bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Popcorn: critical temperature, jump and sound
Authors: Virot Emmanuel , Ponomarenko Alexandre
Published: February 2015

Popcorn bursts open, jumps and emits a ‘pop’ sound in some hundredths of a second. The physical origin of these three observations remains unclear in the literature. We show that the critical temperature 180°C at which almost all of popcorn pops is consistent with an elementary pressure vessel scenario. We observe that popcorn jumps with a ‘leg’ of starch which is compressed on the ground. As a result, popcorn is midway between two categories of moving systems: explosive plants using fracture mechanisms and jumping animals using muscles. By synchronizing video recordings with acoustic recordings, we propose that the familiar ‘pop’ sound of the popcorn is caused by the release of water vapour.
Novel bioinformatics approach to investigate quantitative phenotype-genotype associations in neuroimaging studies
Authors: Patel Sejal , Park Min Tae M , Chakravarty Mallar M , Knight Jo
Published: February 2015

Imaging genetics is an emerging field in which the association between genes and neuroimaging-based quantitative phenotypes are used to explore the functional role of genes in neuroanatomy and neurophysiology in the context of healthy function and neuropsychiatric disorders. The main obstacle for researchers in the field is the high dimensionality of the data in both the imaging phenotypes and the genetic variants commonly typed. In this article, we develop a novel method that utilizes Gene Ontology, an online database, to select and prioritize certain genes, employing a stratified false discovery rate (sFDR) approach to investigate their associations with imaging phenotypes. sFDR has the potential to increase power in genome wide association studies (GWAS), and is quickly gaining traction as a method for multiple testing correction. Our novel approach addresses both the pressing need in genetic research to move beyond candidate gene studies, while not being overburdened with a loss of power due to multiple testing. As an example of our methodology, we perform a GWAS of hippocampal volume using the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative sample.
Uncovering Long Palindromic Sequences in Rice (Oryza sativasubsp.indica) Genome
Authors: Ahmadikhah Asadollah , Kheiavi Elmira Katanchi , Mosammam Ali Mohammadian
Published: February 2015

Because the rice genome has been sequenced entirely, search to find specific features at genome-wide scale is of high importance. Palindromic sequences are important DNA motifs involved in the regulation of different cellular processes and are a potential source of genetic instability. In order to search and study the long palindromic regions in the rice genome “R” statistical programming language was used. All palindromes, defined as identical inverted repeats with spacer DNA, could be analyzed and sorted according to their frequency, size, GC content, compact index etc. The results showed that the overall palindrome frequency was high in rice genome (nearly 51000 palindromes), with highest and lowest number of palindromes, respectively belongs to chromosome 1 and 12. Palindrome numbers could well explain the rice chromosome expansion (R2>92%). Average GC content of the palindromic sequences is 42.1%, indicating AT-richness and hence, the low-complexity of palindromic sequences. The results also showed different compact indices of palindromes in different chromosomes (43.2 per cM in chromosome 8 and 34.5 per cM in chromosome 3, as highest and lowest, respectively). The possible application of palindrome identification can be the use in the development of a molecular marker system facilitating some genetic studies such as evaluation of genetic variation and gene mapping and also serving as a useful tool in population structure analysis and genome evolution studies. Based on these results it can be concluded that the rice genome is rich in long palindromic sequences that triggered most variation during evolution.

Availability: The R scripts used to construct the palindrome sequence library are available upon request.
Reducing the Genetic Redundancy of Arabidopsis PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1 Transporters to Study Phosphate Uptake and Signaling
Authors: Ayadi Amal , David Pascale , Arrighi Jean-François , Chiarenza Serge , Thibaud Marie-Christine , Nussaume Laurent , Marin Elena
Published: February 2015

Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) absorbs inorganic phosphate (Pi) from the soil through an active transport process mediated by the nine members of the PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1 (PHT1) family. These proteins share a high level of similarity (greater than 61%), with overlapping expression patterns. The resulting genetic and functional redundancy prevents the analysis of their specific roles. To overcome this difficulty, our approach combined several mutations with gene silencing to inactivate multiple members of the PHT1 family, including a cluster of genes localized on chromosome 5 (PHT1;1, PHT1;2, and PHT1;3). Physiological analyses of these lines established that these three genes, along with PHT1;4, are the main contributors to Pi uptake. Furthermore, PHT1;1 plays an important role in translocation from roots to leaves in high phosphate conditions. These genetic tools also revealed that some PHT1 transporters likely exhibit a dual affinity for phosphate, suggesting that their activity is posttranslationally controlled. These lines display significant phosphate deficiency-related phenotypes (e.g. biomass and yield) due to a massive (80%–96%) reduction in phosphate uptake activities. These defects limited the amount of internal Pi pool, inducing compensatory mechanisms triggered by the systemic Pi starvation response. Such reactions have been uncoupled from PHT1 activity, suggesting that systemic Pi sensing is most probably acting downstream of PHT1.
InsP6-Sensitive Variants of the Gle1 mRNA Export Factor Rescue Growth and Fertility Defects of the ipk1 Low-Phytic-Acid Mutation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Lee Ho-Seok , Lee Du-Hwa , Cho Hui Kyung , Kim Song Hee , Auh Joong Hyuck , Pai Hyun-Sook
Published: February 2015

