bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ASM Curriculum Guidelines for Undergraduate Microbiology: A Case Study of the Advocacy Role of Societies in Reform Efforts
Authors: Horak Rachel E. A. , Merkel Susan , Chang Amy
Published: May 2015

A number of national reports, including
Vision and Change in Undergraduate Biology Education: A Call to Action
, have called for drastic changes in how undergraduate biology is taught. To that end, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) has developed new Curriculum Guidelines for undergraduate microbiology that outline a comprehensive curriculum for any undergraduate introductory microbiology course or program of study. Designed to foster enduring understanding of core microbiology concepts, the Guidelines work synergistically with backwards course design to focus teaching on student-centered goals and priorities. In order to qualitatively assess how the ASM Curriculum Guidelines are used by educators and learn more about the needs of microbiology educators, the ASM Education Board distributed two surveys to the ASM education community. In this report, we discuss the results of these surveys (353 responses). We found that the ASM Curriculum Guidelines are being implemented in many different types of courses at all undergraduate levels. Educators indicated that the ASM Curriculum Guidelines were very helpful when planning courses and assessments. We discuss some specific ways in which the ASM Curriculum Guidelines have been used in undergraduate classrooms. The survey identified some barriers that microbiology educators faced when trying to adopt the ASM Curriculum Guidelines, including lack of time, lack of financial resources, and lack of supporting resources. Given the self-reported challenges to implementing the ASM Curriculum Guidelines in undergraduate classrooms, we identify here some activities related to the ASM Curriculum Guidelines that the ASM Education Board has initiated to assist educators in the implementation process.
New Players in the Toxin Field: Polymorphic Toxin Systems in Bacteria
Authors: Jamet Anne , Nassif Xavier
Published: May 2015

Bacteria have evolved numerous strategies to increase their competitiveness and fight against each other. Indeed, a large arsenal of antibacterial weapons is available in order to inhibit the proliferation of competitor cells. Polymorphic toxin systems (PTS), recently identified by bioinformatics in all major bacterial lineages, correspond to such a system primarily involved in conflict between related bacterial strains. They are typically composed of a secreted multidomain toxin, a protective immunity protein, and multiple cassettes encoding alternative toxic domains. The C-terminal domains of polymorphic toxins carry the toxic activity, whereas the N-terminal domains are related to the trafficking mode.
In silico
analysis of PTS identified over 150 distinct toxin domains, including putative nuclease, deaminase, or peptidase domains. Immunity genes found immediately downstream of the toxin genes encode small proteins that protect bacteria against their own toxins or against toxins secreted by neighboring cells. PTS encompass well-known colicins and pyocins, contact-dependent growth inhibition systems which include CdiA and Rhs toxins and some effectors of type VI secretion systems. We have recently characterized the MafB toxins, a new family of PTS deployed by pathogenic
Neisseria
spp. Many other putative PTS have been identified by
in silico
predictions but have yet to be characterized experimentally. However, the high number of these systems suggests that PTS have a fundamental role in bacterial biology that is likely to extend beyond interbacterial competition.
The
Legionella
Kinase LegK2 Targets the ARP2/3 Complex To Inhibit Actin Nucleation on Phagosomes and Allow Bacterial Evasion of the Late Endocytic Pathway
Authors: Michard Céline , Sperandio Daniel , Baïlo Nathalie , Pizarro-Cerdá Javier , LeClaire Lawrence , Chadeau-Argaud Elise , Pombo-Grégoire Isabel , Hervet Eva , Vianney Anne , Gilbert Christophe , Faure Mathias , Cossart Pascale , Doublet Patricia
Published: May 2015

Legionella pneumophila
, the etiological agent of legionellosis, replicates within phagocytic cells. Crucial to biogenesis of the replicative vacuole is the Dot/Icm type 4 secretion system, which translocates a large number of effectors into the host cell cytosol. Among them is LegK2, a protein kinase that plays a key role in
Legionella
infection. Here, we identified the actin nucleator ARP2/3 complex as a target of LegK2. LegK2 phosphorylates the ARPC1B and ARP3 subunits of the ARP2/3 complex. LegK2-dependent ARP2/3 phosphorylation triggers global actin cytoskeleton remodeling in cells, and it impairs actin tail formation by
Listeria monocytogenes
, a well-known ARP2/3-dependent process. During infection, LegK2 is addressed to the
Legionella
-containing vacuole surface and inhibits actin polymerization on the phagosome, as revealed by legK2 gene inactivation. Consequently, LegK2 prevents late endosome/lysosome association with the phagosome and finally contributes to remodeling of the bacterium-containing phagosome into a replicative niche. The inhibition of actin polymerization by LegK2 and its effect on endosome trafficking are ARP2/3 dependent since it can be phenocopied by a specific chemical inhibitor of the ARP2/3 complex. Thus, LegK2-ARP2/3 interplay highlights an original mechanism of bacterial virulence with an unexpected role in local actin remodeling that allows bacteria to control vesicle trafficking in order to escape host defenses.

