bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating cardioprotective glucose-lowering medications into clinical practice
Authors: Mudaliar Sunder
Published: December 2017

Patients with type 2 diabetes suffer from both microvascular and macrovascular complications. Optimal glycemic control is well known to reduce the microvascular complications of retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. However, despite having multiple classes of antidiabetes medications, we have not been able to favorably affect the cardiovascular (CV) complications of diabetes, which cause considerable morbidity and premature CV mortality in patients with diabetes. The recent publication of the EMPA-REG Outcome and the LEADER studies demonstrating favorable CV outcomes with empagliflozin and liraglutide have led to a decision by the Food and Drug Administration to approve an additional indication (besides glucose lowering) – to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and CV death with liraglutide, and to reduce the risk of CV death with empagliflozin in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established CV disease. This represents a paradigm shift in diabetes management and will have a major impact on diabetes treatment algorithms.
Mineral Facilitated Horizontal Gene Transfer: A New Principle for Evolution of Life?
Authors: Sand K.K. , Jelavić S.
Published: December 2017

A number of studies have highlighted that adsorption to minerals increases DNA longevity in the environment. Such DNA-mineral associations can essentially serve as pools of genes that can be stored across time. Importantly, this DNA is available for incorporation into alien organisms through the process of horizontal gene transfer. Here we argue that minerals hold an unrecognized potential for successfully transferring genetic material across environments and timescales to distant organisms and hypothesize that this process has significantly influenced the evolution of life. Our hypothesis is illustrated in the context of the evolution of early microbial life and the oxygenation of the Earth’s atmosphere and offers an explanation for observed outbursts of evolutionary events caused by horizontal gene transfer.
Real-time visual interactions across the boundary of awareness
Authors: Meital-Kfir Noya , Sagi Dov
Published: December 2017

The relationship between our conscious experiences of the visual world and the neuronal processes involved in the processing of visual information is a central theme of current research. However, it is not yet known whether conscious experiences possess unique quantitative or qualitative processing features. Recently we have shown that two visual stimuli, one consciously experienced and one not, interact as function of features and objects similarity, pointing to preserved visual representations in the absence of perceptual awareness. Here we ask whether these representations can be modified in the absence of perceptual awareness by testing interactions while the unperceived stimulus is being modified outside of one’s awareness. Observers performed a Motion Induced Blindness task, wherein a plaid ‘Target’ was morphed into a Gabor patch once disappearance was reported. Reappearances of the morphed target were induced by a visible ‘Cue’. Our results indicate that the effectiveness of the cue depends on the target representation during the time of suppression. Reappearance rates were highest when the morphed target and the cue share the same orientations. Our findings indicate that the target-cue interactions do not depend on memory-stored representations, but rather on the current state of the consciously unavailable target. We conclude that visual representations can be modified in the absence of conscious perception.
Little impact of over‐winter parasitism on a free‐ranging ungulate in the high Arctic
Authors: Carlsson Anja Morven , Albon Steve D. , Coulson Stephen J. , Ropstad Erik , Stien Audun , Wilson Kenneth , Loe Leif Egil , Veiberg Vebjørn , Irvine Robert Justin
Published: December 2017

Macroparasites have a central place in wildlife ecology because they have the potential to regulate host populations through effects on reproduction and/or survival. However, there remains a paucity of studies that have demonstrated the regulatory role of these parasites in free‐ranging animals.

Previous work on Svalbard reindeer demonstrated that the experimental removal of the parasitic gastrointestinal nematode Ostertagia gruehneri transmitted in summer, improved reindeer fecundity, and that the species was capable of mediating a density‐dependent reduction in fecundity.

The main coexisting parasitic nematode in the system, Marshallagia marshalli, exhibits a contrasting life history with low abundances in summer and an increase during the winter. Here, we examine the impact of this over‐winter infection on fitness of female reindeer in the same population.

Worm burdens were removed at the start of the winter in October using a novel delayed‐release anthelmintic bolus. Body mass and pregnancy rates were recorded for animals recaptured five (February) and seven (April) months later. The sub‐set of treated animals recaptured in February was treated again with anthelmintic to remove newly acquired nematodes. The experiment was replicated over six winters (2006/2007‐2011/2012) with a total of 343 recaptures, comprising 145 individual animals.

We found little effect of anthelmintic treatment on reindeer body mass or pregnancy rates during the winter, suggesting that nematode infection during this time does not significantly affect fitness of Svalbard reindeer.

