bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and implementation of atmospheric multi-parameter sensor for UAV-based aerosol distribution detection
Authors: Yu Fangjie , Liu Yunfei , Fan Longqing , Li Linhua , Han Yong , Chen Ge
Published: April 2017

Purpose

In this paper, a light-weight, low-power atmospheric multi-parameter sensor (AMPS), which could be mounted on small flying platforms such as a tethered balloon, a quad-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a UAV helicopter, etc., is implemented and integrated to sample vertical distribution of aerosols with integrated parameters of aerosol particle concentration, temperature, relative humidity and atmospheric pressure.

Design/methodology/approach

The AMPS integrates three kinds of probes in an embedded system. A synchronous method based on GPS is proposed to drive the laser aerosol particle sensor, the temperature and humidity probe and the pressure probe to sample four channels approximately simultaneously. Different kinds of housing are designed to accommodate various flying platforms, and the weight is controlled to adapt the payload of each platform.

Findings

A series of validation tests show that while the AMPS achieves high precision, its power consumption is less than 1.3 W, which is essential for light flying platforms. The AMPS was mounted on different flying platforms and the difference was evaluated. For three times every five days, vertical profiles of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were observed by the AMPS mounted on a quad-rotor UAV, which revealed the significant correlation between the aerosol particle concentration and atmospheric parameters.

Originality/value

A new light-weight and low-power AMPS for small flying platforms is designed and tested, which provides an effective way to explore the properties of aerosol vertical distribution, and to monitor pollutants flexibly.
Remnant vegetation, plantings and fences are beneficial for reptiles in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Pulsford Stephanie A. , Driscoll Don A. , Barton Philip S. , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: April 2017

Managing agricultural landscapes for biodiversity conservation is increasingly difficult as land use is modified or intensified for production. Finding ways to mitigate the negative effects of agriculture on biodiversity is therefore critical. We asked the question: How do remnant patches, paddock types and grazing regimes influence reptile assemblages in a grazing landscape?

At 12 sites, we surveyed reptiles and environmental covariates in remnant woodland patches and in four paddock types: (i) grazed pasture, (ii) linear plantings, (iii) coarse woody debris (CWD) added to grazed pasture and (iv) fences between grazed pasture. Each site was either continuously or rotationally grazed.

Remnant vegetation and other vegetation attributes such as tree cover and leaf litter greatly influenced reptiles. We recorded higher reptile abundance and species richness in areas with more tree cover and leaf litter. For rare species (captured in ≤4 sites <70 captures), there were 5·7 more animals and 2·6 more species in sites with 50% woody cover within 3 km compared to 5% woody cover.

The abundance and richness of rare species, and one common species differed between paddock types and were higher in linear plantings and fence transects compared to CWD and pasture transects.

Synthesis and applications. Grazed paddocks, particularly those with key features such as fences and plantings can provide habitat for reptiles. This suggests that discrete differentiation between patch and matrix does not apply for reptiles in these systems. Management to promote reptile conservation in agricultural landscapes should involve protecting existing remnant vegetation, regardless of amount; and promote key habitat features of trees, leaf litter and shrubs. Establishing plantings and fences is important as they support high numbers of less common reptiles and may facilitate reptiles to move through and use greater amounts of the landscape.
Remains of care: opioid substitution treatment in the post‐welfare state
Authors: Leppo Anna , Perälä Riikka
Published: April 2017

This article examines how the amplified role of pharmaceutical substances in addiction treatment affects the everyday realisation of care, particularly the relationship between workers and patients, in so called austere environments. Theoretically the article draws firstly on the literature that links pharmaceuticalisation to the neoliberal undoing of central public structures and institutions of care, and secondly on Anne‐Marie Mol's concept of the logic of care. Based on an ethnographic analysis of the everyday life at a Finnish opioid substitution treatment clinic we show the mechanisms through which the realisation of pharmacotherapy can, in the current political climate, result in a very narrow understanding of drug problems and minimal human contact between patients and professionals. Our analysis manifests an important shift in the logic of addiction treatment and health‐care policy more broadly; namely, a growing tendency to emphasise the need for patients to care for themselves and make good choices with limited help from formal care institutions and professionals. We call this new ethos the logic of austerity.
Insect transmission of plant viruses: Multilayered interactions optimize viral propagation
Authors: Dáder Beatriz , Then Christiane , Berthelot Edwige , Ducousso Marie , Ng James C. K. , Drucker Martin
Published: April 2017

