bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social dominance alters nutrition‐related gene expression immediately: transcriptomic evidence from a monomorphic queenless ant
Authors: Okada Yasukazu , Watanabe Yutaka , Tin Mandy M. Y. , Tsuji Kazuki , Mikheyev Alexander S.
Published: December 2016

Queen–worker differentiation in eusocial organisms may have originated from decoupling of maternal care and reproductive behaviours. Recent advances in sequencing techniques have begun to elucidate the molecular basis of queen–worker differentiation. However, current knowledge of the molecular basis of caste differentiation is limited, especially to species with morphological castes. It seems likely that at the dawn of eusociality morphologically undifferentiated, monomorphic females underwent physiological differentiation that yielded egg‐laying and caretaking castes. The molecular basis of such physiological differentiation may provide evolutionary insight into the emergent state of eusociality. In this study, we identify genes associated with monomorphic caste differentiation, specifically focusing on the onset of queen–worker differentiation, using a monomorphic queenless ant, Diacamma sp., that secondarily lost morphological castes. Using individuals experimentally manipulated to become sterile or reproductive, we identified 1546 caste‐biased transcripts in brain and 10 in gaster. Because caste differentiation occurs in Diacamma soon after eclosion via behavioural dominance, identified transcripts are interpreted as molecular agents responding immediately to dominance rank formation. Among identified genes, expression levels of genes involved in nutrition processing and storage, such as insulin signalling genes and hexamerins, were strongly altered soon after dominance rank formation. We conclude that the rapid modification of nutrition‐related genes in response to social rank may be the fundamental mechanism underlying caste differentiation in Diacamma. Together with functional evidence from the literature, we show that a specific set of genes frequently plays a role in reproductive differentiation across systems with and without morphological castes.
Behavioural response to song and genetic divergence in two subspecies of white‐crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys)
Authors: Lipshutz Sara E. , Overcast Isaac A. , Hickerson Michael J. , Brumfield Robb T. , Derryberry Elizabeth P.
Published: December 2016

Divergence in sexual signals may drive reproductive isolation between lineages, but behavioural barriers can weaken in contact zones. Here, we investigate the role of song as a behavioural and genetic barrier in a contact zone between two subspecies of white‐crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys). We employed a reduced genomic data set to assess population structure and infer the history underlying divergence, gene flow and hybridization. We also measured divergence in song and tested behavioural responses to song using playback experiments within and outside the contact zone. We found that the subspecies form distinct genetic clusters, and demographic inference supported a model of secondary contact. Song phenotype, particularly length of the first note (a whistle), was a significant predictor of genetic subspecies identity and genetic distance along the hybrid zone, suggesting a close link between song and genetic divergence in this system. Individuals from both parental and admixed localities responded significantly more strongly to their own song than to the other subspecies song, supporting song as a behavioural barrier. Putative parental and admixed individuals were not significantly different in their strength of discrimination between own and other songs; however, individuals from admixed localities tended to discriminate less strongly, and this difference in discrimination strength was explained by song dissimilarity as well as genetic distance. Therefore, we find that song acts as a reproductive isolating mechanism that is potentially weakening in a contact zone between the subspecies. Our findings also support the hypothesis that intraspecific song variation can reduce gene flow between populations.
Expression of eukaryotic‐like protein in the microbiome of sponges
Authors: Díez‐Vives C. , Moitinho‐Silva L. , Nielsen S. , Reynolds D. , Thomas T.
Published: December 2016

Eukaryotic‐like proteins (ELPs) are classes of proteins that are found in prokaryotes, but have a likely evolutionary origin in eukaryotes. ELPs have been postulated to mediate host–microbiome interactions. Recent work has discovered that prokaryotic symbionts of sponges contain abundant and diverse genes for ELPs, which could modulate interactions with their filter‐feeding and phagocytic host. However, the extent to which these ELP genes are actually used and expressed by the symbionts is poorly understood. Here, we use metatranscriptomics to investigate ELP expression in the microbiomes of three different sponges (Cymbastella concentrica, Scopalina sp. and Tedania anhelens). We developed a workflow with optimized rRNA removal and in silico subtraction of host sequences to obtain a reliable symbiont metatranscriptome. This showed that between 1.3% and 2.3% of all symbiont transcripts contain genes for ELPs. Two classes of ELPs (cadherin and tetratricopeptide repeats) were abundantly expressed in the C. concentrica and Scopalina sp. microbiomes, while ankyrin repeat ELPs were predominant in the T. anhelens metatranscriptome. Comparison with transcripts that do not encode ELPs indicated a constitutive expression of ELPs across a range of bacterial and archaeal symbionts. Expressed ELPs also contained domains involved in protein secretion and/or were co‐expressed with proteins involved in extracellular transport. This suggests these ELPs are likely exported, which could allow for direct interaction with the sponge. Our study shows that ELP genes in sponge symbionts represent actively expressed functions that could mediate molecular interaction between symbiosis partners.
Capillary endothelial cells as coordinators of skeletal muscle blood flow during active hyperemia
Authors: Murrant Coral L. , Lamb Iain R. , Novielli Nicole M.
Published: December 2016

