bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted Embolization of Aneurysms Associated With Brain Arteriovenous Malformations at High Risk for Surgical Resection: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Alexander Matthew D , Hippe Daniel S , Cooke Daniel L , Hallam Danial K , Hetts Steven W , Kim Helen , Lawton Michael T , Sekhar Laligam N , Kim Louis J , Ghodke Basavaraj V
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

High-risk components of brain arteriovenous malformations (BAVMs) can be targeted to reduce the risk of lesion rupture.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate targeted embolization of aneurysms against other means of treatment with a case–control analysis; we previously investigated this approach associated with BAVMs.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients with BAVMs was performed, identifying patients treated with intention to occlude only an aneurysm associated with a BAVM. For each targeted aneurysm embolization (TAE) patient identified, 4 control patients were randomly selected, controlling for rupture status, age, and Spetzler-Martin plus Lawton-Young supplemental score. Analysis was performed to compare rates of adverse events (hemorrhage, new seizure, and death) between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients met inclusion criteria, and 128 control patients were identified, out of 1103 patients treated during the study period. Thirty-four adverse events occurred (15 ruptures, 15 new seizures, and 11 deaths) during the follow-up period (mean 1157 d for the TAE cohort and 1036 d for the non-TAE cohort). Statistically lower associations were noted for the TAE group for any adverse event (hazard ratio 0.28, P = .037) and the composite outcome of hemorrhage or new seizure (hazard ratio 0.20, P = .029).

CONCLUSION

For BAVMs at high risk for surgical resection, TAE can be performed safely and effectively. Patients treated with TAE had better outcomes than matched patients undergoing other combinations of treatment. TAE can be considered for BAVMs with high operative risk prior to radiosurgery or when no other treatment options are available.
A study of the long term evolution in active region upflows
Authors: Harra Louise K. , Ugarte-Urra Ignacio , De Rosa Marc , Mandrini Cristina , van Driel-Gesztelyi Lidia , Baker Deborah , Culhane J. Leonard , Démoulin Pascal
Published: March 2017

Since their discovery, upflows at the edges of active regions have attracted a lot of interest, primarily as they could potentially contribute to the slow solar wind. One aspect that has not been studied yet is how the long term evolution of active regions impacts the upflows. In this work, we analyze one active region that survives three solar rotations. We track how the flows change with time. We use local and global modeling of the decaying active region to determine how the age of the active region will impact the extent of the open magnetic fields, and then how some of the upflows could become outflows. We finish with a discussion of how these results, set in a broader context, can be further developed with the Solar Orbiter mission.
Credit Crises, Precautionary Savings, and the Liquidity Trap*
Authors: Guerrieri Veronica , Lorenzoni Guido
Published: March 2017

We study the effects of a credit crunch on consumer spending in a heterogeneous-agent incomplete-market model. After an unexpected permanent tightening in consumers’ borrowing capacity, constrained consumers are forced to repay their debt, and unconstrained consumers increase their precautionary savings. This depresses interest rates, especially in the short run, and generates an output drop, even with flexible prices. The output drop is larger with sticky prices, if the zero lower bound prevents the interest rate from adjusting downward. Adding durable goods to the model, households take larger debt positions and the output response can be larger.
Current Risk Stratification Systems Are Not Generalizable across Surgical Technique in Midline Ventral Hernia Repair
Authors: Fligor Jennifer E. , Lanier Steven T. , Dumanian Gregory A.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Current ventral hernia repair risk estimation tools focus on patient comorbidities with the goal of improving clinical outcomes through improved patient selection. However, their predictive value remains unproven.

Methods:

Outcomes of patients who underwent midline ventral hernia repair with retrorectus placement of mid-weight soft polypropylene mesh between 2010 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed and compared with predicted wound-related complication risk from 3 tools in the literature: Carolinas Equation for Determining Associated Risk, the Ventral Hernia Working Group (VHWG) grade, and a modified VHWG grade.

Results:

A total of 101 patients underwent hernia repair. Mean age was 56 years and mean body mass index was 29 m/kg2 (range, 18–51 m/kg2). We found no significant relationship between the risk estimated by Carolinas Equation for Determining Associated Risk (B = 1.45, P = 0.61) and actual wound-related complications. VHWG grades >1 were not statistically different with regard to rate of wound complication compared with VHWG grade 1 (grade 2: B = 0.05, P = 0.95; grade 3: B = −0.21, P = 0.86; grade 4: B = 2.57, P = 0.10). Modified VHWG grades >1 were not statistically different with regard to rate of wound complication compared with modified VHWG grade 1 (grade 2: B = 0.20, P = 0.80; grade 3: B = 1.03, P = 0.41).

Conclusions:

Current risk stratification tools overemphasize patient factors, ignoring the importance of technique in minimizing complications and recurrence. We attribute our low complication rate to retrorectus placement of a narrow, macroporous polypropylene mesh with up to 45 suture fixation points for force distribution in contrast to current strategies that employ wide meshes with minimal fixation.
Pediatric Melanoma: A 35-year Population-based Review
Authors: Dean Paige H. , Bucevska Marija , Strahlendorf Caron , Verchere Cynthia
Published: March 2017

Background:

Melanoma is a rare neoplasm in the pediatric population. Recent publications suggest a possible increase in incidence over the past few decades. The purpose of this study was to analyze trends in pediatric patients diagnosed with malignant melanoma in British Columbia (BC) in the past 35 years.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed. All patients in BC diagnosed with melanoma before 18 years of age from 1979 to 2014 were included. Patient demographics, melanoma description, treatment details, and survival data were collected.

