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The El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) teleconnection to Europe is projected to strengthen under global warming in most climate model simulations. However, given the current difference between recent observations and historical model simulations of tropical Pacific sea surface temperature trends, with models simulating an El Niño‐like warming in recent decades which is in disagreement with observations, it is important to understand the relative contributions of changes to the teleconnection forcing and background state to the overall teleconnection change. Using idealized climate model experiments, we show that both the eastward shift of El Niño precipitation and background state changes make contributions to the overall teleconnection change. These results suggest that the ENSO–Europe teleconnection can be expected to strengthen under global warming, even if ENSO precipitation anomalies do not shift eastwards as currently projected. However, the magnitude of the strengthening may depend on how much of an eastward shift does occur. Plain Language Summary: El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) can influence the weather and climate in Europe, and this connection is expected to become stronger under global warming according to most climate models. However, there is a difference between recent observations of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean and what climate models simulate. These differences could have important implications for future projections of ENSO's impact on Europe. To understand how likely the projected future strengthening of this link is, we looked at how two factors contribute to this connection change: (a) changes in rainfall associated with El Niño in the tropical Pacific and (b) overall changes in global climate elsewhere. Using a simplified climate model, we found that both these factors play a role in making the connection between El Niño and Europe stronger. This suggests that even if the specific patterns of El Niño rainfall don't change as projected, the link between El Niño and Europe will still get stronger due to global warming. However, how much stronger it gets might depend on the actual changes in El Niño rainfall, so it's important to figure out why there's a difference between observations and the model projections of Pacific Ocean temperature trends. Key Points: The El Niño–Southern Oscillation teleconnection to Europe is projected to strengthen under global warmingThis change is driven by an eastward shift of El Niño precipitation anomalies in the tropical Pacific and background state changes globallyBackground state changes have a greater impact on European circulation than precipitation changes, particularly over central‐eastern Europe [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precipitation projections in transient climate change scenarios have been extensively studied over multiple climate model generations. Although these simulations have also been used to make projections at specific Global Warming Levels (GWLs), dedicated simulations are more appropriate to study changes in a stabilizing climate. Here, we analyze precipitation projections in six multi‐century experiments with fixed atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, conducted with the UK Earth System Model and which span a range of GWLs between 1.5 and 5°C of warming. Regions are identified where the sign of precipitation trends in high‐emission transient projections is reversed in the stabilization experiments. For example, stabilization reverses a summertime precipitation decline across Europe. This precipitation recovery occurs concurrently with changes in the pattern of Atlantic sea surface temperature trends due to a slow recovery of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in the stabilization experiments, along with changes in humidity and atmospheric circulation. Plain Language Summary: Climate model projections consistently predict that summer precipitation over Europe is expected to decline in the future as global temperatures rise under continued global warming. In our study, we use new climate model simulations that simulate a world where atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases are no longer increasing and the rise in global temperatures has slowed down. We show that the summer rainfall decline across Europe can, to some extent, be reversed if global temperatures were to stabilize. This has important implications for adaptation and planning decisions, particularly in so‐called climate change "hot‐spots" such as the Mediterranean. Key Points: Climate stabilization experiments show significant differences in projected precipitation compared to high‐emission transient scenariosNorthern European and Mediterranean projected summer drying is partially reversedEuropean summer precipitation changes are consistent with the atmospheric response to Atlantic SST changes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How people pay is critically important to consumers and businesses alike. Many consumers are choosing to pay for goods and services from an increasing number of options. Tech‐savvy urbanites buy coffee by tapping their phone on a reader. Parents returning from a night out use peer‐to‐peer payment apps, such as Venmo, to pay the sitter. The recent explosion of financial innovations promises faster, more efficient, and cheaper transactions. These increasing digital payment options coincide with decreased number and volume of cash transactions. However, vulnerable populations face more constrained payment choices and often rely exclusively on cash. Without experience, devices, or acceptable credit histories, vulnerable populations may have little access to digital transactions. The advantages of falling digital costs and other benefits thus accrue to the digitally connected. At the same time, those who must transact in coins and paper money are likely to find their relative costs increasing. This paper highlights payment trends and the potential impact on vulnerable populations in the United States as we move toward a cashless society. This paper should stimulate discussions of public policy initiatives to mitigate digital payment issues for vulnerable people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies investigate river floods by analyzing annual maximum series that record the largest flow of each year, including many within‐bank events inconsequential for human communities. Fewer focus on larger floods, especially at the continental scale. Using 473 streamgages across the conterminous United States with near‐natural flow from 1966 to 2015, we characterized the seasonality, occurrence, and climatic associations of the 10 largest and 2 largest floods at each site. These are often overbank events that have ecosystem functions and pose risks to humans. We grouped sites into 14 clusters corresponding to climatic and physiographic regions and characterized their flood seasonality at a monthly resolution using a probabilistic method. We then evaluated annual occurrence regionally and nationally, and seasonal occurrence regionally, by complementing a traditional approach to trend analyses with a novel method based on expected occurrence. Relationships between flood occurrence and climate indices were also investigated. Large floods have strong seasonality in some regions, but in areas with