bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of compliant boundary proximity on the fundamental and subharmonic emissions from individual microbubbles
Authors: Helfield Brandon L. , Leung Ben Y. C. , Goertz David E.
Published: June 2014

The proximity of a solid-liquid boundary has been theoretically predicted to affect nonlinear microbubble emissions, but to date there has been no experimental validation of this effect. In this study, individual microbubbles (n = 15) were insonicated at f = 11 MHz as a function of offset distance from a compliant (agarose) planar boundary by employing an optical trapping apparatus. It was found that fundamental scattering increases while subharmonic scattering decreases as the microbubble approaches the boundary. Although a microbubble-boundary model can predict the qualitative trends observed for a subset of encapsulation properties, further modeling efforts are required to completely model compliant boundary-microbubble interactions.
Seismic exploration noise reduction in the Marginal Ice Zone
Authors: Tollefsen Dag , Sagen Hanne
Published: June 2014

A sonobuoy field was deployed in the Marginal Ice Zone of the Fram Strait in June 2011 to study the spatial variability of ambient noise. High noise levels observed at 10–200 Hz are attributed to distant (1400 km range) seismic exploration. The noise levels decreased with range into the ice cover; the reduction is fitted by a spreading loss model with a frequency-dependent attenuation factor less than for under-ice interior Arctic propagation. Numerical modeling predicts transmission loss of the same order as the observed noise level reduction and indicates a significant loss contribution from under-ice interaction.
We Walk the Line: An Analysis of the Problems and Possibilities of Work at the Sport Psychology-Sport Sociology Nexus
Authors: Butryn Ted M. , LaVoi Nicole M. , Kauer Kerri J. , Semerjian Tamar Z. , Waldron Jennifer J.
Published: June 2014

Over the past decade, a growing number of scholars in sport psychology and sport sociology have begun forging inter- and transdiciplinary research lines that attempt to follow Ingham, Blissmer, and Wells Davidson’s (1998) call for a coming together of the sport sociological and sport psychological imaginations. This paper presents the results of a thematic analysis of the stories of five early-to midcareer academics who have lived at/through the boundaries of these two sub disciplines of Kinesiology. Following an introduction in which we attempt to situate the two subdisciplines within the larger field of Kinesiology, we present a thematic analysis of the five individual stories, and attempt to tie them to the politicized boundaries and related spaces of tensions faced by those wishing to do the kind of interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary work advocated recently by the emerging areas of cultural sport psychology (CSP) and physical cultural studies (PCS).
Embodied Subjectivities: Intersections of Discursive and Critical Psychology With Socio-Cultural Exercise Research
Authors: Markula Pirkko
Published: June 2014

There has been a longstanding divide between the sociology and psychology of exercise despite common interests in individual subjectivity and identity construction through exercise practices. In this paper, I aim to find possible intersections for the two disciplines by using theoretical insights from discursive and critical psychology as well as sociocultural research on embodied experiences in exercise. Drawing from both psychological and sociocultural research on exercising bodies, I problematize different conceptualizations of subjectivity, identity, and power relations to critically examine interconnections between these different research traditions. I also highlight some of their theoretical limitations to suggest further theoretical readings that might enhance interdisciplinary analyses of change emanating from the microlevel of individual actions by both psychological and sociocultural research on the physically active body.
Lassa virus entry requires a trigger-induced receptor switch
Authors: Jae Lucas T. , Raaben Matthijs , Herbert Andrew S. , Kuehne Ana I. , Wirchnianski Ariel S. , Soh Timothy K. , Stubbs Sarah H. , Janssen Hans , Damme Markus , Saftig Paul , Whelan Sean P. , Dye John M. , Brummelkamp Thijn R.
Published: June 2014

How Lassa virus breaks and enters

Lassa virus, which spreads from rodents to humans, infecting about half a million people every year, can lead to deadly hemorrhagic fever. Like many viruses, Lassa virus binds to cell surface receptors. Jae
et al.
now show that to enter a cell, the virus requires a second receptor, this one inside the infected cell. This requirement sheds light on the “enigmatic resistance” of bird cells to Lassa virus observed three decades ago. Although bird cells have the cell surface receptor, the intracellular receptor cannot bind the virus, stopping it in its tracks.

Science
, this issue p.
1506
Phase-transforming electrodes
Authors: Owen John , Hector Andrew
Published: June 2014

Structural studies suggest a route to improve the performance of rechargeable batteries.

[Also see Research Article by

Liu
et al.

