bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher mortality rate in patients with heart failure who are taking commonly prescribed antidiabetic medications and achieve recommended levels of glycaemic control
Authors: Packer Milton
Published: February 2018

Current guidelines for diabetes recommend that physicians attain a glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentration ≤7.0%, but this target may not be applicable to those with heart failure. Fourteen studies in patients with chronic heart failure that examined the relationship between the level of HbA1c and risk of death specified whether HbA1c was influenced by treatment with antidiabetic medications. In patients with heart failure not receiving glucose‐lowering drugs, the mortality rate was not higher among those with an HbA1c concentration <7.0%. By contrast, in patients who were treated with insulin, sulphonylureas and thiazolidinediones, an inverse or U‐shaped relationship between HbA1c and the risk of death was generally observed, and mortality was lowest in patients with both heart failure and diabetes if the level of HbA1c was >7.0%. These studies suggest that patients with both heart failure and diabetes are at increased risk of death if they are prescribed certain glucose‐lowering drugs to achieve levels of HbA1c <7.0%.
Serum brain‐derived neurotrophic factor in children with coeliac disease
Authors: Margoni Daphne , Michalakakou Kelly , Angeli Eleni , Pervanidou Panagiota , Kanaka‐Gantenbein Christina , Chrousos George , Papassotiriou Ioannis , Roma Eleftheria
Published: February 2018

Background

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that has a protective role in the nervous system and is involved in neural plasticity. It is abundant in the central nervous system, but is also expressed in the gastrointestinal tract. Coeliac disease (CD), characterised by intestinal inflammation, has some comorbidity with neurologic and mental disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate circulating BDNF concentrations in patients with CD at diagnosis or on a gluten‐free diet (GFD) for longer than 1 year and in healthy controls (HC).

Materials and methods

Fifty newly diagnosed patients with CD (aged 8.6 ± 3.7 years, 64.0% females), thirty‐nine patients on GFD for longer than 1 year (aged 10.4 ± 3.4 years, 71.8% females) and 36 HC (aged 8 ± 1.7 years, 33.3% females) were included in the study. Along with anthropometric evaluation and standard blood chemistry, serum BDNF levels were measured by a specific immunoenzymatic assay.

Results

Patients at diagnosis and on GFD had significantly higher BDNF levels (26 110 ± 8204 and 28 860 ± 7992 pg/mL), respectively, than HC (19 630 ± 8093 pg/mL, P < .001 for both CD groups). Patients on GFD had significantly higher BDNF levels than those at diagnosis (P = .02).

Conclusions

Serum BDNF concentrations were higher in patients with CD than in HC, regardless of their status of gluten consumption. This could be attributed either to a potential protective response to the inflammation of the intestine or to chronic stress.
Insecticidal potential of Bacillus thuringiensis for the biological control of neotropical brown stink bug
Authors: Schünemann Rogério , Roggia Samuel , Muraro Dionei Schmidt , Knaak Neiva , Fiuza Lidia Mariana
Published: February 2018

Euschistus heros (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is considered a major insect pest in soybean production in Brazil. The indiscriminate application of pesticides to fields leads to reduction in biodiversity, selection of resistant populations, emergence of new pest outbreaks, and damage to non‐target organisms. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of exposure to Cry proteins present in new isolates of Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner, commercial formulations, and Bt soybean on E. heros development. The feeding preference of E. heros for Bt‐ vs. non‐Bt soybean was also evaluated. All treatments caused significant mortality to E. heros except the Bt soybean. Tests with combinations of isolated Bt‐toxins indicated that combinations had greater efficacy than other treatments (>98% mortality). The results demonstrate that E. heros is susceptible to B. thuringiensis toxins, which may contribute to the management of this insect in soybean agro‐ecosystems.
Role of potentially inappropriate medication use in rehabilitation outcomes for geriatric patients after strokes
Authors: Kose Eiji , Hirai Toshiyuki , Seki Toshiichi , Hayashi Hiroyuki
Published: February 2018

Aim

The effect of the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) on mortality and functional outcome after strokes is unclear in Japan. The aim of the present study was to establish whether treatment with PIM affects functional improvements among geriatric patients convalescing after strokes.

Methods

This retrospective longitudinal study included consecutive geriatric patients admitted and discharged from convalescent rehabilitation wards for stroke between 2010 and 2016. Demographic data, laboratory data and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) were analyzed. We used the 2015 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria to screen for PIM, and the primary outcome was motor FIM gain. Multivariate regression analysis was carried out to analyze the relationship between PIM use and functional recovery.

Results

In total, 272 participants (102 men, 170 women; median age 79 years, interquartile range 72–85 years) were included in the present study. Multivariate regression analysis of motor FIM gain, adjusting for confounding factors, showed that PIM use was independently and negatively correlated with motor FIM gain. In particular, anticholinergic drugs (such as antipsychotics, antidepressants and first‐generation antihistamines) were significantly increased from admission to discharge.