numerous flood‐generating mechanisms, seasonality is more complex. There is little evidence nationally that large riverine floods are more or less frequent than expected in recent years and only two regions show significant trends in annual counts; few show seasonal trends. We found some regional relationships between flood counts and climate indices, annually and seasonally; nationally the Pacific North American pattern is related to annual counts of the 2 largest floods. Large‐flood occurrence was generally stable across the United States in the last five decades; this may or may not continue with projected warming. Plain Language Summary: Flood studies usually focus on records of the largest streamflow of each year because they are widely available and provide relatively large samples. However, the largest flow of each year is not necessarily big enough to inundate the floodplain and pose risks to human communities. Our study investigated only the largest observed floods in the record, ones that occur roughly every five to fifty years. We used a set of 473 gages that measure near‐natural river flow across the United States. We studied many aspects of these consequential events at regional and national scales for the period 1966–2015, including seasonality, changes over time, and associations with known climate patterns. We found that the seasonality of large floods is strong in some regions, but weak or complex in others where floods have a variety of causes. There is little evidence that large floods have become more or less frequent with time, but we found some regional and national associations between large‐flood occurrence and known climate patterns such as the Pacific North American pattern. Large‐flood occurrence has generally been stable in the last five decades, but continued re‐evaluation of the historical record is important as new data are collected. Key Points: First broad characterization of large‐flood occurrence in the conterminous United States in the modern hydroclimate, including seasonalityBoth traditional and novel methods to assess temporal distribution of large floodsFew significant temporal trends, but significant relations to climate indices for some regions and seasons [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The neurofibromatoses [NF 1, NF 2 and schwannomatosis] are a group of genetic disorders that lead to the development of nervous system tumours and have diverse dermatologic, neurologic, ophthalmic, skeletal and vascular effects. The most common is NF 1 (Neurofibromatosis 1) also known as von Recklinghausen's disease, which is one of the most common human genetic diseases. Oral manifestations of NF 1 are reported in 72% of cases and in one of our cases precipitated attendance at a general dental practitioner (GDP), subsequent diagnosis and genetic screening for family members. This disease may go undiagnosed due to its variable expressivity of symptoms. The pivotal importance of a GDP in the discovery and early referral to an oral or oral and maxillofacial surgeon for further investigation and diagnosis of this condition is highlighted. Knowledge of the most common features of neurofibromatosis can facilitate the speedy referral and subsequent diagnosis of generalized neurofibromatosis, local surgical management of benign neoplasms and long term management of its other clinical features. Dentists should be aware of the classic symptoms of this condition and of their role in long‐term care in view of the risk of local recurrence and malignant transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rate at which endogenous DNA from differently prepared (butchered, boiled and baked) compact pig bones degrades in five different Danish terrestrial and marine environments over 12 months was investigated. Although > 70% of the estimated endogenous mtDNA is lost after just four weeks of exposure, no cytosine deamination of DNA was recognised. A correlation between the presence of oxygen and the amount of preserved DNA was observed. The results provide valuable information on the interaction between the endogenous DNA and the depositional environment in the early stages of bone diagenesis, which can be a support in the interpretation of the initial diagenetic pathways of archaeological bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Recent data associate eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) with IgG4 rather than IgE, but its significance and function have not been determined. Our aims were to measure esophageal IgG4 levels and to determine functional correlations as assessed by histologic and transcriptome analyses. Methods: This case‐control study included pediatric subjects with EoE (≥15 eosinophils/HPF) and non‐EoE controls. Protein lysates were analyzed for IgA, IgM, and IgG1‐IgG4 using the Luminex 100 system; IgE was quantified by ELISA. Esophageal biopsies were scored using the EoE histology scoring system. Transcripts were probed by the EoE diagnostic panel, designed to examine the expression of 96 esophageal transcripts. Results: Esophageal IgG subclasses, IgA, and IgM, but not IgE, were increased in subjects with EoE relative to controls. The greatest change between groups was seen in IgG4 (4.2 mg/g protein [interquartile range: 1.0‐13.1 mg/g protein] vs 0.2 mg/g protein [0.1‐0.9]; P < .0001). Tissue IgG4 levels correlated with esophageal eosinophil counts (P = .0006); histologic grade (P = .0011) and stage (P = .0112) scores; and IL4, IL10, IL13, but not TGFB1, expression and had strong associations with a subset of the EoE transcriptome. Esophageal IgG4 transcript expression was increased and correlated with IgG4 protein levels and IL10 expression. Conclusion: These findings extend prior studies on IgG4 in adult EoE to the pediatric population and provide deeper understanding of the potential significance and regulation of IgG4, demonstrating that IgG4 is a relevant feature of the disease; is closely related to esophageal eosinophil levels, type 2 immunity and T regulatory cytokines; and is likely produced locally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Dam removal can restore fish passage, natural flow regimes, sediment transport in streams, dispersal of organic matter, and drift of aquatic insects. However, dam removal also impacts the riparian vegetation, with both immediate and delayed responses. In this study, we measure vegetation change at the Merrimack Village Dam site on the Souhegan River in Merrimack, NH, USA. The August 2008 removal caused a ~3‐m drop in water level and rapid erosion of impounded sediment, with ~50% removed in the first 3 months. Terrace, floodplain, and wetland communities were surveyed in summer 2007, 2009, 2014, and 2015. Temporal change was quantified using Analysis of Similarity on the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity matrix. Only herbaceous vegetation closest to the river channel and in the off‐channel wetland changed significantly. The herbaceous plots directly adjacent to the impoundment eroded to bare sand in 2009, but by 2014, the original riparian fringe community had re‐established in the newly developed floodplain. Between 2007 and 2014, the off‐channel wetland area changed from aquatic species to a stable terrestrial community that persisted without significant change in 2015. The vegetation response was greatest in areas with the largest geomorphic and hydrologic change. These included the channel margin where erosion and bank