]
Gerald M. Edelman (1929–2014)
Authors: Tononi Giulio
Published: June 2014

A great biologist made fundamental discoveries and conceived a selectionist theory of the brain
Negative-emissions insurance
Authors: Benson Sally M.
Published: June 2014

In its April 2014 report, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recognized that reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40 to 70% by mid-century will require more than just implementing emission-free solutions. Many scenarios for stabilizing GHG concentrations that were evaluated by the panel included removing carbon dioxide (CO
2
) from the atmosphere: so-called “negative emissions” or carbon dioxide removal (CDR). Among the most promising CDR methods are reforestation, afforestation (planting new forests), and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). However, for BECCS strategies to succeed, major hurdles must be overcome.
Scripps and USC consider union, for money and prestige
Authors: Service Robert
Published: June 2014

Negotiations with university spark opposition from biomedical institute's scientists.
Free Willy? Dolphin drama riles aquaria
Authors: Grimm David
Published: June 2014

Proposal to remove captive dolphins draws fire.
Application of Immunosignatures for Diagnosis of Valley Fever
Authors: Navalkar Krupa Arun , Johnston Stephen Albert , Woodbury Neal , Galgiani John N. , Magee D. Mitchell , Chicacz Zbigniew , Stafford Phillip
Published: June 2014

Valley fever (VF) is difficult to diagnose, partly because the symptoms of VF are confounded with those of other community-acquired pneumonias. Confirmatory diagnostics detect IgM and IgG antibodies against coccidioidal antigens via immunodiffusion (ID). The false-negative rate can be as high as 50% to 70%, with 5% of symptomatic patients never showing detectable antibody levels. In this study, we tested whether the immunosignature diagnostic can resolve VF false negatives. An immunosignature is the pattern of antibody binding to random-sequence peptides on a peptide microarray. A 10,000-peptide microarray was first used to determine whether valley fever patients can be distinguished from 3 other cohorts with similar infections. After determining the VF-specific peptides, a small 96-peptide diagnostic array was created and tested. The performances of the 10,000-peptide array and the 96-peptide diagnostic array were compared to that of the ID diagnostic standard. The 10,000-peptide microarray classified the VF samples from the other 3 infections with 98% accuracy. It also classified VF false-negative patients with 100% sensitivity in a blinded test set versus 28% sensitivity for ID. The immunosignature microarray has potential for simultaneously distinguishing valley fever patients from those with other fungal or bacterial infections. The same 10,000-peptide array can diagnose VF false-negative patients with 100% sensitivity. The smaller 96-peptide diagnostic array was less specific for diagnosing false negatives. We conclude that the performance of the immunosignature diagnostic exceeds that of the existing standard, and the immunosignature can distinguish related infections and might be used in lieu of existing diagnostics.
Performance of the Liaison XL Murex HIV Ab/Ag Test on Clinical Samples Representing Current Epidemic HIV Variants
Authors: Lemee Véronique , Leoz Marie , Etienne Manuel , De Oliveira Fabienne , Plantier Jean-Christophe
Published: June 2014

Screening for HIV infection has improved since the first immunoassays. Today, diagnosis of HIV infection can be performed with fourth-generation tests that track both the patient's antibodies and HIV antigen. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the new DiaSorin Liaison XL Murex HIV Ab/Ag assay compared to another fourth-generation assay, the Abbott Architect HIV Ag/Ab Combo kit. This work was performed on a large panel of 900 samples, including negative samples (
n
= 493) and HIV-positive (
n
= 407) representatives of HIV-1 group M subtypes and circulating recombinant forms (CRFs), HIV-1 group O, and HIV-2 variants. The results highlight the high specificity (98.9%) and sensitivity (100%) of this new fourth-generation assay, which are consistent with its use for the screening and diagnosis of HIV infections with the current circulating strains.
Murine Leukemia Virus Gag Localizes to the Uropod of Migrating Primary Lymphocytes
Authors: Li Fei , Sewald Xaver , Jin Jing , Sherer Nathan M. , Mothes Walther
Published: June 2014

B and CD4+T lymphocytes are natural targets of murine leukemia virus (MLV). Migrating lymphocytes adopt a polarized morphology with a trailing edge designated the uropod. Here, we demonstrate that MLV Gag localizes to the uropod in polarized B cells and CD4+T cells. The uropod localization of MLV Gag was dependent on plasma membrane (PM) association and multimerization of Gag but independent of the viral glycoprotein Env. Basic residues in MA that are required for MLV Gag recruitment to virological synapses between HEK293 and XC cells were dispensable for uropod localization in migrating B cells. Ultrastructural studies indicated that both wild-type and basic-residue mutant Gag localized to the outer surface of the PM at the uropod. Late-domain mutant virus particles were seen at the uropod in form of budding-arrested intermediates. Finally, uropods mediated contact between MLV-infected B cells and uninfected T cells to form virological synapses. Our results suggest that MLV, not unlike HIV, accumulates at the uropod of primary lymphocytes to facilitate viral spreading through the formation of uropod-mediated cell-cell contacts.

IMPORTANCEViruses have evolved mechanisms to coordinate their assembly and budding with cell polarity to facilitate their spreading. In this study, we demonstrated that the viral determinants for MLV Gag to localize to the uropod in polarized B cells are distinct from the requirements to localize to virological synapses in transformed cell lines. Basic residues in MA that are required for the Gag localization to virological synapses between HEK293 and XC cells are dispensable for Gag localization to the uropod in primary B cells. Rather, plasma membrane association and capsid-driven multimerization of Gag are sufficient to drive MLV Gag to the uropod. MLV-laden uropods also mediate contacts between MLV-infected B cells and uninfected T cells to form virological synapses. Our results indicate that MLV accumulates at the uropod of primary lymphocytes to facilitate viral spreading through the formation of uropod-mediated cell-cell contacts.
Influenza A Virus Attenuation by Codon Deoptimization of the NS Gene for Vaccine Development
Authors: Nogales Aitor , Baker Steven F. , Ortiz-Riaño Emilio , Dewhurst Stephen , Topham David J. , Martínez-Sobrido Luis
Published: June 2014