IMPORTANCE
Deciphering the individual contribution of each Dot/Icm type 4 secretion system substrate to the intracellular life-style of
L. pneumophila
remains the principal challenge in understanding the molecular basis of
Legionella
virulence. Our finding that LegK2 is a Dot/Icm effector that inhibits actin polymerization on the
Legionella
-containing vacuole importantly contributes to the deciphering of the molecular mechanisms evolved by
Legionella
to counteract the endocytic pathway. Indeed, our results highlight the essential role of LegK2 in preventing late endosomes from fusing with the phagosome. More generally, this work is the first demonstration of local actin remodeling as a mechanism used by bacteria to control organelle trafficking. Further, by characterizing the role of the bacterial protein kinase LegK2, we reinforce the concept that posttranslational modifications are key strategies used by pathogens to evade host cell defenses.
Adenylate Charge Regulates Sensor Kinase CheS
3
To Control Cyst Formation in Rhodospirillum centenum
Authors: He Kuang , Dragnea Vladimira , Bauer Carl E.
Published: May 2015

Rhodospirillum centenum
forms metabolically dormant cysts under unfavorable growth conditions such as desiccation or nutrient starvation. The development of cysts is tightly regulated and involves a cyst-repressing chemotaxis-like signal transduction pathway called the Che
3
signaling cascade. The Che
3
cascade is comprised of a methyl chemoreceptor (MCP
3
), receptor-methylating/demethylating proteins CheB
3
and CheR
3
, two CheW
3
linker proteins, a CheA
3
-CheY hybrid histidine kinase, and a single-domain response regulator, CheY
3
. In addition to Che-like components, the Che
3
cascade also contains a second hybrid histidine kinase, CheS
3
. Recent biochemical and genetic studies show that CheA
3
does not serve as a phosphor donor for CheY
3
; instead, CheA
3
inhibits a CheS
3
→CheY
3
two-component system by phosphorylating an inhibitory receiver domain of CheS
3
. In this study, we show that in addition to phosphorylation by CheA
3
, the phosphorylation state of CheS
3
is also regulated by the cellular energy level as quantified by the molar ratio of ATP/(ATP + ADP). A 35% decrease in cellular energy is shown to occur
in vivo
upon a nutrient downshift that gives rise to cyst formation. When this energy decline is replicated
in vitro
, the phosphorylation level of CheS
3
is reduced by ~75%. Finally, we also show that ADP-mediated reduction of CheS
3
phosphorylation is a consequence of ADP enhancing autodephosphorylation of CheS
3
.

IMPORTANCE
Upon starvation,
Rhodospirillum centenum
undergoes a developmental process that forms metabolically dormant cysts, which withstand desiccation and nutritional limitation. This study explores the role of the cellular energy state as measured by the ratio of ATP to ADP as an important regulator of cyst formation in
Rhodospirillum centenum
. We show that
R. centenum
cells experience a significant reduction in ATP during cyst formation using ATP/(ATP + ADP) as a measurement. When this
in vivo
level of energy starvation is simulated
in vitro
, CheS
3
phosphorylation is reduced by 75%. This profound reduction in CheS
3
autophosphorylation is contrasted with a much lower 25% decrease in CheA
3
phosphorylation in response to a similar downward shift in ATP/(ATP + ADP). We argue that even though adenylate energy affects all ATP-dependent enzymes to an extent, the enhanced inhibition of CheS
3
activity in response to a reduction in the ATP/(ATP + ADP) ratio likely functions as an important input signal to regulate cyst development.
Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics of Episomes among Ecologically Cohesive Bacterial Populations
Authors: Xue Hong , Cordero Otto X. , Camas Francisco M. , Trimble William , Meyer Folker , Guglielmini Julien , Rocha Eduardo P. C. , Polz Martin F.
Published: May 2015

Although plasmids and other episomes are recognized as key players in horizontal gene transfer among microbes, their diversity and dynamics among ecologically structured host populations in the wild remain poorly understood. Here, we show that natural populations of marine
Vibrionaceae
bacteria host large numbers of families of episomes, consisting of plasmids and a surprisingly high fraction of plasmid-like temperate phages. Episomes are unevenly distributed among host populations, and contrary to the notion that high-density communities in biofilms act as hot spots of gene transfer, we identified a strong bias for episomes to occur in free-living as opposed to particle-attached cells. Mapping of episomal families onto host phylogeny shows that, with the exception of all phage and a few plasmid families, most are of recent evolutionary origin and appear to have spread rapidly by horizontal transfer. Such high eco-evolutionary turnover is particularly surprising for plasmids that are, based on previously suggested categorization, putatively nontransmissible, indicating that this type of plasmid is indeed frequently transferred by currently unknown mechanisms. Finally, analysis of recent gene transfer among plasmids reveals a network of extensive exchange connecting nearly all episomes. Genes functioning in plasmid transfer and maintenance are frequently exchanged, suggesting that plasmids can be rapidly transformed from one category to another. The broad distribution of episomes among distantly related hosts and the observed promiscuous recombination patterns show how episomes can offer their hosts rapid assembly and dissemination of novel functions.

