bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cassava brown streak disease in Rwanda, the associated viruses and disease phenotypes
Authors: Munganyinka E. , Ateka E. M. , Kihurani A. W. , Kanyange M. C. , Tairo F. , Sseruwagi P. , Ndunguru J.
Published: September 2017

Cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) was first observed on cassava (Manihot esculenta) in Rwanda in 2009. In 2014 eight major cassava‐growing districts in the country were surveyed to determine the distribution and variability of symptom phenotypes associated with CBSD, and the genetic diversity of cassava brown streak viruses. Distribution of the CBSD symptom phenotypes and their combinations varied greatly between districts, cultivars and their associated viruses. The symptoms on leaf alone recorded the highest (32.2%) incidence, followed by roots (25.7%), leaf + stem (20.3%), leaf + root (10.4%), leaf + stem + root (5.2%), stem + root (3.7%), and stem (2.5%) symptoms. Analysis by RT‐PCR showed that single infections of Ugandan cassava brown streak virus (UCBSV) were most common (74.2% of total infections) and associated with all the seven phenotypes studied. Single infections of Cassava brown streak virus (CBSV) were predominant (15.3% of total infections) in CBSD‐affected plants showing symptoms on stems alone. Mixed infections (CBSV + UCBSV) comprised 10.5% of total infections and predominated in the combinations of leaf + stem + root phenotypes. Phylogenetic analysis and the estimates of evolutionary divergence, using partial sequences (210 nt) of the coat protein gene, revealed that in Rwanda there is one type of CBSV and an indication of diverse UCBSV. This study is the first to report the occurrence and distribution of both CBSV and UCBSV based on molecular techniques in Rwanda.
Uber Über regulation? Regulatory change following the emergence of new technologies in the taxi market
Authors: Tzur Amit
Published: September 2017

Can emerging technologies transform not only markets, but also foster new regulatory change mechanisms? In the context of prevailing theories of regulatory change, this article explores the extent to which an interest‐based explanation can account for the regulatory responses toward emerging Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). Based on a primary cross‐city analysis of the 40 largest cities in the United States, the study found that although the existence ofex anteinterest groups indeed somewhat limited the extent of ex post regulatory acceptance of TNCs, regulators seemed to prefer the newcomers over existing incumbents and approved TNCs in 77.5 percent of the examined cities, rarely pursuing harsh enforcement even when TNCs operated illegally. The research attempts to explain this intriguing phenomenon by extending the interest‐based approach to account for the key role played by “technological regulatory entrepreneurs.” The entrepreneurs bridged collective action barriers by becoming the central agent that managed, and reaped the benefits of, the collective action, by lowering the organizational costs and by disseminating information effectively and turning consumers into political campaigners, thus successfully promoting regulatory change.
Exhumed lateral margins and increasing flow confinement of a submarine landslide complex
Authors: Brooks Hannah L. , Hodgson David M. , Brunt Rufus L. , Peakall Jeff , Flint Stephen S.
Published: September 2017

Submarine landslides, including the basal shear surfaces along which they fail, and their subsequent infill, are commonly observed in modern seabed and seismic reflection data sets; their resultant relief impacts sediment routing and storage patterns on continental margins. Here, three stacked submarine landslides are documented from the Permian Ecca Group, Laingsburg depocentre, Karoo Basin, South Africa, including two superimposed lateral margins. The stratigraphic framework includes measured sections and correlated surfaces along a 3 km long, 150 m high outcrop. Two stacked 2·0 to 4·5 km wide and 90 m and 60 m deep erosion surfaces are recognized, with lateral gradients of 8° and 4°, respectively. The aim of this study was to understand the evolution of a submarine landslide complex, including: evolution of basal shear surfaces/zones; variation of infill confinement; and location of the submarine landslides in the context of basin‐scale sedimentation and degradation rates. Three stages of formation are identified: (i) failure of submarine landslide 1, with deposition of unconfined remobilized deposits; (ii) failure of submarine landslide 2, forming basal shear surface/zone 1, with infill of remobilized deposits and weakly confined turbidites; and (iii) failure of submarine landslide 3, forming basal shear surface/zone 2, with infill of remobilized deposits and confined turbidites, transitioning stratigraphically to unconfined deposits. The expression of basal shear varies laterally, from metres thick zones in silt‐rich strata to sharp stepped surfaces in sand‐rich strata. Faulting and rotation of overlying bedding suggest that the shear surfaces/zones were dynamic. Stacking of landslides resulted from multi‐phase slope failure, increasing down‐dip topography and confinement of infilling deposits. The failure slope was probably a low supply tilted basin margin evidenced by megaclast entrainment from underlying basin‐floor successions and the lack of channel systems. This study develops a generic model of landslide infill, as a function of sedimentation and degradation rates, which can be applied globally.
The End of the World as We Know It?: American Exceptionalism in an Age of Disruption
Authors: Torpey John
Published: September 2017