Myo-inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphate (InsP6), also known as phytic acid, accumulates in large quantities in plant seeds, serving as a phosphorus reservoir, but is an animal antinutrient and an important source of water pollution. Here, we report that Gle1 (GLFG lethal 1) in conjunction with InsP6 functions as an activator of the ATPase/RNA helicase LOS4 (low expression of osmotically responsive genes 4), which is involved in mRNA export in plants, supporting the Gle1-InsP6-Dbp5 (LOS4 homolog) paradigm proposed in yeast. Interestingly, plant Gle1 proteins have modifications in several key residues of the InsP6 binding pocket, which reduce the basicity of the surface charge. Arabidopsis thaliana Gle1 variants containing mutations that increase the basic charge of the InsP6 binding surface show increased sensitivity to InsP6 concentrations for the stimulation of LOS4 ATPase activity in vitro. Expression of the Gle1 variants with enhanced InsP6 sensitivity rescues the mRNA export defect of the ipk1 (inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase) InsP6-deficient mutant and, furthermore, significantly improves vegetative growth, seed yield, and seed performance of the mutant. These results suggest that Gle1 is an important factor responsible for mediating InsP6 functions in plant growth and reproduction and that Gle1 variants with increased InsP6 sensitivity may be useful for engineering high-yielding low-phytate crops.
Epigenetic Basis of Morphological Variation and Phenotypic Plasticity inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kooke Rik , Johannes Frank , Wardenaar René , Becker Frank , Etcheverry Mathilde , Colot Vincent , Vreugdenhil Dick , Keurentjes Joost J.B.
Published: February 2015

Epigenetics is receiving growing attention in the plant science community. Epigenetic modifications are thought to play a particularly important role in fluctuating environments. It is hypothesized that epigenetics contributes to plant phenotypic plasticity because epigenetic modifications, in contrast to DNA sequence variation, are more likely to be reversible. The population of decrease in DNA methylation 1-2 (ddm1-2)-derived epigenetic recombinant inbred lines (epiRILs) in Arabidopsis thaliana is well suited for studying this hypothesis, as DNA methylation differences are maximized and DNA sequence variation is minimized. Here, we report on the extensive heritable epigenetic variation in plant growth and morphology in neutral and saline conditions detected among the epiRILs. Plant performance, in terms of branching and leaf area, was both reduced and enhanced by different quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in the ddm1-2 inherited epigenotypes. The variation in plasticity associated significantly with certain genomic regions in which the ddm1-2 inherited epigenotypes caused an increased sensitivity to environmental changes, probably due to impaired genetic regulation in the epiRILs. Many of the QTLs for morphology and plasticity overlapped, suggesting major pleiotropic effects. These findings indicate that epigenetics contributes substantially to variation in plant growth, morphology, and plasticity, especially under stress conditions.
Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games and national pride
Authors: Leng H. K. , Kuo T. Y. , Baysa-Pee Grain , Tay Josephine
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– Singapore hosted the inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2010. Prior studies have shown that a country hosting a major sports event can raise the level of national pride among its citizens. The purpose of this paper is to examine the change in national pride among spectators and non-spectators following the hosting of the YOG.

Design/methodology/approach

– A longitudinal research design was employed in this study. Surveys using the General National Pride Scale to measure the level of national pride were conducted two months before and after the YOG.

Findings

– Using pairedt-tests, the results showed that there was a significant increase in the level of national pride among non-spectators.

Research limitations/implications

– The research concurs with earlier research that hosting a major sports event can increase the level of national pride in the population.

Practical implications

– From an application standpoint, this research suggests that in planning major sports events, the government should recognise that such events can increase the level of national pride even among those who have expressed no interest in the sports events.

Social implications

– National pride can be fostered through the hosting of major sports events.

Originality/value

– This study demonstrates that in hosting a major sports event, there is an increase in national pride even among non-spectators and those who have no interest in the event.
Performance of Lubricated Rolling/Sliding Concentrated Contacts With Surface Textures: A Review
Authors: Sudeep U. , Tandon N. , Pandey R. K.
Published: February 2015

Benefits of surface textures for improving the performance behaviors of tribo-contacts are being explored and established by the investigators across the globe. But the consolidated information of findings of such explorations are spread. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to summarize the information available related to the preparation of surface textures and performance outcomes in the presence of surface textures at the concentrated contacts. Mainly, recent research findings and practices followed for the study of friction, wear, lubrication, contact fatigue, vibration, and noise at the generic concentrated contacts in presence of surface textures are reviewed for current status of research in the area and outlining the future prospects.
Dynamic Leakage Analysis of Noncontacting Finger Seals Based on Dynamic Model
Authors: Du Kaibing , Li Yongjian , Suo Shuangfu , Wang Yuming
Published: February 2015

