bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation into the Omp85 protein BamK in hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae, and its role in outer membrane biogenesis
Authors: Torres Von Vergel L. , Heinz Eva , Stubenrauch Christopher J. , Wilksch Jonathan J. , Cao Hanwei , Yang Ji , Clements Abigail , Dunstan Rhys A. , Alcock Felicity , Webb Chaille T. , Dougan Gordon , Strugnell Richard A. , Hay Iain D. , Lithgow Trevor
Published: June 2018

Members of the Omp85 protein superfamily have important roles in Gram‐negative bacteria, with the archetypal protein BamA being ubiquitous given its essential function in the assembly of outer membrane proteins. In some bacterial lineages, additional members of the family exist and, in most of these cases, the function of the protein is unknown. We detected one of these Omp85 proteins in the pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae B5055, and refer to the protein as BamK. Here, we show that bamK is a conserved element in the core genome of Klebsiella, and its expression rescues a loss‐of‐function ∆bamA mutant. We developed an E. coli model system to measure and compare the specific activity of BamA and BamK in the assembly reaction for the critical substrate LptD, and find that BamK is as efficient as BamA in assembling the native LptDE complex. Comparative structural analysis revealed that the major distinction between BamK and BamA is in the external facing surface of the protein, and we discuss how such changes may contribute to a mechanism for resistance against infection by bacteriophage.
Threshold regulation and stochasticity from the MecA/ClpCP proteolytic system in Streptococcus mutans competence
Authors: Son M. , Kaspar J. , Ahn S. J. , Burne R. A. , Hagen S. J.
Published: June 2018

Many bacterial species use the MecA/ClpCP proteolytic system to block entry into genetic competence. In Streptococcus mutans, MecA/ClpCP degrades ComX (also called SigX), an alternative sigma factor for the comY operon and other late competence genes. Although the mechanism of MecA/ClpCP has been studied in multiple Streptococcus species, its role within noisy competence pathways is poorly understood. S. mutans competence can be triggered by two different peptides, CSP and XIP, but it is not known whether MecA/ClpCP acts similarly for both stimuli, how it affects competence heterogeneity, and how its regulation is overcome. We have studied the effect of MecA/ClpCP on the activation of comY in individual S. mutans cells. Our data show that MecA/ClpCP is active under both XIP and CSP stimulation, that it provides threshold control of comY, and that it adds noise in comY expression. Our data agree quantitatively with a model in which MecA/ClpCP prevents adventitious entry into competence by sequestering or intercepting low levels of ComX. Competence is permitted when ComX levels exceed a threshold, but cell‐to‐cell heterogeneity in MecA levels creates variability in that threshold. Therefore, MecA/ClpCP provides a stochastic switch, located downstream of the already noisy comX, that enhances phenotypic diversity.
The Scathingly Brilliant Scholarship of Lisa Blomgren Amsler (Formerly Bingham)
Authors: Hernandez‐Crespo Mariana D. , Lipsky David B. , Nabatchi Tina , O'Leary Rosemary
Published: June 2018

This essay honors Lisa Blomgren Amsler (formerly Bingham) as an International Association for Conflict Management Jeffrey Z. Rubin Award recipient (2006). Lisa is the author or co‐author of over 125 path‐breaking publications that span the fields of dispute resolution, negotiation, conflict management, public administration, public policy, law, philosophy, and organizational studies, among many others. She the consummate example of “thinking DaVinci” —using lateral thinking, moving fluidly across contexts and perspectives, taking knowledge from one context and applying it to another, and fostering creativity and innovation in scholarship. This article focuses on Lisa's contributions in the areas of mandatory arbitration and the effects of mediation, justice, and justness in alternative dispute resolution and public participation, and collaborative public management. In addition, we highlight Lisa's impact outside the United States. We give Lisa the last word where she analyzes gaps in research and practice, as well as the future of the field.
Periodontal therapy and endothelial function in coronary artery disease: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Saffi Marco Aurélio L. , Rabelo‐Silva Eneida R. , Polanczyk Carisi A. , Furtado Mariana V. , Montenegro Marlon M. , Ribeiro Ingrid W. J. , Kampits Cassio , Rösing Cassiano K. , Haas Alex N.
Published: June 2018

Objective

To assess the effects of periodontal treatment on endothelial function in patients with coronary artery disease.

Materials and Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 69 patients with stable coronary disease and severe periodontitis. The test group received nonsurgical periodontal therapy consisting of personalized oral hygiene instructions, subgingival scaling, and root planing per quadrant, whereas the control group received equal treatment after the study period. Endothelial function was assessed by measurement of brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation, concentrations of sVCAM‐1, sICAM‐1, and P‐selectin in serum before and 3 months after periodontal therapy.

Results

The test group exhibited statistically better periodontal parameters—plaque, probing depth, periodontal attachment loss, and bleeding on probing. No significant improvements were observed in the control (1.37%) and test (1.39%) groups in flow‐mediated dilation, with no significant between‐group difference. sVCAM‐1 concentration increased in the control group (997.6 ± 384.4–1201.8 ± 412.5; p = 0.03), whereas in the test group, no significant changes were observed (915.1 ± 303.8–1050.3 ± 492.3; p = 0.17), resulting in a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.04). The same pattern was observed for concentrations of sICAM‐1.

