bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic control of plasticity of oil yield for combined abiotic stresses using a joint approach of crop modelling and genome‐wide association
Authors: Mangin Brigitte , Casadebaig Pierre , Cadic Eléna , Blanchet Nicolas , Boniface Marie‐Claude , Carrère Sébastien , Gouzy Jérôme , Legrand Ludovic , Mayjonade Baptiste , Pouilly Nicolas , André Thierry , Coque Marie , Piquemal Joël , Laporte Marion , Vincourt Patrick , Muños Stéphane , Langlade Nicolas B.
Published: April 2017

Understanding the genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity is crucial for predicting and managing climate change effects on wild plants and crops. Here, we combined crop modelling and quantitative genetics to study the genetic control of oil yield plasticity for multiple abiotic stresses in sunflower.

First, we developed stress indicators to characterize 14 environments for three abiotic stresses (cold, drought and nitrogen) using the SUNFLO crop model and phenotypic variations of three commercial varieties. The computed plant stress indicators better explain yield variation than descriptors at the climatic or crop levels. In those environments, we observed oil yield of 317 sunflower hybrids and regressed it with three selected stress indicators. The slopes of cold stress norm reaction were used as plasticity phenotypes in the following genome‐wide association study.

Among the 65 534 tested Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), we identified nine quantitative trait loci controlling oil yield plasticity to cold stress. Associated single nucleotide polymorphisms are localized in genes previously shown to be involved in cold stress responses: oligopeptide transporters, lipid transfer protein, cystatin, alternative oxidase or root development. This novel approach opens new perspectives to identify genomic regions involved in genotype‐by‐environment interaction of a complex traits to multiple stresses in realistic natural or agronomical conditions.
ICU mortality is increased with high admission serum osmolarity in all patients other than those admitted with pulmonary diseases and hypoxia
Authors: Bihari Shailesh , Prakash Shivesh , Peake Sandra L. , Bailey Michael , Pilcher David , Bersten Andrew
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

High serum osmolarity has been shown to be lung protective. There is lack of clinical studies evaluating the impact on outcomes such as mortality. We aimed to examine the effect of serum osmolarity on intensive care unit (ICU) mortality in critically ill patients

Methods

Data from January 2000 to December 2012 was accessed using the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society (ANZICS) Clinical Outcomes and Resource Evaluation (CORE) database. A total of 509 180 patients were included. Serum osmolarity was calculated from data during the first 24 h of ICU admission. Predefined subgroups (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) III diagnostic codes), including patients with acute pulmonary diagnoses, were examined. The effect of serum osmolarity on ICU mortality was assessed with analysis adjusted for illness severity (serum sodium, glucose and urea component removed) and year of admission. Results are presented as OR (95% CI) referenced against a serum osmolarity of 290–295 mmol/L.

Results

The ICU mortality was elevated at each extremes of serum osmolarity (U‐shaped relationship). A similar relationship was found in various subgroups, with the exception of patients with pulmonary diagnoses in whom ICU mortality was not influenced by high serum osmolarity and was different from other non‐pulmonary subgroups (P < 0.01). Any adverse associations with high serum osmolarity in pulmonary patients were confined to patients with a PaO2
/FiO2
ratio > 200.

Conclusion

High admission serum osmolarity was not associated with increased odds for ICU death in pulmonary patients, unlike other subgroup of patients, and could be a potential area for future interventional therapy.
“Race Tests”: Racial Boundary Maintenance in White Evangelical Churches
Authors: Bracey Glenn E. , Moore Wendy Leo
Published: April 2017

How and why do nominally open organizations remain racially segregated in the post‐civil rights era? What role do interpersonal interactions play in the perpetuation of segregation? Using ethnographic data gathered from seven, majority white, evangelical churches across four states, we find that social actors (i.e., clergy and congregants) play a central role in continuing racial segregation by executing “race tests” on people of color who attempt to gain entry to these spaces. Race tests are performances by white individuals and groups, in the presence of incoming people of color. They utilize racial microaggressions, playing on persistent racist stereotypes and/or histories of racial violence, to preclude or precondition people of color's participation in predominantly white social spaces. White actors in white social spaces initiate utility‐based race tests to determine whether people of color are willing to serve the interests of whites in the space, or execute exclusionary race tests to coerce people of color into leaving the space. We provide examples of both types of race tests and discuss the role of such microaggressions and the racialized emotions at play in the reproduction of segregation in historically white social spaces like white evangelical churches.
Effects of riboflavin and ultraviolet light treatment on platelet thrombus formation and thrombus stability on collagen
Authors: Terada Chikahiro , Shiba Masayuki , Nagai Tadashi , Satake Masahiro
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Pathogen reduction technologies (PRTs) are considered for the implementation of safer platelet (PLT) transfusion. PRT treatment involves the addition of a photosensitizer to a blood component followed by ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. However, the effects of PRT treatment on PLT thrombus formation and thrombus stability have not been satisfactorily clarified.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Leukoreduced PLT concentrates (PCs) were treated with riboflavin and UV light (Mirasol PRT). PLT thrombus formation on collagen was evaluated by the microchannel method, by which the total amount of PLTs deposited was measured as indices of thrombus formation and thrombus stability. Using a cone‐plate shear‐induced PLT aggregometer, PLT reactivity in blood flow was examined in a wide range of shear stresses of 6 to 108 dyn/cm2.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in surface coverage between PRT‐treated PLTs and control PLTs on collagen. On the other hand, the total amount of PRT‐treated PLTs deposited was higher than that of control PLTs. The promotive effect of PRT treatment on PLT deposition completely disappeared in the presence of tirofiban, a potent integrin αIIbβ3 inhibitor. The percentage of the dissociation of PRT‐treated PLTs on collagen was lower than that of control PLTs after flushing with phosphate‐buffered saline. PRT treatment significantly inhibited PLT aggregation under high‐shear‐stress conditions.

