bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melatonin improves the meiotic maturation of porcine oocytes by reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress during in vitro maturation
Authors: Park Hyo‐Jin , Park Jae‐Young , Kim Jin‐Woo , Yang Seul‐Gi , Jung Jae‐Min , Kim Min‐Ji , Kang Man‐Jong , Cho Young Ho , Wee Gabbine , Yang Hee‐Young , Song Bong‐Seok , Kim Sun‐Uk , Koo Deog‐Bon
Published: November 2017

Under endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐stress conditions, the unfolded protein response (UPR) generates a defense mechanism in mammalian cells. The regulation of UPR signaling is important in oocyte maturation, embryo development, and female reproduction of pigs. Recent studies have shown that melatonin plays an important role as an antioxidant to improve pig oocyte maturation. However, there is no report on the role of melatonin in the regulation of UPR signaling and ER‐stress during in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidative effects of melatonin on porcine oocyte maturation through the regulation of ER‐stress and UPR signaling. We investigated the changes in the mRNA/protein expression levels of three UPR signal genes (Bip/Grp78, ATF4, P90/50ATF6, sXbp1, and CHOP) on oocytes, cumulus cells, and cumulus‐oocyte complexes (COCs) during IVM (metaphase I; 22 hours and metaphase II; 44 hours) by Western blot and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis. Treatment with the ER‐stress inducer, tunicamycin (Tm), significantly increased expression of UPR markers. Additionally, cumulus cell expansion and meiotic maturation of oocytes were reduced in COCs of Tm‐treated groups (1, 5, and 10 μg/mL). We confirmed the reducing effects of melatonin (0.1 μmol/L) on ER‐stress after pretreatment with Tm (5 μg/mL; 22 hours) in maturing COCs. Addition of melatonin (0.1 μmol/L) to Tm‐pretreated COCs recovered meiotic maturation rates and expression of most UPR markers. In conclusion, we confirmed a role for melatonin in the modulation of UPR signal pathways and reducing ER‐stress during IVM of porcine oocytes.
Editorial: Survey Research Design in Supply Chain Management: The Need for Evolution in Our Expectations
Authors: Flynn Barbara , Pagell Mark , Fugate Brian
Published: November 2017

Survey research in supply chain management has been and will continue to be an important methodology in advancing theory and practice. However, supply chain scholars have multiple, divergent views regarding what is acceptable in terms of survey design, especially regarding respondents. We build on insights and commentaries provided by JSCM associate editors to develop and share general guidelines we will use during our tenure as editors to consider the rigor of survey research designs. We also outline ways that survey designs for supply chain research can be strengthened. The aim of this editorial was to clearly communicate expectations to the JSCM community, so that authors and reviewers can be more successful in advancing the theory and practice of supply chain management.
(Re)Presenting Charlotte Brontë: Trying to know her two hundred years later
Authors: Maier Sarah E.
Published: November 2017

At the bicentennial of Charlotte Brontë, it is clear that readers have celebrated her life and texts in a variety of ways—artistic, material, biographical, literary, or fan. This special issue adds to scholarship on Brontë in an effort to create a feeling of knowing the author and with new considerations of her works by Wynne, Thormählen, and Morse.
Trends and predictors of appropriate complementary feeding practices in Nepal: An analysis of national household survey data collected between 2001 and 2014
Authors: Na Muzi , Aguayo Víctor M. , Arimond Mary , Dahal Pradiumna , Lamichhane Bikash , Pokharel Rajkumar , Chitekwe Stanley , Stewart Christine P.
Published: November 2017

There is evidence that suboptimal complementary feeding contributes to poor child growth. However, little is known about time trends and determinants of complementary feeding in Nepal, where the prevalence of child undernutrition remains unacceptably high. The objective of the study was to examine the trends and predictors of suboptimal complementary feeding in Nepali children aged 6–23 months using nationally representative data collected from 2001 to 2014. Data from the 2001, 2006, and 2011 Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys and the 2014 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey were used to estimate the prevalence, trends and predictors of four WHO‐UNICEF complementary feeding indicators: timely introduction of complementary foods (INTRO), minimum meal frequency (MMF), minimum dietary diversity (MDD), and minimum acceptable diet (MAD). We used multilevel logistic regression models to identify independent factors associated with these indicators at the individual, household and community levels. In 2014, the weighted proportion of children meeting INTRO, MMF, MDD, and MAD criteria were 72%, 82%, 36% and 35%, respectively, with modest average annual rate of increase ranging from 1% to 2%. Increasing child age, maternal education, antenatal visits, and community‐level access to health care services independently predicted increasing odds of achieving MMF, MDD, and MAD. Practices also varied by ecological zone and sociocultural group. Complementary feeding practices in Nepal have improved slowly in the past 15 years. Inequities in the risk of inappropriate complementary feeding are evident, calling for programme design and implementation to address poor feeding and malnutrition among the most vulnerable Nepali children.
Extracytoplasmic function sigma factor σD confers resistance to environmental stress by enhancing mycolate synthesis and modifying peptidoglycan structures in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Toyoda Koichi , Inui Masayuki
Published: November 2017

