bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and Mode of Action of a Plant Natural Product Targeting Human Fungal Pathogens
Authors: Dorsaz Stéphane , Snäkä Tiia , Favre-Godal Quentin , Maudens Pierre , Boulens Nathalie , Furrer Pascal , Ebrahimi Samad Nejad , Hamburger Matthias , Allémann Eric , Gindro Katia , Queiroz Emerson Ferreira , Riezman Howard , Wolfender Jean-Luc , Sanglard Dominique
Published: July 2017

Candida albicans
is a major cause of fungal diseases in humans, and its resistance to available drugs is of concern. In an attempt to identify novel antifungal agents, we initiated a small-scale screening of a library of 199 natural plant compounds (i.e., natural products [NPs]).
In vitro
susceptibility profiling experiments identified 33 NPs with activity against
C. albicans
(MIC
50
s ≤ 32 μg/ml). Among the selected NPs, the sterol alkaloid tomatidine was further investigated. Tomatidine originates from the tomato (
Solanum lycopersicum
) and exhibited high levels of fungistatic activity against
Candida
species (MIC
50
s ≤ 1 μg/ml) but no cytotoxicity against mammalian cells. Genome-wide transcriptional analysis of tomatidine-treated
C. albicans
cells revealed a major alteration (upregulation) in the expression of ergosterol genes, suggesting that the ergosterol pathway is targeted by this NP. Consistent with this transcriptional response, analysis of the sterol content of tomatidine-treated cells showed not only inhibition of Erg6 (C-24 sterol methyltransferase) activity but also of Erg4 (C-24 sterol reductase) activity. A forward genetic approach in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
coupled with whole-genome sequencing identified 2 nonsynonymous mutations in
ERG6
(amino acids D249G and G132D) responsible for tomatidine resistance. Our results therefore unambiguously identified Erg6, a C-24 sterol methyltransferase absent in mammals, to be the main direct target of tomatidine. We tested the
in vivo
efficacy of tomatidine in a mouse model of
C. albicans
systemic infection. Treatment with a nanocrystal pharmacological formulation successfully decreased the fungal burden in infected kidneys compared to the fungal burden achieved by the use of placebo and thus confirmed the potential of tomatidine as a therapeutic agent.
Effects of Isavuconazole on the Plasma Concentrations of Tacrolimus among Solid-Organ Transplant Patients
Authors: Rivosecchi Ryan M. , Clancy Cornelius J. , Shields Ryan K. , Ensor Christopher R. , Shullo Michael A. , Falcione Bonnie A. , Venkataramanan Raman , Nguyen M. Hong
Published: July 2017

We evaluated the interaction between isavuconazole and tacrolimus among 55 organ transplant recipients. After isavuconazole discontinuation, the tacrolimus concentration/dose ratio normalized by weight (C/D) was reduced by 16%. Liver transplant recipients experienced the largest C/D reduction. A 1.3-fold decrease in tacrolimus daily dose was required to maintain desired tacrolimus levels. There was considerable interpatient variability in the magnitude of the drug interaction. Tacrolimus doses should not be adjusted uniformly but, rather, be guided by therapeutic drug monitoring.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Dose Optimization of Teicoplanin during Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Wi Jin , Noh Hayeon , Min Kyoung Lok , Yang Seungwon , Jin Byung Hak , Hahn Jongsung , Bae Soo Kyung , Kim Jiseon , Park Min Soo , Choi Donghoon , Chang Min Jung
Published: July 2017

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of drugs are known to be significantly altered in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). However, clinical studies of the PK of drugs administered during ECMO are scarce, and the proper dosing adjustment has yet to be established. We developed a population PK model for teicoplanin, investigated covariates influencing teicoplanin exposure, and suggested an optimal dosing regimen for ECMO patients. Samples for PK analysis were collected from 10 adult patients, and a population PK analysis and simulations were performed to identify an optimal teicoplanin dose needed to provide a >50% probability of target attainment at 72 h using a trough concentration target of >10 μg/ml for mild to moderate infections and a trough concentration target of >15 μg/ml for severe infections. Teicoplanin was well described by a two-compartment PK model with first-order elimination. The presence of ECMO was associated with a lower central volume of distribution, and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was associated with a higher peripheral volume of distribution. For mild to moderate infections, an optimal dose was a loading dose (LD) of 600 mg and a maintenance dose (MD) of 400 mg for ECMO patients not receiving CRRT and an LD of 800 mg and an MD of 600 mg for those receiving CRRT. For severe infections, an optimal dose was an LD of 1,000 mg and an MD of 800 mg for ECMO patients not receiving CRRT and an LD of 1,200 mg and an MD of 1,000 mg for those receiving CRRT. In conclusion, doses higher than the standard doses are needed to achieve fast and appropriate teicoplanin exposure during ECMO. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT02581280.)
A Novel 6-Benzyl Ether Benzoxaborole Is Active against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
In Vitro
Authors: Patel Nipul , O'Malley Theresa , Zhang Yong-Kang , Xia Yi , Sunde Bjorn , Flint Lindsay , Korkegian Aaron , Ioerger Thomas R. , Sacchettini Jim , Alley M. R. K. , Parish Tanya
Published: July 2017

