy for which the pathogenesis is still poorly established. We investigated the effects of 3HTA and 3HPA, the major metabolites accumulating in these disorders, on important parameters of mitochondrial homeostasis in Ca2+‐loaded heart mitochondria. 3HTA and 3HPA significantly decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, the matrix NAD(P)H pool and Ca2+ retention capacity, and also induced mitochondrial swelling. These fatty acids also provoked a marked decrease of ATP production reflecting severe energy dysfunction. Furthermore, 3HTA‐induced mitochondrial alterations were completely prevented by the classical mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) inhibitors cyclosporin A and ADP, as well as by ruthenium red, a Ca2+ uptake blocker, indicating that LCHFAs induced Ca2+‐dependent mPT pore opening. Milder effects only achieved at higher doses of LCHFAs were observed in brain mitochondria, implying a higher vulnerability of heart to these fatty acids. By contrast, 3HTA and docosanoic acids did not change mitochondrial homeostasis, indicating selective effects for monocarboxylic LCHFAs. The present data indicate that the major LCHFAs accumulating in mitochondrial trifunctional protein and long‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiencies induce mPT pore opening, compromising Ca2+ homeostasis and oxidative phosphorylation more intensely in the heart. It is proposed that these pathomechanisms may contribute at least in part to the severe cardiac alterations characteristic of patients affected by these diseases.
Doing more with less: the challenging diagnosis of polymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinoma in incisional biopsy samples
Authors: Sedassari Bruno T , dos Santos Harim T , Pigatti Fernanda M , Martins Mussi Maria C , Tobouti Priscila L , Altemani Albina , Sousa Suzana
Published: September 2015

Aims

The diagnosis of polymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) remains difficult for general pathologists, particularly in cases of small biopsy samples. We aimed to characterize the histopathological spectrum and immunohistochemical aspects by using an accessible immunohistochemical panel of cytoskeletal proteins in limited samples of PLGA.

Methods and results

Forty‐six patients diagnosed with PLGA in incisional biopsies were identified retrospectively. Seventy‐two per cent of patients were women and 28% were men, with a mean age of 55 years. The palate was the most affected site. Grossly, the mean size of the samples was 0.8 cm and 74% of specimens were fragmented. All tumours characteristically displayed the microscopic features of architecturally diverse patterns, infiltrative areas and low‐grade cytology. Neoplastic cells were diffusely positive to cytokeratin (CK) 7, vimentin and S100 protein, but only focally positive to CK14 and negative to α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), thus lacking myoepithelial differentiation.

Conclusions

Microscopic recognition of PLGA is facilitated by a characteristic combination of multiple architectural patterns of growth, infiltration of adjacent tissues and cytological aspects. These features are present even in small biopsy samples. The association of histopathological aspects with CK7, CK14, vimentin, S100 and α‐SMA immunoexpression is helpful in reaching the diagnosis of doubtful cases.
Paediatric chondrosarcomas: a retrospective review of 17 cases
Authors: Gambarotti Marco , Righi Alberto , Picci Piero , Bertoni Franco , Manfrini Marco , Donati Davide M , Dei Tos Angelo P , Vanel Daniel
Published: September 2015

Aims

Chondrosarcoma is primarily a tumour of adulthood and old age. Some studies indicate that survival is worse in paediatric than in adult chondrosarcomas. In view of the rarity of paediatric chondrosarcoma, few large studies are currently available.

Methods and results

We evaluated the clinical, radiological and pathological features of a single institution series of chondrosarcomas presenting in patients younger than 17 years between 1981 and 2014. Seventeen patients with central (10), peripheral (five) and periosteal (two) chondrosarcoma were retrieved. The patients received various treatments according to the dimension, stage and grading of the lesions. Only two tumours, treated with resection, recurred after the first diagnosis, at 11 and 108 months, respectively. All patients but one were alive without disease at the time of the last follow‐up (median: 148 months). The one patient who died of disease 27 months after diagnosis had a grade 2 central chondrosarcoma of the metacarpal bone. He was affected by Maffucci syndrome and developed multiple bone and lung metastases.

Conclusions

Chondrosarcoma in children is rare but does exist, and is not limited to the head and neck region. Our findings do not support the current view that chondrosarcomas are more aggressive in children than in adults.
Fabrication and Characterization of (Mo1‐xNix) (Si1‐xAlx)2 (x = 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1) Alloys
Authors: Song Binbin , Xie Xushuai , Feng Peizhong , Wang Zhang , Liu Zhangsheng , Wang Xiaohong
Published: September 2015

(Mo1‐xNix) (Si1‐xAlx)2 (x = 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1) alloys were prepared using self‐propagating combustion synthesis from Mo, Si, Al, and Ni powders and subsequently hot‐pressed to achieve a high density of above 96.2%. The combustion products were composed of C11b MoSi2 and C40 Mo(Si,Al)2. A systematic shift of diffraction peaks of C11b MoSi2 toward low angles was observed, and C40 Mo(Si,Al)2 diffraction peaks became stronger with increase of alloying elements. The solid‐solution softening and toughening phenomena were observed in (Mo1‐xNix) (Si1‐xAlx)2 alloys. On increasing x from 0.025 to 0.1, the hardness of the alloys decreased from 9.87 to 8.31 GPa, and the fracture toughness increased from 3.79 to 6.48 MPa m1/2.
Performance evaluation of the Sysmex XN‐1000 hematology analyzer in assessment of the white blood cell count differential in pediatric specimens
Authors: Becker P.‐H. , Fenneteau O. , Da Costa L.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

The automated XN‐1000 hematology analyzer enables to perform a blood cell count and a leukocyte differential. When abnormal cells were detected, a flag was generated by the analyzer and a manual microscopic examination of the corresponding blood film was performed.

