bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre‐adapting parasitic phages to a pathogen leads to increased pathogen clearance and lowered resistance evolution with Pseudomonas aeruginosa cystic fibrosis bacterial isolates
Authors: Friman V‐P. , Soanes‐Brown D. , Sierocinski P. , Molin S. , Johansen H. K. , Merabishvili M. , Pirnay J‐P. , De Vos D. , Buckling A.
Published: October 2015

Recent years have seen renewed interest in phage therapy – the use of viruses to specifically kill disease‐causing bacteria – because of the alarming rise in antibiotic resistance. However, a major limitation of phage therapy is the ease at with bacteria can evolve resistance to phages. Here, we determined whether in vitro experimental coevolution can increase the efficiency of phage therapy by limiting the resistance evolution of intermittent and chronic cystic fibrosis Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung isolates to four different phages. We first pre‐adapted all phage strains against all bacterial strains and then compared the efficacy of pre‐adapted and nonadapted phages against ancestral bacterial strains. We found that evolved phages were more efficient in reducing bacterial densities than ancestral phages. This was primarily because only 50% of bacterial strains were able to evolve resistance to evolved phages, whereas all bacteria were able to evolve some level of resistance to ancestral phages. Although the rate of resistance evolution did not differ between intermittent and chronic isolates, it incurred a relatively higher growth cost for chronic isolates when measured in the absence of phages. This is likely to explain why evolved phages were more effective in reducing the densities of chronic isolates. Our data show that pathogen genotypes respond differently to phage pre‐adaptation, and as a result, phage therapies might need to be individually adjusted for different patients.
Speciation processes in putative island endemic sister bat species: false impressions from mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite data
Authors: Kuo Hao‐Chih , Chen Shiang‐Fan , Fang Yin‐Ping , Cotton James A. , Parker Joe D. , Csorba Gábor , Lim Burton K. , Eger Judith L. , Chen Chia‐Hong , Chou Cheng‐Han , Rossiter Stephen J.
Published: October 2015

Cases of geographically restricted co‐occurring sister taxa are rare and may point to potential divergence with gene flow. The two bat species Murina gracilis and Murina recondita are both endemic to Taiwan and are putative sister species. To test for nonallopatric divergence and gene flow in these taxa, we generated sequences using Sanger and next‐generation sequencing, and combined these with microsatellite data for coalescent‐based analyses. MtDNA phylogenies supported the reciprocally monophyletic sister relationship between M. gracilis and M. recondita; however, clustering of microsatellite genotypes revealed several cases of species admixture suggesting possible introgression. Sequencing of microsatellite flanking regions revealed that admixture signatures stemmed from microsatellite allele homoplasy rather than recent introgressive hybridization, and also uncovered an unexpected sister relationship between M. recondita and the continental species Murina eleryi, to the exclusion of M. gracilis. To dissect the basis of these conflicts between ncDNA and mtDNA, we analysed sequences from 10 anonymous ncDNA loci with *beast and isolation‐with‐migration and found two distinct clades of M. eleryi, one of which was sister to M. recondita. We conclude that Taiwan was colonized by the ancestor of M. gracilis first, followed by the ancestor of M. recondita after a period of allopatric divergence. After colonization, the mitochondrial genome of M. recondita was replaced by that of the resident M. gracilis. This study illustrates how apparent signatures of sympatric divergence can arise from complex histories of allopatric divergence, colonization and hybridization, thus highlighting the need for rigorous analyses to distinguish between such scenarios.
Histology and cell wall biochemistry of stone cells in the physical defence of conifers against insects
Authors: Whitehill Justin G. A. , Henderson Hannah , Schuetz Mathias , Skyba Oleksandr , Yuen Macaire Man Saint , King John , Samuels A. Lacey , Mansfield Shawn D. , Bohlmann Jörg
Published: October 2015

Conifers possess an array of physical and chemical defences against stem‐boring insects. Stone cells provide a physical defence associated with resistance against bark beetles and weevils. In Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis), abundance of stone cells in the cortex of apical shoots is positively correlated with resistance to white pine weevil (Pissodes strobi). We identified histological, biochemical and molecular differences in the stone cell phenotype of weevil resistant (R) or susceptible (S) Sitka spruce genotypes. R trees displayed significantly higher quantities of cortical stone cells near the apical shoot node, the primary site for weevil feeding. Lignin, cellulose, xylan and mannan were the most abundant components of stone cell secondary walls, respectively. Lignin composition of stone cells isolated from R trees contained a higher percentage of G‐lignin compared with S trees. Transcript profiling revealed higher transcript abundance in the R genotype of coumarate 3‐hydroxylase, a key monolignol biosynthetic gene. Developing stone cells in current year apical shoots incorporated fluorescent‐tagged monolignol into the secondary cell wall, while mature stone cells of previous year apical shoots did not. Stone cell development is an ephemeral process, and fortification of shoot tips in R trees is an effective strategy against insect feeding.
Rice ASR1 and ASR5 are complementary transcription factors regulating aluminium responsive genes
Authors: Arenhart Rafael Augusto , Schunemann Mariana , Bucker Neto Lauro , Margis Rogerio , Wang Zhi‐Yong , Margis‐Pinheiro Marcia
Published: October 2015

