bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation Targeting the Vein of Marshall in Difficult Mitral Isthmus Ablation or Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: LEE JI HYUN , NAM GI‐BYOUNG , KIM MINSU , HWANG YOU MI , HWANG JONGMIN , KIM JUN , CHOI KEE‐JOON , KIM YOU‐HO
Published: January 2017

Vein of Marshall in AF Ablation

Introduction

The ligament of Marshall may hinder the creation of mitral isthmus (MI) block or pulmonary vein (PV) isolation (PVI) in radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to assess the benefit of RF ablation targeting the vein of Marshall (VOM) in failed cases of MI block or PVI.

Methods and Results

We reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent RF ablation targeting the VOM after failed MI ablation or left PVI using the conventional method, which included circumferential point‐by‐point ablation around the PV antrum and carina for PVI, and endocardial MI and epicardial distal coronary sinus (CS) ablation for MI block. The VOM was identified by using selective VOM venography with an external irrigation RF ablation catheter. RF ablation targeting the VOM was performed with RF application at the ostium of the VOM inside the CS or at the endocardial region facing the VOM course. During the set period, CS venography was performed in 42 patients after failure of left PVI (n = 5) or MI block (n = 37). Under CS venography, the VOM was visualized in 22 of 42 patients (MI = 19 and PVI = 3). During selective venography of the VOM, no procedure‐related complication was observed. RF application targeting the VOM successfully achieved MI block in 13 patients (68.4%) and PVI in 2 patients (66.7%).

Conclusion

Selective VOM venography using an irrigated ablation catheter is feasible and safe. RF ablation targeting the VOM may provide additional benefit in failed cases of MI block or PVI.
Comparison of effects of zoledronic acid and clodronate on the bone structure: imaginological and histomorphometrical study in vivo
Authors: Martelli Stephanie Joana Roman , Damian Melissa Feres , Gomes Ana Paula Neutzling , Schinestsck André Ribeiro , Silva Alexandre Emídio Ribeiro , Vasconcelos Ana Carolina Uchoa
Published: January 2017

Objectives

To compare histologically and imaginologically the bone structure of rats' mandibles treated with bisphosphonates (BPs) and rats that did not receive BPs.

Methods

Thirty‐four rat specimens (Rattus novergicus, Wistar strain) were divided into three groups: (i) 12 rats treated with zoledronic acid; (ii) 12 rats treated with clodronate; and (iii) the control group, containing 10 rats that received saline solution. All individuals were exposed to cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The images were processed and analyzed to obtain the Hounsfield scores, using the software OsiriX 7.0. Sixty‐eight histological slides were obtained from the specimens and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE). Using the software Adobe Photoshop CS6, the histological areas containing non‐vital bone were identified and quantified.

Results

Non‐vital bone presented positive association with the zoledronic acid and clodronate groups. Statistically, no significant difference in bone density was observed among the groups.

Conclusions

Based on the results, the BP therapy alone was sufficient to induce osteonecrosis. In addition, the CBCT was not a sensible method for detection of the early signs of bone modification in individuals under BP therapy.
Short‐term Effects of Genistein on the Reproductive Characteristics of Male Gibel Carp, Carassius auratus gibelio
Authors: Nezafatian Elham , Zadmajid Vahid , Cleveland Beth M.
Published: January 2017

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of genistein or 17β‐estradiol (E2) on the reproductive physiology in male gibel carp, Carassius auratus gibelio. Maturing male gibel carp received intraperitoneal injections of E2 (10 µg/g body weight), one of two genistein doses (5 µg/g body weight, G5, or 50 µg/g body weight, G50), or the injection vehicle every other day for 10 d. Disruptions in reproductive capacity were determined by measuring indices of sperm quality, plasma metabolites and sex steroids, histological analyses of testes, fertilization rate, and offspring viability. E2 and genistein treatment reduced gonadosomatic index and milt volume, while reduction in spermatozoa concentration and spermatocrit occurred only in E2 and G50‐treated males. Histological examination of the testes indicates that E2 and genistein inhibited reproductive capacity through disruption of the spermatogenesis in males. Genistein reduced fertilization rate and offspring viability at 6 d after hatch (d.a.h.). Plasma testosterone and E2 decreased and increased, respectively, with E2 and G50 treatment. E2 and G50 treatment altered plasma metabolite phosphorus, calcium, cholesterol, and triglyceride. These findings indicate that genistein can negatively affect reproductive capacity in male gibel carp, suggesting that high dietary genistein may impair gonad development.
Review: Tau in biofluids – relation to pathology, imaging and clinical features
Authors: Zetterberg H.
Published: January 2017

Tau is a microtubule‐binding protein that is important for the stability of neuronal axons. It is normally expressed within neurons and is also secreted into the brain interstitial fluid that communicates freely with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and, in a more restricted manner, blood via the glymphatic clearance system of the brain. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), neuroaxonal degeneration results in increased release of tau from neurons. Furthermore, tau is truncated and phosphorylated, which leads to aggregation of tau in neurofibrillary tangles of the proximal axoplasm. Neuroaxonal degeneration and tangle formation are reflected by increased concentrations of total tau (T‐tau, measured using assays that detect most forms of tau) and phospho‐tau (P‐tau, measured using assays with antibodies specific to phosphorylated forms of tau). In AD CSF, both T‐tau and P‐tau concentrations are increased. In stroke and other CNS disorders with neuroaxonal injury but without tangles, T‐tau is selectively increased, whereas P‐tau concentration often stays normal. In tauopathies (diseases with both neurodegeneration and neurofibrillary tangles) other than AD, CSF T‐tau and P‐tau concentrations are typically unaltered, which is a puzzling result that warrants further investigation. In the current review, I discuss the association of T‐tau and P‐tau concentrations in body fluids with neuropathological changes, imaging findings and clinical features in AD and other CNS diseases.
Assessment of interfering factors in non‐adherence to oral appliance therapy in severe sleep apnea
Authors: Haviv Y , Zini A , Almoznino G , Keshet N , Sharav Y , Aframian DJ
Published: January 2017