This essay explores the recent election of President Donald J. Trump against the background of the idea of American exceptionalism. It posits that there have been a variety of versions of the notion of exceptionalism, one of which involves the question, “Why is there no fascism in the United States?” It argues that Trump may render invalid the assumption behind that question and that at best during his tenure we are likely to have a continuation of the “bad exceptionalism” associated with the question, “Why is there no socialism in the United States?”
Phosphatidylinositol (4, 5)‐bisphosphate targets double C2 domain protein B to the plasma membrane
Authors: Michaeli Lirin , Gottfried Irit , Bykhovskaia Maria , Ashery Uri
Published: September 2017

Double C2 domain protein B (DOC2B) is a high‐affinity Ca2+ sensor that translocates from the cytosol to the plasma membrane (PM) and promotes vesicle priming and fusion. However, the molecular mechanism underlying its translocation and targeting to the PM in living cells is not completely understood. DOC2B interacts in vitro with the PM components phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol (4, 5)‐bisphosphate [PI(4, 5)P2] and target SNAREs (t‐SNAREs). Here, we show that PI(4, 5)P2 hydrolysis at the PM of living cells abolishes DOC2B translocation, whereas manipulations of t‐SNAREs and other phosphoinositides have no effect. Moreover, we were able to redirect DOC2B to intracellular membranes by synthesizing PI(4, 5)P2 in those membranes. Molecular dynamics simulations and mutagenesis in the calcium and PI(4, 5)P2‐binding sites strengthened our findings, demonstrating that both calcium and PI(4, 5)P2 are required for the DOC2B–PM association and revealing multiple PI(4, 5)P2–C2B interactions. In addition, we show that DOC2B translocation to the PM is ATP‐independent and occurs in a diffusion‐like manner. Our data suggest that the Ca2+‐triggered translocation of DOC2B is diffusion‐driven and aimed at PI(4, 5)P2‐containing membranes.
Zeroing in on red blood cell unit expiry
Authors: Ayyalil Fathima , Irwin Greg , Ross Bryony , Manolis Michael , Enjeti Anoop K.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Expiry of red blood cell (RBC) units is a significant contributor to wastage of precious voluntary donations. Effective strategies aimed at optimal resource utilization are required to minimize wastage.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed the strategic measures implemented to reduce expiry of RBC units in an Australian tertiary regional hospital. The measures, which included inventory rearrangement, effective stock rotation, and the number of emergency courier services required during a 24‐month period, were evaluated.

RESULTS

There was no wastage of RBC units due to expiry over the 12 months after policy changes. Before these changes, approximately half of RBC wastage (261/511) was due to expiry. The total number of transfusions remained constant in this period and there was no increase in the use of emergency couriers. Policy changes implemented were decreasing the RBC inventory level by one‐third and effective stock rotation and using a computerized system to link the transfusion services across the area. Effective stock rotation resulted in a reduction in older blood (>28 days) received in the main laboratory rotated from peripheral hospitals, down from 6%‐41% to 0%‐2.5%.

CONCLUSION

Age‐related expiry of blood products is preventable and can be significantly reduced by improving practices in the pathology service. This study provides proof of principle for “zero tolerance for RBC unit expiry” across a large networked blood banking service.
ACOUSTICAL STANDARDS NEWS
Authors: Stremmel Neil B. , Struck Christopher J.
Published: September 2017

American National Standards (ANSI Standards) developed by Accredited Standards Committees S1, S2, S3, S3/SC 1, and S12 in the areas of acoustics, mechanical vibration and shock, bioacoustics, animal bioacoustics, and noise, respectively, are published by the Acoustical Society of America (ASA). In addition to these standards, ASA publishes a catalog of Acoustical American National Standards. To receive a copy of the latest Standards catalog, please contact Neil Stremmel.

Comments are welcomed on all material in Acoustical Standards News.

This Acoustical Standards News section in JASA and other information on the Standards Program of the Acoustical Society of America are available via the ASA home page: http://acousticalsociety.org.
A fiery finish to Cassini's long run at Saturn
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: September 2017

Spacecraft's last orbits could improve understanding of the planet's rings and interior.
A legacy of discovery
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: September 2017

Highlights from Cassini's grand tour of Saturn.
China's childhood experiment
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: September 2017

A U.S. economist hopes to overcome an apocalyptic gap in childhood development between rural and urban China.
Angular momentum can slow down photoemission
Authors: Yakovlev Vladislav S. , Karpowicz Nicholas
Published: September 2017

Electrons with high angular momentum are the last to emerge from a solid
Refilling the coral reef glass
Authors: Obura David
Published: September 2017

Coral reefs around the world have suffered from 3 years of coral bleaching, following three decades of record high temperatures. It is now clear that coral reefs cannot survive, unchanged, under climate change. Their final state will depend not only on societal conviction to restore coral health but also on the ability to sustain investments and action that support this commitment.
Draft Genome Sequence of Listeria monocytogenes Strain ATCC 7644
Authors: Duceppe Marc-Olivier , Carrillo Catherine , Huang Hongsheng
Published: September 2017

Listeria monocytogenes
is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacterium which is an important foodborne bacterial pathogen for humans worldwide with high mortality rates. Here, we report a 2,964,284-bp draft genome sequence of
Listeria monocytogenes
strain ATCC 7644 (American Type Culture Collection).
Structurally Guided Removal of DeISGylase Biochemical Activity from Papain-Like Protease Originating from Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus
Authors: Daczkowski Courtney M. , Goodwin Octavia Y. , Dzimianski John V. , Farhat Jonathan J. , Pegan Scott D.
Published: September 2017