Conclusion

Increased PIM use during hospitalization might be a predictor of reduced functional improvement in geriatric patients after strokes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 321–328.
Both B‐1a and B‐1b cells exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis lipids differentiate into IgM antibody‐secreting cells
Authors: Ordoñez Ciara , Savage Hannah P. , Tarajia Musharaf , Rivera René , Weeks‐Galindo Cheyenne , Sambrano Dilcia , Riley Lee , Fernandez Patricia L. , Baumgarth Nicole , Goodridge Amador
Published: February 2018

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The cellular immune response to mycobacteria has been characterized extensively, but the antibody response remains underexplored. The present study aimed to examine whether host or bacterial phospholipids induce secretion of IgM, and specifically anti‐phospholipid IgM, antibodies by B cells and to identify the responsible B‐cell subset. Here we show that peritoneal B cells responded to lipid antigens by secreting IgM antibodies. Specifically, stimulation with M. tuberculosis H37Rv total lipids resulted in significant induction of total and anti‐phosphatidylcholine IgM. Similarly, IgM antibody production increased significantly with stimulation by whole Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin. The B‐1 subset was the dominant source of IgM antibodies after exposure to cardiolipin. Both CD5+ B‐1a and CD5− B‐1b cell subsets secreted total IgM antibodies after exposure to M. tuberculosis H37Rv total lipids in vitro. Overall, our results suggest that the poly‐reactive B‐1 cell repertoire contributes to non‐specific anti‐phospholipid IgM antibody secretion in response to M. tuberculosis lipids.
The effect of pre‐pregnancy lifestyle counselling on food intakes and association between food intakes and gestational diabetes in high‐risk women: results from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Valkama A. J. , Meinilä J. , Koivusalo S. , Lindström J. , Rönö K. , Stach‐Lempinen B. , Kautiainen H. , Eriksson J. G.
Published: February 2018

Background

Healthy diets before and during pregnancy have been suggested to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes (GDM). Several lifestyle intervention studies for pregnant women have reported dietary improvements after counselling. However, evidence concerning the effect of counselling initiated before pregnancy on diets is limited.

Methods

This randomised controlled study explored whether pre‐pregnancy lifestyle counselling influenced food intakes, as well as whether changes in food intakes were associated with GDM. The participants comprised 75 women with prior GDM and/or a body mass index ≥ 30 kg m–2. Women were randomised into a control or an intervention group, and their food intakes were followed from pre‐pregnancy to early pregnancy using a food frequency questionnaire. The control and intervention groups were combined to assess the association between changes in food intakes and GDM. The diagnosis of GDM was based on a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test conducted in the first and second trimester of pregnancy.

Results

Pre‐pregnancy lifestyle counselling showed no major overall effect on food intakes. The intake of low‐fat cheese increased significantly in women who did not develop GDM compared to women who did after adjusting for potential confounders (P = 0.028). This association was not observed for regular‐fat cheese.

Conclusions

The findings obtained in the present study suggest that an increased intake of low‐fat but not regular‐fat cheese between pre‐pregnancy and early pregnancy is associated with a lower risk of GDM in high‐risk women.
Polymorphisms of cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) in cynomolgus and rhesus macaques
Authors: Uno Yasuhiro , Uehara Shotaro , Yamazaki Hiroshi
Published: February 2018

Background

Cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) is an important drug‐metabolizing enzyme and is expressed in liver. Although human CYP2B6 variants account for variable enzyme properties among individuals and populations, CYP2B6 genetic variants have not been investigated in cynomolgus macaques, widely used in drug metabolism studies.

Methods

CYP2B6 was resequenced in 120 cynomolgus macaques and 23 rhesus macaques by direct sequencing.

Results

Twenty‐three non‐synonymous variants were found, of which 12 and 3 were unique to cynomolgus macaques and rhesus macaques, respectively. By functional characterization using the 14 variant proteins, 8 variants (V114I, R253C, M435I, V459M, L465P, C475S, R487C, and R487H) showed different rate (>1.5‐fold) of testosterone 16β‐hydroxylation to wild type. However, the four variants (M435I, L465P, C475S, and R487H) were analyzed in liver microsomes, and the catalytic rates were not substantially different from wild type.

Conclusions

Macaque CYP2B6 was polymorphic, and the genotype could partly account for variable enzyme activities of macaque CYP2B6.
Variability of Symmetric Dimethylarginine in Apparently Healthy Dogs
Authors: Kopke M.A. , Burchell R.K. , Ruaux C.G. , Burton S.E. , Lopez‐Villalobos N. , Gal A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) is a screening tool for early kidney dysfunction and monitoring treatment in cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD). There are no current studies describing the suitability of this test for use with published population‐based reference intervals.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine the components of biological variability, the index of individuality (IOI), the critical difference between sequential measurements (CD) and the number of measurements required to assess the homeostatic set point (HSP), for both SDMA and serum creatinine (sCr), in apparently healthy dogs.

Animals

Twenty apparently healthy adult dogs owned by clients or staff at a veterinary teaching hospital.

Methods

Prospective, observational study. Blood was collected from each dog on 9 occasions, and SDMA and sCr were measured in duplicate using commercially available assays.

