bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The catalytic activity of serine hydroxymethyltransferase is essential for de novo nuclear dTMP synthesis in lung cancer cells
Authors: Giardina Giorgio , Paone Alessio , Tramonti Angela , Lucchi Roberta , Marani Marina , Magnifico Maria Chiara , Bouzidi Amani , Pontecorvi Valentino , Guiducci Giulia , Zamparelli Carlotta , Rinaldo Serena , Paiardini Alessandro , Contestabile Roberto , Cutruzzolà Francesca
Published: July 2018

Cancer cells reprogramme one‐carbon metabolism (OCM) to sustain growth and proliferation. Depending on cell demands, serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) dynamically changes the fluxes of OCM by reversibly converting serine and tetrahydrofolate (THF) into 5,10‐methylene‐THF and glycine. SHMT is a tetrameric enzyme that mainly exists in three isoforms; two localize in the cytosol (SHMT1/SHMT2α) and one (SHMT2) in the mitochondria. Both the cytosolic isoforms can also translocate to the nucleus to sustain de novo thymidylate synthesis and support cell proliferation. Finally, the expression levels of the different isoforms are regulated to a certain extent by a yet unknown crosstalk mechanism. We have designed and fully characterized a set of three SHMT1 mutants, which uncouple the oligomeric state of the enzyme from its catalytic activity. We have then investigated the effects of the mutations on SHMT1 nuclear localization, cell viability and crosstalk in lung cancer cells (A549; H1299). Our data reveal that in these cell lines de novo thymidylate synthesis requires SHMT1 to be active, regardless of its oligomeric state. We have also confirmed that the crosstalk between the cytosolic and mitochondrial SHMT actually takes place and regulates the expression of the two isoforms. Apparently, the crosstalk mechanism is independent from the oligomeric state and the catalytic activity of SHMT1.

Database

Structural data are available in the PDB under the accession number 6FL5
From microbial eukaryotes to metazoan vertebrates: Wide spectrum paleo‐diversity in sedimentary ancient DNA over the last ~14,500 years
Authors: Kisand Veljo , Talas Liisi , Kisand Anu , Stivrins Normunds , Reitalu Triin , Alliksaar Tiiu , Vassiljev Jüri , Liiv Merlin , Heinsalu Atko , Seppä Heikki , Veski Siim
Published: July 2018

Most studies that utilize ancient DNA have focused on specific groups of organisms or even single species. Instead, the whole biodiversity of eukaryotes can be described using universal phylogenetic marker genes found within well‐preserved sediment cores that cover the post‐glacial period. Sedimentary ancient DNA samples from Lake Lielais Svētiņu, eastern Latvia, at a core depth of 1,050 cm in ~150 year intervals were used to determine phylotaxonomy in domain Eukaryota. Phylotaxonomic affiliation of >1,200 eukaryotic phylotypes revealed high richness in all major eukaryotic groups—Alveolata, Stramenopiles, Cercozoa, Chlorophyta, Charophyta, Nucletmycea, and Holozoa. The share of organisms that originate from terrestrial ecosystems was about one third, of which the most abundant molecular operational taxonomic units were Fungi and tracheal/vascular plants, which demonstrates the usefulness of using lake sediments to reconstruct the terrestrial paleoecosystems that surround them. Phylotypes that originate from the lake ecosystem belonged to various planktonic organisms; phyto‐, proto,‐ and macrozooplankton, and vascular aquatic plants. We observed greater richness of several planktonic organisms that can be associated with higher trophic status during the warm climate period between 4,000 and 8,000 years ago and an increase in eukaryotic richness possibly associated with moderate human impact over the last 2,000 years.
Subsurface processes influence oxidant availability and chemoautotrophic hydrogen metabolism in Yellowstone hot springs
Authors: Lindsay Melody R. , Amenabar Maximiliano J. , Fecteau Kristopher M. , Debes Randal V. , Fernandes Martins Maria C. , Fristad Kirsten E. , Xu Huifang , Hoehler Tori M. , Shock Everett L. , Boyd Eric S.
Published: July 2018