CONCLUSION

Riboflavin‐based PRT treatment of PCs leads to the enhancement of PLT thrombus formation and thrombus stability on collagen. However, it does not enhance the reactivity of PLTs not in contact with collagen under high‐shear‐stress conditions.
A contribution to a multidimensional analysis of trade competition
Authors: Moreira Sandrina , Simoes Nadia , Crespo Nuno
Published: April 2017

International trade grew substantially throughout the last decades and international relations became more important for the economic performance of the countries. Simultaneously, new poles emerged in the international arena leading to growing competition for higher market shares. Therefore, trade competition is a critical dimension of analysis for applied international trade studies. We propose a conceptual framework for measuring this phenomenon by combining some critical previous contributions to build a multidimensional and more comprehensive concept, which defines trade competition as a function of the degree of both structural similarity and total exports overlap. Moreover, structural similarity should take into account three elements: sectoral shares similarity, inter‐sectoral similarity (evaluating how different the distinct sectors are) and intra‐sectoral similarity (proximity in terms of quality ranges exported). Several measures are proposed to empirically capture the concept suggested. Finally, we present an example including the exports of six European economies (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Greece, Hungary and Sweden) to 124 destination markets (in 2007, 2011, 2015) in order to illustrate the application of the concept and measures suggested.
Retrospective evaluation of coyote attacks in dogs: 154 cases (1997–2012)
Authors: Frauenthal Virginia M. , Bergman Philip , Murtaugh Robert J.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To describe the clinical presentation and outcome of known attacks in client‐owned dogs caused by the common coyote, Canis latrans.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Private referral hospital.

Animals

One hundred fifty‐four client‐owned dogs known to be attacked by coyotes.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Records from a private referral hospital from May 1997 through December 2012 were reviewed. Time of day and month/season of year, signalment, body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, body weight, location and severity of wounds inflicted, common injuries, length of hospitalization, necessity of surgical wound repair under anesthesia, antimicrobial use and mortality were recorded. Eighty‐six percent of dogs presenting following coyote attack weighed <10 kg. Overall mortality rate was 15.6%. Dogs with bite wounds to the thorax had the highest mortality at 21.3%. Criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) based on admission vital signs were met in 58.8% of dogs and the presence of SIRS was significantly associated with mortality (P < 0.001). Common coyote‐induced injuries included rib fracture (38/154; 24.6%), pulmonary contusion (30/154; 19.4%), tracheal tear (18/154; 11.6%), pneumothorax (16/154; 10.3%), abdominal wall hernia (9/154; 5.8%), and abdominal penetrating wounds (8/146; 5.5%). Dogs <10 kg were significantly more likely to incur wounds to multiple body parts or sustain abdominal penetrating wounds. The presence of rib fracture was significantly associated with mortality. Frequency of coyote attacks over the time of this study increased by 330%.

Conclusions

Coyote attacks on dogs are a problem in Southern California and are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, especially in dogs with wounds to the thorax. Aggressive management involving surgical wound repair was associated with survival to discharge.
Experimental Investigations to Use Splash Lubrication for High-Speed Gears
Authors: Neurouth A. , Changenet C. , Ville F. , Octrue M. , Tinguy E.
Published: April 2017

In order to use electric motors which run up to 40,000 rpm in future automotive applications, this study aims to experimentally investigate if splash lubrication technique is worth considering for high-speed gears, i.e., for tangential gear speed up to 60 m/s. To this end, a specific test rig has been used to operate a single spur or helical gear in various operating conditions (lubricant, oil sump volume, temperature, etc.). Churning loss is measured and, as the fraction of air in the lubricant (namely, oil aeration) can be influential on this source of dissipation, a specific sensor is also employed for online monitoring of oil sump aeration. By inserting some moveable walls in the gearbox, it is demonstrated that churning losses and oil aeration can be significantly reduced by mounting these flanges at an appropriate distance to the gear lateral faces. Based on dimensional analysis, an engineering criterion is proposed to properly choose the clearance between the tested gear and the flanges.
Effective Dose Reduction in Lateral Lumbar Spine Diagnostic Radiography Using X-Ray Tube Heel Effect
Authors: Ben-Shlomo Avi , Bartal Gabriel , Mosseri Morris , Shabat Shay
Published: April 2017

The study aimed to determine how the effective dose (ED) in lumbar spine X-ray examinations is influenced by patient positioning considering the X-ray tube heel effect. The study used Monte Carlo simulation of the effective dose. Using the heel effect, positioning of the patient in the head to anode direction reduces the effective dose by 5% when compared with the head to cathode positioning.
Exact Eigensolutions for a Family of Nonuniform Rods With End Point Masses
Authors: Rubio Lourdes , Fernández-Sáez José , Morassi Antonino
Published: April 2017