Results

SDMA and sCr had intermediate and low IOI values of 0.87 and 0.28, respectively. The CD of SDMA and sCr, was 1.34 µg/dL and 0.89 µmol/L, respectively. The sample numbers required for estimation of an individual's HSP (with 90 and 95% CI) for SDMA and sCr were 8 and 45, and 2 and 12 sequential measurements, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Based on our findings, in comparison to sCr, SDMA is better suited for use with population‐based reference intervals. False‐negative test results could occur when comparing a single test result from an individual to such intervals. Ideally CD should be used with sequential measurements.
The psychological impact of solitary: A longitudinal comparison of general population and long‐term administratively segregated male inmates
Authors: Chadick Carly D. , Batastini Ashley B. , Levulis Samuel J. , Morgan Robert D.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study expands upon existing research on the psychological impact of administrative segregation on inmates by addressing several methodological limitations in this body of literature.

Methods

Using a pre–post design, this study compared male general population (GP) inmates in the United States to those with up to 4 years in segregated placement across scores on the MCMI‐III.

Results

While segregated inmates reported higher levels of distress (particularly on measures of anxiety, depressed mood, post‐traumatic stress, and somatic complaints) compared to the GP at post‐assessment, scores did not reach the clinical cut‐off. Further, inmates generally did not deteriorate as time in restrictive housing increased.

Conclusions

Thus, compared to the GP, who showed some improvement in functioning, segregated inmates remained largely the same. Rather than causing significant psychological damage, it is more likely that segregation is a barrier to opportunities for continued growth. Study limitations and recommendations for reforms in the use of segregation are presented.
Sensory and cognitive contributions to age‐related changes in spoken word recognition
Authors: Johns Alexis R. , Myers Emily B. , Skoe Erika
Published: February 2018

Many older adults experience declines in auditory and cognitive abilities that negatively affect language comprehension, including spoken word recognition. In the case of auditory function, poor neural responses to sound at the earliest stages of auditory processing may adversely affect phoneme identification, and ultimately, lexical access. Declines in cognitive functions, such as inhibitory control or working memory, may also impede word recognition. Furthermore, complex interactions between auditory and cognitive declines make it difficult to distinguish these possible causes of age differences in speech perception. We review age‐related changes in spoken word recognition, with respect to current models of this process. Then, we invoke frameworks of sensory–cognitive compensation and argue that online, sensitive measures of sensory processing and of comprehension are important in distinguishing between effects of sensory and cognitive decline. We conclude that investigations of spoken word recognition in older listeners must carefully assess listener differences at early levels of auditory processing, in conjunction with cognitive abilities.
Chromatic Mediants and Narrative Context in Film
Authors: HEINE ERIK
Published: February 2018

This article examines specific narrative connotations associated with chromatic mediant motions in film music. Following the neo‐Riemannian work of theorists such as David Kopp and Richard Cohn, and film‐music theorists such as Scott Murphy and Frank Lehman, I propose a lexicon of harmonic motions and associative connotations. The article provides a survey of both major‐mode and minor‐mode chromatic mediant relationships in as many different genres of film as possible, with science‐fiction and fantasy films being most common. Through this survey I aim to demonstrate not only the extent to which chromatic mediants have become staple devices of film‐scoring harmonic practice, with meanings so consistent that they can be subverted for ironic and satirical purposes, but also to lay out a speculative path for future film‐music theorists to use these connotations in additional film contexts.
Association of dialysis with in‐hospital disability progression and mortality in community‐onset stroke
Authors: Usui Tomoko , Hanafusa Norio , Yasunaga Hideo , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: February 2018

Aim

End‐stage renal disease is associated with increased risk of cerebrovascular disease, but the effect on post‐stroke clinical outcomes has not been thoroughly investigated.

Methods

Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, which includes administrative claims and discharge abstract data, we examined the association between risk factors including dialysis therapy and in‐hospital disability progression or mortality in patients with community‐onset stroke. We extracted data of patients aged ≥ 20 years old who were admitted to the hospital within 3 days after onset of stroke between July 2010 and March 2013. The disability level was divided into modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–1, 2–3, 4–5, and 6 (death). Disability progression was defined as an increase in disability level. Odds ratios for in‐hospital disability progression and mortality were calculated using logistic regression models.

Results

Of 435 403 patients, 7562 (1.7%) received dialysis therapy. The median length of stay was 21 and 20 days for patients with and without dialysis, respectively. During the hospital stay, disability progressed in 100 402 (23.1%) patients and 45 919 (10.5%) died. Patients on dialysis had a higher prevalence of disability progression (26.8%) and mortality (13.1%) compared to those without dialysis (23.0% and 10.5%, respectively). Dialysis was associated with an increased risk of in‐hospital disability progression (odds ratio, 1.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.47–1.66) and mortality (odds ratio 1.70; 95% confidence interval, 1.57–1.84). These risks were comparable among subtypes of stroke.

Conclusions

Dialysis was associated with an increased risk of in‐hospital disability progression and mortality among patients with community‐onset stroke, regardless of stroke subtype.
Wheezing preschool children with early‐onset asthma reveal a specific metabolomic profile
Authors: Carraro Silvia , Bozzetto Sara , Giordano Giuseppe , El Mazloum Dania , Stocchero Matteo , Pirillo Paola , Zanconato Stefania , Baraldi Eugenio
Published: February 2018

Background

Many children of preschool age present with recurrent wheezing. Most of them outgrow their symptoms, while some have early‐onset asthma. Aim of this prospective preliminary study was to apply a metabolomic approach to see whether biochemical‐metabolic urinary profiles can have a role in the early identification of the children with asthma.