The geochemistry of hot springs and the availability of oxidants capable of supporting microbial metabolisms are influenced by subsurface processes including the separation of hydrothermal fluids into vapor and liquid phases. Here, we characterized the influence of geochemical variation and oxidant availability on the abundance, composition, and activity of hydrogen (H2)‐dependent chemoautotrophs along the outflow channels of two‐paired hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. The hydrothermal fluid at Roadside East (RSE; 82.4°C, pH 3.0) is acidic due to vapor‐phase input while the fluid at Roadside West (RSW; 68.1°C, pH 7.0) is circumneutral due to liquid‐phase input. Most chemotrophic communities exhibited net rates of H2 oxidation, consistent with H2 support of primary productivity, with one chemotrophic community exhibiting a net rate of H2 production. Abundant H2‐oxidizing chemoautotrophs were supported by reduction in oxygen, elemental sulfur, sulfate, and nitrate in RSW and oxygen and ferric iron in RSE; O2 utilizing hydrogenotrophs increased in abundance down both outflow channels. Sequencing of 16S rRNA transcripts or genes from native sediments and dilution series incubations, respectively, suggests that members of the archaeal orders Sulfolobales, Desulfurococcales, and Thermoproteales are likely responsible for H2 oxidation in RSE, whereas members of the bacterial order Thermoflexales and the archaeal order Thermoproteales are likely responsible for H2 oxidation in RSW. These observations suggest that subsurface processes strongly influence spring chemistry and oxidant availability, which in turn select for unique assemblages of H2 oxidizing microorganisms. Therefore, these data point to the role of oxidant availability in shaping the ecology and evolution of hydrogenotrophic organisms.
Biocompatibility of mineral trioxide aggregate flow and biodentine
Authors: Mondelli J. A. S. , Hoshino R. A. , Weckwerth P. H. , Cerri P. S. , Leonardo R. T. , Guerreiro‐Tanomaru J. M. , Tanomaru‐Filho M. , da Silva G. F.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To evaluate the influence of powder‐to‐gel ratio (0.19 g powder to 50 μL of gel, thick MTA Flow, and 0.06 g powder to 50 μL of gel, fluid MTA Flow) on biocompatibility of MTA Flow (Ultradent Products Inc., South Jordan, UT, USA, lot: 2015122901) and compare it with Biodentine (Septodont Inc., Saint‐Maur‐des‐Fossés, France, lot: B18542A).

Methodology

The materials were manipulated and inserted into polyethylene tubes for implantation in twenty rats. After 7, 15, 30 and 60 days, the specimens were removed and embedded in paraffin. Haematoxylin and eosin sections were used to count the number of inflammatory cells (IC) and fibroblasts mm−2 (Fb). In the Masson's trichrome‐stained sections, the fibrous capsule thickness was measured; picrosirius red‐stained sections were used for birefringent collagen quantification. The data were submitted to two‐way ANOVA and Tukey test (P ≤ 0.05).

Results

A significantly lower number of IC and consequently higher number of Fb were observed in the capsules adjacent to thick MTA Flow at all periods, in comparison with other materials (P ≤ 0.05). At 60 days, the quantity of birefringent collagen was significantly greater in the tissue in contact with thick MTA Flow, when compared with fluid MTA Flow and Biodentine.

Conclusions

Although thick MTA Flow induced a less intense inflammatory response, all evaluated materials are biocompatible because they allowed regression of this process after 60 days.
Fabric impregnated with TiO2 gel with self‐cleaning property
Authors: Peter Anca , Mihaly‐Cozmuta Anca , Nicula Camelia , Mihaly‐Cozmuta Leonard , Vulpoi Adriana , Baia Lucian
Published: July 2018

Cotton fabric decorated with TiO2 synthesized by sol‐gel approach was investigated as a self‐cleaning material depending on the TiO2 loading (1.5 wt% in the case of single layered fabric and 3 wt% in the case of double layered). The materials were investigated by SEM, EDX, XRD, FTIR, and photoactivity. The self‐cleaning property was established by determining the amount of the coated dust, the elemental composition, the carbon content, the opacity, and the water contact angle. The self‐cleaning property of the impregnated fabric was accentuated by TiO2 loading. The dust deposited on the single layer fabric stored inside was 3.8 wt% lower than on the nonimpregnated fabric and that deposited on double layer fabric, respectively, was reduced by 9.1 wt%. The decrease in the deposited dust was more accentuated for the samples stored outside (4.2 wt% for the single layer fabric and 16 wt% for the double layer fabric, as compared with the nonimpregnated textile).
Morphology, growth rate, and thickness of the nail plate during the pregnancy
Authors: Altan Ferhatoğlu Zeynep , Göktay Fatih , Yaşar Şirin , Aytekin Sema
Published: July 2018

Pregnancy causes some physiological skin changes, such as hyperpigmentation and striae gravidarum. Thickening of scalp hair and a prolonged anagen phase are also known to occur during pregnancy. However, a limited number of studies have been conducted on the effect of pregnancy on the nails. We aimed to investigate the effect of pregnancy on the morphology of the nail plate, specifically its growth rate and thickness. Pregnant women and a control group consisting of healthy female volunteers were included in the study. The distance from the apical point of the lunula to the midpoint of the free edge of the nail plate of the the thumb was measured with digital calipers. The measurement was repeated during the control visits and recorded in millimeters per day. The thickness of the nail plate of the thumb was measured at the midpoint of the free edge of the nail plate. A dermatological examination of the fingernails was performed for both groups. A survey was also conducted to identify any changes that occurred in the nails during pregnancy. The mean growth rate of the nail plate in pregnant women was 0.1 ± 0.05 mm/day, and in the control group it was 0.09 ± 0.05 mm/day. There was no statistically significant difference between the pregnant and control groups regarding the growth rate of the nail plate (P = 0.438). The mean thickness of the nail plate in pregnant women was 0.87 ± 0.19 mm, and in the control group it was 0.75 ± 0.17 mm. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to nail plate thickness (P < 0.001). A dermatological examination of the fingernails in the two groups did not reveal any statistically significant differences with respect to the nail findings. We determined in our study that pregnancy did not affect the growth rate and the morphology of the nails but increased the thickness of the nail plates.
The effect of acid‐deamidated wheat gluten on the sensory profile and consumer acceptance of ice cream
Authors: He Wenmeng , Gasmalla Mohammed Abdalbasit A. , Yang Ruijin , Zhao Wei
Published: July 2018