Influenza viral infection represents a serious public health problem that causes contagious respiratory disease, which is most effectively prevented through vaccination to reduce transmission and future infection. The nonstructural (NS) gene of influenza A virus encodes an mRNA transcript that is alternatively spliced to express two viral proteins, the nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) and the nuclear export protein (NEP). The importance of the NS gene of influenza A virus for viral replication and virulence has been well described and represents an attractive target to generate live attenuated influenza viruses with vaccine potential. Considering that most amino acids can be synthesized from several synonymous codons, this study employed the use of misrepresented mammalian codons (codon deoptimization) for the
de novo
synthesis of a viral NS RNA segment based on influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (H1N1) (PR8) virus. We generated three different recombinant influenza PR8 viruses containing codon-deoptimized synonymous mutations in coding regions comprising the entire NS gene or the mRNA corresponding to the individual viral protein NS1 or NEP, without modifying the respective splicing and packaging signals of the viral segment. The fitness of these synthetic viruses was attenuated
in vivo
, while they retained immunogenicity, conferring both homologous and heterologous protection against influenza A virus challenges. These results indicate that influenza viruses can be effectively attenuated by synonymous codon deoptimization of the NS gene and open the possibility of their use as a safe vaccine to prevent infections with these important human pathogens.

IMPORTANCE
Vaccination serves as the best therapeutic option to protect humans against influenza viral infections. However, the efficacy of current influenza vaccines is suboptimal, and novel approaches are necessary for the prevention of disease cause by this important human respiratory pathogen. The nonstructural (NS) gene of influenza virus encodes both the multifunctional nonstructural protein 1 (NS1), essential for innate immune evasion, and the nuclear export protein (NEP), required for the nuclear export of viral ribonucleoproteins and for timing of the virus life cycle. Here, we have generated a recombinant influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (H1N1) (PR8) virus containing a codon-deoptimized NS segment that is attenuated
in vivo
yet retains immunogenicity and protection efficacy against homologous and heterologous influenza virus challenges. These results open the exciting possibility of using this NS codon deoptimization methodology alone or in combination with other approaches for the future development of vaccine candidates to prevent influenza viral infections.
Seatbelt and child-restraint use in Kazakhstan: attitudes and behaviours of medical university students
Authors: Nugmanova Zhamilya S , Ussatayeva Gainel , McNutt Louise-Anne
Published: June 2014

Traffic fatalities in Kazakhstan increased from 15 to more than 30 per 100 000 between 2001 and 2006. Mortality remains high compared with developed nations. Safety-restraint laws have been enacted, but little data exist regarding usage of seatbelts, particularly among children and passengers. This cross-sectional study surveyed medical university students about attitudes and behaviours regarding seatbelt and child safety-restraint usage. Seatbelts are widely used in the front seat (81%) but not in the back seat (79% ‘never’ or ‘rarely’ use a seatbelt in the back seat). Fewer than half reported ‘always’ or ‘almost always’ providing restraint for children under 7 years and 24% reported children secure the seatbelts themselves. Safety in the back seat merits attention. Adults generally do not buckle in the back seat despite a law requiring seatbelt use. Promotion of child safety restraints should be prioritised in prevention education for physicians and the community.
Trends in inequalities in premature mortality: a study of 3.2 million deaths in 13 European countries
Authors: Mackenbach Johan P , Kulhánová Ivana , Menvielle Gwenn , Bopp Matthias , Borrell Carme , Costa Giuseppe , Deboosere Patrick , Esnaola Santiago , Kalediene Ramune , Kovacs Katalin , Leinsalu Mall , Martikainen Pekka , Regidor Enrique , Rodriguez-Sanz Maica , Strand Bjørn Heine , Hoffmann Rasmus , Eikemo Terje A , Östergren Olof , Lundberg Olle
Published: June 2014

Background

Over the last decades of the 20th century, a widening of the gap in death rates between upper and lower socioeconomic groups has been reported for many European countries. For most countries, it is unknown whether this widening has continued into the first decade of the 21st century.

Methods

We collected and harmonised data on mortality by educational level among men and women aged 30–74 years in all countries with available data: Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, England and Wales, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Hungary, Lithuania and Estonia.

Results

Relative inequalities in premature mortality increased in most populations in the North, West and East of Europe, but not in the South. This was mostly due to smaller proportional reductions in mortality among the lower than the higher educated, but in the case of Lithuania and Estonia, mortality rose among the lower and declined among the higher educated. Mortality among the lower educated rose in many countries for conditions linked to smoking (lung cancer, women only) and excessive alcohol consumption (liver cirrhosis and external causes). In absolute terms, however, reductions in premature mortality were larger among the lower educated in many countries, mainly due to larger absolute reductions in mortality from cardiovascular disease and cancer (men only). Despite rising levels of education, population-attributable fractions of lower education for mortality rose in many countries.