Noncontacting finger seals are new compliant seal in gas turbine engine sealing technology. Their potential hydrodynamic and hydrostatic lifting capabilities make them preferable to brush seals and contacting finger seals. The work concerns the mechanism of dynamic leakage of noncontacting finger seal, and a novel dynamic leakage analysis model is proposed. The model combines seal dynamic analysis and seal leakage analysis together to estimate seal dynamic performance through seal leakage. The nature of dynamic leakage performance affected by the change of seal–rotor clearance is revealed. Dynamic leakage increasing is mainly affected by ratio of friction force to finger stiffness, finger mass natural frequency, and rotor excitation amplitude. Results show that the leakage increasing caused by the rotor eccentricity is inevitable. In the design optimization of the noncontacting finger seal, the ratio of friction force to finger stiffness and the rotor excitation should be as small as possible, and the finger natural frequency should be as large as possible.
The Effects of Training Volume and Repetition Distance on Session Rating of Perceived Exertion and Internal Load in Swimmers
Authors: Barroso Renato , Salgueiro Diego F. , do Carmo Everton C. , Nakamura Fábio Y.
Published: February 2015

Purpose:

To assess swimmers’ session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) after standardized sets of interval swimming training performed at the same relative intensity but with different total volume and repetition distance.

Methods:

Thirteen moderately trained swimmers (21.1 ± 1.1 y, 178 ± 6 cm, 74.1 ± 8.3 kg, 100-m freestyle 60.2 ± 2.9 s) performed 4 standardized sets (10 × 100-m, 20 × 100-m, 10 × 200-m, and 5 × 400-m) at the same relative intensity (ie, critical speed), and 1 coach (age 31 y, 7 y coaching experience) rated their efforts. Swimmers’ sRPE was assessed 30 min after the training session. Coach sRPE was collected before each training session. Internal load was calculated by multiplying sRPE by session duration.

Results:

When bouts with the same repetition distance and different volumes (10 × 100-m vs 20 × 100-m) are compared, sRPE and internal load are higher in 20 × 100-m bouts. When maintaining constant volume, sRPE and internal load (20 × 100-m, 10 × 200-m, and 5 × 400-m) are higher only in 5 × 400-m bouts. The coach’s and swimmers’ sRPE differed in 10 × 200-m and 5 × 400-m.

Conclusions:

These results indicate that sRPE in swimming is affected not only by intensity but also by volume and repetition distance. In addition, swimmers’ and the coach’s sRPE were different when longer repetition distances were used during training sessions. Therefore, care should be taken when prescribing swimming sessions with longer volume and/or longer repetition distances.
Factors Influencing Perception of Effort (Session Rating of Perceived Exertion) During Elite Soccer Training
Authors: Gaudino Paolo , Iaia F. Marcello , Strudwick Anthony J. , Hawkins Richard D. , Alberti Giampietro , Atkinson Greg , Gregson Warren
Published: February 2015

Purpose:

The aim of the current study was to identify the external-training-load markers that are most influential on session rating of perceived exertion (RPE) of training load (RPE-TL) during elite soccer training.

Methods:

Twenty-two elite players competing in the English Premier League were monitored. Training-load data (RPE and 10-Hz GPS integrated with a 100-Hz accelerometer) were collected during 1892 individual training sessions over an entire in-season competitive period. Expert knowledge and a collinearity r < .5 were used initially to select the external training variables for the final analysis. A multivariateadjusted within-subjects model was employed to quantify the correlations of RPE and RPE-TL (RPE × duration) with various measures of external training intensity and training load.

Results:

Total high-speed-running (HSR; >14.4 km/h) distance and number of impacts and accelerations >3 m/s2 remained in the final multivariate model (P < .001). The adjusted correlations with RPE were r = .14, r = .09, and r = .25 for HSR, impacts, and accelerations, respectively. For RPE-TL, the correlations were r = .11, r = .45, and r = .37, respectively.

Conclusions:

The external-load measures that were found to be moderately predictive of RPE-TL in soccer training were HSR distance and the number of impacts and accelerations. These findings provide new evidence to support the use of RPE-TL as a global measure of training load in elite soccer. Furthermore, understanding the influence of characteristics affecting RPE-TL may help coaches and practitioners enhance training prescription and athlete monitoring.
Dietary Habits and Weight Maintenance Success in High Versus Low Exercisers in the National Weight Control Registry
Authors: Catenacci Victoria Anne , Odgen Lorraine , Phelan Suzanne , Thomas J. Graham , Hill James , Wing Rena R. , Wyatt Holly
Published: February 2015

Background:

The National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) was established to examine characteristics of successful weight loss maintainers. This study compares the diet and behavioral characteristics and weight regain trajectories of NWCR members with differing physical activity (PA) levels at baseline.

Methods:

Participants (n = 3591) were divided into 4 levels of self-reported PA at registry entry (< 1000, 1000 to < 2250, 2250 to < 3500, and ≥ 3500 kcals/week). We compared self-reported energy intake (EI), macronutrient composition, eating behaviors (dietary restraint, hunger, and disinhibition), weight loss maintenance strategies, and 3 year weight regain between these 4 activity groups.