The effect of wheat gluten (WG) modified by acetic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid on sensory profile and consumer acceptance of ice cream was examined. A sensory profile of ice cream including six flavours and six textures descriptors was developed by quantitative descriptive analysis. Principal component analysis and confidence ellipse analysis results indicated that ice cream C2 (substitution of 20% of skim milk powder with citric acid‐deamidated WG) was the most similar to ice cream control (Ctrl) (without acid‐deamidated WG). Multiple factor analysis proved that physical viscosity and overrun properties were key factors affected the sensory texture properties of ice cream samples. External preference mapping indicated that consumer acceptance of Ctrl and C2 was the highest, and the inducing factors were ‘sweetness’, ‘dairy flavour’, ‘fat feel’, ‘meltdown’ and ‘density’ attributes. The C2 ice cream was suggested as a prototype for further development of ice cream with citric acid‐deamidated WG.
Evaluating the analytical performance of four new coagulation assays for the measurement of fibrinogen, D‐dimer and thrombin time
Authors: Kitchen Steve , Geisen Ulrich , Kappelmayer Janos , Quehenberger Peter , Lowe Anna , Jones Robert , Miles Gabrielle , Boehm Jana G. , Rozsnyai Gergely
Published: July 2018

Introduction

New laboratory methods to measure haemostatic function require careful assessment before routine use. We evaluated the analytical performance of four new coagulation assays for the measurement of fibrinogen by Clauss assay, prothrombin time‐derived fibrinogen, thrombin time and D‐dimer levels.

Methods

The four assays were evaluated on the cobas t 711 and cobas t 511 analysers at four centres in Europe. Analytical performance and method comparisons with other commercially available assays were performed according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines (EP09‐A3, EP05‐A3) using residual anonymized human sodium citrate (3.2% [0.109M]) plasma samples. Lot‐to‐lot variability and the equivalency of each assay on the cobas t 711 and cobas t 511 analysers were also assessed.

Results

Overall, coefficients of variance were ≤4.1% and ≤8.6% for within‐run precision and total reproducibility, respectively. Method comparison experiments showed good or acceptable agreement for each assay compared with their respective comparator method, and equivalency was demonstrated for the two cobas t platforms (Pearson's correlation coefficient ≥0.991). A high level of consistency was observed between lots for all four assays (Pearson's correlation coefficient ≥0.994).

Conclusion

This multicentre study demonstrates excellent analytical performance for four new coagulation assays on the cobas t 711 and cobas t 511 analysers.
Mitigating heat and chilling stress by adjusting the sowing date of maize in the North China Plain
Authors: Tian Beijing , Zhu Jincheng , Nie Yanshun , Xu Cailong , Meng Qingfeng , Wang Pu
Published: July 2018

The North China Plain (NCP) is one of the major areas of cereal production, and in recent years its maize (Zea mays L.) production has been influenced by both heat and chilling stresses. Adjusting the sowing date is an effective measure for mitigating these stresses. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. We performed a 5‐year field experiment to determine how the sowing date mitigated heat and chilling stresses at Wuqiao Experimental Station in the NCP with three treatments: early sowing (ES), middle sowing (MS), and late sowing (LS). In all 5 years, higher grain yields were observed in the MS (averaged 11.7 Mg/ha) and LS (averaged 11.4Mg/ha) treatments compared with the ES (averaged 10.9Mg/ha) treatment. The lower yield in ES treatment mainly resulted from high temperature 5 days pre‐silking and 5 days post‐silking (>31.8°C). In 2015 and 2016, the lower grain yield in LS (11.4Mg/ha in 2015 and 11.2Mg/ha in 2016) treatment compared with MS (12.1Mg/ha in 2015 and 11.9Mg/ha in 2016) was mainly because the minimum temperature was <13.0°C 5 days before maturity or <13.6°C 10 days before maturity. Long‐term weather data further verified middle sowing would be appropriate in a changing climate. Therefore, we can conclude that sowing date manipulation constitutes a useful method for mitigating heat and chilling stresses for maize production.
Reducing gender identity bias through imagined intergroup contact
Authors: Moss‐Racusin Corinne A. , Rabasco Helena
Published: July 2018

Transgender individuals face high levels of stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, and violence. However, there is a paucity of research (particularly experimental work) investigating the magnitude of gender identity bias (GIB) targeting transgender individuals, as well as interventions designed to ameliorate it. To address this gap, we conducted experimental investigations of reactions to identical, highly qualified men or women job applicants described as either transgender or cisgender (Experiments 1a, 1b), and tested the efficacy of an imagined intergroup contact (IIC) intervention (relative to a control condition) in ameliorating GIB against transgender women (Experiment 2). As expected, all applicants were perceived as equally highly competent, adding to the literature suggesting that clearly demonstrating excellent qualifications can prevent biased judgments of candidate competence. However, revealing GIB, transgender men and women were rated as less likeable and hirable than the identical cisgender applicants, despite the fact that they were viewed as equally competent (Experiments 1a, 1b). Providing additional evidence of GIB, in the absence of IIC, participants rated a transgender female applicant as less likeable and hirable than the identical cisgender applicant, and also reported less self‐other overlap and perspective taking for the transgender applicant (Experiment 2). However, these target gender identity differences were reduced (for likeability) or fully eliminated (for the remaining outcomes) in the IIC condition. Put another way, while reactions to the cisgender applicant were unaffected by intervention condition, IIC elevated perceptions of the transgender applicant, suggesting that it may function as an effective GIB intervention.
Field comparison of oviposition substrates used in ovitraps for Aedes aegypti surveillance in Salta, Argentina
Authors: Chanampa Mariana , Gil José F. , Aparicio Juan P. , Castillo Paola , Mangudo Carolina , Copa Griselda N. , Gleiser Raquel M.
Published: July 2018