By serving as vectors of transmission, insects play a key role in the infection cycle of many plant viruses. Viruses use sophisticated transmission strategies to overcome the spatial barrier separating plants and the impediment imposed by the plant cell wall. Interactions among insect vectors, viruses, and host plants mediate transmission by integrating all organizational levels, from molecules to populations. Best‐examined on the molecular scale are two basic transmission modes wherein virus–vector interactions have been well characterized. Whereas association of virus particles with specific sites in the vector's mouthparts or in alimentary tract regions immediately posterior to them is required for noncirculative transmission, the cycle of particles through the vector body is necessary for circulative transmission. Virus transmission is also determined by interactions that are associated with changes in vector feeding behaviors and with alterations in plant host's morphology and/or metabolism that favor the attraction or deterrence of vectors. A recent concept in virus–host–vector interactions proposes that when vectors land on infected plants, vector elicitors and effectors “inform” the plants of the confluence of interacting entities and trigger signaling pathways and plant defenses. Simultaneously, the plant responses may also influence virus acquisition and inoculation by vectors. Overall, a picture is emerging where transmission depends on multilayered virus–vector–host interactions that define the route of a virus through the vector, and on the manipulation of the host and the vector. These interactions guarantee virus propagation until one or more of the interactants undergo changes through evolution or are halted by environmental interventions.
Effects of different aerobic exercise frequencies on streptozotocin–nicotinamide‐induced type 2 diabetic rats: Continuous versus short bouts and weekend warrior exercises
Authors: Alaca Nuray , Uslu Serap , Gulec Suyen Guldal , Ince Umit , Serteser Mustafa , Kurtel Hızır
Published: April 2017

Background

Exercise training is known to have multiple beneficial effects on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of this study was to explore the effects of aerobic exercise frequency on diabetic parameters, the histopathological structure of skeletal muscle, diabetic myopathy, and mitochondrial enzyme activity in an experimental model of T2DM.

Methods

Sprague‐Dawley rats (n = 35) were rendered diabetic by injection of nicotinamide (110 mg/kg) and streptozotocin (65 mg/kg). Rats with blood glucose concentrations between 7 and 17 mmol/L were used. Diabetic rats were randomly allocated to one of the following groups: (i) control sedentary; (ii) diabetic sedentary; (iii) diabetic with continuous exercise (30 min/day, 5 days/week); (iv) diabetic with short bouts of exercise (3 × 10 min/day, 5 days/week); and (v) diabetic rats as “weekend warriors” (35 + 40 min/day, 2 days/week). After 6 weeks swimming exercise (total duration 150 min/week), biochemical tests were performed to measure insulin, glucose, cytokines, serum and muscle myeloperoxidase (MPO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Histologic analysis (histomorphometric and mitochondrial enzyme analysis) was also performed.

Results

Compared with diabetic sedentary rats, significant improvements were observed in all exercise groups in terms of glucose levels, weight loss, tissue MPO and MDA levels, muscular connective tissue, muscle atrophy, mitochondrial enzyme, and all histomorphometric analyses.

Conclusions

The results of the study emphasize the effects of training on inflammation, increased oxidative stress, myopathy, and mitochondrial damage in a rat model of T2DM, and demonstrate that there is no major difference between exercise modalities provided that the total duration of exercise remains the same.
A 5‐Year Follow‐Up of a Cohort of Italian Alcoholics: Hospital Admissions and Overall Survival
Authors: Bardazzi Gabriele , Zanna Ines , Ceroti Marco , Bendinelli Benedetta , Iozzi Adriana , Caini Saverio , Nesi Gabriella , Saieva Calogero
Published: April 2017

Background

Alcohol use disorders (AUDs), including alcohol dependence and alcohol abuse defined according to specific DSM‐IV and ICD‐10 criteria, can be potentially lethal, because they are associated with several medical and psychiatric conditions. This study aimed to describe the causes of hospitalization of a large cohort of subjects with alcohol dependence (alcoholics) enrolled in Florence (Italy) over a 5‐year follow‐up period and to evaluate the effect of hospitalization on overall survival.

Methods

One thousand one hundred and thirty alcoholics, newly diagnosed from 1997 to 2001, were linked to the Regional Mortality Registry for update of vital status as of December 31, 2006, and to the Hospital Discharge electronic archives of the Regional Health System of Tuscany to verify hospital admissions (HAs) during the 5‐year postcohort enrollment follow‐up. Kaplan–Meier survival and Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate any association of HA with overall survival.

Results

A total of 3,916 new hospitalizations occurred during the 5‐year follow‐up. Most alcoholics (70.6%) reported at least 1 new hospitalization, with a first hospitalization rate of 61.7 per 100 person‐years in the first year of follow‐up. The mean number of hospitalizations per admitted subject was 4.87 (SD 7.4), and mean length of hospital stay was 8.5 days (SD 11.3). The main causes of hospitalization were mental disorders and diseases of the digestive system, as well as accidents or violence. Among those alcoholics alive after 1 year of follow‐up, a significantly increased risk of dying in the following years could be predicted by early hospitalization in the 12 months preceding (hazard ratio [HR] 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15 to 2.60) or following (HR 3.59; 95% CI 2.31 to 5.61) enrollment in the cohort.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the association of AUDs with several serious medical conditions. This fact may be responsible for a high impact on health resource utilization and high social costs. Early hospitalization significantly predicts vital status at 5 years.
Sputum basophils are increased in eosinophilic asthma compared with non‐eosinophilic asthma phenotypes
Authors: Brooks C. R. , van Dalen C. J. , Hermans I. F. , Gibson P. G. , Simpson J. L. , Douwes J.
Published: April 2017