Rice is the most tolerant staple crop to aluminium (Al) toxicity, which is a limiting stress for grain production worldwide. This Al tolerance is the result of combined mechanisms that are triggered in part by the transcription factor ASR5. ASRs are dual target proteins that participate as chaperones in the cytoplasm and as transcription factors in the nucleus. Moreover, these proteins respond to biotic and abiotic stresses, including salt, drought and Al. Rice plants with silenced ASR genes are highly sensitive to Al. ASR5, a well‐characterized protein, binds to specific cis elements in Al responsive genes and regulates their expression. Because the Al sensitive phenotype found in silenced rice plants could be due to the mutual silencing of ASR1 and ASR5, we investigated the effect of the specific silencing of ASR5. Plants with artificial microRNA silencing of ASR5 present a non‐transformed phenotype in response to Al because of the induction of ASR1. ASR1 has the same subcellular localization as ASR5, binds to ASR5 cis‐regulatory elements, regulates ASR5 regulated genes in a non‐preferential manner and might replace ASR5 under certain conditions. Our results indicate that ASR1 and ASR5 act in concert and complementarily to regulate gene expression in response to Al.
Is she the one? Personality judgments from online personal advertisements
Authors: WEIDMAN AARON C. , CHENG JOEY T. , CHISHOLM CHANDRA , TRACY JESSICA L.
Published: October 2015

The authors examined the linguistic cues that inform personality judgments from online personal advertisements, and whether these judgments are accurate. Advertisers reported their personality, and 2 sets of naïve judges—including one that was seeking a romantic partner—rated advertisers' personality after reading their ads. Judges' impressions of extraversion, agreeableness, and emotional stability—3 traits that are strongly desired in a romantic partner—were influenced by particular lexical cues, such as word count, emotionality, and profanity. Both sets of judges formed accurate impressions for extraversion, but not other traits. These findings suggest that online daters use linguistic cues to judge the desirability of a potential romantic partner's personality, but that the impressions driven by these cues are not always accurate.
Money Pumps, Incompleteness, and Indeterminacy
Authors: Gustafsson Johan E.
Published: October 2015

In an alleged counter‐example to the completeness of rational preferences, a career as a clarinettist is compared with a career in law. It seems reasonable to neither want to judge that the law career is at least as preferred as the clarinet career nor want to judge that the clarinet career is at least as preferred as the law career. The two standard interpretations of examples of this kind are, first, that the examples show that preferences are rationally permitted to be incomplete and, second, that the examples show that preferences are rationally permitted to be indeterminate. In this paper, I shall argue that the difference between these interpretations is crucial for the money‐pump argument for transitivity, which is the standard argument that rational preferences are transitive. I shall argue that the money‐pump argument for transitivity fails if preferences are rationally permitted to be incomplete but that it works if preferences are rationally permitted to be indeterminate and rationally required to be complete.
Extracellular ATP functions in alleviating the decrease of PSII photochemistry caused by the infection of Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli
Authors: Jiao Q.‐S. , Feng H.‐Q. , Tian W.‐Y. , Bai J.‐Y. , Sun K. , Jia L.‐Y. , Zhang J.‐P.
Published: October 2015

Extracellular ATP (eATP) can function as a signalling molecule to regulate a wide range of cellular processes. This present work investigated the role of eATP in mediating the change of PSII (photosystem II) photochemistry of the tissues of Phaseolus vulgaris leaves infected with Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli (Xcp). Infection of the leaves with Xcp caused a significant decrease in the the PSII maximal photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), the maximum quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry at illumination (Fv′/Fm′), the PSII operating efficiency (ΦPSII), the rate of non‐cyclic electron transport through PSII (ETR), photochemical quenching (qP), and eATP level in the tissues of the infected leaves. At the same time, the levels of non‐photochemical quenching (qN) and the quantum yield of regulated energy dissipation of PSII (Y(NPQ)) were significantly increased. Application of exogenous ATP at 0·2 mm to uninfected leaves had no significant effect on any of the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters being measured. However, in the tissues of infected leaves, the application of exogenous ATP alleviated the decreases of the Fv/Fm, Fv′/Fm′, ΦPSII, ETR, qP and eATP level, and also abolished the increases of qN and Y(NPQ). These results suggest that the change of PSII photochemistry by pathogen infection could be mediated by eATP.
The use of remote sensing to develop a site history for restoration planning in an arid landscape
Authors: Abdullah Meshal M. , Feagin Rusty A. , Musawi Layla , Whisenant Steven , Popescu Sorin
Published: October 2015

Developing a site history and ecological site description is one of the critical steps in restoration planning for arid landscapes. This study focuses on Umm Nigga, Northeast of Kuwait, which was damaged by various human activities. The northern portion of Umm Nigga falls within the boundaries of the demilitarized zone (DMZ) adjacent to Iraq, and was fenced off to restrict public access since 1994. The central objective of this project was to use remote sensing, field assessment, and Geographical Information System (GIS) spatial data to develop a site history for restoration planning of Umm Nigga. Field observation and GIS analysis indicated that the landscape could be divided into three units along a gradient ranging from the coast to inland locations, based on geology, soil properties, and dominant vegetation. Reference sites in the DMZ were also matched for each unit. Remote sensing was used to compare vegetation cover between damaged and reference sites at selected units. Results showed that vegetation cover increased in the unfenced damaged site after the 1991 Gulf War from 2% in 1988 to 37% in 1998, but then it decreased to 23% in 2013. In the DMZ reference site, the vegetation cover also increased from 0% in 1988 to 40% in 1998, but it continued increasing through 2013 to 64%. We conclude that overgrazing and destructive camping are the major source of disturbance in the damaged areas.
In Eating‐Disordered Inpatient Adolescents, Self‐Criticism Predicts Nonsuicidal Self‐Injury
Authors: Itzhaky Liat , Shahar Golan , Stein Daniel , Fennig Silvana
Published: October 2015