Objective

Oral appliances (OA) are recommended for patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea who fail to comply with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. This mixed‐methods study aimed to quantify adherence to OA therapy and evaluate subjective reasons associated with non‐adherence.

Materials and Methods

The medical records of 52 patients with an apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 40, treated with OA after discontinuation of CPAP treatment, were examined for OA adherence. Patients were divided according to usage at the time of a phone interview. The USER group included all forms of usage, whereas those who completely ceased using the OA were in the NUSE group. The timing of the phone interview was from five months to six years (average 44.63 ± 17.17 months) after OA delivery.

Results

The overall adherence rate was 57.7% (30/52 patients). The mean usage times were 10.07 ± 8.96 and 44.30 ± 17.3 months in the NUSE and NUSE groups, respectively. The main factors associated with non‐adherence were concerns about the effects of the OA on teeth (22%) and insufficient efficacy (22%). Other factors were discomfort (15%) and improved well‐being following weight loss (15%). The overall number of interfering and discontinuity factors was significantly higher in the NUSE group than in the USER group (P = 0.041). Nine (17.3%) of 52 patients resumed CPAP use. Subjective and objective outcomes, determined by using a second sleep test with OA in 69.2% of patients, were related to the continuation of treatment.

Conclusions

On‐adherence to OA is strongly associated with patient reservations regarding the effects of the device on teeth, possible lack of efficacy, and discomfort. Clinicians should closely monitor adherence patterns and assess potential interfering factors during their diagnostic workup. Patients should be reassured regarding device safety, particularly following dental work that may interfere with the insertion of the OA.
Color Relationalism and Relativism
Authors: Byrne Alex , Hilbert David R.
Published: January 2017

This paper critically examines color relationalism and color relativism, two theories of color that are allegedly supported by variation in normal human color vision. We mostly discuss color relationalism, defended at length in Jonathan Cohen's The Red and the Real, and argue that the theory has insuperable problems.
Drowsiness Detection With Electrooculography Signal Using a System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Chen Dongmei , Ma Zheren , Li Brandon C. , Yan Zeyu , Li Wei
Published: January 2017

The electrooculography (EOG) signal is considered most suitable for drowsiness detection. Besides its simplicity and low cost, EOG signals are not affected by environmental factors such as light intensity and driver movement. However, existing EOG-based drowsiness detection techniques employ arbitrarily chosen features for classifier training, leading to results that are less robust against changes in the measurement method, noise level, and individual subject variability. In this study, we propose a system dynamics-based approach to drowsiness detection. The EOG signal is treated as a neurophysiological response of the oculomotor system. Each blink action is considered as a result of a series of neuron firing impulses entering the system. Blink signatures are thus extracted to identify the system transfer function, from which system poles are computed to characterize the drowsiness state of the subject. It was found that the location of system poles on the pole–zero map for blink signatures from an alert state was distinctly different from those from a drowsy state. A simple criterion was subsequently developed for drowsiness detection by counting the ratio of real and complex poles of the system over any given period of time. The proposed methodology is a systematic approach and does not require extensive classifier training. It is robust against variations in the subject condition, sensor placement, noise level, and blink rate.
Strain Rate and Stress-State Dependence of Gray Cast Iron
Authors: Brauer S. A. , Whittington W. R. , Johnson K. L. , Li B. , Rhee H. , Allison P. G. , Crane C. K. , Horstemeyer M. F.
Published: January 2017

An investigation of the mechanical strain rate, inelastic behavior, and microstructural evolution under deformation for an as-cast pearlitic gray cast iron (GCI) is presented. A complex network of graphite, pearlite, steadite, and particle inclusions was stereologically quantified using standard techniques to identify the potential constituents that define the structure–property relationships, with the primary focus being strain rate sensitivity (SRS) of the stress–strain behavior. Volume fractions for pearlite, graphite, steadite, and particles were determined as 74%, 16%, 9%, and 1%, respectively. Secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) was quantified as 22.50 μm ± 6.07 μm. Graphite flake lengths and widths were averaged as 199 μm ± 175 μm and 4.9 μm ± 2.3 μm, respectively. Particle inclusions comprised of manganese and sulfur with an average size of 13.5 μm ± 9.9 μm. The experimental data showed that as the strain rate increased from 10−3 to 103 s−1, the averaged strength increased 15–20%. As the stress state changed from torsion to tension to compression at a strain of 0.003 mm/mm, the stress asymmetry increased ∼470% and ∼670% for strain rates of 10−3 and 103 s−1, respectively. As the strain increased, the stress asymmetry differences increased further. Coalescence of cracks emanating from the graphite flake tips exacerbated the stress asymmetry differences. An internal state variable (ISV) plasticity-damage model that separately accounts for damage nucleation, growth, and coalescence was calibrated and used to give insight into the damage and work hardening relationship.
Energy-Absorbing Capacity of Polyurethane/SiC/Glass-Epoxy Laminates Under Impact Loading
Authors: Balaganesan G. , Akshaj Kumar V. , Khan V. C. , Srinivasan S. M.
Published: January 2017