Our studies are consistent with marked virulence nutritional trade‐offs in this system and highlights the need to integrate studies of parasite co‐infection, interspecific competition and community ecology to understand parasite impacts on hosts.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Value Added and Employment Growth in EU Primary Agriculture and Food Processing
Authors: Donnellan Trevor , Hanrahan Kevin
Published: December 2017

The relative economic importance of agri‐food production in EU Member States is in decline. This article examines the relationship between primary and processing agri‐food sectors at the Member State level in the European Union, focusing on value added and employment trends. Notable differences are observed in the performance of the agri‐food sector between the Member States, and substantially different economic developments are evident in the primary and processing sectors. The agricultural and food processing sectors remained more important in the economies of the EU Member States of Central and Eastern Europe than in those of Western Europe. The composition of primary agricultural output and the associated strength of the processing sector can partially determine the growth in incomes and employment that individual Member States can hope to derive from developments in their agri‐food sectors. This suggests that the agri‐food sectors in individual Member States have differing future income and employment‐generating capacity, and generally limited employment growth potential, with associated implications for the design of future agri‐food policy.
Reducing cryptic relatedness in genomic data sets via a central node exclusion algorithm
Authors: Fonseca Pablo A. S. , Leal Thiago P. , Santos Fernanda C. , Gouveia Mateus H. , Id‐Lahoucine Samir , Rosse Izinara C. , Ventura Ricardo V. , Bruneli Frank A. T. , Machado Marco A. , Peixoto Maria Gabriela C. D. , Tarazona‐Santos Eduardo , Carvalho Maria Raquel S.
Published: December 2017

Cryptic relatedness is a confounding factor in genetic diversity and genetic association studies. Development of strategies to reduce cryptic relatedness in a sample is a crucial step for downstream genetic analyses. This study uses a node selection algorithm, based on network degrees of centrality, to evaluate its applicability and impact on evaluation of genetic diversity and population stratification. 1,036 Guzerá (Bos indicus) females were genotyped using Illumina Bovine SNP50 v2 BeadChip. Four strategies were compared. The first and second strategies consist on a iterative exclusion of most related individuals based on PLINK kinship coefficient (φij) and VanRaden's φij, respectively. The third and fourth strategies were based on a node selection algorithm. The fourth strategy, Network G matrix, preserved the larger number of individuals with a better diversity and representation from the initial sample. Determining the most probable number of populations was directly affected by the kinship metric. Network G matrix was the better strategy for reducing relatedness due to producing a larger sample, with more distant individuals, a more similar distribution when compared with the full data set in the MDS plots and keeping a better representation of the population structure. Resampling strategies using VanRaden's φij as a relationship metric was better to infer the relationships among individuals. Moreover, the resampling strategies directly impact the genomic inflation values in genomewide association studies. The use of the node selection algorithm also implies better selection of the most central individuals to be removed, providing a more representative sample.
Screening for problem gambling within mental health services: a comparison of the classification accuracy of brief instruments
Authors: Dowling Nicki A. , Merkouris Stephanie S. , Manning Victorian , Volberg Rachel , Lee Stuart J. , Rodda Simone N. , Lubman Dan I.
Published: December 2017

Background and aims

Despite the over‐representation of people with gambling problems in mental health populations, there is limited information available to guide the selection of brief screening instruments within mental health services. The primary aim was to compare the classification accuracy of nine brief problem gambling screening instruments (two to five items) with a reference standard among patients accessing mental health services.

Design

The classification accuracy of nine brief screening instruments was compared with multiple cut‐off scores on a reference standard.

Setting

Eight mental health services in Victoria, Australia.

Participants

A total of 837 patients were recruited consecutively between June 2015 and January 2016.

Measurements

The brief screening instruments were the Lie/Bet Questionnaire, Brief Problem Gambling Screen (BPGS) (two‐ to five‐item versions), NODS‐CLiP, NODS‐CLiP2, Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen (BBGS) and NODS‐PERC. The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) was the reference standard.

Findings

The five‐item BPGS was the only instrument displaying satisfactory classification accuracy in detecting any level of gambling problem (low‐risk, moderate‐risk or problem gambling) (sensitivity = 0.803, specificity = 0.982, diagnostic efficiency = 0.943). Several shorter instruments adequately detected both problem and moderate‐risk, but not low‐risk, gambling: two three‐item instruments (NODS‐CLiP, three‐item BPGS) and two four‐item instruments (NODS‐PERC, four‐item BPGS) (sensitivity = 0.854–0.966, specificity = 0.901–0.954, diagnostic efficiency = 0.908–0.941). The four‐item instruments, however, did not provide any considerable advantage over the three‐item instruments. Similarly, the very brief (two‐item) instruments (Lie/Bet and two‐item BPGS) adequately detected problem gambling (sensitivity = 0.811–0.868, specificity = 0.938–0.943, diagnostic efficiency = 0.933–0.934), but not moderate‐risk or low‐risk gambling.

Conclusions

The optimal brief screening instrument for mental health services wanting to screen for any level of gambling problem is the five‐item Brief Problem Gambling Screen (BPGS). Services wanting to employ a shorter instrument or to screen only for more severe gambling problems (moderate‐risk/problem gambling) can employ the NODS‐CLiP or the three‐item BPGS. Services that are only able to accommodate a very brief instrument can employ the Lie/Bet Questionnaire or the two‐item BPGS.
Building a theoretical framework for autism spectrum disorders screening instruments in Europe
Authors: Magán‐Maganto María , Jónsdóttir Sigrídur Lóa , Sánchez‐García Ana B. , García‐Primo Patricia , Hellendoorn Annika , Charman Tony , Roeyers Herbert , Dereu Mieke , Moilanen Irma , Muratori Filippo , Posada de la Paz Manuel , Rogé Bernadette , Oosterling Iris J , Yliherva Anneli , Canal‐Bedia Ricardo
Published: December 2017

Background

This study addresses the need for a theoretical base to develop more effective early autism spectrum disorders (ASD) detection tools. The structure that underlies early ASD detection is explored by evaluating the opinions of experts on ASD screening tools currently used in Europe.