Conclusion

Periodontal treatment did not provide better vasodilation in patients with coronary disease in a short‐term follow‐up period, although it maintained blood concentrations of markers of vascular inflammation.
A technological crossroads: Exploring diversity in the pressure blade technology of Mesolithic Latvia
Authors: Damlien Hege , Berg‐Hansen Inger Marie , Zagorska Ilga , Kalniņš Mārcis , Nielsen Svein V. , Koxvold Lucia U. , Bērziņš Valdis , Schülke Almut
Published: June 2018

A long‐standing debate in archaeology concerns the sources of technological diversification among prehistoric hunter‐gatherers. This includes the study of the emergence and spread of pressure blade technology in Northern Europe during the Early Holocene. Until now, there has been little technological study of lithic collections from the East Baltic region, and our knowledge of the development and spread of this technology in the area is inadequate. This article presents for the first time a technological analysis of lithic assemblages from seven Early and Middle Mesolithic sites in the territory of present‐day Latvia, offering new possibilities for discussing pressure blade technology and research objectives connected with it. Furthermore, variation in elements of this technology is explored in relation to raw‐material characteristics through experimental flint knapping. Finally, the factors influencing diversity in craft traditions, as well as large‐scale communication and shifting spheres of interaction within Northern Europe during the Mesolithic, are discussed.
Status Goods and Vertical Line Extensions
Authors: Li Krista J.
Published: June 2018

Conspicuous consumption of status goods signals consumers’ status and grants status value to them. In this article, we examine how firms selling status goods make vertical line extension decisions when they take consumers’ status preferences into account. Analyzing an incumbent's vertical line extensions when it faces a threat of entry, we find that status preferences can make unprofitable extensions profitable. Moreover, without status preferences, an incumbent can introduce line extensions to crowd out the competitor's profit and deter entry. However, with status preferences, introducing line extensions can increase the competitor's profit and attract entry. We also find that incumbents should introduce downward extensions when they are monopolists and upward extensions when they face competition from lower‐quality entrants. As the cost of entry increases, incumbents should change from introducing upward extensions to introducing downward extensions. As consumers’ status preferences increase, incumbents introduce downward extensions under a wider range of situations.
Risk Pooling, Supply Chain Hierarchy, and Analysts’ Forecasts
Authors: Hu Nan , Ke Jian‐Yu (Fisher) , Liu Ling , Zhang Yue
Published: June 2018

We investigate whether a firm's risk pooling affects its analysts’ forecasts, specifically in terms of forecast accuracy and their use of public vs. private information, and how risk pooling interacts with a firm's position in the supply chain to affect analysts’ forecasts. We use a social network analysis method to operationalize risk pooling and supply chain hierarchy, and find that risk pooling significantly reduces analysts’ forecast errors and increases (decreases) their use of public (private) information. We also find that the positive (negative) relationships between risk pooling and analyst forecast accuracy and analysts’ use of public (private) information are more pronounced upstream than downstream in a supply chain.
It's Complicated: The 2014–2015 U.S. Measles Outbreak and Parents’ Vaccination Beliefs, Confidence, and Intentions
Authors: Cacciatore Michael A. , Nowak Glen J. , Evans Nathaniel J.
Published: June 2018

While it seems intuitive that highly visible vaccine‐preventable disease outbreaks should impact perceptions of disease risk and facilitate vaccination, few empirical studies exist to confirm or dispel these beliefs. This study investigates the impact of the 2014–2015 Disneyland measles outbreak on parents’ vaccination attitudes and future vaccination intentions. The analysis relies on a pair of public opinion surveys of American parents with at least one child under the age of six (N = 1,000 across each survey). Controlling for basic demographics, we found higher levels of reported confidence in the safety and efficacy of childhood vaccinations in our follow‐up data collection. However, this confidence was also accompanied by elevated levels of concern toward childhood vaccines among American parents. We then examined how different subgroups in the population scored on these measures before and after the outbreak. We found that parents with high levels of interest in the topic of vaccines and a child who is not fully upto date with the recommended vaccination schedule reported more supportive attitudes toward vaccines. However, future intentions to follow the recommended vaccination schedule were not positively impacted by the outbreak. Possible explanations for these results and implications for vaccination outreach are discussed.
Against Thatcherite Linguistics: Rule‐following, Speech Communities, and Biolanguage
Authors: Glackin Shane N.
Published: June 2018

According to Chomsky and his followers, language as a biological phenomenon is a property of individual minds and brains; its status as a social phenomenon is merely epiphenomenal and not a proper object of scientific study. On a rival view, the individual's biological capacity for language cannot be properly understood in isolation from the linguistic environment, which it both depends on for its operation and—in collaboration with other speakers—builds and shapes for future generations.

