bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of ADAM10 metalloprotease as a Bacillus thuringiensis Cry3Aa toxin functional receptor in Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata)
Authors: Ruiz‐Arroyo V. M. , García‐Robles I. , Ochoa‐Campuzano C. , Goig G. A. , Zaitseva E. , Baaken G. , Martínez‐Ramírez A. C. , Rausell C. , Real M. D.
Published: December 2016

Bacillus thuringiensis parasporal crystal proteins (Cry proteins) are insecticidal pore‐forming toxins that bind to specific receptor molecules on the brush border membrane of susceptible insect midgut cells to exert their toxic action. In the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), a coleopteran pest, we previously proposed that interaction of Cry3Aa toxin with a CPB ADAM10 metalloprotease is an essential part of the mode of action of this toxin. Here, we annotated the gene sequence encoding an ADAM10 metalloprotease protein (CPB‐ADAM10) in the CPB genome sequencing project, and using RNA interference gene silencing we demonstrated that CPB‐ADAM10 is a Cry3Aa toxin functional receptor in CPB. Cry3Aa toxicity was significantly lower in CPB‐ADAM10 silenced larvae and in vitro toxin pore‐forming ability was greatly diminished in lipid planar bilayers fused with CPB brush border membrane vesicles (BBMVs) prepared from CPB‐ADAM10 silenced larvae. In accordance with our previous data that indicated this toxin was a substrate of ADAM10 in CPB, Cry3Aa toxin membrane‐associated proteolysis was altered when CPB BBMVs lacked ADAM10. The functional validation of CPB‐ADAM10 as a Cry3Aa toxin receptor in CPB expands the already recognized role of ADAM10 as a pathogenicity determinant of pore‐forming toxins in humans to an invertebrate species.
Chronic oedema: a prevalent health care problem for UK health services
Authors: Moffatt Christine J , Keeley Vaughan , Franks Peter J , Rich Anna , Pinnington Lorraine L
Published: December 2016

Chronic oedema (CO) is a major clinical problem worldwide, which has many important secondary consequences for health, activity and participation. Effective treatment planning and organisation of services is dependent on an understanding of the condition and its epidemiology. This cross‐sectional study was designed to estimate the point prevalence of CO within the health services of one UK urban population and to determine the proportions that have concurrent leg ulceration.

Patients with CO in all anatomic sites were ascertained by health care professionals in one acute and one community hospital, all relevant outpatient and community nursing services, general practices and all nursing/residential homes in one urban catchment area (Derby City). The presence and distribution of oedema was confirmed through a brief clinical examination. A battery of demographic and clinical details was recorded for each case.

Within the study population of Derby City residents, 971 patients were identified with CO [estimated crude prevalence 3·93 per 1000, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3·69–4·19]. The prevalence was the highest among those aged 85 or above (28·75 per 1000) and was higher among women (5·37 per 1000) than men (2·48 per 1000). The prevalence among hospital inpatients was 28·5%. Only five (3%) patients in the community population had oedema related to cancer or cancer treatment. Of the 304 patients identified with oedema from the Derby hospitals or community health services, 121 (40%) had a concurrent leg ulcer.

Prevalence statistics and current demographic trends indicate that CO is a major and growing health care problem.
Antihypertensive medication adherence and blood pressure control among central Alabama veterans
Authors: Piercefield Emily W. , Howard Molly E. , Robinson Michael H. , Kirk Cain Eric , Ragan Addison P. , Reese Sondra D.
Published: December 2016

Medication nonadherence is associated with adverse outcomes. To evaluate antihypertensive medication adherence and its association with blood pressure (BP) control, the authors described population adherence to prescribed antihypertensive medication (proportion of days covered ≥80%) and BP control (mean BP <140/90 mm Hg) among central Alabama veterans during the fiscal year 2015. Overall, 75.1% of patients receiving antihypertensive medication were considered adherent, and 66.1% had adequate BP control. Patients adherent to antihypertensive medication were more likely to have adequate BP control compared with patients classified as nonadherent (67.4% vs 62.0%; adjusted odds ratio 1.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.22–1.44 [P<.0001]). Among patients who had uncontrolled BP, 73.6% were considered adherent to medication. Adherence to antihypertensive medication was associated with adequate BP control; however, a substantial proportion of patients with inadequate BP control were also considered adherent. Interventions to increase BP control could address more aggressive medication management to achieve BP goals.
Periodontitis is not associated with metabolic risk during the fourth decade of life
Authors: Shearer Dara M. , Thomson W. Murray , Broadbent Jonathan M. , Mann Jim , Poulton Richie
Published: December 2016

Aim

To examine associations between periodontitis and developmental trajectories of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) during the third and fourth decades in an initially healthy sample.

Materials and methods

HbA1c data collected at ages 26, 32 and 38 in the prospective Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study were used to assign study members (n = 893) to trajectories applying group‐based trajectory modelling (GBTM). The model allowed the statistical linking of baseline demographic, smoking and waist‐height ratio covariates to group membership probability; and added a time‐varying covariate (periodontitis) to the trajectories themselves to examine whether events that occurred during the course of the trajectory altered its course.