Results:

Those with the highest PA at registry entry had lost the most weight, and reported lower fat intake, more dietary restraint, and greater reliance on several specific dietary strategies to maintain weight loss. Those in the lowest PA category maintained weight loss despite low levels of PA and without greater reliance on dietary strategies. There were no differences in odds of weight regain at year 3 between PA groups.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that there is not a “one size fits all strategy” for successful weight loss maintenance and that weight loss maintenance may require the use of more strategies by some individuals than others.
An Evaluation of a College Exercise Leader Program: Using Exercise Science Students as Advocates for Behavior Modification
Authors: Armstrong Shelley Nicole , Henderson Daniel R. , Williams Brian M. , Burcin Michelle M.
Published: February 2015

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a college’s exercise leadership program, which was developed to help students, faculty and staff implement behavior changes necessary to begin and maintain a comprehensive exercise program.

Methods:

From 2006–2011, a total 66 subjects were recruited and each was assigned to a student exercise leader. Based on comprehensive baseline assessments, each student designed an individualized exercise program for his/her subject. At program completion, the subjects were reassessed.

Results:

Paired t tests were used to find significant statistical changes (P < .05) among the fitness components. Significant changes as a function of the 6-week exercise program were observed in body weight, body fat percentage, waist circumference, 1-mile walk time, sit-ups, push-ups, and trunk flexion.

Conclusions:

Getting started is the most difficult step, but beginning an exercise program has immediate benefits. Institutions of higher education are addressing issues of wellness as a means for increasing graduation, retention, and productivity rates among their campus constituents. These efforts are part of a collaborative effort initiated by the American College Health Association known as Healthy Campus 2020. The findings from this study have a direct impact on programmatic efforts.
Health Characteristics and Sedentary Behavior Impact on Prostate-Specific Antigen Levels in a National U.S. Sample
Authors: Loprinzi Paul D. , Kohli Manish
Published: February 2015

Objective:

Independent of previously recognized clinical factors influencing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels (eg, age and race-ethnicity), sedentary behavior has recently been reported to be associated with higher PSA measurements. The extent of interaction of putative clinical factors with sedentary behavior and their impact on PSA levels is unknown. We examined the interaction of previously known PSA influencing demographic patient characteristics with patient sedentary behavior on PSA levels.

Methods:

Data from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used. Sedentary behavior was objectively measured using an accelerometer in 1690 participants who were included in the analytic sample. Multivariate linear regression analysis across potential clinical and biological modifiers of PSA levels were used to examine the association between sedentary behavior and PSA levels.

Results:

After controlling for covariates, a positive association between sedentary behavior and PSA was detected among distinctive patient groups, including non-Hispanic whites, overweight/obese subjects, hypertensive participants, and participants with evidence of diabetes and those reported to have benign prostate hypertrophy.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that patients with distinct clinical characteristics engaging in sedentary lifestyles are likely to have higher PSA levels.
An Investigation of Attentional Foci and their Temporal Patterns: A Naturalistic Study in Expert Figure Skaters
Authors: Bernier Marjorie , Trottier Christiane , Thienot Emilie , Fournier Jean
Published: February 2015

This study aimed to explore attentional foci and their temporal patterns in expert skaters in real competition situations. Individual self-confrontation interviews were held with 8 expert figure skaters while they watched their videotaped program performed in official competitions. Qualitative data analysis revealed that skaters used a substantial number of foci, which were classified by content and characteristics. Event listing was used to display the patterns of foci over time, revealing that skaters used distinct processes to prepare for, perform, and evaluate different program elements. These results highlighted the great flexibility and variability of attentional focus, according to circumstantial factors.
Why Do Athletes Remain Committed to Sport After Severe Injury? An Examination of the Sport Commitment Model
Authors: Iñigo Melissa Mae , Podlog Leslie , Hall Morgan S.
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine athletes’ sources of commitment to return to sport following a severe injury using the Sport Commitment Model (Scanlan, Carpenter, Schmidt, Simons, & Keeler, 1993). To address this aim, ten varsity athletes from the University of the Philippines Diliman were interviewed following protocols outlined in the Scanlan Collaborative Interview Method (SCIM; Scanlan, Russell, Wilson, & Scanlan, 2003a). Results indicate that sport enjoyment, valuable opportunities, personal investments, social constraints, and social support were salient sources of commitment, while other priorities had either a neutral or positive effect on commitment. Furthermore, additional constructs were identified, in particular, wanting to be the best, self-affirmation, and contractual obligations. These merit further investigation and possible inclusion in the SCM. Findings are discussed in relation to previous research and practical implications are offered.
Activation of TRPV1 channels inhibits mechanosensitive Piezo channel activity by depleting membrane phosphoinositides
Authors: Borbiro Istvan , Badheka Doreen , Rohacs Tibor
Published: February 2015

Mechanosensitive Piezo channels involved in pain signaling need specific membrane phosphoinositides for activity.
Spicing up the sensation of stretch: TRPV1 controls mechanosensitive Piezo channels
Authors: Altier Christophe
Published: February 2015

Phosphoinositide abundance regulates mechanosensitive Piezo channel activity.
Finding the decretin hormone
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: February 2015

Limostatin in flies (NMU in mammals) is the long-sought hormone that decreases insulin secretion.
fMRI in analgesic drug discovery
Authors: Wager Tor D. , Woo Choong-Wan
Published: February 2015