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is an emerging human pathogen that is the causative agent for Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). With MERS outbreaks resulting in over 35% fatalities and now spread to 27 countries, MERS-CoV poses a significant ongoing threat to global human health. As part of its viral genome, MERS-CoV encodes a papain-like protease (PLpro) that has been observed to act as a deubiquitinase and deISGylase to antagonize type I interferon (IFN-I) immune pathways. This activity is in addition to its viral polypeptide cleavage function. Although the overall impact of MERS-CoV PLpro function is observed to be essential, difficulty has been encountered in delineating the importance of its separate functions, particularly its deISGylase activity. As a result, the interface of MERS-CoV and human interferon-stimulated gene product 15 (hISG15) was probed with isothermal calorimetry, which suggests that the C-terminal domain of hISG15 is principally responsible for interactions. Subsequently, the structure of MERS-CoV PLpro was solved to 2.4 Å in complex with the C-terminal domain of hISG15. Utilizing this structural information, mutants were generated that lacked appreciable deISGylase activity but retained wild-type deubiquitinase and peptide cleavage activities. Hence, this provides a new platform for understanding viral deISGylase activity within MERS-CoV and other CoVs.

IMPORTANCE
Coronaviruses, such as Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), encode a papain-like protease (PLpro) that possesses the ability to antagonize interferon immune pathways through the removal of ubiquitin and interferon-stimulated gene product 15 (ISG15) from target proteins. The lack of CoV proteases with attenuated deISGylase activity has been a key obstacle in delineating the impact between deubiquitinase and deISGylase activities on viral host evasion and pathogenesis. Here, biophysical techniques revealed that MERS-CoV PLpro chiefly engages human ISG15 through its C-terminal domain. The first structure of MERS-CoV PLpro in complex with this domain exposed the interface between these two entities. Employing these structural insights, mutations were employed to selectively remove deISGylase activity with no appreciable impact on its other deubiquitinase and peptide cleavage biochemical properties. Excitingly, this study introduces a new tool to probe the pathogenesis of MERS-CoV and related viruses through the removal of viral deISGylase activity.
Vaccination with Recombinant Parainfluenza Virus 5 Expressing Neuraminidase Protects against Homologous and Heterologous Influenza Virus Challenge
Authors: Mooney Alaina J. , Gabbard Jon D. , Li Zhuo , Dlugolenski Daniel A. , Johnson Scott K. , Tripp Ralph A. , He Biao , Tompkins S. Mark
Published: September 2017

Seasonal human influenza virus continues to cause morbidity and mortality annually, and highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses along with other emerging influenza viruses continue to pose pandemic threats. Vaccination is considered the most effective measure for controlling influenza; however, current strategies rely on a precise vaccine match with currently circulating virus strains for efficacy, requiring constant surveillance and regular development of matched vaccines. Current vaccines focus on eliciting specific antibody responses against the hemagglutinin (HA) surface glycoprotein; however, the diversity of HAs across species and antigenic drift of circulating strains enable the evasion of virus-inhibiting antibody responses, resulting in vaccine failure. The neuraminidase (NA) surface glycoprotein, while diverse, has a conserved enzymatic site and presents an appealing target for priming broadly effective antibody responses. Here we show that vaccination with parainfluenza virus 5 (PIV5), a promising live viral vector expressing NA from avian (H5N1) or pandemic (H1N1) influenza virus, elicited NA-specific antibody and T cell responses, which conferred protection against homologous and heterologous influenza virus challenges. Vaccination with PIV5-N1 NA provided cross-protection against challenge with a heterosubtypic (H3N2) virus. Experiments using antibody transfer indicate that antibodies to NA have an important role in protection. These findings indicate that PIV5 expressing NA may be effective as a broadly protective vaccine against seasonal influenza and emerging pandemic threats.

IMPORTANCESeasonal influenza viruses cause considerable morbidity and mortality annually, while emerging viruses pose potential pandemic threats. Currently licensed influenza virus vaccines rely on the antigenic match of hemagglutinin (HA) for vaccine strain selection, and most vaccines rely on HA inhibition titers to determine efficacy, despite the growing awareness of the contribution of neuraminidase (NA) to influenza virus vaccine efficacy. Although NA is immunologically subdominant to HA, and clinical studies have shown variable NA responses to vaccination, in this study, we show that vaccination with a parainfluenza virus 5 recombinant vaccine candidate expressing NA (PIV5-NA) from a pandemic influenza (pdmH1N1) virus or highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) virus elicits robust, cross-reactive protection from influenza virus infection in two animal models. New vaccination strategies incorporating NA, including PIV5-NA, could improve seasonal influenza virus vaccine efficacy and provide protection against emerging influenza viruses.
An airway traffic jam: a plastic traffic cone masquerading as bronchial carcinoma
Authors: Denny Nicholas , Maqsood Usman , Fowler Stephen , Munavvar Mohammed
Published: September 2017