Results

Three HbA1c trajectory groups were identified: “Low” (n = 98, 11.0%); “Medium” (n = 482, 54.0%); and “High” (n = 313, 35.0%) with mean HbA1c of 29.6, 34.1 and 38.7 mmol/mol, respectively, at age 38. Having periodontitis at 32 and 38 was associated with an upward shift in the trajectories. However, none of the associations were statistically significant.

Conclusions

Periodontitis was not found to be associated with dysglycaemia over 12 years from early adulthood into early middle age. This suggests that any influence periodontitis may have on dysglycaemia develops later in life.
A harsh parenting team? Maternal reports of coparenting and coercive parenting interact in association with children's disruptive behaviour
Authors: Latham Rachel M. , Mark Katharine M. , Oliver Bonamy R.
Published: December 2016

Background

Parenting and coparenting are both important for children's adjustment, but their interaction has been little explored. Using a longitudinal design and considering two children per family, we investigated mothers’ and fathers’ perceptions of coparenting as moderators of associations between their coercive parenting and children's disruptive behaviour.

Methods

Mothers and fathers from 106 ‘intact’ families were included from the Twins, Family and Behaviour study. At Time 1 (Mchild age = 3 years 11 months, SDchild age = 4.44 months) parents reported on their coercive parenting and children's disruptive behaviour via questionnaire; at Time 2 (Mchild age = 4 years 8 months, SDchild age = 4.44 months) perceptions of coparenting and the marital relationship were collected by telephone interview. Questionnaire‐based reports of children's disruptive behaviour were collected at follow‐up (Mchild age = 5 years 11 months, SDchild age = 5.52 months). Multilevel modelling was used to examine child‐specific and family‐wide effects.

Results

Conservative multilevel models including both maternal and paternal perceptions demonstrated that maternal perceptions of coparenting and overall coercive parenting interacted in their prediction of parent‐reported child disruptive behaviour. Specifically, accounting for perceived marital quality, behavioural stability, and fathers’ perceptions, only in the context of perceived higher quality coparenting was there a positive association between mother‐reported overall coercive parenting and children's disruptive behaviour at follow‐up.

Conclusions

When combined with highly coercive parenting, maternal perceptions of high quality coparenting may be detrimental for children's adjustment.
Observed fearlessness and positive parenting interact to predict childhood callous‐unemotional behaviors among low‐income boys
Authors: Waller Rebecca , Shaw Daniel S. , Hyde Luke W.
Published: December 2016

Background

Callous‐unemotional behaviors identify children at risk for severe and chronic antisocial behavior. Research is needed to establish pathways from temperament and parenting factors that give rise to callous‐unemotional behaviors, including interactions of positive versus harsh parenting with child fearlessness.

Methods

Multimethod data, including parent reports and observations of parent and child behavior, were drawn from a prospective, longitudinal sample of low‐income boys (N = 310) with assessments at 18, 24, and 42 months, and at ages 10–12 years old.

Results

Parent‐reported callous‐unemotional, oppositional, and attention‐deficit factors were separable at 42 months. Callous‐unemotional behaviors at 42 months predicted callous‐unemotional behaviors at ages 10–12, accounting for earlier oppositional and attention‐deficit behaviors and self‐reported child delinquency at ages 10–12. Observations of fearlessness at 24 months predicted callous‐unemotional behaviors at 42 months, but only when parents exhibited low observed levels of positive parenting. The interaction of fearlessness and low positive parenting indirectly predicted callous‐unemotional behaviors at 10–12 via callous‐unemotional behaviors at 42 months.

Conclusions

Early fearlessness interacts with low positive parenting to predict early callous‐unemotional behaviors, with lasting effects of this person‐by‐context interaction on callous‐unemotional behaviors into late childhood.
Decision‐Making Regarding Mammography Screening for Older Women
Authors: Schonberg Mara A.
Published: December 2016

The population is aging, and breast cancer incidence increases with age, peaking between the ages of 75 and 79. However, it is not known whether mammography screening helps women aged 75 and older live longer because they have not been included in randomized controlled trials evaluating mammography screening. Guidelines recommend that older women with less than a 10‐year life expectancy not be screened because it takes approximately 10 years before a screen‐detected breast cancer may affect an older woman's survival. Guidelines recommend that clinicians discuss the benefits and risks of screening with women aged 75 and older with a life expectancy of 10 years or longer to help them elicit their values and preferences. It is estimated that two of 1,000 women who continue to be screened every other year from age 70 to 79 may avoid breast cancer death, but 12% to 27% of these women will experience a false‐positive test, and 10% to 20% of women who experience a false‐positive test will undergo a breast biopsy. In addition, approximately 30% of screen‐detected cancers would not otherwise have shown up in an older woman's lifetime, yet nearly all older women undergo treatment for these breast cancers, and the risks of treatment increase with age. To inform decision‐making, tools are available to estimate life expectancy and to educate older women about the benefits and harms of mammography screening. Guides are also available to help clinicians discuss stopping screening with older women with less than a 10‐year life expectancy. Ideally, screening decisions would consider an older woman's life expectancy, breast cancer risk, and her values and preferences.
Urinary Incontinence in Older Women: The Role of Body Composition and Muscle Strength: From the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study
Authors: Suskind Anne M. , Cawthon Peggy M. , Nakagawa Sanae , Subak Leslee L. , Reinders Ilse , Satterfield Suzanne , Cummings Steve , Cauley Jane A. , Harris Tamara , Huang Alison J. ,   Health ABC Study
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To evaluate prospective relationships between body composition and muscle strength with predominantly stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) in older women.