Method

A process of face and content validity was performed. First, the best constructs were selected from the relevant tests: Checklist for Early Signs of Developmental Disorders (CESDD), Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT), Early Screening of Autistic Traits Questionnaire (ESAT), Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M‐CHAT), Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and Communication and Symbolic Behaviour Scales Developmental Profile (CSBS‐DP). The diagnostic content validity model by Fehring (1986, 1994) was adapted to make the selection. Afterwards, the items, taken from these tests, were selected to fit into each construct, using the same methodology.

Results

Twelve of the 18 constructs were selected by the experts and 11 items were chosen from a total of 130, reduced to eight after eliminating tautologies.

Conclusions

Mapping these constructs and items on to the DSM‐5 diagnostic criteria for ASD indicated good face and content validity. Results of this research will contribute to efforts to improve early ASD screening instruments and identify the key behaviours that experts in ASD see as the most relevant for early detection.
Th17, synchronically increased with Tregs and Bregs, promoted by tumour cells via cell-contact in primary hepatic carcinoma
Authors: Wang W , Wang Z , Qin Y , Tang G , Cai G , Liu Y , Zhang J , Zhang P , Shen Q , Shen L , Yu W
Published: December 2017

Documented reports about T helper type 17 (Th17) cells have revealed that Th17 plays a critical role in inflammation and autoimmunity diseases. However, the role of Th17 in cancer remains contradictory. The interplay between Th17 and tumour cells in the tumour microenvironment of primary hepatic carcinoma (PHC) needs to be explored further and the relationship between Th17, regulatory T cells (Tregs) and regulatory B cells (Bregs) has not been defined completely. In this study, numerous experiments were undertaken to elucidate the interaction of Th17 and Treg/Breg cells involved in PHC. Our work demonstrated that an increased Th17 was detected in the peripheral circulation and in tumour tissues in PHC patients. In addition, increases in peripheral blood Th17 corresponded with tumour–node–metastasis (TNM) stage progression. Also, further studies indicated that Th17 cells were promoted by tumour cells in the PHC tumour microenvironment through both contact-dependent and -independent mechanisms, but cell-contact played the major important role in promoting the production and proliferation of Th17. When isolated CD4+CD25+CD127low Tregs and CD4+CD25–CD127+ non-Tregs were cultured with autologous tumour cells, it implied that the phenotype of Th17 and Tregs was modified by tumour cells in the tumour microenvironment. As well as this, Th17 cells were also found to correlate positively with CD4+forkhead box protein 3+ Tregs and CD19+CD5+CD1dhi Bregs in PHC. Notably, Th17 increased synchronically with Tregs and Bregs in PHC. These findings may provide new clues to reveal the mechanisms of immune escape in PHC.
Immunomodulatory activity of glycodelin: implications in allograft rejection
Authors: Dixit A , Balakrishnan B , Karande A A
Published: December 2017

Glycodelin is an immunomodulator, indispensable for the maintenance of pregnancy in humans. The glycoprotein induces apoptosis in activated CD4+ T cells, monocytes and natural killer (NK) cells, and suppresses the activity of cytotoxic T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. This study explores the immunosuppressive property of glycodelin for its possible use in preventing graft rejection. Because glycodelin is found only in certain primates, the hypothesis was investigated in an allograft nude mouse model. It is demonstrated that treatment of alloactivated mononuclear cells with glycodelin thwarts graft rejection. Glycodelin decreases the number of activated CD4+ and CD8+ cells and down-regulates the expression of key proteins known to be involved in graft demise such as granzyme-B, eomesodermin (EOMES), interleukin (IL)-2 and proinflammatory cytokines [tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6], resulting in a weakened cell-mediated immune response. Immunosuppressive drugs for treating allograft rejection are associated with severe side effects. Glycodelin, a natural immunomodulator in humans, would be an ideal alternative candidate.
Enriched physical environment reverses spatial cognitive impairment of socially isolated APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice before amyloidosis onset
Authors: Cao Min , Hu Pan‐Pan , Zhang Yan‐Li , Yan Yi‐Xin , Shields Christopher B. , Zhang Yi‐Ping , Hu Gang , Xiao Ming
Published: December 2017

Aims

Social isolation increases the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Environmental enrichment, a complicated social and physical construct, plays beneficial effects on brain plasticity and function. This study was designed to determine whether physical enrichment can reduce the deleterious consequences of social isolation on the onset of AD.

Methods

One‐month‐old APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic AD model mice were singly housed in the enriched physical environment for 8 weeks and then received behavioral tests, neuropathological analyses, and Western blot of the hippocampus.