Tracheobronchial foreign body (TFB) aspiration is a common occurrence in children compared with adults. Long-standing cases of TFB aspiration during childhood presenting in an adult have rarely been reported. We report the unique case of an endobronchial Playmobil traffic cone that went undetected for 40 years and presented as a suspected bronchogenic carcinoma. This was subsequently removed successfully with flexible bronchoscopy. To our knowledge this is the first case of a TFB that was overlooked this length of time.
Preparation and characterization of polyaniline–cadmium sulfide nanocomposite for gas sensor application
Authors: Al-Jawad Selma M. H. , Rafic Sewench N. , Muhsen Mustafa M.
Published: September 2017

Polyaniline (PANI) was prepared by chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline monomers as emeraldine salt form. By the same method, polyaniline–cadmium sulfide nanocomposites were synthesized in the presence of different percentages (10–50 wt.%) of cadmium sulfide (CdS) which was prepared by using sol–gel method. The optical band gap was decrease with increasing of CdS concentration, that is obtained from UV-VIS measurements. From SEM and AFM, there is uniform distribution for cadmium sulfide nanoparticles in the PANI matrix. The electrical measurements of nanocomposites exhibit the effect of crystallite size and the high resistivity of CdS on the resistivity of nanocomposites. Emeraldine salt PANI, CdS and PANI–CdS nanocomposites were investigated as gas sensors. From this investigation, the sensitivity of PANI–CdS for NO2 gas increase with the increasing of operation temperature and the optimum sensitivity was obtained at 200[Formula: see text]C. The sensitivity of nanocomposites at best temperature (200[Formula: see text]C) was increased and faster response time with the increasing of CdS contents.
Enhancement of durability of NIR emission of Ag2S@ZnS QDs in water
Authors: Karimipour M. , Bagheri M. , Molaei M.
Published: September 2017

Stability of Ag2S@ZnS QDs in water is a crucial concern for their application in biology. In this work, both physical sustainability and emission stability of Ag2S QDs were enhanced using parameter optimization of a pulsed microwave irradiation (MI) method up to 105 days after their preparation. UV–Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopies depicted an absorption and emission about 817 nm and 878 nm, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed a growth of Ag2S acanthite phase. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images revealed a clear formation of Ag2S@ZnS core–shell structure.
Linking Human Capital and Organisational Innovative Capabilities of Financial Institutions: Evidence from a Developing Country of South Asia
Authors: Ayub Umer , Kausar Abdul Rashid , Qadri Mubashar Majeed
Published: September 2017

Organisational collective knowledge plays an important role in innovation and also provides a competitive advantage. Human Capital (HC) is the sum total of intelligence found in individual human beings and consists of individual’s learning and education, experience and expertise, and personal creativity and innovation. Researchers believed that only innovative organisations are going to survive in future in the knowledge-economy. The present research is aimed to study the impact of HC on Innovative Capability (IC) of a financial institution. This impact is empirically tested through a cross-sectional survey in which randomly selected 170 participants of a commercial bank verified the four proposed hypotheses. The findings endorsed four aspects of the study. First, HC was influenced by bank officers’ skills/competence, knowledge, abilities, personal mastery and their transformational leadership role. Second, IC of the bank has been found influenced by support for innovation available to bank officers, bank officers’ innovative behaviour, and tolerance for difference available to them. Third, the bank officers’ leadership role, personal mastery, and their abilities were significant and positively related to bank’s IC, whereas, bank officers’ knowledge was significant but negatively related to bank’s IC. Finally, the fourth finding of the study suggested that bank’s collective HC is having a positive relationship with bank’s IC. The study would help managers to identify important HC elements suitable for financial organisations that could have an impact on its IC.
Development of Optimal Nanocrystalline Absorption Layer for Thin Film Silicon Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Álvarez-Macías C. , Escobar-Carrasquilla J. D. , Dutt A. , Mon-Pérez E. , González L. , Santana G.
Published: September 2017

To obtain an optimum absorption layer based on hydrogenated polymorphous and nanocrystalline silicon thin films in a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition, radio frequency (RF) power was varied from 25[Formula: see text]W to 100[Formula: see text]W using a mixture of dichlorosilane and hydrogen. By Raman spectroscopy, the crystalline fraction was found to be varied from 7% to 69%, and RF power value of 75[Formula: see text]W was found to be suitable with an appropriate mixture of amorphous and crystalline phases, respectively. Thickness measurements performed by profilometry were cross-checked with the value obtained from the cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy micrographs. Micrographs obtained using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of silicon nanocrystals in the range of 2–5[Formula: see text]nm with a strong probability of confinement effect. B and gap value of 1.55[Formula: see text]eV at 75[Formula: see text]W upheld the suitability of this particular RF power for active absorption layer, which has also shown maximum photosensitivity.
Enterprise Architecture: A Literature Review
Authors: Gorkhali Anjee , Xu Li Da
Published: September 2017