We identified a novel 6-benzyl ether benzoxaborole with potent activity against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. The compound had an MIC of 2 μM in liquid medium. The compound was also able to prevent growth on solid medium at 0.8 μM and was active against intracellular bacteria (50% inhibitory concentration [IC
50
] = 3.6 μM) without cytotoxicity against eukaryotic cells (IC
50
> 100 μM). We isolated resistant mutants (MIC ≥ 100 μM), which had mutations in Rv1683, Rv3068c, and Rv0047c.
Assessment of Clinical Pharmacokinetic Drug-Drug Interaction of Antimalarial Drugs α/β-Arteether and Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine
Authors: Chhonker Y. S. , Bhosale V. V. , Sonkar S. K. , Chandasana H. , Kumar D. , Vaish S. , Choudhary S. C. , Bhadhuria S. , Sharma S. , Singh R. K. , Jain G. K. , Vaish A. K. , Gaur S. P. S. , Bhatta R. S.
Published: July 2017

Antimalarial drug combination therapy is now being widely used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of coadministration of intramuscular α/β-arteether (α/β-AE) and oral sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) on the pharmacokinetic properties of each drug as a drug-drug interaction study to support the development of a fixed-dose combination therapy. A single-dose, open-label, crossover clinical trial was conducted in healthy adult Indian male volunteers (18 to 45 years,
n
= 13) who received a single dose of AE or SP or a combination dose of AE and SP. Blood samples were collected up to 21 days postadministration, and concentrations of α-AE, β-AE, sulfadoxine, and pyrimethamine were determined by using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated and statistically analyzed to calculate the geometric mean ratio and confidence interval. Following single-dose coadministration of intramuscular AE and oral SP, the pharmacokinetic properties of α/β-AE were not significantly affected, and α/β-AE had no significant effect on the pharmacokinetic properties of SP in these selected groups of healthy volunteers. However, more investigations are needed to explore this further. (This study has been registered in the clinical trial registry of India under approval no. CTRI/2011/11/002155.)
AtlA Mediates Extracellular DNA Release, Which Contributes to Streptococcus mutans Biofilm Formation in an Experimental Rat Model of Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Jung Chiau-Jing , Hsu Ron-Bin , Shun Chia-Tung , Hsu Chih-Chieh , Chia Jean-San
Published: July 2017

Host factors, such as platelets, have been shown to enhance biofilm formation by oral commensal streptococci, inducing infective endocarditis (IE), but how bacterial components contribute to biofilm formation
in vivo
is still not clear. We demonstrated previously that an isogenic mutant strain of
Streptococcus mutans
deficient in autolysin AtlA (Δ
atlA
) showed a reduced ability to cause vegetation in a rat model of bacterial endocarditis. However, the role of AtlA in bacterial biofilm formation is unclear. In this study, confocal laser scanning microscopy analysis showed that extracellular DNA (eDNA) was embedded in
S. mutans
GS5 floes during biofilm formation on damaged heart valves, but an Δ
atlA
strain could not form bacterial aggregates. Semiquantification of eDNA by PCR with bacterial 16S rRNA primers demonstrated that the Δ
atlA
mutant strain produced dramatically less eDNA than the wild type. Similar results were observed with
in vitro
biofilm models. The addition of polyanethol sulfonate, a chemical lysis inhibitor, revealed that eDNA release mediated by bacterial cell lysis is required for biofilm initiation and maturation in the wild-type strain. Supplementation of cultures with calcium ions reduced wild-type growth but increased eDNA release and biofilm mass. The effect of calcium ions on biofilm formation was abolished in Δ
atlA
cultures and by the addition of polyanethol sulfonate. The VicK sensor, but not CiaH, was found to be required for the induction of eDNA release or the stimulation of biofilm formation by calcium ions. These data suggest that calcium ion-regulated AtlA maturation mediates the release of eDNA by
S. mutans
, which contributes to biofilm formation in infective endocarditis.
Effectiveness of a targeted lifestyle intervention in primary care on diet and physical activity among South Asians at risk for diabetes: 2-year results of a randomised controlled trial in the Netherlands
Authors: Vlaar Everlina M A , Nierkens Vera , Nicolaou Mary , Middelkoop Barend J C , Busschers Wim B , Stronks Karien , van Valkengoed Irene G M
Published: July 2017

Objectives

In South Asian populations, little is known about the effects of intensive interventions to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes on health behaviour. We examined the effectiveness at 2 years of a culturally targeted lifestyle intervention on diet, physical activity and determinants of behaviour change among South Asians at risk for diabetes.

Design

Randomised controlled trial with de facto masking.

Setting

Primary care.

Participants

A total of 536 18- to 60-year-old South Asians at risk for diabetes (ie, with impaired glucose tolerance, impaired fasting glucose or relatively high insulin resistance) were randomised to the intervention (n=283) or a control (n=253) group. Data of 314 participants (n=165 intervention, n=149 control) were analysed.

Interventions

The culturally targeted intervention consisted of individual counselling using motivational interviewing (six to eight sessions in the first 6 months plus three to four booster sessions), a family session, cooking classes and a supervised physical activity programme. The control group received generic lifestyle advice.

Outcome measures

We compared changes in physical activity, diet and social-cognitive underlying determinants between the two groups at 2-year follow-up with independent-sample t-tests, chi-square tests and Fisher’s exact tests.

Results

At the 2-year follow-up, participants in the intervention group were more moderately to vigorously active than at baseline, but compared with changes in the control group, the difference was not significant (change min/week 142.9 vs 0.5, p=0.672). Also, no significant difference was found between the two groups in changes on any of the components of the diet or the social-cognitive determinants of diet and physical activity.