This paper presents the energy absorption of target materials with combinations of polyurethane (PU) foam, PU sheet, SiC inserts, and SiC plate bonded to glass fiber reinforced composite laminate backing during impact loading. SiC inserts and SiC plates are bonded as front layer to enhance energy absorption and to protect composite laminate. The composite laminates are prepared by hand lay-up process and other layers are bonded by using epoxy. Low-velocity impact is conducted by using drop mass setup, and mild steel spherical nosed impactor is used for impact testing of target in fixed boundary conditions. Energy absorption and damage are compared to the target plates when subjected to impact at different energy levels. The energy absorbed in various failure modes is analyzed for various layers of target. Failure in the case of SiC inserts is local, and the insert under the impact point is damaged. However, in the other cases, the SiC plate is damaged along with fiber failure and delamination on the composite backing laminate. It is observed that the energy absorbed by SiC plate layered target is higher than SiC inserts layered target.
Prediction of Stress–Strain Curves of Metastable Austenitic Stainless Steel Considering Deformation-Induced Martensitic Transformation
Authors: Kumnorkaew T. , Uthaisangsuk V.
Published: January 2017

Transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) effect is the outstanding mechanism of austenitic stainless steel. It plays an important role in increasing formability of the steel due to higher local strain hardening during deformation. In order to better understand forming behavior of this steel grade, the strain-induced martensitic transformation of the 304 stainless steel was investigated. Uniaxial tensile tests were performed at different temperatures for the steel up to varying strain levels. Stress–strain curves and work hardening rates with typical TRIP effect characteristics were obtained. Metallographic observations in combination with X-ray diffraction method were employed for determining microstructure evolution. Higher volume fraction of martensite was found by increasing deformation level and decreasing forming temperature. Subsequently, micromechanics models based on the Mecking–Kocks approach and Gladman-type mixture law were applied to predict amount of transformed martensite and overall flow stress curves. Hereby, individual constituents of the steel and their developments were taken into account. Additionally, finite element (FE) simulations of two representative volume element (RVE) models were conducted, in which effective stress–strain responses and local stress and strain distributions in the microstructures were described under consideration of the TRIP effect. It was found that flow stress curves calculated by the mixture law and RVE simulations fairly agreed with the experimental results. The RVE models with different morphologies of martensite provided similar effective stress–strain behavior, but unlike local stress and strain distributions, which could in turn affect the strain-induced martensitic transformation.
Overlooked possibility of a collapsed Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in warming climate
Authors: Liu Wei , Xie Shang-Ping , Liu Zhengyu , Zhu Jiang
Published: January 2017

Climate models underestimate the possibility of a collapsed Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation under climate warming.
German researchers start 2017 without Elsevier journals
Authors: Vogel Gretchen
Published: January 2017

More than 60 institutions lose online subscriptions after negotiations over price and open access stall.
Volcanic tremor and plume height hysteresis from Pavlof Volcano, Alaska
Authors: Fee David , Haney Matthew M. , Matoza Robin S. , Van Eaton Alexa R. , Cervelli Peter , Schneider David J. , Iezzi Alexandra M.
Published: January 2017

Hearing a volcanic plume

Monitoring remote eruptions—such as that of Pavlof Volcano, Alaska, in 2016—is challenging. Fee
et al.
found that the height of the ash plume during the Pavlof eruption could be inferred from sound waves detected by distant infrasound arrays and measurements of seismic tremor. The use of sound waves for monitoring is uncommon but well suited for remote eruptions, especially when we lack visual or satellite observations.

Science
, this issue p.
45
Inside Cuba
¡Cuba!
Ana Luz Porzecanski and Chris Raxworthy, curators
American Museum of Natural History, New York. Through 13 August 2017.
Authors: Rademacher Anne
Published: January 2017

An immersive exhibition introduces visitors to the country's rich culture and biodiversity
Staying conductive in the stretch
Authors: Napolitano Simone
Published: January 2017

A nanoconfined polymer retained its conductivity even when highly strained
High-Dose Ampicillin-Sulbactam Combinations Combat Polymyxin-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in a Hollow-Fiber Infection Model
Authors: Lenhard Justin R. , Smith Nicholas M. , Bulman Zackery P. , Tao Xun , Thamlikitkul Visanu , Shin Beom S. , Nation Roger L. , Li Jian , Bulitta Jürgen B. , Tsuji Brian T.
Published: January 2017

Acinetobacter baumannii
is emerging with resistance to polymyxins. In 24-h time-kill experiments, high-dose ampicillin-sulbactam in combination with meropenem and polymyxin B achieved additivity or synergy against 10
8
CFU/ml of two clinical
A. baumannii
isolates resistant to all three drugs (maximum reductions, 1.6 and 3.1 logs). In a 14-day hollow-fiber infection model, high-dose ampicillin-sulbactam (8/4 g every 8 h, respectively) in combination with meropenem (2 g every 8 h) and polymyxin B (1.43 mg/kg of body weight every 12 h with loading dose) resulted in rapid (96 h) eradication of
A. baumannii
.
Activity of a Long-Acting Echinocandin (CD101) and Seven Comparator Antifungal Agents Tested against a Global Collection of Contemporary Invasive Fungal Isolates in the SENTRY 2014 Antifungal Surveillance Program
Authors: Pfaller Michael A. , Messer Shawn A. , Rhomberg Paul R. , Castanheira Mariana
Published: January 2017