Conclusions

Relative inequalities in premature mortality have continued to rise in most European countries, and since the 1990s, the contrast between the South (with smaller inequalities) and the East (with larger inequalities) has become stronger. While the population impact of these inequalities has further increased, there are also some encouraging signs of larger absolute reductions in mortality among the lower educated in many countries. Reducing inequalities in mortality critically depends upon speeding up mortality declines among the lower educated, and countering mortality increases from conditions linked to smoking and excessive alcohol consumption such as lung cancer, liver cirrhosis and external causes.
Critical assessment of complications associated with use of the Pipeline Embolization Device
Authors: Park Min S , Albuquerque Felipe C , Nanaszko Michael , Sanborn Matthew R , Moon Karam , Abla Adib A , McDougall Cameron G
Published: June 2014

Background

The Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) has become an important tool in the treatment of complex cerebrovascular pathology since it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in April 2011.

Objective

To determine the overall complication rate (permanent and transient) associated with the use of this new device from a single institution.

Methods

We retrospectively examined a prospectively maintained database of our patients treated with the PED since its availability to the current time. 126 patients (24 men, 102 women; age range 14–83 years, mean 59.8 years) were treated for a total of 137 intracranial aneurysms, one cervical internal carotid artery dissection, one cervical vertebral artery dissection, and one carotid-cavernous fistula with a total of 217 PEDs (1.72 PED/patient).

Results

A total of 40 complications were experienced by 33 patients in our cohort. Four complications (4/126, 3.2%) in four patients were permanent, resulting in three deaths and one permanent disability. The other 36 complications (28.6%) occurred in 29 patients, all of whom went on to recover completely. The total complication rate associated with the use of the PED was 31.7% (40/126).

Conclusions

Despite a low rate of permanent complications associated with the PED in this series, the total complication rate was high. This finding supports the conclusion that this device should be reserved for the most challenging aneurysms. Patients should be advised of this higher rate of transient periprocedural complications.

Trial registration number

IRB#:14BN027 Q7.
Sustainable farming: why we need to diversify
Authors: van Dijk Jan
Published: June 2014

In the future, the UK farming industry will have to meet increased demands against a background of higher levels of uncertainty. Jan van Dijk argues that solely promoting the intensification of current farming systems is a high‐risk strategy, whereas diversification of farming systems offers sustainability as well as opportunities for vets.
A density functional theory and spectroscopic study of intramolecular quenching of metal-to-ligand charge-transfer excited states in some mono-bipyridine ruthenium(II) complexes
Authors: Mazumder Shivnath , Thomas Ryan A. , Lord Richard L. , Schlegel H. Bernhard , Endicott John F.
Published: June 2014

The complexes [Ru(NCCH3)4bpy]2+ and [Ru([14]aneS4)bpy]2+ ([14]aneS4 = 1,4,8,11-tetrathiacyclotetradecane, bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine) have similar absorption and emission spectra but the 77 K metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) excited state emission lifetime of the latter is less than 0.3% that of the former. Density functional theory modeling of the lowest energy triplet excited states indicates that triplet metal centered (3MC) excited states are about 3500 cm−1 lower in energy than their 3MLCT excited states in both complexes. The differences in excited state lifetimes arise from a much larger coordination sphere distortion for [Ru(NCCH3)4bpy]2+ and the associated larger reorganizational barrier for intramolecular electron transfer. The smaller ruthenium ligand distortions of the [Ru([14]aneS4)bpy]2+ complex are apparently a consequence of stereochemical constraints imposed by the macrocyclic [14]aneS4 ligand, and the 3MC excited state calculated for the unconstrained [Ru(S(CH3)2)4bpy]2+ complex (S(CH3)2 = dimethyl sulfide) is distorted in a manner similar to that of [Ru(NCCH3)4bpy]2+. Despite the lower energy calculated for its 3MC than 3MLCT excited state, [Ru(NCCH3)4bpy]2+ emits strongly in 77 K glasses with an emission quantum yield of 0.47. The emission is biphasic with about a 1 μs lifetime for its dominant (86%) emission component. The 405 nm excitation used in these studies results in a significant amount of photodecomposition in the 77 K glasses. This is a temperature-dependent biphotonic process that most likely involves the bipyridine-radical anionic moiety of the 3MLCT excited state. A smaller than expected value found for the radiative rate constant is consistent with a lower energy 3MC than 3MLCT state.
Molecular dynamics investigation of the effect of solvent adsorption on crystal habits of hexogen
Authors: Chen Gang , Xia Mingzhu , Lei Wu , Wang Fengyun , Gong Xuedong
Published: June 2014

In this work, a molecular dynamics investigation was performed to study the effect of the solvents acetone and cyclohexanone on the crystal habits of hexogen. The results show that the adsorption energies of hexogen polar faces such as the (002), (210), (111), and (200) faces are larger than that of the nonpolar (020) face. The adsorption interactions of hexogen surfaces with acetone are stronger than those with cyclohexanone. The adsorption interactions consist of van der Waals and electrostatic interactions. The effect of solvents on the crystal growth of hexogen is discussed by comparing the adsorption energy of each crystal face. It may qualitatively predict that if hexogen crystallizes from polar solvents (acetone and cyclohexanone), the morphological importance of polar faces increases, especially in acetone solvent, while the importance of the nonpolar (020) face probably diminishes, even disappears. The theoretical prediction properly explains the different crystal morphologies of hexogen observed experimentally in these two solvents.
On the objective origin of the phase transitions and metastability in many-particle systems
Authors: Godizov A. G. , Godizov A. A.
Published: June 2014