In this invited review, we explore the burgeoning possibility of capillary endothelial cells as coordinators of skeletal muscle blood flow in response to muscle contraction. The idea that the capillary is an active vascular unit in skeletal muscle microcirculation starkly diverges from the traditional dogma that seats arterioles as the central controllers of blood flow during exercise. This review aims to incite discussion as we revisit and rethink the role of capillary endothelial cells in skeletal muscle. We discuss the potential for a mismatch in the architectural relationships between the arteriolar microvasculature and contracting motor units that would negate consistent communication between them. We review the data from the past two decades demonstrating that capillaries are ideally located architecturally to communicate with skeletal muscle fibers and are mechanistically capable of signaling upstream arterioles that control their own perfusion. We show that the orchestration of a coordinated vascular response necessary to support active skeletal muscle fibers cannot be achieved by the arterioles, but rather it is the capillaries that drive the blood flow response to muscle contraction. Thus, capillaries need to be seriously considered as critical in the coordination of skeletal muscle blood flow during active hyperemia.
Identification of a U/Zn/Cu responsive global regulatory two‐component system in Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Park Dan M. , Overton K. Wesley , Liou Megan J. , Jiao Yongqin
Published: December 2016

Despite the well‐known toxicity of uranium (U) to bacteria, little is known about how cells sense and respond to U. The recent finding of a U‐specific stress response in Caulobacter crescentus has provided a foundation for studying the mechanisms of U‐ perception in bacteria. To gain insight into this process, we used a forward genetic screen to identify the regulatory components governing expression of the urcA promoter (PurcA) that is strongly induced by U. This approach unearthed a previously uncharacterized two‐component system, named UzcRS, which is responsible for U‐dependent activation of PurcA. UzcRS is also highly responsive to zinc and copper, revealing a broader specificity than previously thought. Using ChIP‐seq, we found that UzcR binds extensively throughout the genome in a metal‐dependent manner and recognizes a noncanonical DNA‐binding site. Coupling the genome‐wide occupancy data with RNA‐seq analysis revealed that UzcR is a global regulator of transcription, predominately activating genes encoding proteins that are localized to the cell envelope; these include metallopeptidases, multidrug‐resistant efflux (MDR) pumps, TonB‐dependent receptors and many proteins of unknown function. Collectively, our data suggest that UzcRS couples the perception of U, Zn and Cu with a novel extracytoplasmic stress response.
Chronic kidney disease in neurogenic bladder
Authors: Sung Bong Mo , Oh Dong‐Jin , Choi Moon Hee , Choi Hye Min
Published: December 2016

Aim

It was believed that neurogenic bladder (NB) might be a risk factor of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, data are limited regarding the real incidence or risk of CKD in NB. In addition, serum creatinine (sCr), a classical marker of renal function, is not reliable in NB patients because they present muscle wasting due to disuse or denervation. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of CKD in NB patients using serum Cystatin‐C. Secondly, we aimed to identify the risk factors for CKD development in NB.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study in a public hospital, a specialized center for patients who were victims of industrial accidents. Serum Cystatin‐C was checked at the regular laboratory test in the structured NB programme of the hospital, and 313 patients were included in the study.

Results

The overall prevalence of CKD, defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60/mL per 1.73m2 was 8.0% and 22.4%, by sCr‐based and Cystain‐C‐based eGFR, respectively, and was greater than age‐matched general population in Korea. sCr was not able to detect the early deterioration of renal function in NB patients. Co‐morbid diabetes, small bladder volume, recurrent urinary tract infection, and proteinuria were significantly associated with CKD in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

Chronic kidney disease prevalence was more than three times higher in NB patients than in the general population despite recent progress in the medical care of NB. Co‐morbid diabetes, small bladder volume, recurrent urinary tract infection, and proteinuria seem to be the risk factors for CKD development in NB.
Tacrolimus improves proteinuria remission in adults with cyclosporine A‐resistant or ‐dependent minimal change disease
Authors: Xu Dechao , Gao Xiang , Bian Rongrong , Mei Changlin , Xu Chenggang
Published: December 2016

Aims

Cyclosporin A (CsA) is considered as an effective treatment option for steroid‐resistant or‐dependent patients with adult‐onset minimal change disease (MCD). However, CsA resistance or dependence is also observed in these patients. Tacrolimus (TAC) is a calcineurin inhibitor that is potent in cytokine suppression. The authors aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TAC therapy in CsA‐resistant and‐dependent adult‐onset MCD patients.

Methods

Patients with adult‐onset MCD were enrolled in our department from 2008 to 2012. All patients were demonstrated to be resistant to or dependent on CsA therapy. Prednisone (0.5 mg/kg per day) combined with TAC (0.05–0.1 mg/kg per day) were prescribed to these patients for at least 6 months. The primary outcome was complete or partial remission of proteinuria. Secondary outcomes included time required for complete or partial remission, adverse events, number of relapses, and TAC dosages.

