Search

The article focuses on the threat posed by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses, particularly the Eurasian strain (clade 2.3.4.4b), which has caused outbreaks in North America and raised concerns due to spillover into mammals and severe human cases in Ecuador and Chile. Topics include the syndrome observed in lactating dairy cattle in Texas and neighboring regions in early 2024, characterized by reduced milk production and nonspecific clinical signs.

There is a pressing need for more‐holistic approaches to fisheries assessments along with growing demand to reduce the health impacts of sample collections. Metabolomic tools enable the use of sample matrices that can be collected with minimal impact on the organism (e.g., blood, urine, and mucus) and provide high‐throughput, untargeted biochemical information without the requirement of a sequenced genome. These qualities make metabolomics ideal for monitoring a wide range of fish species, particularly those under protected status. In the current study, we surveyed the relative abundances of 120 endogenous metabolites in epidermal mucus across eight freshwater fish species belonging to seven phylogenetic orders. Principal component analysis was used to provide an overview of the data set, revealing strong interspecies relationships in the epidermal mucous metabolome. Normalized relative abundances of individual endogenous metabolites were then used to identify commonalities across multiple species, as well as those metabolites that showed notable species specificity. For example, taurine was measured in high relative abundance in the epidermal mucus of common carp (Cyprinus carpio), northern pike (Esox lucius), golden shiner (Notemigonus crysoleucas), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax), whereas γ‐amino butyric acid (GABA) exhibited a uniquely high relative abundance in flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris). Finally, hierarchical cluster analysis was used to evaluate species relatedness as characterized by both the epidermal mucous metabolome (phenotype) and genetic phylogeny (genotype). This comparison revealed species for which relatedness in the epidermal mucous metabolome composition closely aligns with phylogenetic relatedness (e.g., N. crysoleucas and C. carpio), as well as species for which these two measures are not well aligned (e.g., P. olivaris and Polyodon spathula). These, and other findings reported here, highlight novel areas for future research with fish, including development of epidermal mucous‐based markers for non‐invasive health monitoring, sex determination, and hypoxia tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Cubresa Spark is a novel benchtop silicon-photomultiplier (SiPM)-based preclinical SPECT system. SiPMs in SPECT significantly improve resolution and reduce detector size compared to preclinical cameras with photomultiplier tubes requiring highly magnifying collimators. The NEMA NU 1 Standard for Performance Measurements of Gamma Cameras provides methods that can be readily applied or extended to characterize preclinical cameras with minor modifications. The primary objective of this study is to characterize the Spark according to the NEMA NU 1-2018 standard to gain insight into its nuclear medicine imaging capabilities. The secondary objective is to validate a GATE Monte Carlo simulation model of the Spark for use in preclinical SPECT studies. Methods: NEMA NU 1-2018 guidelines were applied to characterize the Spark's intrinsic, system, and tomographic performance with single- and multi-pinhole collimators. Phantoms were fabricated according to NEMA specifications with deviations involving high-resolution modifications. GATE was utilized to model the detector head with the single-pinhole collimator, and NEMA measurements were employed to tune and validate the model. Single-pinhole and multi-pinhole SPECT data were reconstructed with the Software for Tomographic Image Reconstruction and HiSPECT, respectively. Results: The limiting intrinsic resolution was measured as 0.85 mm owing to a high-resolution SiPM array combined with a 3 mm-thick scintillation crystal. The average limiting tomographic resolution was 1.37 mm and 1.19 mm for the single- and multi-pinhole collimators, respectively, which have magnification factors near unity at the center of rotation. The maximum observed count rate was 15,400 cps, and planar sensitivities of 34 cps/MBq and 150 cps/MBq were measured at the center of rotation for the single- and multi-pinhole collimators, respectively. All simulated tests agreed well with measurement, where the most considerable deviations were below 7%. Conclusions: NEMA NU 1-2018 standards determined that a SiPM detector mitigates the need for highly magnifying pinhole collimators while preserving detailed information in projection images. Measured and simulated NEMA results were highly comparable with differences on the order of a few percent, confirming simulation accuracy and validating the GATE model. Of the collimators initially provided with the Spark, the multi-pinhole collimator offers high resolution and sensitivity for organ-specific imaging of small animals, and the single-pinhole collimator enables high-resolution whole-body imaging of small animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a mature B cell neoplasm with a predilection for older individuals. While previous studies have identified epigenetic signatures associated with CLL, whether age-related DNA methylation changes modulate CLL relapse remains elusive. In this study, we examined the association between epigenetic age acceleration and time to CLL relapse in a publicly available dataset. DNA methylation profiling of 35 CLL patients prior to initiating chemoimmunotherapy was performed using the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip. Four epigenetic age acceleration metrics (intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration [IEAA], extrinsic epigenetic age acceleration [EEAA], PhenoAge acceleration [PhenoAA], and GrimAge acceleration [GrimAA]) were estimated from blood DNA methylation levels. Linear, quantile, and logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were conducted to assess the association between each epigenetic age metric and time to CLL relapse. EEAA (p = 0.011) and PhenoAA (p = 0.046) were negatively and GrimAA (p = 0.040) was positively associated with time to CLL relapse. Simultaneous assessment of EEAA and GrimAA in male patients distinguished patients who relapsed early from patients who relapsed later (p = 0.039). No associations were observed with IEAA. These findings suggest epigenetic age acceleration prior to chemoimmunotherapy initiation is associated with time to CLL relapse. Our results provide novel insight into the association between age-related DNA methylation changes and CLL relapse and may serve has biomarkers for treatment relapse, and potentially, treatment selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Little is known regarding the demographic, sexual, and relationship characteristics of men with symptoms of delayed ejaculation (DE). Aim To identify differences between men with and without DE symptomology to validate face-valid diagnostic criteria and to identify various functional correlates of DE. Methods A total of 2679 men meeting inclusion criteria were partitioned into groups with and without DE symptomology on the basis of their self-reported "difficulty reaching ejaculation/orgasm during partnered sex." Men were then compared on a broad array of demographic and relationship variables, as well as sexual response variables assessed during partnered sex and masturbation. Outcomes Outcomes included the identified differences between men with and without DE symptomology. Results Men with DE—whether having comorbid erectile dysfunction or not—differed from men without DE on 5 face-valid variables related to previously proposed diagnostic criteria for DE, including ones related to ejaculation latency (P  < .001); self-efficacy related to reaching ejaculation, as assessed by the percentage of episodes reaching ejaculation during partnered sex (P  < .001); and negative consequences of the impairment, including "bother/distress" and (lack of) "orgasmic pleasure/sexual satisfaction" (P  < .001). All such differences were associated with medium to large effect sizes. In addition, men showed differences on a number of functional correlates of DE, including anxiety, relationship satisfaction, frequency of partnered sex and masturbation, and level of symptomology during partnered sex vs masturbation (P  < .001). Clinical Implications Face-valid criteria for the diagnosis of DE were statistically verified, and functional correlates of DE relevant to guiding and focusing treatment were identified. Strengths and Limitations In this first comprehensive analysis of its kind, we have demonstrated widespread differences on sexual and relationship variables relevant to the diagnosis of DE and to its functional correlates between men with and without DE symptomology during partnered sex. Limitations include participant recruitment through social media, which likely biased the sample; the use of estimated rather than clocked ejaculation latencies; and the fact that differences between men with acquired and lifelong DE were not investigated. Conclusion This well-powered multinational study provides strong empirical support for several face-valid measures for the diagnosis of DE, with a number of explanatory and control covariates that may help shed light on the lived experiences of men with DE and suggest focus areas for