Sputum basophil numbers are increased in allergic asthmatics, but it is unclear what role airway basophils play in “TH2‐low” asthma phenotypes. Using flow cytometry, we found that basophils were significantly increased in all asthmatics (n=26) compared with healthy controls (n=8) (P=0.007) with highest levels observed in eosinophilic asthma (EA); median 0.22%, IQR 0.11%‐0.47%; n=14) compared with non‐EA (NEA) (0.06%, 0.00%‐0.20%; n=12; P<0.05). In asthmatics, basophils were positively correlated with sputum eosinophils (r=0.54; P<0.005) and inversely with sputum neutrophils (r=−0.46: P<0.05), but not with FEV1 (% predicted), FEV1/FVC or bronchodilator reversibility. In a subgroup initially identified as inadequately controlled asthma (n=7), there was a trend (P=0.08) towards a reduction in sputum basophils following increased inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) treatment. Our findings suggest that basophils may be particularly important in eosinophilic asthma and that sputum basophil assessment could be a useful additional indicator of “TH2‐high” asthma.
Novel sequence variants in the LIPH and LPAR6 genes underlies autosomal recessive woolly hair/hypotrichosis in consanguineous families
Authors: Ahmad Farooq , Sharif Salma , Furqan Ubaid Muhammad , Shah Khadim , Khan Muhammad Nasim , Umair Muhammad , Azeem Zahid , Ahmad Wasim
Published: April 2017

Autosomal‐recessive woolly hair/hypotrichosis (ARWH/H) is a rare genetic disorder of hair caused by variants in the LIPH and LPAR6 genes. The disease is characterized by congenital tightly curled hair leading to sparse hair later in life. In the present report genetic characterization of three consanguineous families of Pakistani origin, displaying clinical features of ARWH/H, was performed. Haplotype and DNA sequence analysis of the LIPH gene revealed a novel homozygous nonsense variant (c.688C > T; p.Gln230*) in family A. In two other families, B and C, sequence analysis of the LPAR6 gene revealed a novel homozygous frameshift variant (c.68_69dupGCAT; p.Phe24Hisfs*29) and a previously reported missense variant (c.188A > T; p.Asp63Val), respectively. Taken together, our findings will expand the spectrum of variants reported in the LIPH and LPAR6 genes.
Early postoperative management after lung transplantation: Results of an international survey
Authors: King Christopher S. , Valentine Vincent , Cattamanchi Ashok , Franco‐Palacios Domingo , Shlobin Oksana A. , Brown A. Whitney , Singh Ramesh , Bogar Linda , Nathan Steven D.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Little data exist regarding optimal therapeutic strategies postoperatively after lung transplant (LTx). Current practice patterns rely on expert opinion and institutional experience resulting in nonuniform postoperative care. To better define current practice patterns, an international survey of LTx clinicians was conducted.

Methods

A 30‐question survey was sent to transplant clinicians via email to the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation open forum mailing list and directly to the chief transplant surgeon and pulmonologist of all LTx centers in the United States.

Results

Fifty‐two clinicians representing 10 countries responded to the survey. Sedatives use patterns included: opiates + propofol (57.2%), opiates + dexmedetomidine (18.4%), opiates + intermittent benzodiazepines (14.3%), opiates + continuous benzodiazepines (8.2%), and opiates alone (2%). About 40.4% reported no formal sedation scale was followed and 13.5% of programs had no formal policy on sedation and analgesia. A lung protective strategy was commonly employed, with 13.8%, 51.3%, and 35.9% of respondents using tidal volumes of <6 mL/kg ideal body weight (IBW), 6 mL/kg IBW, and 8 mL/kg IBW, respectively.

Conclusion

Practice patterns in the early postoperative care of lung transplant recipients differ considerably among centers. Many of the reported practices do not conform to consensus guidelines on management of critically ill patients.
Climate and anthropogenic factors determine site occupancy in Scotland's Northern‐range badger population: implications of context‐dependent responses under environmental change
Authors: Silva André P. , Curveira‐Santos Gonçalo , Kilshaw Kerry , Newman Chris , Macdonald David W. , Simões Luciana G. , Rosalino Luís M.
Published: April 2017

Aim

In the light of human‐induced rapid environmental change (HIREC), populations are exposed to ever‐greater bioclimatic stress at the edge of a species’ historic range. The distribution dynamics of European badgers (Meles meles) at their southern edge are linked tightly to climatic variability. We contribute critical data on how climatic context and local factors determine site occupancy in a northern‐range population.

Location

Eleven study areas (averaging ~21.3 km2) spread over ~50,000 km2 in Northern Scotland.

Methods

While accounting for heterogeneous detectability, we applied single‐season occupancy models to broad‐scale camera‐trapping data (168 stations) to evaluate how Autumn–Winter weather conditions interact with land‐cover type (including agricultural land) and human disturbance to determine badger occupancy.

Results

Mean minimum daily winter temperature and elevation influenced inter‐site occupancy. When clustering study areas into two distinct topo‐climatic types, badger occupancy was associated with agriculture in areas with lower mean minimum winter temperatures (<0.3°C) at higher elevation (>246 m). In areas with higher mean minimum winter temperature (>1.2°C) at lower elevation (<133 m), badgers selected sites further away from human infrastructures (settlements and main roads). Climatic factors and human disturbance interact in intricate, context‐dependent patterns to determine badger site occupancy.