Aedes aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae) is a mosquito broadly found in tropical and temperate areas of the world. It is the main vector of dengue, chikungunya, zika and yellow fever (urban cycle), among other viruses. Aedes aegypti immatures develop in water holding containers, and frequently use artificial containers in urban settings as larval habitat. Ovitraps are artificial oviposition sites, a tool developed for mosquito population surveillance and to assess effectiveness of control measures. The preference for different oviposition substrate materials was assessed in the field, in two localities of Salta province, northern Argentina, where dengue outbreaks are frequent. The proportion of positive traps did not differ between oviposition substrates. However, higher numbers of eggs were laid in cotton fabric and velour paper, which were better than wooden paddle and blotting paper if the aim was to maximize the numbers of eggs collected. The results also evidenced that substrate preference for oviposition did not differ between geographic regions.
The Oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis learns to avoid an odorant associated with a toxin in food
Authors: Liu Jia‐li , Chen Hui‐ling , Yu Jin‐xin , Zeng Xin‐nian
Published: July 2018

To adapt to the environment, it is important for insects to learn and evaluate food quality to avoid toxins in food. Currently, attractants are widely used for pest control, as they are environmentally friendly pesticides. Learning to associate an attractive odor with a toxin in food may influence insect behaviour in response to the attractant, thus affecting its application. In this study, we found that Bactrocera dorsalis, a serious pest of fruits and vegetables, can learn to associate a male lure compound, methyl eugenol (ME), with a sucrose solution contaminated with N,N‐diethyl‐3‐methyl benzoyl amide (DEET), a common insect repellent and decrease its proboscis extension response (PER) elicited by ME. Learning with DEET depends on its concentration, and flies exhibited significant aversive memory formation when high concentrations were used. Aversive‐DEET memory formed with 0.6% DEET persisted for at least 24 hr. We also found that aversive memory formed during training could be transferred to a behavioural response in an operant context.
Floral resources to enhance the potential of the parasitoid Aphidius colemani for biological control of the aphid Myzus persicae
Authors: Jado Rana Hasan , Araj Salah‐Eddin , Abu‐Irmaileh Barakat , Shields Morgan W. , Wratten Steve D.
Published: July 2018

Flowering plants have been widely used to enhance biological control. However, this approach has been limited to some extent by the lack of suitable flowering plant species of wide applicability, particularly for global pests. A key example is the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (GPA). It is commonly attacked by the polyphagous koinobiont aphidiidae, Aphidius colemani, which is also of global occurrence. Here, eight flowering plants were evaluated for the potential enhancement of GPA biological control using A. colemani under laboratory conditions. These included buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), alyssum (Lobularia maritima), white rocket (Diplotaxis erucoides.), wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), wild marjoram (Origanum vulgare), thyme (Origanum marjorana) and pepper mint (Mentha piperita). The effects of access to these flowers on the longevity (days), potential fecundity (number of dissected eggs) and parasitism rate for A. colemani compared with the control treatment (water) were studied. Longevity of A. colemani which had access to buckwheat was 4–5 times longer than the control and 2–3 times longer than it was in the other plant treatments; the latter did not differ significantly between each other. Potential fecundity of A. colemani was the highest when it had been provided with buckwheat flowers. Exposing A. colemani to flowering plants for longer time intervals (12 hr and 24 hr) increased the number of eggs produced compared with 6 hr. The number of parasitized aphids/female A. colemani with buckwheat flowers was the highest of all treatments; it ranged from 14 in the control to 219 with buckwheat. Further studies should be carried out under field conditions to determine the effect of a range of flowering plants on A. colemani. For example, although buckwheat was highly effective, in many climates it may be a useful component in mixtures comprising other, more robust species.
The role of neurotensin in vulnerability for self‐injurious behaviour: studies in a rodent model
Authors: Muehlmann A. M. , Wolfman S. L. , Devine D. P.
Published: July 2018

Background

Self‐injurious behaviour is a debilitating characteristic that is commonly expressed in people with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, but the neurobiological basis of this maladaptive behaviour is not understood. Abnormal dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission has been implicated, especially in relation to basal ganglia and mesocorticolimbic circuits. As neurotensin is an important modulator of dopamine and glutamate in these circuits, we investigated its potential role in vulnerability for self‐injury, using the pemoline model in rats.