Results:

Seventy-eight subjects were identified for the study. Patients were equally distributed by sex. Sixty-one (78%) of the subjects were diagnosed in the postpubertal age (≥12 years old). The most common sites of occurrence were the extremities (n = 33) and the trunk (n = 27), with the location on the trunk showing the highest mortality rate (22%). All patients were surgically treated and some had additional chemotherapy (12) and/or radiotherapy (12). Fatal outcome was recorded in 12 of the 78 subjects, 10 of whom had postpubertal diagnosis. The average time from date of diagnosis to date of death was 9.3 years.

Conclusions:

The incidence of melanoma in the pediatric population remains exceedingly rare: less than 2.5 per million children younger than 18 years. The diagnosis is rarely made before puberty; the incidence is equal in males and females and has not changed over a 35-year time period in BC. Our study shows 85% survival with the majority of patients having had surgical excision only.
Brief Report: Randomized, Double-Blind Comparison of Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF) vs Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF), Each Coformulated With Elvitegravir, Cobicistat, and Emtricitabine (E/C/F) for Initial HIV-1 Treatment: Week 144 Results
Authors: Arribas José R. , Thompson Melanie , Sax Paul E. , Haas Bernhard , McDonald Cheryl , Wohl David A. , DeJesus Edwin , Clarke Amanda E. , Guo Susan , Wang Hui , Callebaut Christian , Plummer Andrew , Cheng Andrew , Das Moupali , McCallister Scott
Published: March 2017

In 2 double-blind phase 3 trials, 1733 antiretroviral-naive adults were randomized to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), each coformulated with elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine (E/C/F). At 144 weeks, TAF was superior to TDF in virologic efficacy, with 84.2% vs 80.0% having HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL (difference 4.2%; 95% confidence interval: 0.6% to 7.8%). TAF had less impact than TDF on bone mineral density and renal biomarkers. No participants on TAF had renal-related discontinuations vs 12 on TDF (P < 0.001), with no cases of proximal tubulopathy for TAF vs 4 for TDF. There were greater increases in lipids with TAF vs TDF, with no difference in the total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein ratio. For initial HIV therapy, E/C/F/TAF is superior to E/C/F/TDF in efficacy and bone and renal safety.
A Comprehensive Assessment of the Genetic Determinants inSalmonellaTyphimurium for Resistance to Hydrogen Peroxide Using Proteogenomics
Authors: Karash Sardar , Liyanage Rohana , Qassab Abdullah , Lay Jackson O. , Kwon Young Min
Published: March 2017

Salmonellais an intracellular pathogen that infects a wide range of hosts and can survive in macrophages. An essential mechanism uses by the macrophages to eradicateSalmonellais production of reactive oxygen species. Here, we used proteogenomics to determine the candidate genes and proteins that have a role in resistance ofS.Typhimurium to H2O2. For Tn-seq, a highly saturated Tn5 insertion library was grownin vitrounder either 2.5 (H2O2L) or 3.5 mM H2O2(H2O2H). We identified two sets of overlapping genes that are required for resistance ofS. Typhimurium to H2O2L and H2O2H, and the results were validated via phenotypic evaluation of 50 selected mutants. The enriched pathways for resistance to H2O2included DNA repair, aromatic amino acid biosynthesis (aroBK), Fe-S cluster biosynthesis, iron homeostasis and a putative iron transporter system (ybbKLM), flagellar genes (fliBC), H2O2scavenging enzymes, and DNA adenine methylase. Proteomics revealed that the majority of essential proteins, including ribosomal proteins, were downregulated upon exposure to H2O2. A subset of proteins identified by Tn-seq were analyzed by targeted proteomics, and 70% of them were upregulated upon exposure to H2O2. The identified candidate genes will deepen our understanding about mechanisms ofS. Typhimurium survival in macrophages, and can be exploited to develop new antimicrobial drugs.
Multiple reference genome sequences of hot pepper reveal the massive evolution of plant disease resistance genes by retroduplication
Authors: Kim Seungill , Park Jieun , Yeom Seon-In , Kim Yong-Min , Seo Eunyoung , Kim Ki-Tae , Kim Myung-Shin , Lee Je Min , Cheong Kyeongchae , Shin Ho-Sub , Kim Saet-Byul , Han Koeun , Lee Jundae , Park Minkyu , Lee Hyun-Ah , Lee Hye-Young , Lee Young-sill , Oh Soohyun , Lee Joo Hyun , Choi Eunhye , Choi Eunbi , Lee So Eui , Jeon Jongbum , Kim Hyunbin , Choi Gobong , Song Hyeunjeong , Lee JunKi , Lee Sang-Choon , Kwon Jin-Kyung , Lee Hea-Young , Koo Namjin , Hong Yunji , Kim Ryan W. , Kang Won-Hee , Huh Jin Hoe , Kang Byoung-Cheorl , Yang Tae-Jin , Lee Yong-Hwan , Bennetzen Jeffrey L. , Choi Doil
Published: March 2017