slumping created an unstable scarp. The mid‐channel island and off‐channel wetland were strongly affected by the lowered water table. However, large unvegetated areas never persisted nor did the areal coverage of invasive species expand, which are two frequent concerns of dam removal stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The validity of the eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) histologic scoring system (EoEHSS) has been demonstrated, but only preliminary reliability data exist. Aim: Formally assess the reliability of the EoEHSS and additional histologic features. Methods: Four expert gastrointestinal pathologists independently reviewed slides from adult patients with EoE (N = 45) twice, in random order, using standardised training materials and scoring conventions for the EoEHSS and additional histologic features agreed upon during a modified Delphi process. Intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability for scoring the EoEHSS, a visual analogue scale (VAS) of overall histopathologic disease severity, and additional histologic features were assessed using intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results: Almost perfect intra‐rater reliability was observed for the composite EoEHSS scores and the VAS. Inter‐rater reliability was also almost perfect for the composite EoEHSS scores and substantial for the VAS. Of the EoEHSS items, eosinophilic inflammation was associated with the highest ICC estimates and consistent with almost perfect intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability. With the exception of dyskeratotic epithelial cells and surface epithelial alteration, ICC estimates for the remaining EoEHSS items were above the benchmarks for substantial intra‐rater, and moderate inter‐rater reliability. Estimation of peak eosinophil count and number of lamina propria eosinophils were associated with the highest ICC estimates among the exploratory items. Conclusion: The composite EoEHSS and most component items are associated with substantial reliability when assessed by central pathologists. Future studies should assess responsiveness of the score to change after a therapeutic intervention to facilitate its use in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying the mechanisms driving the distribution and diversity of parasitic organisms and characterizing the structure of parasite assemblages are critical to understanding host–parasite evolution, community dynamics, and disease transmission risk. Haemosporidian parasites of the genera Plasmodium and Haemoproteus are a diverse and cosmopolitan group of bird pathogens. Despite their global distribution, the ecological and historical factors shaping the diversity and distribution of these protozoan parasites across avian communities and geographic regions remain unclear. Here we used a region of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene to characterize the diversity, biogeographical patterns, and phylogenetic relationships of Plasmodium and Haemoproteus infecting Amazonian birds. Specifically, we asked whether, and how, host community similarity and geography (latitude and area of endemism) structure parasite assemblages across 15 avian communities in the Amazon Basin. We identified 265 lineages of haemosporidians recovered from 2661 sampled birds from 330 species. Infection prevalence varied widely among host species, avian communities, areas of endemism, and latitude. Composition analysis demonstrated that both malarial parasites and host communities differed across areas of endemism and as a function of latitude. Thus, areas with similar avian community composition were similar in their parasite communities. Our analyses, within a regional biogeographic context, imply that host switching is the main event promoting diversification in malarial parasites. Although dispersal of haemosporidian parasites was constrained across six areas of endemism, these pathogens are not dispersal‐limited among communities within the same area of endemism. Our findings indicate that the distribution of malarial parasites in Amazonian birds is largely dependent on local ecological conditions and host evolutionary relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dam removal is widely used as an approach for river restoration in the United States. The increase in dam removals-particularly large dams-and associated dam-removal studies over the last few decades motivated a working group at the USGS John Wesley Powell Center for Analysis and Synthesis to review and synthesize available studies of dam removals and their findings. Based on dam removals thus far, some general conclusions have emerged: (1) physical responses are typically fast, with the rate of sediment erosion largely dependent on sediment characteristics and dam-removal strategy; (2) ecological responses to dam removal differ among the affected upstream, downstream, and reservoir reaches; (3) dam removal tends to quickly reestablish connectivity, restoring the movement of material and organisms between upstream and downstream river reaches; (4) geographic context, river history, and land use significantly influence river restoration trajectories and recovery potential because they control broader physical and ecological processes and conditions; and (5) quantitative modeling capability is improving, particularly for physical and broad-scale ecological effects, and gives managers information needed to understand and predict long-term effects of dam removal on riverine ecosystems. Although these studies collectively enhance our understanding of how riverine ecosystems respond to dam removal, knowledge gaps remain because most studies have been short (< 5 years) and do not adequately represent the diversity of dam types, watershed conditions, and dam-removal methods in the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphologies of individual cluster galaxies are an important path to studying galaxy formation and evolution. Here, we present new wide-field images of the low-surface-brightness Virgo Cluster dwarf galaxy VCC 1661. The extant literature lists a broad range of radii for this object, covering a factor of more than four, depending on the filters used and the details of the analyses. While some studies find a radius typical of other Virgo dwarfs and note the normality of this object, any larger spatial extent, taken at face value, would render this galaxy the largest dwarf in the Virgo Cluster samples. Confirmation of a large extent of dwarf galaxies has often led to the discovery of tidal tails and would then, also in VCC 1661, indicate a severe state of tidal disruption. Given the importance of galactic sizes for assessing tidal interactions of the satellites with their hosts, we thus combine our surface brightness profile with data from the literature to investigate further the nature of this galaxy. However, our new characteristic radius for VCC 1661 of re = 24.1″ ± 7.7″ and the previously noted smooth appearance of its isophotes are fully consistent with the remainder of the Advanced Camera for Surveys Virgo Cluster Survey dwarf galaxy population without any need to invoke tidal perturbations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sample of the Vinland Map remaining from the radiocarbon dating was analysed with the purpose of identifying the post-1950 contaminant and establishing other evidence on the material composition, identity and condition. The