Methods

Male Long‐Evans rats were injected once daily with the psychostimulant pemoline or peanut oil vehicle on each of five consecutive days. Self‐injury was quantified by measuring the area of injuries for each rat on each day of the experiment. Each brain was harvested on the sixth day, and the striatum and ventral tegmentum were dissected. Neurotensin‐like immunoreactivity was quantified by radioimmunoassay from the dissected brain regions of some of the rats. Membrane and intracellular neurotensin receptor NTS1 were assayed from the striata of the remaining pemoline‐treated or vehicle‐treated rats by Western blot. In an additional experiment, male Long‐Evans rats were treated with daily injections of vehicle or pemoline, and the NTS1 neurotensin receptor agonist PD149163 or the NTS1 receptor antagonist SR48692 (or respective vehicle solutions) was co‐administered twice daily throughout the pemoline treatment regimen. The areas of injured tissue were measured, and the duration of self‐injurious oral contact was quantified by video‐recorded time samples throughout each day.

Results

Striatal neurotensin immunoreactivity was found to be significantly higher in pemoline‐treated than in vehicle‐treated rats. Moreover, both membrane‐bound and intracellular levels of NTS1 receptor were significantly higher in the striata of pemoline‐treated rats than in the striata of the vehicle‐treated controls. When the NTS1 receptor agonist PD149163 was co‐administered during the pemoline treatment regimen, it prolonged the daily durations of self‐injurious oral contact and increased the severity of the injuries in the self‐injurious rats. Conversely, co‐administration of the NTS1 receptor antagonist SR48692 diminished the daily durations of self‐injurious oral contact and decreased the severity of the injuries.

Conclusions

The elevation of striatal neurotensin immunoreactivity during pemoline treatment, coupled with the effects of the NTS1 agonist and antagonist, suggests that neurotensin transmission in the striatum may be an important modulator of self‐injurious behaviour in the pemoline model. Overall, the convergence of the behavioural and biochemical findings suggests that neurotensin signalling could be an important target for pharmacotherapeutic interventions for self‐injurious behaviour.
Anatomy of the forelimb musculature and ligaments ofPsittacus erithacus(Aves: Psittaciformes)
Authors: Razmadze Daria , Panyutina Aleksandra A. , Zelenkov Nikita V.
Published: July 2018

Parrots (order Psittaciformes) are a rather homogeneous group of birds that can be easily distinguished by the notably modified morphology of the skull and hindlimb. Detailed description of the forelimb morphology in these birds has never been provided, though parrots are often used as model objects in flight studies. Parrots are also considered the closest living relatives of the perching birds (Passeriformes), and thus knowledge of the wing morphology in Psittaciformes is important for understanding the evolution of the locomotor apparatus on the way to the most speciose group of birds. Here we provide a comprehensive illustrated description of the wing morphology (musculature and ligaments) of the African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) and compare it with several closely related taxa of the high clade Eufalconimorphae and more distantly related outgroups (based on personal dissections and literature data). We note a general similarity of the wing musculature betweenP. erithacusand Falconidae. A number of features common with the outgroup Columbidae supports a generally plesiomorphic structure of the forelimb in parrots as compared with the Passeriformes. Nevertheless, the wing of the Psittaciformes displays a series of structural (likely autapomorphic) modifications, which can be explained in terms of adaptations for flight with vertical body. An analysis of the anatomical data for parrots (ratio of wing elevators and highly unusual development of the M. supracoracoideus), which is based on the current experiment‐based knowledge of the flapping flight in birds, allows us to hypothesize that parrots are able to produce useful aerodynamic force during the upstroke, which is also known for pigeons and hummingbirds. This supposed ability of vertical flight and the zygodactyl foot together link the origin of parrots with the dense (likely tropical) forests.
2B‐Alert App: A mobile application for real‐time individualized prediction of alertness
Authors: Reifman Jaques , Ramakrishnan Sridhar , Liu Jianbo , Kapela Adam , Doty Tracy J. , Balkin Thomas J. , Kumar Kamal , Khitrov Maxim Y.
Published: July 2018

Knowing how an individual responds to sleep deprivation is a requirement for developing personalized fatigue management strategies. Here we describe and validate the 2B‐Alert App, the first mobile application that progressively learns an individual’s trait‐like response to sleep deprivation in real time, to generate increasingly more accurate individualized predictions of alertness. We incorporated a Bayesian learning algorithm within the validated Unified Model of Performance to automatically and gradually adapt the model parameters to an individual after each psychomotor vigilance test. We implemented the resulting model and the psychomotor vigilance test as a smartphone application (2B‐Alert App), and prospectively validated its performance in a 62‐hr total sleep deprivation study in which 21 participants used the app to perform psychomotor vigilance tests every 3 hr and obtain real‐time individualized predictions after each test. The temporal profiles of reaction times on the app‐conducted psychomotor vigilance tests were well correlated with and as sensitive as those obtained with a previously characterized psychomotor vigilance test device. The app progressively learned each individual’s trait‐like response to sleep deprivation throughout the study, yielding increasingly more accurate predictions of alertness for the last 24 hr of total sleep deprivation as the number of psychomotor vigilance tests increased. After only 12 psychomotor vigilance tests, the accuracy of the model predictions was comparable to the peak accuracy obtained using all psychomotor vigilance tests. With the ability to make real‐time individualized predictions of the effects of sleep deprivation on future alertness, the 2B‐Alert App can be used to tailor personalized fatigue management strategies, facilitating self‐management of alertness and safety in operational and non‐operational settings.
Treatment outcomes in patients with proven/probable vs possible invasive mould disease in a phase III trial comparing isavuconazole vs voriconazole
Authors: Maertens Johan , Selleslag Dominik , Heinz Werner J. , Saulay Mikael , Rahav Galia , Giladi Michael , Aoun Mickael , Kovanda Laura , Kaufhold Achim , Engelhardt Marc , Cornely Oliver A. , Herbrecht Raoul , Ullmann Andrew J.
Published: July 2018