We examined the role of depressive traits—self‐criticism and dependency—in nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) and suicidal ideation among inpatient adolescents with eating disorders. In two studies (N = 103 and 55), inpatients were assessed for depressive traits, suicidal ideations, and NSSI. In Study 2, motivation for carrying out NSSI was also assessed. In both studies, depression predicted suicidal ideation and self‐criticism predicted NSSI. In Study 2, depression and suicidal ideation also predicted NSSI. The automatic positive motivation for NSSI was predicted by dependency and depressive symptoms, and by a two‐way interaction between self‐criticism and dependency. Consistent with the “self‐punishment model,” self‐criticism appears to constitute a dimension of vulnerability for NSSI.
Ambivalent moralities of cooperation and corruption: Local explanations for (under)development on a Philippine island
Authors: Bulloch Hannah C. M.
Published: October 2015

Concepts of development are inevitably loaded with value judgements concerning what constitutes ‘proper’ social and economic organisation. Focusing on the cultural politics of development on Siquijor, an island in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, this paper explores these often tacit ideals. It considers one of the key idioms Siquijodnon use in explaining how development is brought about—cooperation—and some of its locally perceived opposites—‘crab mentality’, politicking and corruption—which contain powerful moral critiques of self and society. On Siquijor, local discourses of development have it that widespread poverty in the Philippines demonstrates a failing of Filipinos to live up to supposedly universal norms of ethical socio‐economic conduct. However, I argue that attention to local norms of moral economy reveal the ambivalence underlying these notions of development, particularly in relation to the roles of individualism and reciprocity in socio‐economic organisation.
Effect of topical 1% cyclopentolate hydrochloride on tear production, pupil size, and intraocular pressure in healthy Beagles
Authors: Costa Daniel , Leiva Marta , Coyo Natàlia , Laguna Fernando , Ríos Jose , Peña Gimenez Maria Teresa
Published: October 2015

Objective

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of topical 1% cyclopentolate hydrochloride (CH) on tear production (TP), pupil size (PS), and intraocular pressure (IOP) in dogs.

Animal studied

Fifteen healthy beagle dogs from theUABresearch‐teaching colony.

Procedure

Dogs without ocular diseases were included. Each animal received one drop of 1%CHophthalmic solution in a randomly selected eye.TP,PS, andIOPwere evaluated by means ofSTT‐1, static pupillometry, and rebound tonometry, respectively. Evaluations were performed before drug instillation and at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 30, 36, 48, 54, 60, 72, 84, and 96 h postinstillation. Examinations took place in a room with fixed light intensity (40–55 lux). Statistical analysis was performed by means of generalized estimating equations for the effect onSTT‐1, pupil size, andIOPover time.

Results

After unilateral application of 1%CH, significant pupillary dilation started at 30 min, reached its maximum at 12 h, and returned to pre‐instillation size after 72 h. No significant effects were found onTPorIOP, at any time. No effects were observed in the untreated eye on any of the parameters evaluated.

Conclusion

Cyclopentolate hydrochloride could be considered a therapeutic alternative when use of a cycloplegic drug is needed and effects on tear production andIOPare unwanted.
Versatility of the Angularis Oris Axial Pattern Flap for Facial Reconstruction
Authors: Losinski Sara L. , Stanley Bryden J. , Schallberger Sandra P. , Nelson Laura L. , Millard Heather A.M. Towle
Published: October 2015

Objective

To describe the versatility of the axial pattern flap based on the cutaneous perforating branch of the angularis oris artery for reconstruction of large facial defects in dogs, including complications and clinical outcomes.

Study Design

Retrospective clinical case series.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs (n = 8).

Methods

Facial flaps (n = 9) based at the commissure of the lip with a caudodorsal orientation were utilized, with established anatomical borders. Flaps were elevated deep to the panniculus carnosus in a caudal to rostral direction, preserving the angularis oris artery, its cutaneous perforator, and surrounding cutaneous vasculature. Flaps were rotated dorsally or ventrally to cover the defect. Primary closure of the donor site was by direct apposition in all cases.

Results

Angularis oris axial pattern flaps were most commonly used to close large defects of the nasomaxillary area rostral to the eyes (6 dogs), followed by orbital (2) and intermandibular (1) defects. Defects occurred because of tumor resection (6 dogs), trauma (2), and a chronic, non‐healing wounding (1). All flaps healed with acceptable functional and cosmetic outcomes without major complications. Followup ranged from 10 days to 16 months. Minor postoperative complications included flap edema (8 dogs), partial incisional dehiscence (3), distal tip necrosis (2), and oroantral fistula recurrence (1).