Results

A total of 11 MCD patients were enrolled in this observational study. The numbers of patients who presented with resistance to or dependence on CsA were 7 and 4, respectively. The total remission rate was 90.9% (10/11) with the complete remission rate 72.7% (8/11). Most remission patients achieved remission during the first 2 months of TAC therapy. Patients who presented with dependence on CsA had achieved complete remission with TAC therapy, while outcomes for CsA‐resistant patients were four complete remissions, two partial remissions and one resistance. The adverse events were observed in this study included infection, diarrhoea, and worsened hypertension. Five patients who had remission experienced relapse.

Conclusions

Tacrolimus improves proteinuria remission in adults with CsA‐resistant or ‐dependent MCD.
Evolutionary ecology of virus emergence
Authors: Dennehy John J.
Published: December 2016

The cross‐species transmission of viruses into new host populations, termed virus emergence, is a significant issue in public health, agriculture, wildlife management, and related fields. Virus emergence requires overlap between host populations, alterations in virus genetics to permit infection of new hosts, and adaptation to novel hosts such that between‐host transmission is sustainable, all of which are the purview of the fields of ecology and evolution. A firm understanding of the ecology of viruses and how they evolve is required for understanding how and why viruses emerge. In this paper, I address the evolutionary mechanisms of virus emergence and how they relate to virus ecology. I argue that, while virus acquisition of the ability to infect new hosts is not difficult, limited evolutionary trajectories to sustained virus between‐host transmission and the combined effects of mutational meltdown, bottlenecking, demographic stochasticity, density dependence, and genetic erosion in ecological sinks limit most emergence events to dead‐end spillover infections. Despite the relative rarity of pandemic emerging viruses, the potential of viruses to search evolutionary space and find means to spread epidemically and the consequences of pandemic viruses that do emerge necessitate sustained attention to virus research, surveillance, prophylaxis, and treatment.
SOCIAL TRUST, IMPARTIAL ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN EU CRISIS MANAGEMENT INSTITUTIONS
Authors: PERSSON THOMAS , PARKER CHARLES F. , WIDMALM STEN
Published: December 2016

In this article, we investigate whether differences in social trust and impartial public administration have an impact on public confidence in EU crisis management institutions. Our assessment is based on a cross‐country comparison using aggregate country‐level data of the member states in the European Union. Earlier studies on the EU as a crisis manager have not carefully studied to what extent differences in social trust and administrative culture may or may not matter. Our analysis shows that in countries where citizens are treated impartially by their own national public administration institutions, people are less likely to support EU‐coordinated civil protection efforts. In contrast, in places where citizens perceive their government's treatment of them as partial and unfair, citizens will tend to support EU‐coordinated civil protection.
Linkage drag constrains the roots of modern wheat
Authors: Voss‐Fels Kai P. , Qian Lunwen , Parra‐Londono Sebastian , Uptmoor Ralf , Frisch Matthias , Keeble‐Gagnère Gabriel , Appels Rudi , Snowdon Rod J.
Published: December 2016

Roots, the hidden half of crop plants, are essential for resource acquisition. However, knowledge about the genetic control of below‐ground plant development in wheat, one of the most important small‐grain crops in the world, is very limited. The molecular interactions connecting root and shoot development and growth, and thus modulating the plant's demand for water and nutrients along with its ability to access them, are largely unexplored. Here, we demonstrate that linkage drag in European bread wheat, driven by strong selection for a haplotype variant controlling heading date, has eliminated a specific combination of two flanking, highly conserved haplotype variants whose interaction confers increased root biomass. Reversing this inadvertent consequence of selection could recover root diversity that may prove essential for future food production in fluctuating environments. Highly conserved synteny to rice across this chromosome segment suggests that adaptive selection has shaped the diversity landscape of this locus across different, globally important cereal crops. By mining wheat gene expression data, we identified root‐expressed genes within the region of interest that could help breeders to select positive variants adapted to specific target soil environments.
Ice and anti‐nucleating activities of an ice‐binding protein from the annual grass, Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Bredow Melissa , Tomalty Heather E. , Smith Lindsay , Walker Virginia K.
Published: December 2016

Plants exposed to sub‐zero temperatures face unique challenges that threaten their survival. The growth of ice crystals in the extracellular space can cause cellular dehydration, plasma membrane rupture and eventual cell death. Additionally, some pathogenic bacteria cause tissue damage by initiating ice crystal growth at high sub‐zero temperatures through the use of ice‐nucleating proteins (INPs), presumably to access nutrients from lysed cells. An annual species of brome grass, Brachypodium distachyon (Bd), produces an ice‐binding protein (IBP) that shapes ice with a modest depression of the freezing point (~0.1 °C at 1 mg/mL), but high ice‐recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity, allowing ice crystals to remain small at near melting temperatures. This IBP, known as BdIRI, is unlike other characterized IBPs with a single ice‐binding face, as mutational analysis indicates that BdIRI adsorbs to ice on two faces. BdIRI also dramatically attenuates the nucleation of ice by bacterial INPs (up to −2.26 °C). This ‘anti‐nucleating’ activity is significantly higher than previously documented for any IBP.
High‐throughput sequencing allowed the completion of the genome of grapevine Red Globe virus and revealed recurring co‐infection with other tymoviruses in grapevine
Authors: Cretazzo E. , Velasco L.
Published: December 2016