Results

The enriched physical environment reversed spatial cognitive decline of socially isolated APPswe/PS1dE9 mice. The functional reversal was associated with decreases in cellular apoptosis, synaptic protein loss, inflammation, and glial activation in the hippocampus, without changes in amyloid β neuropathology.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the enriched physical environment may serve as a nonpharmacological intervention for delaying the onset of AD accompanied with social isolation.
Unconjugated bilirubin modulates neuronal signaling only in wild‐type mice, but not after ablation of the R‐type/Cav2.3 voltage‐gated calcium channel
Authors: Albanna Walid , Neumaier Felix , Lüke Jan Niklas , Kotliar Konstantin , Conzen Catharina , Lindauer Ute , Hescheler Jürgen , Clusmann Hans , Schneider Toni , Schubert Gerrit Alexander
Published: December 2017

Introduction

The relationship between blood metabolites and hemoglobin degradation products (BMHDPs) formed in the cerebrospinal fluid and the development of vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) has been the focus of several previous studies, but their molecular and cellular targets remain to be elucidated.

Methods

Because BMHDP‐induced changes in Cav2.3 channel function are thought to contribute to DCI after aSAH, we studied their modulation by unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) in an organotypical neuronal network from wild‐type (WT) and Cav2.3‐deficient animals (KO). Murine retinae were isolated from WT and KO and superfused with nutrient solution. Electroretinograms were recorded before, during, and after superfusion with UCB. Transretinal signaling was analyzed as b‐wave, implicit time, and area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Superfusion of UCB significantly attenuated the b‐wave amplitude in the isolated retina from wild‐type mice by 14.9% (P < 0.05), followed by gradual partial recovery (P = 0.09). Correspondingly, AUC decreased significantly with superfusion of UCB (P < 0.05). During washout, the b‐wave amplitude returned to baseline (P = 0.2839). The effects of UCB were absent in Cav2.3‐deficient mice, lacking the expression of Cav2.3 as proofed on the biochemical level.

Conclusions

Ex vivo neuronal recording in the murine retina is able to detect transient impairment of transretinal signaling by UCB in WT, but not in KO. This new model may be useful to further clarify the role of calcium channels in neuronal signal alteration in the presence of BHMDPs.
The sarcopenia index: A novel measure of muscle mass in lung transplant candidates
Authors: Kashani Kianoush , Sarvottam Kumar , Pereira Naveen L. , Barreto Erin F. , Kennedy Cassie C.
Published: December 2017

Background

Frailty, including low muscle mass, is an emerging risk factor for poor outcomes after lung transplant. The sarcopenia index (SI)—(serum creatinine value/cystatin C value) × 100—is a novel blood test to approximate muscle mass. We sought to validate SI among lung transplant patients.

Methods

We retrospectively identified adult lung transplant recipients from 2000 through 2012 at our institution who underwent computed tomography within 1 year before transplant and had preserved blood samples. Creatinine and cystatin C values were measured using the samples and used to calculate SI. Muscle mass was estimated by computed tomographic measurement of skeletal muscle cross‐sectional surface area (SA) at the L1 to L3 vertebral levels. Correlation between SI and SA was evaluated.

Results

Of 28 patients meeting eligibility criteria, most were white (96%) and men (54%). Median (interquartile range) body mass index, SI, and SA were 25.9 (22‐30) kg/m2, 106 (91‐119), and 157 (113‐195) cm2, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficient between SI and SA was significant at L2 (0.43; P = .02) and L3 (0.41; P = .03).

Conclusion

Sarcopenia index is a potentially objective measure for estimating muscle mass that is noninvasive and less expensive. Sarcopenia index could be considered in lung transplant candidate selection following prospective validation in larger cohorts.
Mid‐ to long‐term results of total ankle replacement in patients with haemophilic arthropathy: A 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: Eckers F. , Bauer D. E. , Hingsammer A. , Sutter R. , Brand B. , Viehöfer A. , Wirth S. H.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Haemophilic ankle arthropathy is caused by recurrent spontaneous joint haemorrhaging and leads to pain, deformity and loss of function. In the presence of advanced articular deterioration, therapeutic options are confined to either arthroplasty or arthrodesis, the latter still being referred to as the procedure of choice. However, total ankle replacement (TAR) has recently gained acceptance as an alternative.

Aim

To investigate the mid‐ to long‐term results of TAR in haemophilic ankle arthropathy.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen TARs in 14 male patients (mean age: 43 years [range, 27.4‐57.6]), implanted between 1998 and 2012, were retrospectively analysed. Implant survival was estimated using Kaplan‐Meier analysis. Haemophilic/viral status, complications and revision surgeries were recorded. Follow‐up assessment of 12 TARs was performed 9.6 years (range, 3.3‐17.8) postoperatively, including clinical examination, pain and satisfaction scales, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, and the SF‐36. Radiographic evaluation of pre‐ and follow‐up radiographs was conducted.

Results

Estimated implant survival was 94% at 5, 85% at 10 and 70% at 15 years, respectively. Three cases required revision surgery. At follow‐up, 9.6 years (range, 3.3‐17.8) postoperatively, the level of satisfaction was 76% (range, 50‐100) and of pain 2/10 (range, 0‐6) on the VAS. Range of motion had increased significantly (P = .037). The SF‐36 summary scores were comparable to those of a matched standard population. The AOFAS hindfoot score averaged 81 points (range, 73‐90). All radiographs revealed component loosening or periprosthetic radiolucency.