I argue here for the rival view by demonstrating firstly its greater consonance with several themes in current biological theory, and secondly its ability to answer two well‐known philosophical challenges to generative linguistics due to Quine and Kripke.
A novel method to measure skin mechanical properties with three‐dimensional digital image correlation
Authors: Xu Z. , Dela Cruz J. , Fthenakis C. , Saliou C.
Published: June 2018

Background

Measuring skin mechanical properties has been of great interest in the skincare industry. It is a high accuracy and non‐invasive optical technique which quantitatively tracks skin movement and deformation under mechanical perturbations.

Methods

A study was conducted with female subjects (25‐65 years old). A refined speckle pattern applied onto the skin surface was used for DIC measurements. A unidirectional force pulled the skin at a constant velocity, while the deformation process was quantified by the DIC. Prior to the DIC measurement, Cutometer® readings were taken on the same area. The DIC protocol's reproducibility across multiple pattern applications, the measurement's repeatability, and the sensitivity in differentiating skin mechanical properties were investigated.

Results

Subjects were clustered with statistical significance according to their skin mechanical properties described by six DIC metrics (μ [major strain], σ [major strain], μ [minor strain], σ [minor strain], μ [displacement], and σ [displacement]). Most measurement random errors are below 6%. This is several folds smaller in magnitude than the difference in the mean response between the clusters. Several Cutometer® parameters also showed good agreement with μ (displacement).

Conclusions

DIC was able to differentiate skins of different mechanical qualities. We also proposed the physical significance of the DIC metrics. Some of the DIC metrics potentially offer new insights into skin mechanical properties that complement those revealed by conventional instruments. Accurate measurements, large measurement areas along with ease of direct visualization are substantial advantages of DIC.
Solving the mystery: Hyalinized cyst wall containing organism‐like structures in a lung transplant donor
Authors: Bini Viotti Julia , Loebe Matthias , Brozzi Nicolas , Pinto Andre , Simkins Jacques , Cloke Christina M. , Camargo Jose F. , Salama Sam , Abbo Lilian M.
Published: June 2018

A 59‐year‐old man with non‐ischemic cardiomyopathy underwent orthotopic heart transplantation. The donor, a 31‐year‐old male declared brain dead after a gunshot wound to the head, was considered high risk due to history of incarceration, illicit drug use, and sex with a HIV‐positive partner. At organ procurement, the heart, kidneys, pancreas, and liver looked grossly normal. A small right lower lobe nodule was noticed, and lung biopsy was performed. Bronchoscopy showed purulent secretions in the right lower lobe. Images from pathology are presented. Lung biopsy confirmed the presence of hyalinized cyst wall containing organism‐like structures. A combination of culture, microscopic morphology, and gene sequencing was used to identify the causative organism. The patient and all other organ recipients received appropriate antifungal prophylaxis and remain asymptomatic 6 months post‐transplant.
A vexing case of bone pain in a renal transplant recipient: Voriconazole‐induced periostitis
Authors: Poinen Krishna , Leung Marianna , Wright Alissa Jade , Landsberg David
Published: June 2018

Immunosuppression increases the risk of opportunistic infections including fungal infections in solid organ transplant recipients. Voriconazole is used to treat invasive aspergillus infections but prolonged usage may rarely lead to periostitis. Increased plasma fluoride concentration leading to osteoblastic upregulation is thought to be the catalyst, and symptom reversal occurs with discontinuation of the offending agent. A renal transplant recipient who was on voriconazole for invasive aspergillosis developed diffuse debilitating symmetrical bone pain. Having ruled out other neurological, metabolic, and drug etiologies, voriconazole‐induced periostitis was diagnosed. Increased plasma fluoride level was documented, but bone scan was non‐specific. A therapeutic discontinuation of voriconazole and switch to posaconazole provided rapid symptom resolution. The patient accidently restarted voriconazole as an outpatient resulting in the same symptomology, and thus provided further evidence that this was drug related. Voriconazole‐induced periostitis is a described entity in immunosuppressed solid organ transplant patients who are treated with a prolonged course of voriconazole. This case study is novel in that it demonstrates drug induced periostitis in a renal transplant recipient who developed debilitating periostitis within a short time after starting voriconazole and equally rapid resolution once it was discontinued. We conclude that patients treated with voriconazole should be routinely monitored for periostitis.
Healthcare related transmission of Pneumocystis pneumonia: From key insights toward comprehensive prevention
Authors: de Boer Mark G. J. , Walzer Peter D. , Mori Shunsuke
Published: June 2018

In at risk populations, Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) may occur as a solitary event as well as in a cluster‐ or outbreak setting due to interpatient transmission of Pneumocystis jirovecii. Despite the data and insights obtained from studies of outbreaks of PCP, the development and implementation of comprehensive recommendations for the prevention of healthcare related transmission of P. jirovecii have been delayed. Both optimization of chemoprophylaxis strategies as well as combination with prudent use of isolation precautions are warranted to achieve this goal. The rationale of the available measures for the prevention of PCP should be viewed in the context of what is currently known about the complex biology and epidemiology of P. jirovecii. From there, phased but practical prevention strategies can be deducted to balance the efforts, costs and negative consequences of chemoprophylaxis and isolation precautions with the beneficial effect of preventing healthcare related transmission of P. jirovecii and development of PCP.
Single fraction stereotactic radiation therapy (stereotactic radiosurgery) is a feasible method for treating intracranial meningiomas in dogs
Authors: Kelsey Krista L. , Gieger Tracy L. , Nolan Michael W.
Published: June 2018