IMPORTANCE
Plasmids and other episomes are an integral part of bacterial biology in all environments, yet their study is heavily biased toward their role as vectors for antibiotic resistance genes. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of all episomes within several coexisting bacterial populations of
Vibrionaceae
from the coastal ocean and represents the largest-yet genomic survey of episomes from a single bacterial family. The host population framework allows analysis of the eco-evolutionary dynamics at unprecedented resolution, yielding several unexpected results. These include (i) discovery of novel, nonintegrative temperate phages, (ii) revision of a class of episomes, previously termed “nontransmissible,” as highly transmissible, and (iii) surprisingly high evolutionary turnover of episomes, manifest as frequent birth, spread, and loss.
Extrapulmonary tuberculosis: an unusual presentation in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Lombardi Rosa , Pelusi Serena , Airaghi Lorena , Fargion Silvia
Published: May 2015

A 50-year-old Brazilian woman was admitted to our department because of pelvic pain irradiated to the lower left limb, ipsilateral ankle swelling and progressive weight loss. Doppler ultrasound demonstrated deep venous femoropopliteal thrombosis, while a thorax–abdomen CT scan showed multiple solid hypodense pulmonary lesions, a large hypodense lesion in the iliopsoas muscles bilaterally and a complex cystoid lesion at the hepatic hilum. These findings were better characterised as active inflammatory colliquated lymph nodes by positron emission tomography and echo-guided percutaneous fine-needle aspiration of the left iliopsoas abscessual lesion finally allowed the diagnosis of tubercular infection with positive cultures forMycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex.
A mitotic cause of Whipple's triad: non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia in incurable low-grade malignancy
Authors: Lee Angela S , Twigg Stephen M
Published: May 2015

A 74-year-old man with known metastatic haemangiopericytoma presented with neuroglycopaenic symptoms of confusion and light-headedness secondary to recurrent episodes of fasting hypoglycaemia, which resolved with oral carbohydrate intake. Investigations for hypoglycaemia revealed it to be non-insulin mediated, and subsequently due to a rare paraneoplastic phenomenon termed as non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia caused by tumoural overproduction of high molecular weight insulin-like growth factor-II. Despite his underlying malignancy being incurable, directed multimodality treatment involving regular oral carbohydrate intake, glucocorticoid therapy and recombinant human growth hormone was effective in relieving symptoms of hypoglycaemia. We discuss the importance of a systematic diagnostic approach to hypoglycaemia fulfilling Whipple's triad, as specific therapies can be invaluable to improving quality of life.
The iatrogenic caecal polyp: can it be avoided?
Authors: Waterland Peter , Khan Faisal Shehzaad
Published: May 2015

A 60-year-old farmer was admitted with symptoms and signs suggestive of appendicitis. The diagnosis was confirmed at open appendicectomy where the appendix base was ligated and inverted into the caecum with a purse-string suture. Following an uneventful recovery and discharge, a barium enema identified a 2 cm filling defect in the caecal pole. A subsequent colonoscopy revealed only a tiny sessile polyp in the caecum with histology demonstrating normal colonic mucosa. This case report discusses the rare occurrence of an inverted appendix stump mimicking caecal pathology and the rationale of post-appendicectomy colonic investigation in the elderly patient.
Serotonin syndrome in a breast-fed neonate
Authors: Morris Rachel , Matthes Jean
Published: May 2015

A late preterm presented with tachypnoea, jitteriness, irritability and low grade fever. Blood gas showed a compensated metabolic acidosis. His mother was taking the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine, 60 mg/day, and he was exclusively breast-fed. The baby's serum level of fluoxetine on day 8 was within the adult therapeutic range and his symptoms were ascribed to fluoxetine toxicity. On changing to formula feeds, his symptoms resolved. SSRIs are commonly administered during pregnancy, but SSRI toxicity in infants is rarely reported. It is possible that this condition is under diagnosed or, alternatively, misdiagnosed as SSRI withdrawal in breast fed infants whose mothers are on SSRIs. There is limited research looking at serotonin excess in neonates, making case reports such as this important in our learning. Increased awareness may prompt more frequent measurements of blood levels in breast-fed infants whose mothers are on SSRIs.
A novel psychoactive substance poses a new challenge in the management of paranoid schizophrenia
Authors: Anderson Caroline , Morrell Christopher , Marchevsky David
Published: May 2015

Novel psychoactive substances (NPS), or ‘legal highs’ are becoming more commonly used as recreational substances in the UK. Their clinical effects are little known and vary considerably between substances. This case discusses a psychiatric inpatient who repeatedly used a stimulant NPS called ‘el blanco’ while on leave, precipitating relapses of his schizophrenia. The patient initially denied drug use, considering legal highs as different from drugs. The relationship between NPS use and mental state was eventually revealed on careful direct questioning. He recovered and was discharged following treatment with clozapine and education about NPS use. We suggest that specific questioning about NPS usage is added to routine psychiatric history taking and that patients using NPS should be educated about the substances’ use.
Acute liver injury associated with a newer formulation of the herbal weight loss supplement Hydroxycut
Authors: Araujo James L , Worman Howard J
Published: May 2015

Despite the widespread use of herbal and dietary supplements (HDS), serious cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported. The popular herbal weight loss supplement, Hydroxycut, has previously been implicated in acute liver injury. Since its introduction, Hydroxycut has undergone successive transformations in its formulation; yet, cases of liver injury have remained an ongoing problem. We report a case of a 41-year-old Hispanic man who developed acute hepatocellular liver injury with associated nausea, vomiting, jaundice, fatigue and asterixis attributed to the use of a newer formulation of Hydroxycut, SX-7 Clean Sensory. The patient required hospitalisation and improved with supportive therapy. Despite successive transformations in its formulation, potential liver injury appears to remain an ongoing problem with Hydroxycut. Our case illustrates the importance of obtaining a thorough medication history, including HDS, regardless of new or reformulated product marketing efforts.
The cost-effectiveness of initiating ranibizumab therapy in eyes with neovascular AMD with good vision: an economic model using real-world outcomes
Authors: Butt Thomas , Lee Aaron , Lee Cecilia , Tufail Adnan
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of immediate treatment with ranibizumab in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) with good (better than 6/12) starting visual acuity compared with current UK clinical guidance of waiting until vision falls below 6/12 to begin treatment, using real-world outcomes data.