Methods

We compared the white blood cell differentials provided by the automated hematology analyzer XN‐1000 in a pediatric population (n = 765) with those obtained through microscopic examination by cytologists and those obtained using a previous version of this analyzer, the XE‐2100. Leukocytes count as well as flags sensitivity and specificity was analyzed.

Results

The leukocytes count provided by the analyzer is in good accordance with the differential obtained by manual count in children older than 3 months. The sensitivity for blast detection is 99% and the detection of reactive cells is 63%. The flag specificity remains low (<35%) for blood samples collected from infants between 8 days and 2 years of age, but increases up to 67% thereafter. The results obtained with the XN‐1000 analyzer show an improvement in comparison with those obtained with the XE‐2100 analyzer.

Conclusion

The automated WBC differential provided by the XN‐1000 analyzer in the pediatric setting is accurate, but a meticulous microscopic examination of blood smears remains necessary for infants up to 3 months of age to validate the analyzer flags.
Correlates of Blood Pressure According to Early, On Time, and Late Maturation in Adolescents
Authors: Werneck André O. , Silva Danilo R. P. , Souza Mariana F. , Christofaro Diego G. D. , Tomeleri Crisieli M. , Fernandes Rômulo A. , Ronque Enio R.V. , Coelho‐e‐Silva Manuel J. , Sardinha Luís B. , Cyrino Edilson S.
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of blood pressure (BP) according to somatic maturation in Southern Brazilian adolescents. A total of 1321 adolescents participated in the study (732 girls), aged between 10 and 16 years, enrolled in public schools. The assessment of BP was performed using oscillometric equipment. Measurements of body weight, height, waist circumference, and skinfold thickness were performed. Somatic maturation was estimated by the age at peak height velocity. Behavioral and hereditary variables were obtained using a questionnaire. Early‐maturing adolescents had the highest prevalence of high BP (28%; 95% confidence interval, 24.6–33.5) compared with other maturational groups (P=.003). In late‐maturing adolescents, the variables associated with BP were paternal hypertension (systolic BP: β=4.9; diastolic BP: β=5.3) and early physical activity (systolic BP: β=−4.0; diastolic DBP: β=−3.6). In average‐maturing adolescents, waist circumference (systolic BP: β=0.3), body mass index (diastolic BP: β=0.5), and mother's hypertension (diastolic BP: β=1.8) were positively related to BP. In early‐maturing adolescents, only waist circumference (systolic BP: β=0.3; diastolic BP: β=0.3) was associated with BP. The authors conclude that the prevalence of high BP is greater in adolescents with early maturity and the outcome appears to be related to biological indicators in this group. On the other hand, in late‐maturing adolescents, behavioral and hereditary variables are more related to BP.
Testing for parallel allochronic isolation in lake–stream stickleback
Authors: Hanson D. , Barrett R. D. H. , Hendry A. P.
Published: September 2015

The evolution of reproductive isolation (RI) is a critical step shaping progress towards speciation. In the context of ecological speciation, a critical question is the extent to which specific reproductive barriers important to RI evolve rapidly and predictably in response to environmental differences. Only reproductive barriers with these properties (importance, rapidity, predictability) will drive the diversification of species that are cohesively structured by environment type. One candidate barrier that might exhibit such properties is allochrony, whereby populations breed at different times. We studied six independent lake–stream population pairs of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus Linnaeus, 1758) that are known from genetic studies to show RI. However, the specific reproductive barriers driving this RI have proven elusive, leading to a ‘conundrum of missing reproductive isolation’. We here show that breeding times differ among some of the populations, but not in a consistent manner between lakes and streams. Moreover, the timing differences between lake and stream populations within each pair could account for only a small proportion of total RI measured with neutral genetic markers. Allochrony cannot solve the conundrum of missing reproductive isolation in lake–stream stickleback.
The association between the emergence of cooperative breeding and clutch size
Authors: Koykka C. , Wild G.
Published: September 2015

Previous theoretical work has suggested that smaller brood sizes helped facilitate the emergence of cooperative breeding in birds. However, recent empirical evidence has found no statistically significant difference between the clutch sizes of cooperative breeders and that of noncooperative breeders. One explanation for this finding is that while small clutch sizes may predispose species to cooperative breeding, the emergence of cooperative breeding itself may influence the evolution of clutch size. Here, we develop a set of models using population dynamics to describe how the emergence of cooperative breeding influences clutch size. We find, in contrast to previous theoretical work, that the emergence of cooperative breeding does not necessarily decrease (and under certain conditions may actually increase) clutch size. In particular, clutch size may increase after the emergence of cooperative breeding if helpers – philopatric individuals that assist their breeding relatives – are able to substantially improve breeder fecundity at low costs to their own survival, and if the association between breeder and helper is brief. In many cases, clutch size increases following the emergence of cooperative breeding not because it is optimal for the breeder, but as the result of breeder–helper conflict over resource allocation.
Suppression of the homeobox gene HDTF1 enhances resistance to Verticillium dahliae and Botrytis cinerea in cotton
Authors: Gao Wei , Long Lu , Xu Li , Lindsey Keith , Zhang Xianlong , Zhu Longfu
Published: September 2015