The aim of this retrospective, pilot study was to evaluate stereotactic radiosurgery as a method for treating intracranial meningiomas in dogs. Included dogs had an imaging diagnosis of presumed intracranial meningioma, were treated using a standardized stereotactic radiosurgery protocol, and had a follow‐up time of >6 months after stereotactic radiosurgery. A single fraction of 16 Gy stereotactic radiosurgery was delivered to the tumor, with an internal simultaneously integrated boost to a total dose of 20–24 Gy to the central portion of the tumor. Thirty‐two dogs were sampled. One dog was euthanized in the periprocedural period, and 10 of the remaining 31 dogs (31%) experienced an acute adverse event (defined as declining neurologic function due to tumor progression or treatment‐associated complication within the first 6 months after stereotactic radiosurgery), three of which were fatal. Too few subjects (n = 6) had cross‐sectional imaging after stereotactic radiosurgery to determine an objective response rate; however, 17/30 (57%) dogs assessed for response had a perceived clinical benefit from treatment. The overall median survival time was 519 days (95% confidence interval: 330–708 days); 64% and 24% of dogs were alive at 1 and 2 years after stereotactic radiosurgery, respectively. Dogs with infratentorial tumor location and high gradient indices had shorter survival. There were no factors identified which were predictive of acute adverse event. Survival times reported herein are similar to what has previously been reported for other stereotactic and traditional fractionated radiotherapy protocols. Findings therefore supported the use of stereotactic radiosurgery as an alternative method for treating dogs with presumed intracranial meningiomas.
Changing trend in the seroprevalence and risk factors of human leptospirosis in the South Andaman Island, India
Authors: Vimal Raj Ratchagadasse , Vinod Kumar Kirubakaran , Lall Chandan , Vedhagiri Kumaresan , Sugunan Attayur Purushothaman , Sunish Ittoop Pulikkottil , Sharma Sameer , Vijayachari Paluru
Published: June 2018

Seroprevalence of leptospirosis among a healthy population of the South Andaman Island was assessed through random sampling. Previous studies have high seroprevalences of up to 55% in general population and 65% in agricultural labourers. The study subjects (1,181 in total, 781 rural and 400 urban) were interviewed and tested for antibodies against Leptospira. Multivariate models were developed to determine the risk factors in the rural and the urban population. The overall seroprevalence was 10.9%, with rural (12.9%) being higher than the urban subjects (7.0%). The commonest infecting serogroup was Icterohaemorrhagiae (53.5%), followed by Grippotyphosa (13.2%). Compared to the earlier observation, seroprevalence was lower and an apparent shift in the infecting serogroup was found. This shift was in concordance with the changing trend in animal population. Significant difference in risk factors, both in rural and urban areas, was also observed. Similar trends in seroprevalence are being observed around the world. Therefore, time to time prevalence studies are needed for the development of effective control measure.
Folic acid supplementation does not attenuate thermoregulatory or cardiovascular strain of older adults exposed to extreme heat and humidity
Authors: Gagnon Daniel , Romero Steven A. , Cramer Matthew N. , Kouda Ken , Poh Paula Y S. , Ngo Hai , Jay Ollie , Crandall Craig G.
Published: June 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does folic acid supplementation alleviate thermoregulatory and cardiovascular strain of older adults during exposure to extreme heat and humidity?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Folic acid supplementation for 6 weeks did not affect whole‐limb blood flow/vasodilatation, core and skin temperatures, heart rate, blood pressure and cardiac output. Thus, 6 weeks of folic acid supplementation does not alleviate thermoregulatory or cardiovascular strain of healthy older adults exposed to extreme heat and humidity.

Folic acid supplementation reverses age‐related reductions in cutaneous vasodilatation during passive heating. However, it is unknown if folic acid supplementation alleviates thermoregulatory and cardiovascular strain experienced by older adults during heat exposure. We evaluated the effect of folic acid supplementation on thermoregulatory and cardiovascular responses of nine healthy older adults (61–72 years, 3 males/6 females) exposed to extreme heat and humidity. Participants rested at 42°C while relative humidity was increased from 30% to 70% in 2% increments every 5 min. The protocol was performed before (CON) and after (FOLIC) 6 weeks of folic acid supplementation (5 mg day−1). Local cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC, laser‐Doppler flowmetry), forearm vascular conductance (FVC, Doppler ultrasound), mean skin and oesophageal temperatures, heart rate, blood pressure and cardiac output were measured. Folic acid supplementation increased fasting serum folate concentrations (P < 0.01). Absolute CVC was greater throughout the protocol following supplementation (CON: 1.29 ± 0.16 units mmHg−1 vs. FOLIC: 1.65 ± 0.24 units mmHg−1, P < 0.01). However, normalized CVC (CON: 54 ± 8% vs. FOLIC: 59 ± 7%, P = 0.22), FVC (CON: 3.47 ± 0.76 ml mmHg−1 vs. FOLIC: 3.40 ± 0.56 ml mmHg−1, P = 0.93), mean skin (P = 0.81) and oesophageal (CON: 36.87 ± 0.28°C vs. folic: 36.90 ± 0.25°C, P = 0.98) temperatures, heart rate (CON: 83 ± 10 beats min−1 vs. FOLIC: 84 ± 8 beats min−1, P = 0.64), blood pressure (P = 0.71) and cardiac output (P = 0.20) were unaffected by folic acid supplementation. These results demonstrate that 6 weeks of folic acid supplementation does not alleviate thermoregulatory or cardiovascular strain of healthy older adults exposed to extreme heat and humidity.
Cardiac β‐adrenergic responsiveness of obese Zucker rats: The role of AMPK
Authors: Bussey Carol T. , Thaung H. P. Aye , Hughes Gillian , Bahn Andrew , Lamberts Regis R.
Published: June 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of the study?