treatment. Whether or not the DE men had comorbid erectile dysfunction had little impact on the differences with men having normal ejaculatory functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circulating protease inhibitors are important regulators of inflammation that are implicated in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) is a serine protease inhibitor which protects pulmonary tissues against inflammatory damage; however, its role in HF is not well understood. We sought to evaluate associations of circulating SLPI and genetically-mediated serum SLPI with incident HF and its subtypes in a multi-ethnic cohort of adults using clinical and genetic epidemiological approaches. Among 2,297 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), each doubling of serum SLPI was independently associated with incident HF (HR 1.77; 95% CI 1.02–3.02; P = 0.04), particularly incident HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF; HR 2.44; 95% CI 1.23–4.84; P = 0.01) but not HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF; HR 0.95; 95% CI 0.36–2.46; P = 0.91). Previously reported circulating SLPI protein quantitative trait loci (pQTLs) were not associated with serum SLPI levels or incident HF among MESA participants. In conclusion, baseline serum SLPI levels, but not genetically-determined serum SLPI, were significantly associated with incident HF and HFpEF over long-term follow-up in a multi-ethnic cohort. Serum circulating SLPI may be a correlate of inflammation that sheds insight on the pathobiology of HFpEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroimaging with [2,2-dimethyl-3-[(2R,3E)-3-oxidoiminobutan-2-yl]azanidylpropyl]-[(2R,3E)-3-hydroxyiminobutan-2-yl]azanide;oxo(99Tc)technetium-99(3+) ([99mTc]HMPAO) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is used in Alzheimer's disease (AD) to evaluate regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). Hypoperfusion in select temporoparietal regions has been observed in human AD. However, it is unknown whether AD hypoperfusion signatures are also present in the 5XFAD mouse model. The current study was undertaken to compare baseline brain perfusion between 5XFAD and wild-type (WT) mice using [99mTc]HMPAO SPECT and determine whether hypoperfusion is recapitulated in 5XFAD mice. 5XFAD and WT mice underwent a 45 min SPECT scan, 20 min after [99mTc]HMPAO administration. Whole brain and regional standardized uptake values (SUV) and regional relative standardized uptake values (SUVR) with whole brain reference were compared between groups. Brain perfusion was similar between WT and 5XFAD brains. Whole brain [99mTc]HMPAO retention revealed no significant difference in SUV (5XFAD, 0.372 ± 0.762; WT, 0.640 ± 0.955; p = 0.536). Similarly, regional analysis revealed no significant differences in [99mTc]HMPAO metrics between groups (SUV: 0.357 ≤ p ≤ 0.640; SUVR: 0.595 ≤ p ≤ 0.936). These results suggest apparent discrepancies in rCBF between human AD and the 5XFAD model. Establishing baseline perfusion patterns in 5XFAD mice is essential to inform pre-clinical diagnostic and therapeutic drug discovery programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid zones provide valuable opportunities to understand the genomic mechanisms that promote speciation by providing insight into factors involved in intermediate stages of speciation. Here, we investigate introgression in a hybrid zone between two rattlesnake species (Crotalus viridis and Crotalus oreganus concolor) that have undergone historical allopatric divergence and recent range expansion and secondary contact. We use Bayesian genomic cline models to characterize genomic patterns of introgression between these lineages and identify loci potentially subject to selection in hybrids. We find evidence for a large number of genomic regions with biased ancestry that deviate from the genomic background in hybrids (i.e., excess ancestry loci), which tend to be associated with genomic regions with higher recombination rates. We also identify suites of excess ancestry loci that show highly correlated allele frequencies (including conspecific and heterospecific combinations) across physically unlinked genomic regions in hybrids. Our findings provide evidence for multiple multilocus evolutionary processes impacting hybrid fitness in this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Marijuana is the third most commonly used drug in the USA and efforts to legalize it for medical and recreational use are growing. Despite the increase in use, marijuana's effect on aging remains understudied and understanding the effects of marijuana on molecular aging may provide novel insights into the role of marijuana in the aging process. We therefore sought to investigate the association between cumulative and recent use of marijuana with epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) as estimated from blood DNA methylation. Results: A random subset of participants from The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study with available whole blood at examination years (Y) 15 and Y20 underwent epigenomic profiling. Four EAA estimates (intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration, extrinsic epigenetic age acceleration, PhenoAge acceleration, and GrimAge acceleration) were calculated from DNA methylation levels measured at Y15 and Y20. Ever use and cumulative marijuana-years were calculated from the baseline visit to Y15 and Y20, and recent marijuana use (both any and number of days of use in the last 30 days) were calculated at Y15 and Y20. Ever use of marijuana and each additional marijuana-year were associated with a 6-month (P < 0.001) and a 2.5-month (P < 0.001) higher average in GrimAge acceleration (GAA) using generalized estimating equations, respectively. Recent use and each additional day of recent use were associated with a 20-month (P < 0.001) and a 1-month (P < 0.001) higher GAA, respectively. A statistical interaction between marijuana-years and alcohol consumption on GAA was observed (P = 0.011), with nondrinkers exhibiting a higher GAA (β = 0.21 [95% CI 0.05, 0.36], P = 0.008) compared to heavy drinkers (β = 0.05 [95% CI − 0.09, 0.18], P = 0.500) per each additional marijuana-year. No associations were observed for the remaining EAA estimates. Conclusions: These findings suggest cumulative and recent marijuana use are associated with age-related epigenetic changes that are related to lifespan. These observed associations may be modified by alcohol consumption. Given the increase in use and legalization, these findings provide novel insight on the effect of marijuana use on the aging process as captured through blood DNA methylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex chromosomes diverge after the establishment of recombination suppression, resulting in differential sex-linkage of genes involved in genetic sex determination and dimorphic traits. This process produces systems of male or female heterogamety wherein the Y and W chromosomes are only present in one sex and are often highly degenerated. Sex-limited Y and W chromosomes contain valuable information about the evolutionary transition from autosomes to sex chromosomes, yet detailed characterizations of the structure, composition, and gene content of sex-limited chromosomes are lacking for many species. In this study, we characterize the female-specific W chromosome of the prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) and evaluate how recombination suppression and other processes have shaped sex chromosome evolution in ZW snakes. Our analyses indicate that the rattlesnake W chromosome is over 80% repetitive and that an abundance of GC-rich mdg4 elements has driven an overall high degree of GC-richness despite a lack of recombination. The W chromosome is also highly enriched for repeat sequences derived from endogenous retroviruses and likely acts as a "refugium" for these and other retroelements. We annotated 219 putatively functional W-linked genes across at least two evolutionary strata identified based on estimates of sequence divergence between Z and W gametologs. The youngest of these strata is relatively gene-rich, however gene expression across strata suggests retained gene function amidst a greater degree of degeneration following ancient recombination suppression. Functional annotation of W-linked genes indicates a specialization of the W chromosome for reproductive and developmental function since recombination suppression from the Z chromosome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Well-resolved phylogeny of the swallow family using genome-wide UCE data. • Thorough taxon sampling including representatives of the majority of species. • Resolution of previously problematic deep nodes in the swallow tree. • Examination of the timing of diversification and historical biogeography. • Phylogeny provides a framework for studying the evolution of nesting and sociality. Swallows (Hirundinidae) are a globally distributed family of passerine birds that exhibit remarkable similarity in body shape but tremendous variation in plumage, sociality, nesting behavior, and migratory strategies. As a result, swallow species have become models for empirical behavioral ecology and evolutionary studies, and variation across the Hirundinidae presents an excellent opportunity for comparative analyses of trait evolution. Exploiting this potential requires a comprehensive and well-resolved phylogenetic tree of the family. To address this need, we estimated swallow phylogeny using genetic data from thousands of ultraconserved element (UCE) loci sampled from nearly all