Methods

Preschool children with recurrent wheezing were recruited and followed up for 3 years, after which they were classified as cases of transient wheezing or early‐onset asthma. A urine sample was collected at recruitment and analyzed using a metabolomic approach based on UPLC mass spectrometry.

Results

Among 34 children aged 4.0 ± 1.1 years recruited, at the end of the 3‐year follow‐up, 16 were classified as having transient wheezing and 16 as cases of early‐onset asthma. Through a joint multivariate and univariate statistical analyses, we identified a subset of metabolomic variables that enabled the 2 groups to be clearly distinguished. The model built using the identified variables showed an AUC = 0.99 and an AUC = 0.88 on sevenfold full cross‐validation (P = .002).

Conclusions

Metabolomic urinary profile can discriminate preschoolers with recurrent wheezing who will outgrow their symptoms from those who have early‐onset asthma. These results may pave the way to the characterization of early non‐invasive biomarkers capable of predicting asthma development.
Inter‐shift variation in unscheduled intensive care unit transfers at a children's hospital
Authors: Inata Yu , Aoki Yoshihiro , Hatachi Takeshi , Shimizu Yoshiyuki , Takeuchi Muneyuki
Published: February 2018

Background

The early detection of clinical deterioration and the prompt escalation of care is important but may be limited in the general ward, especially at night. Identifying variations between work shifts in the number of unscheduled in‐hospital intensive care unit (ICU) transfers and emergency transfers involving life‐threatening conditions may help implement targeted interventions to reduce delayed transfers and improve patient safety and outcomes.

Methods

All unscheduled ICU transfers in a tertiary children's hospital, from January 2013 to December 2016, were reviewed retrospectively. The transfers were categorized into safe transfers and adverse safety events (ASE). The 4 year cumulative numbers for each transfer category in each work shift (day, evening, and night) were assessed for comparison. An ASE was defined as transfer after cardiopulmonary resuscitation or tracheal intubation in the ward, or an unrecognized situation awareness failure event transfer, which was defined as previously reported.

Results

Of 244 unscheduled in‐hospital ICU transfers, 167 were safe transfers and 77 were ASE. The number of unscheduled transfers and of ASE was highest during the day shift (n = 133 and 40, respectively) and lowest during the night shift (n = 25 and 12, respectively). In contrast, the proportion of ASE in the unscheduled transfers was higher during the night shift (48%) compared with the day and evening shifts (30% and 31%, respectively).

Conclusions

The occurrence of unscheduled ICU transfers was disproportionately low during the night shift, whereas the majority of ASE happened during the day shift. Future studies focusing on unravelling the reasons for such variations are warranted.
Naturalizing grounding: How theories of ground can engage science
Authors: Bryant Amanda
Published: February 2018

This paper surveys some of the grounding literature searching for points of contact between theories of ground and science. I find that there are some places where a would‐be naturalistic grounding theorist can draw inspiration. I synthesize a list of recommendations for how science may be put to use in theories of ground. I conclude that the prospects for naturalizing the metaphysics of ground are bright.
Just inheritance taxation
Authors: Pedersen Jørgen
Published: February 2018

This article provides a survey of key topics on just inheritance taxation. It does so by first presenting the main arguments in the debate. Here, I distinguish between arguments in the academic literature and the various arguments which have proven important in the public debate. Secondly, I outline four influential proposals when it comes to how inheritance should be taxed. Finally, I examine a recent controversy and point towards a number of themes that have not been sufficiently discussed.
Suppression of the in vitro growth and development of Microdochium nivale by phosphite
Authors: Dempsey J. J. , Wilson I. , Spencer‐Phillips P. T. N. , Arnold D.
Published: February 2018

The ascomycete fungus Microdochium nivale is a major pathogen of many species of the gramineae. Control measures rely heavily on chemical fungicides, making alternative means of disease reduction desirable. Phosphite (PO33−), has proven efficacy in reducing susceptibility of different species of gramineae to oomycetes, and has adverse effects on the in vitro growth of numerous other pathogens. The effect of phosphorous acid (H3PO3), phosphoric acid (H3PO4), dihydrogen potassium phosphite (KH2PO3), dihydrogen potassium phosphate (KH2PO4) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) on the in vitro mycelial growth and development of M. nivale was determined. Radial growth on amended potato dextrose agar (PDA) was used to calculate mean daily growth and percentage inhibition. PO33− had a significant inhibitory effect on mycelial growth, with EC50 values ranging between 35.9 and 40.99 μg mL−1, whilst PO43− and KOH had no significant inhibitory effect. Microscopic examination of mycelia showed morphological deformities in hyphae growing on PO33− amended PDA, whilst hyphal growth was normal on PO43− and KOH amended PDA. Conidial germination of M. nivale was significantly reduced following immersion in solutions of 50, 100 and 250 μg mL−1 of PO33−, while PO43− and KOH at the same concentrations induced no inhibitory affect. These results show that PO33− is a significant inhibitor of the growth of M. nivale and may have the potential to be used as a chemical control agent in the field.
Beyond the professional development academy: Teachers' retention of discipline‐specific science content knowledge throughout a 3‐year mathematics and science partnership
Authors: Clary Renee M. , Elder Anastasia , Dunne James , Saebo Svein , Beard Debbie , Wax Charles , Tucker Deborah L.
Published: February 2018