Enterprise Architecture (EA) is principles, methods and models that are used in the design and realization of an enterprise’s organizational structure, business processes, information systems and IT infrastructure. There has been a steady growth in the number of research conducted in this field, however there is a need to consolidate the focus of the research in this field. This paper conducts an extensive review on 177 journal publications in the field of EA from 1974 to 2016 available in Science Citation Index (SCI) and Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) database. The aim of this paper is to present scholars and practitioners with a detailed overview on the available research in the field of EA. The selected papers have been grouped into 27 categories. The contents of papers in each category are summarized and future research direction for each categories are outlined. This overview indicates that the research in EA that has spanned from late 90’s till date, requires more concentrated effort in terms of developing new methodologies and framework to integrate enterprise applications that are the need of today’s growing business that venture into new technologies like SOA, frameworks, modeling and healthcare.
Evolutionary Rescue
Authors: Bell Graham
Published: September 2017

Populations that experience severe stress may avoid extinction through adaptation by natural selection. This process is called evolutionary rescue and has been studied under different names in medicine, agriculture, and conservation biology. It is a component of the emerging field of eco-evolutionary dynamics, which investigates how the ecological attributes of species may evolve rapidly under strong selection. Its distinguishing feature is to combine the evolutionary concept of relative fitness with the ecological concept of absolute fitness in a synthetic theory of persistent adaptation. The likelihood of rescue will depend both on attributes of the population, particularly abundance and variation, and on properties of the environment, particularly the rate and severity of deterioration. Medical interventions (e.g., the administration of antibiotics), agricultural practices (e.g., the application of pesticides), and population ecology (e.g., the effects of species introductions) provide numerous examples of evolutionary rescue. The general theory of rescue has been tested in laboratory experiments with microbes, in which experimental evolution shows how different treatments affect the frequency of rescue. Overall, these experiments have supported the predictions of general theory: In particular, abundance, variation, and dispersal have pronounced and repeatable effects on the rescue of populations and communities. Extending these laboratory results to the field is a major task for future research.
Creolization in Context: Historical and Typological Perspectives
Authors: Kouwenberg Silvia , Singler John Victor
Published: September 2017

We provide a selective overview of the state of pidgin and creole language studies, with a focus on the different ways in which the question of creole genesis—especially of European-lexifier creoles—is approached: from the perspective of the demographics and periodization of the (early) life of the colonies and from the perspective of the role of typological concepts such as analyticity/syntheticity and simplicity/complexity in the mechanisms of creolization and their linguistic outcomes. We conclude that substrate speakers are most likely to have an impact on the grammar of a creole language if they are among the first to shift to the incipient contact variety, and we find that processes of early second language acquisition and of functional transfer in creolization favor free rather than bound expression of grammatical categories.
Daily resistance-type exercise stimulates muscle protein synthesis in vivo in young men
Authors: Holwerda Andrew M. , Paulussen Kevin J. M. , Overkamp Maarten , Smeets Joey S. J. , Gijsen Annemie P. , Goessens Joy P. B. , Verdijk Lex B. , van Loon Luc J. C.
Published: September 2017

Resistance-type exercise increases muscle protein synthesis rates during acute postexercise recovery. The impact of resistance-type exercise training on (local) muscle protein synthesis rates under free-living conditions on a day-to-day basis remains unclear. We determined the impact of daily unilateral resistance-type exercise on local myofibrillar protein synthesis rates during a 3-day period. Twelve healthy young men (22 ± 1 yr) were recruited to participate in this study where they performed daily, unilateral resistance-type exercise during a 3-day intervention period. Two days before the exercise training subjects ingested 400 ml deuterated water (2H2O). Additional 50-ml doses of deuterated water were ingested daily during the training period. Saliva and blood samples were collected daily to assess body water and amino acid precursor deuterium enrichments, respectively. Muscle tissue biopsies were collected before and after the 3 days of unilateral resistance-type exercise training from both the exercised and the nonexercised, control leg for the assessment of muscle protein synthesis rates. Deuterated water dosing resulted in a steady-state body water enrichment of 0.70 ± 0.03%. Intramuscular free [2H]alanine enrichment increased up to 1.84 ± 0.06 mole percent excess (MPE) before the exercise training and did not change in both the exercised and control leg during the 3 subsequent exercise training days (2.11 ± 0.11 and 2.19 ± 0.12 MPE, respectively; P > 0.05). Muscle protein synthesis rates averaged 1.984 ± 0.118 and 1.642 ± 0.089%/day in the exercised vs. nonexercised, control leg when assessed over the entire 3-day period ( P < 0.05). Daily resistance-type exercise stimulates (local) muscle protein synthesis in vivo in humans.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study demonstrates that daily resistance-type exercise stimulates muscle protein synthesis rates in vivo in humans over multiple days. Whereas acute studies have shown that resistance-type exercise increases muscle protein synthesis rates by 50–100%, we observed a lower impact of resistance-type exercise under free-living conditions. We also compared precursor tracer selection for the calculation of muscle protein synthesis rates and observed that saliva deuterium enrichment serves as an appropriate and practical choice of precursor.
miR-130a Deregulates PTEN and Stimulates Tumor Growth
Authors: Wei Huijun , Cui Ri , Bahr Julian , Zanesi Nicola , Luo Zhenghua , Meng Wei , Liang Guang , Croce Carlo M.
Published: September 2017