Grapevine Red Globe virus (GRGV) is a member of family Tymoviridae tentatively assigned to genus Maculavirus. There is evidence that the distribution of this virus may be widespread. In a recent report, the authors of the present study described the presence of GRGV in Spain. To further estimate its incidence, a survey was carried out that allowed the detection of the virus using RT‐PCR in a germplasm collection in northern Spain. In the present study, three isolates were selected to obtain full‐length genome sequences using high‐throughput sequencing (HTS) of RNA combined with Sanger sequencing. The GRGV complete genome consists of 6850 nucleotides, excluding the polyA tail. Two ORFs could be identified as the putative replicase and coat protein. Although comparison of the complete genomes provided no evidence for the presence of the additional ORF previously described, another ORF was identified within the coat protein ORF, but it probably lacks functional significance. Phylogenetic analysis supported the ascription of GRGV to genus Maculavirus. The profile of vsiRNA (virus‐derived small interfering RNA) distribution along the GRGV genomes suggested the presence of a subgenomic RNA corresponding to the coat protein ORF. To improve detection of GRGV, new primer sets were designed based on consensus sequences. HTS revealed a frequent co‐infection of GRGV and grapevine rupestris vein feathering virus (GRVFV). Biological indexing by grafting two GRGV‐infected vines on indicator plants and the visual inspection of symptoms in other infected plants revealed that the virus has a negligible impact on grapevine.
RNA interference in shrimp and potential applications in aquaculture
Authors: Nguyen Dung Viet , Christiaens Olivier , Bossier Peter , Smagghe Guy
Published: December 2016

As the RNA interference mechanism was discovered, researchers have made huge strides in unravelling biological mechanisms at the gene level in a wide range of organisms. RNAi is a simple and rapid method that allows silencing gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level and is triggered by the introduction of double‐stranded RNA into the cell, leading to the degradation of the corresponding mRNA. In this review, we will provide an overview of successful RNAi experiments to date in Crustacea, and shrimp in particular, with special focus on various potential applications of RNA interference in research and aquaculture. An important aspect of RNAi in any species is the delivery of the double‐stranded RNA and the barriers that have to be overcome to get the dsRNA into the target cells. Different options, experimental procedures, success rates and challenges in using RNAi are discussed in this review.
Total evidence phylogenetic analysis and reclassification of Euschistus Dallas within Carpocorini (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae: Pentatominae)
Authors: BIANCHI FILIPE M. , DEPRÁ MARÍNDIA , FERRARI AUGUSTO , GRAZIA JOCELIA , VALENTE VERA L. S. , CAMPOS LUIZ A.
Published: December 2016

Robust phylogenetic hypotheses have become key for studies addressing the evolutionary biology and ecology of various groups of organisms. In the species‐rich heteropteran superfamily Pentatomoidea, phylogenies at lower taxonomic levels are still scarce and mostly employ exclusively morphological data. In this study, we conducted a total evidence phylogeny focusing on the tribe Carpocorini (Pentatomidae), using morphological data and four DNA markers (COI, Cytb, 16S and 28S rDNA; ∼2330 bp; 32 taxa) in order to investigate the relationships within Euschistus Dallas, one of the most speciose pentatomid genera, and between Euschistus and related genera. Our hypotheses generated by maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference show that the current taxonomic composition and classification of Euschistus and allied genera are in need of revision. Euschistus was recovered as nonmonophyletic, with the subgenera forming four independent lineages: Euschistus (Euschistus) and Euschistus (Lycipta) Stål are sister groups; Euschistus (Euschistomorphus) Jensen‐Haarup is more closely related to Dichelops Spinola and Agroecus Dallas; and Mitripus Rolston is divided into two clades closely related to Sibaria Stål and Ladeaschistus Rolston. We chose not to change the classification of E. (Euschistomorphus) until further data become available, and propose to split Euschistus into three genera with the exclusion of Euschistus (Mitripus) and all of its species. Here we elevate Mitripus to genus rank to include M. acutus comb.n., M. convergens comb.n. and M. legionarius comb.n., and propose Adustonotus Bianchi gen.n. to include A. anticus comb.n., A. latus comb.n., A. tauricornis comb.n., A. grandis comb.n., A. hansi comb.n., A. paranticus comb.n., A. irroratus comb.n. and A. saramagoi comb.n. We also provide identification keys to the genera Adustonotus gen.n., Ladeaschistus, Mitripus n. rank and Sibaria, here defined as the Mitripus genus group, and to the species of Mitripus and Adustonotus gen.n. Our results provide insights into the current status of the classification of the Pentatomidae, suggesting the need for phylogenetic analyses at different taxonomic levels within stink bugs.