Design

A patient-level health economic state transition model based on levels of visual acuity in the better seeing eye was constructed to simulate the costs and consequences of treating patients with nAMD with ranibizumab.

Setting

The model took the perspective of the UK National Health Service (NHS).

Participants

The model was populated with real-world outcomes and resource use from a prospective multicentre national nAMD database study containing 92 976 ranibizumab treatment episodes.

Interventions

Two treatment approaches were compared: immediate intervention with 0.5 mg ranibizumab pro re nata, PRN (on detection of nAMD) or delayed intervention (waiting until vision fell to 6/12 before beginning treatment).

Main outcome measures

Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for health states and healthcare costs were accrued for each strategy, and an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were employed to test the uncertainty of the model.

Results

Over a 2-year time horizon, based on 10 000 Monte Carlo simulations, the early treatment arm accumulated 1.59 QALYs and £8469.79 cost. The delayed treatment arm accumulated 1.35 QALYs and £7460.21 cost. The central ICER estimate was £4251.60.

Conclusions

A model based on real-world data is likely to be a realistic reflection of the health gains and resource use of ranibizumab for nAMD in the UK NHS. Initiating treatment immediately with ranibizumab PRN regimen is a cost-effective strategy compared with current guidance of initiating treatment at a level of 6/12 or worse vision.
Evidence-informed recommendations to reduce dissemination bias in clinical research: conclusions from the OPEN (Overcome failure to Publish nEgative fiNdings) project based on an international consensus meeting
Authors: Meerpohl Joerg J , Schell Lisa K , Bassler Dirk , Gallus Silvano , Kleijnen Jos , Kulig Michael , La Vecchia Carlo , Marušić Ana , Ravaud Philippe , Reis Andreas , Schmucker Christine , Strech Daniel , Urrútia Gerard , Wager Elizabeth , Antes Gerd
Published: May 2015

Background

Dissemination bias in clinical research severely impedes informed decision-making not only for healthcare professionals and patients, but also for funders, research ethics committees, regulatory bodies and other stakeholder groups that make health-related decisions. Decisions based on incomplete and biased evidence cannot only harm people, but may also have huge financial implications by wasting resources on ineffective or harmful diagnostic and therapeutic measures, and unnecessary research. Owing to involvement of multiple stakeholders, it remains easy for any single group to assign responsibility for resolving the problem to others.

Objective

To develop evidence-informed general and targeted recommendations addressing the various stakeholders involved in knowledge generation and dissemination to help overcome the problem of dissemination bias on the basis of previously collated evidence.

Methods

Based on findings from systematic reviews, document analyses and surveys, we developed general and targeted draft recommendations. During a 2-day workshop in summer 2013, these draft recommendations were discussed with external experts and key stakeholders, and refined following a rigorous and transparent methodological approach.

Results

Four general, overarching recommendations applicable to all or most stakeholder groups were formulated, addressing (1) awareness raising, (2) implementation of targeted recommendations, (3) trial registration and results posting, and (4) systematic approaches to evidence synthesis. These general recommendations are complemented and specified by 47 targeted recommendations tailored towards funding agencies, pharmaceutical and device companies, research institutions, researchers (systematic reviewers and trialists), research ethics committees, trial registries, journal editors and publishers, regulatory agencies, benefit (health technology) assessment institutions and legislators.

Conclusions

Despite various recent examples of dissemination bias and several initiatives to reduce it, the problem of dissemination bias has not been resolved. Tailored recommendations based on a comprehensive approach will hopefully help increase transparency in biomedical research by overcoming the failure to disseminate negative findings.
Exploring the role of theHNF-1αG319S polymorphism in β cell failure and youth-onset type 2 diabetes: Lessons from MODY andHnf-1α-deficient animal models
Authors: Jonasson Michael E. , Wicklow Brandy A. , Sellers Elizabeth A.C. , Dolinsky Vernon W. , Doucette Christine A.
Published: May 2015

The prevalence of youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D) is rapidly increasing worldwide, disproportionately affecting Indigenous youth with Oji-Cree heritage from central Canada. Candidate gene screening has uncovered a novel and private polymorphism in the Oji-Cree population in the hepatocyte nuclear factor-1 alpha (HNF-1α) gene, where a highly conserved glycine residue at position 319 is changed to a serine (termed HNF-1αG319S or simply G319S). Oji-Cree youth who carry one or two copies of the “S-allele” present at diagnosis with less obesity, reduced indicators of insulin resistance, and lower plasma insulin levels at diagnosis, suggestive of a primary defect in the insulin-secreting β cells. Few studies on the impact of the HNF-1αG319S variant on β cell function have been performed to date; however, much can be learned from other clinical phenotypes of HNF-1α-deficiency, including HNF-1α mutations that cause maturity-onset diabetes of the young 3 (MODY3). In addition, evaluation of Hnf-1α-deficient murine models reveals that HNF-1α plays a central role in the regulation of insulin secretion by regulating the expression of key genes involved in β cell glucose-sensing, mitochondrial function, and the maintenance of the β cell phenotype in differentiated β cells. The overall goal of this minireview is to explore the impact of HNF-1α-deficiency on the β cell to better inform future research into the mechanisms of β cell dysfunction in Oji-Cree youth with T2D.
Explicit Kraus operator-sum representations for time-evolution of Fermi systems in amplitude- and phase-decay processes
Authors: Chen Xian-Feng , Hou Li-Li
Published: May 2015