Development of pathogen‐resistant crops, such as fungus‐resistant cotton, has significantly reduced chemical application and improved crop yield and quality. However, the mechanism of resistance to cotton pathogens such as Verticillium dahliae is still poorly understood. In this study, we characterized a cotton gene (HDTF1) that was isolated following transcriptome profiling during the resistance response of cotton to V. dahliae. HDTF1 putatively encodes a homeodomain transcription factor, and its expression was found to be down‐regulated in cotton upon inoculation with V. dahliae and Botrytis cinerea. To characterise the involvement of HDTF1 in the response to these pathogens, we used virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) to generate HDTF1‐silenced cotton. VIGS reduction in HDTF1 expression significantly enhanced cotton plant resistance to both pathogens. HDTF1 silencing resulted in activation of jasmonic acid (JA)‐mediated signaling and JA accumulation. However, the silenced plants were not altered in the accumulation of salicylic acid (SA) or the expression of marker genes associated with SA signaling. These results suggest that HDTF1 is a negative regulator of the JA pathway, and resistance to V. dahliae and B. cinerea can be engineered by activation of JA signaling.
Cocrystal habit engineering to improve drug dissolution and alter derived powder properties
Authors: Serrano Dolores R , O'Connell Peter , Paluch Krzysztof J , Walsh David , Healy Anne Marie
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Cocrystallization of sulfadimidine (SDM) with suitable coformers, such as 4-aminosalicylic acid (4-ASA), combined with changes in the crystal habit can favourably alter its physicochemical properties. The aim of this work was to engineer SDM : 4-ASA cocrystals with different habits to investigate the effect on dissolution, and the derived powder properties of flow and compaction.

Methods

Cocrystals were prepared in a 1 : 1 molar ratio by solvent evaporation using ethanol (habit I) or acetone (habit II), solvent evaporation followed by grinding (habit III) and spray drying (habit IV).

Key findings

Powder X-ray diffraction showed Bragg peak position was the same in all the solid products. The peak intensity varied, indicating different preferred crystal orientation confirmed by SEM micrographs: large prismatic crystals (habit I), large plate-like crystals (habit II), small cube-like crystals (habit III) and microspheres (habit IV). The habit III exhibited the fasted dissolution rate; however, it underwent a polymorphic transition during dissolution. Habits I and IV exhibited the highest Carr's compressibility index, indicating poor flowability. However, habits II and III demonstrated improved flow. Spray drying resulted in cocrystals with improved compaction properties.

Conclusions

Even for cocrystals with poor pharmaceutical characteristics, a habit can be engineered to alter the dissolution, flowability and compaction behaviour.
Polysorbate 80-coated PLGA nanoparticles improve the permeability of acetylpuerarin and enhance its brain-protective effects in rats
Authors: Sun Deqing , Xue Aiying , Zhang Bin , Lou Haiyan , Shi Huanying , Zhang Xiumei
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Acetylpuerarin (AP) is an acetylated derivative of puerarin (PUE). The study aimed to prepare polysorbate 80-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles to improve the permeability of AP across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and enhance its brain-protective effects.

Methods

AP-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (AP-PLGA-NPs) were prepared using a solvent diffusion methodology. The NPs were characterized. The pharmacokinetics, tissue distributions and brain-protective effects of AP-PLGA-NPs were evaluated in animals.

Key findings

AP-PLGA-NPs were successfully prepared with a mean particle size of 145.0 nm and a zeta potential of −14.81 mV. The in-vitro release of AP from the PLGA-NPs showed a biphasic release profile. AP was metabolized into PUE in rats. The AUC0−∞ values of AP and PUE for AP-PLGA-NPs were 2.90- and 2.29-fold as great as those for AP solution, respectively. The values of the relative targeting efficiency in the brain were 2.40 and 2.58 for AP and PUE, and the ratios of peak concentration were 1.91 and 1.89 for AP and PUE, respectively. Compared with the crude drug, AP-PLGA-NPs showed better brain-protective effects in rats.