Functional magnetic resonance imaging offers an unprecedented opportunity to evaluate and compare drug effects on human brain activity and to provide a systems-level prediction of how drugs for chronic pain affect the brain, thus accelerating drug discovery and repurposing.
Normalization of CD4
+
T cell metabolism reverses lupus
Authors: Yin Yiming , Choi Seung-Chul , Xu Zhiwei , Perry Daniel J. , Seay Howard , Croker Byron P. , Sobel Eric S. , Brusko Todd M. , Morel Laurence
Published: February 2015

Systemic lupus erythematosus is associated with enhanced CD4
+
T cell metabolism and can be reversed by metabolic modulators.
Intraoperative brain cancer detection with Raman spectroscopy in humans
Authors: Jermyn Michael , Mok Kelvin , Mercier Jeanne , Desroches Joannie , Pichette Julien , Saint-Arnaud Karl , Bernstein Liane , Guiot Marie-Christine , Petrecca Kevin , Leblond Frederic
Published: February 2015

A handheld Raman spectroscopy probe enabled detection of invasive brain cancer intraoperatively in patients with grade 2 to 4 gliomas.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Chryseobacterium oranimense, a Colistin-Resistant Bacterium Isolated from a Cystic Fibrosis Patient in France
Authors: Sharma Poonam , Gupta Sushim Kumar , Diene Seydina M. , Rolain Jean-Marc
Published: February 2015

For the first time, we report the whole-genome sequence analysis ofChryseobacterium oranimenseG311, a multidrug-resistant bacterium, from a cystic fibrosis patient in France, including resistance to colistin. Whole-genome sequencing ofC. oranimenseG311 was performed using Ion Torrent PGM, and RAST, the EMBL-EBI server, and the Antibiotic Resistance Gene-ANNOTation (ARG-ANNOT) database were used for annotation of all genes, including antibiotic resistance (AR) genes. General features of theC. oranimenseG311 draft genome were compared to the other available genomes ofChryseobacterium gleumandChryseobacteriumsp. strain CF314.C. oranimenseG311 was found to be resistant to all β-lactams, including imipenem, and to colistin. The genome size ofC. oranimenseG311 is 4,457,049 bp in length, with 37.70% GC content. We found 27 AR genes in the genome, including β-lactamase genes which showed little similarity to the known β-lactamase genes and could likely be novel. We found the type I polyketide synthase operon followed by a zeaxanthin glycosyltransferase gene in the genome, which could impart the yellow pigmentation of the isolate. We located the O-antigen biosynthesis cluster, and we also discovered a novel capsular polysaccharide biosynthesis cluster. We also found known mutations in the orthologs of thepmrA(E8D),pmrB(L208F and P360Q), andlpxA(G68D) genes. We speculate that the presence of the capsular cluster and mutations in these genes could explain the resistance of this bacterium to colistin. We demonstrate that whole-genome sequencing was successfully applied to decipher the resistome of a multidrug resistance bacterium associated with cystic fibrosis patients.
Multicenter Evaluation of MIC Distributions for Epidemiologic Cutoff Value Definition To Detect Amphotericin B, Posaconazole, and Itraconazole Resistance among the Most Clinically Relevant Species of Mucorales
Authors: Espinel-Ingroff A. , Chakrabarti A. , Chowdhary A. , Cordoba S. , Dannaoui E. , Dufresne P. , Fothergill A. , Ghannoum M. , Gonzalez G. M. , Guarro J. , Kidd S. , Lass-Flörl C. , Meis J. F. , Pelaez T. , Tortorano A. M. , Turnidge J.
Published: February 2015

Clinical breakpoints (CBPs) have not been established for the
Mucorales
and any antifungal agent. In lieu of CBPs, epidemiologic cutoff values (ECVs) are proposed for amphotericin B, posaconazole, and itraconazole and four
Mucorales
species. Wild-type (WT) MIC distributions (organisms in a species-drug combination with no detectable acquired resistance mechanisms) were defined with available pooled CLSI MICs from 14 laboratories (Argentina, Australia, Canada, Europe, India, Mexico, and the United States) as follows: 10
Apophysomyces variabilis
, 32
Cunninghamella bertholletiae
, 136
Lichtheimia corymbifera
, 10
Mucor indicus
, 123
M. circinelloides
, 19
M. ramosissimus
, 349
Rhizopus arrhizus
, 146
R. microsporus
, 33
Rhizomucor pusillus
, and 36
Syncephalastrum racemosum
isolates. CLSI broth microdilution MICs were aggregated for the analyses. ECVs comprising ≥95% and ≥97.5% of the modeled populations were as follows: amphotericin B ECVs for
L. corymbifera
were 1 and 2 μg/ml, those for
M. circinelloides
were 1 and 2 μg/ml, those for
R. arrhizus
were 2 and 4 μg/ml, and those for
R. microsporus
were 2 and 2 μg/ml, respectively; posaconazole ECVs for
L. corymbifera
were 1 and 2, those for
M. circinelloides
were 4 and 4, those for
R. arrhizus
were 1 and 2, and those for
R. microsporus
were 1 and 2, respectively; both itraconazole ECVs for
R. arrhizus
were 2 μg/ml. ECVs may aid in detecting emerging resistance or isolates with reduced susceptibility (non-WT MICs) to the agents evaluated.
Genomes of PlanktonicAcidimicrobiales: Widening Horizons for MarineActinobacteriaby Metagenomics
Authors: Mizuno Carolina Megumi , Rodriguez-Valera Francisco , Ghai Rohit
Published: February 2015