The modern equilibrium statistical mechanics, intended to link microscopic dynamics to thermodynamic laws for macroscopic quantities, is faced with significant difficulties, as applied to the description of the macroscopic properties of real condensed media within wide thermodynamic ranges, including the vicinities of the phase transition points. A particular problem is the absence of metastable states in the Gibbs statistical mechanics of the systems composed of finite number of particles. Nevertheless, accordance between equilibrium statistical mechanics and thermodynamics of condensed media is achievable if we take account of the mutual correlation (the feedback) between the microscopic properties of molecules and the macrostate of the corresponding medium. This can be done via usage of the "enhanced" Hamilton operator of the considered many-particle system, which contains some temperature-dependent term(s), and the following introduction of the generalized equilibrium distribution over microstates. For illustration of the reasonableness of the proposed approach and of its practical availability in the applications to computing the macroscopic characteristics of condensed media, a cell model of melting/crystallization and metastable supercooled liquid for a water-like medium is presented.
Nanomechanical sensing of gravitational wave-induced Casimir force perturbations
Authors: Pinto Fabrizio
Published: June 2014

It is shown by means of the optical medium analogy that the static Casimir force between two conducting plates is modulated by gravitational waves. The magnitude of the resulting force changes within the range of already existing small force metrology. It is suggested to enhance the effects on a Casimir force oscillator by mechanical parametric amplification driven by periodic illumination of interacting semiconducting boundaries. This represents a novel opportunity for the ground-based laboratory detection of gravitational waves on the nanoscale.
Nonminimal derivative coupling: Some cosmological behaviors of John and George models
Authors: Kanfon A. , Edah G. , Baloïtcha E.
Published: June 2014

We examine some nonminimal derivative coupling models with a term of potential in front of the Ricci scalar–tensor. We limited ourselves to three models of this family: — the potential proportional to the square of the field — the potential proportional to the inverse of the field — the potential proportional to the exponential function of the field. The first one leads to an universe which closes a few moment after its creation. The two other models show an accelerated expanding universe after inflation. The model with a potential proportional to the exponential function of the field, pointed out, just after the big bang primordial, the predominance of dark energy guiding inflation. At the end of inflation, in its expansion, the universe tends to de Sitter model dominated by the stiff matter. These results are those obtained by using the potential which is a linear function of the field. What is interesting about this model is that these results are not very sensitive to variations of the coupling parameter and the initial velocity of the field.
ALPHA AND BETA BUNGAROTOXIN BINDING PROTEINS IN HUMAN CADAVER MUSCLE
Authors: Rasool Suhail , Goyal Vinay , Irshad Mohd , Jailkhani Bansi Lal
Published: June 2014

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) in skeletal muscle, which are targets of the autoimmune response that cause myasthenia gravis (MG). MG is an autoimmune disease caused by anti-acetylcholine (anti-AChR) antibodies, resulting in functional loss of AChR at the neuromuscular junction. Specific binding of radio-iodinated α and β Bgtx was carried out in membranes (rapid filtration method) and triton extract (ammonium sulfate precipitation method) of fresh muscle. The specific binding of α Bgtx to membranes and triton extract of fresh muscle was found to be 19.8 ± 0.2 and 10.2 ± 0.12 fmoles/mg tissue, respectively whereas the same for β-Bgtx was found to be 10.2 ± 0.15 and 7.2 ± 0.12 fmoles/mg tissue, respectively. It was observed that there was no significant decline in specific binding to membranes and triton extract of muscle with increase in post-mortem time from 5 to 24 h. By indirect ELISA with MG pool sera, in addition to age the immunoreactivity varies from one cadaver to another. It was observed that β bungarotoxin binding proteins in muscle shows high immunoreactivity as compared to α Bungarotoxin binding protein.
CHARACTERIZATION OF BACTERIAL ADHESION AND BIOFILM FORMATION ABILITY OF LIVESTOCK-ASSOCIATED METHICILLIN-RESISTANTSTAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUSISOLATED FROM SWINE AND SLAUGHTERHOUSE WASTEWATERS
Authors: Wan Min-Tao , Chou Chin-Cheng
Published: June 2014

Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) ST9 has emerged as a potential zoonotic pathogen for humans and animals. Bacterial adhesion factors and biofilms mediate host colonization and infection of MRSA. This study investigated the dynamics of microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMMs), biofilm formation gene (intercellular adhesion [ica]), and biofilm expression in MRSA from the nasal samples of asymptomatic pigs (the nasal group, n = 147) and swine slaughterhouse wastewater samples (the environmental group, n = 86). Biofilm formation was quantified by microtiter plate assay. The most prevalent MSCRAMM profile was clfA-clfB-spa-eno-ebps-fib and more than 70% of the LA-MRSA ST9 isolates harbored the biofilm formation gene. Environmental MRSA harbored lower levels of the ica locus and MSCRAMMs (clfA and fib) than did the nasal group, suggesting possible gene loss. Biofilm production in the nasal group was higher than in the environmental group, indicating the difference in biofilm formation in MRSA isolates from different ecological niches. The higher prevalence of MSCRAMMs, biofilm formation gene, and biofilm production in LA-MRSA ST9 may enhance the persistence and infectivity of MRSA in the swine population and present a threat to the health of livestock as well as farm workers.
Mapping b-Value Anomalies Along the Indonesian Island Chain: Implications for Upcoming Earthquakes
Authors: Pailoplee Santi
Published: June 2014