Transposable elements (TEs) provide major evolutionary forces leading to new genome structure and species diversification. However, the role of TEs in the expansion of disease resistance gene families has been unexplored in plants. Here, we report high-qualityde novogenomes for two peppers (Capsicum baccatumandC. chinense) and an improved reference genome (C. annuum). Dynamic genome rearrangements involving translocations among chromosome 3, 5 and 9 were detected in comparison betweenC. baccatumand the two other peppers. The amplification ofathilaLTR-retrotransposons, members of thegypsysuperfamily, led to genome expansion inC. baccatum.In-depth genome-wide comparison of genes and repeats unveiled that the copy numbers of NLRs were greatly increased by LTR-retrotransposon-mediated retroduplication. Moreover, retroduplicated NLRs exhibited great abundance across the angiosperms, with most cases lineage-specific and thus recent events. Our study revealed that retroduplication has played key roles in the emergence of new disease-resistance genes in plants.
Maintaining maximal metabolic flux by gene expression control
Authors: Planqué Robert , Hulshof Josephus , Teusink Bas , Hendriks Johan , Bruggeman Frank J.
Published: March 2017

Many evolutionarily successful bacteria attain high growth rates across growth-permissive conditions. They express metabolic networks that synthesise all cellular components at a high rate. Metabolic reaction rates are bounded by the concentration of the catalysing enzymes and cells have finite resources available for enzyme synthesis. Therefore, bacteria that grow fast should express needed metabolic enzymes at precisely tuned concentrations. To maintain fast growth in a dynamic environment, cells should adjust gene expression of metabolic enzymes. The activity of many of the associated transcription factors is regulated by their binding to intracellular metabolites. We study optimal metabolite-mediated regulation of metabolic-gene expression that preserves maximisation of metabolic fluxes across varying conditions. We logically derive the underlying control logic of this type of optimal regulation, which we term ‘Specific Flux (q) Optimization by Robust Adaptive Control’ (qORAC), and illustrate it with several examples. We show that optimal metabolic flux can be maintained in the face ofKchanging parameters only if the number of transcription-factor-binding metabolites is at least equal toK.qORAC-regulation of metabolism can generally be achieved with basic biochemical interactions, indicating that metabolism can operate close to optimality. The theory that we present is directly applicable to synthetic biology, biotechnology and fundamental studies of the regulation of metabolism.
Whole-genome sequencing identifies homozygous BRCA2 deletion guiding treatment in dedifferentiated prostate cancer
Authors: Purshouse Karin , Schuh Anna , Fairfax Benjamin P. , Knight Sam , Antoniou Pavlos , Dreau Helene , Popitsch Niko , Gatter Kevin , Roberts Ian , Browning Lisa , Traill Zoe , Kerr David , Verrill Clare , Tuthill Mark , Taylor Jenny C. , Protheroe Andrew
Published: March 2017

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has transformed the understanding of the genetic drivers of cancer and is increasingly being used in cancer medicine to identify personalized therapies. Here we describe a case in which the application of WGS identified a tumoral BRCA2 deletion in a patient with aggressive dedifferentiated prostate cancer that was repeat-biopsied after disease progression. This would not have been detected by standard BRCA testing, and it led to additional treatment with a maintenance poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor following platinum-based chemotherapy. This case demonstrates that repeat biopsy upon disease progression and application of WGS to tumor samples has meaningful clinical utility and the potential to transform outcomes in patients with cancer.
A triclinic polymorph of tricyclohexylphosphane sulfide: crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Tan Yi Jiun , Yeo Chien Ing , Halcovitch Nathan R. , Jotani Mukesh M. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: March 2017

The title compound, (C6H11)3PS (systematic name: tricyclohexyl-λ5-phosphanethione), is a triclinic (P-1,Z′ = 1) polymorph of the previously reported orthorhombic form (Pnma,Z′ = 1/2) [Kerret al.(1977).Can. J. Chem.55, 3081–3085; Reibenspieset al.(1996).Z. Kristallogr.211, 400]. While conformational differences exist between the non-symmetric molecule in the triclinic polymorph,cf. the mirror-symmetric molecule in the orthorhombic form, these differences are not chemically significant. The major feature of the molecular packing in the triclinic polymorph is the formation of linear chains along theaaxis sustained by methine-C—H...S(thione) interactions. The chains pack with no directional interactions between them. The analysis of the Hirshfeld surface for both polymorphs indicates a high degree of similarity, being dominated by H...H (ca90%) and S...H/H...S contacts.
(E)-1,1′-(Diazene-1,2-diyl)bis(cyclohexane-1-carbonitrile)
Authors: Begum Farzana , Twamley Brendan , Baker Robert J.
Published: March 2017

The whole molecule of the title compound, C14H20N4, is generated by inversion symmetry. The mid-point of the N=N bond is situated on the inversion centre. The conformation about this central N=N bond is E. The carbonitrile groups occupy axial positions on the cyclohexane rings. In the crystal, there are no significant intermolecular interactions present.
4-Chloro-5-(morpholin-4-yl)-2-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)methyl]pyridazin-3(2H)-one
Authors: Sun Yanwen , Wu Haolei , Wei Changheng , Gao Mei , Shen Zeyi , Li Hongsen
Published: March 2017