Mycolates are α‐branched, β‐hydroxylated, long‐chain fatty acid specifically synthesized in bacteria in the suborder Corynebacterineae of the phylum Actinobacteria. They form an outer membrane, which functions as a permeability barrier and confers pathogenic mycobacteria to resistance to antibiotics. Although the mycolate biosynthetic pathway has been intensively studied, knowledge of transcriptional regulation of genes involved in this pathway is limited. Here, we report that the extracytoplasmic function sigma factor σD is a key regulator of the mycolate synthetic genes in Corynebacterium glutamicum in the suborder. Chromatin immunoprecipitation with microarray analysis detected σD‐binding regions in the genome, establishing a consensus promoter sequence for σD recognition. The σD regulon comprised acyl‐CoA carboxylase subunits, acyl‐AMP ligase, polyketide synthase and mycolyltransferases; they were involved in mycolate synthesis. Indeed, deletion or overexpression of sigD encoding σD modified the extractable mycolate amount. Immediately downstream of sigD, rsdA encoded anti‐σD and was under the control of a σD‐dependent promoter. Another σD regulon member, l,d‐transpeptidase, conferred lysozyme resistance. Thus, σD modifies peptidoglycan cross‐linking and enhances mycolate synthesis to provide resistance to environmental stress.
Mouse models to evaluate the role of estrogen receptor α in skeletal maintenance and adaptation
Authors: Rooney Amanda M. , van der Meulen Marjolein C.H.
Published: November 2017

Estrogen signaling and mechanical loading have individual and combined effects on skeletal maintenance and adaptation. Previous work investigating estrogen signaling both in vitro and in vivo using global estrogen receptor α (ERα) gene knockout mouse models has provided information regarding the role of ERα in regulating bone mass and adaptation to mechanical stimulation. However, these models have inherent limitations that confound interpretation of the data. Therefore, recent studies have focused on mice with targeted deletion of ERα from specific bone cells and their precursors. Cell stage, tissue type, and mouse sex all influence the effects of ERα gene deletion. Lack of ERα in osteoblast progenitor and precursor cells generally affects the periosteum of female and male mice. The absence of ERα in differentiated osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts in mice generally resulted in reduced cancellous bone mass, with differing reports of the effect by animal sex and greater deficiencies in bone mass typically occurring in cancellous bone in female mice. Limited data exist for the role of bone cell–specific ERα in skeletal adaptation in vivo. Cell‐specific ERα gene knockout mice provide an excellent platform for investigating the function of ERα in regulating skeletal phenotype and response to mechanical loading by sex and age.
Improvement in low upright baroreflex sensitivity is associated with positive clinical effect of orthostatic training
Authors: Mitro Peter , Šimurda Miloš , Muller Ervin
Published: November 2017

Aim

To assess the clinical efficacy of orthostatic training (OT) and its effect on the autonomic activity.

Methods

OT was performed in 38 patients (13 males, age 36.4 ± 15.2 years). Baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), heart rate variability, and quality of life (SF 36) were assessed before and after 6 months of OT. Patients with no recurrence of syncope and reduction of the presyncope number to one‐third or less were classified as responders.

Results

Compliance to OT was low. Only 55% (38 from 69 patients) completed the training programme; 28 patients were responders (74%) and 10 patients were nonresponders. Before OT, BRS in upright position was lower in responders than in nonresponders (sitting: 8.05 ± 3.94 ms/mm Hg vs 12.51 ± 5.3 ms/mm Hg, P = 0.04, standing: 5.08 ± 2.34 ms/mm Hg vs 7.54 ± 2.16 ms/mm Hg, P = 0.02). After OT, BRS increased in responders (sitting: 8.05 ± 3.94 ms/mm Hg to 9.31 ± 4.49 ms/mm Hg, P = 0.05; standing: 5.08 ± 2.34 ms/mm Hg to 5.96 ± 2.38 ms/mm Hg, P = 0.03). No differences in supine BRS were observed. In responders, low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) power in sitting and standing positions significantly increased after OT (P < 0.05). In nonresponders, there was no significant rise in BRS, LF, and HF after OT. A significant increase in quality of life was noted in responders, but not in nonresponders.

Conclusions

OT reduced symptoms in 74% patients who trained regularly. However, the compliance to training was low. Possible mechanism of OT is reconditioning effect on baroreceptor reactivity in upright position.
Donohue syndrome: A review of literature, case series, and anesthetic considerations
Authors: Kirkwood Alana , Stuart Grant , Harding Louise
Published: November 2017

Background

Donohue syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of insulin resistance, causing a functional defect in insulin receptor function, and affecting the ability of the insulin to bind the receptor. Features include severe hyperinsulinism and fasting hypoglycemia, along with severe failure to thrive despite feeding. An accelerated fasting state results in muscle wasting, decreased subcutaneous fat, and an excess of thick skin. A reduced thoracic diameter is accentuated by increased abdominal distension, which impacts on respiratory reserve.