In this paper, new exact closed-form solutions for free longitudinal vibration of a one-parameter countable family of cantilever rods with one end tip mass are obtained. The analysis is based on the reduction of the equation governing the longitudinal vibration to the Sturm–Liouville canonical form and on the use of double Darboux transformations. The rods for which exact eigensolutions are provided are explicitly determined in terms of an initial rod with known closed-form eigensolutions. The method can be also extended to include longitudinally vibrating rods with tip mass at both ends.
Generalized Spatial Aliasing Solution for the Dispersion Analysis of Infinitely Periodic Multilayered Composites Using the Finite Element Method
Authors: Tahidul Haque A. B. M. , Ghachi Ratiba F. , Alnahhal Wael I. , Aref Amjad , Shim Jongmin
Published: April 2017

The finite element (FE) method offers an efficient framework to investigate the evolution of phononic crystals which possess materials or geometric nonlinearity subject to external loading. Despite its superior efficiency, the FE method suffers from spectral distortions in the dispersion analysis of waves perpendicular to the layers in infinitely periodic multilayered composites. In this study, the analytical dispersion relation for sagittal elastic waves is reformulated in a substantially concise form, and it is employed to reproduce spatial aliasing-induced spectral distortions in FE dispersion relations. Furthermore, through an anti-aliasing condition and the effective elastic modulus theory, an FE modeling general guideline is provided to overcome the observed spectral distortions in FE dispersion relations of infinitely periodic multilayered composites, and its validity is also demonstrated.
An Efficient Algorithm of Wiener–Hopf Method With Graphics Processing Unit for Duct Acoustics
Authors: Jiang Hanbo , Hong Lau Alex Siu , Huang Xun
Published: April 2017

Acoustic liner optimization calls for very efficient simulation methods. A highly efficient and straightforward algorithm is proposed here for the Wiener–Hopf solver, which also takes advantage of the parallel processing capability of the emerging graphics processing unit (GPU) technology. The proposed algorithm adopts a simple concept that re-arranges the formulations of the Wiener–Hopf solver to appropriate matrix forms. This concept was often overlooked but is surprisingly succinct, which leads to a stunningly efficient computational performance. By examining the computational performance of two representative setups (lined duct and duct radiations), the current study shows the superior performance of the proposed algorithm, particularly with GPU. The much improved computational efficiency further suggests the potential of the proposed algorithm and the use of GPU for practical low-noise aircraft engine design and optimization.
Cyclotron motion of a charged particle with anisotropic mass
Authors: Ciftja Orion , Livingston Victoria , Thomas Elsa
Published: April 2017

The cyclotron motion of a charged particle subject to a uniform magnetic field is thoroughly described in many classical physics textbooks. Although the assumption of a particle with isotropic mass is taken for granted in classical physics, a key concept in condensed matter physics is that of particles with an effective anisotropic mass, such as electrons in the context of band structure studies of solids. Since some exposure to the concept of anisotropic mass is important within the framework of classical physics, here we consider the cyclotron motion of a charged particle with anisotropic mass in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. The exact solution of this problem exposes a broad audience of readers to concepts in condensed matter physics that are rarely mentioned within the framework of classical physics. Key ideas on the topic are illustrated in a pedagogical way by considering specific examples that show how an anisotropic mass modifies the cyclotron motion of a charged particle.
Determining the value of the fine-structure constant from a current balance: Getting acquainted with some upcoming changes to the SI
Authors: Davis Richard S.
Published: April 2017

The revised International System of Units (SI), expected to be approved late in 2018, has implications for physics pedagogy. The ampere definition, which dates from 1948, will be replaced by a definition that fixes the numerical value of the elementary charge e in coulombs. The kilogram definition, which dates from 1889, will be replaced by a definition that fixes the numerical value of the Planck constant h in joule seconds. Existing SI equations will be completely unaffected. However, there will be a largely negligible, but nevertheless necessary, change to published numerical factors relating SI electrical units to their corresponding units in the Gaussian and other CGS systems of units. The implications of the revised SI for electrical metrology are neatly illustrated by considering the interpretation of results obtained from a current balance in the present SI and in the revised SI.
Studying 3D collisions with smartphones
Authors: Pereira Vanda , Martín-Ramos Pablo , da Silva Pedro Pereira , Silva Manuela Ramos
Published: April 2017

This paper describes a conservation of momentum experiment using just smartphones and two beach balls, thus making the experimental study of this movement available to any classroom. For a more thorough analysis of the data, a computer can also be used. Experiments making use of smartphone sensors have been described before, contributing to an improved teaching of classical mechanics. In this experiment, we have made use of two smartphone cameras together with the VidAnalysis free app to track the position of two balls colliding in air during a projectile motion (Fig. 1).
Creating interactive physics simulations using the power of GeoGebra
Authors: Walsh Tom
Published: April 2017

I have long incorporated physics simulations in my physics teaching, and truly appreciate those who have made their simulations available to the public. I often would think of an idea for a simulation I would love to be able to use, but with no real programming background I did not know how I could make my own. That was the case until I discovered GeoGebra, which is an open source software offering “Dynamic Mathematics for Teaching and Learning.” GeoGebra is freely available for non-commercial users. It is powerful, easy to learn, and versatile. There are versions for Windows, Mac, and Linux, as well as tablet and phone versions. It can also be run directly from a Chrome browser.
Highlight: A new way to block the development of asthma from dust mites
Authors: Yaffe Michael B.
Published: April 2017