Design

Prospective community‐dwelling observational cohort study (Health, Aging, and Body Composition study).

Participants

Women initially aged 70 to 79 recruited from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Memphis, Tennessee (N = 1,475).

Measurements

Urinary incontinence was assessed using structured questionnaires. Body mass index (BMI), grip strength, quadriceps torque, and walking speed were assessed using physical examination and performance testing. Appendicular lean body mass (ALM) and whole‐body fat mass were measured using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry.

Results

At baseline, 212 (14%) women reported at least monthly predominantly SUI and 233 (16%) at least monthly predominantly UUI. At 3 years, of 1,137 women, 164 (14%) had new or persistent SUI, and 320 (28%) had new or persistent UUI. Women had greater odds of new or persistent SUI if they demonstrated a 5% or greater decrease in grip strength, (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.60, P = .047) and lower odds of new or persistent SUI if they demonstrated a 5% or greater decrease in BMI (AOR = 0.46, P = .01), a 5% or greater increase in ALM corrected for BMI (AOR = 0.17, P = .004), or a 5% or greater decrease in fat mass (AOR = 0.53, P = .01). Only a 5% or greater increase in walking speed was associated with new or persistent UUI over 3 years (AOR = 1.54, P = .04).

Conclusion

In women aged 70 and older, changes in body composition and grip strength were associated with changes in SUI frequency over time. In contrast, changes in these factors did not influence UUI. Findings suggest that optimization of body composition and muscle strength is more likely to modify risk of SUI than of UUI in older women.
Functional Outcomes After Transurethral Resection of the Prostate in Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Suskind Anne M. , Walter Louise C. , Zhao Shoujun , Finlayson Emily
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To understand outcomes of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or transurethral laser incision of the prostate (TULIP) for the treatment of bladder outlet obstruction in men with high levels of functional dependence, which are poorly understood.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

U.S. nursing homes (NHs).

Participants

Male NH residents aged 65 and older who underwent TURP or TULIP in the United States between 2005 and 2008 (N = 2,869).

Measurements

Changes in activities of daily living (ADLs), Foley catheter status, and survival up to 12 months after surgery were examined. Multivariate regression was used to determine risk of having a Foley catheter 1 year after surgery.

Results

Sixty‐one percent of the cohort had a Foley catheter before the procedure. Of men with a Foley catheter at baseline, 64% had a Foley catheter, 4% had no Foley catheter, and 32% had died by 1‐year after the procedure. Having a Foley catheter at baseline (risk ratio (RR) = 1.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.29–1.50) and poor baseline functional status (RR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.18–1.52 for individuals in the worst quartile of function) were associated with greater risk of having a Foley catheter at 1‐year.

Conclusion

Poor baseline functional status and having a Foley catheter preoperatively were associated with greater risk of TURP or TULIP failure, as measured by the presence of a Foley catheter at 1 year. Preoperative measurement of ADLs may aid in surgical decision‐making in this population.
Defining the radiation chemistry during liquid cell electron microscopy to enable visualization of nanomaterial growth and degradation dynamics
Authors: WOEHL T.J. , ABELLAN P.
Published: December 2016

We present a critical review of methods for defining the chemical environment during liquid cell electron microscopy investigation of electron beam induced nanomaterial growth and degradation. We draw from the radiation chemistry and liquid cell electron microscopy literature to present solution chemistry and electron beam–based methods for selecting the radiolysis products formed and their relative amount during electron irradiation of liquid media in a transmission electron microscope. We outline various methods for establishing net oxidizing or net reducing reaction environments and propose solvents with minimal overall production of radicals under the electron beam. Exemplary liquid cell electron microscopy experiments in the fields of nanoparticle nucleation, growth, and degradation along with recommendations for best practices and experimental parameters are reported. We expect this review will provide researchers with a useful toolkit for designing general chemistry and materials science liquid cell electron microscopy experiments by ‘directing’ the effect of the electron beam to understand fundamental mechanisms of dynamic nanoscale processes as well as minimizing radiation damage to samples.
Handwriting difficulties of children with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type 1A
Authors: Kunovsky Daniel , Cordier Reinie , Bray Paula , Burns Joshua
Published: December 2016