Is the reduced signalling of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of energy homeostasis in the heart, responsible for the reduced β‐adrenergic responsiveness of the heart in obesity?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Inhibition of AMPK in isolated hearts prevented the reduced cardiac β‐adrenergic responsiveness of obese rats, which was accompanied by reduced phosphorylation of AMPK, a proxy of AMPK activity. This suggests a direct functional link between β‐adrenergic responsiveness and AMPK signalling in the heart, and it suggests that AMPK might be an important target to restore the β‐adrenergic responsiveness in the heart in obesity.

The obesity epidemic impacts heavily on cardiovascular health, in part owing to changes in cardiac metabolism. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key regulator of energy homeostasis in the heart and is regulated by β‐adrenoceptors (β‐ARs) in normal conditions. In obesity, chronic sympathetic overactivation leads to impaired cardiac β‐AR responsiveness, although it is unclear whether AMPK signalling, downstream of β‐ARs, contributes to this dysfunction. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether reduced AMPK signalling is responsible for the reduced β‐AR responsiveness in obesity. In isolated hearts of lean and obese Zucker rats, we tested β‐AR responsiveness to the β1‐AR agonist isoprenaline (ISO, 1 × 10−10 to 5 × 10−8 m) in the absence and presence of the AMPK inhibitor, compound C (CC, 10 μm). The β1‐AR expression and AMPK phosphorylation were assessed by Western blot. β‐Adrenergic responsiveness was reduced in the hearts of obese rats (logEC50 of ISO‐developed pressure dose–response curves: lean −8.53 ± 0.13 × 10x m versus obese −8.35 ± 0.10 × 10x m
; P < 0.05 lean versus obese, n = 6 per group). This difference was not apparent after AMPK inhibition (logEC50 of ISO‐developed pressure curves: lean CC −8.19 ± 0.12 × 10x m versus obese CC 8.17 ± 0.13 × 10x m, P < 0.05, n = 6 per group). β1‐Adrenergic receptor expression and AMPK phosphorylation were reduced in hearts of obese rats (AMPK at Thr172: lean 1.73 ± 0.17 a.u. versus lean CC 0.81 ± 0.13 a.u., and obese 1.18 ± 0.09 a.u. versus obese CC 0.81 ± 0.16 a.u., P < 0.05, n = 6 per group). Thus, a direct functional link between β‐adrenergic responsiveness and AMPK signalling in the heart exists, and AMPK might be an important target to restore the reduced cardiac β‐adrenergic responsiveness in obesity.
The anatomical pathway from the mesodiencephalic junction to the inferior olive relays perioral sensory signals to the cerebellum in the mouse
Authors: Kubo Reika , Aiba Atsu , Hashimoto Kouichi
Published: June 2018

Key points

Perioral tactile signals are transmitted via the infraorbital nerve (ION) to trigeminal nuclei. Each cerebellar Purkinje cell (PC) receives this signal as complex spikes (CSs) via a climbing fibre (CF) emerging from the inferior olive (IO).

The anatomical pathway from trigeminal nuclei to the IO is not clearly identified.

In the present study, we examined candidate anatomical pathways for perioral sensory signalling by analysing CSs recorded from PCs in male mice by single unit recording.

CS generation by ION stimulation was inhibited by injection of a GABAA receptor agonist, muscimol, into the contralateral mesodiencephalic junction, which is referred to as the area parafascicularis prerubralis (PfPr). The number of CSs evoked by mechanical whisker stimulation was also decreased by contralateral PfPr inhibition.

These results suggest the existence of a sensory signalling pathway to the IO via the PfPr in mice.