Targeting a transcription factor, generally considered to be “nondruggable,” may help to prevent asthma from developing.
A Novel Nonantibiotic Nitroglycerin-Based Catheter Lock Solution for Prevention of Intraluminal Central Venous Catheter Infections in Cancer Patients
Authors: Chaftari Anne-Marie , Hachem Ray , Szvalb Ariel , Taremi Mahnaz , Granwehr Bruno , Viola George Michael , Sapna Amin , Assaf Andrew , Numan Yazan , Shah Pankil , Gasitashvili Ketevan , Natividad Elizabeth , Jiang Ying , Slack Rebecca , Reitzel Ruth , Rosenblatt Joel , Mouhayar Elie , Raad Issam
Published: April 2017

For long-term central lines (CL), the lumen is the major source of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). The current standard of care for maintaining catheter patency includes flushing the CL with saline or heparin. Neither agent has any antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, heparin may enhance staphylococcal biofilm formation. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of a novel nonantibiotic catheter lock solution for the prevention of CLABSI. Between November 2015 and February 2016, we enrolled 60 patients with hematologic malignancies who had peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) to receive the study lock solution. The study lock consisted of 15 or 30 μg/ml of nitroglycerin in combination with 4% sodium citrate and 22% ethanol. Each lumen was locked for at least 2 h once daily prior to being flushed. After enrollment of 10 patients at the lower nitroglycerin dose without evidence of toxicity, the dose was escalated to the higher dose (30 μg/ml). There were no serious related adverse events or episodes of hypotension with lock administration. Two patients experienced mild transient adverse events (one headache and one rash) possibly related to the lock and that resolved without residual effect. The CLABSI rate was 0 on lock days versus 1.6/1,000 catheter days (CD) off lock prophylaxis, compared with a rate of 1.9/1,000 CD at the institution in the same patient population. In conclusion, the nitroglycerin-based lock prophylaxis is safe and well tolerated. It may prevent CLABSI when given daily to cancer patients. Large, prospective, randomized clinical trials are needed to validate these findings. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT02577718.)
Simulating Intestinal Transporter and Enzyme Activity in a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model for Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate
Authors: Moss Darren M. , Domanico Paul , Watkins Melynda , Park Seonghee , Randolph Ryan , Wring Steve , Rajoli Rajith Kumar Reddy , Hobson James , Rannard Steve , Siccardi Marco , Owen Andrew
Published: April 2017

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), a prodrug of tenofovir, has oral bioavailability (25%) limited by intestinal transport (P-glycoprotein), and intestinal degradation (carboxylesterase). However, the influence of luminal pancreatic enzymes is not fully understood. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling has utility for estimating drug exposure from
in vitro
data. This study aimed to develop a PBPK model that included luminal enzyme activity to inform dose reduction strategies. TDF and tenofovir stability in porcine pancrelipase concentrations was assessed (0, 0.48, 4.8, 48, and 480 U/ml of lipase; 1 mM TDF; 37°C; 0 to 30 min). Samples were analyzed using mass spectrometry. TDF stability and permeation data allowed calculation of absorption rates within a human PBPK model to predict plasma exposure following 6 days of once-daily dosing with 300 mg of TDF. Regional absorption of drug was simulated across gut segments. TDF was degraded by pancrelipase (half-lives of 0.07 and 0.62 h using 480 and 48 U/ml, respectively). Previously reported maximum concentration (
C
max
; 335 ng/ml), time to
C
max
(
T
max
; 2.4 h), area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC
0–24
; 3,045 ng · h/ml), and concentration at 24 h (
C
24
; 48.3 ng/ml) were all within a 0.5-fold difference from the simulated
C
max
(238 ng/ml),
T
max
(3 h), AUC
0–24
(3,036 ng · h/ml), and
C
24
(42.7 ng/ml). Simulated TDF absorption was higher in duodenum and jejunum than in ileum (p<0.05). These data support that TDF absorption is limited by the action of intestinal lipases. Our results suggest that bioavailability may be improved by protection of drug from intestinal transporters and enzymes, for example, by coadministration of enzyme-inhibiting agents or nanoformulation strategies.
In Vitro
Study of IS
Apl1
-Mediated Mobilization of the Colistin Resistance Gene
mcr-1
Authors: Poirel Laurent , Kieffer Nicolas , Nordmann Patrice
Published: April 2017

The plasmid-mediated
mcr-1
gene encodes a phosphoethanolamine transferase that confers resistance to polymyxins. The
mcr-1
gene is associated with insertion sequence IS
Apl1
(IS
30
family).
In vitro
mobilization assays demonstrated the functionality of the composite transposon structure IS
Apl1-mcr-1
-IS
Apl1
. Transposition generated a 2-bp duplication and occurred in AT-rich DNA regions. This is the first report demonstrating the mobility of the
mcr-1
gene by transposition.
Deciphering Heteroresistance to Colistin in a Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolate from Marseille, France
Authors: Bardet Lucie , Baron Sophie , Leangapichart Thongpan , Okdah Liliane , Diene Seydina M. , Rolain Jean-Marc
Published: April 2017