recognized swallow species. Maximum likelihood, coalescent-based, and Bayesian approaches yielded a well-resolved phylogenetic tree to the generic level, with minor disagreement among inferences at the species level, which likely reflect ongoing population genetic processes. The UCE data were particularly useful in helping to resolve deep nodes, which previously confounded phylogenetic reconstruction efforts. Divergence time estimates from the improved swallow tree support a Miocene origin of the family, roughly 13 million years ago, with subsequent diversification of major groups in the late Miocene and Pliocene. Our estimates of historical biogeography support the hypothesis that swallows originated in the Afrotropics and have subsequently expanded across the globe, with major in situ diversification in Africa and a secondary major radiation following colonization of the Neotropics. Initial examination of nesting and sociality indicates that the origin of mud nesting – a relatively rare nest construction phenotype in birds – was a major innovation coincident with the origin of a clade giving rise to over 40% of extant swallow diversity. In contrast, transitions between social and solitary nesting appear less important for explaining patterns of diversification among swallows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Now in their 5th decade of research and development, conducting polymers represent an interesting class of materials to underpin new wearable or conformable electronic devices. Of particular interest over the years has been poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), commonly known as PEDOT, owing to its ease of fabrication and relative stability under typical ambient conditions. Understanding PEDOT from a variety of fundamental and applied perspectives is important for how it can be enhanced, modified, functionalised, and/or processed for use in commercial products. This feature article highlights the contribution of the research team at the University of South Australia led by Professor Evans, and their collaborators, putting their work into the broader context of conducting polymer research and application. This review focuses on the vapour synthesis of PEDOT doped with the tosylate anion, the benefits of controlling its morphology/structure during synthesis, and its application as an active material interacting with secondary anions in sensors, energy devices and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migratory divides are contact zones between breeding populations with divergent migratory strategies during the nonbreeding season. These locations provide an opportunity to evaluate the role of seasonal migration in the maintenance of reproductive isolation, particularly the relationship between population structure and features associated with distinct migratory strategies. We combine light‐level geolocators, genomic sequencing, and stable isotopes to investigate the timing of migration and migratory routes of individuals breeding on either side of a migratory divide coinciding with genomic differentiation across a hybrid zone between barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) subspecies in China. Individuals west of the hybrid zone, with H. r. rustica ancestry, had comparatively enriched stable‐carbon and hydrogen isotope values and overwintered in eastern Africa, whereas birds east of the hybrid zone, with H. r. gutturalis ancestry, had depleted isotope values and migrated to southern India. The two subspecies took divergent migratory routes around the high‐altitude Karakoram Range and arrived on the breeding grounds over 3 weeks apart. These results indicate that assortative mating by timing of arrival and/or selection against hybrids with intermediate migratory traits may maintain reproductive isolation between the subspecies, and that inhospitable geographic features may have contributed to the diversification of Asian avifauna by influencing migratory patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein bait spray is a tool used widely in tephritid fruit fly pest (Diptera: Tephritidae) control and eradication programs. However, this technique might have a negative effect on non‐target, beneficial insects. Aphytis lingnanensis is a very successful parasitoid of the California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii, a worldwide pest of citrus. Though A. lingnanensis is widely used in augmentative release programs, the impact of protein bait‐insecticide mixtures on the parasitoid is not documented. In this study, we investigated the attraction of A. lingnanensis to Pinnacle® protein, a fruit fly protein bait commonly used in Australia. Following this, the contact toxicity of field weathered residues of protein bait mixed with the insecticides spinosad, fipronil, malathion and chlorpyrifos to A. lingnanensis were evaluated. Finally, the non‐lethal impact of these residues on the capacity of A. lingnanensis to parasitize its host was investigated. Food‐deprived parasitoids were not attracted to protein but were significantly attracted to honey. The lack of attraction of protein, however, increased when sugar was added to it. Relative to a control of only protein, protein bait‐insecticide mixtures applied on citrus leaves and weathered outdoors for 2 h, 3 days, 7 days and 12 days caused high mortality of A. lingnanensis. The residual toxicity of the four weathering periods, for all the protein bait‐insecticide mixtures, produced high mortality rates varying between 90% and 100%. In addition, the capacity of A. lingnanensis to parasitize its host after exposure to weathered residues containing an insecticide was severely affected. The results suggest that A. lingnanensis is highly susceptible to the insecticides evaluated here when used in fruit fly protein baits. Therefore, the use of these insecticides in protein bait sprays, as part of an area wide fruit fly management, should be carefully considered in areas where augmentative release and conservation of A. lingnanensis are also applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation concerns are increasing for numerous freshwater turtle species, including Pseudemys gorzugi, which has led to a call for more research. However, traditional sampling methodologies are often time consuming, labor intensive, and invasive, restricting the amount of data that can be collected. Biases of traditional sampling methods can further impair the quality of the data collected, and these shortfalls may discourage their use. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs, drones) for conducting wildlife surveys has recently demonstrated the potential to bridge gaps in data collection by offering a less labor intensive, minimally invasive, and more efficient process. Photographs and video can be obtained by camera attachments during a drone flight and analyzed to determine population counts, abundance, and other types of data. In this study we developed a detailed protocol to survey for large, freshwater turtle species in an arid, riverine landscape. This protocol was implemented with a DJI Matrice 600 Pro drone and a SONY ILCE α6000 digital camera to determine P. gorzugi and sympatric turtle species occurrence across 42 sites in southwestern Texas, USA. The use of a large drone and high-resolution camera resulted in high identification percentages, demonstrating the potential of drones to survey for large, freshwater turtle species. Numerous advantages to drone-based surveys were identified as well as some challenges, which were addressed with additional refinement of the protocol. Our data highlight the utility of drones for conducting freshwater turtle surveys and provide a guideline to those considering implementing drone-mounted high-resolution cameras as a survey tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although cyclooxygenase (COX) role in cancer angiogenesis has been studied, little is known about its role in brain angioplasticity. In the present study, we chronically infused mice with ketorolac, a non-specific COX inhibitor that does not cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), under normoxia or 50% isobaric hypoxia (10% O2 by volume). Ketorolac increased mortality rate under hypoxia in a dose-dependent manner. Using in vivo multiphoton microscopy, we demonstrated that chronic COX inhibition completely attenuated brain angiogenic response to hypoxia. Alterations in a number of angiogenic factors that were reported to be COX-dependent in other models were assayed at 24-hr and 10-day hypoxia. Intriguingly, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 was unaffected under COX inhibition, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type 2 (VEGFR2) and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) were significantly but slightly decreased. However, a number of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were significantly reduced upon COX inhibition. We conclude that additional, angiogenic factor-independent mechanism might contribute to COX role in brain angioplasticity, probably including mitogenic COX effect on endothelium. Our data indicate that COX activity is critical for systemic adaptation to chronic hypoxia, and BBB COX is essential for hypoxia-induced brain angioplasticity. These data also indicate a potential risk for using COX inhibitors under hypoxia conditions in clinics. Further studies are required to elucidate a complete mechanism for brain long-term angiogenesis regulation through COX activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although cyclooxygenase (COX) role in cancer angiogenesis has been