This published work has been registered in ZooBank, http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:E09D2675‐0F2B‐4AAE‐9837‐257E0B18BC52.
Green fluorescent protein‐tagged apolipoprotein E: A useful marker for the study of hepatic lipoprotein egress
Authors: Takacs Constantin N. , Andreo Ursula , Belote Rachel L. , Pulupa Joan , Scull Margaret A. , Gleason Caroline E. , Rice Charles M. , Simon Sanford M.
Published: December 2016

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE), a component of very‐low‐density and high‐density lipoproteins, participates in many aspects of lipid transport in the bloodstream. Underscoring its important functions, ApoE isoforms have been associated with metabolic and circulatory disease. ApoE is also incorporated into hepatitis C virus (HCV) particles, and promotes their production and infectivity. Live cell imaging analysis of ApoE behavior during secretion from producing cells thus has the potential to reveal important details regarding lipoprotein and HCV particle biogenesis and secretion from cells. However, this approach requires expression of fluorescently tagged ApoE constructs that need to faithfully reproduce known ApoE behaviors. Herein, we evaluate the usefulness of using an ApoE‐GFP fusion protein in studying hepatocyte‐derived, ApoE‐containing lipoproteins and HCV particles. We show that while ApoE‐GFP alone is not sufficient to support infectious HCV production, it nonetheless colocalizes intracellularly and associates with secreted untagged lipoprotein components. Furthermore, its rate of secretion from hepatic cells is indistinguishable from that of untagged ApoE. ApoE‐GFP thus represents a useful marker for ApoE‐containing hepatic lipoproteins.
Prevalence of hepatitis E virus infection among blood donors in mainland China: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Longmu , Jiao Shuxian , Yang Zhongsi , Xu Lei , Liu Li , Feng Qiuxia , Zhang Xia , Hou Yun , He Shuyi , Saldanha John , Wang Shuang , Wang Bin
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

The risk of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection from blood transfusion has raised increasing concern in many countries. Several transfusion‐transmitted cases have been described in the United Kingdom and Japan. The objective was to investigate the prevalence of HEV infection among Chinese blood donors and analyze the potential risk of HEV infection through blood transfusion in China.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Major English and Chinese research databases were used as background research for the study of locations, years, and the number of HEV infections among blood donors in China. The pooled, estimated rate of HEV infection was calculated. Subgroup analyses, for age, sex, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were performed using software for comprehensive meta‐analysis.

RESULTS

The pooled rates of anti‐HEV IgM– and anti‐HEV IgG–positive donations were 1.09% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.95%‐1.26%) and 30% (95% CI, 25%‐34%), respectively. The prevalence of anti‐HEV IgM was significantly higher in donors with elevated ALT (4.34%) compared with the rate in donors with normal ALT (1.35%; χ2 = 39.66, p < 0.01). The anti‐HEV IgM and IgG rates were higher in the Southwest region (1.58 and 41%, respectively) compared to the rates in other regions of China (chi‐square test, p < 0.05). The anti‐HEV IgG rate was also significantly higher in donors 30 years and older compared with donors between 18 and 29 years of age (39% vs. 22%, respectively; χ2 = 1457.10, p < 0.01). Genetic analysis of HEV from RNA‐positive donors indicated that the majority of HEV infections were Genotype 1 (19/33 = 58%), while the remaining 14 isolates were Genotype 4 (14/33 = 42%; χ2 = 0.758, p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Qualified donations after routine blood donor screening still carry a potential risk for transmitting HEV. The major genotypes in Chinese donors in this study were Genotypes 1 and 4.
Reducing liberal red blood cell transfusions at an academic medical center
Authors: Saag Harry S. , Lajam Claudette M. , Jones Simon , Lakomkin Nikita , Bosco Joseph A. , Wallack Rebecca , Frangos Spiros G. , Sinha Prashant , Adler Nicole , Ursomanno Patti , Horwitz Leora I. , Volpicelli Frank M.
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

Educational and computerized interventions have been shown to reduce red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rates, yet controversy remains surrounding the optimal strategy needed to achieve sustained reductions in liberal transfusions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of clinician decision support (CDS) along with targeted education on liberal RBC utilization to four high‐utilizing service lines compared with no education to control service lines across an academic medical center. Clinical data along with associated hemoglobin levels at the time of all transfusion orders between April 2014 and December 2015 were obtained via retrospective chart review. The primary outcome was the change in the rate of liberal RBC transfusion orders (defined as any RBC transfusion when the hemoglobin level is >7.0 g/dL). Secondary outcomes included the annual projected reduction in the number of transfusions and the associated decrease in cost due to these changes as well as length of stay (LOS) and death index. These measures were compared between the 12 months prior to the initiative and the 9‐month postintervention period.

RESULTS

Liberal RBC utilization decreased from 13.4 to 10.0 units per 100 patient discharges (p = 0.002) across the institution, resulting in a projected 12‐month savings of $720,360. The mean LOS and the death index did not differ significantly in the postintervention period.