analyses revealed that the parchment originates from a bovid and contains hair remnants. The fibre structure was in poor condition, with fragmented collagen fibres and a low hydrothermal stability. Greenish and reddish particles were observed on the parchment. The greenish particles were identified as basic copper(II) chloride, most probably atacamite, and the reddish particles as rust; that is, various iron(III) oxides. The extracted modern contaminant was identified as being naturally produced glycerol monostearate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated spatial and temporal patterns in distribution, population structure and diet of Bolin's lanternfish Protomyctophum bolini, Tenison's lanternfish Protomyctophum tenisoni and gaptooth lanternfish Protomyctophum choriodon in the Scotia Sea using data collected by midwater trawl during spring, summer and autumn. Protomyctophum bolini was the most abundant species of the genus encountered throughout the Scotia Sea with the greatest concentrations occurring around the Antarctic Polar Front ( APF). This species had a life cycle of 2+ years, but spatial differences in population structure were apparent as the I-group was absent from all regions south of the APF, suggesting that the species does not recruit in the Scotia Sea. Protomyctophum tenisoni occurred mostly in waters characteristic of the APF and was absent from the southern Scotia Sea. It had a limited size range, but there was clear size-related sexual dimorphism with males significantly larger than females. The species had a life cycle of c. 2 years, but the I-group ( c. 1 year old, 1 November to 31 October the next year) occurred only in regions close to the APF suggesting that recruitment is restricted to these waters. A seasonal southward migration for P. choriodon is likely as the species occurred mostly to the south-west of South Georgia in summer, but extended to the sea-ice sectors in autumn. Protomyctophum choriodon had a life cycle of 4+ years in the Scotia Sea and the population was dominated by age classes >3 years old. Larval stages were absent during the surveys for all species. Diurnal variations in vertical distribution were apparent for all three species. Interspecific variations in diet were evident, but all species were primarily copepod feeders, with Metridia spp., Rhincalanus gigas and Calanus simillimus generally dominating their diet. Small euphausiids, principally Thysanoessa spp., were also an important component of their diets, particularly for P. choriodon which had the largest body size. The spatial and temporal variations in diet for both P. bolini and P. tenisoni were broadly consistent with underlying abundance patterns within the mesozooplankton community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES To describe the development of a facial expression tool differentiating pain-free cats from those in acute pain. METHODS Observers shown facial images from painful and pain-free cats were asked to identify if they were in pain or not. From facial images, anatomical landmarks were identified and distances between these were mapped. Selected distances underwent statistical analysis to identify features discriminating pain-free and painful cats. Additionally, thumbnail photographs were reviewed by two experts to identify discriminating facial features between the groups. RESULTS Observers (n = 68) had difficulty in identifying pain-free from painful cats, with only 13% of observers being able to discriminate more than 80% of painful cats. Analysis of 78 facial landmarks and 80 distances identified six significant factors differentiating pain-free and painful faces including ear position and areas around the mouth/muzzle. Standardised mouth and ear distances when combined showed excellent discrimination properties, correctly differentiating pain-free and painful cats in 98% of cases. Expert review supported these findings and a cartoon-type picture scale was developed from thumbnail images. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Initial investigation into facial features of painful and pain-free cats suggests potentially good discrimination properties of facial images. Further testing is required for development of a clinical tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE Archaeological keratin samples are increasingly the subject of palaeodietary, provenancing and dating studies. Keratin samples from wet archaeological contexts are microbiologically and chemically degraded, causing differential diagenesis of protein structures in hair fibres. The effects of these processes on the analytical parameters of interest are currently unknown. METHODS This study examined the impact of degradation of wool fibres on isotopic (δ13C, δ15N, un-exchangeable δ2H and δ18O values) composition. It compared two models of archaeological protein degradation in wet burial environments: (1) short term (up to 8 years) experimental burial in three contrasting soil environments; and (2) laboratory wet conditions, in which elevated temperature (80 °C, 110 °C, and 140 °C) and pressure simulated longer exposure. Elemental and amino acid (AA) composition were also measured. RESULTS In experimentally soil-buried samples, AA, elemental and isotopic composition changes were small, despite extensive macroscopic alteration. Isothermally heated samples showed preferential loss of hydrophilic AAs (Asx, Glx, Ser, Gly) from wool residues, with depletion in 2H and 18O at higher temperatures (up to −73‰ change in δ2H and −2.6‰ in δ18O values). The δ13C and δ15N values showed little change except in densely pigmented samples at low temperatures only. Samples dyed with madder/alum were better preserved than undyed samples. CONCLUSIONS Diagenesis in experimentally soil-buried wool textiles was consistent with microbiological, non-protein-selective activity, in contrast to highly AA-selective hydrolytic behaviour under laboratory wet conditions. Changes in δ2H and δ18O values were correlated with degree of AA change, but the δ13C and δ15N values were not. The results contribute to a baseline for interpreting analytical data from archaeological hair samples preserved by burial in wet environments. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Optimal therapy for men relapsing after initial chemotherapy for germ cell tumours ( GCT) is poorly defined. Both conventional dose salvage regimens and high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation ( HDCT-ASCT) have been utilised. Aims To examine patients who received HDCT-ASCT for relapsed GCT within a single Australian centre. Methods Records between 2000 and 2012 were analysed for baseline characteristics, treatment-related toxicity and survival. Prognosis at the time of HDCT-ASCT was classified according to the International Prognostic Factors Study Group ( IPFSG). Results Seventeen patients received HDCT-ASCT, median age 34 (21-46), with 41% having primary refractory disease and 53% with high/very high risk disease by IPFSG. The most common regimen utilised was paclitaxel/ifosfamide followed by high-dose carboplatin/etoposide ( TI-CE; n = 12). The median duration of grade 4 ( G4) neutropenia was 11 days (range 9-17) with febrile neutropenia in 90% resulting in four intensive care unit admissions (8%). Median duration of G4 thrombocytopenia was 10 days (range 8-19) requiring a median of two pooled platelets bags (range 0-33) per episode. Transplant-related mortality occurred in