Conclusion

Total ankle replacement in the presence of advanced haemophilic arthropathy is a viable treatment option with favourable mid‐/long‐term results, maintaining mobility of the ankle joint.
Serum Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive Mac‐2 binding protein more reliably distinguishes liver fibrosis stages in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease than serum Mac‐2 binding protein
Authors: Atsukawa Masanori , Tsubota Akihito , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Nakagawa Ai , Itokawa Norio , Kondo Chisa , Kato Keizo , Hatori Tsutomu , Hano Hiroshi , Oikawa Tsunekazu , Emoto Naoya , Abe Masanori , Kage Masayoshi , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: December 2017

Aim

Serum Mac‐2 binding protein (M2BP) and Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive Mac‐2 binding protein (WFA+‐M2BP) are used to estimate the liver fibrosis stage in chronic liver diseases. However, few head‐to‐head studies have been carried out to compare the two biomarkers in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

Serum M2BP and WFA+‐M2BP levels were compared against clinical characteristics and liver histological manifestations in the same samples collected from 213 biopsy‐proven NAFLD patients.

Results

Median levels (range) of M2BP and WFA+‐M2BP were 1.58 (0.70–7.75) pg/mL and 0.85 (0.22–11.32) cut‐off index (COI), respectively. Fibrosis stages 1, 2, 3, and 4 were determined in 136, 37, 17, and 23 patients, respectively. Median levels of both biomarkers increased stepwise with fibrosis progression. The M2BP and WFA+‐M2BP levels showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.643, P = 2.91 × 10−26), but a marked discrepancy between both biomarkers was noted in five stage 4 and three stage 1 patients, who had high WFA+‐M2BP but relatively low M2BP levels. Most of these outliers had findings suggestive of more advanced fibrosis. For diagnosing any fibrosis severity, WFA+‐M2BP had greater area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and predictive accuracy than M2BP. Among eight fibrosis markers/indices, WFA+‐M2BP yielded the second highest AUC (0.832) and the highest predictive accuracy (82.2%) to diagnose cirrhosis. In addition, WFA+‐M2BP showed the second highest predictive accuracy to diagnose severe fibrosis (78.4%) and significant fibrosis (76.1%).

Conclusion

This head‐to‐head comparison suggests that WFA+‐M2BP is superior to M2BP for distinguishing liver fibrosis stages in NAFLD patients. A marked discrepancy between the two biomarkers may be indicative of advanced NAFLD (UMIN000023286).
Carapace epithelia are rich in large filamentous actin bundles in Daphnia magna, Daphnia pulex, and Sida crystallina (Crustacea: Cladocera)
Authors: Christensen Arne K. , Owusu Nana G. , Jean‐Louis David
Published: December 2017

Cladocerans (water fleas) are planktonic crustaceans that typically have a bivalved carapace. Each valve of the carapace consists of two cuticle‐secreting epithelial layers that are separated by a hemolymphatic chamber and joined by pillar structures. Ultrastructural analyses in several species of Cladocera have shown that the carapace epithelia and pillars contain filamentous structures of unknown composition. In the present study we used a fluorescent phalloidin conjugate to show that the carapaces of three cladocerans, Daphnia magna, D. pulex, and Sida crystallina, are rich in large bundles of filamentous actin (F‐actin). In D. magna we employed confocal microscopy and orthogonal views of three‐dimensional reconstructions to show that these bundles extend radially from foci in the pillars towards the integument surfaces, and their structure is consistent with that of contractile stress fibers. Using a fluorescent lipophilic stain, DiOC6(3), we show that the F‐actin bundles are distributed in membrane‐rich regions within the carapace epithelia, and that, in the superficial epithelium, these may be large membrane‐bound organelles. In D. magna, the F‐actin bundles are present in embryonic, juvenile instar, and adult, developmental stages, and through development the bundles become larger, contain more F‐actin, and become more widely spaced. We present an alignment of the deduced amino acid sequences of six putative D. pulex actin genes, and discuss the implications that their respective sequences have on the likelihood of their inclusion into the F‐actin bundles of the carapace. Our identification of these large F‐actin bundles within the pillars of three cladocerans provides new insight into the role these structures play in influencing carapace dynamics within this order.
Liquidity as Social Expertise
Authors: KURLAT PABLO
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes a theory of liquidity dynamics. Illiquidity results from asymmetric information. Observing the historical track record teaches agents how to interpret public information and helps overcome information asymmetry. However, an illiquidity trap can arise: too much asymmetric information leads to the breakdown of trade, which interrupts learning and perpetuates illiquidity. Liquidity falls in response to unexpected events that lead agents to question their valuation models (especially in newer markets) may be slow to recover after a crisis, and is higher in periods of stability.
Marginal Fit of Metal‐Ceramic Copings: Effect of Luting Cements and Tooth Preparation Design
Authors: de Almeida Juliana Gomes dos Santos Paes , Guedes Carlos Gramani , Abi‐Rached Filipe de Oliveira , Trindade Flávia Zardo , Fonseca Renata Garcia
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of the triad finish line design, axial wall convergence angle, and luting cement on the marginal fit of metal copings used in metal‐ceramic crowns.