The activity of CD101 and comparator antifungal agents against 606 invasive fungal isolates collected worldwide during 2014 was evaluated using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) method. All
Candida albicans
(
n
= 251),
Candida tropicalis
(
n
= 51),
Candida krusei
(
n
= 16), and
Candida dubliniensis
(
n
= 11) isolates were inhibited by ≤0.12 μg/ml of CD101 and were susceptible or showed wild-type susceptibility to the other echinocandins tested. Five
C. glabrata
isolates (
n
= 100) displayed CD101 MIC values of 1 to 4 μg/ml, had elevated MICs of caspofungin (2 to >8 μg/ml), anidulafungin (2 to 4 μg/ml), and micafungin (2 to 4 μg/ml), and carried mutations on
fks1
and
fks2
.
Candida parapsilosis
(
n
= 92) and
Candida orthopsilosis
(
n
= 10) displayed higher CD101 MIC values (ranges, 0.5 to 4 μg/ml and 0.12 to 2 μg/ml, respectively), and similar results were observed for the other echinocandins tested. Fluconazole resistance was noted among 11.0% of
Candida glabrata
isolates, 4.3% of
C. parapsilosis
isolates, and 2.0% of
C. albicans
and
C. tropicalis
isolates. The activity of CD101 against
Aspergillus fumigatus
(
n
= 56) was similar to that of micafungin and 2-fold greater than that of caspofungin but less than that of anidulafungin. These isolates had wild-type susceptibility to itraconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole. The echinocandins had limited activity against
Cryptococcus neoformans
(
n
= 19). CD101 was as active as the other echinocandins against common fungal organisms recovered from patients with invasive fungal infections. The long half-life profile is very desirable for the prevention and treatment of serious fungal infections, especially in patients who can then be discharged from the hospital to complete antifungal therapy on an outpatient basis.
CodY Promotes Sporulation and Enterotoxin Production by Clostridium perfringens Type A Strain SM101
Authors: Li Jihong , Freedman John C. , Evans Daniel R. , McClane Bruce A.
Published: January 2017

Clostridium perfringens
type D strains cause enterotoxemia and enteritis in livestock via epsilon toxin production. In type D strain CN3718, CodY was previously shown to increase the level of epsilon toxin production and repress sporulation.
C. perfringens
type A strains producing
C. perfringens
enterotoxin (CPE) cause human food poisoning and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Sporulation is critical for
C. perfringens
type A food poisoning since spores contribute to transmission and resistance in the harsh food environment and sporulation is essential for CPE production. Therefore, the current study asked whether CodY also regulates sporulation and CPE production in SM101, a derivative of
C. perfringens
type A food-poisoning strain NCTC8798. An isogenic
codY
-null mutant of SM101 showed decreased levels of spore formation, along with lower levels of CPE production. A complemented strain recovered wild-type levels of both sporulation and CPE production. When this result was coupled with the earlier results obtained with CN3718, it became apparent that CodY regulation of sporulation varies among different
C. perfringens
strains. Results from quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR analysis clearly demonstrated that, during sporulation,
codY
transcript levels remained high in SM101 but rapidly declined in CN3718. In addition,
abrB
gene expression patterns varied significantly between
codY
-null mutants of SM101 and CN3718. Compared to the levels in their wild-type parents, the level of
abrB
gene expression decreased in the CN3718
codY
-null mutant strain but significantly increased in the SM101
codY
-null mutant strain, demonstrating CodY-dependent regulation differences in
abrB
expression between these two strains. This difference appears to be important since overexpression of the
abrB
gene in SM101 reduced the levels of sporulation and enterotoxin production, supporting the involvement of AbrB repression in regulating
C. perfringens
sporulation.
RAGE-Mediated Suppression of Interleukin-10 Results in Enhanced Mortality in a Murine Model of Acinetobacter baumannii Sepsis
Authors: Noto Michael J. , Becker Kyle W. , Boyd Kelli L. , Schmidt Ann Marie , Skaar Eric P.
Published: January 2017

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a pattern recognition receptor capable of recognizing multiple pathogen-associated and danger-associated molecular patterns that contributes to the initiation and potentiation of inflammation in many disease processes. During infection, RAGE functions to either exacerbate disease severity or enhance pathogen clearance depending on the pathogen studied.
Acinetobacter baumannii
is an opportunistic human pathogen capable of causing severe infections, including pneumonia and sepsis, in impaired hosts. The role of RAGE signaling in response to opportunistic bacterial infections is largely unknown. In murine models of
A. baumannii
pneumonia, RAGE signaling alters neither inflammation nor bacterial clearance. In contrast, RAGE
−/−
mice systemically infected with
A. baumannii
exhibit increased survival and reduced bacterial burdens in the liver and spleen. The increased survival of RAGE
−/−
mice is associated with increased circulating levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). Neutralization of IL-10 in RAGE
−/−
mice results in decreased survival during systemic
A. baumannii
infection that mirrors that of wild-type (WT) mice, and exogenous IL-10 administration to WT mice enhances survival in this model. These findings demonstrate the role for RAGE-dependent IL-10 suppression as a key modulator of mortality from Gram-negative sepsis.
Characterization of IS476 and its role in bacterial spot disease of tomato and pepper
Authors: Kearney B , Staskawicz B J
Published: January 2017