Conclusions

The culturally targeted lifestyle intervention led to high drop-out and was not effective in promoting healthy behaviour among South Asians at risk for diabetes. Given the high a priori risk, we recommend to develop new strategies, preferably more acceptable, to promote healthy behaviour.

Trial registration

NTR1499; Results.www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=1499
Mandibular infiltrative lipoma in a mixed breed dog
Authors: Lai Grace Pei‐Chun , Selmic Laura E , Hummel David H , Joslyn Stephen K
Published: July 2017

Lipoma is a neoplastic process of well‐differentiated adipocytes that is clearly demarcated from the adjacent tissues. An infiltrative lipoma has histopathological features similar to a simple lipoma, with well‐differentiated adipose cells. The distinctive difference with infiltrative lipoma is the capacity to infiltrate into surrounding tissues such as muscle fibres, vessels, nerves and bones. Considering the cytologically benign characteristics of this tumour, the diagnosis of infiltrative lipoma must be confirmed by histological assessment to identify margin and involvement of surrounding tissue. This case report provides an additional differential diagnosis (infiltrative lipoma) to consider when seeing a canine patient with facial mass. In the case described here, wide resection of the mandibular infiltrative lipoma provided long‐term remission without the need of additional treatment.
Nonlocalized postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE) effects in trained athletes: a pilot study
Authors: Cuenca-Fernández Francisco , Smith Ian C. , Jordan Matthew J. , MacIntosh Brian R. , López-Contreras Gracia , Arellano Raúl , Herzog Walter
Published: July 2017

Fifteen trained athletes were assessed for postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE) of squat jumps (SJs) and power push-ups (PPUs) following upper body activation, lower body activation, upper and lower body activation, and rest. SJ improved similarly across all 4 conditions. PPU could not be assessed. Since the test protocol of SJ and PPU involved upper and lower body activation and caused PAPE in SJ, future work is required to determine if a nonlocalized PAPE effect exists.
Bulk viscous string cosmological models in f(R) gravity
Authors: Santhi M. Vijaya , Rao V.U.M. , Aditya Y.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we derive f(R) gravity field equations with the help of a spatially homogeneous and anisotropic Bianchi type-III space–time, in the presence of a bulk viscous fluid, containing one-dimensional cosmic strings. Here we obtained the solutions of the field equations, both in the presence and in the absence of cosmic strings, under some specific plausible physical conditions. In particular, cosmological models with bulk viscous strings in f(R) theory of gravity are obtained by using the special law of variation for Hubble’s parameter proposed by Berman (Nuovo Cimento, B74, 182 (1983)). Various physical and kinematical properties of the models are also discussed.
Experimental evidence for concentration-dependence and intraspecific variation of movement behaviour in American lobster (Homarus americanus) larvae
Authors: Pedersen Eric J. , Stanley Ryan R.E. , Snelgrove Paul V.R. , Guichard Frédéric
Published: July 2017

Predicting dispersal paths of marine larvae with extended pelagic durations, such as American lobster (Homarus americanus H. Milne Edwards, 1837), requires understanding the cues to which larvae respond, and how that response reflects changes in larval behaviour. If larvae respond to conspecific presence by varying their movement, then this behaviour can bias laboratory estimates of environmental responses. We tested whether larvae actively decreased their local intraspecific density by measuring how the vertical distribution of larvae changed under high versus low concentrations of conspecifics. We observed weak increases in vertical dispersion at higher concentrations both in newly hatched larvae and in postlarvae, but not in intermediate larval stages. We also tested for differences in horizontal swimming behaviour in high and low concentrations, by fitting a novel random walk model that allowed us to model both larval interactions and persistent turning behaviours. We showed substantial reduction in diffusive behaviour under high concentration conditions resulting from more frequent turns by each larva, but no evidence for consistent avoidance of conspecifics. Our study is the first to demonstrate concentration-dependent behaviours in lobster larvae.
Can abortive early homologous associations promote increased crossing-over in an adjacent rearranged segment?
Authors: Maguire Marjorie P.
Published: July 2017

Meiotic pairing behavior of rearranged chromosome segments is compared across an informative series of combinations. The question is raised whether the simplest explanation for some peculiar findings may include a sequence of synaptic precursor events at leptotene or zygotene, the course of which may eventually strongly affect crossover frequency.Key words: meiosis, synapsis, crossing-over, rearrangement.
The cytology of hybrids between Hordeum vulgare and H. bulbosum revisited
Authors: Jie Xu , Snape J. W.
Published: July 2017