Perioral tactile signals are transmitted via the infraorbital nerve (ION) to trigeminal nuclei. Each cerebellar Purkinje cell receives this signal as complex spikes (CSs) via a climbing fibre emerging from the inferior olive (IO). However, the anatomical pathway from the trigeminal nuclei to the IO is not clearly identified. In the present study, we recorded CSs from Purkinje cells in male mice by single unit recording, and examined the signal transduction pathway. CSs were evoked by electrical stimulation of the ipsilateral or contralateral ION with a latency of 20–70 ms. CS generation by ipsilateral ION stimulation was inhibited by injection of a GABAA receptor agonist, muscimol, into the contralateral mesodiencephalic junction, ranging from around the fasciculus retroflexus to the interstitial nucleus of Cajal, which is referred to as the area parafascicularis prerubralis (PfPr). CSs evoked by contralateral ION stimulation were also suppressed by muscimol injection into the PfPr, although the effective area was more restricted. Furthermore, CSs evoked by mechanical stimulation around the whisker region were suppressed by PfPr inhibition. We also found that the primary motor cortex plays a role to suppress this signalling pathway. These results indicate the existence of an anatomical pathway for conducting perioral sensory signals to the IO via the PfPr.
Conceptual Design Supported Automatic Virtual Prototype Design Method for Mechanical Devices
Authors: Wang Yu-Xin
Published: June 2018

Along with the developments towards global manufacture of products and competitive intensification of the market, it is needed urgently that enterprises can develop their products to meet the requirements of markets at first time. So increasing competitiveness of products and reducing design life cycle of products are two key problems to be solved for design engineers. 3D software has made it possible to model products with solid geometry virtual entity, but it can’t support conceptual design of mechanical devices. Considering the advantage of 3D software in speeding up the process of design and manufacture of products, in this paper, an automatic virtual prototype design method with conceptual design supported for mechanical devices is presented. By this method, all the design processes, such as conceptual design, structure design, simulation, virtual assembly and so on can be carried out automatically, and the design results in the latest design step will be used as the design data for the current design step. With this method, the total design processes from the conceptual design to virtual entity prototype design can be carried out automatically, efficiently and systematically.
A Framework for Optimal Product Concept Generation
Authors: Reich Yoram , Ziv-Av Amir
Published: June 2018

Concept design is the most critical step in product development. To a large extent, its quality determines the fate of the product. Support for concept generation is mainly intuitive beside few recent attempts to develop concept generation support methods. In this paper, we review and exemplify the importance of quality product concepts and the available literature on concept generation. We present a framework that is simple yet comprehensive for generating optimal concepts in diverse disciplines. The framework rests on a method for optimal concept generation that has sound mathematical foundation. The method has been evolved and refined over years of practical experience and research. The present version has been used in numerous successful real projects. We illustrate the use of the framework in two case studies and explain the sources of its generality. The framework is flexible thus can accommodate diverse design concerns as well as model concept design in the context of new business practices such as outsourcing.
Ontogeny of Megalolaelaps colossus sp. nov. (Acari: Megalolaelapidae), an enigmatic symbiont of dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in Colombia
Authors: Cómbita-Heredia Jose Orlando , Quintero-Gutiérrez Edwin Javier , Klompen Hans
Published: June 2018

Post-embryonic development of Megalolaelaps colossus sp. nov., is described and illustrated. This unusually large species of mite is closely associated with the dung beetle Oxysternon conspicillatum (Weber) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in Colombia. All instars of the mite occur on the beetle, except for the larva. This is the first description of all instars for a species in this genus.
Mechanisms of active control of sound radiation from an opening with boundary installed secondary sources
Authors: Wang Shuping , Tao Jiancheng , Qiu Xiaojun , Pan Jie
Published: June 2018

Previous work has demonstrated that installing secondary sources at the edge of a cavity opening can reduce sound radiation through it, but the mechanisms are not clear, which is investigated in this paper by using the modal decomposition method. It is found that a double layer edge system achieves better performance than a single layer system because secondary sources at the edge of the same layer cannot excite some modes effectively and those at different heights compensate this. There exists an upper limit frequency for the systems with boundary installed secondary sources, which is mainly decided by the length of the short side of the opening. More secondary source layers at the edge will increase the upper limit frequency.
Broadband characterization of plastic and high intensity therapeutic ultrasound phantoms using time delay spectrometry—With validation using Kramers–Kronig relations
Authors: Maruvada Subha , Liu Yunbo , Gammell Paul , Wear Keith
Published: June 2018

Time delay spectrometry (TDS) is extended for broadband characterization of plastics (low-density polyethylene, LDPE) and tissue-mimicking material (TMM). The results suggest that TDS and the conventional broadband pulse method give comparable measurements for frequency-dependent attenuation coefficient and phase velocity near the center frequency, where signal-to-noise ratio is high. However, TDS measurements show enhanced bandwidth for attenuation coefficient of 30%−40% (LDPE) and 89%−100% (TMM) and for phase velocity of 43% (LDPE) and 36% (TMM) for a single transmitter/receiver pair. In addition, TDS provides measurements of dispersion that are consistent with predictions based on the Kramers−Kronig relations to within 5 m/s over the band from 2 to 12 MHz in LDPE and to within 1 m/s in TMM over the band from 0.5 to 29 MHz.
Examining Communication as Information Exchange as a Predictor of Task Cohesion in Sport Teams
Authors: McLaren Colin D. , Spink Kevin S.
Published: June 2018