IS476 is an endogenous insertion sequence present in copper-tolerant strains of Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria. Sequence analysis has revealed that the element is 1,225 base pairs in length, has 26-base-pair inverted repeats, and causes a 4-base-pair target site duplication upon insertion into the avirulence gene avrBs1. Comparison of the full-length sequence with sequences in the National Biomedical Research Foundation and National Institutes of Health data bases showed that one of the predicted IS476 proteins is partially homologous to the putative transposase of IS3 from Escherichia coli, and the inverted repeats of IS476 have significant homology to the inverted repeats of the IS51 insertion sequence of Pseudomonas syringae pv. savastanoi. A transposition assay based on the insertional inactivation of the sacRB locus of Bacillus subtilis was used to demonstrate that one of the three copies of IS476 residing on the 200-kilobase copper plasmid pXVCU1 is capable of transposition in several strains of Xanthomonas campestris. The position of IS476 insertion in several avrBs1 mutants was established and was shown to influence both induction of hypersensitivity and bacterial growth in planta.
Genetic analysis of the pAD1 hemolysin/bacteriocin determinant in Enterococcus faecalis: Tn917 insertional mutagenesis and cloning
Authors: Ike Y , Clewell D B , Segarra R A , Gilmore M S
Published: January 2017

Thirty-seven nonhemolytic/nonbacteriocinogenic mutations in Enterococcus (Streptococcus) faecalis plasmid pAD1 were generated by Tn917 insertion. All were found to belong to one of two complementation classes. Each class of mutants secreted either hemolysin/bacteriocin (Hly/Bac) component A or L into the culture medium. DNA encoding Hly/Bac was cloned in Escherichia coli in which both components of the hemolysin were expressed individually and collectively. The region encoding components A and L was further defined by deletion analysis and physically mapped. A total of approximately 8.4 kilobases of pAD1 DNA were observed to be required for hemolysin expression. Hly/Bac activity of the wild-type and the inactive L substance was observed to be heat stable. Active Hly/Bac resulting from incubating separately secreted components A and L was also found to be heat stable. The results indicate that component A activates component L and that activated component L possesses the Hly/Bac activity. Component A was also observed to be associated with host immunity to the Hly/Bac.
Multiple regulatory elements for the glpA operon encoding anaerobic glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and the glpD operon encoding aerobic glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in Escherichia coli: further characterization of respiratory control
Authors: Iuchi S , Cole S T , Lin E C
Published: January 2017

In Escherichia coli, sn-glycerol-3-phosphate can be oxidized by two different flavo-dehydrogenases, an anaerobic enzyme encoded by the glpACB operon and an aerobic enzyme encoded by the glpD operon. These two operons belong to the glp regulon specifying the utilization of glycerol, sn-glycerol-3-phosphate, and glycerophosphodiesters. In glpR mutant cells grown under conditions of low catabolite repression, the glpA operon is best expressed anaerobically with fumarate as the exogenous electron acceptor, whereas the glpD operon is best expressed aerobically. Increased anaerobic expression of glpA is dependent on the fnr product, a pleiotropic activator of genes involved in anaerobic respiration. In this study we found that the expression of a glpA1(Oxr) (oxygen-resistant) mutant operon, selected for increased aerobic expression, became less dependent on the FNR protein but more dependent on the cyclic AMP-catabolite gene activator protein complex mediating catabolite repression. Despite the increased aerobic expression of glpA1(Oxr), a twofold aerobic repressibility persisted. Moreover, anaerobic repression by nitrate respiration remained normal. Thus, there seems to exist a redox control apart from the FNR-mediated one. We also showed that the anaerobic repression of the glpD operon was fully relieved by mutations in either arcA (encoding a presumptive DNA recognition protein) or arcB (encoding a presumptive redox sensor protein). The arc system is known to mediate pleiotropic control of genes of aerobic function.
Identification and sequence of the drpA gene from Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhou Z , Syvanen M
Published: January 2017

The drpA gene of Escherichia coli encodes a factor that is involved in global RNA synthesis. We establish that the drpA gene has been successfully cloned and describe the fine-structure map of three drpA-(Ts) mutations as well as the complete nucleotide sequence of the drpA gene. We identified a major sigma-70 promoter for the drpA gene on the bases of (i) its similarity to the consensus sequence and (ii) S1 protection and primer extension mapping data. In addition, the nucleotide sequence revealed a pair of dnaA boxes and a factor-independent terminator at the 5' end and 3' end of the gene, respectively. The deduced amino acid sequence of the DrpA protein showed a nucleotide-binding pocket found in some ATPases.
Cloning, nucleotide sequence, and expression of the chromate resistance determinant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa plasmid pUM505
Authors: Cervantes C , Ohtake H , Chu L , Misra T K , Silver S
Published: January 2017