studied, little is known about its role in brain angioplasticity. In the present study, we chronically infused mice with ketorolac, a non‐specific COX inhibitor that does not cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB), under normoxia or 50% isobaric hypoxia (10% O2 by volume). Ketorolac increased mortality rate under hypoxia in a dose‐dependent manner. Using in vivo multiphoton microscopy, we demonstrated that chronic COX inhibition completely attenuated brain angiogenic response to hypoxia. Alterations in a number of angiogenic factors that were reported to be COX‐dependent in other models were assayed at 24‐hr and 10‐day hypoxia. Intriguingly, hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 was unaffected under COX inhibition, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type 2 (VEGFR2) and C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) were significantly but slightly decreased. However, a number of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were significantly reduced upon COX inhibition. We conclude that additional, angiogenic factor‐independent mechanism might contribute to COX role in brain angioplasticity, probably including mitogenic COX effect on endothelium. Our data indicate that COX activity is critical for systemic adaptation to chronic hypoxia, and BBB COX is essential for hypoxia‐induced brain angioplasticity. These data also indicate a potential risk for using COX inhibitors under hypoxia conditions in clinics. Further studies are required to elucidate a complete mechanism for brain long‐term angiogenesis regulation through COX activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex chromosomes often bear distinct patterns of genetic variation due to unique patterns of inheritance and demography. The processes of mutation, recombination, genetic drift and selection also influence rates of evolution on sex chromosomes differently than autosomes. Measuring such differences provides information about how these processes shape genomic variation and their roles in the origin of species. To test hypotheses and predictions about patterns of autosomal and sex‐linked genomic diversity and differentiation, we measured population genetic statistics within and between populations and subspecies of the barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) and performed explicit comparisons between autosomal and Z‐linked genomic regions. We first tested for evidence of low Z‐linked genetic diversity and high Z‐linked population differentiation relative to autosomes, then for evidence that the Z chromosome bears greater ancestry information due to faster lineage sorting. Finally, we investigated geographical clines across hybrid zones for evidence that the Z chromosome is resistant to introgression due to selection against hybrids. We found evidence that the barn swallow mating system, demographic history and linked selection each contribute to low Z‐linked diversity and high Z‐linked differentiation. While incomplete lineage sorting is rampant across the genome, our results indicate faster sorting of ancestral polymorphism on the Z. Finally, hybrid zone analyses indicate barriers to introgression on the Z chromosome, suggesting that sex‐linked traits are important in reproductive isolation, especially in migratory divide regions. Our study highlights how selection, gene flow and demography shape sex‐linked genetic diversity and underlines the relevance of the Z chromosome in speciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tl2LiYCl6 (TLYC) is an analog to Cs2LiYCl6, which is currently an industry‐standard inorganic scintillator for radiation detection with good gamma–neutron discrimination. The presence of thallium (Z = 81) instead of cesium (Z = 55) in the elpasolite structure increases the density of the compound and its stopping power for gamma rays. This work investigates the impact of the Tl atom on the elpasolite structure. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction at room temperature and powder neutron diffraction with temperature control were used to characterize the crystal structure of TLYC between 296 and 725 K. The presence of Tl leads to a distortion of the cubic elpasolite structure at room temperature: a tetragonal P42 crystal structure (space group 77, a = 10.223, c = 10.338 Å) is identified for TLYC at 296 K. A structural transition to the cubic elpasolite Fm3m phase (space group 225) is observed at 464 K. The thermal expansion of the material for each crystal direction is well described by a linear relationship, except for the region between 400 and 464 K where the lattice parameters converge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the successful synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of a novel, water soluble anthanthrene-based derivative, 6,12-bis(TEG)anthanthrene 3. The presence of the two long ethylene glycol side chains gives this large, six-membered polycyclic aromatic compound a high aqueous solubility. It exhibits UV–vis absorption properties similar to those of anthanthrene itself, indicating that the side chains do not have a significant effect on the electronic structure of the central chromophore. The compound exhibits strong, polarity-sensitive fluorescence in aqueous solution in the blue–green region of the spectrum, with a fluorescence quantum yield of 0.13 and a polarity sensitivity factor (PSF) of 2.0. The utility of this new fluorescent molecule as a probe of supramolecular complexation was demonstrated by its inclusion into the molecular host hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin in aqueous solution. Strictly 1:1 inclusion was observed, with a moderately strong binding constant K of 650 M−1. This new fluorescence probe has significant potential applications in fluorescence-based studies of aqueous biochemical and supramolecular systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male-biased mutation rates occur in a diverse array of organisms. The ratio of male-to-female mutation rate may have major ramifications for evolution across the genome, and for sex-linked genes in particular. In ZW species, the Z chromosome is carried by males two-thirds of the time, leading to the prediction that male-biased mutation rates will have a disproportionate effect on the evolution of Z-linked genes relative to autosomes and the W chromosome. Colubroid snakes (including colubrids, elapids, and viperids) have ZW sex determination, yet male-biased mutation rates have not been well studied in this group. Here we analyze a population genomic dataset from rattlesnakes to quantify genetic variation within and genetic divergence between species. We use a new method for unbiased estimation of population genetic summary statistics to compare variation between the Z chromosome and autosomes and to calculate net nucleotide differentiation between species. We find evidence for a 2.03-fold greater mutation rate in male rattlesnakes relative to females, corresponding to an average μ Z/ μ A ratio of 1.1. Our results from snakes are quantitatively similar to birds, suggesting that male-biased mutation rates may be a common feature across vertebrate lineages with ZW sex determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many individuals with stroke still have functional difficulties with their affected hand after going through a rehabilitation program. A 3D printed upper limb exoskeleton was designed for an individual who had a stroke. Functional and neuromuscular outcomes were measured using his affected hand with and without a 3D printed passive exoskeleton. The goal of this study was to determine the functional and neuromuscular changes induced by the 3D printed exoskeleton in a participant with stroke. The functional ability of the exoskeleton was assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment and the Box and Block Test. Strength testing and muscle activation of the participant's forearms were measured during maximal voluntary contractions. Furthermore, EMG was measured during the Box and Block Test and satisfaction and usability of the 3D printed exoskeleton were assessed using standardized questionnaires. The exoskeleton improved both the participant's Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores and Box and Block test scores compared to not wearing the device. The subject had increased EMG activation in his extensor when wearing the exoskeleton. The inexpensive 3D printed exoskeleton was effective in assisting the participant with stroke during the functional assessments and has the potential to be used to help regain function of the hand in the home setting of an individual with stroke. A 3D printed passive hand exoskeleton may assist to accomplish rehabilitation outcomes by increasing function of the affected hand of patients with stroke. The use of this hand exoskeleton may be used to improve gross hand dexterity and assist with functional grasps during rehabilitation sessions with a lower patient's level of perceived exertion. The use of new antimicrobial 3D printing polymers can be effectively implemented to manufacture assistive devices to prevent skin infections during rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the New Distributional Records of Amphibians and Reptiles from the Western Gulf Coastal Plain of Texas, USA. Topics discussed include the Western Gulf Coastal Plain of Texas, USA stretches from Orange, Orange County southwest down through Brownsville; and this landscape is relatively flat, with few topographic features, and is primarily dominated by coastal marshes and interior grasslands, interspersed with oak-dominated savannas.