We set up the fermionic thermal entangled state approach to address Fermi operator master equations for the amplitude- and phase-decay processes and find the explicit Kraus operator-sum representations (KOSR) describing time-evolution of Fermi systems. As an application of KOSR, the evolution law of the two-level atomic system interacting with a photon field in these two decay processes is analytically derived, which shows that the interaction system has a quantum jump as a result of dissipation, but it always remains unchanged in the phase-decay process.
TIIA attenuates LPS-induced mouse endometritis by suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Lv Xiaopei , Fu Kaiqiang , Li Weishi , Wang Yu , Wang Jifang , Li Huatao , Tian Wenru , Cao Rongfeng
Published: May 2015

Endometritis is one of the main diseases that harms the dairy cow industry. Tanshinone IIA (TIIA), a fat-soluble alkaloid isolated from Salviae miltiorrhizae, has been reported to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. However, the anti-inflammatory effects of TIIA on a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endometritis remain to be elucidated. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of TIIA on LPS-induced mouse endometritis. TIIA was intraperitoneally injected 1 h before and 12 h after perfusion of LPS into the uterus. A histological examination was then performed, and the concentrations of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO) in the uterine tissue were determined. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in a homogenate of the uterus were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The extent of phosphorylation of IκBα and p65 was detected by Western blotting. TIIA markedly reduced the infiltration of neutrophils, suppressed MPO activity and the concentration of NO, and attenuated the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β. Furthermore, TIIA inhibited the phosphorylation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 subunit and the degradation of its inhibitor IκBα. All the results suggest that TIIA has strong anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-induced mouse endometritis.
Genome evolution of intermediate wheatgrass as revealed by EST-SSR markers developed from its three progenitor diploid species
Authors: Wang Richard R.-C. , Larson Steve R. , Jensen Kevin B. , Bushman B. Shaun , DeHaan Lee R. , Wang Shuwen , Yan Xuebing
Published: May 2015

Intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey), a segmental autoallohexaploid (2n = 6x = 42), is not only an important forage crop but also a valuable gene reservoir for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) improvement. Throughout the scientific literature, there continues to be disagreement as to the origin of the different genomes in intermediate wheatgrass. Genotypic data obtained from newly developed EST-SSR primers derived from the putative progenitor diploid species Pseudoroegneria spicata (Pursh) Á. Löve (St genome), Thinopyrum bessarabicum (Savul. & Rayss) Á. Löve (J = Jb= Eb), and Thinopyrum elongatum (Host) D. Dewey (E = Je= Ee) indicate that the V genome of Dasypyrum (Coss. & Durieu) T. Durand is not one of the three genomes in intermediate wheatgrass. Based on all available information in the literature and findings in this study, the genomic designation of intermediate wheatgrass should be changed to JvsJrSt, where Jvsand Jrrepresent ancestral genomes of present-day Jbof Th. bessarabicum and Jeof Th. elongatum, with Jvsbeing more ancient. Furthermore, the information suggests that the St genome in intermediate wheatgrass is most similar to the present-day St found in diploid species of Pseudoroegneria from Eurasia.
A Mathematical Problem for Security Analysis of Hash Functions and Pseudorandom Generators
Authors: Nuida Koji , Abe Takuro , Kaji Shizuo , Maeno Toshiaki , Numata Yasuhide
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we specify a class of mathematical problems, which we refer to as “Function Density Problems” (FDPs, in short), and point out novel connections of FDPs to the following two cryptographic topics; theoretical security evaluations of keyless hash functions (such as SHA-1), and constructions of provably secure pseudorandom generators (PRGs) with some enhanced security property introduced by Dubrov and Ishai (STOC 2006). Our argument aims at proposing new theoretical frameworks for these topics (especially for the former) based on FDPs, rather than providing some concrete and practical results on the topics. We also give some examples of mathematical discussions on FDPs, which would be of independent interest from mathematical viewpoints. Finally, we discuss possible directions of future research on other crypto-graphic applications of FDPs and on mathematical studies on FDPs themselves.
Quantum Algorithms for a Set of Group Theoretic Problems
Authors: Fenner Stephen , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2015

We introduce two decision problems, STABILIZERD and TRANSLATING COSETD, and give quantum reductions from them to the problem ORBIT SUPERPOSITION, as well as quantum reductions to them from two group theoretic problems GROUP INTERSECTION and DOUBLE COSET MEMBERSHIP. Based on these reductions, efficient quantum algorithms are obtained for GROUP INTERSECTION and DOUBLE COSET MEMBERSHIP in the setting of black-box groups. Specifically, for solvable groups, this gives efficient quantum algorithms for GROUP INTERSECTION if one of the underlying solvable groups has a smoothly solvable commutator subgroup, and for DOUBLE COSET MEMBERSHIP if one of the underlying solvable groups is smoothly solvable. We also show that GROUP INTERSECTION and DOUBLE COSET MEMBERSHIP are in the complexity class SZK.
Barotropic FRW cosmologies with Chiellini damping in comoving time
Authors: Rosu Haret C. , Mancas Stefan C. , Chen Pisin
Published: May 2015