Cardiac disease develops early in life, with progressive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as a result of hyperinsulinism. Prognosis is poor with the majority of patients dying in infancy of sepsis. The aim of this review is to report our experience of providing anesthesia for patients with Donohue syndrome, and inform guidance for safe management of these children, based on a comprehensive literature review.

Methods

A literature search was carried out using PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library, and using the MESH search terms detailed below. Patients were identified by formal request to the department of pediatric endocrinology at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Each patient's notes were searched manually and electronically for both clinical presentation and outcome, and anesthesia records.

Discussion

There is currently no published literature relating to anesthetic management of Donohue syndrome. We report a case series of 5 patients with Donohue syndrome who have presented to our institution. This small series of children with this complex disorder demonstrates a clearly increased risk of general anesthesia. Many of the risks relate to restrictive lung disease and abdominal distension which worsens with bag valve mask ventilation and limited respiratory reserve which leads to precipitous desaturation. During induction, a spontaneously breathing technique is recommended. If required, bag valve mask ventilation should be accompanied by constant gastric aspiration. Intubation is challenging, and a difficult airway plan, including a second experienced anesthetist and ENT support, should be in place. These children are predisposed to developing cardiomyopathy and therefore at risk of cardiovascular collapse under anesthesia.
New solutions to reduce wrong route medication errors
Authors: Litman Ronald S. , Smith Victoria I. , Mainland Phoebe
Published: November 2017

Wrong route medication errors due to tubing misconnections are potentially life‐threatening complications that have been made possible by the universal use of the Luer connector. The new International Organization of Standardization standards for small bore connectors, ISO 80369 series, have been developed to reduce the risk of these types of erroneous connections. Tubing connectors for different routes of clinical application will contain differently designed connectors that are physically incompatible. However, design and manufacturing standards have progressed slowly, and clinical roll‐outs have been delayed, despite the implementation of California laws to promote their use. We are currently in a state of transition where new connectors for enteral and neuraxial use will be entering the clinical market in the next few years, and increasing use will identify additional patient safety concerns.
Long noncoding RNAs involve in resistance to Verticillium dahliae, a fungal disease in cotton
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Maojun , Li Nannan , Wang Honglei , Qiu Ping , Pei Liuling , Xu Zheng , Wang Tianyi , Gao Erlin , Liu Junxia , Liu Shiming , Hu Qin , Miao Yuhuan , Lindsey Keith , Tu Lili , Zhu Longfu , Zhang Xianlong
Published: November 2017

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have several known functions in plant development, but their possible roles in responding to plant disease remain largely unresolved. In this study, we described a comprehensive disease‐responding lncRNA profiles in defence against a cotton fungal disease Verticillium dahliae. We further revealed the conserved and specific characters of disease‐responding process between two cotton species. Conservatively for two cotton species, we found the expression dominance of induced lncRNAs in the Dt subgenome, indicating a biased induction pattern in the co‐existing subgenomes of allotetraploid cotton. Comparative analysis of lncRNA expression and their proposed functions in resistant Gossypium barbadense cv. ‘7124’ versus susceptible Gossypium hirsutum cv. ‘YZ1’ revealed their distinct disease response mechanisms. Species‐specific (LS) lncRNAs containing more SNPs displayed a fiercer inducing level postinfection than the species‐conserved (core) lncRNAs. Gene Ontology enrichment of LS lncRNAs and core lncRNAs indicates distinct roles in the process of biotic stimulus. Further functional analysis showed that two core lncRNAs, GhlncNAT‐ANX2‐ and GhlncNAT‐RLP7‐silenced seedlings, displayed an enhanced resistance towards V. dahliae and Botrytis cinerea, possibly associated with the increased expression of LOX1 and LOX2. This study represents the first characterization of lncRNAs involved in resistance to fungal disease and provides new clues to elucidate cotton disease response mechanism.
Does cross‐acclimation between drought and freezing stress persist over ecologically relevant time spans? A test using the grass Poa pratensis
Authors: Kong R. S. , Henry H. A. L.
Published: November 2017

Despite evidence that prior exposure to drought can increase subsequent plant freezing tolerance, few studies have explored such interactions over ecologically relevant time spans. We examined the combined effects of drought and subsequent freezing on tiller growth and leaf sugar concentrations in the grass, Poa pratensis.

We exposed tillers to no drought (−0.04 MPa), moderate drought (−0.19 MPa) or severe drought (−0.42 MPa) for 3 weeks in summer. Tillers were then frozen in autumn or spring at −5 °C (frost damage) or at 0 °C (control) for 3 days and harvested after a re‐growth period.

For shoot growth, there was a significant interaction between drought and autumn freezing, whereby the relative effect of freezing on growth was least for the plants previously exposed to severe drought; however, there was no significant interaction between drought and spring freezing. For root growth, there were no significant interactions between drought and freezing in either season. Leaf sugar concentrations increased significantly with drought intensity, but these effects dissipated within a month, prior to the onset of the autumn freezing treatment.