Conclusion

Angularis oris axial pattern flaps provided hirsute, full‐thickness skin coverage of a variety of large facial defects with minor complications, and should be considered when restructuring large defects of the rostral face or chin.
Thoracoscopic Lung Lobectomy for Primary Lung Tumors in 13 Dogs
Authors: Bleakley Seth , Duncan Colleen G. , Monnet Eric
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To report our experience with thoracoscopic lung lobectomy in dogs with primary lung tumors and compare the long‐term outcome between dogs with primary lung tumors treated with lobectomy via thoracoscopy or thoracotomy.

Study Design

Retrospective case series; case–control study.

Animals

Thirteen dogs with primary lung tumors treated with thoracoscopic lung lobectomy; case‐matched cohort of 9 dogs with primary lung tumors treated with lobectomy via thoracotomy.

Methods

Medical records from dogs that underwent thoracoscopic lung lobectomy at a single institution were reviewed. Only cases with primary lung tumors were included. Surgical complications and conversion rate were reported. Cases without conversion and with clean margins on histologic examination were matched on prognostic criteria to cases with primary lung tumors treated with lobectomy via thoracotomy. Survival was compared between thoracoscopy and thoracotomy.

Results

Thirteen dogs with primary lung tumors that measured 2.2–7 cm underwent thoracoscopic lung lobectomy. Nine dogs were diagnosed with carcinoma and 4 with histiocytic sarcoma. There were 3 conversions to open thoracotomy because of poor visualization. There were no differences in short‐term outcome between dogs that had their procedures completed via thoracoscopy and those that were converted to thoracotomy. Nine dogs with clean margins were matched with 9 dogs treated via thoracotomy. Mean (standard deviation) followup was 367 (327) days for dogs undergoing thoracoscopy and 603 (612) days for dogs undergoing thoracotomy. The 2‐year survival rate was 44% for thoracoscopy and 56% for thoracotomy (P = .942).

Conclusion

Selected primary lung tumors in dogs can be safely resected with thoracoscopy and not affect long‐term outcome.
Comparison of Pedicle Screw Loosening Mechanisms and the Effect on Fixation Strength
Authors: Mehmanparast Hedayeh , Petit Yvan , Mac-Thiong Jean-Marc
Published: October 2015

Screw loosening is a common complication in spinal fixation using pedicle screws which may lead to loss of correction and revision surgery. The mechanisms of pedicle screw loosening are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to compare the pedicle screw pullout force and stiffness subsequent or not to multidirectional cyclic bending load (toggling). Pedicle screws inserted into porcine lumbar vertebrae underwent toggling in craniocaudal (CC), mediolateral (ML) directions, and no toggling (NT) before pullout. This study suggests that toggling and in particular CC toggling should be included in biomechanical evaluation of pedicle screw fixation strength.
Analytical Solutions to H2 and H∞ Optimizations of Resonant Shunted Electromagnetic Tuned Mass Damper and Vibration Energy Harvester
Authors: Tang Xiudong , Liu Yilun , Cui Wen , Zuo Lei
Published: October 2015

When optimized, tuned mass dampers (TMDs) can effectively mitigate the vibration of the primary structure, because additional resonance and damping are introduced by the auxiliary mass-spring-damper system. Similar effect can be realized without auxiliary mass when an electromagnetic transducer shunt with the R-L-C resonant circuit is placed between the primary structure and the base. This paper is to analytically optimize the parameters of the R-L-C circuits for vibration mitigation. Both H2 and H∞ optimization criteria are investigated, which are to minimize the root-mean-square (RMS) vibration under random excitation and the peak magnitude in the frequency domain, respectively. The concise closed-form solutions of the optimal parameters are then summarized together with the ones obtained the using fixed-point method, for practical implementation convenience. The H2 and H∞ optimizations of energy harvesting are also discussed in this paper. Furthermore, we also investigate the sensitivity of system performances to the tuning parameter changes of the electromagnetic shunt circuit.
P-Spice Modeling Three-Dimensional Propagation of Ultrasound Diffraction Considering a Gaussian Beam Approach
Authors: Hanane Soucrati , Ahmed Chitnalah , Noureddine Aouzale , Abdelaziz El Idrissi
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we propose a new method for simulating three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonic wave propagation using P-Spice like simulator. We use a one-dimensional transmission line model to implement the diffraction losses. In order to simulate the beam pattern considering axial and radial orientations, we calculate the diffraction losses in 3D space. First, we express the radiated field using a set of Gaussian beams. Calculating the average pressure over the receiver surface allows us to determine the diffraction losses. These losses are then incorporated into the P-Spice model via the G parameter which is axial and radial orientations dependent. Comparison between P-Spice simulation and analytical model results shows good agreements.
Root Locus Analysis of the Adaptation Process in Active Noise Control for Repetitive Impulses
Authors: Sun Guohua , Li Mingfeng , Lim Teik C.
Published: October 2015

The popular filtered-x least-mean squares (FxLMS) algorithm has been widely adopted in active noise control (ANC) for relatively stationary disturbances. The convergence behavior of the FxLMS algorithm has been well understood in the adaptation process for stationary sinusoidal or stochastic white noises. Its behavior for transient impulses has not received as much attention. This paper employs the root locus theory to develop a graphical tool for the analysis and design of the adaptive ANC system for repetitive impulses. It is found that there is a dominant pole controlling the stability of the adaptation process, in which the maximum step size can be determined. The analysis also observes a transient adaptation behavior in the FxLMS algorithm for repetitive impulses. In this case, the predicted step-size bound decreases as the number of repetitive impulses increases for a general secondary path. Furthermore, the dominant root tuning process is applied by incorporating a digital filter after the output of the adaptive controller, which significantly increases the step-size bound. The accuracy of the analysis was extensively validated by numerical simulation studies by assuming various secondary path models. The simulated results show an excellent agreement with analytical predictions.
Datum Planes Based on a Constrained L1 Norm
Authors: Shakarji Craig M. , Srinivasan Vijay
Published: October 2015