one patient (veno-occlusive disease). Twenty-seven per cent of HDCT-ASCT cycles were associated with grade 3 mucositis (median total parenteral nutrition days = 5 (0-23)). Two-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 59% and 71%. Patients who received HDCT-ASCT as second or subsequent relapse fared worse than those treated with HDCT-ASCT at first relapse (hazard ratio 0.23 (95% confidence interval: 0.04, 1.37; P-value 0.09). Three-year OS for those who received TI-CE at first relapse was 90%. Conclusions HDCT-ASCT for relapsed GCT is effective with acceptable toxicity. There was encouraging PFS/OS, particularly in a poor-prognosis cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread use of chlorine and the reluctance of drinking water providers to alter their disinfection systems have sparked increased investigation into posttreatment removal of trihalomethanes (THMs). One posttreatment method is spray aeration, in which water is sprayed through showerheads in storage tanks. In this research the influence of various parameters on THM removals was evaluated using a mass balance–based model and sensitivity analysis. THM formation and the configuration (droplet size, travel distance, and spray pattern) and magnitude (percent recycle) of the sprayed water flow were determined to be the most influential parameters, whereas temperature, spray angle for uniform cone flow distribution, and THM species were the least influential factors. Practitioners should find these results helpful in determining the most important design parameters for spray aeration systems. In addition, the study elucidates the advantages of spray aeration in removing brominated THM species.

ABSTRACT Eggshell is a potentially common archaeological resource, but it tends to be ignored. The recent development of ZooMS (zooarchaeology by mass spectrometry) as a rapid and robust system for taxonomic identification of preserved eggshell fragments has facilitated new insights into patterns of egg use in the past. This paper presents a case study of egg use at two sites in Anglo-Scandinavian York (Hungate and Coppergate). The results described below suggest that the relative prevalence of goose eggshell may become a useful indicator of status, consistent with other characteristics of the two sites, and also demonstrate an apparent lack of exploitation of eggs of wild birds in York during the Anglo-Scandinavian period. These results highlight the interpretative potential of eggshell, which can now begin to be more fully explored. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE A variety of metabolic, dietary and climatic influences on isotopic variation have been established in mammalian hair. The relevance of these factors to collagen isotopic composition is unknown, but would be of great interest to zooarchaeological analyses of faunal skeletal tissue. METHODS The relationships between carbon (δ13C), nitrogen (δ15N), non-exchangeable hydrogen (δ2H) and oxygen (δ18O) values of defatted, demineralised and gelatinised bone collagen and defatted wool keratin from two sheep flocks (n = 20, 5) in the UK were investigated, including testing for the effects of nutritional plane, sex, pregnancy and season of sample collection. The sulfur composition (δ34S values) was also investigated for tissues from the smaller flock. RESULTS Bulk collagen was enriched in 13C over bulk keratin by 2.0 − 2.7‰ and in 2H by 29 − 40‰ but depleted in 18O relative to keratin by 1.8‰. Differences in δ15N values were within experimental error. The collagen samples were generally more enriched in 34S than keratin, but this was very variable. Pregnancy, sex and season, but not nutritional plane, significantly affected isotope values but did not change overall keratin-collagen relationships. CONCLUSIONS This dataset provides a baseline measure of variability and comparability for isotopic investigations into origin and husbandry conditions in archaeological sheep tissues, both collagen and keratin. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The role of CD8 T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of asthma is not well understood. We investigated whether a subset of IL-13-producing BLT1-positive CD8 T lymphocytes are present in asthmatic airways and are associated with impaired lung function. Methods Bronchoalveolar lavage ( BAL) cells were obtained from asthmatic ( n = 39) and healthy control ( n = 28) subjects. Cells were stimulated with phorbol ester and ionomycin in the presence of brefeldin A and stained for CD8, BLT1, and intracellular IL-13. The frequency of IL-13-producing BLT1-positive CD8 T lymphocytes was compared between the two groups and related to lung function, serum Ig E levels, and reticular basement membrane ( RBM) thickness. Results A subset of CD8 T lymphocytes expressing BLT1 and producing IL-13 were detected in the airways of all asthmatic subjects. The frequency of this subset among recovered lymphocytes was significantly higher in the airways of asthmatic subjects compared with controls (mean ± SEM: 16.2 ± 1.4 vs 5.3 ± 0.5, respectively, P < 0.001) and correlated positively with serum IgE levels and RBM thickness. More importantly, the frequency of CD8 T lymphocytes co-expressing BLT1 and IL-13 was inversely related to FEV1 and FEF[25-75] percent predicted values ( P < 0.001). Conclusions A subset of CD8 T lymphocytes expressing BLT1 and producing IL-13 is present in the airways of asthmatics. The accumulation of these cells is associated with airway obstruction, suggesting that they may play a significant pathogenic role in bronchial asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an investigation on the corrosion performance of Ni/Au, NiP/Au, Ni/NiP/Au and Ni/NiPd/Au electrical connector coating systems. The coating systems were exposed to 10 days Class III mixed flowing gas and were subsequently examined by X-ray diffraction, focused ion beam microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy to evaluate the performance of each coating system. The Ni/Au coating system showed the worst performance followed by NiP/Au and Ni/NiP/Au. The Ni/NiPd/Au coated connector materials exhibited the least surface corrosion and this was attributed to a number of factors including a thicker coating system, more compact gold layer with fewer defects and a reduction in the electrochemical potential difference between layers reducing the local cell effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A clear policy trend exists towards promoting the use of direct payments (DPs), including those for families with disabled children who use short breaks. However, uptake has been slow and use of DPs has been socially patterned. Recent programmes in England have dramatically increased investment in short break provision including breaks funded through DPs. This research examines the characteristics, circumstances and experiences of families who use DPs to fund short breaks with those who use short breaks funded in other ways. Method The paper draws on surveys totalling 348 parents and carers in families with disabled children using short breaks. We investigate associations between the use of DPs and a range of demographic, socio-economic, well-being, service use and satisfaction indicators. Logistic regression identifies which variables are most strongly associated with use of DPs. We also draw on open-ended survey responses which highlight important aspects of families' experience of