Overall, our results suggest that interactions between prior drought and subsequent freezing in P. pratensis may be most relevant in the context of autumn freezing, and despite the important role of soluble sugars in increasing both drought and freezing tolerance in this species, the retention of these compounds after drought stress does not appear to explain the occurrence of drought–frost interactions at ecologically relevant time scales.
Transcriptome analysis unravels an ethylene response factor involved in regulating fruit ripening in pear
Authors: Hao Ping‐Ping , Wang Guo‐Ming , Cheng Hai‐Yan , Ke Ya‐Qi , Qi Kai‐Jie , Gu Chao , Zhang Shao‐Ling
Published: November 2017

Ethylene response factor (ERF) has been widely studied in regulating fruit ripening in tomato, apple, banana and kiwifruit, but little is known in pear. In this study 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) treatment, an inhibitor of ethylene perception, was conducted at approximately 30 days before harvest to delay fruit ripening in a climacteric white pear cultivar Yali. Transcriptome libraries were constructed and sequenced in pre‐ripening, ripening, and 1‐MCP treated fruits. Data analysis showed that 73 candidate genes related to fruit ripening were induced by 1‐MCP, among which two were positively related, namely 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxyla oxidase and an ERF gene (designated as ACO54 and ERF24). Transient transformations in pear fruit revealed that over‐expression of ACO54 enhance transcription level of ERF24 and most ripening‐related genes. Meanwhile, over‐expression of ERF24 raises expression level of ACO54 and partially ripening‐related genes. Moreover, dual‐luciferase and yeast‐one‐hybrid assays unravel an interaction between ERF24 and the ACO54 promoter. Therefore, the ERF24 could directly regulate ACO54 expression by binding to its promoter. These results suggested that the first identified ERF24 is involved in regulating fruit ripening in Chinese white pear.
Insights into Flood‐Coping Appraisals of Protection Motivation Theory: Empirical Evidence from Germany and France
Authors: Bubeck Philip , Wouter Botzen W. J. , Laudan Jonas , Aerts Jeroen C.J.H. , Thieken Annegret H.
Published: November 2017

Protection motivation theory (PMT) has become a popular theory to explain the risk‐reducing behavior of residents against natural hazards. PMT captures the two main cognitive processes that individuals undergo when faced with a threat, namely, threat appraisal and coping appraisal. The latter describes the evaluation of possible response measures that may reduce or avert the perceived threat. Although the coping appraisal component of PMT was found to be a better predictor of protective intentions and behavior, little is known about the factors that influence individuals’ coping appraisals of natural hazards. More insight into flood‐coping appraisals of PMT, therefore, are needed to better understand the decision‐making process of individuals and to develop effective risk communication strategies. This study presents the results of two surveys among more than 1,600 flood‐prone households in Germany and France. Five hypotheses were tested using multivariate statistics regarding factors related to flood‐coping appraisals, which were derived from the PMT framework, related literature, and the literature on social vulnerability. We found that socioeconomic characteristics alone are not sufficient to explain flood‐coping appraisals. Particularly, observational learning from the social environment, such as friends and neighbors, is positively related to flood‐coping appraisals. This suggests that social norms and networks play an important role in flood‐preparedness decisions. Providing risk and coping information can also have a positive effect. Given the strong positive influence of the social environment on flood‐coping appraisals, future research should investigate how risk communication can be enhanced by making use of the observed social norms and network effects.
An Agent‐Based Model of Evolving Community Flood Risk
Authors: Tonn Gina L. , Guikema Seth D.
Published: November 2017

Although individual behavior plays a major role in community flood risk, traditional flood risk models generally do not capture information on how community policies and individual decisions impact the evolution of flood risk over time. The purpose of this study is to improve the understanding of the temporal aspects of flood risk through a combined analysis of the behavioral, engineering, and physical hazard aspects of flood risk. Additionally, the study aims to develop a new modeling approach for integrating behavior, policy, flood hazards, and engineering interventions. An agent‐based model (ABM) is used to analyze the influence of flood protection measures, individual behavior, and the occurrence of floods and near‐miss flood events on community flood risk. The ABM focuses on the following decisions and behaviors: dissemination of flood management information, installation of community flood protection, elevation of household mechanical equipment, and elevation of homes. The approach is place based, with a case study area in Fargo, North Dakota, but is focused on generalizable insights. Generally, community mitigation results in reduced future damage, and individual action, including mitigation and movement into and out of high‐risk areas, can have a significant influence on community flood risk. The results of this study provide useful insights into the interplay between individual and community actions and how it affects the evolution of flood risk. This study lends insight into priorities for future work, including the development of more in‐depth behavioral and decision rules at the individual and community level.
Can Incentives Improve Survey Data Quality in Developing Countries?: Results from a Field Experiment in India
Authors: Stecklov Guy , Weinreb Alexander , Carletto Calogero
Published: November 2017