Diploid and triploid interspecific hybrids were produced from crosses between four Hordeum vulgare varieties and two diploid and two tetraploid Hordeum bulbosum genotypes. These were studied cytologically using a C-banding technique as well as with conventional staining procedures. C-banding of mitotic preparations of the hybrids enabled all H. vulgare chromosomes to be identified individually, although only the satellited chromosome of H. bulbosum could be distinguished from the others of this genome. Most diploid hybrids had stable somatic chromosome constitutions (2n = 14), although 4 out of 39 plants had a mosaic constitution. Chromosome counts of triploid hybrids, however, revealed that about 40% of plants had a mosaic somatic constitution ranging from 7–22 chromosomes per cell, although 21-chromosome cells were at the highest frequency. Studies of meiosis in diploid hybrids showed that the frequency of pairing between H. vulgare and H. bulbosum chromosomes varied between different cross combinations and appeared to be mainly under the control of the H. bulbosum genome. C-banding revealed that H. vulgare chromosome 6 paired with the satellited chromosome of H. bulbosum. However, this latter chromosome was also absent in the majority of aneuploid cells and appeared to be the first to be eliminated. Meiosis in triploid hybrids was characterized by the presence of univalents, bivalents, and trivalents and, infrequently, higher order associations. Bivalents were formed mainly from pairing between H. bulbosum chromosomes alone, although trivalents were formed from pairing between two H. bulbosum and one H. vulgare chromosomes. All univalents, in cells that contained less than seven, were H. vulgare chromosomes. Overall, these results indicate that a high frequency of homoeologous allosyndesis can occur between the chromosomes of these two species, but it does depend on the H. bulbosum genotype used. It should be possible to introgress genes into H. vulgare through the use of H. bulbosum genotypes that have low frequencies of elimination and high chromosome pairing.Key words: Hordeum vulgare, H. bulbosum, C-banding, chromosome pairing.
Comparison of the orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylase sequences of eight species
Authors: Radford A. , Dix N. I. M.
Published: July 2017

Predicted amino acid sequences of the enzyme orotidine 5′-phosphate decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.23) from eight different organisms are compared. The comparisons are made on the basis of primary structural differences, primary amino acid sequence, hydropathy profiles, and secondary structure predictions. The organisms compared are Mus musculus, Aspergillus nidulans, Neurospora crassa, Kluyveromyces lactis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium.Key words: amino acid sequence, decarboxylase-OMP.
Isolation and characterization of wheat–Elytrigia elongata chromosome 3E and 5E addition and substitution lines
Authors: Tuleen N. A. , Hart G. E.
Published: July 2017

Isozyme markers were used to develop Triticum aestivum cv. Chinese Spring–Elytrigia elongata (= Agropyron elongatum, 2n = 14, genome E) disomic 3E and 5E addition lines. Subsequently, all possible lines containing 3E and 5E substituted for wheat homoeologues and several 3E and 5E ditelosomic addition and substitution lines were developed. Plants containing chromosome 3E substituted for wheat chromosomes of homoeologous group 3 are similar to 'Chinese Spring' in vigor and fertility while plants containing 3EL substituted for chromosomes of group 3 are less fertile than 'Chinese Spring'. This indicates that both arms of 3E are involved in sporophytic compensation. Plants containing chromosome 5E substituted for wheat chromosomes of homoeologous group 5 are as vigorous but less fertile than 'Chinese Spring'. 5EL (5A) and 5EL (5B) plants are lower in fertility than 5E (5A) and 5E (5B) plants, indicating that both arms of 5E are involved in sporophytic compensation. 5E (5D) and 5EL (5D) plants are similar in fertility. Male gametophytes in which 3E or 5E replaces a wheat homoeologue function at a lower rate than normal gametes.Key words: wheat, Triticum, Elytrigia elongata, alien chromosome addition lines.
U-type exchanges in Muscari comosum L. (Liliaceae)
Authors: Rejon C. Ruiz , Lozano R. , Rejon M. Ruiz
Published: July 2017

Some meiotic abnormalities, such as univalent formation, side-arm bridges, and bridges with fragments, were observed during both meiotic divisions in some individuals of Muscari comosum L. from one Spanish population. The latter aberrations were also detected during mitotic divisions. The majority of these abnormalities involved the first long pair of chromosomes. The exact nature of sister chromatid bridges has still not been elucidated. U-type exchanges can be explained on the basis of abnormal breakage and reunion occurring in the euchromatin that is near the heterochromatin present in the interstitial region of the long arm of the first bivalent. In accordance with the last aspect, there is no correlation between the distribution pattern of chiasmata within the first bivalent and the meiotic U-type exchanges. Spontaneous breakage and reunion events produce new combinations of chromosome segments in the first pair of chromosomes of M. comosum, and hence have been important from an evolutionary point of view in the origin of chromosome polymorphisms in this plant species.Key words: Muscari comosum, meiosis, side-arm bridges, U-type exchanges, chiasmata distribution.
Growth and body composition of mice selected for high body weight
Authors: Bailey David R. C. , Salmon R. Keith , Berg Roy T. , Fredeen Howard T.
Published: July 2017

To elucidate the influence of high body weight selection on body compositional relationships, the accumulation of lipid, protein, and ash was investigated in two lines of mice selected for high 42-day body weight (H lines) and an unselected foundation population (FP). The two H lines differed in population size and were designated as the high–large (HL) and high–small (HS) lines. Logistic body growth curves revealed that HL mice exhibited an accelerated growth rate and reached a higher mature body weight than FP or HS mice. Over the range of body weights examined, HL mice had more lipid, less protein, and less ash than FP or HS mice of the same sex and body weight. However, HL lipid accumulation (relative to body weight increase) was not accelerated in comparison to that of FP mice. This study suggests that the existing model of selection-mediated compositional changes requires expansion to account for the ability of high-growth selection to direct an acceleration of body growth without a correlated enhancement of the relative rate of fat accumulation.Key words: mice, selection, body composition.
Studies on the expression and evolution of the glycogen phosphorylase gene family in the rat
Authors: Crerar Michael M. , Hudson John W. , Matthews Kathryn E. , David Emina S. , Golding G. Brian
Published: July 2017