Here, we report the description of a colistin-heteroresistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolate fortuitously isolated from the stool sample of a patient with suspicion of tuberculosis in a public hospital of Marseille, France. In the colistin-resistant subpopulation, a mutation in the
mgrB
gene leading to a premature stop codon was found, and the hypermucoviscous phenotype was lost. Susceptibility to other antibiotics remained unchanged. To our knowledge, this is the first identification of such a colistin-heteroresistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolate in France.
Pharmacokinetics and Dialytic Clearance of Ceftazidime-Avibactam in a Critically Ill Patient on Continuous Venovenous Hemofiltration
Authors: Wenzler Eric , Bunnell Kristen L. , Bleasdale Susan C. , Benken Scott , Danziger Larry H. , Rodvold Keith A.
Published: April 2017

Ceftazidime-avibactam administered at 1.25 g every 8 h was used to treat multidrug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
bacteremia in a critically ill patient on continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH). Prefiltration plasma drug concentrations of ceftazidime and avibactam were measured at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h along with postfiltration and ultrafiltrate concentrations at h 2 and h 6. Plasma pharmacokinetic parameters of ceftazidime and avibactam, respectively, were as follows: maximum plasma concentration (
C
max
), 61.10 and 14.54 mg/liter; minimum plasma concentration (
C
min
), 31.96 and 8.45 mg/liter; half-life (
t
1/2
), 6.07 and 6.78 h; apparent volume of distribution at the steady state (
V
ss
), 27.23 and 30.81 liters; total clearance at the steady state (CL
ss
), 2.87 and 2.95 liters/h; area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 8 h (AUC
0–8
), 347.87 and 85.69 mg · h/liter. Concentrations of ceftazidime in plasma exceeded the ceftazidime-avibactam MIC (6 mg/liter) throughout the 8-h dosing interval. Mean CVVH extraction ratios for ceftazidime and avibactam were 14.44% and 11.53%, respectively, and mean sieving coefficients were 0.96 and 0.93, respectively. The calculated mean clearance of ceftazidime by CVVH was 1.64 liters/h and for avibactam was 1.59 liters/h, representing 57.1% of the total clearance of ceftazidime and 54.3% of the total clearance of avibactam. Further data that include multiple patients and dialysis modes are needed to verify the optimal ceftazidime-avibactam dosing strategy during critical illness and CVVH.
PhoU Allows Rapid Adaptation to High Phosphate Concentrations by Modulating PstSCAB Transport Rate in Sinorhizobium meliloti
Authors: diCenzo George C. , Sharthiya Harsh , Nanda Anish , Zamani Maryam , Finan Turlough M.
Published: April 2017

Maintenance of cellular phosphate homeostasis is essential for cellular life. The PhoU protein has emerged as a key regulator of this process in bacteria, and it is suggested to modulate phosphate import by PstSCAB and control activation of the phosphate limitation response by the PhoR-PhoB two-component system. However, a proper understanding of PhoU has remained elusive due to numerous complications of mutating
phoU
, including loss of viability and the genetic instability of the mutants. Here, we developed two sets of strains of
Sinorhizobium meliloti
that overcame these limitations and allowed a more detailed and comprehensive analysis of the biological and molecular activities of PhoU. The data showed that
phoU
cannot be deleted in the presence of phosphate unless PstSCAB is inactivated also. However,
phoU
deletions were readily recovered in phosphate-free media, and characterization of these mutants revealed that addition of phosphate to the environment resulted in toxic levels of PstSCAB-mediated phosphate accumulation. Phosphate uptake experiments indicated that PhoU significantly decreased the PstSCAB transport rate specifically in phosphate-replete cells but not in phosphate-starved cells and that PhoU could rapidly respond to elevated environmental phosphate concentrations and decrease the PstSCAB transport rate. Site-directed mutagenesis results suggested that the ability of PhoU to respond to phosphate levels was independent of the conformation of the PstSCAB transporter. Additionally, PhoU-PhoU and PhoU-PhoR interactions were detected using a bacterial two-hybrid screen. We propose that PhoU modulates PstSCAB and PhoR-PhoB in response to local, internal fluctuations in phosphate concentrations resulting from PstSCAB-mediated phosphate import.

IMPORTANCE
Correct maintenance of cellular phosphate homeostasis is critical in all kingdoms of life and in bacteria involves the PhoU protein. This work provides novel insights into the role of the
Sinorhizobium meliloti
PhoU protein, which plays a key role in rapid adaptation to elevated phosphate concentrations. It is shown that PhoU rapidly responds to elevated phosphate levels by significantly decreasing the phosphate transport of PstSCAB, thereby preventing phosphate toxicity and cell death. Additionally, a new model for phosphate sensing in bacterial species which involves the PhoR-PhoB two-component system is presented. This work provides new insights into the bacterial response to changing environmental conditions and into regulation of the phosphate limitation response that influences numerous bacterial processes, including antibiotic production and virulence.
Negative wealth shock and short-term changes in depressive symptoms and medication adherence among late middle-aged adults
Authors: Pool Lindsay R , Needham Belinda L , Burgard Sarah A , Elliott Michael R , de Leon Carlos F Mendes
Published: April 2017

Background

Experiencing a negative wealth shock in late middle age may cause high levels of stress and induce reductions in health-related consumption.