Conclusion

Polysorbate 80-coated PLGA-NPs can improve the permeability of AP cross the BBB and enhance its brain-protective effects in rats.
Etheliaceae fam. nov. (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta), with a clarification of the generitype of Ethelia and the addition of six novel species from warm waters
Authors: Dixon Kyatt R. , Saunders Gary W. , Schneider Craig W. , Lane Christopher E.
Published: September 2015

Based upon COI‐5P, LSU rDNA, and rbcL sequence data and morphological characteristics, six new members of the noncalcified crustose genus of red algae Ethelia are described in a new family, Etheliaceae (Gigartinales), sister to the recently described Ptilocladiopsidaceae. The novel species are described from subtropical to tropical Atlantic and Indo‐Pacific Ocean basins; E. mucronata sp. nov. and E. denizotii sp. nov. from southern and northern Western Australia respectively, E. wilcei sp. nov. from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands of Australia, E. suluensis sp. nov. from the Philippines, E. umbricola sp. nov. from Bermuda and E. kraftii sp. nov. from Lord Howe Island, Australia. The generitype, Ethelia biradiata, originally reported from the Seychelles, Indian Ocean, is added to the Western Australian flora.
Naftopidil Improves Symptoms in a Rat Model of Tranilast‐Induced Interstitial Cystitis
Authors: SUGAYA Kimio , NISHIJIMA Saori , KADEKAWA Katsumi , ASHITOMI Katsuhiro , UEDA Tomoyuki , YAMAMOTO Hideyuki
Published: September 2015

Objective

The effect of naftopidil on symptoms of tranilast‐induced interstitial cystitis (IC) was examined in rats.

Methods

Thirty‐two female rats were divided into four groups (control, naftopidil, tranilast, and combination groups). Rats in the control group were fed a standard diet, while rats in the naftopidil, tranilast, and combination groups were fed diets containing naftopidil, tranilast, or naftopidil + tranilast, respectively. After 4 weeks of treatment, locomotor activity was measured and continuous cystometry was performed.

Results

During the light period, locomotor activity was lower in the tranilast group than in the control, naftopidil, and combination groups. During the dark period, locomotor activity was higher in the naftopidil group than in the other three groups. The combination group showed higher locomotor activity than the tranilast group, but significantly lower activity than the naftopidil group. Continuous cystometry revealed that the interval between bladder contractions was shorter in the tranilast group than in the other three groups. The combination group also had a shorter interval between contractions than the control group.

Conclusion

Naftopidil improved the symptoms of tranilast‐induced IC, such as reduced locomotor activity due to pelvic pain and a shortened interval between bladder contractions. Therefore, naftopidil may be a potential treatment for IC.
Influence of UGT2B7, CYP3A4, and OPRM1 Gene Polymorphisms on Transdermal Buprenorphine Pain Control in Patients with Critical Lower Limb Ischemia Awaiting Revascularization
Authors: Blanco Francisco , Muriel Clemente , Labrador Jorge , Gonzalez‐Porras Jose R. , Gonzalez‐Sarmiento Rogelio , Lozano Francisco S.
Published: September 2015

Background

Pain control in critical limb ischemia (CLI) varies considerably between individuals.

Objective

To evaluate pharmacogenetically the response to transdermal buprenorphine (BUP‐TTS) in patients with CLI who are awaiting revascularization.

Methods

One hundred and seven patients with CLI were treated with BUP‐TTS. The following were analyzed: (1) pain perception (visual analog scale (VAS) before and 4 days after treatment) and (2) genetics: glucuronosyltransferase (UGT2B7), cytochrome (CYP3A4), and μ‐opioid receptor (OPRM1) gene polymorphisms.

Results

Ninety‐three patients completed the study. The VAS score by the fourth day of analgesia dropped from 6.82 to 3.38 (P < 0.05). The analgesic response to BUP‐TTS was greater in men than in women (P = 0.019). Patients who were AA homozygotes for the CYP3A4 gene showed the best response to analgesic treatment (P = 0.003). The combination of the CYP3A4 gene with UGT2B7 or OPRM1 was favorable to the effect of the CYP3A4 gene (P = 0.045 and P = 0.026, respectively). The combination of UGT2B7 with OPRM1 was ineffective (P = 0.648). The 3 polymorphisms together had no effect on response to treatment (P = 0.461).

Conclusions

BUP‐TTS is efficacious in the control of pain in patients with CLI. The homozygous AA carriers of the CYP3A4 gene respond better to treatment with BUP‐TTS.
Recombinant K28 antigen in ELISA in the diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniosis
Authors: Venturin G. L. , Bragato J. P. , Silva K. L. O. , de Lima V. M. F.
Published: September 2015

Crude total antigen (CTA) from Leishmania infantum and recombinant antigen K39 (rK39) and recombinant antigen K28 (rK28) were compared using an ELISA for the diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniosis (CVL). Forty‐two blood samples from healthy dogs from a nonendemic area and 80 blood samples from an endemic area for dogs with visceral leishmaniosis (VL), confirmed with positive parasitological tests for Leishmania spp., were used in an ELISA. The parasitological diagnosis was chosen as a gold standard. The ELISA with rK28 antigen showed sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 100%, high agreement with CTA and rK39, indicating that the rK28 antigen is useful for ELISA serological diagnosis of CVL.
Asymmetrical deltas below wave base: Insights from the Fraser River Delta, Canada
Authors: Ayranci Korhan , Dashtgard Shahin E.
Published: September 2015