Muscle, liver, and brain glycogen phosphorylases in mammals comprise a family of closely related isozymes that are differentially expressed in a wide variety of cell types. Towards obtaining a better understanding of the mechanisms governing the tissue-specific control of expression of this isozyme family, we used an antibody generated against bovine liver phosphorylase to obtain quantitative estimates of the concentrations of the three isozymes in rat tissues by Western blot analysis. This analysis indicated that expression of these isozymes at the protein level, although widespread, was tissue-specific and each isozyme exhibited variations in expression throughout the tissues where it was produced. We also began a preliminary analysis of the evolution of the genes encoding these three isozymes. Towards this end, we isolated and sequenced a partial cDNA to the rat brain isozyme that encompassed the coding region from amino acids 569 to 729. Using known phosphorylase gene sequences, we reconstructed a phylogeny spanning three kingdoms. This phylogeny indicated that brain and muscle isozymes are more closely related to each other than to the liver isozyme and that gene duplications that gave rise to the family predate the mammalian radiation. Differences in the relative rates of change of the three isozymes were observed and this may reflect different constraints on their evolution perhaps related to their functional roles and (or) tissue-specific expression.Key words: glycogen phosphorylase, cDNA, phylogenetic history, evolution.
Evaluation of take-all resistance in wheat–alien amphiploid and chromosome substitution lines
Authors: Conner R. L. , MacDonald M. D. , Whelan E. D. P.
Published: July 2017

A series of field and controlled environment tests of 'Winalta' – Aegilops squarrosa substitutions for the D genome found that only the 6D substitution line was significantly more resistant to take-all (Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici) than 'Winalta'. Substitutions in 'Winalta' for chromosomes 5D and 6D by homeologous chromosomes from Agropyron elongatum and chromosome 4B for chromosome 4 from Agropyron intermedium had no effect on resistance to take-all. The wheat – Agropyron trichophorum amphiploid 'Agrotana' was also found to be susceptible to take-all. Vernalization increased take-all severity and obscured differences between 'Winalta' – Ae. squarrosa 6D and susceptible lines and cultivars. 'Winalta' – Ae. squarrosa 6D had significantly less disease and a higher plant weight than 'Winalta' at low and moderate inoculum concentrations, but the resistance of 'Winalta' – Ae. squarrosa 6D was not effective at the highest inoculum concentration. There was a strong negative correlation between take-all severity and plant weight.Key words: Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, Aegilops squarrosa, Agropyron elongatum, Agropyron intermedium, Triticum aestivum, chromosome substitution, resistance.
In vitro analyses of cuticular differentiation at the chromosomal level in Lucilia sericata
Authors: Schmiemann Manfred G. , Bentley1 Michael M.
Published: July 2017

The large bristles of flies sclerotize and melanize during the pupal phase well before the rest of the cuticle. Each bristle is the product of two cells, the trichogen cell and the tormogen cell. Both their nuclei exhibit analyzable polytene chromosomes. The pupal metathoracic integument of Lucilia sericata has been excised and cultivated in Schneider's Drosophila medium for extended periods of time. Among the differentiations taking place in vitro, the most obvious is the stiffening and coloring of the bristles. The in vitro differentiation very much resembles the in vivo differentiation in its timing and appearance. Explants excised early in pupal development cannot differentiate in vitro, while those excised and cultured at later stages can. Actinomycin D was administered to the culture medium and the incorporation of [3H]uridine was analyzed after long incubations to determine if this process was a reaction of dead cuticle or controlled by living cells. The analysis of chromosome structure and puffing patterns in the five polytene chromosomes of the trichogen cell after in vitro cultivation shows that transcriptional activity is not dependent on the existence of normal chromosome conformation. The degree of pycnotic reaction and puff induction of the nuclei, however, varied under different culture conditions. The capacity of this system for differentiation can be used to study in vitro chromosomal activity during the course of development.Key words: in vitro, polytene chromosomes, sclerotization, cuticle.
An advanced generation of Aranda orchids
Authors: Lee Y. H. , Tham F. Y.
Published: July 2017

Aranda orchids are a group of artificially bred intergeneric hybrids between member species (2n = 38) of two natural genera, Vanda and Arachnis, of Orchidaceae. Nine second generation Aranda cultivars were selected for analysis of somatic chromosome numbers, meiotic behaviour, and sporad formation. Eight of the cultivars were derived from Aranda × Vanda crosses and one from an Aranda × Aranda cross. Chromosome counts of their root tip cells showed that eight of them contained 2n = 3x = 57 chromosomes each, presumably resulting from unreduced eggs of the Aranda parent fertilized by haploid Vanda pollen. The ninth revealed 2n = 2x = 38 chromosomes. Pollen mother cells of eight of the cultivars (2n = 3x = 57) commonly formed more than 10 bivalents, presumably between homologous Vanda chromosomes, as well as many univalents, mainly of Arachnis chromosomes. Only 8–10 bivalents were observed in pollen mother cells of the ninth cultivar (2n = 2x = 38). All the cultivars formed a range of dyads containing unreduced microspores. Two mechanisms are proposed for the origin of these dyad sporads.Key words: Aranda orchids, intergeneric hybrids, cytology.
Non-Hermitian interaction of a discrete state with a continuum
Authors: Longhi Stefano
Published: July 2017