In the title compound, C17H16ClN5O3, the phenyl and the oxadiazole rings are almost coplanar, subtending a dihedral angle of 4.34 (19)°. These rings lie almost normal to the pyridazine ring, making dihedral angles of 87.35 (16) and 89.06 (15)°, respectively. The morpholine ring has the usual chair conformation and its mean plane is inclined to the pyridazine ring by 39.45 (17)°. There is a short intramolecular C—H...Cl contact present. In the crystal, molecules are linked by bifurcated C—(H,H)...O hydrogen bonds and a C—H...N hydrogen bond, forming layers parallel to the ab plane.
3,5-Dichloro-N-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)benzenesulfonamide
Authors: Shakuntala K. , Lokanath N. K. , Naveen S. , Suchetan P. A.
Published: March 2017

The molecule of the title compound, C12H7Cl4NO2S, is U-shaped, with the central C—S—N—C segment having a torsion angle of −58.7 (3)°. The dihedral angle between the benzene rings is 40.23 (2)°. Further, the ortho Cl atom on the aniline ring is syn to the N—H bond in the central –C—S(O2)—NH—C– segment. In the crystal, molecules are linked by pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers that enclose R
2
2(8) loops. These dimers are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds that form a double C(7) chain propagating along the b-axis direction. These chains are further consolidated by Cl...Cl halogen bonds [3.4331 (2) Å]. π–π contacts [centroid–centroid distance = 3.6574 (19) Å] between the aniline rings link adjacent chains into a three-dimensional supramolecular network with molecules stacked along the b-axis direction.
“I feel proud we are moving forward”: safeguarding mindfulness for vulnerable student and teacher wellbeing in a community college
Authors: Burrows Leigh
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a study conducted for the purpose of learning more about the mindfulness experiences of college students and their teachers. To assist in developing a more inclusive approach to the teaching of mindfulness tailored to the individual needs of more vulnerable students and to inform teacher training and curriculum development.

Design/methodology/approach

This three-phase phenomenological study involved face-to-face and online contact with community college students and teachers involved in courses that incorporated mindfulness meditation. The findings from interviews with students in phase 1 were shared with teachers in phase 2 along with suggestions for safeguarding in phase 3 but initial results are promising as a number of safeguards have already been put into place.

Findings

This study found that mindfulness meditation is not necessarily a positive experience for vulnerable college students and their teachers and that there was a need for more teacher training, knowledge and ongoing support about the effects of some mindfulness meditations on some vulnerable students and how to adjust their intensity.

Research limitations/implications

While this is a small qualitative study, the majority of students interviewed reported unusual experiences. This this is not well known in the literature on mindfulness in higher education, and a search of the clinical literature supports the findings that significant safeguards and adjustments are needed for mindfulness meditation for vulnerable students in educational, non-clinical settings. Further research is needed.

Practical implications

An implication of this study is that mindfulness meditation in its current form is likely to be unsuitable for vulnerable students. Practical recommendations for safeguarding mindfulness in higher education are already being trialed, as mentioned in this paper and will be the subject of more extensive exploration in another paper.

Social implications

There are significant implications in these findings that the potential harmful effects of mindfulness may be overlooked and may be more commonly experienced than is currently realized especially for individuals with a history of trauma, with addictions, mental health difficulties or self-harm.

Originality/value

An innovation in this study is its methodology which drew out students’ and teachers’ own experience of mindfulness meditation in their own words when most mindfulness studies are quantitative and tend to focus on outcomes before understanding. In addition, the findings were presented directly to teachers making it possible to see how little they knew about their students’ experiences. This created an opening and a willingness to adopt safeguarding recommendations.
Negotiating meaning – the experience of community aged care
Authors: Doyle Susanna
Published: March 2017

Purpose

A framework for achieving what Heidegger referred to as a “fusion of horizons” of understanding, was developed during a study into the experience of a group of older adults receiving care. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The interpretive hermeneutic phenomenological methodology provided strategies for enabling a researcher to shift his or her understanding to be closer to that of the older adult receiving care, to better understand the experience of receiving care from the perspective of a recipient. Older adults participated in research exploring their everyday lived experiences, and contributed to the researcher’s understanding of the personal impact of care.

Findings

The older adults in this study perceived care in essentially relational terms, and raised the importance of maintaining personal autonomy and relationships as central to maintain meaning in daily life. This framework for successfully achieving a “fusion of horizons” during research is discussed and proposed as a potential strategy for also supporting active participation by adults in their own care provision.

Originality/value

This strategy might be used as a way of enhancing the engagement, safety and satisfaction of older adults, thereby also assisting to protect them from potentially negative influences of power differentials impacting on their care experience.
Breaking white silences in South African-Dutch collaboration in higher education
Authors: Kamsteeg Frans , Wels Harry
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the complex positionality and the complexity that comes with the study of whiteness in South African higher education by Dutch, white academics. This complexity stems from the long-standing relationship between Dutch universities, the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA) in particular, with their South African counterparts, which predominantly supported apartheid with reference to a shared religious (Protestant) background.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper rests upon a literature review of the development of South African higher education, and an assessment of the prominent role played by the Dutch Vrije Universiteit in support of the all-white, Afrikaans Potchefstroom University (presently North-West University). The authors, who are both involved in the institutional cooperation between Vrije Universiteit and South African universities, reflect on the complexity of this relationship by providing auto-ethnographic evidence from their own (religious) biography.