CONCLUSION

Targeted education combined with the incorporation of CDS at the time of order entry resulted in significant reductions in the incidence of liberal RBC utilization without adversely impacting inpatient care, whereas control service lines exposed only to CDS had no change in transfusion habits.
Electrical properties related to growth defects in metamorphic GaSb films on Si
Authors: Sasaki Shun , Dropiewski Katie , Madisetti Shailesh , Tokranov Vadim , Yakimov Michael , Oktyabrsky Serge , Bentley Steven , Galatage Rohit , Jacob Ajey P.
Published: December 2016

This paper reports on correlation of growth-related defects and electrical properties in GaSb films grown on different Si substrates using metamorphic buffers. Large lattice mismatch between GaSb and Si (∼11%) results in the formation of threading dislocations (TDs) and microtwins (MTs) along with antiphase domains due to the lack of inversion symmetry in III-V's. The defect density profiles were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The TD density of just below 108 cm−2 and MT density below 104 cm−1 were found in 2.1 μm thick structures, and were found to be four times higher than in similar GaSb structures on GaAs substrates. Hole density and mobility profiles were obtained using differential Hall method and show that dislocations (TDs or MT partials) generate about 25 acceptors/nm. Minimum midgap interface trap density values are similar in the metal-oxide-semiconductor structures prepared on GaAs and Si, ∼2 × 1012 cm2 eV−1.
Effect of reactor pressure on the conformal coating inside porous substrates by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Poodt Paul , Mameli Alfredo , Schulpen Jeff , Kessels W. M. M. (Erwin) , Roozeboom Fred
Published: December 2016

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is renowned for its step coverage in porous substrates. Several emerging applications require a combination of this high step coverage with high throughput ALD, like spatial ALD. Often, high throughput ALD is performed at atmospheric pressure, and therefore, the effect of reactor pressure on the saturation dose is investigated. ALD inside porous substrates is governed by three key parameters: the reaction probability, the pore aspect ratio, and the precursor diffusion coefficient, of which the latter one contains the reactor pressure dependency. The effect of these parameters on the saturation dose is validated using Monte Carlo modeling, where the reactor pressure dependency is included through the mean free path. A reaction-limited and a diffusion-limited regime can be identified, and it is shown that for many realistic experimental conditions, even at low reactor pressures, the saturation dose is in the diffusion-limited regime. An expression for the pressure dependent saturation dose in the diffusion-limited regime is derived. For small pore diameters, the saturation dose is pressure independent, but for larger pores, higher saturation doses are required for atmospheric reactor pressures than for low reactor pressures. However, as high reactor pressures enable much higher precursor partial pressures than low reactor pressures, the resulting saturation times can be much shorter at atmospheric pressure than low pressure. Often, high surface area porous substrates will lead to supply limited conditions, and increased saturation times have to be taken into account. These results show that the atmospheric pressure ALD can be used for high throughput ALD inside porous substrates, as long as high precursor partial pressures and molar flows can be applied. This is experimentally demonstrated by a near 100% step coverage obtained by atmospheric spatial ALD of alumina in high aspect ratio pores.
Contrasting transparent conductive properties of ZnO films on amorphous and crystalline substrates in view of thickness dependence
Authors: Akazawa Housei
Published: December 2016

The authors conducted comparative studies on ZnO films deposited on various substrates to elucidate how the different nucleation and crystallization processes affect their transparent conductive properties. The resistivity versus thickness curves of Ga-doped ZnO films deposited on a-SiNx:H films and glass substrates coincided within the experimental error. This result means that as long as the amorphous substrate is neither reactive with the deposited film nor providing crystalline seeds, resistivity is determined only by self-crystallization. In contrast, the resistivity of undoped ZnO films on sapphire c-planes was about half that on glass substrate even when the films were deposited at room temperature, indicating that the crystal template of sapphire stimulates local crystallization of ZnO films, though they are not epitaxial. With regard to the dependence on deposition temperature, a sudden drop in carrier concentration of undoped ZnO films was commonly observed between 200 and 300 °C for both glass and sapphire substrates, as a result of eliminating crystal disorder that facilitates holding donors. A significant difference was manifested between 300 and 500 °C; ZnO films on glass were nearly insulating, whereas those on sapphire were conductive, reflecting higher mobility and more reduced state. On sapphire substrates, the resistivity and sheet resistance versus thickness curves exhibited a monotonic decrease below 200 °C, whereas a plateau region appeared between 20 and 100 nm at 300 and 400 °C. This corresponds to the existence of electrically dead or inactive region near the interface probably because of depletion of carriers in the lattice-matched epitaxial layer. ZnO films became well conductive only when they were sufficiently thick.
Diffusion tensor imaging reveals changes in the adult rat brain following long-term and passive moderate acoustic exposure
Authors: Abdoli Sherwin , Ho Leon C. , Zhang Jevin W. , Dong Celia M. , Lau Condon , Wu Ed X.
Published: December 2016