For nonzero cosmological constant Λ, we show that the barotropic FRW cosmologies as worked out in the comoving time lead in the radiation-dominated case to scale factors of identical form as for the Chiellini dissipative scale factors in conformal time obtained recently by us in Phys. Lett. A 379, 882 (2015). This is due to the Ermakov equation which is obtained in this case. For zero cosmological constant, several textbook solutions are easily obtained as particular cases of our formulas and hypergeometric solutions are also reminded.
Ping-ponging between relations in groups and relations in quandles
Authors: Zablow Joel
Published: May 2015

We give elementary proofs of certain relations in the mapping class group of a closed surface of genus 2, MCG (F2, 0). We generalize portions of these to relations in quandles with certain types of elements, associated to a relatively broad class of groups (including mapping class groups), and derive further similar quandle relations. We show these quandle relations correspond to 2-cycles in the homology of racks of tuples of quandle elements, and thence to families of commutation relations back in the groups. The recurrence of some of these phenomena within higher level structures is also explored, as are multiple types of modifications yielding different relations. The constructions are quite malleable in this respect.
CATIONIC BOLAAMPHIPHILES FOR GENE DELIVERY
Authors: TAN AMELIA LI MIN , LIM ALISA XUE LING , ZHU YITING , YANG YI YAN , KHAN MAJAD
Published: May 2015

Advances in medical research have shed light on the genetic cause of many human diseases. Gene therapy is a promising approach which can be used to deliver therapeutic genes to treat genetic diseases at its most fundamental level. In general, nonviral vectors are preferred due to reduced risk of immune response, but they are also commonly associated with low transfection efficiency and high cytotoxicity. In contrast to viral vectors, nonviral vectors do not have a natural mechanism to overcome extra- and intracellular barriers when delivering the therapeutic gene into cell. Hence, its design has been increasingly complex to meet challenges faced in targeting of, penetration of and expression in a specific host cell in achieving more satisfactory transfection efficiency. Flexibility in design of the vector is desirable, to enable a careful and controlled manipulation of its properties and functions. This can be met by the use of bolaamphiphile, a special class of lipid. Unlike conventional lipids, bolaamphiphiles can form asymmetric complexes with the therapeutic gene. The advantage of having an asymmetric complex lies in the different purposes served by the interior and exterior of the complex. More effective gene encapsulation within the interior of the complex can be achieved without triggering greater aggregation of serum proteins with the exterior, potentially overcoming one of the great hurdles faced by conventional single-head cationic lipids. In this review, we will look into the physiochemical considerations as well as the biological aspects of a bolaamphiphile-based gene delivery system.
DFT/TD-DFT study of the structural and spectral properties of two forms of Rhodamine B
Authors: Zhao Wenwei , Li Baohui , Xu Shuyong , Zhao Qiang
Published: May 2015

The absorption wavelengths of the two forms of Rhodamine B, cation and zwitterion, were investigated by Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) in combination with polarizable continuum model. The redshift in absorption spectrum of cation relative to zwitterion is attributed to strong inductive effect of carboxyphenyl group and weak electrostatic repulsion between xanthene ring and carboxyphenyl group. The absorption wavelengths of cation and zwitterion decrease linearly with increase of solvent polarity in normal alcohols since in high polar solvents electrostatic repulsion between xanthene ring and carboxyphenyl group increases and affects xanthene π conjugation system. The absorption wavelengths in water and formamide show a deviation from linear relationship because large dielectric constant hinders electrostatic repulsion between carboxyphenyl group and xanthene π system. The hydrogen bonds affect absorption wavelengths because hydrogen bonds could affect conjugation between amino N atoms and xanthene π system or electrostatic repulsion between carboxyphenyl group and xanthene ring. These results indicate electrostatic repulsion between carboxyphenyl group and xanthene ring plays a big role in determining absorption spectrum of Rhodamine B.
Combining Two Control Techniques for the Fast Movement of a Two-Wheel Mobile Robot
Authors: Cho Sung Taek , Jung Seul
Published: May 2015

Control of two-wheel mobile robots (TWMRs) is quite a challenging subject for researchers and educators. Control performance of TWMRs is to satisfy both stable balancing and position tracking simultaneously. When the TWMR is moving fast in forward direction with a proportional-derivative (PD) control method, fast movement to the desired position can be achieved. However, larger oscillations in both the balancing angle and position occur. The time-delayed control (TDC) method reduces the oscillation, but its response is relatively slow. The goal of this paper is to provide a solution to satisfy both stable balancing and position for fast forward movements. This paper presents a control fusion approach between a PD control method and a TDC method to make the performance better. Two controllers are fused together with different weighting factors on the basis of a sigmoidal function to satisfy the control performance. Experimental studies are conducted to validate the proposed control approach.
A Review of Simulation Methods of Laser Matter Interactions Focused on Nanosecond Laser Pulsed Systems
Authors: Kaselouris E. , Nikolos I. K. , Orphanos Y. , Bakarezos E. , Papadogiannis N. A. , Tatarakis M. , Dimitriou V.
Published: May 2015