The Fraser River Delta exhibits distinct asymmetry in the sedimentological and neoichnological characteristics of the updrift (south) and downdrift (north) sides of the main distributary channel in water depths below storm‐wave base. The asymmetry is the result of net northward tidal flow. Tides erode sediments across the updrift delta front, whereas the downdrift delta front is an area of net deposition. A submarine channel prevents sand eroded from the updrift delta front from reaching the downdrift delta. The updrift delta front and updrift upper prodelta are composed of sand or heterolithic sand and mud that show a low density of burrowing (Bioturbation Index 0 to 3) and are dominated by simple traces. The downdrift delta front and prodelta, and the updrift lower prodelta are composed of homogeneous muds with significantly higher bioturbation intensities (Bioturbation Index 3 to 6), and a more diverse suite of traces akin to Cruziana Ichnofacies. Using the Fraser River Delta as an archetype and comparing the Fraser to the Amazon River Delta, a preliminary model for deep‐water (below storm‐wave base: ca 20 m) asymmetrical deltas is proposed. Firstly, deep‐water asymmetrical deltas are recognized from sediments deposited below storm‐wave base. At these depths, tidal and ocean currents are more likely to impact sediment transport, but wave processes are less effective as a sediment transport mechanism. Sediments deposited below storm‐wave base in deep‐water asymmetrical deltas will display the following: (i) the updrift delta front will be coarser‐grained (for example, sand‐dominated or heterolithic sand and mud), than the downdrift delta front (for example, mud‐dominated); and (ii) the updrift delta front should show low‐diversity suites of simple burrows. Depending on sedimentation rates, the downdrift delta front and prodelta may show either high diversity suites of traces that are dominated by both complex and simple burrows (low sedimentation rates) or low density and diversity suites akin to the updrift delta front (high sedimentation rates).
Force production during maximal effort bend sprinting: Theory vs reality
Authors: Churchill S. M. , Trewartha G. , Bezodis I. N. , Salo A. I. T.
Published: September 2015

This study investigated whether the “constant limb force” hypothesis can be applied to bend sprinting on an athletics track and to understand how force production influences performance on the bend compared with the straight. Force and three‐dimensional video analyses were conducted on seven competitive athletes during maximal effort sprinting on the bend (radius 37.72 m) and straight. Left step mean peak vertical and resultant force decreased significantly by 0.37 body weight (BW) and 0.21 BW, respectively, on the bend compared with the straight. Right step force production was not compromised in the same way, and some athletes demonstrated substantial increases in these variables on the bend. More inward impulse during left (39.9 ± 6.5 Ns) than right foot contact (24.7 ± 5.8 Ns) resulted in 1.6° more turning during the left step on the bend. There was a 2.3% decrease in velocity from straight to bend for both steps. The constant limb force hypothesis is not entirely valid for maximal effort sprinting on the bend. Also, the force requirements of bend sprinting are considerably different to straight‐line sprinting and are asymmetrical in nature. Overall, bend‐specific strength and technique training may improve performance during this portion of 200‐ and 400‐m races.
Molecular phylogeny of the horse flies: a framework for renewing tabanid taxonomy
Authors: MORITA SHELAH I. , BAYLESS KEITH M. , YEATES DAVID K. , WIEGMANN BRIAN M.
Published: September 2015

Horse flies, family Tabanidae, are the most diverse family‐level clade of bloodsucking insects, but their phylogeny has never been thoroughly explored using molecular data. Most adult female Tabanidae feed on nectar and on the blood of various mammals. Traditional horse fly classification tends towards large heterogeneous taxa, which impede much‐needed taxonomic work. To guide renewed efforts in the systematics of horse flies and their relatives, we assembled a dataset of 110 exemplar species using nucleotide data from four genes—mitochondrial CO1, and nuclear 28S, CAD and AATS. All commonly recognized tribes in Tabanidae are represented, along with outgroups in Tabanomorpha. The phylogeny is reconstructed using Bayesian inference, and divergence times are estimated using Bayesian relaxed clock methods with time constraints from tabanid fossils. Our results show Athericidae strongly supported as the lineage most closely related to Tabanidae, and Pangoniinae and Tabaninae as monophyletic lineages. However, Chrysopsinae is nonmonophyletic, with strong support for both a nonmonophyletic Bouvieromyiini and for Rhinomyzini as sister to Tabaninae. Only the tribes Philolichini, Chrysopsini, Rhinomyzini and Haematopotini are recovered as monophyletic, although Scionini is monophyletic with exclusion of the peculiar genus Goniops Aldrich. Mycteromyia Philippi and Adersia Austen, two enigmatic genera sometimes placed in separate family‐level groups, are recovered inside Pangoniini and Chrysopsini, respectively. Several species‐rich genera are not recovered as monophyletic, including Esenbeckia Rondani, Silvius Meigen, Dasybasis Macquart and Tabanus L. Tabanidae likely originated in the Cretaceous, and all major extant groups were present by the early Palaeogene. This newly revised phylogenetic framework for Tabanidae forms the basis for a new assessment of tabanid diversification and provides context for understanding the evolution of trophic specialization in horse flies.
Direct quantification of energy intake in an apex marine predator suggests physiology is a key driver of migrations
Authors: Whitlock Rebecca E. , Hazen Elliott L. , Walli Andreas , Farwell Charles , Bograd Steven J. , Foley David G. , Castleton Michael , Block Barbara A.
Published: September 2015