We report results of an experiment designed to assess whether the payment of contingent incentives to respondents in Karnataka, India, impacts the quality of survey data. Of 2276 households sampled at the city block level, 934 were randomly assigned to receive a small one-time payment at the time of the survey, whereas the remaining households did not receive this incentive. We analyse the effects of incentives across a range of questions that are common in survey research in less developed countries. Our study suggests that incentives reduced unit non-response. Conditionally on participation, we also find little impact of incentives on a broad range of sociodemographic, behavioural and attitudinal questions. In contrast, we consistently find that households that received incentives reported substantially lower consumption and income levels and fewer assets. Given random assignment and very high response rates, the most plausible interpretation of this finding is that incentivizing respondents in this setting may increase their motivation to present themselves as more needy, whether to justify the current payment or to increase the chance of receiving resources in the future. Therefore, despite early indications that contingent incentives may raise response rates, the net effect on data quality must be carefully considered.
Signal Regression Models for Location, Scale and Shape with an Application to Stock Returns
Authors: Brockhaus Sarah , Fuest Andreas , Mayr Andreas , Greven Sonja
Published: November 2017

We discuss scalar-on-function regression models where all parameters of the assumed response distribution can be modelled depending on covariates. We thus combine signal regression models with generalized additive models for location, scale and shape. Our approach is motivated by a time series of stock returns, where it is of interest to model both the expectation and the variance depending on lagged response values and functional liquidity curves. We compare two fundamentally different methods for estimation, a gradient boosting and a penalized-likelihood-based approach, and address practically important points like identifiability and model choice. Estimation by a componentwise gradient boosting algorithm allows for high dimensional data settings and variable selection. Estimation by a penalized-likelihood-based approach has the advantage of directly provided statistical inference.
Acid‐base alterations in ESRD and effects of hemodialysis
Authors: Qian Qi
Published: November 2017

Acid‐base alterations in patients with kidney failure and on hemodialysis (HD) treatment contribute to (1) intradialytic hypercapnia and hypoxia, (2) hemodynamic instability and cardiac arrhythmia, (3) systemic inflammation, and (4) a number of associated electrolyte alterations including potentiating effects of hypokalemia, hypocalcemia and, chronically, soft‐tissue and vascular calcification, imparting poor prognosis and mortality. This paper discusses acid‐base regulation and pathogenesis of dysregulation in patients with kidney failure. Major organ and systemic effects of acid‐base perturbations with a specific focus on kidney failure patients on HD are emphasized, and potential mitigating strategies proposed. The high rate of HD‐related complications, specifically those that can be accounted for by rapid and steep acid‐base perturbations imposed by HD treatment, attests to the pressing need for investigations to establish a better dialysis regimen.
Low fitness is associated with metabolic risk independently of central adiposity in a cohort of 18‐year‐olds
Authors: Lätt E. , Jürimäe J. , Harro J. , Loit H.‐M. , Mäestu J.
Published: November 2017

It is unclear whether cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) remains associated with metabolic risk if controlled for central adiposity and other confounders; thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the independent effect of CRF on metabolic syndrome risk factors in relatively homogeneous age group of young adults. In this cross‐sectional study, 828 participants performed CRF test on a cycle ergometer (Wmax kg) and were categorized into sex‐specific tertiles. Continuous metabolic syndrome risk score (MetS‐score) was calculated as the sum of standardized scores of five metabolic syndrome risk factors: glucose, mean arterial pressure, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio. Low fitness group had higher values in all measured metabolic syndrome parameters, except for cholesterol parameters, compared to high fitness group. The unadjusted model indicated that CRF was negatively associated with clustered metabolic risk (β = −0.116, P = .001). After the adjustment of smoking habits, sports training participation, and waist circumference, the association between CRF and MetS‐score slightly increased (β = ‐0.126; P < .001). Low CRF was associated with increased risk (OR = 2.58 (95% CI 1.50‐4.41)) for higher MetS‐score after adjustment for potential confounders and waist circumference. The results of our study indicate that being highly fit increases the likelihood of having lower MetS‐score for approximately 2 and 2.5 times independently of central adiposity compared to average and low fitness, respectively. In conclusion, it is highly important to improve CRF through regular exercise, not focusing just on body composition in young adulthood in every weight status group.
Effective inactivation of a wide range of viruses by pasteurization
Authors: Gröner Albrecht , Broumis Connie , Fang Randel , Nowak Thomas , Popp Birgit , Schäfer Wolfram , Roth Nathan J.
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Careful selection and testing of plasma reduces the risk of blood‐borne viruses in the starting material for plasma‐derived products. Furthermore, effective measures such as pasteurization at 60°C for 10 hours have been implemented in the manufacturing process of therapeutic plasma proteins such as human albumin, coagulation factors, immunoglobulins, and enzyme inhibitors to inactivate blood‐borne viruses of concern. A comprehensive compilation of the virus reduction capacity of pasteurization is presented including the effect of stabilizers used to protect the therapeutic protein from modifications during heat treatment.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The virus inactivation kinetics of pasteurization for a broad range of viruses were evaluated in the relevant intermediates from more than 15 different plasma manufacturing processes. Studies were carried out under the routine manufacturing target variables, such as temperature and product‐specific stabilizer composition. Additional studies were also performed under robustness conditions, that is, outside production specifications.