The interaction of a discrete state coupled to a continuum is a longstanding problem of major interest in different areas of quantum and classical physics. In Hermitian models, several dynamical decoupling schemes have been suggested, in which the discrete-continuum interaction can be substantially reduced and even suppressed. In this work, we consider a discrete state interacting with a continuum via a time-dependent non-Hermitian coupling with finite (albeit arbitrarily long) duration, and show rather generally that for a wide class of coupling temporal shapes, in which the real and imaginary parts of the coupling are related each other by a Hilbert transform, the discrete state returns to its initial condition after the interaction with the continuum, while the continuum keeps trace of the interaction. Such a behavior, which does not have any counterpart in Hermitian dynamics, can be referred to as non-Hermitian pseudo decoupling. Non-Hermitian pseudo decoupling is illustrated by considering a non-Hermitian extension of the Fano–Anderson model in a one-dimensional tight-binding lattice. Such a non-Hermitian model can describe, for example, photonic hopping dynamics in a tight-binding chain of optical microrings or resonators, in which non-Hermitian coupling can be realized by fast modulation of the real and imaginary (gain/loss) parts of the refractive index of the edge microring.
A Memristive Hyperchaotic Multiscroll Jerk System with Controllable Scroll Numbers
Authors: Wang Chunhua , Xia Hu , Zhou Ling
Published: July 2017

A memristor is the fourth circuit element, which has wide applications in chaos generation. In this paper, a four-dimensional hyperchaotic jerk system based on a memristor is proposed, where the scroll number of the memristive jerk system is controllable. The new system is constructed by introducing one extra flux-controlled memristor into three-dimensional multiscroll jerk system. We can get different scroll attractors by varying the strength of memristor in this system without changing the circuit structure. Such a method for controlling the scroll number without changing the circuit structure is very important in designing the modern circuits and systems. The new memristive jerk system can exhibit a hyperchaotic attractor, which has more complex dynamic behavior. Furthermore, coexisting attractors are observed in the system. Phase portraits, dissipativity, equilibria, Lyapunov exponents and bifurcation diagrams are analyzed. Finally, the circuit implementation is carried out to verify the new system.
In Situ Bioremediation of Crude Petroleum Oil Polluted Soil Using Mathematical Experimentation
Authors: Ojewumi Modupe Elizabeth , Emetere Moses Eterigho , Babatunde Damilola Elizabeth , Okeniyi Joshua Olusegun
Published: July 2017

Mathematical modelling of in situ (on site) bioremediation of crude petroleum polluted soil was investigated. An unsteady state mathematical model based on bulk flow of oil through the soil and molecular diffusion through the pores of the soil was developed. The parabolic partial differential equation developed was resolved into a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by orthogonal collocation method and the necessary boundary condition was used. The resultant system of ODE was solved using fourth-order Runge-Kutta method. The simulated data gave a good agreement with experimental data.
Experimental Study on the Localization of Moving Object by Total Geomagnetic Field
Authors: Kang Chong , Fan Liming , Zheng Quan , Kang Xiyuan , Zhou Jian , Zhang Xiaojun
Published: July 2017

In the method of target localization based on magnetic anomalies, the scheme of vector field localization and experimental research are significant. Because more information of magnetic field can be measured by vector sensors, the position of the target can be directly calculated by the equations. However, the vector magnetic anomaly generated by the target is difficult to measure. And the detection range is small due to the low sensitivity of vector sensors. A method for target localization based on the total geomagnetic field is proposed. Its advantages are that the measurement of total magnetic field is not affected by the orientation of the total field sensors and the detection range is large due to their high sensitivity. In this paper, we focus on the localization using the array with the total field magnetometers. And we design an array structure with the total field magnetometers. Then, we obtain the higher order nonlinear equations for the target localization based on this array. The numerical method is used to solve the equations. Meanwhile, we present a method for eliminating the effect of geomagnetic field variations and uneven spatial distribution. In suburban roads, localization experiments were carried out. And the results showed that the relative error of target localization is less than 5% by using the proposed method.
Teachers’ Experiences with Networked Classrooms in Norway
Authors: Helleve Ingrid , Almås Aslaug Grov
Published: July 2017

The aim of this study, based on response on a questionnaire from 65 teachers in upper secondary schools, is to gain insight into how teachers experience and practice their role as leaders in the digital classroom. Research shows that teachers seldom are asked about their opinions concerning use of technical device. From 2007 all Norwegian students in upper secondary schools were given a computer from the authorities. Politicians argued for pedagogical use of ICT, for example, through interactive device like social networking sites. However, recent national reports show that teachers mainly use ICT for administrative and not for pedagogical purposes. Findings from the current study show that teachers adjust the technology to their existing pedagogy and continue their existing practice. To a small extent the technology’s interactive abilities are utilized. Technological device is powerful. Possible consequences of placing technology on every student’s desk are discussed. The teachers’ future concern is to control Internet and to have possibilities to develop and discuss pedagogical use of technology in classrooms with their colleagues.
Acute Radiological Abnormalities after Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Prospective Cohort Trial
Authors: d'Hooghe Julia N.S. , van den Berk Inge A.H. , Annema Jouke T. , Bonta Peter I.
Published: July 2017