The genomes of four novel marineActinobacteriahave been assembled from large metagenomic data sets derived from the Mediterranean deep chlorophyll maximum (DCM). These are the first marine representatives belonging to the orderAcidimicrobialesand only the second group of planktonic marineActinobacteriato be described. Their streamlined genomes and photoheterotrophic lifestyle suggest that they are planktonic, free-living microbes. A novel rhodopsin clade, acidirhodopsins, related to freshwater actinorhodopsins, was found in these organisms. Their genomes suggest a capacity to assimilate C2 compounds, some using the glyoxylate bypass and others with the ethylmalonyl-coenzyme A (CoA) pathway. They are also able to derive energy from dimethylsulfopropionate (DMSP), sulfonate, and carbon monoxide oxidation, all commonly available in the marine habitat. These organisms appear to be prevalent in the deep photic zone at or around the DCM. The presence of sister clades to the marineAcidimicrobialesin freshwater aquatic habitats provides a new example of marine-freshwater transitions with potential evolutionary insights.

IMPORTANCEDespite several studies showing the importance and abundance of planktonicActinobacteriain the marine habitat, a representative genome was only recently described. In order to expand the genomic repertoire of marineActinobacteria, we describe here the firstAcidimicrobidaegenomes of marine origin and provide insights about their ecology. They display metabolic versatility in the acquisition of carbon and appear capable of utilizing diverse sources of energy. One of the genomes harbors a new kind of rhodopsin related to the actinorhodopsin clade of freshwater origin that is widespread in the oceans. Our data also support their preference to inhabit the deep chlorophyll maximum and the deep photic zone. This work contributes to the perception of marine actinobacterial groups as important players in the marine environment with distinct and important contributions to nutrient cycling in the oceans.
Systems-Based Analysis of the
Sarcocystis neurona
Genome Identifies Pathways That Contribute to a Heteroxenous Life Cycle
Authors: Blazejewski Tomasz , Nursimulu Nirvana , Pszenny Viviana , Dangoudoubiyam Sriveny , Namasivayam Sivaranjani , Chiasson Melissa A. , Chessman Kyle , Tonkin Michelle , Swapna Lakshmipuram S. , Hung Stacy S. , Bridgers Joshua , Ricklefs Stacy M. , Boulanger Martin J. , Dubey Jitender P. , Porcella Stephen F. , Kissinger Jessica C. , Howe Daniel K. , Grigg Michael E. , Parkinson John
Published: February 2015

Sarcocystis neurona
is a member of the coccidia, a clade of single-celled parasites of medical and veterinary importance including
Eimeria
,
Sarcocystis
,
Neospora
, and Toxoplasma. Unlike
Eimeria
, a single-host enteric pathogen,
Sarcocystis
,
Neospora
, and Toxoplasma are two-host parasites that infect and produce infectious tissue cysts in a wide range of intermediate hosts. As a genus,
Sarcocystis
is one of the most successful protozoan parasites; all vertebrates, including birds, reptiles, fish, and mammals are hosts to at least one
Sarcocystis
species. Here we sequenced
Sarcocystis neurona
, the causal agent of fatal equine protozoal myeloencephalitis. The S. neurona genome is 127 Mbp, more than twice the size of other sequenced coccidian genomes. Comparative analyses identified conservation of the invasion machinery among the coccidia. However, many dense-granule and rhoptry kinase genes, responsible for altering host effector pathways in Toxoplasma and
Neospora
, are absent from S. neurona. Further, S. neurona has a divergent repertoire of SRS proteins, previously implicated in tissue cyst formation in Toxoplasma. Systems-based analyses identified a series of metabolic innovations, including the ability to exploit alternative sources of energy. Finally, we present an S. neurona model detailing conserved molecular innovations that promote the transition from a purely enteric lifestyle (
Eimeria
) to a heteroxenous parasite capable of infecting a wide range of intermediate hosts.

IMPORTANCE
Sarcocystis neurona
is a member of the coccidia, a clade of single-celled apicomplexan parasites responsible for major economic and health care burdens worldwide. A cousin of Plasmodium, Cryptosporidium,
Theileria
, and
Eimeria
,
Sarcocystis
is one of the most successful parasite genera; it is capable of infecting all vertebrates (fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals—including humans). The past decade has witnessed an increasing number of human outbreaks of clinical significance associated with acute sarcocystosis. Among
Sarcocystis
species, S. neurona has a wide host range and causes fatal encephalitis in horses, marine mammals, and several other mammals. To provide insights into the transition from a purely enteric parasite (e.g.,
Eimeria
) to one that forms tissue cysts (Toxoplasma), we present the first genome sequence of S. neurona. Comparisons with other coccidian genomes highlight the molecular innovations that drive its distinct life cycle strategies.
Measles Fusion Machinery Is Dysregulated in Neuropathogenic Variants
Authors: Jurgens Eric M. , Mathieu Cyrille , Palermo Laura M. , Hardie Diana , Horvat Branka , Moscona Anne , Porotto Matteo
Published: February 2015