The Teacher Academy in the Natural Sciences (TANS) provided middle school (U.S. Grades 6–8) teachers (N = 81) with intensive professional development (PD) in chemistry, geosciences, and physics, with teachers enrolled in one scientific discipline per year. Because some teachers were retained and rotated into different disciplines, the TANS program investigated retention of science content 1–2 years beyond an instructional year. All teacher participants exhibited significant gains (p < .001), in chemistry, geosciences, or physics content, between their incoming knowledge and the 10‐day summer academy's conclusion. Chemistry and geosciences content were retained until the end of the PD year. Physics participants reported a significant loss (p < .001), although gains from teachers' incoming knowledge were still significant. When retention was measured beyond the instructional year, only the geosciences content was retained. Chemistry and physics gains were not retained, with no significant differences between incoming teachers' knowledge and content 1–2 years post instruction. Our research indicates that science content support is needed after PD programs, and importantly, that the support differs between scientific disciplines.
Elucidation of the origin of ‘agriocrithon’ based on domestication genes questions the hypothesis that Tibet is one of the centers of barley domestication
Authors: Pourkheirandish Mohammad , Kanamori Hiroyuki , Wu Jianzhong , Sakuma Shun , Blattner Frank R. , Komatsuda Takao
Published: February 2018

Wild barley forms a two‐rowed spike with a brittle rachis whereas domesticated barley has two‐ or six‐rowed spikes with a tough rachis. Like domesticated barley, ‘agriocrithon’ forms a six‐rowed spike; however, the spike is brittle as in wild barley, which makes the origin of agriocrithon obscure. Haplotype analysis of the Six‐rowed spike 1 (vrs1) and Non‐brittle rachis 1 (btr1) and 2 (btr2) genes was conducted to infer the origin of agriocrithon barley. Some agriocrithon barley accessions (eu‐agriocrithon) carried Btr1 and Btr2 haplotypes that are not found in any cultivars, implying that they are directly derived from wild barley through a mutation at the vrs1 locus. Other agriocrithon barley accessions (pseudo‐agriocrithon) carried Btr1 or Btr2 from cultivated barley, thus implying that they originated from hybridization between six‐rowed landraces carrying btr1Btr2 and Btr1btr2 genotypes followed by recombination to produce Btr1Btr2. All materials we collected from Tibet belong to pseudo‐agriocrithon and thus do not support the Tibetan Plateau as being a center of barley domestication. Tracing the evolutionary history of these allelic variants revealed that eu‐agriocrithon represents six‐rowed barley lineages that were selected by early farmers, once in south‐eastern Turkmenistan (vrs1.a1) and again in the eastern part of Uzbekistan (vrs1.a4).
Comparison between magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and arthrography to identify artificially induced cartilage defects of the equine carpal joints
Authors: Suarez Sanchez‐Andrade José , Richter Henning , Kuhn Karolin , Bischofberger Andrea S. , Kircher Patrick R. , Hoey Séamus
Published: February 2018

While articular cartilage changes are considered to be one of the initial events in the pathological cascade leading to osteoarthritis, these changes remain difficult to detect using conventional diagnostic imaging modalities such as plain radiography. The aim of this prospective, experimental, methods comparison study was to compare the sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance arthrography, computed tomography (CT), and CT arthrography in the detection of artificially induced articular cartilage defects in the equine carpal joints. Defects were created in the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joint using curettage by a board‐certified equine surgeon. Normal articular cartilage thickness varied from a maximum of 1.22 mm at the level of the distal aspect of the radius to a minimum of 0.17 mm in the proximal articular surface of the third carpal bone. Regarding cartilaginous defect measurements the remaining cartilaginous bed range from a maximum of 0.776 mm in the partial thickness defects, and 0 mm (defect reaches the subchondral bone) when total thickness defect were made. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed followed by CT arthrography and magnetic resonance arthrography after antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal intraarticular contrast administration. All images were reviewed by two board‐certified veterinary radiologists, both of whom were blinded to the location, presence of, and thickness of the cartilage defects. A total number of 72 lesions in nine limbs were created. Mean sensitivity for localizing cartilage defects varied between imaging modalities with CT arthrography showing the best sensitivity (69.9%), followed by magnetic resonance arthrography (53.5%), MRI (33.3%), and CT (18.1%) respectively. The addition of contrast arthrography in both magnetic resonance and CT improved the rate of cartilage lesion detection although no statistical significance was found. Computed tomographic arthrography displayed the best sensitivity for detecting articular cartilage defects in the equine antebrachiocarpal and middle‐carpal joints, compared to magnetic resonance arthrography, MRI, and CT.
Europe's first artists were Neandertals
Authors: Appenzeller Tim
Published: February 2018

Spanish cave paintings date to before modern humans arrived in region.
Coral reefs will transition to net dissolving before end of century
Authors: Eyre Bradley D. , Cyronak Tyler , Drupp Patrick , De Carlo Eric Heinen , Sachs Julian P. , Andersson Andreas J.
Published: February 2018

Acid reef-flux

The uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is reducing the pH of the oceans. Ocean acidification means that calcium carbonate—the material with which coral reefs are built—will be more difficult for organisms to generate and will dissolve more quickly. Eyre
et al.
report that some reefs are already experiencing net sediment dissolution. Worryingly, the rates of loss will increase as ocean acidification intensifies.