The chromate resistance determinant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa plasmid pUM505 was cloned into broad-host-range vector pSUP104. The hybrid plasmid containing an 11.1-kilobase insert conferred chromate resistance and reduced uptake of chromate in P. aeruginosa PAO1. Resistance to chromate was not expressed in Escherichia coli. Contiguous 1.6- and 6.3-kilobase HindIII fragments from this plasmid hybridized to pUM505 but not to P. aeruginosa chromosomal DNA and only weakly to chromate resistance plasmids pLHB1 and pMG6. Further subcloning produced a plasmid with an insert of 2,145 base pairs, which was sequenced. Analysis of deletions revealed that a single open reading frame was sufficient to determine chromate resistance. This open reading frame encodes a highly hydrophobic polypeptide, ChrA, of 416 amino acid residues that appeared to be expressed in E. coli under control of the T7 promoter. No significant homology was found between ChrA and proteins in the amino acid sequence libraries, but 29% amino acid identity was found with the ChrA amino acid sequence for another chromate resistance determinant sequenced in this laboratory from an Alcaligenes eutrophus plasmid (A. Nies, D. Nies, and S. Silver, submitted for publication).
Formation of UDP-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-L-galactose and UDP-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-L-galacturonic acid by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Singh S , Singh U , Hogan S E , Feingold D S
Published: January 2017

The O-specific polysaccharide from the lipopolysaccharide of Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCTC 8505 (IATS serotype O:3) consists of a tetrasaccharide repeating unit comprising L-rhamnose, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc), bacillosamine, and N-acetyl-L-galactosaminuronic acid (L-GalNAcA) (Y. Tahara and S. G. Wilkinson, Eur. J. Biochem. 134:299-304, 1983). Incubation of GlcN or UDP-GlcNAc with cell extracts or EDTA-treated cells of P. aeruginosa NCTC 8505 yielded a mixture of UDP-ManNAc, UDP-GalNAc, UDP-GlcNAcA, UDP-ManNAcA, UDP-L-GalNAc, and UDP-L-GalNAcA. The last two compounds, here identified for the first time, may be intermediates in the synthesis of the L-GalNAcA moiety of the O-specific portion of the lipopolysaccharide of P. aeruginosa.
Expression of Serratia marcescens extracellular proteins requires recA
Authors: Ball T K , Wasmuth C R , Braunagel S C , Benedik M J
Published: January 2017

A previously described regulatory mutation which abolishes expression of the extracellular nuclease of Serratia marcescens is shown to be a mutation of the Serratia recA gene. The defect in nuclease expression could be restored by introducing a plasmid carrying the recA gene of Escherichia coli. The DNA sequence of the Serratia gene is very similar to that of the E. coli gene. The putative LexA-binding site of the Serratia recA gene is almost identical to that of E. coli, along with the promoter. A similar LexA-binding site can also be found upstream of the nuclease gene. As expected from this finding, we show that nuclease expression can be induced by SOS-inducing agents such as mitomycin C. Although inducible in S. marcescens, the nuclease was expressed only at the uninduced levels in E. coli and could not be induced by mitomycin C. The extracellular chitinase and lipase were similarly affected by the mutations altering nuclease expression and were also induced by mitomycin C.
Characterization of the parasporal inclusion of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kyushuensis
Authors: Held G A , Kawanishi C Y , Huang Y S
Published: January 2017

Electron microscopy of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kyushuensis revealed that the parasporal inclusions are composed of a homogeneous center surrounded by a thick, electron-dense coating. Antibodies directed against the 135- and 65-kilodalton B. thuringiensis subsp. israelensis peptides cross-reacted with the 70- and 26-kilodalton peptides, respectively, of B. thuringiensis subsp. kyushuensis.
Isolation and characterization of mutations in the gene encoding an endogenous Bacillus subtilis beta-galactosidase and its regulator
Authors: Errington J , Vogt C H
Published: January 2017

We have isolated mutations that appear to inactivate the gene (lacA) encoding an endogenous beta-galactosidase activity in Bacillus subtilis and in a closely linked negative regulatory element (lacR). Both genes map to the hisA-thrA region. The lacA mutations may help to avoid some of the problems arising from the use of the Escherichia coli lacZ gene as a reporter gene in B. subtilis.
A Unique Capsule Locus in the Newly Designated Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Serovar 16 and Development of a Diagnostic PCR Assay
Authors: Bossé Janine T. , Li Yanwen , Sárközi Rita , Gottschalk Marcelo , Angen Øystein , Nedbalcova Katerina , Rycroft Andrew N. , Fodor László , Langford Paul R.
Published: January 2017

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
causes pleuropneumonia, an economically significant lung disease of pigs. Recently, isolates of
A. pleuropneumoniae
that were serologically distinct from the previously characterized 15 serovars were described, and a proposal was put forward that they comprised a new serovar, serovar 16. Here we used whole-genome sequencing of the proposed serovar 16 reference strain A-85/14 to confirm the presence of a unique capsular polysaccharide biosynthetic locus. For molecular diagnostics, primers were designed from the capsule locus of strain A-85/14, and a PCR was formulated that differentiated serovar 16 isolates from all 15 known serovars and other common respiratory pathogenic/commensal bacteria of pigs. Analysis of the capsule locus of strain A-85/14 combined with the previous serological data show the existence of a sixteenth serovar—designated serovar 16—of
A. pleuropneumoniae
.
Ebola Preparedness: Diagnosis Improvement Using Rapid Approaches for Proficiency Testing
Authors: Lau Katherine A. , Theis Torsten , Gray Joanna , Rawlinson William D.
Published: January 2017