A review study of the developments in the field of pulsed laser-solid interaction simulation methods, for moderate laser energies, is presented. The paper is focused on the methods that numerically simulate the interactions of pulsed ns-laser with solid metal targets. Three main regimes for pulsed laser excitation, are well established, namely, the thermoelastic, melting and plasma regimes. The modelling and simulation techniques that may numerically describe these three regimes and the occurring dynamic matter responses are reviewed. Modelling efforts concerning various fields of applications of lasers are briefly discussed.
Excessive secretion of IL-8 by skeletal muscle in type 2 diabetes impairs tube growth: potential role of PI3K and the Tie2 receptor
Authors: Amir Levy Yifat , Ciaraldi Theodore P. , Mudaliar Sunder R. , Phillips Susan A. , Henry Robert R.
Published: May 2015

Reduced capillary density is a feature of skeletal muscle (SkM) in type 2 diabetes (T2D), which is associated with multiple metabolic and functional abnormalities. SkM has been identified as a secretory tissue, releasing myokines that regulate multiple processes, including vascularization. We sought to determine how myokines secreted from T2D myotubes might influence SkM angiogenesis. Conditioned media (CM) were generated by myotubes from T2D and nondiabetic (ND) subjects. Primary human endothelial cells (HUVEC) and SkM explants were exposed to CM or recombinant myokines, and tube number or capillary outgrowth was determined as well as measurement of protein expression and phosphorylation. CM from ND myotubes stimulated tube formation of HUVEC to a greater extent than T2D myotubes (T2D-CM = 100%, ND-CM = 288 ± 90% after 48 h, P < 0.05). The effects of T2D myotube CM were mediated by IL-8, not IL-15 or GROα, and were due not to cell damage but rather through regulating tube production and maintenance (response to T2D-IL-8 = 100%, response to ND-IL-8 = 263 ± 46% after 48 h, P < 0.05). A similar effect was seen in SkM explants with exposure to IL-8. The dose-dependent effect of IL-8 on tube formation was also observable in the PI3K and FAK signaling pathways and mediated at least in part by PI3K, leading to regulation of Tie2 expression. These results suggest that elevated levels of IL-8 secreted from T2D myotubes create a muscle microenvironment that supports reduced capillarization in T2D. Impaired vascularization of SkM limits the availability of substrates, including glucose and contributes to the T2D phenotype.
Palmitate-induced inflammatory pathways in human adipose microvascular endothelial cells promote monocyte adhesion and impair insulin transcytosis
Authors: Pillon Nicolas J. , Azizi Paymon M. , Li Yujin E. , Liu Jun , Wang Changsen , Chan Kenny L. , Hopperton Kathryn E. , Bazinet Richard P. , Heit Bryan , Bilan Philip J. , Lee Warren L. , Klip Amira
Published: May 2015

Obesity is associated with inflammation and immune cell recruitment to adipose tissue, muscle and intima of atherosclerotic blood vessels. Obesity and hyperlipidemia are also associated with tissue insulin resistance and can compromise insulin delivery to muscle. The muscle/fat microvascular endothelium mediates insulin delivery and facilitates monocyte transmigration, yet its contribution to the consequences of hyperlipidemia is poorly understood. Using primary endothelial cells from human adipose tissue microvasculature (HAMEC), we investigated the effects of physiological levels of fatty acids on endothelial inflammation and function. Expression of cytokines and adhesion molecules was measured by RT-qPCR. Signaling pathways were evaluated by pharmacological manipulation and immunoblotting. Surface expression of adhesion molecules was determined by immunohistochemistry. THP1 monocyte interaction with HAMEC was measured by cell adhesion and migration across transwells. Insulin transcytosis was measured by total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. Palmitate, but not palmitoleate, elevated the expression of IL-6, IL-8, TLR2 (Toll-like receptor 2), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). HAMEC had markedly low fatty acid uptake and oxidation, and CD36 inhibition did not reverse the palmitate-induced expression of adhesion molecules, suggesting that inflammation did not arise from palmitate uptake/metabolism. Instead, inhibition of TLR4 to NF-κB signaling blunted palmitate-induced ICAM-1 expression. Importantly, palmitate-induced surface expression of ICAM-1 promoted monocyte binding and transmigration. Conversely, palmitate reduced insulin transcytosis, an effect reversed by TLR4 inhibition. In summary, palmitate activates inflammatory pathways in primary microvascular endothelial cells, impairing insulin transport and increasing monocyte transmigration. This behavior may contribute in vivo to reduced tissue insulin action and enhanced tissue infiltration by immune cells.
Angiotensin receptors alter myocardial infarction-induced remodeling of the guinea pig cardiac plexus
Authors: Hardwick Jean C. , Ryan Shannon E. , Powers Emily N. , Southerland E. Marie , Ardell Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2015