In this study, the geospatial frequency–magnitude distribution (FMD) b-value images of the prospect sources of upcoming earthquakes were investigated along the Indonesian Sunda Margin (ISM) that strikes parallel to and near the Indonesian Island chain. After enhancing the completeness and stability of the earthquake catalogue, the seismicity data were separated according to their seismotectonic setting into shallow crustal and Intraslab earthquakes. In order to verify the spatial relationship between the b-values and the occurrence of subsequent major earthquakes, the complete shallow crustal seismicity dataset (1980–2005) was truncated into the 1980–2000 sub-dataset. Utilizing the suitable assumption of fixed-number of earthquakes, retrospective tests of both the complete and truncated datasets supported that areas of comparatively low b-values could reasonably be expected to predict likely hypocenters of future earthquakes. As a result, the present-day distributions of b-values derived from the complete (1980–2005) shallow crustal and Intraslab seismicity datasets revealed eight and six earthquake-prone areas, respectively, along the ISM. Since most of these high risk areas proposed here are quite close to the major cities of Indonesia, attention should be paid and mitigation plans should be developed for both seismic and tsunami hazards.
Cosmic Star-Formation History
Authors: Madau Piero , Dickinson Mark
Published: June 2014

Over the past two decades, an avalanche of new data from multiwavelength imaging and spectroscopic surveys has revolutionized our view of galaxy formation and evolution. Here we review the range of complementary techniques and theoretical tools that allow astronomers to map the cosmic history of star formation, heavy element production, and reionization of the Universe from the cosmic “dark ages” to the present epoch. A consistent picture is emerging, whereby the star-formation rate density peaked approximately 3.5 Gyr after the Big Bang, at z≈1.9, and declined exponentially at later times, with an e-folding timescale of 3.9 Gyr. Half of the stellar mass observed today was formed before a redshift z = 1.3. About 25% formed before the peak of the cosmic star-formation rate density, and another 25% formed after z = 0.7. Less than ∼1% of today's stars formed during the epoch of reionization. Under the assumption of a universal initial mass function, the global stellar mass density inferred at any epoch matches reasonably well the time integral of all the preceding star-formation activity. The comoving rates of star formation and central black hole accretion follow a similar rise and fall, offering evidence for coevolution of black holes and their host galaxies. The rise of the mean metallicity of the Universe to about 0.001 solar by z = 6, one Gyr after the Big Bang, appears to have been accompanied by the production of fewer than ten hydrogen Lyman-continuum photons per baryon, a rather tight budget for cosmological reionization.
Fluorescence Imaging for Bacterial Cell Biology: From Localization to Dynamics, From Ensembles to Single Molecules
Authors: Yao Zhizhong , Carballido-López Rut
Published: June 2014

Fluorescent proteins and developments in superresolution (nanoscopy) and single-molecule techniques bring high sensitivity, speed, and one order of magnitude gain in spatial resolution to live-cell imaging. These technologies have only recently been applied to prokaryotic cell biology, revealing the exquisite subcellular organization of bacterial cells. Here, we review the parallel evolution of fluorescence microscopy methods and their application to bacteria, mainly drawing examples from visualizing actin-like MreB proteins in the model bacterium Bacillus subtilis. We describe the basic principles of nanoscopy and conventional techniques and their advantages and limitations to help microbiologists choose the most suitable technique for their biological question. Looking ahead, multidimensional live-cell nanoscopy combined with computational image analysis tools, systems biology approaches, and mathematical modeling will provide movie-like, mechanistic, and quantitative description of molecular events in bacterial cells.
Altered Egos: Antibiotic Effects on Food Animal Microbiomes
Authors: Allen Heather K. , Stanton Thad B.
Published: June 2014

The human food chain begins with upwards of 1,000 species of bacteria that inhabit the intestinal tracts of poultry and livestock. These intestinal denizens are responsible for the health and safety of a major protein source for humans. The use of antibiotics to treat animal diseases was followed by the surprising discovery that antibiotics enhanced food animal growth, and both led to six decades of antibiotic use that has shaped food animal management practices. Perhaps the greatest impact of antibiotic feeding in food animals has been as a selective force in the evolution of their intestinal bacteria, particularly by increasing the prevalence and diversity of antibiotic resistance genes. Future antibiotic use will likely be limited to prudent applications in both human and veterinary medicine. Improved knowledge of antibiotic effects, particularly of growth-promoting antibiotics, will help overcome the challenges of managing animal health and food safety.
Cellular Sensing of Viral DNA and Viral Evasion Mechanisms
Authors: Orzalli Megan H. , Knipe David M.
Published: June 2014