The unprecedented 2015 Ebolavirus (EBOV) outbreak in West Africa was declared a public health emergency, making diagnosis and quality of testing a global issue. The accuracy of laboratory diagnostic capacity for EBOV was assessed in 2014 to 2016 using a proficiency testing (PT) strategy developed by the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Quality Assurance Programs (RCPAQAP) in Biosecurity. Following a literature search, EBOV-specific gene targets were ranked according to the frequency of their use in published methods. The most commonly used gene regions (nucleoprotein [NP], glycoprotein [GP], and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase [L]) were selected for the design of
in vitro
RNA transcripts to be included in the simulated EBOV specimens used for EBOV detection with PCR-based assays. Specimens were tested for stability and found to be stable on long-term storage (1 year) at −80°C and on shorter-term storage in lyophilized form (1 week at ambient temperature and a subsequent week at −80°C). These specimens were used in three EBOV PTs offered from April 2014 to March 2016. In the first and third PTs, all laboratories (3/3 and 9/9, respectively) correctly identified specimens containing EBOV RNA transcripts, while in the second PT, all but one laboratory (5/6) correctly confirmed the presence of EBOV. The EBOV PT panel was useful for ensuring the competency of laboratories in detecting EBOV in the absence of readily available clinical samples. The simulated EBOV specimen was safe, stable, and reliable and can be used in lyophilized form for future EBOV PT programs, allowing simplicity of transport.
The Ongoing Genetic Adaptation of Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Richter Sandra S. , Musher Daniel M.
Published: January 2017

Streptococcus pneumoniae
has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt during the conjugate vaccine era. The increasing incidence of serotype 35B disease and emergence of a multidrug-resistant clone reported in this issue of the
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
(L. Olarte et al., J Clin Microbiol 55:724–734, 2017,
https://doi.org/10.1128/JCM.01778-16
) underscore the limitations of pneumococcal vaccines that target the polysaccharide capsule.
Heat Shock Protein 90 Ensures Efficient Mumps Virus Replication by Assisting with Viral Polymerase Complex Formation
Authors: Katoh Hiroshi , Kubota Toru , Nakatsu Yuichiro , Tahara Maino , Kidokoro Minoru , Takeda Makoto
Published: January 2017

Paramyxoviral RNAs are synthesized by a viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) consisting of the large (L) protein and its cofactor phosphoprotein (P protein). The L protein is a multifunctional protein that catalyzes RNA synthesis, mRNA capping, and mRNA polyadenylation. Growing evidence shows that the stability of several paramyxovirus L proteins is regulated by heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90). In this study, we demonstrated that Hsp90 activity was important for mumps virus (MuV) replication. The Hsp90 activity was required for L-protein stability and activity because an Hsp90-specific inhibitor, 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG), destabilized the MuV L protein and suppressed viral RNA synthesis. However, once the L protein formed a mature polymerase complex with the P protein, Hsp90 activity was no longer required for the stability and activity of the L protein. When the Hsp90 activity was inhibited, the MuV L protein was degraded through the CHIP (C terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein)-mediated proteasomal pathway. High concentrations of 17-AAG showed strong cytotoxicity to certain cell types, but combined use of an Hsp70 inhibitor, VER155008, potentiated degradation of the L protein, allowing a sufficient reduction of 17-AAG concentration to block MuV replication with minimum cytotoxicity. Regulation of the L protein by Hsp90 and Hsp70 chaperones was also demonstrated for another paramyxovirus, the measles virus. Collectively, our data show that the Hsp90/Hsp70 chaperone machinery assists in the maturation of the paramyxovirus L protein and thereby in the formation of a mature RdRp complex and efficient viral replication.

IMPORTANCE
Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is nearly universally required for viral protein homeostasis. Here, we report that Hsp90 activity is required for efficient propagation of mumps virus (MuV). Hsp90 functions in the maintenance of the catalytic subunit of viral polymerase, the large (L) protein, prior to formation of a mature polymerase complex with the polymerase cofactor of L, phosphoprotein. Hsp70 collaborates with Hsp90 to regulate biogenesis of the MuV L protein. The functions of these chaperones on the viral polymerase may be common among paramyxoviruses because the L protein of measles virus is also similarly regulated. Our data provide important insights into the molecular mechanisms of paramyxovirus polymerase maturation as well as a basis for the development of novel antiviral drugs.
5′-Phospho-RNA Acceptor Specificity of GDP Polyribonucleotidyltransferase of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus in mRNA Capping
Authors: Ogino Minako , Ogino Tomoaki
Published: January 2017

The GDP polyribonucleotidyltransferase (PRNTase) domain of the multifunctional L protein of rhabdoviruses, such as vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and rabies virus, catalyzes the transfer of 5′-phospho-RNA (pRNA) from 5′-triphospho-RNA (pppRNA) to GDP via a covalent enzyme-pRNA intermediate to generate a 5′-cap structure (GpppA). Here, using an improved oligo-RNA capping assay with the VSV L protein, we showed that the Michaelis constants for GDP and pppAACAG (VSV mRNA-start sequence) are 0.03 and 0.4 μM, respectively. A competition assay between GDP and GDP analogues in the GpppA formation and pRNA transfer assay using GDP analogues as pRNA acceptors indicated that the PRNTase domain recognizes the C-2-amino group, but not the C-6-oxo group, N-1-hydrogen, or N-7-nitrogen, of GDP for the cap formation. 2,6-Diaminopurine-riboside (DAP), 7-deazaguanosine (7-deaza-G), and 7-methylguanosine (m
7
G) diphosphates efficiently accepted pRNA, resulting in the formation of DAPpppA, 7-deaza-GpppA, and m
7
GpppA (cap 0), respectively. Furthermore, either the 2′- or 3′-hydroxyl group of GDP was found to be required for efficient pRNA transfer. A 5′-diphosphate form of antiviral ribavirin weakly inhibited the GpppA formation but did not act as a pRNA acceptor. These results indicate that the PRNTase domain has a unique guanosine-binding mode different from that of eukaryotic mRNA capping enzyme, guanylyltransferase.