Materials and Methods

Schematic dies and their respective copings were cast in NiCr alloy. The dies exhibited the following finish line/convergence angle combinations: sloping shoulder/6°, sloping shoulder/20°, shoulder/6°, shoulder/20°. Marginal fit was evaluated under a stereomicroscope, before and after cementation. Copings were air‐abraded with 50 μm Al2O3 particles and cemented with Cimento de Zinco, RelyX U100, or Panavia F cements (n = 10/group). Data were square‐root transformed and analyzed by 3‐way factorial random effect model and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05).

Results

Statistical analysis showed significance for the interactions finish line and convergence angle (p < 0.05), convergence angle and time (p < 0.001), and luting cement and time (p < 0.001). Sloping shoulder/20° provided the highest marginal discrepancy when compared to the other finish line/convergence angle combinations, which were statistically similar among each other. For both convergence angles and for all luting cements, the marginal discrepancy was significantly higher after cementation. Before and after cementation, 6° provided better marginal fit than 20°. After cementation, Panavia F provided higher marginal discrepancy than Cimento de Zinco.

Conclusion

Lower convergence angle combined with shoulder and a low‐consistency luting cement is preferable to cement metal copings.
Assessing uncertainty in the burden of hepatitis C virus: Comparison of estimated disease burden and treatment costs in the UK
Authors: Gubay F. , Staunton R. , Metzig C. , Abubakar I. , White P. J.
Published: December 2017

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major and growing public health concern. We need to know the expected health burden and treatment cost, and understand uncertainty in those estimates, to inform policymaking and future research. Two models that have been important in informing treatment guidelines and assessments of HCV burden were compared by simulating cohorts of individuals with chronic HCV infection initially aged 20, 35 and 50 years. One model predicts that health losses (measured in quality‐adjusted life‐years [QALYs]) and treatment costs decrease with increasing initial age of the patients, whilst the other model predicts that below 40 years, costs increase and QALY losses change little with age, and above 40 years, they decline with increasing age. Average per‐patient costs differ between the models by up to 38%, depending on the patients' initial age. One model predicts double the total number, and triple the peak annual incidence, of liver transplants compared to the other model. One model predicts 55%‐314% more deaths than the other, depending on the patients' initial age. The main sources of difference between the models are estimated progression rates between disease states and rates of health service utilization associated with different disease states and, in particular, the age dependency of these parameters. We conclude that decision‐makers need to be aware that uncertainties in the health burden and economic cost of HCV disease have important consequences for predictions of future need for care and cost‐effectiveness of interventions to avert HCV transmission, and further quantification is required to inform decisions.
Efficacy and safety of 6 or 8 weeks of simeprevir, daclatasvir, sofosbuvir for HCV genotype 1 infection
Authors: Sulkowski M. S. , Feld J. J. , Lawitz E. , Felizarta F. , Corregidor A. M. , Khalid O. , Ghalib R. , Smith W. B. , Van Eygen V. , Luo D. , Vijgen L. , Gamil M. , Kakuda T. N. , Ouwerkerk‐Mahadevan S. , Van Remoortere P. , Beumont M.
Published: December 2017

The phase 2, open‐label ACCORDION (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02349048) study investigated the efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of a 6‐ or 8‐week regimen of simeprevir, daclatasvir and sofosbuvir in treatment‐naïve patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype (GT) 1 infection and either early‐stage fibrosis or compensated cirrhosis. Patients were assigned to treatment groups according to their fibrosis stage. Early‐stage fibrosis: simeprevir 150 mg, daclatasvir 60 mg, sofosbuvir 400 mg once daily for 6 weeks; compensated cirrhosis: same regimen for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12). Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of simeprevir, daclatasvir and sofosbuvir were investigated. Sixty‐eight patients were treated (6‐week group: n = 59; 8‐week group: n = 9). SVR12 was achieved by 86.4% (51/59) of patients with early‐stage fibrosis and by 100% (9/9) of patients with cirrhosis. The main reason for not achieving SVR12 in the 6‐week group was viral relapse (11.9%; 7/59). One patient had on‐treatment failure due to an early withdrawal (lost to follow‐up due to incarceration). One patient with SVR12 in the 6‐week group had a late viral relapse at post‐treatment week 24. No clinically significant drug‐drug interactions were observed. Adverse events were reported in 63.2% of patients (43/68) and were mainly grade 1/2. None of these led to treatment discontinuation. The 3 direct‐acting antiviral regimens of simeprevir, daclatasvir and sofosbuvir were safe and well tolerated in treatment‐naïve, HCV GT1‐infected patients with early‐stage fibrosis or compensated cirrhosis.
Influence of an oxygen minimum zone and macroalgal enrichment on benthic megafaunal community composition in a NE Pacific submarine canyon
Authors: Domke Lia , Lacharité Myriam , Metaxas Anna , Matabos Marjolaine
Published: December 2017