Hand weakness and impaired manual dexterity have been reported in children with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A). This early onset of upper limb involvement might explain frequent clinical referrals for assessment and treatment of impaired handwriting performance. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of CMT1A on handwriting speed and legibility, and identify demographic, anthropometric, and physical measures that might relate to handwriting performance. Handwriting speed (Handwriting Speed Test), handwriting legibility (Evaluation Tool of Children's Handwriting‐Cursive), and hand strength (hand‐held dynamometry of tip pinch, lateral pinch and grip) were assessed in 30 children with CMT1A (aged 8–17 years) and 30 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Children with CMT1A exhibited 34% slower handwriting speed (p < 0.0001) with 4% reduced legibility (p = 0.001) and 37–48% lower hand strength (p < 0.0001). All measures of strength, age, height, and weight were positively associated with handwriting speed (r = 0.39–0.79, p < 0.01). None of these factors related to handwriting legibility (p > 0.05). Regression modelling identified a diagnosis of CMT1A, lateral pinch weakness and younger age as significant independent predictors of slower handwriting speed, explaining 78% of the variance. Children with CMT1A have considerable handwriting difficulties, primarily with speed, and substantial associated hand and finger weakness. Understanding the cause–effect relationship between strength and function might provide modifiable targets for upper limb intervention.
Nurses’ comfort level with spiritual assessment: a study among nurses working in diverse healthcare settings
Authors: Cone Pamela H , Giske Tove
Published: December 2016

Aims and objectives

To gain knowledge about nurses’ comfort level in assessing spiritual matters and to learn what questions nurses use in practice related to spiritual assessment.

Background

Spirituality is important in holistic nursing care; however, nurses report feeling uncomfortable and ill‐prepared to address this domain with patients. Education is reported to impact nurses’ ability to engage in spiritual care.

Design

This cross‐sectional exploratory survey reports on a mixed‐method study examining how comfortable nurses are with spiritual assessment.

Method

In 2014, a 21‐item survey with 10 demographic variables and three open‐ended questions were distributed to Norwegian nurses working in diverse care settings with 172 nurse responses (72 % response rate). SPSS was used to analyse quantitative data; thematic analysis examined the open‐ended questions.

Results/Findings

Norwegian nurses reported a high level of comfort with most questions even though spirituality is seen as private. Nurses with some preparation or experience in spiritual care were most comfortable assessing spirituality. Statistically significant correlations were found between the nurses’ comfort level with spiritual assessment and their preparedness and sense of the importance of spiritual assessment. How well‐prepared nurses felt was related to years of experience, degree of spirituality and religiosity, and importance of spiritual assessment.

Conclusion

Many nurses are poorly prepared for spiritual assessment and care among patients in diverse care settings; educational preparation increases their comfort level with facilitating such care. Nurses who feel well prepared with spirituality feel more comfortable with the spiritual domain.

Relevance to clinical practice

By fostering a culture where patients’ spirituality is discussed and reflected upon in everyday practice and in continued education, nurses’ sense of preparedness, and thus their level of comfort, can increase. Clinical supervision and interprofessional collaboration with hospital chaplains and/or other spiritual leaders can facilitate tailor spiritual assessment of patients based on patient concerns and view of life.
The Intergenerational Transmission of Union Instability in Early Adulthood
Authors: Amato Paul R. , Patterson Sarah E.
Published: December 2016

Research on the intergenerational transmission of divorce should be expanded to incorporate disrupted nonmarital cohabitations. This study (a) examined the transmission of union instability from parents to offspring using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, (b) replaced binary variables (divorced vs. nondivorced) typically used in this literature with count variables (number of disrupted unions), (c) relied on independent sources for data on parents' and offspring's union disruptions to minimize same‐source bias, (d) assessed the mediating role of theoretically derived variables (many not previously considered in this literature), and (e) incorporated information on discord in intact parental unions. Parent and offspring union disruptions were positively linked, with each parental disruption associated with a 16% increase in the number of offspring disruptions, net of controls. The mediators collectively accounted for 44% of the estimated intergenerational effect. Parent discord in intact unions was associated with more offspring disruptions.
LOCATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: INSIGHTS FROM A SPATIALLY‐EXPLICIT OCCUPATIONAL CHOICE MODEL WITH AN APPLICATION TO CHILE
Authors: Modrego Félix , McCann Philip , Foster William E. , Olfert M. Rose
Published: December 2016

Occupational choice and heterogeneous managerial ability enter a spatial Dixit‐Stiglitz setting, linking location, wages and regional entrepreneurship rates. Market potential has a positive partial effect and wages a negative partial effect on the regional supply of entrepreneurs, both balancing in equilibrium with endogenous wages. Market potential increases profits, but also the opportunity cost of entrepreneurship. In the long‐run equilibrium with perfect mobility, the cut‐off level of ability determining selection into entrepreneurship will be the same across regions; moreover, regional differences in entrepreneurship rates depend only in differences in average fixed costs of firms. An empirical application is provided for Chile.
Germacrone inhibits adipogenesis and stimulates lipolysis via the AMP-activated protein kinase signalling pathway in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes
Authors: Guo Yuan-Ri , Choung Se-Young
Published: December 2016

Objectives

In a previous study, we reported that Aster spathulifolius Maxim extract (ASE) inhibited lipid accumulation and adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells. Of the components in ASE, germacrone (GM) was identified as a potent bioactive constituent. GM is known for its anticancer and antiviral activity. However, the effects of GM and the molecular mechanism by which GM regulates adipogenesis and lipolysis were not reported. Therefore, we investigated the effect of GM on adipogenesis and lipolysis and to elucidate its underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

We analysed the contents of intracellular triglyceride and carried out Western blotting and RT-qPCR to investigate the underlying mechanism.