Background: Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a novel treatment for severe asthma based on radiofrequency energy delivery to the larger airways. Although impressive radiological abnormalities have been reported, the incidence, pattern, and behavior over time of acute radiological abnormalities following BT are not well established. Objective: To assess the incidence pattern and behavior over time of acute radiological abnormalities following BT. Methods: This is a prospective, observational imaging study of severe asthma patients participating in the TASMA trial. Imaging of the lung (chest X-ray and/or computed tomography [CT]) was performed routinely before and directly after BT, within 6 weeks and at 6 months' follow-up. Results: Thirty-four chest X-rays were performed within <5 h following 34 BT procedures in 12 patients. In 91% of cases, radiological abnormalities were seen, designated as peribronchial consolidations (97%) and/or atelectasis (29%). Ultra-low-dose (ULD) chest CTs were performed following 16 BT procedures showing abnormalities in all. Four different radiological patterns were identified: peribronchial consolidations with surrounding ground glass opacities (94%), atelectasis (38%), partial bronchial occlusions (63%), and bronchial dilatations (19%). No bronchoscopic intervention was needed. At 6 months' follow-up, in a single patient, high-resolution chest CT showed a focal bronchiectasis in a single airway. Conclusions: There is a high incidence of acute radiological abnormalities after BT. Four distinct radiological patterns can be identified on ULD chest CT, which resolve without clinical impact in virtually all cases.
Two Siblings with a Mutation in CCDC8 Presenting with Mild Short Stature: A Case of 3-M Syndrome
Authors: Liao Lihong , Gan Hoong-Wei , Hwa Vivian , Dattani Mehul , Dauber Andrew
Published: July 2017

Background: Short stature can be caused by mutations in a multitude of different genes. 3-M syndrome is a rare growth disorder marked by severe pre- and postnatal growth retardation along with subtle dysmorphic features. There have only been 2 prior reports of mutations in CCDC8 causing 3-M syndrome. Methods: Two patients presenting with mild short stature underwent whole exome sequencing. The mutation was confirmed via Sanger sequencing. We compare the clinical characteristics of our 2 patients to patients previously reported with mutations in the same gene. Results: Exome sequencing identified a homozygous frameshift mutation in CCDC8 in both patients. They presented with a much milder phenotype than previously described patients with the same mutation. Conclusion: In this study, we report a case of 2 sisters with relatively mild short stature who were found via exome sequencing to carry a previously reported homozygous mutation in CCDC8. These patients expand the anthropometric phenotype of 3-M syndrome and demonstrate the power of exome sequencing in the diagnosis of children with short stature. 3-M syndrome should be considered in children with mild skeletal abnormalities, normal/high growth hormone-IGF axis parameters, and normal intelligence.
High-Performance Membrane Dialyzers and Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients: A 2-Year Cohort Study from the Annual Survey of the Japanese Renal Data Registry
Authors: Abe Masanori , Hamano Takayuki , Wada Atsushi , Nakai Shigeru , Masakane Ikuto
Published: July 2017

Background: Little information is available regarding the type of dialyzer which results in good prognosis. This study is aimed at investigating the association between 7 types of dialyzers and 2-year mortality. Methods: We conducted a cohort study using data from a nationwide registry of the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy. Subjects were 136,676 patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) between 2009 and 2011 who underwent maintenance HD for at least 2 years and were treated with one of the following 7 types of high-performance membrane dialyzers: cellulose triacetate (CTA), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVAL), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polyester polymer alloy (PEPA), polyethersulfone (PES), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and polysulfone (PS). Cox regression was used to estimate the association between baseline dialyzers and all-cause 2-year mortality, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Data were adjusted using basic factors, with PS as a reference group, and the hazard ratio (HR) was significantly higher in CTA, PMMA, PAN, and EVAL groups. Further data adjustment for Kt/V yielded the same results as were obtained from data adjusted for basic factors. After further adjustment for nutrition- and inflammation-related factors, HR was significantly lowered for the PES and PMMA groups compared with the PS group (HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.82-0.94 and HR 0.84 95% CI 0.76-0.93, respectively). After propensity score matching, HR for the PES and PMMA groups was significantly lowered compared with the PS group. Conclusions: The use of different membrane types may affect mortality. Further long-term prospective studies are needed to clarify whether the PES and PMMA membranes can improve prognosis.
СИНТЕЗ ТА БІОЛОГІЧНА АКТИВНІСТЬ НОВИХ ПОХІДНИХ 5-АМІНОМЕТИЛЕН-2-ТІОКСОТІАЗОЛІДИН-4-ОНІВ
Authors: Derkach G. O. , Golota S. M. , Trufin Ya. O. , Roman O. M. , Sementsiv G. M. , Demchuk I. L. , Soronovych I. I. , Kutsyk R. V. , Grellier Philippe , Lesyk R. B.
Published: July 2017