Archival tagging indicates physiological constraints on energy intake in wild Pacific bluefin tuna in the California Current.
Nectar uptake in bats using a pumping-tongue mechanism
Authors: Tschapka Marco , Gonzalez-Terrazas Tania P. , Knörnschild Mirjam
Published: September 2015

Bats with grooved tongues show unusual morphological specialization in drinking nectar.
A phylogenomic data-driven exploration of viral origins and evolution
Authors: Nasir Arshan , Caetano-Anollés Gustavo
Published: September 2015

A study of the evolution of the proteomic makeup of cells and viruses using protein structural and functional data.
Biodegradation of the Organic Disulfide 4,4′-Dithiodibutyric Acid by Rhodococcus spp
Authors: Khairy Heba , Wübbeler Jan Hendrik , Steinbüchel Alexander
Published: September 2015

Four
Rhodococcus
spp. exhibited the ability to use 4,4′-dithiodibutyric acid (DTDB) as a sole carbon source for growth. The most important step for the production of a novel polythioester (PTE) using DTDB as a precursor substrate is the initial cleavage of DTDB. Thus, identification of the enzyme responsible for this step was mandatory. Because
Rhodococcus erythropolis
strain MI2 serves as a model organism for elucidation of the biodegradation of DTDB, it was used to identify the genes encoding the enzymes involved in DTDB utilization. To identify these genes, transposon mutagenesis of
R. erythropolis
MI2 was carried out using transposon pTNR-TA. Among 3,261 mutants screened, 8 showed no growth with DTDB as the sole carbon source. In five mutants, the insertion locus was mapped either within a gene coding for a polysaccharide deacetyltransferase, a putative ATPase, or an acetyl coenzyme A transferase, 1 bp upstream of a gene coding for a putative methylase, or 176 bp downstream of a gene coding for a putative kinase. In another mutant, the insertion was localized between genes encoding a putative transcriptional regulator of the TetR family (
noxR
) and an NADH:flavin oxidoreductase (
nox
). Moreover, in two other mutants, the insertion loci were mapped within a gene encoding a hypothetical protein in the vicinity of
noxR
and
nox
. The interruption mutant generated,
R. erythropolis
MI2
nox
Ω
tsr
, was unable to grow with DTDB as the sole carbon source. Subsequently,
nox
was overexpressed and purified, and its activity with DTDB was measured. The specific enzyme activity of Nox amounted to 1.2 ± 0.15 U/mg. Therefore, we propose that Nox is responsible for the initial cleavage of DTDB into 2 molecules of 4-mercaptobutyric acid (4MB).
Formation of Polyphosphate by Polyphosphate Kinases and Its Relationship to Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate) Accumulation in Ralstonia eutropha Strain H16
Authors: Tumlirsch Tony , Sznajder Anna , Jendrossek Dieter
Published: September 2015

A protein (PhaX) that interacted with poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) depolymerase PhaZa1 and with PHB granule-associated phasin protein PhaP2 was identified by two-hybrid analysis. Deletion of
phaX
resulted in an increase in the level of polyphosphate (polyP) granule formation and in impairment of PHB utilization in nutrient broth-gluconate cultures. A procedure for enrichment of polyP granules from cell extracts was developed. Twenty-seven proteins that were absent in other cell fractions were identified in the polyP granule fraction by proteome analysis. One protein (A2437) harbored motifs characteristic of type 1 polyphosphate kinases (PPK1s), and two proteins (A1212, A1271) had PPK2 motifs.
In vivo
colocalization with polyP granules was confirmed by expression of C- and N-terminal fusions of enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (eYFP) with the three polyphosphate kinases (PPKs). Screening of the genome DNA sequence for additional proteins with PPK motifs revealed one protein with PPK1 motifs and three proteins with PPK2 motifs. Construction and subsequent expression of C- and N-terminal fusions of the four new PPK candidates with eYFP showed that only A1979 (PPK2 motif) colocalized with polyP granules. The other three proteins formed fluorescent foci near the cell pole (apart from polyP) (A0997, B1019) or were soluble (A0226). Expression of the
Ralstonia eutropha ppk
(

ppk
Reu

) genes in an
Escherichia coli
Δ
ppk
background and construction of a set of single and multiple chromosomal deletions revealed that both A2437 (PPK1a) and A1212 (PPK2c) contributed to polyP granule formation. Mutants with deletion of both genes were unable to produce polyP granules. The formation and utilization of PHB and polyP granules were investigated in different chromosomal backgrounds.
A Large Set of Newly Created Interspecific Saccharomyces Hybrids Increases Aromatic Diversity in Lager Beers
Authors: Mertens Stijn , Steensels Jan , Saels Veerle , De Rouck Gert , Aerts Guido , Verstrepen Kevin J.
Published: September 2015