Findings

The paper reflects the ambiguous historical as well as contemporary contexts and ties that bind Vrije Universiteit to South African universities, especially formerly Afrikaans-speaking ones. The ambiguity is about the comfort of sharing an identity with formerly Afrikaans-speaking universities, on the one hand, and the discomfort of historical and political complicities in a (still) segregated South African society on the other hand.

Originality/value

This auto-ethnographic paper breathes an atmosphere of a “coming out” that is not very common in academic writing. It is a reflection and testimony of a lifelong immersion in VUA-South African academic research relations in which historical, institutional, and personal contexts intermingle and lead to a unique positionality leading to “breaking silences” around these complex relations.
Women in the Formal and Informal Economies of Late Eighteenth‐Century Quebec, 1763–1830
Authors: Christie Nancy
Published: March 2017

This article challenges the conventional interpretation of the transition from French to British rule in Quebec, which has emphasised the increasing marginalisation of women in the colonial economy. Using hitherto unexplored criminal and civil court records and newspaper advertisements, reveals that women and in particular married women, both French and English speaking, were active in all facets of business life. Given the importance of imported British luxury items in the colonial economy following the American Revolution, this article argues that women occupied a particularly dynamic segment of business life in Quebec, and were especially prominent in the critical textile and fashion trades. A major theme of this article is to show the significance of informal trade networks in expanding economic development in the late eighteenth century, where women were demonstrably key players. The presence of women in both formal and formal economies goes far to locating Quebec in a burgeoning Atlantic economy, and to explaining the nature of consumer society in this new British colony.
The Relationship between Immigration to Australia and the Labour Market Outcomes of Australian‐Born Workers
Authors: Breunig Robert , Deutscher Nathan , To Hang Thi
Published: March 2017

We examine the relationship between immigration to Australia and the labour market outcomes of Australian‐born workers. We use immigrant supply changes in skill groups, defined by education and experience, to identify the impact of immigration on the labour market. We find that immigration flows into those skill groups that have the highest earnings and lowest unemployment. Once we control for the impact of experience and education on labour market outcomes, we find almost no evidence that immigration harms the labour market outcomes of those born in Australia.
Measurement artefacts lead to false positives in the study of birdsong in noise
Authors: Brumm Henrik , Zollinger Sue Anne , Niemelä Petri T. , Sprau Philipp
Published: March 2017

Numerous studies over the past decade have reported correlations between elevated levels of anthropogenic noise and a rise in the minimum frequency of acoustic signals of animals living in noisy habitats. This pattern appears to be occurring globally, and higher pitched signals have been hypothesized to be adaptive changes that reduce masking by low‐frequency traffic noise. However, the sound analysis methods most often used in these studies are prone to measurement errors that can result in false positives. In addition, the commonly used method of measuring frequencies visually from spectrograms might also lead to observer‐expectancy biases that could exacerbate measurement errors.

We conducted an experiment to (i) quantify the size and type of errors that result from ‘eye‐balling’ frequency measurements with cursors placed manually on spectrograms of signals recorded in noise and no‐noise conditions, and (ii) to test whether observer expectations lead to significant errors in frequency measurements. We asked 54 volunteers, blind to the true intention of our study, to visually measure the minimum frequency of a variety of natural and synthesized bird sounds, recorded either in noise, or no‐noise conditions. Test subjects were either informed or uninformed about the hypothesized results of the measurements.

Our results demonstrate that inappropriate methodology in acoustic analysis can yield false positives with effect sizes as large, or even larger, than those reported in published studies. In addition to these measurement artefacts, psychological observer biases also led to false positives – when observers expected signals to have higher minimum frequencies in noise, they measured significantly higher minimum frequencies than uninformed observers, who had not been primed with any expectation.

The use of improper analysis methods in bioacoustics can lead to the publication of spurious results. We discuss alternative methods that yield unbiased frequency measures and we caution that it is imperative for researchers to familiarize themselves both with the functions and limitations of their sound analysis programmes. In addition, observer‐expectancy biases are a potential source of error not only in the field of bioacoustics, but in any situation where measurements can be influenced by human subjectivity.
Spermatogenesis associated 22 is required for DNA repair and synapsis of homologous chromosomes in mouse germ cells
Authors: Hays E. , Majchrzak N. , Daniel V. , Ferguson Z. , Brown S. , Hathorne K. , La Salle S.
Published: March 2017