Key findings

We demonstrate that GM suppresses adipogenic differentiation and the increase in lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells. In particular, GM down-regulates the expression of early adipogenesis-related genes (e.g. KLF4, KLF5, C/EBP-β and C/EBP-δ) and major adipogenesis-related genes (C/EBP-α and PPAR-γ). Furthermore, GM increases the protein levels of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα), phosphorylated acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT1).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that GM may be a potent bioactive anti-adipogenic and lipolytic constituent via the regulation of adipogenesis, lipolysis and the AMPKα pathway.
Expressive Vocabulary Development in Children With Down Syndrome: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kaat‐van den Os Danielle te , Volman Chiel , Jongmans Marian , Lauteslager Peter
Published: December 2016

Children with Down syndrome (DS) show a significant delay in their language development, in particular in expressive language. Although many studies have described the development of spoken language skills of children with DS, not many investigated the development of gestures and spoken words more in detail. The aim of this study was to describe the expressive vocabulary development of young children with DS with regard to the nature of vocabulary growth and modality (gesture‐ and/or verbal production). In addition, the association between cognitive development and vocabulary growth was examined. The study included 26 children with DS aged between 18 and 24 months (age at start: M = 19.5, SD = 2.1). Expressive vocabulary growth (gestures and spoken words) was longitudinally followed over an 18‐month period based on monthly administrations of the Lexi questionnaire. Cognition was determined with the Cognition Scale of the Bayley‐III‐NL. First, three different vocabulary growth patterns were observed: marginal vocabulary growth (n = 8), vocabulary growth without a spurt (n = 9), and vocabulary growth spurt (n = 9). The average level of cognition of the group of children with a marginal vocabulary growth pattern was significantly lower compared to that of the other two growth pattern groups. Second, between the age of 18 and 33 months, two different modality profiles were observed: predominant use of gestures (G), and use of gestures plus spoken words (GS). Two children changed from a G profile to a GS profile, two children changed from a GS profile to a predominant spoken word (S) profile. In line with earlier studies, the present study underscores the individual variability in expressive vocabulary growth patterns, and in modality profiles of children with DS. The relation of these individual differences to the children's level of cognition, as well as the relation between the different growth patterns and the different modality profiles are discussed.
Effect of curry leaf and clove bud essential oils on textural and oxidative stability of chill stored sutchi catfish fillets
Authors: Binsi P. K. , Ninan George , Ravishankar C. N.
Published: December 2016

Effect of coating with curry leaf and clove essential oils (EO) on oxidative and textural stability of sutchi catfish fillets were evaluated during chilled storage. The changes in parameters associated with textural and lipid degradation was also evaluated to ascertain the interactive effect of polyphenols with muscle proteins. Further, the results were compared against vacuum and conventional polyethylene packaging practices. Prior to coating, the properties of antioxidants were evaluated in vitro based on total phenolic and flavonoid contents, 2, 2‐diphenyl‐1‐ picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation, iron reducing power, and metal chelating ability. Coating with clove bud EO was found to be more effective in protecting the textural quality and retarding lipid oxidation of the fillets during chilled storage. Curry leaf EO was found to have only moderate effect.

Practical applications

In addition to the well‐studied antibacterial and antioxidant properties, plant polyphenols have become an intense focus of research for their ability to cross‐link proteins that widens their applications for textural and functional modification of food and beverages. Currently, a number of carcinogenic chemicals such as ammonia and formalin are hazardously used to prevent texture deterioration in chilled fish associated with post‐rigor changes and microbial reactions. This study evaluates the efficacy of polyphenols present in culinary herbs such as clove bud and curry leaf EO, in stabilising the texture of fish meat during chilled storage. From the results, it could be inferred that both the EO at 0.25% level mediated protein cross‐linking/complexation and maintained textural integrity during chilled storage apart from exhibiting antioxidant activities.
Determination of hepatitis B phenotype using biochemical and serological markers
Authors: Di Bisceglie A. M. , Lombardero M. , Teckman J. , Roberts L. , Janssen H. L. A. , Belle S. H. , Hoofnagle J. H. ,   the Hepatitis B Research Network (HBRN)
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to assess the validity of categorization of chronic hepatitis B viral infection into stages or phases based upon measures of disease activity and viral load, assuming these phenotypes will be useful for prognostication and determining the need for antiviral therapy. We assessed the phenotype of hepatitis B of 1,390 adult participants enrolled in the Hepatitis B Research Network Cohort Study, using a computer algorithm. Only 4% were immune tolerant, while 35% had chronic hepatitis B (18% e antigen positive and 17% e antigen negative) while 23% were inactive carriers. Strikingly, 38% of participants did not fit clearly into any one of these groups and were considered indeterminant. The largest subset of indeterminants had elevated serum aminotransferases with low levels of HBV DNA (less than 10,000 iu/mL). Subsequent determination of hepatitis B phenotype on the next available laboratory tests showed that 64% remained indeterminant. These findings call into question the validity of conventional staging of hepatitis B, in large part because of the substantial proportion of patients who do not fit readily into one of the usual stages or phases. Further studies are needed of the indeterminant category of chronic hepatitis B viral infection, including assessments of whether patients in this group are perhaps in transition to another phase or if they are a distinct phenotype with a need to assess liver disease severity and need for antiviral therapy. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01263587).
Winter sleep with room service: denning behaviour of brown bears with access to anthropogenic food
Authors: Krofel M. , Špacapan M. , Jerina K.
Published: December 2016