Treatment outcomes in patients with proven/probable vs possible invasive mould disease (IMD; 2008 European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group [EORTC/MSG] criteria) needed further assessment. The Phase III SECURE trial compared isavuconazole vs voriconazole for treatment of IMD. This post hoc analysis assessed all‐cause mortality (ACM) through day 42 (primary endpoint) and day 84, overall and clinical success at end of treatment (EOT), and drug‐related treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) in subgroups with proven/probable or possible IMD. Of 516 randomised patients, 304 (58.9%) had proven/probable IMD and 164 (31.8%) had possible IMD as per EORTC/MSG criteria; 48 did not have IMD. Across treatment groups, day 42 and day 84 ACM were numerically lower for possible vs proven/probable IMD (day 42: 17.1% vs 21.1%; P = 0.3, day 84: 26.2% vs 32.6%; P = 0.15). Overall and clinical success at EOT were significantly higher for possible IMD compared with proven/probable IMD (48.2% vs 36.2%; P = 0.01, 75.0% vs 63.1%; P = 0.01 respectively). Fewer drug‐related TEAEs were reported with isavuconazole compared with voriconazole in patients with either proven/probable or possible IMD. Compared with patients with proven/probable IMD, those with possible IMD demonstrated higher overall and clinical success rates, supporting early initiation of antifungal treatment.
Human energy expenditure: advances in organ‐tissue prediction models
Authors: Heymsfield S. B. , Peterson C. M. , Bourgeois B. , Thomas D. M. , Gallagher D. , Strauss B. , Müller M. J. , Bosy‐Westphal A.
Published: July 2018

Humans expend energy at rest (REE), and this major energy exchange component is now usually estimated using statistical equations that include weight and other predictor variables. While these formulas are useful in evaluating an individual's or group's REE, an important gap remains: available statistical models are inadequate for explaining underlying organ‐specific and tissue‐specific mechanisms accounting for resting heat production. The lack of such systems level REE prediction models leaves many research questions unanswered. A potential approach that can fill this gap began with investigators who first showed in animals and later in humans that REE reflects the summated heat production rates of individual organs and tissues. Today, using advanced imaging technologies, REE can be accurately estimated from the measured in vivo mass of 10 organ‐tissue mass components combined with their respective mass‐specific metabolic rates. This review examines the next frontier of energy expenditure models and discusses how organ‐tissue models have the potential not only to better predict REE but also to provide insights into how perturbations in organ mass lead to structure–function changes across other interacting organ systems. The introductory ideas advanced in this review provide a framework for future human energy expenditure modelling research.
Volatile anesthesia for a child with LPIN1 gene mutation and recurrent rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Burstal Richard J.
Published: July 2018

We report the case of a boy with LPIN1 gene mutation presenting for adenotonsillectomy who was successfully managed with preoperative saline and glucose infusion followed by balanced anesthesia including sevoflurane. The anesthetic planning is described as there is no modern literature to guide the perioperative management of these children.
Impact of improved maize varieties on food security in Eastern Zambia: A doubly robust analysis
Authors: Manda Julius , Gardebroek Cornelis , Kuntashula Elias , Alene Arega D.
Published: July 2018

This study investigates the impact of improved maize varieties on household food security in eastern Zambia using household survey data from a sample of over 800 rural households. Since treatment effect estimates are often prone to misspecification in either the treatment or outcome equation, we use the doubly robust inverse probability weighted regression adjustment method, complemented with propensity score matching on six different food security measures to obtain reliable impact estimates. Generally, we find a positive impact of improved maize adoption on food security across the two econometric approaches. Maize being the most important food staple in Zambia has a great bearing on the food security status of farm households. It is therefore imperative that a conducive environment is created that promotes the adoption of maize yield improving technologies.
The Social Function of Autobiographical Stories in the Personal and Virtual World: An Initial Investigation
Authors: Alea Nicole , Bluck Susan , Mroz Emily L. , Edwards Zanique
Published: July 2018

Receiving another's autobiographical story may serve to elicit feelings of liking and empathy for the story sharer. Research has mostly examined social functions of autobiographical stories for in‐person communications. The current experiment (N = 60) examined whether levels of liking, closeness, and empathy felt for a stranger (female confederate) after receiving her story depended on if (a) the story was received in‐person or through instant message (IM), and (b) the story was positive or negative. Liking and having empathy for the stranger was higher in the in‐person conditions compared to IM conditions. This effect was mediated by how engaged participants were with the story. Participants liked the stranger more after receiving the positive autobiographical story, but they felt more empathy toward her after the negative autobiographical story. The discussion considers parameters of the communication platform and people's perceptions of stories as explanations for the results. Limitations are considered.
Pex19 is involved in importing dually targeted tail‐anchored proteins to both mitochondria and peroxisomes
Authors: Cichocki Bogdan A. , Krumpe Katrin , Vitali Daniela G. , Rapaport Doron
Published: July 2018