This study investigated neuroanatomical changes following long-term acoustic exposure at moderate sound pressure level (SPL) under passive conditions, without coupled behavioral training. The authors utilized diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to detect morphological changes in white matter. DTIs from adult rats (n = 8) exposed to continuous acoustic exposure at moderate SPL for 2 months were compared with DTIs from rats (n = 8) reared under standard acoustic conditions. Two distinct forms of DTI analysis were applied in a sequential manner. First, DTI images were analyzed using voxel-based statistics which revealed greater fractional anisotropy (FA) of the pyramidal tract and decreased FA of the tectospinal tract and trigeminothalamic tract of the exposed rats. Region of interest analysis confirmed (p < 0.05) that FA had increased in the pyramidal tract but did not show a statistically significant difference in the FA of the tectospinal or trigeminothalamic tract. The results of the authors show that long-term and passive acoustic exposure at moderate SPL increases the organization of white matter in the pyramidal tract.
Draft Genome Sequences of Biosafety Level 2 Opportunistic Pathogens Isolated from the Environmental Surfaces of the International Space Station
Authors: Checinska Sielaff Aleksandra , Singh Nitin K. , Allen Jonathan E. , Thissen James , Jaing Crystal , Venkateswaran Kasthuri
Published: December 2016

The draft genome sequences of 20 biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) opportunistic pathogens isolated from the environmental surfaces of the International Space Station (ISS) were presented. These genomic sequences will help in understanding the influence of microgravity on the pathogenicity and virulence of these strains when compared with Earth strains.
Genome Sequence of a Virulent Genotype III Newcastle Disease Virus Isolated from Laying Ducks in China
Authors: Wen Guoyuan , Wang Min , Wang Honglin , Li Lintao , Luo Qingping , Zhang Tengfei , Cheng Guofu , Shao Huabin
Published: December 2016

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of a virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strain HN1007, isolated from diseased duck flocks in Henan, China, in 2010. The isolate has a genome length of 15,186 nucleotides, and was classified as a member of genotype III of class II.
Simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty dislocation with unilateral foot drop following closed reduction
Authors: Smith Alexander Edward , Buckle Christopher , Hester Thomas , Slater Guy
Published: December 2016

Dislocation following primary and revision arthroplasty is a well-recognised complication with an estimated incidence rate of 0.2–10%. We present a rare case of simultaneous bilateral total hip replacement dislocation, complicated by unilateral foot drop following closed reduction, with no improvement in neurological function at 6-month follow-up.
Optical properties of 3rd order Kerr hexagonal nonlinear photonic crystal fiber containing metal
Authors: Dixit Achyutesh , Tiwari Subhashish , Pandey Praveen Chandra
Published: December 2016

This work presents salient features of a new photonic crystal fiber composed of silica in background and coating of gold in holes. This has been done by computing the effective refractive index of semi-vectorial wave propagation equation using the dielectric properties of these materials by finite difference method under analytical boundary condition. The effect of the different filling factor of gold and also the effect of intensity on wave propagation are analyzed respectively with the same adequate physical condition. These results should be useful in obtaining the flattened dispersion with a small effective area in the presence of nonlinearity.
Photophysical and photochemical properties of novel peripherally triethyleneoxysulfanyl substituted monomeric and Si–Si bonded dimeric silicon phthalocyanines
Authors: Büyükekşi Sebile Işık , Durmuş Mahmut , Atilla Devrim
Published: December 2016

Monomeric and Si–Si bonded dimeric silicon(IV) phthalocyanines bearing 4[Formula: see text],7[Formula: see text],10[Formula: see text]-trioxaundecylsulfanyl groups were synthesized. These novel phthalocyanine derivatives were characterized by general analysis methods such as FT-IR, MALDI-TOF or HRMS, 1H NMR and UV-vis electronic absorption. Their aggregation behaviors were described in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). In addition, the photophysical and photochemical properties of these phthalocyanines were also investigated in DMSO to determine potential of these phthalocyanines to acts as photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cancer. Their high singlet oxygen generation demonstrated their suitability for PDT applications. These peripherally 4[Formula: see text],7[Formula: see text],10[Formula: see text]-trioxaundecylsulfanyl substituted silicon(IV) phthalocyanines are promising Type II photosensitizers owing to their favorable singlet oxygen generation capability. In addition, their fluorescence quenching behavior by 1,4-benzoquinone were also studied in DMSO.
Synthesis, characterization and metal ion sensing properties of novel pyridone derivatives phthalocyanines
Authors: Mızrak Büşra , Ağar Meltem , Altindal Ahmet , Abdurrahmanoğlu Şaziye
Published: December 2016

The design of novel substituted phthalocyanines closely follows the requirement of their planned applications. In this study, synthesize of novel pyridone derivatives metal-free and symmetrical cobalt(II) phthalocyanines was carried out to improve brightness. For this purpose; starting with 4-nitrophthalonitrile and 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-3-nitro-2-pyridone, 4-(6-methyl-3-nitro-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yloxy)phthalonitrile was prepared. Then 2(3),9(10),16(17),23(24)-tetrakis[6-methyl-3-nitro-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yloxy] metal-free phthalocyaninato and 2(3),9(10), 16(17),23(24)-tetrakis[6-methyl-3-nitro-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yloxy] phthalocyaninato Co(II) were synthesized by using 4-(6-methyl-3-nitro-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yloxy)phthalonitrile, lithium metal and cobalt(II) acetate tetrahydrate in amyl alcohol, respectively. The sensing behavior of the film of derivatives metal-free and symmetrical cobalt(II) phthalocyanines for the online detection of heavy metal ions in water samples was investigated by utilizing an AT-cut quartz crystal resonator. It was observed that the adsorption of the analytes on the coating surface cause a reversible negative frequency shift of the resonator. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) functionalized with phthalocyanine, derivatives metal-free and symmetrical cobalt(II) phthalocyanines, are demonstrated to be sensors for the detection of heavy metal ions like Cd[Formula: see text], Zn[Formula: see text], Cu[Formula: see text], Cr[Formula: see text] and Co[Formula: see text]. Thus, QCM based sensor arrays are considered a promising platform for the direct analysis of aqueous samples.
Environmental Hazards, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction: J. K. Mitchell’s Relevance to the Global Sustainable Development Agenda
Authors: Uitto Juha I.
Published: December 2016