Analysis of the N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU)‐induced repro42 mutation previously identified spermatogenesis associated 22 (Spata22) as a gene required for meiotic progression and fertility in both male and female mice, but its specific contribution to the process was unclear. Here, we report on a novel, null allele of Spata22 (Spata22Gt) and confirm its requirement for germ cell development. Similar to repro42 mutant mice, histological and mating analyses indicate that gametogenesis is profoundly affected in Spata22Gt/Gt males and females, resulting in infertility. Cytological examination confirms that germ cells do not progress beyond zygonema and meiotic arrest is linked to impairment of both synapsis and DNA repair. Analysis of SPATA22 distribution reveals that it localizes to foci associated with meiotic chromosomes during prophase I and that the number of foci peaks at zygonema; there are also more SPATA22 foci in oocytes than in spermatocytes. Furthermore, SPATA22 co‐localizes with a number of proteins involved in meiotic recombination, including RAD51, DMC1, and MLH1, and is present until mid‐pachynema, suggesting a role in resolution of recombination intermediates. In fact, SPATA22 co‐localizes with MLH1 in more than 20% of foci at pachynema. Analysis of Spata22Gt/Gt meiocytes confirms that SPATA22 is required for localization of MEIOB but not RPA (two proteins known to interact with SPATA22), and immunoblotting corroborates that production of MEIOB is indeed decreased in the absence of SPATA22. Together, these data suggest that SPATA22 is required for both meiotic recombination and synapsis during meiosis in mice.
Application of a Lumped Parameter Model to Study the Feasibility of Simultaneous Implantation of a Continuous Flow Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) and a Pulsatile Flow VAD in BIVAD Patients
Authors: Di Molfetta Arianna , Ferrari Gianfranco , Iacobelli Roberta , Filippelli Sergio , Fresiello Libera , Guccione Paolo , Toscano Alessandra , Amodeo Antonio
Published: March 2017

The aim of this work is to develop and test a lumped parameter model of the cardiovascular system to simulate the simultaneous use of pulsatile (P) and continuous flow (C) ventricular assist devices (VADs) on the same patient. Echocardiographic and hemodynamic data of five pediatric patients undergoing VAD implantation were retrospectively collected and used to simulate the patients' baseline condition with the numerical model. Once the baseline hemodynamic was reproduced for each patient, the following assistance modalities were simulated: (a) CVAD assisting the right ventricle and PVAD assisting the left ventricle (RCF + LPF), (b) CVAD assisting the left ventricle and PVAD assisting the right ventricle (LCF + RPF). The numerical model can well reproduce patients’ baseline. The cardiac output increases in both assisted configurations (RCF + LPF: +17%, LCF + RPF: +21%, P = ns), left (right) ventricular volumes decrease more evidently in the configuration LCF + RPF (RCF + LPF), left (right) atrial pressure decreases in the LCF + RPF (RCF + LPF) modality. The pulmonary arterial pressure slightly decreases in the configuration LCF + RPF and it increases with RCF + LPF. Left and right ventricular external work increases in both configurations probably because of the total cardiac output increment. However, left and right artero‐ventricular coupling improves especially in the LCF + RPF (−36% for the left ventricle and −21% for the right ventricle, P = ns). The pulsatility index decreases by 8.5% in the configuration LCF + RPF and increases by 6.4% with RCF + LPF (P = 0.0001). A numerical model could be useful to tailor on patients the choice of the VAD that could be implanted to improve the hemodynamic benefits. Moreover, a model could permit to simulate extreme physiological conditions and innovative configurations, as the implantation of both CVAD and PVAD on the same patient.
Intracranial myxoid mesenchymal tumors with EWSR1–CREB family gene fusions: myxoid variant of angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma or novel entity?
Authors: Bale Tejus A. , Oviedo Angelica , Kozakewich Harry , Giannini Caterina , Davineni Phani K. , Ligon Keith , Alexandrescu Sanda
Published: March 2017

Intracranial myxoid mesenchymal tumor harboring EWSR1 fusions with CREB family of genes was recently described, and it resembles the myxoid variant of angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma. We present three pediatric patients with intracranial EWSR1‐rearranged myxoid mesenchymal neoplasm and provide a molecular genetic characterization of these tumors. Clinical histories and imaging results were reviewed. Histology, immunohistochemistry, EWSR1, FUS, NR4A3 fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) were performed. A 12‐year‐old male (case 1), 14‐year‐old female (case 2), and 18‐year‐old male (case 3), presented with headaches, emesis, and seizures, respectively. The magnetic resonance images demonstrated tumors abutting the dura (cases 1 and 3) and in the third ventricle (case 2). All tumors were vascular, with solid sheets of monomorphic oval cells in a prominent myxoid/microcystic matrix. A thin fibrous pseudocapsule was present in all lesions, but definitive lymphocytic cuffing was absent. Morphologically, they closely resembled myxoid variant of angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma. Mitoses were rare, and necrosis was absent. All tumors expressed desmin and GLUT1, and focal EMA and CD99. The proliferation index was low. FISH and NGS showed EWSR1–CREB1 fusion (cases 1 and 2), and EWSR1–CREM fusion (case 3). There were no FUS (16p11.2) or NR4A3 (9q22.33) rearrangements in case 3. Gains of 5q (including KCNIP1) and 11q (including CCND1) were present in cases 1 and 2. There were no common pathogenic genomic changes other than EWSR1 rearrangements across cases. CNS myxoid mesenchymal neoplasms with histological and immunophenotypic similarities to myxoid variant of AFH are rare, diagnostically challenging, and harbor EWSR1–CREB1 and also a novel EWSR1–CREM fusion not yet described in AFH. Therefore, it is uncertain if these tumors represent variants of AFH or a new entity. The copy number and mutational changes presented here provide support for future studies to further clarify this issue.
Gaze‐Contingent Display Changes as New Window on Analytical and Holistic Face Perception in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Evers Kris , Van Belle Goedele , Steyaert Jean , Noens Ilse , Wagemans Johan
Published: March 2017