This paper has two major goals. First, we present an algorithm for establishing planar datums suitable for a default in tolerancing standards. The algorithm is based on a constrained minimization search based on the L1 (L1) norm after forming a convex surface from the original surface or sampled points. We prove that the problem reduces to a simple minimization search between the convex surface and its centroid. The data points in the discrete case do not need to have any corresponding weights provided with them, as appropriate weighting is part of the algorithm itself, thereby making the algorithm largely insensitive to nonuniformly sampled data points. Terse mathematica code is included for the reader. The code is sufficient for primary and secondary planar datum fitting as well as a 3-2-1 datum reference frame generation. The second goal of this paper is to compare this new method with several other possible means for establishing datum planes, ultimately showing several appealing characteristics of the proposed algorithm. Since both the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standardization efforts are actively working to establish datum plane definitions, the timing of such a study is opportune.
Resource Paper: Sonoluminescence
Authors: Crum Lawrence A.
Published: October 2015

Sonoluminescence is the production of electromagnetic radiation, much of it in the form of visible light, that is emitted from a gas-filled cavity that has grown and collapsed under the influence of a varying pressure field. This resource paper provides a guide to the literature of sonoluminescence, from its early history to the present.
Evidence for orbital order and its relation to superconductivity in FeSe
0.4
Te
0.6
Authors: Singh Udai R. , White Seth C. , Schmaus Stefan , Tsurkan Vladimir , Loidl Alois , Deisenhofer Joachim , Wahl Peter
Published: October 2015

Electronic states in an iron-chalcogenide superconductor are found to have a lower symmetry than the crystal structure.
Drosophila
Dicer-2 has an RNA interference–independent function that modulates Toll immune signaling
Authors: Wang Zhaowei , Wu Di , Liu Yongxiang , Xia Xiaoling , Gong Wanyun , Qiu Yang , Yang Jie , Zheng Ya , Li Jingjing , Wang Yu-Feng , Xiang Ye , Hu Yuanyang , Zhou Xi
Published: October 2015

Fly Dicer-2 exhibits a non–RNA interference function in the posttranscriptional modulation of Toll protein expression and Toll signaling.
Response thresholds in bacterial chemotaxis
Authors: Lele Pushkar P. , Shrivastava Abhishek , Roland Thibault , Berg Howard C.
Published: October 2015

The absence of responses to shallow temporal ramps of chemicals does not appear to be accounted for by motor remodeling.
Cascading elastic perturbation in Japan due to the 2012
M
w
8.6 Indian Ocean earthquake
Authors: Delorey Andrew A. , Chao Kevin , Obara Kazushige , Johnson Paul A.
Published: October 2015

Seismic waves from the 2012
M
w
8.6 Indian Ocean earthquake trigger changes in elastic properties and the stress field in Japan.
Hierarchical wrinkling in a confined permeable biogel
Authors: Leocmach Mathieu , Nespoulous Mathieu , Manneville Sébastien , Gibaud Thomas
Published: October 2015

The dance of a yoghurt and its whey, ruled by viscosity and porosity, creates concentric wrinkles that mimic morphogenesis.
Gold(III)-CO and gold(III)-CO
2
complexes and their role in the water-gas shift reaction
Authors: Roşca Dragoş-Adrian , Fernandez-Cestau Julio , Morris James , Wright Joseph A. , Bochmann Manfred
Published: October 2015

The first isolable gold(III)-CO complex reveals unexpected differences in CO bonding to gold and platinum catalysts.
RETRACTED: pNaKtide inhibits Na/K-ATPase reactive oxygen species amplification and attenuates adipogenesis
Authors: Sodhi Komal , Maxwell Kyle , Yan Yanling , Liu Jiang , Chaudhry Muhammad A. , Getty Morghan , Xie Zijian , Abraham Nader G. , Shapiro Joseph I.
Published: October 2015

The Na/K-ATPase amplifies oxidant signaling, and its attenuation with pNaKtide antagonizes adipogenesis.
Influence of Vacuum Cooling on Escherichia coli O157:H7 Infiltration in Fresh Leafy Greens via a Multiphoton-Imaging Approach
Authors: Vonasek Erica , Nitin Nitin
Published: October 2015