Main Conclusions

The UKCP09 Medium Emissions Scenario projects a winter mean minimum temperature increase of between 1 and 3°C (central estimate) for Northern Scotland by the 2050s. Although warmer weather should benefit badger occupancy, this may be counteracted by up to a predicted 5% human population increase in the Scottish highlands, by 2037, which is likely to disturb badgers. We show that even in instances where species’ regional responses to climate change are positive, these effects can be neutralized by other anthropogenic pressures. Our findings add to the growing body of evidence advocating that interactive effects should be taken into account when planning conservation management.
Standardization of endoscopic resection for colorectal tumors larger than 10 mm in diameter
Authors: Oka Shiro , Uraoka Toshio , Tamai Naoto , Ikematsu Hiroaki , Chino Akiko , Okamoto Koichi , Takeuchi Yoji , Imai Kenichiro , Ohata Ken , Shiga Hisashi , Raftopoulos Spiro , Lee Bo‐in , Matsuda Takahisa
Published: April 2017

Currently, several endoscopic resection (ER) methods for colorectal tumors are available, including polypectomy, conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and modified ER. In the present review, we mainly focus on the current status of ER for colorectal tumors as well as the report from the Endoscopic Forum Japan (EFJ) 2016, which was held in Tokyo in August 2016. The proposed ER methods for colorectal tumors larger than 10 mm in diameter are as follows. (i) Pedunculated‐type tumor is an indication for polypectomy, regardless of size. (ii) Non‐pedunculated‐type tumor larger than 20 mm in diameter is an indication for ESD in which en bloc resection using conventional EMR is difficult or impossible. (iii) Non‐pedunculated‐type tumor from 10 mm to 20 mm in diameter is an indication for conventional EMR. However, ESD or modified ER methods are acceptable according to the procedure and the condition of the tumor.
Efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies in Korea: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Jung Yoon Suk , Park Chan Hyuk , Park Jung Ho , Nam Eunwoo , Lee Hang Lak
Published: April 2017

Background

The efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens may depend on the country where the studies were performed because of the difference in antibiotic resistance. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of H. pylori eradication regimens in Korea where clarithromycin resistance rate is high.

Methods

We searched for all relevant randomized controlled trials published until November 2016 that investigated the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapies in Korea. A network meta‐analysis was performed to calculate the direct and indirect estimates of efficacy among the eradication regimens.

Results

Forty‐three studies were identified through a systematic review, of which 34 studies, published since 2005, were included in the meta‐analysis. Among 21 included regimens, quinolone‐containing sequential therapy for 14 days (ST‐Q‐14) showed the highest eradication rate (91.4% [95% confidence interval [CI], 86.9%‐94.4%] in the intention‐to‐treat [ITT] analysis). The eradication rate of the conventional triple therapy for 7 days, standard sequential therapy for 10 days, hybrid therapy for 10‐14 days, and concomitant therapy for 10‐14 days was 71.1% (95% CI, 68.3%‐73.7%), 76.2% (95% CI, 72.8%‐79.3%), 79.4% (95% CI, 75.5%‐82.8%), and 78.3% (95% CI, 75.3%‐80.9%), respectively, in the ITT analysis. In the network meta‐analysis, ST‐Q‐14 showed a better comparative efficacy than the conventional triple therapy, standard sequential therapy, hybrid therapy, and concomitant therapy. In addition, tolerability of ST‐Q‐14 was comparable to those regimens.

Conclusion

In Korea, ST‐Q‐14 showed the highest efficacy in terms of eradication and a comparable tolerability, compared to the results reported for the conventional triple therapy, standard sequential therapy, hybrid therapy, and concomitant therapy.
Implementation of Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3‐ZnO‐B2O3 based tunable microwave phase shifters in LTCC technology
Authors: Kohler Christian , Nikfalazar Mohammad , Heunisch Andreas , Schulz Bärbel , Mikolajek Morten , Rabe Torsten , Jakoby Rolf , Binder Joachim R.
Published: April 2017

Tunable dielectric Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3‐ZnO‐B2O3 thick‐films were analyzed regarding their integration potential into the LTCC technology. Therefore, tunable loaded line phase shifters based on metal‐insulator‐metal varactors with single‐ and double‐printed BST thick‐films were fabricated and co‐sintered inside a four layer LTCC module. Microstructural and chemical investigations showed a sufficient compatibility and adhesion between the silver, BST composite and LTCC layers and a resulting morphology depending on the processing route. The microwave characterization of the LTCC‐embedded phase shifters revealed comparable results to phase shifters with the same design on alumina substrates.
Rethinking prices during an economic crisis: Calculation as a new mode of consumer behaviour in Russia
Authors: Berdysheva Elena , Romanova Regina
Published: April 2017

Using qualitative data, this study explores Russians’ reactions to increases in consumer prices caused by the current economic crisis. The financial turbulence has reinforced doubts about the fairness of market prices and the overall legitimacy of the market order in Russia. Suspicion and cynicism about the State and seller behaviour become the main mode of price perception, encouraging proactive, calculating price behaviour. Respondents’ narratives reveal that proactive price behaviour is considered to be a sign of social competence, financial independence, and high cognitive capacity. Proactive pricing behaviour allows consumers to use their purchasing power for resistance to market injustice and social insecurity and to increase personal chances for sustainability.
BCG vaccination‐induced suppurative lymphadenitis: four signs to pay attention to
Authors: Baek Sang Oon , Ko Hyo Sun , Han Hyun Ho
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