Mammalian cells detect foreign DNA introduced as free DNA or as a result of microbial infection, leading to the induction of innate immune responses that block microbial replication and the activation of mechanisms that epigenetically silence the genes encoded by the foreign DNA. A number of DNA sensors localized to a variety of sites within the cell have been identified, and this review focuses on the mechanisms that detect viral DNA and how the resulting responses affect viral infections. Viruses have evolved mechanisms that inhibit these host sensors and signaling pathways, and the study of these antagonistic viral strategies has provided insight into the mechanisms of these host responses. The field of cellular sensing of foreign DNA is in its infancy, but our currently limited knowledge has raised a number of important questions for study.
Measuring Consciousness in Severely Damaged Brains
Authors: Gosseries Olivia , Di Haibo , Laureys Steven , Boly Mélanie
Published: June 2014

Significant advances have been made in the behavioral assessment and clinical management of disorders of consciousness (DOC). In addition, functional neuroimaging paradigms are now available to help assess consciousness levels in this challenging patient population. The success of these neuroimaging approaches as diagnostic markers is, however, intrinsically linked to understanding the relationships between consciousness and the brain. In this context, a combined theoretical approach to neuroimaging studies is needed. The promise of such theoretically based markers is illustrated by recent findings that used a perturbational approach to assess the levels of consciousness. Further research on the contents of consciousness in DOC is also needed.
Susceptibility Genes 101: How to Be a Good Host
Authors: van Schie Chris C.N. , Takken Frank L.W.
Published: June 2014

To confer resistance against pathogens and pests in plants, typically dominant resistance genes are deployed. However, because resistance is based on recognition of a single pathogen-derived molecular pattern, these narrow-spectrum genes are usually readily overcome. Disease arises from a compatible interaction between plant and pathogen. Hence, altering a plant gene that critically facilitates compatibility could provide a more broad-spectrum and durable type of resistance. Here, such susceptibility (S) genes are reviewed with a focus on the mechanisms underlying loss of compatibility. We distinguish three groups of S genes acting during different stages of infection: early pathogen establishment, modulation of host defenses, and pathogen sustenance. The many examples reviewed here show that S genes have the potential to be used in resistance breeding. However, because S genes have a function other than being a compatibility factor for the pathogen, the side effects caused by their mutation demands a one-by-one assessment of their usefulness for application.
Fifty Years Since Silent Spring
Authors: Epstein Lynn
Published: June 2014

Rachel Carson's 1962 Silent Spring exposed both observed and potential environmental and health externalities of the increasing organochlorine and organophosphate insecticide use in the United States post–World War II. Silent Spring was a critical component in a popular movement that resulted in increased regulation and the development of safer pesticides. Most changes in pesticide use in the global north have involved pesticide substitutions, although riskier pesticides remain in use. Many ideas in Silent Spring are compatible with the theory of integrated pest management (IPM), and IPM has been broadly embraced in the United States and internationally as a strategy for achieving least-use and/or least-risk pesticide use in agriculture. IPM is a politically feasible policy that purports to reduce pesticide use and/or risk in agriculture but often does not, except in extreme cases of pesticide overuse that result in negative agricultural/economic consequences for growers.
Carbon Markets: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Newell Richard G. , Pizer William A. , Raimi Daniel
Published: June 2014

Carbon markets are substantial and expanding. There are many lessons from experience over the past 9 years: fewer free allowances, careful moderation of low and high prices, and a recognition that trading systems require adjustments that have consequences for market participants and market confidence. Moreover, the emerging international architecture features separate emissions trading systems serving distinct jurisdictions. These programs are complemented by a variety of other types of policies alongside the carbon markets. This architecture sits in sharp contrast to the integrated global trading architecture envisioned 15 years ago by the designers of the Kyoto Protocol and raises a suite of new questions. In this new architecture, jurisdictions with emissions trading have to decide how, whether, and when to link with one another, and policy makers must confront how to measure both the comparability of efforts among markets and the comparability between markets and a variety of other policy approaches.
Intravesical TRPV4 blockade reduces repeated variate stress-induced bladder dysfunction by increasing bladder capacity and decreasing voiding frequency in male rats
Authors: Merrill Liana , Vizzard Margaret A.
Published: June 2014

Individuals with functional lower urinary tract disorders including interstitial cystitis (IC)/bladder pain syndrome (BPS) and overactive bladder (OAB) often report symptom (e.g., urinary frequency) worsening due to stress. One member of the transient receptor potential ion channel vanilloid family, TRPV4, has recently been implicated in urinary bladder dysfunction disorders including OAB and IC/BPS. These studies address the role of TRPV4 in stress-induced bladder dysfunction using an animal model of stress in male rats. To induce stress, rats were exposed to 7 days of repeated variate stress (RVS). Quantitative PCR data demonstrated significant ( P ≤ 0.01) increases in TRPV4 transcript levels in urothelium but not detrusor smooth muscle. Western blot analyses of split urinary bladders (i.e., urothelium and detrusor) showed significant ( P ≤ 0.01) increases in TRPV4 protein expression levels in urothelial tissues but not detrusor smooth muscle. We previously showed that RVS produces bladder dysfunction characterized by decreased bladder capacity and increased voiding frequency. The functional role of TRPV4 in RVS-induced bladder dysfunction was evaluated using continuous, open outlet intravesical infusion of saline in conjunction with administration of a TRPV4 agonist, GSK1016790A (3 μM), a TRPV4 antagonist, HC067047 (1 μM), or vehicle (0.1% DMSO in saline) in control and RVS-treated rats. Bladder capacity, void volume, and intercontraction interval significantly decreased following intravesical instillation of GSK1016790A in control rats and significantly ( P ≤ 0.01) increased following administration of HC067047 in RVS-treated rats. These results demonstrate increased TRPV4 expression in the urothelium following RVS and that TRPV4 blockade ameliorates RVS-induced bladder dysfunction consistent with the role of TRPV4 as a promising target for bladder function disorders.
Voluntary wheel running augments aortic l-arginine transport and endothelial function in rats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Martens Christopher R. , Kuczmarski James M. , Kim Jahyun , Guers John J. , Brennan Harris M. , Lennon-Edwards Shannon , Edwards David G.
Published: June 2014