Microbial pathogen infiltration in fresh leafy greens is a significant food safety risk factor. In various postharvest operations, vacuum cooling is a critical process for maintaining the quality of fresh produce. The overall goal of this study was to evaluate the risk of vacuum cooling-induced infiltration of
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 into lettuce using multiphoton microscopy. Multiphoton imaging was chosen as the method to locate
E. coli
O157:H7 within an intact lettuce leaf due to its high spatial resolution, low background fluorescence, and near-infrared (NIR) excitation source compared to those of conventional confocal microscopy. The variables vacuum cooling, surface moisture, and leaf side were evaluated in a three-way factorial study with
E. coli
O157:H7 on lettuce. A total of 188 image stacks were collected. The images were analyzed for
E. coli
O157:H7 association with stomata and
E. coli
O157:H7 infiltration. The quantitative imaging data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicate that the low-moisture condition led to an increased risk of microbial association with stomata (
P
 < 0.05). Additionally, the interaction between vacuum cooling levels and moisture levels led to an increased risk of infiltration (
P
 < 0.05). This study also demonstrates the potential of multiphoton imaging for improving sensitivity and resolution of imaging-based measurements of microbial interactions with intact leaf structures, including infiltration.
Combination Therapy of LysGH15 and Apigenin as a New Strategy for Treating Pneumonia Caused by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Xia Feifei , Li Xin , Wang Bin , Gong Pengjuan , Xiao Feng , Yang Mei , Zhang Lei , Song Jun , Hu Liyuan , Cheng Mengjun , Sun Changjiang , Feng Xin , Lei Liancheng , Ouyang Songying , Liu Zhi-Jie , Li Xinwei , Gu Jingmin , Han Wenyu
Published: October 2015

Pneumonia is one of the most prevalent
Staphylococcus aureus
-mediated diseases, and the treatment of this infection is becoming challenging due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant
S. aureus
, especially methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
(MRSA) strains. It has been reported that LysGH15, the lysin derived from phage GH15, displays high efficiency and a broad lytic spectrum against MRSA and that apigenin can markedly diminish the alpha-hemolysin of
S. aureus
. In this study, the combination therapy of LysGH15 and apigenin was evaluated
in vitro
and in a mouse
S. aureus
pneumonia model. No mutual adverse influence was detected between LysGH15 and apigenin
in vitro
. In animal experiments, the combination therapy showed a more effective treatment effect than LysGH15 or apigenin monotherapy (
P
< 0.05). The bacterial load in the lungs of mice administered the combination therapy was 1.5 log units within 24 h after challenge, whereas the loads in unprotected mice or mice treated with apigenin or LysGH15 alone were 10.2, 4.7, and 2.6 log units, respectively. The combination therapy group showed the best health status, the lowest ratio of wet tissue to dry tissue of the lungs, the smallest amount of total protein and cells in the lung, the fewest pathological manifestations, and the lowest cytokine level compared with the other groups (
P
< 0.05). With regard to its better protective efficacy, the combination therapy of LysGH15 and apigenin exhibits therapeutic potential for treating pneumonia caused by MRSA. This paper reports the combination therapy of lysin and natural products derived from traditional Chinese medicine.
Antibodies against Venom of the Snake Deinagkistrodon acutus
Authors: Lee Chi-Hsin , Lee Yu-Ching , Liang Meng-Huei , Leu Sy-Jye , Lin Liang-Tzung , Chiang Jen-Ron , Yang Yi-Yuan
Published: October 2015

Snake venom protein fromDeinagkistrodon acutus(DA protein), one of the major venomous species in Taiwan, causes hemorrhagic symptoms that can lead to death. Although horse-derived antivenin is a major treatment, relatively strong and detrimental side effects are seen occasionally. In our study, yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) was purified from eggs, and DA protein was recognized using Western blotting and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), similar to therapeutic horse antivenin. The ELISA also indicated that specific IgY antibodies were elicited after the fifth booster, plateaued, and lasted for at least 3 months. To generate monoclonal single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies, we used phage display technology to construct two libraries with short or long linkers, containing 6.24 × 108and 5.28 × 108transformants, respectively. After four rounds of biopanning, the eluted phage titer increased, and the phage-based ELISA indicated that the specific clones were enriched. Nucleotide sequences of 30 individual clones expressing scFv were analyzed and classified into four groups that all specifically recognized the DA venom protein. Furthermore, based on mass spectrometry, the scFv-bound protein was deduced to be snake venom metalloproteinase proteins. Most importantly, both IgY and mixed scFv inhibited the lethal effect in mice injected with the minimum lethal dosage of the DA protein. We suggest that together, these antibodies could be applied to the development of diagnostic agents or treatments for snakebite envenomation in the future.
Genomic Diversity of Phages Infecting Probiotic Strains of Lactobacillus paracasei
Authors: Mercanti Diego J. , Rousseau Geneviève M. , Capra María L. , Quiberoni Andrea , Tremblay Denise M. , Labrie Simon J. , Moineau Sylvain
Published: October 2015

Strains of the
Lactobacillus casei
group have been extensively studied because some are used as probiotics in foods. Conversely, their phages have received much less attention. We analyzed the complete genome sequences of five
L. paracasei
temperate phages: C
L
1, C
L
2, i
Lp
84, i
Lp
1308, and iA2. Only phage iA2 could not replicate in an indicator strain. The genome lengths ranged from 34,155 bp (iA2) to 39,474 bp (C
L
1). Phages iA2 and i
Lp
1308 (34,176 bp) possess the smallest genomes reported, thus far, for phages of the
L. casei
group. The GC contents of the five phage genomes ranged from 44.8 to 45.6%. As observed with many other phages, their genomes were organized as follows: genes coding for DNA packaging, morphogenesis, lysis, lysogeny, and replication. Phages C
L
1, C
L
2, and i
Lp
1308 are highly related to each other. Phage i
Lp
84 was also related to these three phages, but the similarities were limited to gene products involved in DNA packaging and structural proteins. Genomic fragments of phages C
L
1, C
L
2, i
Lp
1308, and i
Lp
84 were found in several genomes of
L. casei
strains. Prophage iA2 is unrelated to these four phages, but almost all of its genome was found in at least four
L. casei
strains. Overall, these phages are distinct from previously characterized
Lactobacillus
phages. Our results highlight the diversity of
L. casei
phages and indicate frequent DNA exchanges between phages and their hosts.
Microbial Community Analysis with Ribosomal Gene Fragments from Shotgun Metagenomes
Authors: Guo Jiarong , Cole James R. , Zhang Qingpeng , Brown C. Titus , Tiedje James M.
Published: October 2015