Past research in sport has identified a relationship between communication as a social property (i.e., acceptance, distinctiveness, positive conflict, and negative conflict) and task cohesion. Operationalizing communication in this manner is viewing the construct through a social lens. Given that forming task-cohesion perceptions also might be linked to how members exchange information, examining the relationship between communication as information exchange and cohesion appears worthwhile. Results from a hierarchical regression (N = 176) revealed that team member communication as both a social property and information exchange positively predicted perceived task cohesion while controlling for team performance (). Relevant to the study purpose, it was found that communication as information exchange not only contributed unique variance to task cohesion after controlling for communication as a social property and team performance, β = 0.32, sr (semipartial correlation) = .24, but also resulted in a reallocation in variance from the previously significant communication social properties predicting task cohesion.
Estimates of Achilles Tendon Moment Arm Length at Different Ankle Joint Angles: Effect of Passive Moment
Authors: Fletcher Jared R. , MacIntosh Brian R.
Published: June 2018

The length of a muscle’s moment arm can be estimated noninvasively using ultrasound and the tendon excursion method. The main assumption with the tendon excursion method is that the force acting on the tendon during passive rotation is constant. However, passive force changes through the range of motion, and thus moment arm is underestimated. The authors attempted to account for passive force on the measurement of Achilles tendon moment arm using the tendon excursion method in 8 male and female runners. Tendon excursion was measured using ultrasound while the ankle was passively rotated at 0.17 rad·s−1. Moment arm was calculated at 5° intervals as the ratio of tendon displacement to joint rotation from 70° to 115°. Passive moment (MP) was measured using a dynamometer. The displacement attributable to MP was calculated by monitoring tendon displacement during a ramp isometric maximum contraction. MP was 5.7 (2.1) N·m at 70° and decreased exponentially from 70° to 90°. This resulted in MP-corrected moment arms that were significantly larger than uncorrected moment arms at joint angles where MP was present. Furthermore, MP-corrected moment arms did not change with ankle angle, which was not the case for uncorrected moment arms.
Using Internet search data to examine the relationship between anti-Muslim and pro-ISIS sentiment in U.S. counties
Authors: Bail Christopher A. , Merhout Friedolin , Ding Peng
Published: June 2018

Internet search data reveal an association between anti-Muslim and pro-ISIS searches in U.S. counties.
Clay mineral diversity and abundance in sedimentary rocks of Gale crater, Mars
Authors: Bristow Thomas F. , Rampe Elizabeth B. , Achilles Cherie N. , Blake David F. , Chipera Steve J. , Craig Patricia , Crisp Joy A. , Des Marais David J. , Downs Robert T. , Gellert Ralf , Grotzinger John P. , Gupta Sanjeev , Hazen Robert M. , Horgan Briony , Hogancamp Joanna V. , Mangold Nicolas , Mahaffy Paul R. , McAdam Amy C. , Ming Doug W. , Morookian John Michael , Morris Richard V. , Morrison Shaunna M. , Treiman Allan H. , Vaniman David T. , Vasavada Ashwin R. , Yen Albert S.
Published: June 2018

Clay minerals found in Gale crater, Mars, record surficial chemical weathering and changing conditions in an ancient lake.
The Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacterium Variovorax boronicumulans CGMCC 4969 Regulates the Level of Indole-3-Acetic Acid Synthesized from Indole-3-Acetonitrile
Authors: Sun Shi-Lei , Yang Wen-Long , Fang Wen-Wan , Zhao Yun-Xiu , Guo Ling , Dai Yi-Jun
Published: June 2018

We demonstrated that
Variovorax boronicumulans
CGMCC 4969 has two enzymatic systems—nitrilase and nitrile hydratase/amidase—that convert indole-3-acetonitrile (IAN) to the important plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). The two IAA synthesis systems have very different regulatory mechanisms, affecting the IAA synthesis rate and duration. The nitrilase was induced by IAN, which was rapidly converted to IAA; subsequently, IAA was rapidly consumed for cell growth. The nitrile hydratase (NHase) and amidase system was constitutively expressed and slowly but continuously synthesized IAA. In addition to synthesizing IAA from IAN, CGMCC 4969 has a rapid IAA degradation system, which would be helpful for a host plant to eliminate redundant IAA. This study indicates that the plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium
V. boronicumulans
CGMCC 4969 has the potential to be used by host plants to regulate the IAA level.
Complete Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus reuteri WHH1689, Isolated from Traditional Chinese Highland Barley Wine
Authors: Chen Su , Chen Lin , Chen Lie , Ren Xueliang , Ge Hongjuan , Kang Guokai , Sun Sheng , Chen Zuoguo , Sun Yong , Li Yanjun
Published: June 2018

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
Lactobacillus reuteri
WHH1689, which was isolated from traditional Chinese highland barley wine in the Tibetan Plateau of China. The genome consists of a circular chromosome (2.04 Mb).
Genome Sequence of Methylotrophic Azospirillum sp. Strain B2, Isolated from a Raised Sphagnum Bog
Authors: Grouzdev Denis S. , Tikhonova Ekaterina N. , Krutkina Maria S. , Kravchenko Irina K.
Published: June 2018