Tail‐anchored (TA) proteins are embedded into their corresponding membrane via a single transmembrane segment at their C‐terminus whereas the majority of the protein is facing the cytosol. So far, cellular factors that mediate the integration of such proteins into the mitochondrial outer membrane were not found. Using budding yeast as a model system, we identified the cytosolic Hsp70 chaperone Ssa1 and the peroxisome import factor Pex19 as import mediators for a subset of mitochondrial TA proteins. Accordingly, deletion of PEX19 results in: (1) growth defect under respiration conditions, (2) alteration in mitochondrial morphology, (3) reduced steady‐state levels of the mitochondrial TA proteins Fis1 and Gem1, and (4) hampered in organello import of the TA proteins Fis1 and Gem1. Furthermore, recombinant Pex19 can bind directly the TA proteins Fis1 and Gem1. Collectively, this work identified the first factors that are involved in the biogenesis of mitochondrial TA proteins and uncovered an unexpected function of Pex19.
APPLYING IMAGE PROCESSING TOOLS TO ANALYZE THE SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS OF NANO ALUMINA (NANOAL2O3) AND NANO TITANIUM (NANOTIO2)
Authors: Hameed Abdul-Adheem Zaily , Al-Ani Muzhir Shaban , Anter Faik Hammad
Published: July 2018

Composite material is a material constructed of two or more materials that leads with different physical or chemical characteristics. Nano Alumina (NANO AL2O3) and Nano Titanium (NANO TIO2) are normally used to construct the composite material. The fundamental of texture analysis seeks to derive a general efficient and compact quantitative description of textures so that various mathematical operations can be used to achieve, compare and transform of texture characteristics. Many mechanical and physical methods are used to measure the surface characteristics. Some of these methods suffered from accurate description of material surface. In addition, the details of material surface are not clear via applying the traditional methods for surface analyzing. This work is concentrated on combining many functions and steps of image processing method to understand and analyze the surface characteristics of the composite material (Nano Alumina and Nano Titanium). The implemented approach including many steps: image enhancement, texture analysis, edge detection and contour analysis. This approach leads to explain, extract, analyze and evaluate the characteristics of surface texture of the composite material via measuring of mean values for original gray image, adjusted gray image, equalized gray image and adapted gray image. The average mean values of Nano Alumina are 103, 110, 128 and 134 for the applied method respectively. The average mean values of Nano titanium are 120, 123, 125 and 129 respectively. As a conclusion the implemented approach of surface texture analysis indicated that there is a significant improvement at the surface characteristics for both equalization and adaptive methods compared with the adjustment method.
SUSTAINABLE APPROACH OF RECYCLING PALM OIL MILL EFFLUENT (POME) USING INTEGRATED BIOFILM/MEMBRANE FILTRATION SYSTEM FOR INTERNAL PLANT USAGE
Authors: Sajjad Al-Amshawee , Haan Teow Yeit , Mohammad Hussain Abdul Wahab
Published: July 2018

Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is a massive problem to the environment, primarily waterway as it contains a considerable range of pollutants. Therefore, while enjoying the high revenue from palm oil industry, the palm oil industry responsibility towards the POME treatment must be taken into consideration. Along with the development of sustainable engineering concept, many researchers have focused on inventing a system that does not compromise the natural environment or the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using integrated biofilm treatment/membrane filtration process in producing recyclable and reusable water by manipulating the biofilm carrier type and the biofilm treatment HRT. The combined system of biofilm and membrane had delivered 98.6, 99.98, 97.5, 100, and 99.87% of COD, Turbidity, MLSS, TSS, and ammoniacal nitrogen removal, respectively. The produced permeate from aerobic POME remediation by biofilm/ membrane filtration system meets the III and IV class of the National Water Quality standards of Malaysia for water supply (Extensive treatment is required), and fishery (livestock drinking) purpose.
Sensitivity analysis for a within-human-host immuno-pathogenesis dynamics of Plasmodium falciparum parasites
Authors: Woldegerima Woldegebriel A. , Teboh-Ewungkem Miranda I. , Ngwa Gideon A.
Published: July 2018

Sensitivity analysis has become increasingly useful in many fields of engineering and sciences. Researchers use sensitivity and uncertainty analysis in the mathematical modelling of biological phenomena because of its value in identifying essential parameters for model's output. Moreover, it can help in the process of experimental analysis, model order reduction, parameter estimation, decision making or development of recommendations for decision makers. Here, we demonstrate the use of local sensitivity analysis to understand the influence of different parameters on a threshold parameter, R_0^I, resulting from the analysis of a within human-host model for the dynamics of malaria parasites. %We highlight the different methods used in sensitivity analysis.Our results reveal that the obtained R_0^I is most sensitive to the infection rate of healthy red blood cells (RBCs) by merozoites, the average number of merozoites released per bursting parasitized RBCs, the proportion of parasitized RBCs that continue asexual reproduction and the per capita natural death rate of merozoites.
Rethinking the Classroom
Authors: Kosowatz John
Published: July 2018