This paper argues how Mitchell’s work on complex disasters and environmental hazards is highly relevant to the global Sustainable Development Agenda and the international organizations involved in its implementation. The paper takes as its starting point two United Nations University projects led by Mitchell in the 1990s and reviews their prescience in terms of current developments in the context of urbanizations, economic development, population growth, and global environmental change. The issue of adaptation to climate change is highlighted as exemplifying the importance of integrated approaches encompassing human and natural systems, as advocated by Mitchell. Challenges to program and policy evaluation are then discussed with regard to adaptation, adopting Mitchell’s approach of understanding local situations while anchoring evaluation in scientific knowledge.
Extracellular vesicles in liver diseases
Authors: Maji Sayantan , Matsuda Akiko , Yan Irene K. , Parasramka Mansi , Patel Tushar
Published: December 2016

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound vesicles that are released by cells into their extracellular environment, have selective enrichment of specific proteins and RNA, and can mediate intercellular communication. In this review we highlight recent observations of the role of EVs in liver injury, viral hepatitis, alcoholic or nonalcoholic liver disease, biliary tract disease, and liver cancers. Potential applications as markers of diseases or for therapeutic applications are outlined to emphasize the new opportunities that are arising from the study of EVs.
Inhibition of sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling ameliorates murine nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Mauer Amy S. , Hirsova Petra , Maiers Jessica L. , Shah Vijay H. , Malhi Harmeet
Published: December 2016

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a lipotoxic disorder, wherein proinflammatory lipids, such as ceramide and its derivative sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), contribute to macrophage-associated liver inflammation. For example, we have previously demonstrated a role for S1P in steatotic hepatocyte-derived S1P-enriched extracellular vesicles in macrophage chemotaxis in vitro. Therefore, we hypothesized that FTY720, an S1P antagonist, would ameliorate NASH by inhibiting proinflammatory monocyte chemotaxis. To test our hypothesis, NASH was established in C57BL/6 male mice by feeding a diet high in fructose, saturated fat, and cholesterol for 22 wk. Then mice received daily intraperitoneal injections of FTY720 for 2 wk before analysis of liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. FTY720-treated mice with NASH demonstrated improved liver histology with a significant reduction in hepatocyte ballooning and inflammatory foci. Hepatomegaly was reversed, and liver triglycerides were reduced following FTY720 administration to mice with NASH. Correspondingly, serum ALT levels, hepatic inflammatory macrophage accumulation, and the expression of Ly6C in recruited myeloid cells was reduced in FTY720-treated mice. Hepatic collagen accumulation and expression of α-smooth muscle actin were significantly lowered as well. Body composition, energy consumption and utilization, and hepatic sphingolipid composition remained unchanged following FTY720 administration. FTY720 ameliorates murine nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Reduction in liver injury and inflammation is associated with a reduction in hepatic macrophage accumulation, likely due to dampened recruitment of circulating myeloid cells into the liver. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis may be a novel indication for the therapeutic use of FTY720.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY There are no approved pharmacologic therapies for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. This study describes the use of FTY720, a novel small molecule, for the amelioration of NASH in a mouse model. We demonstrate that 2-wk administration of FTY720 to mice with NASH led to a reduction in liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. These data provide a preclinical rationale for studying this drug in human NASH.
Potential roles of enteric glia in bridging neuroimmune communication in the gut
Authors: Chow Aaron K. , Gulbransen Brian D.
Published: December 2016

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is a network of neurons and glia that controls ongoing gastrointestinal (GI) functions. Damage or injury to the ENS can lead to functional GI disorders. Current data support the conclusion that many functional GI disorders are caused by an imbalance between gut microbes and the immune system, but how the ENS is involved in these interactions is less understood. Because of the proximity of the ENS to bacteria and other foreign antigens in the GI tract, it is important to prevent the passage of these antigens through the GI epithelium. If any foreign compounds manage to pass through the GI epithelium, an immune response is triggered to prevent injury to the ENS and underlying structures. However, careful modulation of the inflammatory response is required to allow for adequate elimination of foreign antigens while avoiding inappropriate overactivation of the immune system as in autoimmune disorders. Enteric neurons and glial cells are capable of performing these immunomodulatory functions to provide adequate protection to the ENS. We review recent studies examining the interactions between the ENS and the immune system, with specific focus on enteric glial cells and their ability to modulate inflammation in the ENS.