The title compound, thallium magnesium trichloride, has been identified as a scintillator with both moderate gamma-stopping power and moderate light yield. Knowledge of its crystal structure is needed for further development. This work determines the crystal structure of TlMgCl3 to be hexa­gonal P63/mmc (No. 194) and isostructural with RbMgCl3, contrary to previously reported data. This structure was obtained by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and was further confirmed by neutron diffraction measurements. Extending neutron diffraction measurements to high temperature, the data show that TlMgCl3 maintains this crystal structure from 290 K up through 725 K, approaching the melting point of 770 K. Anisotropic thermal expansion coefficients increase over this temperature range, from 31 to 38 × 10−6 K−1 along the a axis and from 19 to 34 × 10−6 K−1 along the c axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ignition temperature of Mg–(1–3) wt% Ca binary alloys has been tested at two different heating rates: a low heating rate (LHR) of 25 °C/min and a high heating rate (HHR) of 45 °C/min under a constant flow of extra dry air at a rate of 0.9 L/min. At both heating rates, the ignition temperature increased with Ca in the alloy. For LHR sample, the ignition temperature increased from 655 °C at 0 wt% Ca to 861 °C at 3 wt% Ca. For HHR samples, the increase in ignition temperature was lower, from 658 to 787 °C as Ca increased from 0 to 3 wt%. It was observed that Ca-rich interdendritic regions, when molten, resist oxidation more than when they are solid, an effect that can be attributed to the ΔG (Gibbs energy change) of CaO formation from the molten and solid phases. Using a LHR results in a smooth oxide scale and a higher ignition temperature, which is related to the formation of extensive molten pools, while a HHR yielded an irregular oxidation and lower ignition temperature due to the early oxidation of solid intermetallics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While shell diseases may be often encountered in captive aquatic turtles maintained in less than optimum conditions, cases of nonulcerating shell disease in wild populations are rare. We discovered lesions on the carapace of individual Kinosternon flavescens (Yellow Mud Turtle) adapted to a highly aquatic existence in the artificial ponds of a cattle ranch in the Chihuahuan Desert of west Texas. Because the carapacial lesions seemed to represent a continuum of a single process, we followed the gross changes in the lesions on turtles over a 13-yr period, testing the hypothesis that we were seeing a progressive shell disease. We confirmed our working hypothesis as we observed Arnoldiella chelonum, a common, filamentous alga, protruding from enlarged pores in newly formed shell and growing under translucent shell lamellae. As the disease advanced, our gross and histological studies revealed that algae were found between more of the shell lamellae, eventually culminating with sloughing of lamellae. Erosion of lamellae led to a localized but complete loss of portions of the scute and exposure of underlying bone. We provide data on the occurrence of this condition among the marked population and progression of the lesions to more-severe forms in individual turtles. Studies of specimens in research collections provided evidence of our observed disease process in K. flavescens across time and throughout the distribution of the species in Texas. We suggest that, by capitalizing on permanent artificial water sources, K. flavescens has serendipitously allowed A. chelonum to invade and damage the nonliving portion of the shell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although 90% of BRD relapses are reported to receive retreatment with a different class of antimicrobial, studies examining the impact of antimicrobial selection (i.e. bactericidal or bacteriostatic) on retreatment outcomes and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are deficient in the published literature. This survey was conducted to determine the association between antimicrobial class selection for treatment and retreatment of BRD relapses on antimicrobial susceptibility of Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, and Histophilus somni. Pathogens were isolated from samples submitted to the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory from January 2013 to December 2015. A total of 781 isolates with corresponding animal case histories, including treatment protocols, were included in the analysis. Original susceptibility testing of these isolates for ceftiofur, danofloxacin, enrofloxacin, florfenicol, oxytetracycline, spectinomycin, tilmicosin, and tulathromycin was performed using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Data were analyzed using a Bayesian approach to evaluate whether retreatment with antimicrobials of different mechanistic classes (bactericidal or bacteriostatic) increased the probability of resistant BRD pathogen isolation in calves. The posterior distribution we calculated suggests that an increased number of treatments is associated with a greater probability of isolates resistant to at least one antimicrobial. Furthermore, the frequency of resistant BRD bacterial isolates was greater with retreatment using antimicrobials of different mechanistic classes than retreatment with the same class. Specifically, treatment protocols using a bacteriostatic drug first followed by retreatment with a bactericidal drug were associated with a higher frequency of resistant BRD pathogen isolation. In particular, first treatment with tulathromycin (bacteriostatic) followed by ceftiofur (bactericidal) was associated with the highest probability of resistant M. haemolytica among all antimicrobial combinations. These observations suggest that consideration should be given to antimicrobial pharmacodynamics when selecting drugs for retreatment of BRD. However, prospective studies are needed to determine the clinical relevance to antimicrobial stewardship programs in livestock production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectives: To evaluate whether the presence of sexual problems in men (i.e., erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or delayed ejaculation) is associated with differential sexual behavior during masturbation and partnered sex. Methods: Cisgender participants (n = 2,807) completed an internet-based, cross-sectional questionnaire about sexual interest, behavior, and functioning. Results: Men with premature ejaculation were less likely to engage in foreplay-type behaviors, whereas men with erectile dysfunction or delayed ejaculation were more likely to include self-stimulation and/or other stimulation strategies during partnered sex. Conclusions: Different behavioral patterns among dysfunctional men represent potential strategies for modulating sexual arousal levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports the discovery of an established population of Eleutherodactylus planirostris (Greenhouse Frog) in Dean Porter Park, Brownsville, Texas, marking the second known population in south Texas and likely resulting from human-assisted movement.

The article documents the first county record of the Rio Grande Chirping Frog (Eleutherodactylus cystignathoides) in Gonzales County, Texas, with multiple individuals collected near Palmetto State Park, indicating the establishment of a new population in the area.