H-RasV12 oncogene has been shown to promote autophagic cell death. Here, we provide evidence of a contextual role for H-RasV12 in cell death that is varied by its effects on miR-130a. In E1A-immortalized murine embryo fibroblasts, acute expression of H-RasV12 promoted apoptosis, but not autophagic cell death. miRNA screens in this system showed that miR-130a was strongly downregulated by H-RasV12 in this model system. Enforced expression of miR-130a increased cell proliferation in part via repression of PTEN. Consistent with this effect, miR-130a overexpression in human breast cancer cells promoted Akt phosphorylation, cell survival, and tumor growth. In clinical specimens of multiple human cancers, expression of miR-130 family members correlated inversely with PTEN expression. Overall, our results defined miR-130a as an oncogenic miRNA that targets PTEN to drive malignant cell survival and tumor growth. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6168–78. ©2017 AACR.
Peripheral Endothelial Function and Coronary Flow Velocity Reserve Are Not Associated in Women with Angina and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease: The iPOWER Study
Authors: Flintholm Raft Kristoffer , Frestad Daria , Michelsen Marie Mide , Suhrs Hannah Elena , Rask Anna Bay , Nilsson Malin , Hermann Thomas Steffen , Prescott Eva
Published: September 2017

Purpose: We investigated whether impaired flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and plasma biomarkers reflecting endothelial dysfunction are associated with coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) in women with angina and no obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: Patients (n = 194) were randomly selected women with angina pectoris and no obstructive CAD (<50% stenosis). A reference population of asymptomatic women without CAD (n = 25) was included. We measured FMD in the brachial artery by high-resolution ultrasound. Coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) was assessed by transthoracic Doppler flow echocardiography (TTDE) of the left anterior descending artery during rest and high-dose dipyridamole infusion. CMD was defined as CFVR <2. Results: FMD and CFVR were measured in 128 patients and 21 controls. Mean (SD) age was 64.5 (8.9) years, mean CFVR was 2.3 (2.0-2.7), and mean FMD was 8.4% (4.8%) in angina patients. Angina patients had a higher risk factor burden compared with the reference population. Measures of peripheral endothelial dysfunction and endothelial plasma biomarkers did not differ according to angina or CFVR. CFVR and FMD did not correlate (Spearman ρ = -0.07, p = 0.45). Conclusions: FMD and biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction did not identify individuals with CMD assessed as impaired CFVR by TTDE in women with angina and no obstructive CAD.
First Trimester Vaginal Ureaplasma Biovar Colonization and Preterm Birth: Results of a Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Rittenschober-Böhm Judith , Waldhoer Thomas , Schulz Stefan M. , Stihsen Birgit , Pimpel Birgit , Goeral Katharina , Hafner Erich , Sliutz Gerhard , Kasper David C. , Witt Armin , Berger Angelika
Published: September 2017

Background: While there is a proven association of upper genital tract Ureaplasma infection during pregnancy with adverse pregnancy outcome, the effect of vaginal Ureaplasma colonization on preterm delivery has been controversially debated. Objectives: We hypothesized that women with isolation of vaginal U. parvum but not U. urealyticum are at increased risk for spontaneous preterm birth (SPB) compared to women with negative results. Methods: A vaginal swab taken between 12 and 14 weeks of gestation was analyzed for the presence of Ureaplasma biovars by PCR in 4,330 pregnant women. Results: Of the study cohort, 37% were positive for U. parvum, 5.9% for U. urealyticum, and 3.1% for both. The rates of SPB were 10.4% (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.3, 2.2, p < 0.001) and 8.9% (OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.9, 2.3, p = 0.193) in the groups with isolation of U. parvum and U. urealyticum, respectively, compared to 6.4% in the group with negative PCR results. Multiple logistic regression and interaction analyses showed that vaginal colonization with U. parvum but not U. urealyticum was a statistically significant risk factor for SPB (adjusted OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2, 2.1, p < 0.001), independent of other risk factors such as bacterial vaginosis and history of SPB. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates a statistically significant and independent association between first-trimester vaginal colonization with U. parvum and subsequent SPB.
Elevated Apoptosis in the Liver of Dairy Cows with Ketosis
Authors: Du Xiliang , Chen Liang , Huang Dan , Peng Zhicheng , Zhao Chenxu , Zhang Yuming , Zhu Yiwei , Wang Zhe , Li Xinwei , Liu Guowen
Published: September 2017