RESULTS

The data demonstrate that pasteurization inactivates a wide range of enveloped and nonenveloped viruses of diverse physicochemical characteristics. After a maximum of 6 hours' incubation, no residual infectivity could be detected for the majority of enveloped viruses. Effective inactivation of a range of nonenveloped viruses, with the exception of nonhuman parvoviruses, was documented.

CONCLUSION

Pasteurization is a very robust and reliable virus inactivation method with a broad effectiveness against known blood‐borne pathogens and emerging or potentially emerging viruses. Pasteurization has proven itself to be a highly effective step, in combination with other complementary safety measures, toward assuring the virus safety of final product.
DNA methylation in the central and efferent limbs of the chemoreflex requires carotid body neural activity
Authors: Nanduri Jayasri , Peng Ying‐Jie , Wang Ning , Khan Shakil A. , Semenza Gregg L. , Prabhakar Nanduri R.
Published: November 2017

Key points

The mechanisms underlying long‐term (30 days) intermittent hypoxia (LT‐IH)‐evoked DNA methylation of anti‐oxidant enzyme (AOE) gene repression in the carotid body (CB) reflex pathway were examined.

LT‐IH‐treated rats showed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the CB reflex pathway.

Administration of a ROS scavenger or CB ablation blocked LT‐IH‐evoked DNA methylation and AOE gene repression in the central and efferent limbs of the CB reflex.

LT‐IH increased DNA methyltransferase (Dnmt) activity through upregulation of Dnmt1 and 3b proteins by ROS‐dependent inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) by Akt.

A pan‐Akt inhibitor prevented LT‐IH‐induced GSK3β inactivation, elevated Dnmt protein expression and activity, AOE gene methylation, sympathetic activation and hypertension.

Long‐term exposure to intermittent hypoxia (LT‐IH; 30 days), simulating blood O2 profiles during sleep apnoea, has been shown to repress anti‐oxidant enzyme (AOE) gene expression by DNA methylation in the carotid body (CB) reflex pathway, resulting in persistent elevation of plasma catecholamine levels and blood pressure. The present study examined the mechanisms by which LT‐IH induces DNA methylation. Adult rats exposed to LT‐IH showed elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the CB, nucleus tractus solitarius (nTS) and rostroventrolateral medulla (RVLM) and adrenal medulla (AM), which represent the central and efferent limbs of the CB reflex, respectively. ROS scavenger treatment during the first ten days of IH exposure prevented ROS accumulation, blocked DNA methylation, and normalized AOE gene expression, suggesting that ROS generated during the early stages of IH activate DNA methylation. CB ablation prevented the ROS accumulation, normalized AOE gene expression in the nTS, RVLM, and AM and blocked DNA methylation, suggesting that LT‐IH‐induced DNA methylation in the central and efferent limbs of the CB reflex is indirect and requires CB neural activity. LT‐IH increased DNA methyl transferase (Dnmt) activity through upregulation of Dnmt1 and 3b protein expression due to ROS‐dependent inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) by protein kinase B (Akt). Treating rats with the pan‐Akt inhibitor GSK690693 blocked the induction of Dnmt activity, Dnmt protein expression, and DNA methylation, leading to normalization of AOE gene expression as well as plasma catecholamine levels and blood pressure.
Mechanical parameters of the molecular motor myosin II determined in permeabilised fibres from slow and fast skeletal muscles of the rabbit
Authors: Percario Valentina , Boncompagni Simona , Protasi Feliciano , Pertici Irene , Pinzauti Francesca , Caremani Marco
Published: November 2017

Key points

The different performance of slow and fast muscles is mainly attributed to diversity of the myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform expressed within them.

In this study fast sarcomere‐level mechanics has been applied to Ca2+‐activated single permeabilised fibres isolated from soleus (containing the slow myosin isoform) and psoas (containing the fast myosin isoform) muscles of rabbit for a comparative definition of the mechano‐kinetics of force generation by slow and fast myosin isoforms in situ.

The stiffness and the force of the slow myosin isoform are three times smaller than those of the fast isoform, suggesting that the stiffness of the myosin motor is a determinant of the isoform‐dependent functional diversity between skeletal muscles.

These results open the question of the mechanism that can reconcile the reduced performance of the slow MHC with the higher efficiency of the slow muscle.