The study of recently diverged lineages whose geographical ranges come into contact can provide insight into the early stages of speciation and the potential roles of reproductive isolation in generating and maintaining species. Such insight can also be important for understanding the strategies and challenges for delimiting species within recently diverged species complexes. Here, we use mitochondrial and nuclear genetic data to study population structure, gene flow and demographic history across a geographically widespread rattlesnake clade, the western rattlesnake species complex (Crotalus cerberus , Crotalus viridis , Crotalus oreganus and relatives), which contains multiple lineages with ranges that overlap geographically or contact one another. We find evidence that the evolutionary history of this group does not conform to a bifurcating tree model and that pervasive gene flow has broadly influenced patterns of present-day genetic diversity. Our results suggest that lineage diversity has been shaped largely by drift and divergent selection in isolation, followed by secondary contact, in which reproductive isolating mechanisms appear weak and insufficient to prevent introgression, even between anciently diverged lineages. The complexity of divergence and secondary contact with gene flow among lineages also provides new context for why delimiting species within this complex has been difficult and contentious historically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coumadin (R/S-warfarin) metabolism plays a critical role in patient response to anticoagulant therapy. Several cytochrome P450s oxidize warfarin into R/S-6-, 7-, 8-, 10, and 4′-hydroxywarfarin that can undergo subsequent glucuronidation by UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs); however, current studies on recombinant UGTs cannot be adequately extrapolated to microsomal glucuronidation capacities for the liver. Herein, we estimated the capacity of the average human liver to glucuronidate hydroxywarfarin and identified UGTs responsible for those metabolic reactions through inhibitor phenotyping. There was no observable activity toward R/S-warfarin, R/S-10-hydroxywarfarin or R/S-4′-hydroxywarfarin. The observed metabolic efficiencies (Vmax/Km) toward R/S-6-, 7-, and especially 8-hydroxywarfarin indicated a high glucuronidation capacity to metabolize these compounds. UGTs demonstrated strong regioselectivity toward the hydroxywarfarins. UGT1A6 and UGT1A1 played a major role in R/S-6- and 7-hydroxywarfarin glucuronidation, respectively, whereas UGT1A9 accounted for almost all of the generation of the R/S-8-hydroxywarfarin glucuronide. In summary, these studies expanded insights to glucuronidation of hydroxywarfarins by pooled human liver microsomes, novel roles for UGT1A6 and 1A9, and the overall degree of regioselectivity for the UGT reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Mineral particles have long been observed in the ambient air and for >40 years, samples of these airborne particulate have been collected in attempt to identify and quantify the amount of asbestos particles in the air. For most of this time, regulated asbestos particles (in the shape of fibers) were the target for these analyses. However, since the turn of the century, more emphasis has been placed on finding and identifying elongate mineral particles (EMPs). For EMPs (particularly serpentine and amphibole minerals), these airborne particles have generally been associated with industrial activities and were reported as "asbestos". Recent monitoring around construction activities involving earth moving have reported concentrations of different mineral particles at sites of varying distance from the activity. The location of detected ambient elongate mineral particles (EMPs) is similar to the locations of soils that also contain EMPs. This close association indicates the necessity for proper mineral identification and valid morphological characterization to allow for source identification. Unfortunately, there continues to be problems with mineral identifications in many studies, regardless of the morphological habit of the particle. This paper addresses the issue of proper mineral identification in ambient air samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lower Rio Grande and Pecos River of the southwest United States have been heavily modified by human activities, profoundly impacting the integrity of their aquatic wildlife. In this context, we focused our study on the population genomics of the Rio Grande Cooter (Pseudemys gorzugi), a freshwater turtle of increasing conservation concern, residing in these two rivers and their tributaries. The genetic data revealed two distinct populations: one in the Pecos and Black Rivers of New Mexico and another in the Rio Grande and Devils River of Texas, with admixed individuals identified at the confluence of the Rio Grande and Pecos River. In addition to having a smaller geographic range, we found lower observed heterozygosity, reduced nucleotide diversity, and a smaller effective population size (N e) in New Mexico population. Our results depict a significant isolation-by-distance pattern across their distribution, with migration being notably infrequent at river confluences. These findings are pivotal for future conservation and restoration strategies, emphasizing the need to recognize the unique needs of each population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports an instance of arboreality in the Texas Horned Lizard or Phrynosoma cornutum and compares it to other published descriptions of arboreality in this species. Though other studies have reported P. cornutum utilizing arboreal habitats, this observation provides additional contexts for which this behavior may be reported. The behavior may be attributed to thermoregulation and sleeping exposed on the surface in areas where it is difficult to bury.

Abstract Cell-based metabolomics was used in a proof-of-concept fashion to investigate the biological effects of contaminants as they traveled from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) discharge to a drinking water treatment plant (DWTP) intake in a surface-water usage cycle. Zebrafish liver (ZFL) cells were exposed to water samples collected along a surface-water flowpath, where a WWTP was located ∼14.5 km upstream of a DWTP. The sampling sites included: 1) upstream of the WWTP, 2) the WWTP effluent discharging point, 3) a proximal location downstream of the WWTP outfall, 4) a distal location downstream of the WWTP outfall, 5) the drinking water intake, and 6) the treated drinking water collected prior to discharge to the distribution system. After a 48-h laboratory exposure, the hydrophilic and lipophilic metabolites in ZFL cell extracts were analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), respectively. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed distinct changes in metabolite profiles in response to WWTP effluent exposure. These effects on the hydrophilic metabolome gradually diminished downstream of the WWTP, becoming non-significant at the drinking water intake (comparable to upstream of the WWTP, p = 0.98). However, effects on the lipophilic metabolome increased significantly as the river flowed from the distal location downstream of the WWTP to the drinking water intake (p < 0.001), suggesting a source of bioactive compounds in this watershed other than the WWTP. ZFL cells exposed to treated drinking water did not exhibit significant changes in either the hydrophilic (p = 0.15) or lipophilic metabolome (p = 0.83) compared to the upstream site, suggesting that constituents in the WWTP effluent were efficiently removed by the drinking water treatment process. Impacts on ZFL cells from the WWTP effluent included disrupted energy metabolism, a global decrease in amino acids, and altered lipid metabolism pathways. Overall, this study demonstrated the utility of cell-based metabolomics as an effective tool for assessing the biological effects of complex pollutant mixtures, particularly when used as a complement to conventional chemical monitoring. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Biological impacts of contaminants were assessed for a de facto potable reuse case. • Impacts on ZFL hydrophilic metabolome gradually diminished downstream of WWTP. • Impacts on lipophilic metabolome were still significant at drinking water intake. • Treated drinking water did not show significant change compared to upstream of WWTP. • Major impacts included perturbed energy, amino acids and lipid metabolism pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assumption of strictly neutral evolution is fundamental to the multispecies coalescent model and permits the derivation of gene tree distributions and coalescent times conditioned on a given species tree. In this study, we conduct computer simulations to explore the effects of violating this assumption in the form of species-specific positive selection when estimating species trees, species delimitations, and coalescent parameters under the model. We simulated data sets under an array of evolutionary scenarios that differ in both speciation parameters (i.e. divergence times, strength of selection) and experimental design (i.e. number of loci sampled) and incorporated species-specific positive selection occurring within branches of a species tree to identify the effects of selection on multispecies coalescent inferences. Our results highlight particular evolutionary scenarios and parameter combinations in which inferences may be more, or less, susceptible to the effects of positive selection. In some extreme cases, selection can decrease error in species delimitation and increase error in species tree estimation, yet these inferences appear to be largely robust to the effects of positive selection under many conditions likely to be encountered in empirical data sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • EE2 exposure of adult O. melastigma revealed distinct sex differences in the EE2-mediated biological responses. • Females: immune enhancement and restored reproduction at low, persistent reproductive impairment at high EE2 concentrations. • Males: direct EE2 exposure impaired reproduction and immune competence dose-dependent with recovery upon EE2 abatement. • Downregulation of hepatic tlr3 and c3 (in female) and tlr3 , tlr5 and c3 (in male) may be indicative of impaired fish immune competence. • Adult EE2 exposure may affect F0 population survival through reduced immune competence and F1 output through impaired reproduction. Abstract Estrogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EEDCs) are present ubiquitously in sediments and aquatic ecosystems worldwide. The detrimental impact of EEDCs on the reproduction of wildlife is widely recognized. Increasing evidence