Large quantities of food subsidies provided by humans to animal communities have the potential to change a variety of animal life traits, including denning behaviour of facultative hibernators like bears. Brown bears Ursus arctos regularly use anthropogenic food, but it has remained unclear if human food subsidies affect their hibernation and denning behaviour, despite the consequences this could have for bear interactions with humans and other species. We studied denning behaviour of European brown bears in Slovenia, where intensive supplemental feeding with corn is practiced throughout the year, including winter. We used GPS telemetry data to locate den sites and to monitor bear denning chronology. We conducted a meta‐analysis to compare our results with other bear populations across Europe, Asia and North America. A consistent relationship between latitude and time spent denning was observed for male and female brown bears across the species’ range (for each degree of latitude northwards, denning period increased for 3.1 days), and males on average denned 10.3 days longer than females throughout the latitudinal gradient. However, our study area deviated strongly from regions where supplemental feeding was not practiced. In Slovenia, denning period averaged 82 days for females and 57 days for males, which was 45 and 56% shorter compared to the time predicted for this latitude, respectively. We also observed regular den abandonments (61% of bears abandoned dens, on average 1.9 times per winter). During the winter period bears increased use of supplemental feeding sites for 61% compared to the non‐denning period. We conclude that the availability of anthropogenic food is an important driver of denning behaviour in brown bears. Reduction in the denning period increases the potential for bear interactions with other species, including humans, and we highlight possible management and ecological implications of this human‐caused perturbation to denning behaviour of wild ursids.
Constructing International Crime: Lawyers, States, and the Origin of International Criminal Prosecution in the Interwar Period
Authors: Holthoefer Anne
Published: December 2016

This article explains the development of international crime as a legal category. I argue that states' pursuit of political rights claims empowers international lawyers to develop new legal categories to grant states new tools to pursue their interests. At the same time, lawyers have a stake in defending the autonomy of law from politics, thus pushing for the development of legal norms and institutions that go beyond the original state intent. States' turn to law thus begets more law, expanding the legal and institutional tools to solve international problems while simultaneously enforcing a commitment to principles of legality. To demonstrate the plausibility of the theory, the article studies the construction of the concept of an international crime in the interwar period (1919–1939). In response to the Allies' attempt to prosecute the German Emperor, international lawyers sought the codification of international criminal law and drafted enforcement mechanisms. The interwar legal debate not only introduced international crime into the legal and political vocabulary, it also legitimized a new set of institutional responses to violations of international law, namely, international criminal prosecution.
Holmes’ tremor caused by coexisting Parkinson's disease in a case of spinocerebellar ataxia type 31
Authors: Shimizu Kazutaka , Hanajima Ritsuko , Satou Sumito , Shimizu Takahiro , Watanabe Katsushige , Kaneko Atsushi , Iizuka Takahiro , Nishiyama Kazutoshi
Published: December 2016

Holmes’ tremor is a low‐frequency resting and intention tremor. Here, we report a case of spinocerebellar ataxia type 31 with an unusual presentation of Holmes’ tremor. We traced it to the development of Parkinson's disease in the patient. L‐dopa was insufficient for tremor, but zonisamide and ventralis intermedius thalamotomy were effective. Both cerebellar and dopaminergic system damage are thus required to express Holmes’ tremor.
The Hemileia vastatrix effector HvEC‐016 suppresses bacterial blight symptoms in coffee genotypes with the SH1 rust resistance gene
Authors: Maia Thiago , Badel Jorge L. , Marin‐Ramirez Gustavo , Rocha Cynthia de M. , Fernandes Michelle B. , da Silva José C. F. , de Azevedo‐Junior Gilson M. , Brommonschenkel Sérgio H.
Published: December 2016

A number of genes that confer resistance to coffee leaf rust (SH1–SH9) have been identified within the genus Coffea, but despite many years of research on this pathosystem, the complementary avirulence genes of Hemileia vastatrix have not been reported.

After identification of H. vastatrix effector candidate genes (HvECs) expressed at different stages of its lifecycle, we established an assay to characterize HvEC proteins by delivering them into coffee cells via the type‐three secretion system (T3SS) of Pseudomonas syringae pv. garcae (Psgc).