Suppurative lymphadenitis is one of the severe complication after BCG vaccination, but its diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines have not yet been established. In this article, we describe a case of suppurative lymphadenitis caused by BCG vaccination and propose diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines of the disease. The lymphadenitis was presented as skin involving mass and was completely extirpated. Pathological evaluation revealed a necrotising lymphadenitis, consistent with the diagnosis of BCG lymphadenitis. The patient was administered adjuvant medical treatment with anti‐TB medications (Isoniazid and Rifampicin) for 3 months. At 6 months follow‐up, the disease was in complete remission without complications. We recommend focus on the following four signs when diagnosing BCG lymphadenitis: (i) previous history of vaccination on the ipsilateral side of the lesion, (ii) absence of any other infection signs, (iii) absence of fever and (iv) isolated axillary or supraclavicular/cervical lymph node enlargement proven by ultrasonography or computed tomography scan. BCG vaccination‐induced suppurative lymphadenitis can easily be overlooked, but prompt, accurate diagnosis followed by appropriate surgical resection should result in complete healing as in this case.
The complex relationship between pain intensity and physical functioning in fibromyalgia: the mediating role of depression
Authors: Steiner Jennifer L. , Bigatti Silvia M. , Slaven James E. , Ang Dennis C.
Published: April 2017

Fibromyalgia (FM) is typically associated with the experience of diffuse pain and physical impairment. Depression also commonly co‐exists in patients with FM and has been correlated with pain intensity and physical functioning. Previous research suggests an association between pain intensity and physical functioning; however, the direct causal relationship between improvements in pain intensity and in functioning is not observed in many FM patients. This may suggest that another factor such as depression is mediating this relationship. The present work examined mediating role of depression. Two hundred sixteen patients with FM completed measures of pain intensity, depression, and physical function as part of a larger longitudinal study. Assessments were completed at baseline, 12, 24, and 36 weeks. Longitudinal mediational analyses indicated that depression is a partial mediator of the relationship between pain intensity and physical functioning at all four assessment points. Beta coefficients for the path from pain to physical functioning ranged from 0.18 to 0.36, with attenuated path coefficients ranging 0.03–0.08, still showing significant but decreased associations when depression was added as a mediator. Clinical implication includes the importance of treating comorbid depression in patients with FM early in the course of treatment to prevent engagement in the cycle of disability.
ClassIIIantiarrhythmic drugs amiodarone and dronedarone impairKIR2.1 backward trafficking
Authors: Ji Yuan , Takanari Hiroki , Qile Muge , Nalos Lukas , Houtman Marien J.C. , Romunde Fee L. , Heukers Raimond , van Bergen en Henegouwen Paul M.P. , Vos Marc A. , van der Heyden Marcel A.G.
Published: April 2017

Drug‐induced ion channel trafficking disturbance can cause cardiac arrhythmias. The subcellular level at which drugs interfere in trafficking pathways is largely unknown.KIR2.1 inward rectifier channels, largely responsible for the cardiac inward rectifier current (IK1), are degraded in lysosomes. Amiodarone and dronedarone are classIIIantiarrhythmics. Chronic use of amiodarone, and to a lesser extent dronedarone, causes serious adverse effects to several organs and tissue types, including the heart. Both drugs have been described to interfere in the late‐endosome/lysosome system. Here we defined the potential interference inKIR2.1 backward trafficking by amiodarone and dronedarone. Both drugs inhibitedIK1in isolated rabbit ventricular cardiomyocytes at supraclinical doses only. InHK‐KWGFcells, both drugs dose‐ and time‐dependently increasedKIR2.1 expression (2.0 ± 0.2‐fold with amiodarone: 10 μM, 24 hrs; 2.3 ± 0.3‐fold with dronedarone: 5 μM, 24 hrs) and late‐endosomal/lysosomalKIR2.1 accumulation. IncreasedKIR2.1 expression level was also observed in the presence of Nav1.5 co‐expression. AugmentedKIR2.1 protein levels and intracellular accumulation were also observed inCOS‐7,END‐2,MES‐1 andEPI‐7 cells. Both drugs had no effect on Kv11.1 ion channel protein expression levels. Finally, amiodarone (73.3 ± 10.3%P < 0.05 at −120 mV, 5 μM) enhancedIKIR2.1upon 24‐hrs treatment, whereas dronedarone tended to increaseIKIR2.1and it did not reach significance (43.8 ± 5.5%,P = 0.26 at −120 mV; 2 μM). We conclude that chronic amiodarone, and potentially also dronedarone, treatment can result in enhancedIK1by inhibitingKIR2.1 degradation.
Preparation and characterization of starch film accompanied with ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Mirjalili Fatemeh , Yassini Ardekani Ali
Published: April 2017

Biodegradable starch‐zinc oxide films were made by casting starch film paste accompanied with ZnO nanoparticles. There was found a dissolving temperature of 60 °C, time of 30 min and the use of different amounts of oils, plasticizers, lubricants and binders presented a homogenous starch paste suitable for film casting to be prepared. X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and mechanical tests of the films showed a successful incorporation of ZnO nanoparticles into the starch matrix, and indicated the interactions between ZnO and starch. The starch‐ZnO films showed an increase in tensile strength about 9.8366 MPa and elongation at break about 94% with 0.7 g nano ZnO, 0.3 g carboxyl methyl cellulose, 0.2 g oil and 1.5 g lubricant with 3 g starch. Moreover, this modified film had the antibacterial properties about 92% and 98% against S. aureus and Escherichia coli bacterial, respectively.