Science
, this issue p.
908
BAK/BAX macropores facilitate mitochondrial herniation and mtDNA efflux during apoptosis
Authors: McArthur Kate , Whitehead Lachlan W. , Heddleston John M. , Li Lucy , Padman Benjamin S. , Oorschot Viola , Geoghegan Niall D. , Chappaz Stephane , Davidson Sophia , San Chin Hui , Lane Rachael M. , Dramicanin Marija , Saunders Tahnee L. , Sugiana Canny , Lessene Romina , Osellame Laura D. , Chew Teng-Leong , Dewson Grant , Lazarou Michael , Ramm Georg , Lessene Guillaume , Ryan Michael T. , Rogers Kelly L. , van Delft Mark F. , Kile Benjamin T.
Published: February 2018

The great escape

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a potent damage-associated molecular pattern that, if it reaches the cytoplasm or extracellular milieu, triggers innate immune pathways. mtDNA signaling has been implicated in a wide range of diseases; however, the mechanisms of mtDNA release are unclear, and the process has not been observed in real time thus far. McArthur
et al.
used live-cell lattice light-sheet microscopy to look at mtDNA release during intrinsic apoptosis. Activation of the pro-death proteins BAK and BAX resulted in the formation of large macro-pores in the mitochondrial outer membrane. These massive holes caused the inner mitochondrial membrane to balloon out into the cytoplasm, resulting in mitochondrial herniation. This process allowed the contents of the mitochondrial matrix, including mtDNA, to escape into the cytoplasm.

Science
, this issue p.
eaao6047
Real-time imaging of DNA loop extrusion by condensin
Authors: Ganji Mahipal , Shaltiel Indra A. , Bisht Shveta , Kim Eugene , Kalichava Ana , Haering Christian H. , Dekker Cees
Published: February 2018

Live imaging of DNA loop extrusion

To spatially organize chromosomes, ring-shaped protein complexes including condensin and cohesin have been hypothesized to extrude DNA loops. Condensin has been shown to exhibit a DNA-translocating motor function, but extrusion has not been observed directly. Using single-molecule imaging, Ganji
et al.
visualized in real time a condensin-mediated, adenosine triphosphate-dependent, fast DNA loop extrusion process. Loop extrusion occurred asymmetrically, with condensin reeling in only one end of the DNA. These data provide unambiguous evidence of a loop extrusion mechanism for chromosome organization.

Science
, this issue p.
102
Repetitive squatting exercise as a diagnostic predictor in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sveric Krunoslav Michael , Ulbrich Stefan , Rady Mohamed , Pflücke Christian , Quick Silvio , Katzke Stefanie , Ibrahim Karim , Strasser Ruth H , Jellinghaus Stefanie
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterised by a highly variable disease progression. Stress echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) are beneficial in risk assessment, but are labour intensive. Repetitive squatting and standing without weights is a simple exercise (EX). The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic role of left ventricular (LV) contractile recruitment (CR) after a simple EX of repetitive squatting through three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography.

Methods

Patients with DCM (LV ejection fraction (EF)<50%, n=68) and age-matched healthy volunteers (n=25) received a 3D echocardiographic evaluation of LV EF before and after 30 repetitions of squatting-standing EX. CR was defined by the change of LV EF (Δ>4%). Patients were followed up prospectively (2 years) for cardiac death and deteriorating heart failure.

Results

During follow-up, 14 cardiac events occurred (21%) with six deaths and eight severe heart failure deteriorations. A poor CR after squatting EX differentiated DCM patients with cardiac events during follow-up as accurately as a reduced peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2<20 mL/kg/min) (sensitivity: 0.97 and 0.95). Both had a significant incremental diagnostic value over clinical (age, dyspnoea and natriuretic peptide level) or resting echocardiographic parameters (E/E’ ratio, LV EF and end-diastolic LV volume) to predict cardiac events (global χ2: 16.0 vs 5.3; 19.5 vs 6.1; P<0.01 for all).

Conclusions

The presence of LV CR after EX of repetitive squatting without weights can stratify risk and predict cardiac events in patients with DCM as correct as CPET.
Evaluation of sensory attributes of HanwooLongissimus dorsimuscle and its relationships with intramuscular fat, shear force, and environmental factors
Authors: Gajaweera Chandima , Chung Ki Yong , Kwon Eung Gi , Hwang In Ho , Cho Soo Hyun , Lee Seung Hwan
Published: February 2018

We examined the relationship of Hanwoo (Bos taurus coreana) beef sensory attributes with intramuscular fat (IMF), Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF), and other environmental factors. Samples of 458 beef carcasses including 32 cows, 34 steers, and 392 bulls were analyzed for IMF percentage, WBSF, and important sensory attributes (tenderness, juiciness, and flavour-likeness). Results revealed that steer beef had significantly higher scores for all three sensory attributes than beef from cows and bulls. While juiciness and flavour-likeness differed (p < 0.05) among bulls and cows, they were not associated an effect on tenderness. All sensory attributes and WBSF were correlated (p < 0.001) with IMF; the highest correlation coefficient was for tenderness (0.55) while a negative coefficient (−0.39) was found for WBSF. The influence of IMF level on all three sensory attributes of bull beef significantly increased with IMF level. All sensory attributes of steer and bull beef showed negative relationship (p < 0.01) with WBSF, where highest correlation coefficient (−0.8) found for steer beef tenderness. Furthermore, tenderness and flavour-likeness showed lower ranks for meats slaughtered during the winter season; however, juiciness did not differ (p < 0.05) among seasons.
Theoretical insight into the substituent effects on the antioxidant properties of 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives in gas phase and in polar solvents
Authors: El-Hadj Saïd Anes , Mekelleche Sidi Mohamed , Ardjani Taki-Eddine Ahmed
Published: February 2018