The skeletal muscle exhibits large functional differences depending on the myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform expressed in its molecular motor, myosin II. The differences in the mechanical features of force generation by myosin isoforms were investigated in situ by using fast sarcomere‐level mechanical methods in permeabilised fibres (sarcomere length 2.4 μm, temperature 12°C, 4% dextran T‐500) from slow (soleus, containing the MHC‐1 isoform) and fast (psoas, containing the MHC‐2X isoform) skeletal muscle of the rabbit. The stiffness of the half‐sarcomere was determined at the plateau of Ca2+‐activated isometric contractions and in rigor and analysed with a model that accounted for the filament compliance to estimate the stiffness of the myosin motor (ε). ε was 0.56 ± 0.04 and 1.70 ± 0.37 pN nm−1 for the slow and fast isoform, respectively, while the average strain per attached motor (s0) was similar (∼3.3 nm) in both isoforms. Consequently the force per motor (F0 = εs0) was three times smaller in the slow isoform than in the fast isoform (1.89 ± 0.43 versus 5.35 ± 1.51 pN). The fraction of actin‐attached motors responsible for maximum isometric force at saturating Ca2+ (T0,4.5) was 0.47 ± 0.09 in soleus fibres, 70% larger than that in psoas fibres (0.29 ± 0.08), so that F0 in slow fibres was decreased by only 53%. The lower stiffness and force of the slow myosin isoform open the question of the molecular basis of the higher efficiency of slow muscle with respect to fast muscle.
Improving Efficiency of the Tip Speed Ratio-MPPT Method for Wind Energy Systems by Using an Integral Sliding Mode Voltage Regulator
Authors: Yazıcı İrfan , Yaylacı Ersagun Kürşat
Published: November 2017

This paper aims to increase the efficiency of the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods by using an integral sliding mode voltage regulator (ISMVR). The ISMVR is applied to one of the frequently used MPPT methods called as tip speed ratio (TSR). The proposed method presents a fast and robust tracking capability. Also, there is no need to know about the parameters of the generator in order to generate the control signal. The ISMVR presents considerably simple control structure due to the fact that the authors used only the boost converter (BC) and controller parameters for the control signal. Additionally, the performances of the proposed improved TSR-MPPT method based on ISMVR are compared to the TSR-MPPT method based on conventional sliding mode voltage regulator (CSMVR) under the same conditions. The dynamic performance, robustness, and fast approximation of the offered method are proved with the simulations.
Solution processed ZnO homogeneous quasisuperlattice materials
Authors: Buckley Darragh , McNulty David , Zubialevich Vitaly , Parbrook Peter , O'Dwyer Colm
Published: November 2017

Heterogeneous multilayered oxide channel materials have enabled low temperature, high mobility thin film transistor technology by solution processing. The authors report the growth and characterization of solution-based, highly uniform and c-axis orientated zinc oxide (ZnO) single and multilayered thin films. Quasisuperlattice (QSL) metal oxide thin films are deposited by spin-coating and the structural, morphological, optical, electronic, and crystallographic properties are investigated. In this work, the authors show that uniform, coherent multilayers of ZnO can be produced from liquid precursors using an iterative coating-drying technique that shows epitaxial-like growth on SiO2, at a maximum temperature of 300 °C in air. As QSL films are grown with a greater number of constituent layers, the crystal growth direction changes from m-plane to c-plane, confirmed by x-ray and electron diffraction. The film surface is smooth for all QSLs with root mean square roughness <0.14 nm. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL) of electronic defects in the QSL structure show a dependence of defect emission on the QSL thickness, and PL mapping demonstrates that the defect signature is consistent across the QSL film in each case. XPS and valence-band analysis shown a remarkably consistent surface composition and electronic structure during the annealing process developed here.
Scattering from a quantum anapole at low energies
Authors: Whitcomb Kyle M. , Latimer David C.
Published: November 2017

In quantum field theory, the photon-fermion vertex can be described in terms of four form-factors that encode the static electromagnetic properties of the particle, namely, its charge, magnetic dipole moment, electric dipole moment, and anapole moment. For Majorana fermions, only the anapole moment can be nonzero, a consequence of the fact that these particles are their own antiparticles. Using the framework of quantum field theory, we perform a scattering calculation that probes the anapole moment with a spinless charged particle. In the limit of low momentum transfer, we confirm that the anapole can be classically likened to a point-like toroidal solenoid whose magnetic field is confined to the origin. Such a toroidal current distribution can be used to demonstrate the Aharonov-Bohm effect. We find that, in the non-relativistic limit, our scattering cross section agrees with a quantum mechanical computation of the cross section for a spinless current scattered by an infinitesimally thin toroidal solenoid. Our presentation is geared toward advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students. This work serves as an introduction to the anapole moment and also provides an example of how one can develop an understanding of a particle's electromagnetic properties in quantum field theory.
Tau Zero: In the cockpit of a Bussard ramjet
Authors: Blatter Heinz , Greber Thomas
Published: November 2017

A Bussard ramjet is a relativistic spacecraft, fueled by fusion energy of cosmic matter that is collected during the flight. We derive the equation of motion of such a spaceship for a given mass density in space and the fusion mass defect. Two ramjet engine scenarios, where the thrust for propulsion is generated by emission of photons or acceleration of matter, are outlined. As long as not all collected matter is transformed into fusion energy, mass engines are superior to photon engines. If the collected matter is stopped by the spacecraft before fusion it may not reach relativistic terminal velocities. For an ideal ramjet, where no matter is stopped for the generation of energy for propulsion, endless acceleration and relativistic velocities may be obtained such that crossing the universe in a human lifespan would be possible. A journey along one space coordinate and the smallest possible radii of curves were evaluated. The results are compared to the plots in the novel “Tau Zero” by Poul Anderson.
“All Students Are Brilliant”: A Confession of Injustice and a Call to Action
Authors: Robertson Amy D. , Elliott Leslie J. Atkins
Published: November 2017