Practical applications

Starch films had good barrier properties to oxygen, carbon dioxide and lipids; while, they limited mechanical properties and water vapor resistance. In the existing study, this problem was overcome by being blended with ZnO nanoparticles and mechanical properties and water resistance increased. The developed films were in hydrophilic character when compared to conventional synthetic films such as PE and PP. Therefore, the advanced films are quite suitable to be used as a carrier polymer matrix for active hydrophilic and compounds in active food packaging applications. An additional potential application of those films existing in this study was used as edible film layer where mechanical and permeability resistance needed.
Family and Other Unpaid Caregivers and Older Adults with and without Dementia and Disability
Authors: Riffin Catherine , Van Ness Peter H. , Wolff Jennifer L. , Fried Terri
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To estimate the number of caregivers providing assistance to community‐dwelling older persons with and without dementia and with or without substantial disability; to describe the characteristics of caregivers and care recipients in these groups; to characterize the health‐related tasks that caregivers provide; and to estimate associations between the numbers of tasks and caregiver burden.

Design

Nationally representative surveys of caregivers and older adults in the United States.

Setting

2011 National Health and Aging Trends Study and National Study of Caregiving.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults and their family caregivers, who were selected on the basis of having assisted with mobility, self‐care, household activities, transportation, or medical tasks.

Measurements

Caregiver burden (emotional, physical, financial difficulties) and restrictions on social participation.

Results

Although much larger proportions of older adults with dementia and disability (98.4%, n = 1.0 million) and dementia but not disability (95.5%, n = 1.3 million) received caregiving assistance, the largest absolute number of individuals receiving assistance were older adults without dementia or disability (4.0 million). Within each caregiver group, caregivers provided assistance with at least one task across domains of activity of daily living and instrumental activity of daily living–related assistance (>98%), health systems logistics (>70%), and health management (>50%). There was a significant linear association between number of tasks provided and risk of burden in virtually all caregiver groups and domains of assistance.

Conclusion

Caregivers of care recipients without dementia or disability accounted for the largest absolute number of helpers. These caregivers, similar to caregivers of care recipients with dementia or disability, delivered a broad spectrum of health‐related tasks and experienced caregiver burden and restrictions on social participation. Findings support the need for interventions that address the needs of caregivers who have not typically been defined as high risk.
Changes in cIAP2, survivin and BimEL expression characterize the switch from autophagy to apoptosis in prolonged starvation
Authors: Hay‐Koren A. , Bialik S. , Levin‐Salomon V. , Kimchi A.
Published: April 2017

Background

Autophagy is a catabolic process involving the engulfment of cytoplasmic content within autophagosomes followed by their delivery to lysosomes. This process is a survival mechanism, enabling cells to cope with nutrient deprivation by degradation and recycling of macromolecules. Yet during continued stress such as prolonged starvation, a switch from autophagy to apoptosis is often detected.

Objective

In this work, we characterized the temporal dynamics of the transition from autophagy towards apoptosis with the aim of elucidating the molecular mechanism regulating the switch from survival autophagy to apoptotic cell death.

Results and Conclusions

We defined an inverse relationship between apoptosis and autophagy spanning a period of 72 h, manifested by the sequential reduction in LC3 lipidation and the activation of caspase‐3. The transition to apoptosis correlated with a selective decline in the mRNA and protein levels of two anti‐apoptotic IAP family proteins, survivin and cIAP2 and a selective increase in the BH3‐only protein, BimEL. This ‘molecular signature’ was common to several cell lines undergoing the switch from autophagy to apoptosis during prolonged starvation. Mechanistically, the increased BimEL protein levels resulted from its reduced binding to its specific E3 ligase, βTrCP, leading to protein stabilization. Consistent with this, BimEL showed decreased phosphorylation at critical sites previously reported to be essential for binding to the E3 ligase. The decrease in the anti‐apoptotic IAPs and the increase in the pro‐apoptotic BimEL may thus constitute a molecular switch from autophagy to apoptosis during prolonged starvation.
Manipulation of glyoxalase pathway confers tolerance to multiple stresses in rice
Authors: Gupta Brijesh K. , Sahoo Khirod K. , Ghosh Ajit , Tripathi Amit K. , Anwar Khalid , Das Priyanka , Singh Anil K. , Pareek Ashwani , Sopory Sudhir K. , Singla‐Pareek Sneh L.
Published: April 2017