Lager beer is the most consumed alcoholic beverage in the world. Its production process is marked by a fermentation conducted at low (8 to 15°C) temperatures and by the use of
Saccharomyces pastorianus
, an interspecific hybrid between
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and the cold-tolerant
Saccharomyces eubayanus
. Recent whole-genome-sequencing efforts revealed that the currently available lager yeasts belong to one of only two archetypes, “Saaz” and “Frohberg.” This limited genetic variation likely reflects that all lager yeasts descend from only two separate interspecific hybridization events, which may also explain the relatively limited aromatic diversity between the available lager beer yeasts compared to, for example, wine and ale beer yeasts. In this study, 31 novel interspecific yeast hybrids were developed, resulting from large-scale robot-assisted selection and breeding between carefully selected strains of
S. cerevisiae
(six strains) and
S. eubayanus
(two strains). Interestingly, many of the resulting hybrids showed a broader temperature tolerance than their parental strains and reference
S. pastorianus
yeasts. Moreover, they combined a high fermentation capacity with a desirable aroma profile in laboratory-scale lager beer fermentations, thereby successfully enriching the currently available lager yeast biodiversity. Pilot-scale trials further confirmed the industrial potential of these hybrids and identified one strain, hybrid H29, which combines a fast fermentation, high attenuation, and the production of a complex, desirable fruity aroma.
Bioinformatic Characterization of Glycyl Radical Enzyme-Associated Bacterial Microcompartments
Authors: Zarzycki Jan , Erbilgin Onur , Kerfeld Cheryl A.
Published: September 2015

Bacterial microcompartments (BMCs) are proteinaceous organelles encapsulating enzymes that catalyze sequential reactions of metabolic pathways. BMCs are phylogenetically widespread; however, only a few BMCs have been experimentally characterized. Among them are the carboxysomes and the propanediol- and ethanolamine-utilizing microcompartments, which play diverse metabolic and ecological roles. The substrate of a BMC is defined by its signature enzyme. In catabolic BMCs, this enzyme typically generates an aldehyde. Recently, it was shown that the most prevalent signature enzymes encoded by BMC loci are glycyl radical enzymes, yet little is known about the function of these BMCs. Here we characterize the glycyl radical enzyme-associated microcompartment (GRM) loci using a combination of bioinformatic analyses and active-site and structural modeling to show that the GRMs comprise five subtypes. We predict distinct functions for the GRMs, including the degradation of choline, propanediol, and fuculose phosphate. This is the first family of BMCs for which identification of the signature enzyme is insufficient for predicting function. The distinct GRM functions are also reflected in differences in shell composition and apparently different assembly pathways. The GRMs are the counterparts of the vitamin B
12
-dependent propanediol- and ethanolamine-utilizing BMCs, which are frequently associated with virulence. This study provides a comprehensive foundation for experimental investigations of the diverse roles of GRMs. Understanding this plasticity of function within a single BMC family, including characterization of differences in permeability and assembly, can inform approaches to BMC bioengineering and the design of therapeutics.
A Virulent Phage Infecting Lactococcus garvieae, with Homology to Lactococcus lactis Phages
Authors: Eraclio Giovanni , Tremblay Denise M. , Lacelle-Côté Alexia , Labrie Simon J. , Fortina Maria Grazia , Moineau Sylvain
Published: September 2015

A new virulent phage belonging to the
Siphoviridae
family and able to infect
Lactococcus garvieae
strains was isolated from compost soil. Phage GE1 has a prolate capsid (56 by 38 nm) and a long noncontractile tail (123 nm). It had a burst size of 139 and a latent period of 31 min. Its host range was limited to only two
L. garvieae
strains out of 73 tested. Phage GE1 has a double-stranded DNA genome of 24,847 bp containing 48 predicted open reading frames (ORFs). Putative functions could be assigned to only 14 ORFs, and significant matches in public databases were found for only 17 ORFs, indicating that GE1 is a novel phage and its genome contains several new viral genes and encodes several new viral proteins. Of these 17 ORFs, 16 were homologous to deduced proteins of virulent phages infecting the dairy bacterium
Lactococcus lactis
, including previously characterized prolate-headed phages. Comparative genome analysis confirmed the relatedness of
L. garvieae
phage GE1 to
L. lactis
phages c2 (22,172 bp) and Q54 (26,537 bp), although its genome organization was closer to that of phage c2. Phage GE1 did not infect any of the 58
L. lactis
strains tested. This study suggests that phages infecting different lactococcal species may have a common ancestor.
Wolbachia-Mediated Antiviral Protection in Drosophila Larvae and Adults following Oral Infection
Authors: Stevanovic Aleksej L. , Arnold Pieter A. , Johnson Karyn N.
Published: September 2015