Megafaunal diversity in the deep sea shows a parabolic pattern with depth. It can be affected by factors such as low oxygen concentration, which suppresses diversity, or the presence of submarine canyons, which enhances it. Barkley Canyon, located off the west coast of British Columbia, Canada, is a submarine canyon that extends from the continental margin (200 m) into the deep ocean (2,000 m). This canyon receives drift kelp from shoreline kelp forests and contains an oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) at 500 to 1,500 m depth. Our study investigated the abundance and diversity of epibenthic megafauna over a range of depths (200–2,000 m) and oxygen concentrations (0.5–5.0 ml/L) within Barkley Canyon, as well as changes in abundance near detrital kelp. Video was collected using the remotely operated vehicle ROPOS along seven 1‐km cross‐canyon (i.e., across the axis of the canyon) transects and three 40‐m perpendicular cross‐transects over kelp. Taxonomic groups were associated with depth, temperature, and the presence of pebbles. The OMZ restricted pennatulids, and edge effects along OMZ boundaries were observed for ophiuroids. The geomorphology of the sea floor affected the distribution of taxa across the canyon, with Porifera mainly found along the walls and Echinoidea within the canyon axis. Expected richness exhibited a bimodal pattern, peaking at 300 and 2,000 m, possibly due to the combined effect of the OMZ and the submarine canyon. Echinoidea aggregated near drift kelp at 200 and 300 m. We found that faunal communities in Barkley Canyon were influenced by several confounded factors including depth, oxygen and substrate. Understanding faunal patterns is paramount with increased exploitation and a changing climate.
Insights into the metabolic functioning of a multipartner ciliate symbiosis from oxygen‐depleted sediments
Authors: Beinart R. A. , Beaudoin D. J. , Bernhard J. M. , Edgcomb V. P.
Published: December 2017

Symbioses between anaerobic or microaerophilic protists and prokaryotes are common in anoxic and oxygen‐depleted habitats ranging from marine sediments to gastrointestinal tracts. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanisms of metabolic interaction between partners. In these putatively syntrophic associations, consumption of fermentative end products (e.g., hydrogen) by the prokaryotic symbionts is thought to facilitate protistan anaerobic metabolism. Here, we employed metagenomic and metatranscriptomic sequencing of a microaerophilic or anaerobic karyorelictid ciliate and its prokaryotic symbionts from oxygen‐depleted Santa Barbara Basin (CA, USA) sediments to assess metabolic coupling within this consortium. This sequencing confirmed the predominance of deltaproteobacterial symbionts from the Families Desulfobacteraceae and Desulfobulbaceae and suggested active symbiont reduction of host‐provided sulphate, transfer of small organic molecules from host to symbionts and hydrogen cycling among the symbionts. In addition, patterns of gene expression indicated active cell division by the symbionts, their growth via autotrophic processes and nitrogen exchange with the ciliate host. Altogether, this research underscores the importance of symbiont metabolism to host fermentative metabolism and, thus, likely its success in anoxic and low‐oxygen habitats, but also suggests ciliate‐associated prokaryotes play a role in important biogeochemical processes.
Solar irradiation levels during simulated long‐ and short‐term heat waves significantly influence heat survival, pigment and ascorbate composition, and free radical scavenging activity in alpine Vaccinium gaultherioides
Authors: Karadar Matthias , Neuner Gilbert , Kranner Ilse , Holzinger Andreas , Buchner Othmar
Published: December 2017

In the 20th century, annual mean temperatures in the European Alps rose by almost 1 K and are predicted to rise further, increasing the impact of temperature on alpine plants. The role of light in the heat hardening of plants is still not fully understood. Here, the alpine dwarf shrub Vaccinium gaultherioides was exposed in situ to controlled short‐term heat spells (150 min with leaf temperatures 43–49°C) and long‐term heat waves (7 days, 30°C) under different irradiation intensities. Lethal leaf temperatures (LT50) were calculated. Low solar irradiation [max. 250 photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD)] during short‐term heat treatments mitigated the heat stress, shown by reduced leaf tissue damage and higher Fv/Fm (potential quantum efficiency of photosystem 2) than in darkness. The increase in xanthophyll cycle activity and ascorbate concentration was more pronounced under low light, and free radical scavenging activity increased independent of light conditions. During long‐term heat wave exposure, heat tolerance increased from 3.7 to 6.5°C with decreasing mean solar irradiation intensity (585–115 PPFD). Long‐term exposure to heat under low light enhanced heat hardening and increased photosynthetic pigment, dehydroascorbate and violaxanthin concentration. In conclusion, V. gaultherioides is able to withstand temperatures of around 50°C, and its heat hardening can be enhanced by low light during both short‐ and long‐term heat treatment. Data showing the specific role of light during short‐ and long‐term heat exposure and the potential risk of lethal damage in alpine shrubs as a result of rising temperature are discussed.
The importance of oesophageal ultrasound in mediastinal staging of lung cancer – Reply
Authors: Vial Macarena R. , Eapen George
Published: December 2017

See Letter
Relationships among neuroscore, magnetic resonance imaging features, and intracranial pressure in sheep affected by slow‐growing brain lesions
Authors: Evangelisti Maria A. , Deiana Roberta , Melosu Valentino , Burrai Giovanni P. , Ballocco Isabella , Varcasia Antonio , Scala Antonio , Manunta Maria L.
Published: December 2017