Methods

We used data on late middle age individuals (51–64 years) from the longitudinal US-based Health and Retirement Study (N=19 281) to examine the relationship between negative wealth shock and short-term outcomes that serve as markers of the pathways from wealth shock to health: elevated depressive symptoms, as a marker of the stress pathway and cost-related medication non-adherence (CRN), as a marker of the consumption pathway. Negative wealth shock was considered to be a loss of total net worth of 75% or more.

Results

Using a nested cross-over approach—a within-person design among exposed individuals only that adjusts by design for all time-invariant individual characteristics—we found that negative wealth shock was significantly associated with increased odds of elevated depressive symptoms (OR=1.50, CI 1.10 to 2.05), but was not significantly associated with higher odds of CRN (OR=1.18, CI 0.76 to 1.82), even after further adjustment for time-varying sociodemographic and health covariates.

Conclusions

Negative wealth shock during late middle age confers an increased risk of elevated depressive symptoms, but does not change levels of CRN. Personal and policy factors that may buffer the mental health risks of negative wealth shock, such as social support and social welfare policy, should be considered.
A computational study of Brownian and thermophoresis effects on nonlinear radiation in boundary-layer flow of Maxwell nanofluid initiated due to elongating cylinder
Authors: Majeed Abid , Javed Tariq , Ghaffari Abuzar
Published: April 2017

In this article, attention is paid to investigating the effects of nonlinear thermal radiations for Maxwell nanofluid flow, flowing due to elongating cylinder. For a better understanding of variations in heat transfer, nonlinear heat generation is also considered. The equations of flow, heat and mass transfer due to incorporation of nanoparticles, are modeled through Navier–Stokes, energy, and concentration equations. The reduced partial differential equations are transformed into dimensionless ordinary differential equations with the help of appropriate transformations. The reduced system of ordinary differential equations is simulated by means of efficient technique, namely, the shooting method. Significant difference in the heat transfer enhancement can be observed graphically through temperature profiles and Nusselt number. From the obtained results, finally it is concluded that nonlinear radiation provides better heat transfer rate at the surface of the cylinder as compared to linear or absence of radiation effects.
Fully relativistic atomic structure calculations for W XLIV for determination of plasma diagnostic terms
Authors: Goyal Arun , Sharma Rinku , Singh A.K. , Mohan Man
Published: April 2017

We report accurate calculations of W XLIV through application of multi-configuration Dirac–Fock wave functions. We have calculated the energies for the lowest 100 fine structure levels, transition wavelengths, radiative rates, oscillator strengths, and line strengths for electric (E1) and magnetic dipole (M1) transitions with the extended average level multi-configurational Dirac–Fock method in the General-Purpose Relativistic Atomic Structure Package (GRASP). We have taken into account the electron correlations, quantum electrodynamics (QED) and Breit corrections in our calculations. We have also performed parallel calculations with the flexible atomic code (FAC) to assess the accuracy of our calculations. This is a fully relativistic code that provides a variety of atomic parameters, and (generally) yields results for energy levels and radiative rates comparable to GRASP. Our calculated results match well with experimentally observed results that are obtained in ASDEX upgrade Tokamak. Additionally, we have also provided the line intensity ratios and electron density for W XLIV, which is useful and important in plasma diagnostics and modeling in future International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) experiments. We believe that our results would be beneficial in the areas of fusion plasma research and astrophysical investigations and applications.
Visual Circuits for Direction Selectivity
Authors: Mauss Alex S. , Vlasits Anna , Borst Alexander , Feller Marla
Published: April 2017

Images projected onto the retina of an animal eye are rarely still. Instead, they usually contain motion signals originating either from moving objects or from retinal slip caused by self-motion. Accordingly, motion signals tell the animal in which direction a predator, prey, or the animal itself is moving. At the neural level, visual motion detection has been proposed to extract directional information by a delay-and-compare mechanism, representing a classic example of neural computation. Neurons responding selectively to motion in one but not in the other direction have been identified in many systems, most prominently in the mammalian retina and the fly optic lobe. Technological advances have now allowed researchers to characterize these neurons’ upstream circuits in exquisite detail. Focusing on these upstream circuits, we review and compare recent progress in understanding the mechanisms that generate direction selectivity in the early visual system of mammals and flies.
Design of H2/H∞ RMPC for Boiler Superheated Steam Temperature Based on Memoryless Feedback Multistep Strategy
Authors: Han Pu , Liu Miao , Wang Dongfeng , Jia Hao
Published: April 2017

The collection of superheated steam temperature models of a thermal power plant under different loads can be approximated to “multimodel” linear uncertain systems. After transformation, the tracking system was obtained from “multimodel” linear uncertain systems. For this tracking uncertain system, a mixed H2/H∞ robust model predictive control (HRMPC) based on a memoryless feedback multistep strategy is proposed. A multistep control strategy combines the advantages of predictive control rolling optimization with memoryless feedback control thoughts. It could effectively decrease the controller optimization parameter and ensure closed‐loop system stability, and, at the same time, it also achieved acceptable control performance. Successful application to the superheated steam temperature system of a 300 MW thermal power plant verified the study of the HRMPC‐P cascade controller design scheme in terms of feasibility and effectiveness.
Experimental Study on Friction Sliding Performance of Rubber Bearings in Bridges
Authors: Li Yue , Wu Qiqi
Published: April 2017