This article discusses that to better engage students, professors are integrating active learning methods into their biomedical classes. The goal is for students to develop entrepreneurial skills to aid students in thinking outside the box, using their developing technical skills to develop innovative solutions. Engineering programs are bringing the entrepreneurial mindset to younger students, often based on the definition used by the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network. Sponsored by the Kern Family Foundation, KEEN is a collaboration of 31 U.S. universities with the goal of supporting entrepreneurial skills in undergraduate engineering and technical students. KEEN says the entrepreneurial mindset has three critical components: curiosity, connections, and creating value. At Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York, mechanical engineering assistant professor Laurel Kuxhaus is working with a KEEN grant to integrate active learning into sophomore-level studies.
Various Sequence Types of Enterobacteriaceae Isolated from Commercial Chicken Farms in China and Carrying the
bla
NDM-5
Gene
Authors: Xiang Rong , Zhang An-Yun , Ye Xiao-Lan , Kang Zhuang-Zhuang , Lei Chang-Wei , Wang Hong-Ning
Published: July 2018

A total of 108 meropenem-resistant
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates were obtained from 1,658 rectal swabs collected from 15 unrelated commercial chicken farms in China between 2014 and 2016. These samples yielded 16
Escherichia coli
and 2
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolates of diverse sequence types carrying a
bla
NDM-5
-bearing IncX3 plasmid.
Cross Talk among Transporters of the Phosphoenolpyruvate-Dependent Phosphotransferase System in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Morabbi Heravi Kambiz , Altenbuchner Josef
Published: July 2018

The phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system (PTS) not only is a carbohydrate uptake system in
B. subtilis
but also plays an important role in sensing the nutrient fluctuation in the medium. This sensing system enables the cells to respond to these fluctuations properly. The PTS transporters have a pivotal role in this sensing system since they are carbohydrate specific. In this study, we tried to understand the interactions among these transporters which revealed the cross talk among PTSs. Three PTS proteins, namely, PtsG (the specific transporter of glucose), GamP (the specific transporter of glucosamine), and PtsA (a cytoplasmic single-domain EIIA protein) were shown to play the major role in the interaction among the PTSs.
Inosine Triphosphate Pyrophosphatase Dephosphorylates Ribavirin Triphosphate and Reduced Enzymatic Activity Potentiates Mutagenesis in Hepatitis C Virus
Authors: Nyström Kristina , Wanrooij Paulina H. , Waldenström Jesper , Adamek Ludmila , Brunet Sofia , Said Joanna , Nilsson Staffan , Wind-Rotolo Megan , Hellstrand Kristoffer , Norder Helene , Tang Ka-Wei , Lagging Martin
Published: July 2018

This study highlights the multiple modes of action of ribavirin, including depletion of intracellular GTP and increased hepatitis C virus mutagenesis. In cell culture, reduced ITP pyrophosphatase (ITPase) enzyme activity affected the intracellular concentrations of ribavirin triphosphate (RTP) and augmented the impact of ribavirin on the mutation rate and virus production. Additionally, our results imply that RTP, similar to ITP, a naturally occurring substrate of ITPase, is dephosphorylated
in vitro
by ITPase.
International research and guidelines on post-tuberculosis chronic lung disorders: a systematic scoping review
Authors: van Kampen Sanne C , Wanner Amanda , Edwards Miles , Harries Anthony D , Kirenga Bruce J , Chakaya Jeremiah , Jones Rupert
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is an important risk factor for chronic respiratory disease due to residual lung damage. Yet, the WHO End TB strategy does not mention post-TB chronic lung disorders (PTBLDs) and programmatic interventions to address PTBLD are lacking. This study assessed the scope of current guidelines and evidence on PTBLD to inform policy and research action.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Eight databases (TRIP, International Guideline Library, MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Global Health, Cochrane Library) were searched for records on PTBLD published between 1 January 1990 and 1 December 2017. Non-English records, case series, conference abstracts and letters to editors were excluded. Data were extracted and charted on publication year, location, PTBLD condition(s) and main study outcome.

Results

A total of 212 guidelines and 3661 articles were retrieved. After screening, only three international TB guidelines mentioned TB sequelae, but none described how to identify or manage the condition. A total of 156 articles addressed PTBLD: 54 (35%) mentioned unspecified TB sequelae; 47 (30%) specific post-TB conditions including aspergillosis, bronchial stenosis or bronchiectasis; 52 (33%) post-TB obstructive disorders or lung function impairment; and 20 (13%) post-TB respiratory symptoms or chest X-ray abnormalities. The first two groups mostly assessed surgery or ventilation techniques for patient management, while the last two groups typically assessed prevalence or predictors of disease.

Conclusion

This is the first review to provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature on PTBLD. The scope of evidence around the burden of PTBLD warrants inclusion and recognition of the problem in international TB guidelines. Research is now needed on early detection of PTBLD and patient management options that are suitable for high-burden TB countries.