Crop plants face a multitude of diverse abiotic and biotic stresses in the farmers' fields. Although there now exists a considerable knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of response to individual stresses, the crosstalk between response pathways to various abiotic and biotic stresses remains enigmatic. Here, we investigated if the cytotoxic metabolite methylglyoxal (MG), excess of which is generated as a common consequence of many abiotic and biotic stresses, may serve as a key molecule linking responses to diverse stresses. For this, we generated transgenic rice plants overexpressing the entire two‐step glyoxalase pathway for MG detoxification. Through assessment of various morphological, physiological and agronomic parameters, we found that glyoxalase‐overexpression imparts tolerance towards abiotic stresses like salinity, drought and heat and also provides resistance towards damage caused by the sheath blight fungus (Rhizoctonia solani) toxin phenylacetic acid. We show that the mechanism of observed tolerance of the glyoxalase‐overexpressing plants towards these diverse abiotic and biotic stresses involves improved MG detoxification and reduced oxidative damage leading to better protection of chloroplast and mitochondrial ultrastructure and maintained photosynthetic efficiency under stress conditions. Together, our findings indicate that MG may serve as a key link between abiotic and biotic stress response in plants.
Stomatal kinetics and photosynthetic gas exchange along a continuum of isohydric to anisohydric regulation of plant water status
Authors: Meinzer Frederick C. , Smith Duncan D. , Woodruff David R. , Marias Danielle E. , McCulloh Katherine A. , Howard Ava R. , Magedman Alicia L.
Published: April 2017

Species' differences in the stringency of stomatal control of plant water potential represent a continuum of isohydric to anisohydric behaviours. However, little is known about how quasi‐steady‐state stomatal regulation of water potential may relate to dynamic behaviour of stomata and photosynthetic gas exchange in species operating at different positions along this continuum. Here, we evaluated kinetics of light‐induced stomatal opening, activation of photosynthesis and features of quasi‐steady‐state photosynthetic gas exchange in 10 woody species selected to represent different degrees of anisohydry. Based on a previously developed proxy for the degree of anisohydry, species' leaf water potentials at turgor loss, we found consistent trends in photosynthetic gas exchange traits across a spectrum of isohydry to anisohydry. More anisohydric species had faster kinetics of stomatal opening and activation of photosynthesis, and these kinetics were closely coordinated within species. Quasi‐steady‐state stomatal conductance and measures of photosynthetic capacity and performance were also greater in more anisohydric species. Intrinsic water‐use efficiency estimated from leaf gas exchange and stable carbon isotope ratios was lowest in the most anisohydric species. In comparisons between gas exchange traits, species rankings were highly consistent, leading to species‐independent scaling relationships over the range of isohydry to anisohydry observed.
Unravelling Swedish informal caregivers’ Generalised Resistance Deficits
Authors: Wennerberg Mia M.T. , Eriksson Monica , Lundgren Solveig M. , Danielson Ella
Published: April 2017

In salutogenic theory, individual/contextual, immaterial/material characteristics enabling movements towards health are labelled Specific and Generalised Resistance Resources, SRRs/GRRs, and characteristics counteracting such movements Specific and Generalised Resistance Deficits, SRDs/GRDs. The aim of this paper was to present SRDs and GRDs described by caregivers as stemming from themselves and their care recipient. Guided by salutogenic theory, an explorative design was used to collect data through interviews with 32 Swedish informal caregivers. During the theory‐driven analysis, SRDs were unravelled using within‐case approaches. To be able to unite them as GRDs across cases, a serviceable GRD definition was developed from the existing theoretical GRR definition. In findings, SRDs are visualised in citations and GRDs described in detail. Caregivers’ experiences of SRDs/GRDs are presented as themes: ‘Experiencing personal deficiencies’, when stemming from themselves; and ‘Struggling with an uncooperative co‐worker’, when stemming from their care recipients. Findings indicate that if these themes dominate a caregiver's view of life, she/he seems to have reached the ‘breaking point’ when caregiving ends due to lack of usable SRRs/GRRs. To prolong the time until this occurs, support, making otherwise unusable SRRs/GRRs usable, is needed. When designing this type of ‘salutogenic’ support, it seems essential to involve the target group (e.g. caregivers, care recipients), to ascertain what their SRRs/GRRs and SRDs/GRDs may consist of. Such knowledge regarding SRRs/SRDs could be used to design individualised support, and regarding GRRs/GRDs to design generalised support at group level. This study suggests how such new knowledge regarding resistance resources and deficits could be acquired.
Rapid recovery of nuclear and mitochondrial genes by genome skimming from Northern Hemisphere freshwater crayfish
Authors: Grandjean Frederic , Tan Mun Hua , Gan Han Ming , Lee Yin Peng , Kawai Tadashi , Distefano Robert J. , Blaha Martin , Roles Angela J. , Austin Christopher M.
Published: April 2017