using DPs. Results Characteristics significantly associated with increased use of DPs include the presence of main carers who are female, more highly educated and from White British backgrounds, younger children, lower levels of area deprivation, greater access to service and social networks and use of more hours of short breaks. Characteristics not found to be significantly associated with use of DPs include various health and well-being indicators, impairment characteristics of children and service satisfaction. A range of benefits of DPs are described along with problems accessing and using them. Conclusions Direct payments can have a number of benefits for families using short breaks, but access to them is currently problematic and socially patterned. If the uptake of DPs is to be increased and made more equitable, more attention must be paid to promoting and supporting their use in ways which meet the needs of individual families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Detailed surveys of the upper Hudson River Estuary and its floodplain from the early 1900s and digital mapping of the same areas today provide an opportunity to evaluate changes over the 20th century. This study uses a geographic information system to quantitatively compare water areas and islands mapped by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1907 and 1911 along an approximately 60-km reach from Athens to Troy, NY, with the same features mapped in the late 20th century. The comparison shows a substantial decrease in total water area approximately 30% less than the 1907-1911 quantity, with secondary channels disproportionally affected (~70% less). The number and total area of islands has also dramatically decreased by approximately 65% and 85%, respectively. These changes primarily reflect the success of navigation improvement projects undertaken since the 19th century that transformed a shallow, island-braided river in the study reach to one characterized by a deeper, single-thread channel. Dredge spoils from the main channel were used to fill secondary channels and other backwater areas, a practice with implications for reproduction, growth and/or survival of native plants and animals. Published in 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT It is generally a challenge to interpret incomplete and degraded skeletal assemblages found during archaeological excavations. Several events after the death of animals and humans, before and during burial, will have influenced the situation as seen upon excavation. This postmortem sequence of events can be called the taphonomic history of bones. Taphonomic signatures as detected using histology can provide additional data on deposition/burial and the evolution of the burial environment. This article reports on the results of a histological characterisation of diagenetic alterations in a bone assemblage from the Roman period burial and settlement site of Castricum, located in the province of Noord-Holland in the Netherlands. The aim is to assess the relationship between bone histology and known taphonomic events. Both transmitted light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to investigate histological changes. In 1995, the excavation at Castricum uncovered the skeletal material of humans and a variety of animal species that had received different burial treatments. The humans, as well as some dogs and cattle, were buried as complete inhumations. The skeletal remains of horses provided evidence of surface exposure before deposition. In addition, both environmental changes (e.g. variations in groundwater levels) and disturbances by later human activity are known to have occurred since the internment of the bones. Together with the animal refuse bones from the site, this assemblage provides an excellent opportunity to investigate the relationship between early taphonomy, burial conditions and histological appearance. The complex taphonomic history of the Castricum skeletal material was found to be reflected in several characteristic alterations of the bone microstructure such as the extent of bioerosion, cracking, staining and inclusions of framboidal pyrite crystals. This allowed for the reconstruction of a postmortem sequence of events. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are critical to ligament homeostasis and integrity, the aim of this study was to investigate whether four functional polymorphisms within four MMP genes, which cluster on chromosome 11q22 associate with risk of ACL ruptures. Three hundred and forty-five [129 with ACL ruptures (ACL group) and 216 asymptomatic controls (CON group)] unrelated Caucasians were recruited for this case-control study. Fifty-four participants reported non-contact mechanisms of ACL rupture (NON subgroup). All participants were genotyped for the MMP10 C/T rs486055, MMP1 1G/2G rs1799750, MMP3 G/A rs679620 and MMP12 A/G rs2276109 variants. After adjusting for sex, age and weight, the AG and GG genotypes of the MMP12 rs2276109 variant were significantly ( P=0.030 ) under-represented among the NON subgroup (14%), when compared with the CON group (26%). No other variants were significantly different between groups. Adjusted for the same confounders, the two four-variant haplotypes T-1G-A-A (CON 14%, ACL 9%, P=0.033) and C-2G-G-G (CON 14%, NON 5%, P=0.021) were significantly different between the CON and the ACL groups, and the CON group and the NON subgroup, respectively. This is the first report that indicates an association between the chromosomal region 11q22 and the risk of ACL rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Adefovir and tenofovir are nucleotide analogues used as long-term therapy of chronic hepatitis B. Side effects are few, but prolonged and high-dose therapy has been associated with proximal renal tubular dysfunction ( RTD). Aim To assess the incidence of RTD during long-term nucleotide therapy of chronic hepatitis B. Methods A total of 51 patients being treated at the Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health were studied. Diagnosis of RTD required de novo appearance of at least three of five features: hypophosphataemia, hypouricaemia, serum creatinine elevation, proteinuria or glucosuria. Results Among 51 patients treated for 1-10 (mean 7.4) years with adefovir ( n = 42), tenofovir ( n = 4) or adefovir followed by tenofovir ( n = 5), 7 (14%) developed RTD. Time to onset ranged from 22 to 94 (mean 49) months with an estimated 10-year cumulative rate of 15%. All seven had low urinary percent maximal tubular reabsorption of phosphate (<82%). Patients with RTD were older (58 vs. 44 years; P = 0.01) and had lower baseline glomerular filtration rates (82 vs. 97 cc/min; P = 0.08) compared to those without; but did not differ in other features. Six patients with RTD were switched to entecavir, all subsequently had improvements in serum phosphate (2.0-3.0 mg/dL), creatinine (1.6-1.1 mg/dL), uric acid (2.7-3.8 mg/dL) and proteinuria. Conclusions Renal tubular dysfunction develops in 15% of patients treated with adefovir or tenofovir for 2-9 years and is partially reversible with change to other antivirals. Monitoring for serum phosphate, creatinine and urinalysis is prudent during long-term adefovir and tenofovir therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early in the 1990s, several case series described adults suffering from dysphagia and children with refractory reflux symptoms, both accompanied by an eosinophil-predominant