Мета роботи. Синтез нових похідних 5-амінометилен-2-тіоксотіазолідин-4-онів як перспективних сполук для хімічних перетворень та фармакологічного скринінгу.Матеріали і методи. Ключові вихідні реагенти синтезовані за відомими методиками із комерційно доступних реактивів. Спектри ПМР одержаних сполук знімались на приладі Varian VXR-400, розчинник DMSO-d6, стандарт - тетраметилсилан. LC-MS спектри отримані на приладі Finnigan MAT INCOS-50. Дані елементного аналізу на вміст карбону, гідрогену та нітрогену відповідають розрахованим (±0,3%). Температуру плавлення визначали на приладі BŰCHI B-545. Вивчення протитрипаносомної активності сполук in vitro проводилося в Національному музеї історії природи (Франція) та полягало у визначенні інгібуючої концентрації ІС50 сполук на штамі Trypanosoma brucei brucei (TBB). Дослідження протимікробної активності іn vitro проводилося методом дифузії в агар. Визначення протипухлинної активності синтезованих сполук виконувалось у рамках міжнародної наукової програми DTP (Developmental Therapeutic Program) Національного інституту раку (NCI, Бетезда, Меріленд, США).Результати й обговорення. На основі раніше запропонованого синтетичного підходу до 5-R,R'- амінометиленпохідних-4-тіазолідинонів отримано серію 5-амінометилен-2-тіоксотіазолідин-4-онів (5-амінометил- енроданінів). Вперше запропоновано ефективний метод синтезу 5-амінометилен-2-тіоксотіазолідин-4-ону, який базується на амінолізі відповідного 5-етоксиметилензаміщеного при дії гідрокарбонату амонію в спиртовому середовищі. Вперше досліджено реакційну здатність 5-феніл-3,4-дигідро-2Н-піразол-3-карбонової кислоти в реакції амінолізу з 5-етоксиметилен-2-тіоксотіазолідин-4-оном. Структура синтезованих сполук підтверджена комплексом методів ЯМР- та мас-спектрометрій. Досліджено in vitro антитрипаносомну, протимікробну та протипухлинну активність синтезованих сполук.Висновки. Запропоновано методи синтезу та отримано ряд оригінальних похідних з 5-амінометиленроданіновим каркасом як перспективних реагентів для хімічних перетворень та потенційних об’єктів для фармакологічного скринінгу. Ідентифіковано сполуки-хіти для дизайну потенційних антитрипаносомних та протимікробних агентів.
ВИБІР ДОПОМІЖНИХ РЕЧОВИН З МЕТОЮ ОТРИМАННЯ ТАБЛЕТОК НА ОСНОВІ КАРБАМАЗЕПІНУ З ТІОТРИАЗОЛІНОМ МЕТОДОМ ВОЛОГОЇ ГРАНУЛЯЦІЇ
Authors: Kucherenko L. I. , Nimenko G. R. , Moryak Z. B.
Published: July 2017

Мета роботи. Обгрунтувати доцільність створення комбінованого лікарського засобу на основі карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном. Вивчити вплив ДР на процес пресування, якість поверхні та однорідність маси таблеток на основі карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном, які отримували методом вологої грануляції.Матеріали і методи. Діючі речовини - карбамазепін з тіотриазоліном (1,5:1), допоміжні речовини (наповнювачі, розпушувачі, зв’язуючі, змазуючі). Таблетки пресували методом вологої грануляції. Вплив ДР речовин на таблетки карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном вивчали за такими показниками: процес пресування, зовнішній вигляд поверхні таблеток після виготовлення, однорідність дозування маси таблеток.Результати й обговорення. За результатами дисперсійного аналізу експериментальних даних було встановлено, що на процес пресування, зовнішній вигляд поверхні таблеток після виготовлення та однорідність дозування маси таблеток карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном впливає природа наповнювача, розпушувача, зв’язуючих та змазуючих ДР Так, на процес пресування таблеток серед наповнювачів найкращий вплив має МКЦ 101, серед розпушувачів лідером є крохмаль преджелатанізований.На якість поверхні таблеток карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном після виготовлення серед розпушувачів найбільший позитивний вплив має крохмаль картопляний. На однорідність дозування маси таблеток серед змазуючих речовин лідером є кислота стеаринова, серед розпушувачів перевага на боці крохмалю преджелатанізованого, серед наповнювачів лідером є МКЦ 101, серед зв’язуючих найбільший вплив має 2 % розчин ГПМЦ.Висновки. Вивчено вплив чотирьох груп допоміжних речовин на процес пресування, зовнішній вигляд та однорідність дозування таблеток карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном. Більшість із вивчених 16-ти ДР придатна для отримання таблеток карбамазепіну з тіотриазоліном методом вологої грануляції. За дослідженими показниками (процес пресування, якість поверхні таблеток, однорідність дозування) побудовані діаграми переваг рівнів вивчених факторів.
ТРАНСДЕРМАЛЬНІ СИСТЕМИ ДОСТАВКИ ЛІКАРСЬКИХ РЕЧОВИН
Authors: Vons B. V. , Chubka M. B. , Hroshovyi T. A.
Published: July 2017

Мета роботи. Узагальнити дані літературних джерел щодо переваг та недоліків, класифікації, особливостей технології трансдермальних терапевтичних систем.Матеріали і методи. У роботі використано методи інформаційного пошуку, аналізу даних літератури щодо трансдермальних систем та перспектив їх використання у медичній практиці.Результати й обговорення. Трансдермальні терапевтичні системи доставки лікарських речовин успішно розвиваються як альтернатива системному введенню ЛР та являють собою препарати, які наносяться на поверхню тіла і призначені для доставки певної дози активного фармацевтичного інгредієнта через шар шкіри безпосередньо в кров’яне русло або ж сприяють загоєнню травмованої ділянки тіла. Усі трансдермальні системи класифікують за трьома поколіннями розвитку. Залежно від методу введення лікарських речовин в систему, вони поділяються на три категорії: системи матричного, резервуарного та мікрорезервуарного типів.Висновки. Переваги таких лікарських засобів та позитивні рішення впровадження розробок трансдермальних терапевтичних систем у промислове виробництво активізували науково-дослідницьку діяльність у даному напрямку.