Employing a calmodulin‐dependent adenylate cyclase assay, we demonstrate that Psgc recognizes a heterologous P. syringae T3SS secretion signal which enables us to translocate HvECs into the cytoplasm of coffee cells. Using this Psgc‐adapted effector detector vector (EDV) system, we found that HvEC‐016 suppresses the growth of Psgc on coffee genotypes with the SH1 resistance gene. Suppression of bacterial blight symptoms in SH1 plants was associated with reduced bacterial multiplication. By contrast, HvEC‐016 enhanced bacterial multiplication in SH1‐lacking plants.

Our findings suggest that HvEC‐016 may be recognized by the plant immune system in a SH1‐dependent manner. Thus, our experimental approach is an effective tool for the characterization of effector/avirulence proteins of this important pathogen.
Dominant mycorrhizal association of trees alters carbon and nutrient cycling by selecting for microbial groups with distinct enzyme function
Authors: Cheeke Tanya E. , Phillips Richard P. , Brzostek Edward R. , Rosling Anna , Bever James D. , Fransson Petra
Published: December 2016

While it is well established that plants associating with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi cycle carbon (C) and nutrients in distinct ways, we have a limited understanding of whether varying abundance of ECM and AM plants in a stand can provide integrative proxies for key biogeochemical processes.

We explored linkages between the relative abundance of AM and ECM trees and microbial functioning in three hardwood forests in southern Indiana, USA. Across each site's ‘mycorrhizal gradient’, we measured fungal biomass, fungal : bacterial (F : B) ratios, extracellular enzyme activities, soil carbon : nitrogen ratio, and soil pH over a growing season.

We show that the percentage of AM or ECM trees in a plot promotes microbial communities that both reflect and determine the C to nutrient balance in soil. Soils dominated by ECM trees had higher F : B ratios and more standing fungal biomass than AM stands. Enzyme stoichiometry in ECM soils shifted to higher investment in extracellular enzymes needed for nitrogen and phosphorus acquisition than in C‐acquisition enzymes, relative to AM soils.

Our results suggest that knowledge of mycorrhizal dominance at the stand or landscape scale may provide a unifying framework for linking plant and microbial community dynamics, and predicting their effects on ecological function.
Fungal–algal association patterns in lichen symbiosis linked to macroclimate
Authors: Singh Garima , Dal Grande Francesco , Divakar Pradeep K. , Otte Jürgen , Crespo Ana , Schmitt Imke
Published: December 2016

Both macroclimate and evolutionary events may influence symbiont association and diversity patterns. Here we assess how climatic factors and evolutionary events shape fungal–algal association patterns in the widely distributed lichen‐forming fungal genus Protoparmelia.

Multilocus phylogenies of fungal and algal partners were generated using 174 specimens. Coalescent‐based species delimitation analysis suggested that 23 fungal hosts are associating with 20 algal species. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to infer how fungal–algal association patterns varied with climate.

Fungi associated with one to three algal partners whereas algae accepted one to five fungal partners. Both fungi and algae were more specific, associating with fewer partners, in the warmer climates. Interaction with more than one partner was more frequent in cooler climates for both the partners. Cophylogenetic analyses suggest congruent fungal–algal phylogenies. Host switch was a more common event in warm climates, whereas failure of the photobiont to diverge with its fungal host was more frequent in cooler climates.

We conclude that both environmental factors and evolutionary events drive fungal and algal evolution in Protoparmelia. The processes leading to phylogenetic congruence of fungi and algae are different in different macrohabitats in our study system. Hence, closely related species inhabiting diverse habitats may follow different evolutionary pathways.
Evolvix BEST Names for semantic reproducibility across code2brain interfaces
Authors: Loewe Laurence , Scheuer Katherine S. , Keel Seth A. , Vyas Vaibhav , Liblit Ben , Hanlon Bret , Ferris Michael C. , Yin John , Dutra Inês , Pietsch Anthony , Javid Christine G. , Moog Cecilia L. , Meyer Jocelyn , Dresel Jerdon , McLoone Brian , Loberger Sonya , Movaghar Arezoo , Gilchrist‐Scott Morgaine , Sabri Yazeed , Sescleifer Dave , Pereda‐Zorrilla Ivan , Zietlow Andrew , Smith Rodrigo , Pietenpol Samantha , Goldfinger Jacob , Atzen Sarah L. , Freiberg Erika , Waters Noah P. , Nusbaum Claire , Nolan Erik , Hotz Alyssa , Kliman Richard M. , Mentewab Ayalew , Fregien Nathan , Loewe Martha
Published: December 2016