Reduced nitric oxide (NO) synthesis contributes to risk for cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Vascular uptake of the NO precursor l-arginine (ARG) is attenuated in rodents with CKD, resulting in reduced substrate availability for NO synthesis and impaired vascular function. We tested the effect of 4 wk of voluntary wheel running (RUN) and/or ARG supplementation on endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) in rats with CKD. Twelve-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent ⅚ ablation infarction surgery to induce CKD, or SHAM surgery as a control. Beginning 4 wk following surgery, CKD animals either remained sedentary (SED) or received one of the following interventions: supplemental ARG, RUN, or combined RUN+ARG. Animals were euthanized 8 wk after surgery, and EDR was assessed. EDR was significantly impaired in SED vs. SHAM animals after 8 wk, in response to ACh (10−9-10−5 M) as indicated by a reduced area under the curve (AUC; 44.56 ± 9.01 vs 100 ± 4.58, P < 0.05) and reduced maximal response (Emax; 59.9 ± 9.67 vs. 94.31 ± 1.27%, P < 0.05). AUC was not improved by ARG treatment but was significantly improved above SED animals in both RUN and RUN+ARG-treated animals. Maximal relaxation was elevated above SED in RUN+ARG animals only. l-[3H]arginine uptake was impaired in both SED and ARG animals and was improved in RUN and RUN+ARG animals. The results suggest that voluntary wheel running is an effective therapy to improve vascular function in CKD and may be more beneficial when combined with l-arginine.
Cyp2c44 epoxygenase in the collecting duct is essential for the high K+ intake-induced antihypertensive effect
Authors: Wang Wen-Hui , Zhang Chengbiao , Lin Dao-Hong , Wang Lijun , Graves Joan P. , Zeldin Darryl C. , Capdevila Jorge H.
Published: June 2014

Cytochrome P-450, family 2, subfamily c, polypeptide 44 (Cyp2c44) epoxygenase metabolizes arachidonic acid (AA) to epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) in kidney and vascular tissues. In the present study, we used real-time quantitative PCR techniques to examine the effect of high salt or high K+ (HK) intake on the expression of Cyp2c44, a major Cyp2c epoxygenase in the mouse kidney. We detected Cyp2c44 in the proximal convoluted tubule, thick ascending limb, distal convoluted tubule (DCT)/connecting tubule (CNT), and collecting duct (CD). A high-salt diet increased the expression of Cyp2c44 in the thick ascending limb and DCT/CNT but not in the proximal convoluted tubule and CD. In contrast, an increase in dietary K+ intake augmented Cyp2c44 expression only in the DCT/CNT and CD. Neither high salt nor HK intake had a significant effect on the blood pressure (BP) of wild-type mice. However, HK but not high salt intake increased BP in CD-specific, Cyp2c44 conditional knockout (KO) mice. Amiloride, an epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) inhibitor, normalized the BP of KO mice fed HK diets, suggesting that lack of Cyp2c44 in the CD enhances ENaC activity and increases Na+ absorption in KO mice fed HK diets. This notion was supported by metabolic cage experiments demonstrating that renal Na+ excretion was compromised in KO mice fed HK diets. Also, patch-clamp experiments demonstrated that 11,12-EET, a major Cyp2c44 product, but not AA inhibited ENaC activity in the cortical CD of KO mice. We conclude that Cyp2c44 in the CD is required for preventing the excessive Na+ absorption induced by HK intake by inhibition of ENaC and facilitating renal Na+ excretion.
Chronic kidney disease: targeting prostaglandin E2receptors
Authors: Nasrallah Rania , Hassouneh Ramzi , Hébert Richard L.
Published: June 2014

Chronic kidney disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. A better understanding of disease mechanisms has been gained in recent years, but the current management strategies are ineffective at preventing disease progression. A widespread focus of research is placed on elucidating the specific processes implicated to find more effective therapeutic options. PGE2, acting on its four EP receptors, regulates many renal disease processes; thus EP receptors could prove to be important targets for kidney disease intervention strategies. This review summarizes the major pathogenic mechanisms contributing to initiation and progression of chronic kidney disease, emphasizing the role of hyperglycemia, hypertension, inflammation, and oxidative stress. We have long recognized the multifaceted role of PGs in both the initiation and progression of chronic kidney disease, yet studies are only now seriously contemplating specific EP receptors as targets for therapy. Given the plethora of renal complications attributed to PG involvement in the kidney, this review highlights these pathogenic events and emphasizes the PGE2receptor targets as options available to complement current therapeutic strategies.