shows the immunosuppressive effects of EEDCs in vertebrates. Yet, no studies have considered concomitantly EEDC-induced impacts on reproductive impairment and immune suppression in vivo , which are deemed essential for risk assessment and environmental monitoring. In this study, EE2 was used as a representative EEDC, for parallel evaluation of EEDC-induced immune suppression (immune marker gene expression, leukocyte numbers, host resistance assay, and immune competence index) and reproductive impairment (estrogen responsive gene expression, fecundity, fertilization success, hatching success, and reproductive competence index) in an established fish model (marine medaka Oryzias melastigma), considering sex-specific induction and adaptation and recovery responses under different EE2 exposure scenarios. The findings in marine medaka reveal distinct sex differences in the EE2-mediated biological responses. For female fish, low concentration of exogenous EE2 (33 ng/L) could induce hormesis (immune enhancement), enable adaptation (restored reproduction) and even boost fish resistance to bacterial challenge after abatement of EE2. However, a prolonged exposure to high levels of EE2 (113 ng/L) not only impaired F0 immune function, but also perturbed females recovering from reproductive impairment, resulting in a persistent impact on the F1 generation output. Thus, for female fish, the exposure concentration of EE2 is more critical than the dose of EE2 in determining the impacts of EE2 on immune function and reproduction. Conversely, male fish are far more sensitive than females to the presence of low levels of exogenous EE2 in water and the EE2-mediated biological impacts are clearly dose-dependent. It is also evident in male fish that direct contact of EE2 is essential to sustain impairments of immune competence and reproductive output as well as deregulation of immune function genes in vivo. The immunomodulatory pathways altered by EE2 were deciphered for male and female fish, separately. Downregulation of hepatic tlr3 and c3 (in female) and tlr3 , tlr5 and c3 (in male) may be indicative of impaired fish immune competence. Taken together, impaired immune competence in the EE2-exposed fish poses an immediate thread on the survival of F0 population. Impaired reproduction in the EE2-exposed fish can directly affect F1 output. Parallel evaluation of immune competence and reproduction are important considerations when assessing the risk of sublethal levels of EE2/EEDCs in aquatic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mojave rattlesnake ( Crotalus scutulatus ) inhabits deserts and arid grasslands of the western United States and Mexico. Despite considerable interest in its highly toxic venom and the recognition of two subspecies, no molecular studies have characterized range-wide genetic diversity and population structure or tested species limits within C. scutulatus . We used mitochondrial DNA and thousands of nuclear loci from double-digest restriction site associated DNA sequencing to infer population genetic structure throughout the range of C. scutulatus , and to evaluate divergence times and gene flow between populations. We find strong support for several divergent mitochondrial and nuclear clades of C. scutulatus , including splits coincident with two major phylogeographic barriers: the Continental Divide and the elevational increase associated with the Central Mexican Plateau. We apply Bayesian clustering, phylogenetic inference, and coalescent-based species delimitation to our nuclear genetic data to test hypotheses of population structure. We also performed demographic analyses to test hypotheses relating to population divergence and gene flow. Collectively, our results support the existence of four distinct lineages within C. scutulatus , and genetically defined populations do not correspond with currently recognized subspecies ranges. Finally, we use approximate Bayesian computation to test hypotheses of divergence among multiple rattlesnake species groups distributed across the Continental Divide, and find evidence for co-divergence at this boundary during the mid-Pleistocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wide continental margin of southern Louisiana borders Paleozoic terranes that accreted to Laurentia before Jurassic rifting formed the Gulf of Mexico. It is unclear whether continental rifting here involved widespread or localized crustal extension, or how seafloor spreading in the Gulf of Mexico started. To improve our understanding of this rifting episode, we gathered marine seismic-refraction data along a 396-km-long transect from the continental shelf 50 km off the western Louisiana coast to the central ocean basin as part of the Gulf of Mexico Basin Opening (GUMBO) program. Using travel-time tomography, we imaged the compressional seismic-velocity structure from the shallow sediments to the uppermost mantle. In our geophysical model, the crust tapers in thickness from ~11 km near the Louisiana coast to ~8 km in the deep water of the central Gulf of Mexico. The compressional seismic velocity increases from 5.7 to 5.9 km/s in the shallow basement to 6.8-7.2 km/s above the Moho. The thickness and average wave speed of crust beneath the modern Louisiana coast and continental shelf suggest the presence of uniformly stretched continental crust that was intruded by mantle-derived melts during extension before continental breakup. South of the Sigsbee Escarpment, the crust is thinner with a higher seismic velocity, which is more consistent with thick oceanic crust. A comparison of our seismic-velocity model with coincident seismic-reflection data indicates that the voluminous Louann Salt was likely deposited on rifted continental crust shortly before the onset of seafloor spreading in the Gulf of Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysregulation of the hepatic endocannabinoid (EC) system and high fat diet (HFD) are associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Liver cytosol contains high levels of two novel endocannabinoid binding proteins—liver fatty acid binding protein (FABP1) and sterol carrier protein-2 (SCP-2). While Fabp1 gene ablation significantly increases hepatic levels of arachidonic acid (ARA)-containing EC and sex-dependent response to pair-fed high fat diet (HFD), the presence of SCP-2 complicates interpretation. These issues were addressed by ablating Scp-2/Scp-x in Fabp1 null mice (TKO). In control-fed mice, TKO increased hepatic levels of arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA) in both sexes. HFD impacted hepatic EC levels by decreasing AEA in TKO females and decreasing 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) in WT of both sexes. Only TKO males on HFD had increased hepatic 2-AG levels. Hepatic ARA levels were decreased in control-fed TKO of both sexes. Changes in hepatic AEA/2-AG levels were not associated with altered amounts of hepatic proteins involved in AEA/2-AG synthesis or degradation. These findings suggested that ablation of the Scp-2/Scp-x gene in Fabp1 null mice exacerbated hepatic EC accumulation and antagonized the impact of HFD on hepatic EC levels—suggesting both proteins play important roles in regulating the hepatic EC system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Careful examination of the origins of double photopeaks in CsI:Tl provides a foundation for exploring the relationship between activator homogeneity and photopeak resolution in scintillators. In rare cases, certain CsI:Tl crystals exhibit a second photopeak in the pulse-height spectrum. A combination of optical mapping and ICP-MS measurements reveals the presence of two distinct regions with differing Tl concentrations in these crystals. The oscillator strength of the 299 nm absorption A-band of Tl in CsI was measured to be 0.0526 ± 0.0008; this parameter can be used to quantify activator concentration from the optical absorption. Using published measurements of luminescence intensity versus Tl concentration, the distributions of Tl measured from optical absorption maps of the samples were reconstructed into photopeaks in good agreement with experiment. The distribution of Tl concentrations in these particular crystals allowed examining luminescence pulse shape as a function of Tl concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Genome-wide association studies have identified multiple genetic variants associated with vertical cup-to-disc ratio (VCDR). Genetic risk scores (GRS) examine the aggregate genetic effect of individual variants on a trait by combining these separate genetic variants into a single measure. The purpose of this study was to construct GRS for VCDR and to determine whether the GRS are associated with VCDR and whether the GRS increase the discriminatory ability for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in a Latino population. Design Population-based genetic association study. Participants A total of 4018 Latino participants recruited from Los Angeles. Methods Weighted and unweighted GRS were constructed using 68 previously reported VCDR single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), as well as SNPs from our own genome-wide association data. Linear and logistic regression analyses examined the associations of GRS with VCDR and POAG, respectively. To evaluate the discriminatory ability of the GRS for POAG, we conducted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. Main Outcome Measures The relationship between GRS and VCDR in Latinos. Results The GRS were associated significantly with VCDR ( P < 0.0001), after adjusting for age, gender, central corneal thickness, intraocular pressure, and education. The weighted GRS explained an additional 2.74% of the variation in VCDR. Adding the weighted GRS derived from previously reported SNPs resulted in a moderate improvement in the discriminatory ability for POAG during ROC analyses, yielding an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.735 (95% CI, 0.701–0.768). When our own SNPs were used, the AUC increased significantly to 0.809 (95% CI, 0.781–0.837; P < 0.0001). We obtained similar results for the unweighted GRS. Conclusions To our knowledge, we identified a novel association between GRS and VCDR and its improvement in the discriminatory ability of POAG in a Latino population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses new county records of amphibians and reptiles from South Dakota, USA, reported over the past two years, which have significantly enhanced the understanding of species distribution in the state. Topics include the increase of over 150 new distributional records that fill gaps in species range knowledge, the inclusion of verifiable voucher specimens that support future research, and the limitations of existing resources that lead to mischaracterization of species ranges.