Paramyxoviruses, including the human pathogen measles virus (MV), enter host cells by fusing their viral envelope with the target cell membrane. This fusion process is driven by the concerted actions of the two viral envelope glycoproteins, the receptor binding protein (hemagglutinin [H]) and the fusion (F) protein. H attaches to specific proteinaceous receptors on host cells; once the receptor engages, H activates F to directly mediate lipid bilayer fusion during entry. In a recent MV outbreak in South Africa, several HIV-positive people died of MV central nervous system (CNS) infection. We analyzed the virus sequences from these patients and found that specific intrahost evolution of the F protein had occurred and resulted in viruses that are “CNS adapted.” A mutation in F of the CNS-adapted virus (a leucine-to-tryptophan change present at position 454) allows it to promote fusion with less dependence on engagement of H by the two known wild-type (wt) MV cellular receptors. This F protein is activated independently of H or the receptor and has reduced thermal stability and increased fusion activity compared to those of the corresponding wt F. These functional effects are the result of the single L454W mutation in F. We hypothesize that in the absence of effective cellular immunity, such as HIV infection, MV variants bearing altered fusion machinery that enabled efficient spread in the CNS underwent positive selection.

IMPORTANCE
Measles virus has become a concern in the United States and Europe due to recent outbreaks and continues to be a significant global problem. While live immunization is available, there are no effective therapies or prophylactics to combat measles infection in unprotected people. Additionally, vaccination does not adequately protect immunocompromised people, who are vulnerable to the more severe CNS manifestations of disease. We found that strains isolated from patients with measles virus infection of the CNS have fusion properties different from those of strains previously isolated from patients without CNS involvement. Specifically, the viral entry machinery is more active and the virus can spread, even in the absence of H. Our findings are consistent with an intrahost evolution of the fusion machinery that leads to neuropathogenic MV variants.
Long-term effects of bullying
Authors: Wolke Dieter , Lereya Suzet Tanya
Published: February 2015

Bullying is the systematic abuse of power and is defined as aggressive behaviour or intentional harm-doing by peers that is carried out repeatedly and involves an imbalance of power. Being bullied is still often wrongly considered as a ‘normal rite of passage’. This review considers the importance of bullying as a major risk factor for poor physical and mental health and reduced adaptation to adult roles including forming lasting relationships, integrating into work and being economically independent. Bullying by peers has been mostly ignored by health professionals but should be considered as a significant risk factor and safeguarding issue.
Management of paediatric spontaneous pneumothorax: a multicentre retrospective case series
Authors: Robinson Paul D , Blackburn Carol , Babl Franz E , Gamage Lalith , Schutz Jacquie , Nogajski Rebecca , Dalziel Stuart , Donald Colin B , Druda Dino , Krieser David , Neutze Jocelyn , Acworth Jason , Lee Mark , Ngo Peter K
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Paediatric guidelines are lacking for management of spontaneous pneumothorax. Adult patient-focused guidelines (British Thoracic Society 2003 and 2010) introduced aspiration as first-line intervention for primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) and small secondary spontaneous pneumothoraces (SSP). Paediatric practice is unclear, and evidence for aspiration success rates is urgently required to develop paediatric-specific recommendations.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of PSP and SSP management at nine paediatric emergency departments across Australia and New Zealand (2003–2010) to compare PSP and SSP management.

Results

219 episodes of spontaneous pneumothorax occurred in 162 children (median age 15 years, 71% male); 155 PSP episodes in 120 children and 64 SSP episodes in 42 children. Intervention in PSP vs SSP episodes occurred in 55% (95% CI 47% to 62%) vs 70% (60% to 79%), p<0.05. An intercostal chest catheter (ICC) was used in 104/219 (47%) episodes. Aspiration was used in more PSP than in SSP episodes with interventions (27% (18% to 37%) vs 9% (3% to 21%), p<0.05). Aspiration success was 52% (33% to 70%) overall and not significantly different between PSP and SSP. Aspiration success was greater in small vs large pneumothoraces (80% (48% to 95%) vs 33% (14% to 61%), p=0.01). Small-bore ICCs were used in 40% of ICCs and usage increased during the study.

Conclusions

In this descriptive study of pneumothorax management, PSP and SSP management did not differ and ICC insertion was the continuing preferred intervention. Overall success of aspiration was lower than reported results for adults, although success was greater for small than for large pneumothoraces. Paediatric prospective studies are urgently required to determine optimal paediatric interventional management strategies.
Multiple cerebral aneurysms in a patient with cardiac myxoma: what to do?
Authors: Sveinsson Olafur , Herrman Lars
Published: February 2015

Cardiac myxomas are a very uncommon cause of cerebral aneurysms. We present a case of a young woman with neurological symptoms attributed to small cortical infarctions and multiple cerebral aneurysms, caused by a cardiac myxoma.
Sex-dependent and body weight-dependent associations between environmental PAHs exposure and insulin resistance: Korean urban elderly panel
Authors: Choi Yoon-Hyeong , Kim Jin Hee , Hong Yun-Chul
Published: February 2015

Background

The prevalence of metabolic diseases rises rapidly with an ageing population. Recent studies suggest the potential involvement of environmental chemicals in insulin resistance (IR) that plays a core role in the development of metabolic diseases. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous components of outdoor and indoor air pollution. The influence of PAHs on IR may differ depending on sex and weight.