Neurohumoral remodeling is fundamental to the evolution of heart disease. This study examined the effects of chronic treatment with an ACE inhibitor (captopril, 3 mg·kg−1·day−1), AT1 receptor antagonist (losartan, 3 mg·kg−1·day−1), or AT2 receptor agonist (CGP42112A, 0.14 mg·kg−1·day−1) on remodeling of the guinea pig intrinsic cardiac plexus following chronic myocardial infarction (MI). MI was surgically induced and animals recovered for 6 or 7 wk, with or without drug treatment. Intracellular voltage recordings from whole mounts of the cardiac plexus were used to monitor changes in neuronal responses to norepinephrine (NE), muscarinic agonists (bethanechol), or ANG II. MI produced an increase in neuronal excitability with NE and a loss of sensitivity to ANG II. MI animals treated with captopril exhibited increased neuronal excitability with NE application, while MI animals treated with CGP42112A did not. Losartan treatment of MI animals did not alter excitability with NE compared with untreated MIs, but these animals did show an enhanced synaptic efficacy. This effect on synaptic function was likely due to presynaptic AT1 receptors, since ANG II was able to reduce output to nerve fiber stimulation in control animals, and this effect was prevented by inclusion of losartan in the bath solution. Analysis of AT receptor expression by Western blot showed a decrease in both AT1 and AT2 receptors with MI that was reversed by all three drug treatments. These data indicate that neuronal remodeling of the guinea pig cardiac plexus following MI is mediated, in part, by activation of both AT1 and AT2 receptors.
Dynamics of the functional link between area MT LFPs and motion detection
Authors: Smith Jackson E. T. , Beliveau Vincent , Schoen Alan , Remz Jordana , Zhan Chang'an A. , Cook Erik P.
Published: May 2015

The evolution of a visually guided perceptual decision results from multiple neural processes, and recent work suggests that signals with different neural origins are reflected in separate frequency bands of the cortical local field potential (LFP). Spike activity and LFPs in the middle temporal area (MT) have a functional link with the perception of motion stimuli (referred to as neural-behavioral correlation). To cast light on the different neural origins that underlie this functional link, we compared the temporal dynamics of the neural-behavioral correlations of MT spikes and LFPs. Wide-band activity was simultaneously recorded from two locations of MT from monkeys performing a threshold, two-stimuli, motion pulse detection task. Shortly after the motion pulse occurred, we found that high-gamma (100–200 Hz) LFPs had a fast, positive correlation with detection performance that was similar to that of the spike response. Beta (10–30 Hz) LFPs were negatively correlated with detection performance, but their dynamics were much slower, peaked late, and did not depend on stimulus configuration or reaction time. A late change in the correlation of all LFPs across the two recording electrodes suggests that a common input arrived at both MT locations prior to the behavioral response. Our results support a framework in which early high-gamma LFPs likely reflected fast, bottom-up, sensory processing that was causally linked to perception of the motion pulse. In comparison, late-arriving beta and high-gamma LFPs likely reflected slower, top-down, sources of neural-behavioral correlation that originated after the perception of the motion pulse.
Effort, success, and nonuse determine arm choice
Authors: Schweighofer Nicolas , Xiao Yupeng , Kim Sujin , Yoshioka Toshinori , Gordon James , Osu Rieko
Published: May 2015

How do humans choose one arm or the other to reach single targets in front of the body? Current theories of reward-driven decisionmaking predict that choice results from a comparison of “action values,” which are the expected rewards for possible actions in a given state. In addition, current theories of motor control predict that in planning arm movements, humans minimize an expected motor cost that balances motor effort and endpoint accuracy. Here, we test the hypotheses that arm choice is determined by comparison of action values comprising expected effort and expected task success for each arm, as well as a handedness bias. Right-handed subjects, in either a large or small target condition, were first instructed to use each hand in turn to shoot through an array of targets and then to choose either hand to shoot through the same targets. Effort was estimated via inverse kinematics and dynamics. A mixed-effects logistic-regression analysis showed that, as predicted, both expected effort and expected success predicted choice, as did arm use in the preceding trial. Finally, individual parameter estimation showed that the handedness bias correlated with mean difference between right- and left-arm success, leading to overall lower use of the left arm. We discuss our results in light of arm nonuse in individuals' poststroke.
Role of MicroRNAs in Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System-Mediated Cardiovascular Inflammation and Remodeling
Authors: Pacurari Maricica , Tchounwou Paul B.
Published: May 2015

MicroRNAs are endogenous regulators of gene expression either by inhibiting translation or protein degradation. Recent studies indicate that microRNAs play a role in cardiovascular disease and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system- (RAAS-) mediated cardiovascular inflammation, either as mediators or being targeted by RAAS pharmacological inhibitors. The exact role(s) of microRNAs in RAAS-mediated cardiovascular inflammation and remodeling is/are still in early stage of investigation. However, few microRNAs have been shown to play a role in RAAS signaling, particularly miR-155, miR-146a/b, miR-132/122, and miR-483-3p. Identification of specific microRNAs and their targets and elucidating microRNA-regulated mechanisms associated RAS-mediated cardiovascular inflammation and remodeling might lead to the development of novel pharmacological strategies to target RAAS-mediated vascular pathologies. This paper reviews microRNAs role in inflammatory factors mediating cardiovascular inflammation and RAAS genes and the effect of RAAS pharmacological inhibition on microRNAs and the resolution of RAAS-mediated cardiovascular inflammation and remodeling. Also, this paper discusses the advances on microRNAs-based therapeutic approaches that may be important in targeting RAAS signaling.