BaBrCl:Eu is a promising scintillator material; however, the crystal growth yield must be improved for it to become commercially viable. This study measures strain accumulations in the crystal lattice which can contribute to cracking during post‐growth cooling. Neutron diffraction is used to measure the crystal structure of undoped and 5 mol% europium‐doped BaBrCl from 303 to 1073 K, approaching the melting point. Rietveld analysis of these data provides the temperature dependence of the thermal and chemical strain in BaBrCl. In particular, anisotropic thermal expansion is measured, with expansion along the b axis nearly double the expansion along the a and c axes. Additionally, the chemical strain from the incorporation of europium atoms peaks around 673 K, explaining cracking frequently observed in that temperature range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: High‐resolution mass spectrometry is advantageous for monitoring physiological impacts and contaminant biotransformation products in fish exposed to complex wastewater effluent. We evaluated this technique using skin mucus from male and female fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) exposed to control water or treated wastewater effluent at 5, 20, and 100% levels for 21 d, using an on‐site, flow‐through system providing real‐time exposure. Both sex‐specific and non‐sex–specific responses were observed in the mucus metabolome, the latter suggesting the induction of general compensatory pathways for xenobiotic exposures. Altogether, 85 statistically significant treatment‐dependent metabolite changes were observed out of the 310 total endogenous metabolites that were detected (156 of the 310 were annotated). Partial least squares‐regression models revealed strong covariances between the mucus metabolomes and up‐regulated hepatic messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) transcripts reported previously for these same fish. These regression models suggest that mucus metabolomic changes reflected, in part, processes by which the fish biotransformed xenobiotics in the effluent. In keeping with this observation, we detected a phase II transformation product of bisphenol A in the skin mucus of male fish. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the utility of mucus as a minimally invasive matrix for simultaneously assessing exposures and effects of environmentally relevant mixtures of contaminants. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:788–796. Published 2017 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the occurrence of 50 species of amphibians and reptiles recently collected on C. E. Miller Ranch and the Sierra Vieja in the Chihuahuan Desert of Texas, USA and describe their perceived distribution and abundance across various habitat associations of the region. Our recent surveys follow intense, historic sampling of amphibians and reptiles from this region in 1948. Of the 50 species detected in recent surveys, six were not collected in 1948 and an additional three species documented in 1948 have yet to be detected in a 14-year period of recent surveys. Combining data from both historic and recent surveys, a total of 53 species of amphibians and reptiles are known from the ranch (11 amphibians, 42 reptiles). Land stewardship and conservation practices have likely contributed to the persistence of the majority of these species through time. Additionally, we discuss the status of amphibians and reptiles not collected during recent surveys and comment on potential species that have not yet been detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization has the potential to induce major changes in freshwater systems. Expected increases in human populations will likely amplify these changes and lead to the overall degradation of habitat quality within these systems. Such habitat alterations may function as stressors that can affect glucocorticoid stress hormones in freshwater vertebrates. Examining changes in physiological stress may provide early warning indicators of environmental threats and provide insights into the sub-lethal effects of habitat degradation. The threatened, obligate aquatic, Jollyville Plateau salamander ( Eurycea tonkawae ) is found in urbanized and rural catchments within central Texas and has experienced population declines in heavily urbanized areas. We tested the prediction that salamanders from urbanized sites would have different levels of baseline corticosterone (CORT) and muted or no stress responsiveness (to an external stressor, agitation) compared to salamanders from rural sites. We collected water-borne hormones to measure baseline CORT release rates ( n = 3 years) and stress responsiveness ( n = 2 years) in salamanders inhabiting urbanized and rural sites. We also measured “background” CORT from stream water alone at each visit. For the first two years we found that baseline CORT was higher in urbanized sites but not in the third year. Across years and populations, salamanders showed stress responsiveness, suggesting that, even if physiological stress is higher in urbanized areas, it has not resulted in the impairment of the hypothalamic–pituitary–interrenal axis. Background CORT was higher in urban than in rural streams and was positively correlated with mean baseline CORT of salamanders across populations and years. Our results contribute to the goal of finding early warning indicators of environmental threats by demonstrating a relationship between urbanization and the physiological status of E. tonkawae , using a rapid, non-invasive measure of stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Romidepsin is a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor that is approved for the treatment of cutaneous and peripheral T-cell lymphoma in patients who have had at least one prior therapy. Romidepsin is generally well tolerated, though it comes with a risk of cardiac toxicities. Objective We report a case of electrocardiogram changes in a 64-year-old male with enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma, type 2, treated with salvage romidepsin therapy who relapsed after non-myeloablative allogeneic sibling peripheral blood stem cell transplant. Discussion Although histone deacetylase inhibitors have been investigated for many years, they have only recently been translated to clinical use as a therapy for malignancies. Furthermore, given their approval for a rare disease, clinicians often have limited experience with the dosing and side effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors. Conclusion This case report and literature review investigates the cardiac side effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors and illustrates the importance of cardiac monitoring prior to and during treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Kansas, like other parts of the central U.S., has experienced a recent increase in seismicity. Correlation of these events with brine disposal operations suggests pore fluid pressure increases are reactivating preexisting faults, but rigorous evaluation at injection sites is lacking. Here we determine the suitability of CO2 injection into the Cambrian‐Ordovician Arbuckle Group for long‐term storage and into a Mississippian reservoir for enhanced oil recovery in Wellington Field, Sumner County, Kansas. To determine the potential for injection‐induced earthquakes, we map subsurface faults and estimate in situ stresses, perform slip and dilation tendency analyses to identify well‐oriented faults relative to the estimated stress field, and determine the pressure changes required to induce slip at reservoir and basement depths. Three‐dimensional seismic reflection data reveal 12 near‐vertical faults, mostly striking NNE, consistent with nodal planes from moment tensor solutions from recent earthquakes in the region. Most of the faults cut both reservoirs and several clearly penetrate the Precambrian basement. Drilling‐induced fractures (N = 40) identified from image logs and inversion of earthquake moment tensor solutions (N = 65) indicate that the maximum horizontal stress is approximately EW. Slip tendency analysis indicates that faults striking <020° are stable under current reservoir conditions, whereas faults striking 020°–049° may be prone to reactivation with increasing pore fluid pressure. Although the proposed injection volume (40,000 t) is unlikely to reactive faults at reservoir depths, high‐rate injection operations could reach pressures beyond the critical threshold for slip within the basement, as demonstrated by the large number of injection‐induced earthquakes west of the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]