The strength of holistic face perception in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was evaluated by applying the gaze‐contingent mask and window technique to a face matching and discrimination task in 6‐ to 14‐year‐old children with (n = 36) and without ASD (n = 47), and by examining fixation patterns. Behavioral results suggested a slower and less efficient face processing in the ASD sample compared with the matched control group. Comparing the moving mask and window conditions revealed a reduced holistic face processing bias in the younger age group but not in the older sample. Preferential viewing patterns revealed both similarities and differences between both participant groups.
Cost‐effectiveness of population‐based, community, workplace and individual policies for diabetes prevention in the UK
Authors: Breeze P. R. , Thomas C. , Squires H. , Brennan A. , Greaves C. , Diggle P. , Brunner E. , Tabak A. , Preston L. , Chilcott J.
Published: March 2017

Aim

To analyse the cost‐effectiveness of different interventions for Type 2 diabetes prevention within a common framework.

Methods

A micro‐simulation model was developed to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of a range of diabetes prevention interventions including: (1) soft drinks taxation; (2) retail policy in socially deprived areas; (3) workplace intervention; (4) community‐based intervention; and (5) screening and intensive lifestyle intervention in individuals with high diabetes risk. Within the model, individuals follow metabolic trajectories (for BMI, cholesterol, systolic blood pressure and glycaemia); individuals may develop diabetes, and some may exhibit complications of diabetes and related disorders, including cardiovascular disease, and eventually die. Lifetime healthcare costs, employment costs and quality‐adjusted life‐years are collected for each person.

Results

All interventions generate more life‐years and lifetime quality‐adjusted life‐years and reduce healthcare spending compared with doing nothing. Screening and intensive lifestyle intervention generates greatest lifetime net benefit (£37) but is costly to implement. In comparison, soft drinks taxation or retail policy generate lower net benefit (£11 and £11) but are cost‐saving in a shorter time period, preferentially benefit individuals from deprived backgrounds and reduce employer costs.

Conclusion

The model enables a wide range of diabetes prevention interventions to be evaluated according to cost‐effectiveness, employment and equity impacts over the short and long term, allowing decision‐makers to prioritize policies that maximize the expected benefits, as well as fulfilling other policy targets, such as addressing social inequalities.
Maternally induced intraclutch cannibalism: an adaptive response to predation risk?
Authors: Tigreros Natasha , Norris Rachel H. , Wang Eugenia H. , Thaler Jennifer S.
Published: March 2017

Theory on condition‐dependent risk‐taking indicates that when prey are in poor condition, their anti‐predator responses should be weak. However, variation in responses resulting from differences in condition is generally considered an incidental by‐product of organisms living in a heterogeneous environment. UsingLeptinotarsa decemlineatabeetles and stinkbug (Podisus maculiventris)predators, we hypothesised that in response to predation risk, parents improve larval nutritional condition and expression of anti‐predator responses by promoting intraclutch cannibalism. We showed that mothers experiencing predation risk increase production of unviable trophic eggs, which assures provisioning of an egg meal to the newly hatched offspring. Next, we experimentally demonstrated that egg cannibalism reducesL. decemlineatavulnerability to predation by improving larval nutritional condition and expression of anti‐predator responses. Intraclutch cannibalism in herbivorous insects might be a ubiquitous strategy, aimed to overcome the dual challenge of feeding on protein‐limited diets while living under constant predation threat.
Food webs obscure the strength of plant diversity effects on primary productivity
Authors: Seabloom Eric W. , Kinkel Linda , Borer Elizabeth T. , Hautier Yann , Montgomery Rebecca A. , Tilman David
Published: March 2017

Plant diversity experiments generally find that increased diversity causes increased productivity; however, primary productivity is typically measured in the presence of a diverse food web, including pathogens, mutualists and herbivores. If food web impacts on productivity vary with plant diversity, as predicted by both theoretical and empirical studies, estimates of the effect of plant diversity on productivity may be biased. We experimentally removed arthropods, foliar fungi and soil fungi from the longest‐running plant diversity experiment. We found that fungi and arthropods removed a constant, large proportion of biomass leading to a greater reduction of total biomass in high diversity plots. As a result, the effect of diversity on measured plant productivity was much higher in the absence of fungi and arthropods. Thus, diversity increases productivity more than reported in previous studies that did not control for the effects of heterotrophic consumption.
Calcitonin as a potential tumour marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma in an 11‐year‐old Spanish Pure Bred gelding with two independent carcinomas
Authors: Dittus N. , Hahn K. , Stokar‐Regenscheit N. , Gerber V. , Unger L.
Published: March 2017