Shotgun metagenomic sequencing does not depend on gene-targeted primers or PCR amplification; thus, it is not affected by primer bias or chimeras. However, searching rRNA genes from large shotgun Illumina data sets is computationally expensive, and no approach exists for unsupervised community analysis of small-subunit (SSU) rRNA gene fragments retrieved from shotgun data. We present a pipeline, SSUsearch, to achieve the faster identification of short-subunit rRNA gene fragments and enabled unsupervised community analysis with shotgun data. It also includes classification and copy number correction, and the output can be used by traditional amplicon analysis platforms. Shotgun metagenome data using this pipeline yielded higher diversity estimates than amplicon data but retained the grouping of samples in ordination analyses. We applied this pipeline to soil samples with paired shotgun and amplicon data and confirmed bias against
Verrucomicrobia
in a commonly used V6-V8 primer set, as well as discovering likely bias against
Actinobacteria
and for
Verrucomicrobia
in a commonly used V4 primer set. This pipeline can utilize all variable regions in SSU rRNA and also can be applied to large-subunit (LSU) rRNA genes for confirmation of community structure. The pipeline can scale to handle large amounts of soil metagenomic data (5 Gb memory and 5 central processing unit hours to process 38 Gb [1 lane] of trimmed Illumina HiSeq2500 data) and is freely available at
https://github.com/dib-lab/SSUsearch
under a BSD license.
N-Terminal Presequence-Independent Import of Phosphofructokinase into Hydrogenosomes of Trichomonas vaginalis
Authors: Rada Petr , Makki Abhijith Radhakrishna , Zimorski Verena , Garg Sriram , Hampl Vladimír , Hrdý Ivan , Gould Sven B. , Tachezy Jan
Published: October 2015

Mitochondrial evolution entailed the origin of protein import machinery that allows nuclear-encoded proteins to be targeted to the organelle, as well as the origin of cleavable N-terminal targeting sequences (NTS) that allow efficient sorting and import of matrix proteins. In hydrogenosomes and mitosomes, reduced forms of mitochondria with reduced proteomes, NTS-independent targeting of matrix proteins is known. Here, we studied the cellular localization of two glycolytic enzymes in the anaerobic pathogen
Trichomonas vaginalis
: PP
i
-dependent phosphofructokinase (
Tv
PP
i
-PFK), which is the main glycolytic PFK activity of the protist, and ATP-dependent PFK (
Tv
ATP-PFK), the function of which is less clear.
Tv
PP
i
-PFK was detected predominantly in the cytosol, as expected, while all four
Tv
ATP-PFK paralogues were imported into
T. vaginalis
hydrogenosomes, although none of them possesses an NTS. The heterologous expression of
Tv
ATP-PFK in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
revealed an intrinsic capability of the protein to be recognized and imported into yeast mitochondria, whereas yeast ATP-PFK resides in the cytosol.
Tv
ATP-PFK consists of only a catalytic domain, similarly to “short” bacterial enzymes, while
Sc
ATP-PFK includes an N-terminal extension, a catalytic domain, and a C-terminal regulatory domain. Expression of the catalytic domain of
Sc
ATP-PFK and short
Escherichia coli
ATP-PFK in
T. vaginalis
resulted in their partial delivery to hydrogenosomes. These results indicate that
Tv
ATP-PFK and the homologous ATP-PFKs possess internal structural targeting information that is recognized by the hydrogenosomal import machinery. From an evolutionary perspective, the predisposition of ancient ATP-PFK to be recognized and imported into hydrogenosomes might be a relict from the early phases of organelle evolution.
Encephalitis in Australian children: contemporary trends in hospitalisation
Authors: Britton Philip N , Khoury Lynette , Booy Robert , Wood Nicholas , Jones Cheryl A
Published: October 2015

Objective

The clinical epidemiology of childhood encephalitis in Australia is inadequately understood. We aimed to describe recent trends in childhood encephalitis-related hospitalisation.

Study design

We identified encephalitis-related hospital admissions (2000–2012) in national datasets among children ≤14 years using ICD encephalitis codes. We calculated hospitalisation rates and analysed trends by year, age, gender, location, indigenous status and aetiology.

Results

Rates of childhood encephalitis hospitalisations significantly declined over an 11-year period (2000–2012; average hospitalisation rate 3.2/100 000). Varicella encephalitis hospitalisations decreased significantly, associated with high levels of varicella vaccine coverage since 2006. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) was the most common ‘specified’ cause of encephalitis hospitalisation (15%–17%), and its rate has significantly increased. The highest hospitalisation rates occurred in the <1 year age group (5.8/100 000) and varied by location (highest in Northern Territory). The majority (58.9%) of hospitalised encephalitis had no cause identified; this proportion was highest in the <1 year age group (77%). The most common specified infectious causes included: herpes simplex virus, enterovirus, bacterial meningoencephalitis and varicella. When aggregated, the proportion of childhood encephalitis coded as viral was 21.2%.