Understanding viral dynamics in arthropods is of great importance when designing models to describe how viral spread can influence arthropod populations. The endosymbiotic bacterium
Wolbachia
spp., which is present in up to 40% of all insect species, has the ability to alter viral dynamics in both
Drosophila
spp. and mosquitoes, a feature that in mosquitoes may be utilized to limit spread of important arboviruses. To understand the potential effect of
Wolbachia
on viral dynamics in nature, it is important to consider the impact of natural routes of virus infection on
Wolbachia
antiviral effects. Using adult
Drosophila
strains, we show here that
Drosophila
-
Wolbachia
associations that have previously been shown to confer antiviral protection following systemic viral infection also confer protection against virus-induced mortality following oral exposure to Drosophila C virus in adults. Interestingly, a different pattern was observed when the same fly lines were challenged with the virus when still larvae. Analysis of the four
Drosophila
-
Wolbachia
associations that were protective in adults indicated that only the w1118-
w
MelPop association conferred protection in larvae following oral delivery of the virus. Analysis of
Wolbachia
density using quantitative PCR (qPCR) showed that a high
Wolbachia
density was congruent with antiviral protection in both adults and larvae. This study indicates that
Wolbachia
-mediated protection may vary between larval and adult stages of a given
Wolbachia
-host combination and that the variations in susceptibility by life stage correspond with
Wolbachia
density. The differences in the outcome of virus infection are likely to influence viral dynamics in
Wolbachia
-infected insect populations in nature and could also have important implications for the transmission of arboviruses in mosquito populations.
A 58-year-old woman with hypoxia, hypoxaemia, a hole in the heart and a … herring! Intracardiac or extracardiac shunt? That is the question!
Authors: Nosib Shravan , Watt Kristina , Penz Erika , Fenton Mark
Published: September 2015

We describe a case of a previously healthy 58-year-old woman who presented with gradual onset shortness of breath on exertion, erythrocytosis, hypoxia and hypoxaemia. Initial investigations revealed a normal chest radiography and pulmonary function test, however, there was an isolated reduction in diffusion capacity. She was subsequently found to have a patent foramen ovale (PFO) with intermittent shunting. A contrast echocardiography study hinted towards an extracardiac shunt. No shunt was detected in spite of using advanced imaging techniques. A lung biopsy was ultimately performed and histopathology revealed diffuse microvascular pulmonary arteriovenous malformations. This is one of few cases reported of this rare vascular abnormality and highlights its strong genetic association with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia. The diagnostic challenges and management of this unique condition are reviewed in detail.
Tendon neuroplastic training: changing the way we think about tendon rehabilitation: a narrative review
Authors: Rio Ebonie , Kidgell Dawson , Moseley G Lorimer , Gaida Jamie , Docking Sean , Purdam Craig , Cook Jill
Published: September 2015

Tendinopathy can be resistant to treatment and often recurs, implying that current treatment approaches are suboptimal. Rehabilitation programmes that have been successful in terms of pain reduction and return to sport outcomes usually include strength training. Muscle activation can induce analgesia, improving self-efficacy associated with reducing one's own pain. Furthermore, strength training is beneficial for tendon matrix structure, muscle properties and limb biomechanics. However, current tendon rehabilitation may not adequately address the corticospinal control of the muscle, which may result in altered control of muscle recruitment and the consequent tendon load, and this may contribute to recalcitrance or symptom recurrence. Outcomes of interest include the effect of strength training on tendon pain, corticospinal excitability and short interval cortical inhibition. The aims of this concept paper are to: (1) review what is known about changes to the primary motor cortex and motor control in tendinopathy, (2) identify the parameters shown to induce neuroplasticity in strength training and (3) align these principles with tendon rehabilitation loading protocols to introduce a combination approach termed as tendon neuroplastic training. Strength training is a powerful modulator of the central nervous system. In particular, corticospinal inputs are essential for motor unit recruitment and activation; however, specific strength training parameters are important for neuroplasticity. Strength training that is externally paced and akin to a skilled movement task has been shown to not only reduce tendon pain, but modulate excitatory and inhibitory control of the muscle and therefore, potentially tendon load. An improved understanding of the methods that maximise the opportunity for neuroplasticity may be an important progression in how we prescribe exercise-based rehabilitation in tendinopathy for pain modulation and potentially restoration of the corticospinal control of the muscle-tendon complex.
Assessing the impact of waste picking on musculoskeletal disorders among waste pickers in Mumbai, India: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Singh Shrikant , Chokhandre Praveen
Published: September 2015

Objective

To assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) as well as the impact of the occupation of waste picking on complaints of MSDs among waste pickers. The study attempts to understand the risk factors for MSDs in various areas of the body.

Design

A cross-sectional household survey was conducted using a case-control design. The survey instrument for measuring musculoskeletal symptoms was adopted from a standardised Nordic questionnaire. The impact of the occupation of waste picking on MSDs was analysed using the propensity score matching (PSM) method.

Participants

The study population consisted of waste pickers (n=200) who had been working for at least a year and a control group (n=213) selected from among or living close to the same communities.

Results

The 12-month prevalence of MSDs was higher among waste pickers (79%) compared to controls (55%) particularly in the lower back (54–36%), knee (48–35%), upper back (40–21%) and shoulder (32–12%). Similar patterns were observed in the 12-month prevalence of MSDs which prevented normal activity inside and outside the home, particularly for the lower back (36–21%), shoulder (21–7%) and upper back (25–12%) for waste pickers and controls. Analysis of the impact of waste picking on complaints of MSDs suggests that the occupation of waste picking raises the risk of MSDs particularly in the shoulder, lower and upper back. Older age and longer duration of work are significant risk factors for MSDs.

Conclusions

The findings suggest a relatively higher prevalence of MSDs among waste pickers, particularly in the lower and upper back and shoulder, compared to controls. Preventive measures and treatment to minimise the burden of MSDs among waste pickers are strongly recommended.