infiltration, thereby conclusively distinguishing it from gastroesophageal reflux disease. Eosinophilic esophagitis ( Eo E) was recognized as its own entity in the adult and in the pediatric literature. In the last decade, evidence has accumulated that Eo E represents a T-helper ( Th)2-type inflammatory disease. Remodeling of the esophagus is a hallmark of Eo E, leading to esophageal dysfunction and bolus impaction. Familial occurrence and disease association with single-nucleotide polymorphisms underscore the influence of genetics in this disease. Eosinophilic esophagitis may affect individuals at any age, although the clinical presentation is highly age dependent. There is a significant allergic bias in the Eo E population, with the majority of patients having concurrent allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, and/or a history of atopy. One noteworthy difference is that in children, Eo E seems to be primarily a food antigen-driven disease, whereas in adults, mainly aeroallergen sensitization has been observed. Treatment modalities for Eo E include the 3 Ds: drugs, diet, and dilation. The crucial question of whether adult and pediatric Eo E are different phenotypes of one single entity or whether we are confronted with two different diseases is still open. Here, we review similarities and differences between Eo E in adults and children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased and decreased joint range of motion (ROM) are modifiable risk factors for musculoskeletal soft-tissue injuries. Certain heritable disorders of connective tissue, which have a unifying symptom of joint hypermobility, are caused by mutations within the COL5A1 gene. Furthermore, the COL5A1 BstUI restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) sequence variant is associated with ROM measurements in a mixed injured/uninjured cohort. The association between COL5A1 BstUI RFLP and sit and reach (SR) ROM in an apparently healthy and physically active cohort was investigated. The SR test was performed on 325 white subjects (204 males). Subjects were also genotyped for the BstUI RFLP (C/T) within the 3′-untranslated region of the COL5A1 gene. The COL5A1 BstUI RFLP genotype was associated with SR ROM in older (≥35 years) subjects (TT: 225 ± 96 mm, TC: 245 ± 100 mm, CC: 32 ± 108 mm, N=96, P=0.017). Age and COL5A1 BstUI genotype interacted significantly for SR ROM. Sex and COL5A1 genotype accounted for 22.8% of the variance in SR ROM in the older group. The COL5A1 BstUI RFLP is associated with SR ROM, particularly with increasing age and is an important contributing factor to ROM variation, particularly in older, apparently healthy and physically active individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posttreatment aeration inside water tanks or in chlorine contact basins to strip trihalomethanes (THMs) after formation is an underused and cost-effective treatment option to reduce disinfection by-products. In this study, diffused aeration achieved removal rates of 9 to > 99.5%, depending on air-to-water ratio, water temperature, and THM species. Spray aeration--a more efficient process--achieved THM reductions of 20 to > 99.5%, depending on droplet diameter, droplet travel distance, water temperature, and THM species. Droplet diameter is an important design variable and is controlled by operating pressure and nozzle characteristics. Droplet travel distance, however, exerted a greater influence on THM removals. The average droplet diameter and travel distance variables can be developed into a unit air-to-water volumetric ratio that can be used to reasonably predict total THM removals. Free chlorine does not appear to be reduced by aeration because only a small fraction of it will be amenable to removal in a closedsystem environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of an ongoing project at the World Heritage Site of Bukhara, we investigated the glue used in the construction of the Khoja Zaynuddin mosque. Analysis by a range of techniques confirmed that it consisted of a collagen-based glue. However, the glue contained many non-protein constituents. The presence of lipid material suggests that the glue was produced by a relatively unsophisticated process. More surprisingly, various marker compounds of urine were found. Study of the viscosity of a mixture of a modern collagen-based glue and urea showed that the presence of urea at a concentration typical of human urine reduced the viscosity of the glue, thus improving its spreading characteristics and enabling its use at a lower temperature. Whilst the advantages of adding urea to glue were known to craftsmen in Europe and America in the 19th century, it would appear that the builders of Bukhara were aware of the technique, using less pure components, at a significantly earlier date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to identify genetic markers and genomic regions associated with susceptibility to Mycobacterium avium ssp . paratuberculosis ( MAP) infection in Holstein cattle. Associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified by genotyping 521 MAP-infected Holstein cows and comparing SNP allele frequencies of these infected cows with allele frequencies estimated from specific reference populations. Reference population allele frequency estimates used Holstein sire genotype data and were weighted estimates based on sire usage within the population in question. The 521 infected cows were 233 and 288 cows from two resource populations of approximately 5000 cows each, collected independently. Population 1 was comprised primarily of daughters of twelve Holstein artificial insemination sires used heavily within the US dairy cattle population. Samples were obtained from 300 co-operating commercial dairy herds throughout the US and were tested by both MAP faecal culture and blood-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Population 2 consisted of dairy cattle from six co-operating dairy herds in Wisconsin, with all animals in the herds tested by blood enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for MAP infection. Genotyping was performed with the Illumina Bovine SNP50 Bead Chip, providing genotypes for 35 772 informative SNPs. Data from the two resource populations were analysed both in separate and combined analyses. The most significant autosomal markers from the individual and combined analyses ( n = 197, nominal P < 0.001) were used in a stepwise logistic regression analysis to identify a set of 51 SNPs that could be used as a predictor of genetics for Holstein cattle susceptibility to MAP infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vasculitic neuropathy can be confirmed by demonstrating vasculitis in a nerve biopsy, but it is uncertain to what extent combined (i.e. nerve/muscle) biopsy improves the yield. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to assess the additional yield of combined biopsy in vasculitic neuropathy. Medline, Embase, LILACS and ISI were searched from January 1980 until January 2009 for relevant articles on the yield of nerve, muscle or combined biopsy to diagnose vasculitic neuropathy. Fourteen (15%) studies were included. Methodological quality was scored using a modified Quality Assessment for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool. In patients clinically suspected of vasculitic neuropathy, the additional yield of definite vasculitis in combined biopsy was 5.1% (95% CI 1.1-9.2%; P = 0.013). In patients diagnosed with vasculitic neuropathy, the additional yield of definite vasculitis in combined biopsy was 15% (95% CI 2.1-28%; P = 0.023). There is a modest additional yield of definite vasculitis in combined biopsy compared to nerve biopsy alone. Because of methodological flaws in analysed studies, the findings should be validated in a prospective study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research by soil scientists examining estuarine aquatic substrates has identified pedogenic processes, resulting in the reclassification of these aquatic substrates (sediments) as subaqueous soils (SASs). Pedogenic processes in SASs are similar in concept to those occurring in subaerial soils, and thus SASs can be described and mapped based on pedogenic similarities using Jenny’s soil forming factors for interpreting soil genesis. The occurrence of SASs in estuarine and freshwater ecosystems places them at the centre of many ecosystem-dependent processes supporting food webs linked directly to the human population and its economy. Early research on SASs has been driven by addressing fishery habitat support questions for US subaquatic vegetation populations (SAV), and for estimating the carbon sequestration potential of soils with SAV. New land use interpretations for SASs include bottom type, presence of sulphidic materials, potential for submerged aquatic vegetation restoration, limitations for moorings and species lists for plants and algae common to tidal areas. Subaquatic soils are a viable, exciting frontier of soil science research that will surely foster multi-disciplinary collaborations. While their genesis is only beginning to be understood, it is clear that their importance in human-dependent land management issues such as soil and water quality, food supply and human survival is great. However, the fragility of such soils for providing vital functions to support life on Earth suggests that they need to be investigated and monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors comment on the study "Mortgage origination fraud and the global economic crisis: A criminological analysis," discussed within the issue. According to the study authors, there are three causes of the mortgage fraud that led to the Great Recession. These are inadequate regulation, improper use of alternative loan products and lack of accountability. The recommended changes that the mortgage lending industry need to consider are analyzed.

OBJECTIVE: Patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis respond well to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) blockers in general; however, there is now mounting evidence that a small cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who receive TNFalpha blockers develop psoriasis. This study was undertaken to explore the mechanisms underlying TNFalpha blockade-induced exacerbation of skin inflammation in murine psoriasis-like skin disease. METHODS: Skin inflammation was induced in BALB/c scid/scid mice after they received CD4+CD45RB(high)CD25- (naive CD4) T cells from donor mice. These mice were treated with either anti-interleukin-12 (anti-IL-12)/23p40 antibody or murine TNFRII-Fc fusion protein and were examined for signs of disease, including histologic features, various cytokine levels in the serum, and cytokine or FoxP3 transcripts in the affected skin and draining lymph node (LN) cells. In a separate study, naive CD4+ T cells were differentiated into Th1 or Th17 lineages with anti-CD3/28 magnetic beads and appropriate cytokines in the presence or absence of TNFalpha. Cytokine gene expression from these differentiated cells was also determined. RESULTS: Neutralization of TNFalpha exacerbated skin inflammation and markedly enhanced the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-17, IL-21, and IL-22 but suppressed FoxP3 expression in the skin and reduced the number of FoxP3-positive Treg cells in the draining LNs. TNFalpha also demonstrated a divergent role during priming and reactivation of naive T cells. CONCLUSION: These results reveal a novel immunoregulatory role of TNFalpha on Th17 and Treg cells in some individuals, which may account for the exacerbation of skin inflammation in some patients who receive anti-TNF treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an interest in identifying the intrinsic risk factors, including altered musculotendinous flexibility, that may be associated with musculotendinous injuries. We have recently shown that a sequence variant, namely the BstUI restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), within the COL5A1 gene is associated with chronic Achilles tendinopathy. Mutations within COL5A1 have been implicated in Ehlers Danlos syndrome, a condition that is characterized by joint hypermobility. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of sequence variants within COL5A1 and musculotendinous range of motion (ROM). The sit and reach (SR) and the passive straight leg raise (SLR) were measured on 119 Caucasian subjects with either a past, current or no history of Achilles tendon injuries. The subjects were genotyped for four sequence variants within the 3′-UTR of the COL5A1 gene. Gender ( P=0.016), age ( P=0.011) and the BstUI RFLP ( P=0.010) jointly contributed significantly to the optimal SLR model which accounted for 19.3% of the variance. The factors contributing significantly to SR, which accounted for 28.8% of the variance, were weight ( P=0.004), age ( P<0.001) and the BstUI RFLP ( P=0.001). These data suggest that the COL5A1 BstUI RFLP is independently associated with lower limb ROM within the cohort investigated in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poor accuracy of most current methods for estimating age-at-death in adult human skeletal remains is among the key problems facing palaeodemography. In forensic science, this problem has been solved for unburnt remains by the development of a chemical method for age estimation, using amino acid racemization in collagen extracted from dentine. Previous application of racemization methods to archaeological material has proven problematic. This study presents the application to archaeological human remains of a new age estimation method utilizing amino acid racemization in a potentially closed system-the dental enamel. The amino acid composition and extent of racemization in enamel from two Medieval cemeteries (Newcastle Blackgate and Grantham, England) and from a documented age-at-death sample from a 19th century cemetery (Spital- friedhof St Johann, Switzerland) were determined. Alterations in the amino acid composition were detected in all populations, indicating that diagenetic change had taken place. However, in the Medieval populations, these changes did not appear to have substantially affected the relationship between racemization and age-at-death, with a strong relationship being retained between aspartic acid racemization and the morphological age estimates. In contrast, there was a poor relationship between racemization and age in the post-medieval documented age-at-death population from Switzerland. This appears to be due to leaching of amino acids post-mortem, indicating that enamel is not functioning as a perfectly closed system. Isolation of amino acids from a fraction of enamel which is less susceptible to leaching may improve the success of amino acid racemization for archaeological age estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]