Molecular phylogenetics has benefited tremendously from the advent of next‐generation sequencing, enabling quick and cost‐effective recovery of whole mitogenomes via an approach referred to as ‘genome skimming’. Recently, genome skimming has been utilised to recover highly repetitive nuclear genes such as 18S and 28S ribosomalRNAgenes that are useful for inferring deeper evolutionary relationships. To address some outstanding issues in the relationships among Northern Hemisphere freshwater crayfish (Astacoidea), we sequenced the partial genome of crayfish species from Asian, North American and European genera and report the successful recovery of whole mitogenome sequences in addition to three highly repetitive nuclear genes, namely histone H3, 18S and 28S ribosomalRNA. Consistent with some previous studies using short mtDNAand nuclear gene fragments, phylogenetic analyses based on the concatenation of recovered mitochondrial and/or nuclear sequences recovered the Asian cambarid lineage as basal to all astacids and North American cambarids, which conflicts with the current taxonomic classification based on morphological and reproduction‐related characters. Lastly, we show that complete H3, 18S and 28S ribosomalRNAgenes can also be consistently recovered from a diverse range of animal taxa, demonstrating the potential wide utility of genome skimming for nuclear markers.
Nonlinear Axisymmetric Free Vibration Analysis of Liquid-Filled Spherical Shell With Volume Constraint
Authors: Jiammeepreecha W. , Chucheepsakul S.
Published: April 2017

Nonlinear axisymmetric free vibration analysis of liquid-filled spherical shells with volume constraint condition using membrane theory is presented in this paper. The energy functional of the shell and contained liquid can be expressed based on the principle of virtual work using surface fundamental form and is written in the appropriate forms. Natural frequencies and the corresponding mode shapes for specified axisymmetric vibration amplitude of liquid-filled spherical shells can be calculated by finite element method (FEM). A nonlinear numerical solution can be obtained by the modified direct iteration technique. The results indicate that the Lagrange multiplier is a parameter for adapting the internal pressure in order to sustain the shell in equilibrium state for each mode of vibration with the volume constraint condition. The axisymmetric mode shapes of the liquid-filled spherical shells under volume constraint condition were found to be in close agreement with those in existing literature for an empty spherical shell. Finally, the effects of support condition, thickness, initial internal pressure, bulk modulus of internal liquid, and elastic modulus on the nonlinear axisymmetric free vibration and change of pressure of the liquid-filled spherical shells with volume constraint condition were demonstrated. The parametric studies showed that the change of pressure has a major impact on the fundamental vibration mode when compared with the higher vibration modes.
A parity-breaking electronic nematic phase transition in the spin-orbit coupled metal Cd
2
Re
2
O
7
Authors: Harter J. W. , Zhao Z. Y. , Yan J.-Q. , Mandrus D. G. , Hsieh D.
Published: April 2017

A nonlinear peek into electronic symmetry

Strong interactions among electrons in some materials can cause them to assume configurations that are less symmetric than the underlying crystal lattice. These so-called electronic nematic states usually have inversion symmetry, but theorists have predicted that in metals with strong spin-orbit coupling, the inversion symmetry can be lost. Harter
et al.
teased out the symmetry of the electronic order in the compound Cd
2
Re
2
O
7
(see the Perspective by Dodge). They found that a known structural transition in this material is a consequence of another, previously hidden electronic order that breaks inversion symmetry.

Science
, this issue p.
295
; see also p.
246
Biased partitioning of the multidrug efflux pump AcrAB-TolC underlies long-lived phenotypic heterogeneity
Authors: Bergmiller Tobias , Andersson Anna M. C. , Tomasek Kathrin , Balleza Enrique , Kiviet Daniel J. , Hauschild Robert , Tkačik Gašper , Guet Călin C.
Published: April 2017

Drug efflux machinery inherited asymmetrically

In dividing bacterial cells, asymmetric distribution of cell wall constituents occurs between mother cells and their progeny. Asymmetric distribution of efflux machinery in a growing population of bacterial cells results in heterogeneity in antibiotic resistance. One consequence is that in the presence of low levels of antibiotic, older cells tend to live longer than younger cells. Using a microfluidic device to trap and measure dividing cells, Bergmiller
et al.
showed that AcrAB-TolC, the main multidrug efflux pump of
Escherichia coli
, clusters at the pole of older cells (see the Perspective by Barrett
et al.
). As cell division proceeds and daughter cells age, they too gradually accumulate polar efflux pumps.

Science
, this issue p.
311
; see also p.
247
Formation of a Viral Replication Focus in Sulfolobus Cells Infected by the Rudivirus Sulfolobus islandicus Rod-Shaped Virus 2
Authors: Martínez-Alvarez Laura , Deng Ling , Peng Xu
Published: April 2017

Viral factories are compartmentalized centers for viral replication and assembly in infected eukaryotic cells. Here, we report the formation of a replication focus by prototypical archaeal Sulfolobus islandicus rod-shaped virus 2 (SIRV2) in the model archaeon
Sulfolobus
. This rod-shaped virus belongs to the viral family
Rudiviridae
, carrying linear double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genomes, which are very common in geothermal environments. We demonstrate that SIRV2 DNA synthesis is confined to a focus near the periphery of infected cells. Moreover, viral and cellular replication proteins are recruited to, and concentrated in, the viral replication focus. Furthermore, we show that of the four host DNA polymerases (DNA polymerase I [Dpo1] to Dpo4), only Dpo1 participates in viral DNA synthesis. This constitutes the first report of the formation of a viral replication focus in archaeal cells, suggesting that organization of viral replication in foci is a widespread strategy employed by viruses of the three domains of life.

IMPORTANCE
The organization of viral replication in foci or viral factories has been mostly described for different eukaryotic viruses and for several bacteriophages. This work constitutes the first report of the formation of a viral replication center by a virus infecting members of the
Archaea
domain.