Background/Aims: Dairy cows with ketosis are characterized by oxidative stress and hepatic damage. The aim of this study was to investigate hepatic oxidative stress and the apoptotic status of ketotic cows, as well as the underlying apoptosis pathway. Methods: The blood aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activities and the haptoglobin (HP), serum amyloid A (SAA) and serum apoptotic cytokeratin 18 neo-epitope M30 (CK18 M30) concentrations were determined by commercially available kits and ELISA kits, respectively. Liver histology, TUNEL and Oil red O staining were performed in liver tissue samples. TG contents were measured using an enzymatic kit; Caspase 3 assays were carried out using the Caspase 3 activity assay kit; oxidation and antioxidant markers were measured using biochemical kits; apoptosis pathway were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot. Results: Ketotic cows displayed hepatic fat accumulation. The hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) content was significantly increased, but the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were markedly decreased in ketotic cows compared with control cows, indicating that ketotic cows displayed severe oxidative stress. Significantly higher serum levels of the hepatic damage markers AST, ALT, GGT and GLDH were observed in ketotic cows than in control cows. The blood concentration of the apoptotic marker CK18 M30 and the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the liver of ketotic cows were 1.19- and 2.61-fold, respectively, higher than the values observed in control cows. Besides, Caspase 3 activity was significantly increased in the liver of ketosis cows. Importantly, the levels of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) were significantly increased but the level of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2) was markedly decreased, which further promoted tumor protein 53 (p53) expression and inhibited nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression. The apoptosis-related molecules p21, MDM2, Caspase 3, Caspase 9 and Bax were expressed at significantly higher levels in ketotic cows than in healthy cows, whereas the anti-apoptosis molecule Bcl-2 was expressed at significantly lower levels. Conclusions: Based on these results, ketotic cows display severe hepatic oxidative stress. The hepatic MAPK-p53-Nrf2 apoptotic pathway is over induced and partially mediated apoptotic damage in the liver.
Association of Serum Amyloid A with Kidney Outcomes and All-Cause Mortality in American Indians with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Saulnier Pierre-Jean , Dieter Brad P. , Tanamas Stephanie K. , McPherson Sterling M. , Wheelock Kevin M. , Knowler William C. , Looker Helen C. , Meek Rick L. , Nelson Robert G. , Tuttle Katherine R.
Published: September 2017

Background: Serum amyloid A (SAA) induces inflammation and apoptosis in kidney cells and is found to be causing the pathologic changes that are associated with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Higher serum SAA concentrations were previously associated with increased risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and death in persons with type 2 diabetes and advanced DKD. We explored the prognostic value of SAA in American Indians with type 2 diabetes without DKD or with early DKD. Methods: SAA concentration was measured in serum samples obtained at the start of follow-up. Multivariate proportional hazards models were employed to examine the magnitude of the risk of ESRD or death across tertiles of SAA concentration after adjustment for traditional risk factors. The C statistic was used to assess the additional predictive value of SAA relative to traditional risk factors. Results: Of 256 participants (mean ± SD glomerular filtration rate [iothalamate] = 148 ± 45 mL/min, and median [interquartile range] urine albumin/creatinine = 39 [14-221] mg/g), 76 developed ESRD and 125 died during a median follow-up period of 15.2 and 15.7 years, respectively. After multivariable proportional hazards regression, participants in the 2 highest SAA tertiles together exhibited a 53% lower risk of ESRD (hazard ratio [HR] 0.47, 95% CI 0.29-0.78), and a 30% lower risk of death (HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.48-1.02), compared with participants in the lowest SAA tertile, although the lower risk of death was not statistically significant. Addition of SAA to the ESRD model increased the C statistic from 0.814 to 0.815 (p = 0.005). Conclusions: Higher circulating SAA concentration is associated with a reduced risk of ESRD in American Indians with type 2 diabetes.
Perivascular Perfusion on Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) Is Associated with Inflammation in Patients with Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Kaspar Mathias , Imfeld Stephan , Partovi Sasan , Aschwanden Markus , Baldi Thomas , Dikkes Alexander , Vogt Deborah , Tsakiris Dimitrios , Staub Daniel
Published: September 2017

Background Inflammatory processes of the venous wall in acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) play a role in thrombus formation and resolution. However, direct evaluation of the perivascular inflammation is currently not feasible.

Objective To assess perivascular perfusion in acute proximal DVT using contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) reflecting perivenous inflammation and its association with systemic inflammatory markers in a single-centre, prospective observational study.

Patients/Methods Twenty patients with proximal DVT underwent CEUS imaging in the thrombosed and contralateral popliteal vein at baseline and after 2 weeks and 3 months. Perfusion was quantified by measuring peak enhancement (PE) and wash-in rate (WiR) in a perivenous region after bolus injection of the contrast agent. High-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined at the time of each CEUS imaging.

Results PE and WiR were significantly higher in the thrombosed compared with the unaffected leg at baseline (1,007 vs. 34 au and 103 vs. 4 au/s) and 2-week follow-up (903 vs. 35 au and 70 vs. 4 au/s). Compared with baseline, PE and WiR in the thrombosed leg significantly decreased to 217 au and 18 au/s at 3-month follow-up.

At baseline, hsCRP and IL-6 were elevated at 20.1 mg/mL and 8.2 pg/mL and decreased significantly to 2.8 mg/mL and 2.6 pg/mL at 2-week follow-up, remaining low after 3 months. There was a weak association between the level of inflammatory markers and the CEUS parameters at baseline on the thrombosed leg.

Conclusion Elevated perivascular perfusion assessed by CEUS imaging is associated with the inflammatory response in acute DVT.
Spinal Arteriolosclerosis Is Common in Older Adults and Associated With Parkinsonism
Authors: Buchman Aron S. , Leurgans Sue E. , Nag Sukriti , VanderHorst Veronique G.J.M. , Kapasi Alifiya , Schneider Julie A. , Bennett David A.
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose—

There are few studies of spinal microvascular pathologies in older adults. We characterized spinal cord microvascular pathologies and examined their associations with other spinal and brain postmortem indices and parkinsonism in older adults.