IMPORTANCE
mRNAs of nonsegmented negative-strand (NNS) RNA viruses, such as VSV, possess a fully methylated cap structure, which is required for mRNA stability, efficient translation, and evasion of antiviral innate immunity in host cells. GDP polyribonucleotidyltransferase (PRNTase) is an unconventional mRNA capping enzyme of NNS RNA viruses that is distinct from the eukaryotic mRNA capping enzyme, guanylyltransferase. In this study, we studied the pRNA acceptor specificity of VSV PRNTase using various GDP analogues and identified chemical groups of GDP as essential for the substrate activity. The findings presented here are useful not only for understanding the mechanism of the substrate recognition with PRNTase but also for designing antiviral agents targeting this enzyme.
Ovine Herpesvirus 2 Glycoproteins B, H, and L Are Sufficient for, and Viral Glycoprotein Ov8 Can Enhance, Cell-Cell Membrane Fusion
Authors: AlHajri Salim M. , Cunha Cristina W. , Nicola Anthony V. , Aguilar Hector C. , Li Hong , Taus Naomi S.
Published: January 2017

Ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2) is a gammaherpesvirus in the genus
Macavirus
that is carried asymptomatically by sheep. Infection of poorly adapted animals with OvHV-2 results in sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever, a fatal disease characterized by lymphoproliferation and vasculitis. There is no treatment or vaccine for the disease and no cell culture system to propagate the virus. The lack of cell culture has hindered studies of OvHV-2 biology, including its entry mechanism. As an alternative method to study OvHV-2 glycoproteins responsible for membrane fusion as a part of the entry mechanism, we developed a virus-free cell-to-cell membrane fusion assay to identify the minimum required OvHV-2 glycoproteins to induce membrane fusion. OvHV-2 glycoproteins B, H, and L (gB, gH, and gL) were able to induce membrane fusion together but not when expressed individually. Additionally, open reading frame Ov8, unique to OvHV-2, was found to encode a transmembrane glycoprotein that can significantly enhance membrane fusion. Thus, OvHV-2 gB, gH, and gL are sufficient to induce membrane fusion, while glycoprotein Ov8 plays an enhancing role by an unknown mechanism.

IMPORTANCE
Herpesviruses enter cells via attachment of the virion to the cellular surface and fusion of the viral envelope with cellular membranes. Virus-cell membrane fusion is an important step for a successful viral infection. Elucidating the roles of viral glycoproteins responsible for membrane fusion is critical toward understanding viral entry. Entry of ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2), the causative agent of sheep associated-malignant catarrhal fever, which is one of the leading causes of death in bison and other ungulates, has not been well studied due to the lack of a cell culture system to propagate the virus. The identification of OvHV-2 glycoproteins that mediate membrane fusion may help identify viral and/or cellular factors involved in OvHV-2 cell tropism and will advance investigation of cellular factors necessary for virus-cell membrane fusion. We found that OvHV-2 glycoproteins B, H, and L are sufficient for, and viral glycoprotein Ov8 can significantly enhance, cell-cell membrane fusion.
Acute respiratory distress associated with a nasopharyngeal foreign body in a seven‐month‐old French bulldog
Authors: Duplan Florent , Gelens Hans , Amsellem Pierre
Published: January 2017

This report describes an acute respiratory distress due to an unusual underlying disorder in a dog of a typical breed predisposed to the brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. The physical examination revealed a stertorous breathing compatible with a nasopharyngeal disorder. Rhinoscopy and CT scan revealed a mass‐like structure obstructing both choanae. The foreign body was successfully removed by a ventral rhinotomy as an endoscopic‐assisted procedure failed to dislodge it. A follow‐up examination 14 days later documented a complete resolution of the respiratory signs. One could have expected that brachycephalic syndrome was the source of dyspnoea. However, knowledge of the history combined with thorough evaluation of the dog's airways allowed the diagnosis of a nasopharyngeal foreign body. Practically, the authors recommend complete airway examination including thoracic and cervical radiographs, direct evaluation of larynx, bronchoscopy and retroflexed rhinoscopy to assess the nasopharynx in all dogs with dyspnoea associated with upper airway obstruction.
Theoretical investigation on vibrational spectroscopic and nonlinear optical activity of 1-(4-chloro phenyl)-3-(4-dimethylamino phenyl) prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Li Xiao-Hong , Cui Hong-Ling , Zhang Rui-Zhou
Published: January 2017

The density functional theory method was used to calculate the vibrational spectrum, geometrical structure of 1-(4-chloro phenyl)-3-(4-dimethylamino phenyl) prop-2-en-1-one in the ground state. The analysis of natural bond orbital (NBO) was also performed. The infrared spectrum was obtained and interpreted by means of potential energies distributions. NBO analysis shows that electron donation from LP(1)N atom to the anti-bonding acceptor σ*(C6–C12) of the phenyl ring results in the stabilization of 43.9 kJ/mol. The predicted NLO properties show that the βtot of the title compound is larger than that of urea and is a good candidate as a nonlinear optical material. In addition, the frontier molecular orbital is also investigated. The high βtot value and the low HOMO–LUMO energy gap assert the suitability of the grown crystal for NLO applications.