Diagnosing high intracranial pressure by clinical and diagnostic imaging is particularly challenging for chronic or slow‐growing lesions. The aim of this prospective case‐control study is to determine whether the neuroscore and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are related to the direct measurement of intracranial pressure in sheep affected by intracranial slow‐growing lesions due to chronic cerebral coenurosis (Coenurus cerebralis). Seventeen affected and 10 control sheep were included. All animals underwent a neurological examination, MRI of the brain, and direct measurement of intracranial pressure. The severity of clinical signs and MRI findings were scored. Data were statistically analyzed. The invasive intracranial pressure value was higher in affected animals. A severely altered neuroscore is related to an increased intracranial pressure beyond the normal threshold (P < 0.05). The volume of the calvarium was larger in affected animals than in control animals (P = 0.0001) and was positively influenced by the presence and volume of the parasitic cyst (r = 0.7881, P < 0.01). Several degrees of deviation and deformation of both the ventricular system and brain parenchyma were detected by MRI. Subjective MRI findings were not associated with intracranial hypertension. In conclusion, this study shows that in sheep affected by slow‐growing lesions, severe alterations in the neuroscore and the results of objective MRI are related to an increased intracranial pressure beyond the normal threshold.
Beyond abundance: How microenvironmental features and weather influence Bartonella tribocorum infection in wild Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Rothenburger J. L. , Himsworth C. G. , Nemeth N. M. , Pearl D. L. , Jardine C. M.
Published: December 2017

Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) inhabit cities worldwide and carry a number of zoonotic pathogens. Although many studies have investigated rat‐level risk factors, there is limited research on the effects of weather and environment on zoonotic pathogen transmission ecology in rats. The objective of this study was to use a disease ecology approach to understand how abiotic (weather and urban microenvironmental features) and biotic (relative rat population abundance) factors affect Bartonella tribocorum prevalence in urban Norway rats from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This potentially zoonotic pathogen is primarily transmitted by fleas and is common among rodents, including rats, around the world. During a systematic rat trap and removal study, city blocks were evaluated for 48 environmental variables related to waste, land/alley use and property condition, and rat abundance. We constructed 32 weather (temperature and precipitation) variables with time lags prior to the date we captured each rat. We fitted multivariable logistic regression models with rat pathogen status as the outcome. The odds of a rat testing positive for B. tribocorum were significantly lower for rats in city blocks with one or more low‐rise apartment buildings compared to blocks with none (OR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.04–0.80; p = .02). The reason for this association may be related to unmeasured factors that influence pathogen transmission and maintenance, as well as flea vector survival. Bartonella tribocorum infection in rats was positively associated with high minimum temperatures for several time periods prior to rat capture. This finding suggests that a baseline minimum temperature may be necessary for flea vector survival and B. tribocorum transmission among rats. There was no significant association with rat abundance, suggesting a lack of density‐dependent pathogen transmission. This study is an important first step to understanding how environment and weather impacts rat infections including zoonotic pathogen ecology in urban ecosystems.
On cyclic DNA codes over the rings Z4 + wZ4 and Z4 + wZ4 + vZ4 + wvZ4
Authors: Dertli Abdullah , Cengellenmis Yasemin
Published: December 2017

The structures of cyclic DNA codes of odd length over the finite ringsВ R = Z4 + wZ4, w^2 = 2 and S = Z4 + wZ4 + vZ4 + wvZ4; w^2 = 2; v^2 =v; wv = vw are studied. The links between the elements of the rings R, SВ and 16 and 256 codons are established, respectively. The cyclic codes of odd length over the finite ring RВ satisfy reverse complement constraint and the cyclic codes of odd length over the finite ring SВ satisfy reverse constraint and reverse complement constraint are studied. The binary images of the cyclic DNA codes over the finite rings RВ and SВ are determined. Moreover, a family of DNA skew cyclic codes over RВ is constructed, its property of being reverse complement is studied.
A method of improving student learning in physiology: the small group workshop.
Authors: McKinley C J , Stoll W R
Published: December 2017

This teaching innovation replaces standard physiology laboratories with small group workshop tasks dealing with selected physiology problems and data. Working with a series of question sheets, the students focus on establishing a knowledge base and solving problems relating to physiology. Initial experiences show an improvement in student motivation and attitude and improved feedback to students. The major benefits of this approach include 1) enhancement of written and oral communication skills, 2) listening and interacting with group members, 3) correct use of reference materials to find answers, and 4) self-reliance and improved interest in related subject material.
Basic science curriculum during residency: justification based on in-training examination scores.
Authors: Steffes C P , Dulchavsky S A
Published: December 2017

The American Board of Surgery is increasing its emphasis on competency in surgical basic science as part of residency training. The 1991 American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) contained 135 questions designated as basic science to assess residents' knowledge. We reviewed the separate progression of scores in clinical and basic sciences at Wayne State University (WSU) surgical residency and nationally through the 1991 ABSITE report. Regression analysis of WSU data yielded a slope (% correct answers per postgraduate year) of 5.3 for clinical and 2.4 for basic science scores (P < 0.001 by t-statistic applied to regression slopes). These data imply a progression of knowledge during residency but at a significantly slower rate for basic science. The national data confirm this trend, although we were unable to evaluate it statistically. This situation illustrates the need for organized teaching of clinically relevant basic science as part of a residency curriculum.