Names in programming are vital for understanding the meaning of code and big data. We define code2brain (C2B) interfaces as maps in compilers and brains between meaning and naming syntax, which help to understand executable code. While working toward an Evolvix syntax for general‐purpose programming that makes accurate modeling easy for biologists, we observed how names affect C2B quality. To protect learning and coding investments, C2B interfaces require long‐term backward compatibility and semantic reproducibility (accurate reproduction of computational meaning from coder‐brains to reader‐brains by code alone). Semantic reproducibility is often assumed until confusing synonyms degrade modeling in biology to deciphering exercises. We highlight empirical naming priorities from diverse individuals and roles of names in different modes of computing to show how naming easily becomes impossibly difficult. We present the Evolvix BEST (Brief, Explicit, Summarizing, Technical) Names concept for reducing naming priority conflicts, test it on a real challenge by naming subfolders for the Project Organization Stabilizing Tool system, and provide naming questionnaires designed to facilitate C2B debugging by improving names used as keywords in a stabilizing programming language. Our experiences inspired us to develop Evolvix using a flipped programming language design approach with some unexpected features and BEST Names at its core.
Karyotype diversity and genome size variation in Neotropical Maxillariinae orchids
Authors: Moraes A. P. , Koehler S. , Cabral J. S. , Gomes S. S. L. , Viccini L. F. , Barros F. , Felix L. P. , Guerra M. , Forni‐Martins E. R.
Published: December 2016

Orchidaceae is a widely distributed plant family with very diverse vegetative and floral morphology, and such variability is also reflected in their karyotypes. However, since only a low proportion of Orchidaceae has been analysed for chromosome data, greater diversity may await to be unveiled. Here we analyse both genome size (GS) and karyotype in two subtribes recently included in the broadened Maxillariinea to detect how much chromosome andGSvariation there is in these groups and to evaluate which genome rearrangements are involved in the species evolution.

To do so, theGS(14 species), the karyotype – based on chromosome number, heterochromatic banding and 5S and 45SrDNAlocalisation (18 species) – was characterised and analysed along with published data using phylogenetic approaches.

TheGSpresented a high phylogenetic correlation and it was related to morphological groups inBifrenaria(larger plants – higherGS). The two largestGSfound among genera were caused by different mechanisms: polyploidy inBifrenaria tyrianthinaand accumulation of repetitiveDNAinScuticaria hadwenii. The chromosome number variability was caused mainly through descending dysploidy, and x=20 was estimated as the base chromosome number.

CombiningGSand karyotype data with molecular phylogeny, our data provide a more complete scenario of the karyotype evolution in Maxillariinae orchids, allowing us to suggest, besides dysploidy, that inversions and transposable elements as two mechanisms involved in the karyotype evolution. Such karyotype modifications could be associated with niche changes that occurred during species evolution.
Inter‐ and intraspecific diversity in Cistus L. (Cistaceae) seeds, analysed with computer vision techniques
Authors: Lo Bianco M. , Grillo O. , Cañadas E. , Venora G. , Bacchetta G.
Published: December 2016

This work aims to discriminate among different species of the genus Cistus, using seed parameters and following the scientific plant names included as accepted in The Plant List. Also, the intraspecific phenotypic differentiation of C. creticus, through comparison with three subspecies (C. creticus subsp. creticus, C. c. subsp. eriocephalus and C. c. subsp. corsicus), as well as the interpopulation variability among five C. creticus subsp. eriocephalus populations was evaluated.

Seed mean weight and 137 morphocolorimetric quantitative variables, describing shape, size, colour and textural seed traits, were measured using image analysis techniques. Measured data were analysed applying step‐wise linear discriminant analysis.

An overall cross‐validated classification performance of 80.6% was recorded at species level. With regard to C. creticus, as case study, percentages of correct discrimination of 96.7% and 99.6% were achieved at intraspecific and interpopulation levels, respectively. In this classification model, the relevance of the colorimetric and textural descriptive features was highlighted, as well as the seed mean weight, which was the most discriminant feature at specific and intraspecific level.

These achievements proved the ability of the image analysis system as highly diagnostic for systematic purposes and confirm that seeds in the genus Cistus have important diagnostic value.
Mannitol challenge testing for asthma in a community cohort of young adults
Authors: White Elisha C. , de Klerk Nicholas , Hantos Zoltan , Priston Monique , Hollams Elysia M. , James Alan , Sly Peter D. , Holt Patrick G. , Hall Graham L.
Published: December 2016

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Mannitol challenge testing is an established tool for clinical asthma diagnosis, and can be performed outside of specialized respiratory laboratories. Despite applicability in both clinical and non‐clinical populations, with different pre‐test asthma probabilities, differences in diagnostic properties have not been well explored. This study aimed to quantify the diagnostic utility of mannitol challenge testing for asthma in a community cohort and a symptomatic wheezing subset of this cohort.

Methods

During the 22‐year follow‐up of the Western Australian Pregnancy (Raine) Cohort, 772 participants (384 males) completed mannitol challenge and skin prick testing and respiratory health questionnaires, of whom 148 reporting wheeze in the past 12 months were included in a wheezing subset.

Results

Responsiveness to mannitol had low sensitivity (19%) and high specificity (97%) to identify current asthma in the complete cohort, with positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) of 45% and 92%, respectively. Within the wheezing subset, sensitivity (19%) and specificity (94%) remained similar, but PPV increased to 79%, and NPV decreased to 52%.

Conclusion

Our findings support previously reported high specificity and good PPV for mannitol challenge testing in symptomatic wheezing populations, and highlight the need for caution when interpreting mannitol test results in non‐clinical populations.