The objective of this work is to perform a theoretical analysis of the antioxidant properties of a series of 8-hydroxyquinolines (8-HQs) to rationalize the available experimental results and to design new potent 8-HQ derivatives. The study was carried out in gas phase and in methanol at the DFT/B3LYP/ 6-311++G(d,p) computational level. The formation of stable ArO• radicals is discussed on the basis of different mechanisms, namely, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), single electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT), and single proton loss electron transfer (SPLET). The obtained results show that the HAT mechanism is, thermodynamically, more favoured in gas phase, whereas the SPLET pathway is more favoured in polar solvents. The calculated thermochemical descriptors allow classification of the antioxidant power of the studied compounds.
Growth and defence of aspen (Populus tremula) after three seasons under elevated temperature and ultraviolet-B radiation
Authors: Sivadasan Unnikrishnan , Chenhao Cao , Nissinen Katri , Randriamanana Tendry , Nybakken Line , Julkunen-Tiitto Riitta
Published: February 2018

The predicted climate change will affect the growth and secondary chemistry of plants, but most studies only include leaves and leave out the effects on the secondary chemistry of other plant parts. In a field experiment, we studied the stem phenolic chemistry, as well as the growth of male and female genotypes, of aspen (Populus tremula L.) after three years under single (T, UVA, UVB) and combined (UVA + T, UVB + T) treatments at elevated temperature (T, +2 °C) and ultraviolet-B radiation (+30% UVB). In addition, bud mass and photosynthesis, as well as leaf rust attack and leaf herbivory, were measured. We found that elevated temperature markedly reduced concentrations of salicylates, which were the most abundant compounds among the low relative molecular mass phenolics in the stem. Elevated temperature also increased the biomass, height, and diameter of both males and females, as well as leaf area and herbivory damage in leaves. In combination with UVB, elevated temperature decreased the height of both males and females. Moreover, male buds were bigger than female buds, and females had higher chlorophyll content than males. To conclude, warming promoted growth and reduced phenolic concentration in stems of P. tremula with little difference between the sexes during the adult vegetative phase. UVB had no individual effects on any of the studied variables, implying that the plants were fairly tolerant to increased UVB levels.
Mercury exposure to red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) and dragonfly (Odonata: Aeshnidae) nymphs in Prairie Pothole wetlands
Authors: Wolfe Jared D. , Lane Oksana P. , Brigham R. Mark , Hall Britt D.
Published: February 2018

The Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) in the northern Great Plains is an area of ecological significance, serving as an important breeding site for avian wildlife. However, organisms feeding within the PPR may be at risk of mercury (Hg) exposure due to deposition of anthropogenic emissions and the high Hg methylation potential of PPR wetlands. We quantified Hg concentrations in red-winged blackbirds’ ( Agelaius phoeniceus (Linnaeus, 1766); RWBLs) blood, feathers, and eggs in the spring and summer breeding season and compared our values with those from RWBLs sampled from ecoregions across North America. Hg concentrations in whole water, aeshnid dragonfly nymphs, and RWBL tissues varied by wetland and were below those considered to elicit acute effects in wildlife, and egg total Hg (THg) concentrations were significantly related to spring whole water methylmercury concentrations. Only RWBL blood THg concentrations showed a clear increase in summer compared with spring, resulting in decoupling of summer blood and feather THg concentrations. Moreover, blood THg concentrations varied by ecoregion, with those impacted by an industrial point source exhibiting high Hg levels. Our study emphasizes that tissue renewal time as well as ecological factors such as competition and diet shifts are important considerations when using RWBLs to assess biological Hg exposure.
Structural, stability, and vibrational properties of BinPm clusters
Authors: Shen Wanting , Han Lihong , Liang Dan , Zhang Chunfang , Ruge Quhe , Wang Shumin , Lu Pengfei
Published: February 2018

An in-depth investigation is performed on stability mechanisms, electronic and optical properties of III–V semiconductor vapor phases clusters. First principles electronic structure calculations of CAM-B3LYP are performed on neutral Bi[Formula: see text]P[Formula: see text] (n + m [Formula: see text] 14) clusters. The geometrical evolution of all stable structures remains amorphous as the clusters size increases. Binding energies (BEs), energy gains and highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO–LUMO) gaps confirm that all four-atom structures of Bi[Formula: see text]P[Formula: see text] clusters have more stable optical properties. Orbitals composition and vibrational spectra of stable clusters are analyzed. Our calculations will contribute to the study of diluted bismuth alloys and compounds.
Heat transport in an anharmonic crystal
Authors: Acharya Shiladitya , Mukherjee Krishnendu
Published: February 2018