To fully ascertain the ultimate shear failure state and the friction sliding performance of laminated rubber bearings in bridges, a series of cyclic loading tests were conducted. The energy dissipation characteristics of the laminated rubber bearings with two end plates, rubber bearings with unilateral friction sliding, and lead rubber bearing (LRB) under low-frequency cyclic loads were compared and analyzed. The results showed the following. (1) The ultimate shear deformation of the rubber bearings with two end plates could reach 300% to 400% of the rubber layer thickness. The energy dissipation capacity of the bearings was weak, and the hysteresis curves presented narrow zonal shapes. (2) The rubber bearings with unilateral friction sliding had similar energy dissipation capacities compared to the LRB. With the increase of the sliding distance, the dissipated energy continuously enlarged. The shear deformation of the bearing was no longer increased after reaching the maximum. After the test, the bearings remained in a good condition. The hysteresis curves of the load and displacement presented bilinear shapes. (3) Under the cyclic loading, the energy dissipation capacity of LRB was stable. The hysteresis curves of LRB were always fuller than the laminated rubber bearings.
Reinforcement Learning Based Novel Adaptive Learning Framework for Smart Grid Prediction
Authors: Li Tian , Li Yongqian , Li Baogang
Published: April 2017

Smart grid is a potential infrastructure to supply electricity demand for end users in a safe and reliable manner. With the rapid increase of the share of renewable energy and controllable loads in smart grid, the operation uncertainty of smart grid has increased briskly during recent years. The forecast is responsible for the safety and economic operation of the smart grid. However, most existing forecast methods cannot account for the smart grid due to the disabilities to adapt to the varying operational conditions. In this paper, reinforcement learning is firstly exploited to develop an online learning framework for the smart grid. With the capability of multitime scale resolution, wavelet neural network has been adopted in the online learning framework to yield reinforcement learning and wavelet neural network (RLWNN) based adaptive learning scheme. The simulations on two typical prediction problems in smart grid, including wind power prediction and load forecast, validate the effectiveness and the scalability of the proposed RLWNN based learning framework and algorithm.
A Cooperative Stochastic Differential Game of Transboundary Industrial Pollution between Two Asymmetric Nations
Authors: Yi Yongxi , Xu Rongwei , Zhang Sheng
Published: April 2017

Considering the fact that transboundary pollution control calls for the cooperation between interested parties, this paper studies a cooperative stochastic differential game of transboundary industrial pollution between two asymmetric nations in infinite‐horizon level. In this paper, we model two ways of transboundary pollution: one is an accumulative global pollutant with an uncertain evolutionary dynamic and the other is a regional nonaccumulative pollutant. In our model, firms and governments are separated entities and they play a Stackelberg game, while the governments of the two nations can cooperate in pollution reduction. We discuss the feedback Nash equilibrium strategies of governments and industrial firms, and it is found that the governments being cooperative in transboundary pollution control will set a higher pollution tax rate and make more pollution abatement effort than when they are noncooperative. Additionally, a payment distribution mechanism that supports the subgame consistent solution is proposed.
A Mesoscopic Simulation for the Early-Age Shrinkage Cracking Process of High Performance Concrete in Bridge Engineering
Authors: Li Guodong , Wang Zonglin
Published: April 2017

On a mesoscopic level, high performance concrete (HPC) was assumed to be a heterogeneous composite material consisting of aggregates, mortar, and pores. The concrete mesoscopic structure model had been established based on CT image reconstruction. By combining this model with continuum mechanics, damage mechanics, and fracture mechanics, a relatively complete system for concrete mesoscopic mechanics analysis was established to simulate the process of early-age shrinkage cracking in HPC. This process was based on the dispersion crack model. The results indicated that the interface between the aggregate and mortar was the crack point caused by shrinkage cracks in HPC. The locations of early-age shrinkage cracks in HPC were associated with the spacing and the size of the aggregate particle. However, the shrinkage deformation size of the mortar was related to the scope of concrete cracking and was independent of the crack position. Whereas lower water to cement ratios can improve the early strength of concrete, this ratio cannot control early-age shrinkage cracks in HPC.
Impact of the Choice of Land Surface Scheme on a Simulated Heatwave Event: The Case of Sichuan-Chongqing Area, China
Authors: Ma Y. , Zeng X.-M. , Zhang Y. , Wang N. , Zheng Y. , Wang G. , Chen C.
Published: April 2017