Azospirillum
sp. strain B2 is a soil bacterium which was originally isolated from the Sosvyatskoe raised
Sphagnum
bog in Russia. Here, we present the approximately 8-Mb draft genome sequence of
Azospirillum
sp. B2, with the aim of providing insight into the genomic basis of its ecological success in peatland settings.
Draft Genome Sequence of Rhodococcus opacus Strain 04-OD7, Which Can Mobilize Phosphate
Authors: Zheng Bang-Xiao , Zhang Huang-Kai , Ding Kai
Published: June 2018

Rhodococcus opacus
strain 04-OD7 (=CCTCC AB 2017148) is a Gram-positive bacterium showing inorganic phosphate solubilization capacity for the first time in the genus
Rhodococcus
. We present here the draft genome description of
R. opacus
04-OD7 along with multiple phosphorus (P) mobilization-related genes, supporting its inorganic phosphate solubilization.
Reduce, Induce, Thrive: Bacterial Redox Sensing during Pathogenesis
Authors: Reniere Michelle L.
Published: June 2018

The abundance of oxidants and reductants must be balanced for an organism to thrive. Bacteria have evolved methods to prevent redox imbalances and to mitigate their deleterious consequences through the expression of detoxification enzymes, antioxidants, and systems to repair or degrade damaged proteins and DNA.
Communicating Microbiology Concepts from Multiple Contexts through Poster Presentations
Authors: Gruss Amy Borello
Published: June 2018

Accredited environmental engineering degrees require graduates to be able to apply their scholarship to concepts of professional practice and design. This transferable skill of relating what you learn in one setting to another situation is vital for all professions, not just engineering. A course project involving designing and presenting a professional poster was implemented to enhance student mastery in Environmental Engineering Microbiology while also developing communication and transferable skills vital for all majors. Students were asked to read a contemporary non-fiction book relating to microbiology and expand upon the book’s thesis by integrating course content, news articles, and peer-reviewed journal articles. They then were required to present this information in class using a professional poster. Students felt the project allowed them to synthesize and organize information, analyze ideas, and integrate ideas from various sources. These transferable skills are vital for students and professionals alike to be able to communicate advanced information and master a topic.
Interdisciplinary Research Brought to School—Connecting Chemistry and Biology through Nanotechnology
Authors: Kampschulte Lorenz , Akaygün Sevil , Adadan Emine , Eilert Karsten , Heyduck Birgit
Published: June 2018

Nanoscience is a cutting edge and highly interdisciplinary field of research. The experiment presented here is a good example of bringing this interdisciplinary research to school by working with biological and chemical methods. Students first synthesize silver nanoparticles and then test them for their antimicrobial effect in a yeast culture. By observing the yeast growth and the nanosilver-induced suppression over 72 hours, students not only learn about nanoscience but also get an insight into research methods commonly used in the field of toxicology – which is highly relevant for the risk assessment of nanomaterials. Further, attention was given to develop a teaching unit that has close connections to real research, i.e. highlighting typical features of current research like interdisciplinarity, but also standard research procedures like multiple measurements and systematic test analysis to gain more reliable results. Detailed illustrated instructions for all parts of the experiment are included in the Appendix, as well as a brief background on nanosilver, an Excel sheet for the test evaluation and the description of a setup to take time-lapse videos of the experiment.
Using the Tools of Informal Science Education to Connect Science and the Public
Authors: Killikelly April
Published: June 2018

Traditional modes of communication within the scientific community, including presentation of data at conferences and in peer-reviewed publications, use technical jargon that limits public engagement. While altering word choice is an important method for increasing public engagement, the data itself may not be enough. For example, communicating the lack of evidence that vaccines cause autism did not convince many reluctant parents to vaccinate their kids (Nyhan, Reifler, Richey, Freed,
Pediatrics
133:e835–e842, 2014). To address this gap between the scientific community and the public, many journals are adopting open-access policies and publishing lay-abstracts. Meanwhile, “meet a scientist” programs are creating opportunities for scientists to engage with the public in person. However, these programs may not be as effective as they could be. Many scientists still subscribe to an information-deficit model in which “the data speaks for itself.” Alternative tools that go beyond the data are needed. Here, I present three tools to create connections between the public and science: 3-D objects, games, and storytelling. These multidimensional and multisensory methods do more than promote understanding of scientific data; they may also be used to convey science as a verb and as an essential viewpoint in the human struggle for understanding.
Communicating Climate Change: Lessons Learned from a Researcher-Museum Collaboration
Authors: Parker Christopher T. , Cockerham Debbie , Foss Ann W.
Published: June 2018

The need for science education and outreach is great. However, despite the ever-growing body of available scientific information, facts are often misrepresented to or misunderstood by the general public. This can result in uninformed decisions that negatively impact society at both individual and community levels. One solution to this problem is to make scientific information more available to the public through outreach programs. Most outreach programs, however, focus on health initiatives, STEM programs, or young audiences exclusively. This article describes a collaboration between the Research and Learning Center at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and an interdisciplinary team of researchers from the Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex area. The collaboration was a pilot effort of a science communication fellowship and was designed to train researchers to effectively convey current science information to the public with a focus on lifelong learning. We focus on the broader idea of a university-museum collaboration that bridges the science communication gap as we outline the process of forming this collaboration, lessons we learned from the process, and directions that can support future collaborations.