We study transport of heat in an ordered, anharmonic crystal in the form of slab geometry in three dimensions. Apart from attaching baths of Langevin type to two extreme surfaces, we also attach baths of same type to the intermediate surfaces of the slab. Since the crystal is uninsulated, it exchanges energy with the intermediate heat baths. We find that both Fourier’s law of heat conduction and the Newton’s law of cooling hold to leading order in anharmonic coupling. The leading behavior of the temperature profile is exponentially falling from high to low temperature surface of the slab. As the anharmonicity increases, profiles fall more below the harmonic one in the log plot. In the thermodynamic limit thermal conductivity remains independent of the environment temperature and its leading order anharmonic contribution is linearly proportional to the temperature change between the two extreme surfaces of the slab. A fast crossover from one-dimensional (1D) to three-dimensional (3D) behavior of the thermal conductivity is observed in the system.
Transfer of a wave packet in double-well potential
Authors: Yang Hai-Feng , Hu Yao-Hua , Tan Yong-Gang
Published: February 2018

Energy potentials with double-well structures are typical in atoms and molecules systems. A manipulation scheme using Half Cycles Pulses (HCPs) is proposed to transfer a Gaussian wave packet between the two wells. On the basis of quantum mechanical simulations, the time evolution and the energy distribution of the wave packet are evaluated. The effect of time parameters, amplitude, and number of HCPs on spatial and energy distribution of the final state and transfer efficiency are investigated. After a carefully tailored HCPs sequence is applied to the initial wave packet localized in one well, the final state is a wave packet localized in the other well and populated at the lower energy levels with narrower distribution. The present scheme could be used to control molecular reactions and to prepare atoms with large dipole moments.
SYSTEMATIC EXPLORATION OF THE EFFECTS OF CR-DOPING ON MICROSTRUCTURE, INSULATING, AND FERROELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF BiFeO3 THIN FILM
Authors: SUI HUITING , SUN HUAJUN , LIU XIAOFANG , GUO SHANSHAN , YANG HUAN , XU RENXIN
Published: February 2018

BiFe[Formula: see text]CrxO3 ([Formula: see text]BFCO, [Formula: see text], 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05) thin films were successfully fabricated onto Pt(111)/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrate via a solgel process. The correlation between microstructure and insulating, ferroelectric properties of [Formula: see text]BFCO thin films are investigated. The leakage behavior for all the thin films is in accordance with the Ohmic conduction and FN Tunneling emission during low and high electric field region, respectively. Compared with the pure BFO, all the thin films with Cr[Formula: see text] doping possess reduced leakage current density by 1–2 orders of magnitude, with the lowest value approximately 10[Formula: see text] at 200[Formula: see text]kV/cm. Moreover, the 0.04BFCO thin film exhibits the maximum remanent polarization ([Formula: see text]) value of 29.8[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]C/cm2 with a great fatigue behavior, which could be ascribed to the absence of impurity phase and reduced leakage current.
Differences in Phase Change Processes Upon Heating Between Co and Zn-ZIF-4 Compounds
Authors: Li Kaihui , Xiao Haiyan , He Jianxiong , Jiang Hong
Published: February 2018

Zn and Co-ZIF-4 meta-stable compounds adopt the same topology of Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF)-4, but differ in the metal nodes (Zn versus Co). Using calorimetric and thermogravimetric analysis, here we characterized their differences in phase change processes. Upon heating, the framework of Co-ZIF-4 meta-stable crystal undergoes the crystal-to-amorphous phase transition at 590[Formula: see text]K, which is somewhat lower than the corresponding transition previously reported in the corresponding Zn-ZIF-4. In addition, the recrystallization rate for amorphous Co-ZIF-4 is relatively higher than the corresponding one of Zn-ZIF-4. Finally, the forming Co–zni crystal begins to melt at about 824[Formula: see text]K, accompanied by quick decomposition, whereas Zn–zni undergoes complete melting which finishes at around 850[Formula: see text]K without any decomposition. Based on their differences in chemistry for Co and Zn, we elucidated the chemical origin of the discrepancies of phase transition process for Zn and Co-ZIF-4 compounds upon heating.
Mathematical modeling approach to the transmission dynamics of pine wilt disease with saturated incidence rate
Authors: Khan Muhammad Altaf , Shah Kamil , Khan Yasir , Islam Saeed
Published: February 2018

The present paper investigates the dynamics of pine wilt disease with saturated incidence rate. The proposed model is stable both locally and globally. The local stability of the disease-free equilibrium is determined by the basic reproduction [Formula: see text]. The disease-free equilibrium is stable locally and globally whenever [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text], then the endemic state is stable both locally and globally. Further, a brief discussion with conclusion on the numerical results of the proposed model is presented.
On certain coloring parameters of Mycielski graphs of some graphs
Authors: Sudev N. K. , Chithra K. P. , Germina K. A. , Satheesh S. , Kok Johan
Published: February 2018

Coloring the vertices of a graph [Formula: see text] according to certain conditions can be considered as a random experiment and a discrete random variable [Formula: see text] can be defined as the number of vertices having a particular color in the proper coloring of [Formula: see text]. The concepts of mean and variance, two important statistical measures, have also been introduced to the theory of graph coloring and determined the values of these parameters for a number of standard graphs. In this paper, we discuss the coloring parameters of the Mycielskian of certain standard graphs.