Objectives

We examined the association between exposure to environmental PAHs and IR in Korean urban elderly adults controlling for major risk factors that contribute to an increase in IR.

Methods

Between 2008 and 2010, PAH metabolite levels (urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP)) and the homoeostatic model assessment index (HOMA-IR) were repeatedly measured in 502 adults aged ≥60 years. Linear mixed effect models were fit to evaluate the associations of 1-OHP concentration with HOMA-IR. Subgroups were modelled by sex and weight.

Results

After adjusting for sociodemographics, air pollution and metabolic disease status, the highest (vs lowest) quartile of 1-OHP was associated with an 0.57 (95% CI 0.10 to 1.04) increase in the HOMA-IR score (p trend=0.037). When stratified by sex, women presented a significantly dose-dependent trend of 1-OHP with HOMA-IR (p trend=0.013), whereas no association was observed in men (p trend=0.904). When further stratified by weight (body mass index ≥25 vs <25 kg/m2), a significant association was found only in overweight women (p trend=0.023).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that environmental exposure to PAHs is associated with increased IR in elderly adults and that the association may be limited to overweight women.
Biobank research, informed consent and society. Towards a new alliance?
Authors: D'Abramo Flavio
Published: February 2015

With the rise of -omics disciplines and biobank research, personal data and biosamples crossing national borders pose new ethical questions. In this article, informed consent, as originally conceived, is shown as not being sufficient to address aims of research and interests of patients any more. Therefore the author has, after having scrutinised issues in biobanking, sketched a model of dynamic consent and a manner of scrutinising ethical issues through empirical data.
Hydrotechnical advances in Canadian river ice science and engineering during the past 35 years
Authors: Beltaos S. , Burrell B.C.
Published: February 2015

Greater opportunity now exists compared to 35 years ago for civil engineers to apply river ice knowledge to practical problems of planning, designing, and operating hydro-power facilities, water intakes, bridges, and other infrastructure along ice-covered rivers. This is due to major advancements made during this period in understanding the physical processes of river ice formation, growth and breakup, in developing instrumentation for acquisition of information on winter environments, and in developing numerical modelling tools. An increasing number of journal articles, as well as papers presented at the river ice workshops of the CGU Committee on River Ice Processes and the Environment (CRIPE) and the ice symposia of the International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR) attest to the advancement in river ice science and engineering knowledge that has occurred during the past 35 years. This paper reviews the developments in river ice science and engineering from a Canadian perspective and briefly discusses future directions.
Structural changes in protected forests in Sweden: implications for conservation functionality
Authors: Hedwall Per-Ola , Mikusiński Grzegorz
Published: February 2015

Protected forest areas (PFAs) are key features of biodiversity conservation, and knowledge about long-term development is crucial in evaluating their efficiency and management needs. Longitudinal data on forest structure in PFAs is uncommon and often from small areas. Here we use data from the Swedish National Forest Inventory to study changes in more than 750 000 ha of PFAs over 60 years. Structures important for biodiversity, e.g., number of large trees and the volume of hard deadwood, including both standing and down wood, have more than doubled. The initial volume of deadwood, however, was very low. The overall tree species composition was stable over time, and only among the largest trees were there indications of a shift towards the late successional Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.). Deadwood increased independent of species, size of wood, and site characteristics. This increase was positively related to the volume of living trees and forest age. We conclude that Swedish PFAs, in the absence of active management and under fire suppression at the landscape scale, develop structural components that are crucial for conservation of biodiversity. However, although tree species composition appears stable, present disturbance regimes in the PFAs are considerably different from those in naturally dynamic forests, which may have implications for long-term biodiversity maintenance.
The spatial patterns of anthropogenic disturbance in the western Canadian boreal forest following oil and gas development
Authors: Pickell Paul D. , Andison David W. , Coops Nicholas C. , Gergel Sarah E. , Marshall Peter L.
Published: February 2015

Resource development can have significant consequences for the distribution of vegetation cover and for species persistence. Modelling changes to anthropogenic disturbance regimes over time can provide profound insights into the mechanisms that drive land cover change. We analyzed the spatial patterns of anthropogenic disturbance before and after a period of significant oil and gas extraction in two boreal forest subregions in Alberta, Canada. A spatially explicit model was used to map levels of anthropogenic forest crown mortality across 700 000 ha of managed forest over a 60-year period. The anthropogenic disturbance regime varied both spatially and temporally and was outside the historical range of variability characterized by regional fire regimes. Levels of live forest crown within anthropogenic disturbances declined and edge density increased following oil and gas development, whereas patch size varied regionally. In some places, anthropogenic disturbance generated profoundly novel landscapes with spatial patterns that had no historical analogue in the boreal system. The results illustrate that a shift in one sector of the economy can have dramatic outcomes on landscape structure. The results also suggest that any efforts to better align cumulative anthropogenic disturbance patterns with the historic baseline will almost certainly require a concerted and collaborative effort from all of the major stakeholders.