Conclusion

Hospitalisation of childhood encephalitis has slightly decreased in Australia. High rates of childhood immunisation have been associated with a reduction of varicella-associated encephalitis in Australian children. ADEM, an immune-mediated encephalitis, is the most common recognised cause of encephalitis in children. Young children (<1 year) have the highest admission rates. The high proportion of ‘unspecified’ encephalitis deaths and hospitalisations is an ongoing challenge.
DOUBLE BLIND RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL: INJECTION OF AUTOLOGOUS BLOOD IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC PATELLA TENDINOPATHY—A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Khanbhai T , Resteghini P , Mughal S , Sivardeen Z
Published: October 2015

Aim

Patella tendinopathy is a common cause of knee pain in athletes, with limited treatment options once rehabilitation methods have failed. We conducted a double blind randomised controlled study to assess the efficacy of Autologous Blood Injections (ABI) against saline in patients with chronic recalcitrant patella tendinopathy.

Methods

Patients with a diagnosis of refractory patellar tendinopathy were recruited between March 2010 and March 2012. Diagnosis was confirmed on ultrasound. All patients completed the Short-form McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ), a visual analogue scale (VAS) and a VISA-P scale. Using two practitioners, patients were randomised to either receive autologous blood or saline injections. All patients were followed up for 12 months with repeat assessments.

Results

22 patients completed the final review at 12-months and were included in the study. Subjects ranged in age from 22 and 61 years and were randomised to 11 in each autologous blood (ABI) and saline groups. ABI group had a mean duration of symptoms of 16.7 months whilst that of the saline group was 19.2 months. The saline group mean VAS score was reduced from 7.9 to 4.5 at 1 month (p=0.003) and 3.3 (p=0.005) at one year. With ABI, the score was reduced from 7.5 to 4.5 (p=0.005) at 1 month and 3.1 (p=0.003) at one year. VISA-P, MPQ and VAS scores were all significant in both groups.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that both the ABI and saline groups experienced a significant improvement in symptoms. However, when the results were compared there was no statistical difference between the two groups. This research provided an argument that it is the tendon fenestration that provides the therapeutic effect rather than the substance being injected.
PROMOTING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY WITHIN SCOTTISH HOSPITAL SETTINGS
Authors: White D
Published: October 2015

Aim

To embed the routine promotion of physical activity (PA) across secondary care settings in Scotland; to enable and inspire the workforce to contribute to national targets; and to encourage innovative and collaborative approaches across various clinical settings.

Methods

A simple, validated screening tool for inactivity was developed, and set within the new ‘National Physical Activity Pathway’. Poor staff confidence and expertise on the topic was identified through national engagement, and this was addressed with the development of an educational resource suite (DVD & facilitator notes; e-learning modules, etc).1 Revision of patient documentation was encouraged to increase opportunities for implementation of the PA Pathway. Facilitated local collaboration between clinical leads, health improvement staff, and Quality Improvement (QI) teams fostered new partnerships for action. A bespoke QI package was developed to support small-scale, developmental practice guided through improvement science, enabling systematic sharing and up-scaling of good practice. National guidance was issued to all health boards, detailing their obligations and the support available.

Results

A total of 3979 secondary care staff were trained in PA promotion and behaviour change within 12 months of the launch of the PA Pathway. The 'routine' promotion of physical activity increased from in only 9 clinical settings across 6 health boards, to 67 settings across all 15 Scottish health boards within the year. Documentation had been amended in 69 clinical settings.

Conclusions

Supporting the secondary care workforce to promote PA has seen early progress across a range of clinical settings and specialties. With PA promotion growing across Scottish hospital settings, evidencing the effectiveness of impact of this intervention is a priority allowing further momentum in the NHS contribution to a more active Scotland. Newly established local partnerships and national networks should allow for sustained progress moving forward.
BETHECHANGE
Authors: Griffin S
Published: October 2015

Aim

Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for non-communicable diseases and accounts for over 3 million preventable deaths each year.1 Healthcare professionals have an important role to play in increasing physical activity (PA) levels,2 and should be educated on the matter.3

Methods

BeTheChange was a pilot scheme aimed at increase the advocacy of PA as a healthcare tool by targeting both the education and practice of PA among medical students. An educational seminar was attended by 108 delegates (12 medical students).

Results

Only one felt that sufficient training had been provided on the matter and 100% felt more likely to advocate PA as a healthcare tool following the seminar. Twenty-two medical students attended a local gym using a free BeTheChange pass. Five students correctly identified the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) guidelines,4 but only one felt that sufficient training had been provided. A further four students thought that sufficient teaching was provided, yet were unable to correctly identify the CMO guidelines.

Conclusions

Despite a low sample size, knowledge of the CMO guidelines was low, and the majority of medical students did not feel as if they had received sufficient teaching on the matter. BeTheChange highlights the need for PA-related teaching in the undergraduate curriculum and warrants further investigation as a novel method of increasing the advocacy of PA among medical students.