Methods—

We documented 3 features of microvascular pathologies in spinal cord and brain specimens from 165 deceased older participants. We also measured spinal white matter pallor. Parkinsonian signs were assessed with a modified version of the motor section of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale. We examined the associations of spinal arteriolosclerosis with other spinal and brain postmortem indices and parkinsonism proximate to death using regression models which controlled for age and sex.

Results—

Microinfarcts and cerebral amyloid angiopathy were not observed within the spinal cord parenchyma. Spinal arteriolosclerosis was observed at all spinal levels (C7, T7, L4, S4) examined and was more severe posteriorly than anteriorly (posterior: 4.3, SD=0.72 versus anterior: 3.9, SD=0.74;
t
=14.58;
P
<0.001). Arteriolosclerosis was more severe in the spinal cord than in the brain (cord: 4.10, SD=0.70; brain: 3.5, SD=0.98;
t
=10.39;
P
<0.001). The severity of spinal arteriolosclerosis was associated with spinal white matter pallor (
r
=0.47;
P
<0.001). Spinal arteriolosclerosis accounted for ≈3% of the variation in parkinsonism in models controlling for age, sex, brain arteriolosclerosis, and cerebrovascular disease pathologies. Further models showed that the association of spinal arteriolosclerosis and parkinsonism was not mediated via spinal white matter pallor.

Conclusions—

Although the regional distribution of microvascular pathologies varies within the central nervous system, spinal arteriolosclerosis is common and may contribute to the severity of spinal white matter pallor and parkinsonism in older adults.
Sharing and Preserving the Resources in the Deep Sea: Challenges for the International Seabed Authority
Authors: Lodge Michael W. , Segerson Kathleen , Squires Dale
Published: September 2017

The development of mineral resources in the deep sea can potentially generate significant economic returns, but also raises governance challenges. The International Seabed Authority (isa) wrestles with a wide range of issues and complex interactions that may affect not only how the industry develops over time, but also how development will benefit mankind. Two key issues they face are the means for sharing the payments from deep sea mining (dsm), and protecting environmental resources in the deep sea from harmful effects. This article provides an overview of issues for deciding among alternative means of distributing the isa’s share of monetary returns that will be realized as deep sea mineral resources, how they are converted from natural assets into financial assets, and alternative approaches to ensure that exploitation of these resources does not come at the expense of mankind also benefiting from the environmental resources provided by the deep sea.
A new species of Suphisellus Crotch from Mexico (Coleoptera: Noteridae)
Authors: ARCE-PÉREZ ROBERTO , BACA STEPHEN M.
Published: September 2017

Suphisellus epleri sp. nov. is described from Veracruz, Mexico. The new species is characterized by (1) size; (2) elytra brownish-red, moderately punctate, each with three light-yellow spots; and (3) aedeagus with median lobe curved with width nearly uniform along its length. In appearance, S. epleri is very similar to S. neglectus Young 1979 with which it is here compared based on specimens collected from Colombia and Venezuela. Suphisellus epleri is distinguished by having a slightly broader anterior extremity of prosternal process and a slender median lobe that is not distinctly expanded at apex, as in S. neglectus. The first record of S. neglectus in Venezuela is also reported. Descriptions, images and illustrations of diagnostic characters, and differential diagnosis of S. epleri are provided.
Dryinidae and Embolemidae (Hymenoptera, Chrysidoidea) from Anijima, Ogasawara Islands, Japan
Authors: MITA TOSHIHARU , NAGANO HIROSHI , OLMI MASSIMO
Published: September 2017

The fauna of Dryinidae and Embolemidae from Anijima in Ogasawara Islands, Japan is surveyed. Five species of Dryinidae and one of Embolemidae. Gonatopus adelphos Mita & Olmi, sp. nov. and Ampulicomorpha viator Mita & Olmi, sp. nov. are described and illustrated. Gonatopus tambiniae (Esaki & Hashimoto) is recorded for the first time from Anijima. Anteon achterbergi Olmi, Gonatopus nigricans (R. Perkins) are recorded for the first time from Ogasawara Islands. The male of Dryinus sinicus Olmi is described for the first time. Gonatopus hagoromo Terayama & Ohbayashi is considered junior synonymous of Gonatopus tambiniae (Esaki & Hashimoto).
A new species of the deepwater scorpionfish genus Phenacoscorpius (Teleostei: Scorpaenidae) from the Galápagos Islands
Authors: WIBOWO KUNTO , MOTOMURA HIROYUKI
Published: September 2017

A new species of scorpionfish, Phenacoscorpius mccoskeri, is described based on three specimens from the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador, eastern Pacific. The new species is distinguished from other species of Phenacoscorpius by the following combination of characters: 19–20 pectoral-fin rays, middle rays branched; 5–19 pored lateral-line scales; palatine teeth present; small slit behind fourth gill arch; second preopercular spine absent; and nuchal and parietal spines distinct; in addition to some morphometric characters, including head length and width, interorbital width, caudal-peduncle depth and postorbital length.