An 11‐year‐old Spanish Pure Bred gelding was evaluated for progressive weight loss and exercise intolerance. An ante‐mortem biopsy and post‐mortem histopathological examination of the duodenum revealed a duodenal adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, a medullary thyroid carcinoma of the left thyroid gland and multiple bilateral follicular thyroid adenomas were diagnosed post‐mortem. Serum concentration of calcitonin in this case was markedly increased in comparison to two breed and age matched control horses. This case report shows the rare and independent occurrence of two different types of carcinomas in one horse and highlights the diagnostic value of calcitonin measurements for diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma in horses.
Pharmacological treatments in asthma‐affected horses: A pair‐wise and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Calzetta L. , Roncada P. , di Cave D. , Bonizzi L. , Urbani A. , Pistocchini E. , Rogliani P. , Matera M. G.
Published: March 2017

Background

Equine asthma is a disease characterised by reversible airflow obstruction, bronchial hyper‐responsiveness and airway inflammation following exposure of susceptible horses to specific airborne agents. Although clinical remission can be achieved in a low‐airborne dust environment, repeated exacerbations may lead to irreversible airway remodelling. The available data on the pharmacotherapy of equine asthma result from several small studies, and no head‐to‐head clinical trials have been conducted among the available medications.

Objectives

To assess the impact of the pharmacological interventions in equine asthma and compare the effect of different classes of drugs on lung function.

Study design

Pair‐wise and network meta‐analysis.

Methods

Literature searches for clinical trials on the pharmacotherapy of equine asthma were performed. The risk of publication bias was assessed by funnel plots and Egger's test. Changes in maximum transpulmonary or pleural pressure, pulmonary resistance and dynamic lung compliance vs. control were analysed via random‐effects models and Bayesian networks.

Results

The results obtained from 319 equine asthma‐affected horses were extracted from 32 studies. Bronchodilators, corticosteroids and chromones improved maximum transpulmonary or pleural pressure (range: −8.0 to −21.4 cmH2O; P<0.001). Bronchodilators, corticosteroids and furosemide reduced pulmonary resistance (range: −1.2 to −1.9 cmH2O/L/s; P<0.001), and weakly increased dynamic lung compliance. Inhaled β2‐adrenoreceptor (β2‐AR) agonists and inhaled corticosteroids had the highest probability of being the best therapies. Long‐term treatments were more effective than short‐term treatments.

Main limitations

Weak publication bias was detected.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that long‐term treatments with inhaled corticosteroids and long‐acting β2‐AR agonists may represent the first choice for treating equine asthma. Further high quality clinical trials are needed to clarify whether inhaled bronchodilators should be preferred to inhaled corticosteroids or vice versa, and to investigate the potential superiority of combination therapy in equine asthma.
Half a century of genetic interaction between farmed and wild Atlantic salmon: Status of knowledge and unanswered questions
Authors: Glover Kevin A , Solberg Monica F , McGinnity Phil , Hindar Kjetil , Verspoor Eric , Coulson Mark W , Hansen Michael M , Araki Hitoshi , Skaala Øystein , Svåsand Terje
Published: March 2017

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is one of the best researched fishes, and its aquaculture plays a global role in the blue revolution. However, since the 1970s, tens of millions of farmed salmon have escaped into the wild. We review current knowledge of genetic interactions and identify the unanswered questions. Native salmon populations are typically genetically distinct from each other and potentially locally adapted. Farmed salmon represent a limited number of wild source populations that have been exposed to ≥12 generations of domestication. Consequently, farmed and wild salmon differ in many traits including molecular‐genetic polymorphisms, growth, morphology, life history, behaviour, physiology and gene transcription. Field experiments have demonstrated that the offspring of farmed salmon display lower lifetime fitness in the wild than wild salmon and that following introgression, there is a reduced production of genetically wild salmon and, potentially, of total salmon production. It is a formidable task to estimate introgression of farmed salmon in wild populations where they are not exotic. New methods have revealed introgression in half of ~150 Norwegian populations, with point estimates as high as 47%, and an unweighted average of 6.4% across 109 populations. Outside Norway, introgression remains unquantified, and in all regions, biological changes and the mechanisms driving population‐specific impacts remain poorly documented. Nevertheless, existing knowledge shows that the long‐term consequences of introgression is expected to lead to changes in life‐history traits, reduced population productivity and decreased resilience to future challenges. Only a major reduction in the number of escapees and/or sterility of farmed salmon can eliminate further impacts.
The Experiences of Sexual Minority Mothers with Trans* Children
Authors: Kuvalanka Katherine A. , Allen Samuel H. , Munroe Cat , Goldberg Abbie E. , Weiner Judith L.
Published: March 2017

Eight nonheterosexual (i.e., bisexual, lesbian, bi/pansexual) mothers with trans* children between 6 and 11 years of age participated in semistructured interviews in which they discussed the intersections of their own sexual minority identities with their children's gender identities or expressions. Transfamily theory was utilized to understand how heteronormativity and cisnormativity operated in these families' lives. Initial lack of awareness among most of the mothers regarding trans* identities, as well as efforts by some to curb their children's gender expressions, paralleled previous reports on primarily heterosexual parents with trans* children. Having sexual minority identities and experience with LGBTQ communities was beneficial for some mothers but seemingly disadvantageous for others, in that some experienced blame for their children's trans* statuses, often due to the fact that these mothers identified as queer themselves. Findings reveal complexities in how participants were influenced by heteronormativity and cisnormativity and have implications for those looking to learn more about queer parents' experiences raising their trans* children.