The two of us (AR and LAE), in our teaching, research, and work with teachers, advocate for responsive teaching—an approach that seeks out and builds on the productive “seeds of science” in what our students say and do and assumes that “all students…are brilliant.” This pedagogical approach requires a commitment to listening to and intellectually empathizing with students’ scientific ideas.
You Don’t Look Like a Physicist
Authors: Santos Antonio Carlos Fontes
Published: November 2017

“You don’t look like a physicist!” “Sorry, this bus only goes to the university, Sir.” “Where are you going, sir?” “So, you are a university professor? But a substitute one, aren’t you?” “OK, you’re a professor, but do you do research?” As a person of color teaching physics in Brazil, those are some comments that I usually hear. They are consequences of stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination, which are related but different ideas. Stereotypes indicate expectations and beliefs about an individual or a group, prejudice denotes feelings, and discrimination expresses behaviors. People are likely to be astonished whenever a Black person says that he or she is a physicist. This paper aims to raise awareness of the underrepresentation of Black physics professors and researchers in Brazil and how the lack of quality high school physics education impacts Black and poor students in Brazil. Finally, some considerations on how physics education can assist minority students in overcoming social barriers that contribute to their underrepresentation are presented.
Best Practices for Administering Concept Inventories
Authors: Madsen Adrian , McKagan Sarah B. , Sayre Eleanor C.
Published: November 2017

There is a plethora of concept inventories available for faculty to use, but it is not always clear exactly why you would use these tests, or how you should administer them and interpret the results. These research-based tests about physics and astronomy concepts are valuable because they allow for standardized comparisons among institutions, instructors, or over time. In order for these comparisons to be meaningful, you should use best practices for administering the tests. In interviews with 24 physics faculty, we have identified common questions that faculty members have about concept inventories. We have written this article to address common questions from these interviews and provide a summary of best practices for administering concept inventories.
Partially Covered Lenses and Additive Color Mixing
Authors: Razpet Nada , Kranjc Tomaž
Published: November 2017

When doing experimental work of image formation by mirrors and (thin) lenses, it turns out again and again that students often have partially incorrect preconceptions about how the light emerging from an object passes through a lens and how the image is formed on a screen or directly in the eye. To check students’ prior knowledge and help get a better understanding of geometrical optics, we decided to start classes with a pre-test to assess their knowledge and understanding. Then we performed a series of experiments (to be described in the paper) with (thin) converging lenses, partially covered with either an opaque screen or with (one or more) color filters. In the end, students’ knowledge and understanding were tested again with a post-test. The main goal of the experiments was to convey to students a clearer picture about the image formation, and to help them recognize the fact that every small part of a lens participates in the formation of the whole image.
A New Look at an Old Activity: Resonance Tubes Used to Teach Resonance
Authors: Nelson Jim , Nelson Jane
Published: November 2017

There are several variations of resonance laboratory activities used to determine the speed of sound. This is not one of them. This activity uses the resonance tube idea to teach resonance, not to verify the speed of sound. Prior to this activity, the speed of sound has already been measured using computer sound-sensors and timing echoes produced in long tubes like carpet tubes. There are other methods to determine the speed of sound. Some methods are referenced at the end of this article. The students already know the speed of sound when they are confronted with data that contradict their prior knowledge. Here, the mystery is something the students solve with the help of a series of demonstrations by the instructor.
Data Collection During the Great American Eclipse
Authors: Vernier Dave
Published: November 2017

I am lucky enough (and old enough) to have seen three total eclipses. About a year ago, I became aware of the total eclipse that was coming to the United States on August 21, 2017. Because I knew how exciting a total eclipse can be, I spent a lot of time encouraging people to travel to the zone of totality if they possibly could. I also encouraged teachers to turn this event into a STEM lesson by taking data. We asked teachers to join us in collecting data during the eclipse and to share it. The people collecting these data were either teachers or former teachers (like me). Many times, the sensors were mounted with duct tape and rubber bands, but we got some great data!
Designing Efficient Self-Diagnosis Activities in the Physics Classroom
Authors: Safadi Rafi’
Published: November 2017

Self-diagnosis (SD) activities require students to self-diagnose their solutions to problems that they solved on their own. This involves identifying where they went wrong and then explaining the nature of their errors—why they went wrong—aided by some form of support. Worked examples (WEs) are often used to support students in SD activities. A WE is a step-by-step demonstration of how to solve a problem. One unresolved issue is why students fail to exploit WEs in SD exercises. Yerushalmi et al., for instance, provided students with written WEs and asked them to self-diagnose their solutions with respect to these WEs. These authors found no correlation between students’ SD performance and their subsequent problem-solving performance on transfer problems, suggesting that students had only superficially exploited the written WEs. The aim of this article is to describe a new SD activity that was developed to prompt students to effectively use written WEs when self-diagnosing, and to examine its effectiveness in advancing students’ learning in physics.