The Sichuan-Chongqing area in China has complex basin topography and is known for its extremely hot summer weather. In this paper, the mesoscale model WRF version 3.6.1 was used to simulate a period of 1–10 days in advance of the hot weather that occurred in Sichuan-Chongqing on August 10, 2006, to investigate the effect of six different land surface schemes (LSSs) (SLAB, RUC, PX, NOAH, NOAH_MP, and CLM4) on short- and medium-range simulations of high temperatures. The simulated surface air temperatures (SATs) are sensitive to the LSSs and simulation lengths. Specifically, all of the LSSs except PX generally reproduce the observed high temperatures, with CLM4 SATs at 06 UTC (SAT06) the most consistent with measurements whereas the short-range (medium-range) results from NOAH_MP (NOAH) are the worst. Detailed explanations were given in terms of surface fluxes and physical processes. RUC soil moisture initialization appears poor and the LSS reflects too strong gravity drainage. When the LSSs with increased numbers of soil layers are used, the simulated high temperatures are found more consistent with measurements. Additionally, regional sensible heat flux (SHF) does not show high consistency with SAT. The results that differ from the previous studies are partly due to the complex geography and the LSS deficiencies.
Chemotherapy-Resistant Human Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells Are Not Enriched for Leukemic Stem Cells but Require Oxidative Metabolism
Authors: Farge Thomas , Saland Estelle , de Toni Fabienne , Aroua Nesrine , Hosseini Mohsen , Perry Robin , Bosc Claudie , Sugita Mayumi , Stuani Lucille , Fraisse Marine , Scotland Sarah , Larrue Clément , Boutzen Héléna , Féliu Virginie , Nicolau-Travers Marie-Laure , Cassant-Sourdy Stéphanie , Broin Nicolas , David Marion , Serhan Nizar , Sarry Audrey , Tavitian Suzanne , Kaoma Tony , Vallar Laurent , Iacovoni Jason , Linares Laetitia K. , Montersino Camille , Castellano Rémy , Griessinger Emmanuel , Collette Yves , Duchamp Olivier , Barreira Yara , Hirsch Pierre , Palama Tony , Gales Lara , Delhommeau François , Garmy-Susini Barbara H. , Portais Jean-Charles , Vergez François , Selak Mary , Danet-Desnoyers Gwenn , Carroll Martin , Récher Christian , Sarry Jean-Emmanuel
Published: April 2017

Chemotherapy-resistant human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells are thought to be enriched in quiescent immature leukemic stem cells (LSC). To validate this hypothesis in vivo, we developed a clinically relevant chemotherapeutic approach treating patient-derived xenografts (PDX) with cytarabine (AraC). AraC residual AML cells are enriched in neither immature, quiescent cells nor LSCs. Strikingly, AraC-resistant preexisting and persisting cells displayed high levels of reactive oxygen species, showed increased mitochondrial mass, and retained active polarized mitochondria, consistent with a high oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) status. AraC residual cells exhibited increased fatty-acid oxidation, upregulated CD36 expression, and a high OXPHOS gene signature predictive for treatment response in PDX and patients with AML. High OXPHOS but not low OXPHOS human AML cell lines were chemoresistant in vivo. Targeting mitochondrial protein synthesis, electron transfer, or fatty-acid oxidation induced an energetic shift toward low OXPHOS and markedly enhanced antileukemic effects of AraC. Together, this study demonstrates that essential mitochondrial functions contribute to AraC resistance in AML and are a robust hallmark of AraC sensitivity and a promising therapeutic avenue to treat AML residual disease.

Significance: AraC-resistant AML cells exhibit metabolic features and gene signatures consistent with a high OXPHOS status. In these cells, targeting mitochondrial metabolism through the CD36–FAO–OXPHOS axis induces an energetic shift toward low OXPHOS and strongly enhanced antileukemic effects of AraC, offering a promising avenue to design new therapeutic strategies and fight AraC resistance in AML. Cancer Discov; 7(7); 716–35. ©2017 AACR.

See related commentary by Schimmer, p. 670.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 653
Cloning, Distribution, and Colocalization of MNAR/PELP1 with Glucocorticoid Receptors in Primate and Nonprimate Brain
Authors: Khan Mohammad M. , Hadman Martin , De Sevilla Liesl M. , Mahesh Virendra B. , Buccafusco Jerry , Hill William D. , Brann Darrell W.
Published: April 2017

MNAR/PELP1 (see text) is a newly identified scaffold protein/coactivator initially thought to modulate nongenomic and genomic actions of the estrogen receptor; however, it has been recently shown to interact with multiple steroid receptors, including androgen and glucocorticoid receptors. In the present study, we cloned the monkey MNAR/PELP1 gene, deduced its domain structure, examined its localization pattern and colocalization with glucocorticoid receptor in monkey brain, and determined its subcellular localization. PCR-based cloning of MNAR/PELP1 from monkey brain produced a transcript of ∼3.4 kb which showed high homology to the human and rat MNAR/PELP1 gene. Domain analysis showed that all the key steroid-receptor-interacting (LXXLL) domains, SH3-interacting (PXXP) domains and several C-terminal glutamic-acid-rich clusters, as well as various kinase domains are conserved in the monkey MNAR/PELP1 gene. Anatomical mapping of MNAR/PELP1 immunoreactivity in several regions of the monkey brain showed a similar pattern of MNAR/PELP1 distribution as previously observed in rat and mouse brains. MNAR/PELP1 also showed an absolute colocalization with glucocorticoid receptors in both primate and nonprimate brain, including those regions of the brain, where other steroid receptors are not significantly expressed, such as hippocampus, striatum, and thalamus – suggesting that MNAR/PELP1 may modulate glucocorticoid actions in the brain. Finally, ultrastructural electron microscopic studies showed that MNAR/PELP1-reactive gold particles are located within nucleus, cytoplasm, dendritic/synaptic terminals, and astrocytic processes. As a whole, the studies demonstrate that MNAR/PELP1 is expressed and colocalizes with glucocorticoid receptors in monkey and rat brains and may have multiple cellular functions based on its subcellular localizations.