bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity of Carbapenemase-Producing Escherichia coli Isolates in France in 2012-2013
Authors: Gauthier Lauraine , Dortet Laurent , Cotellon Garance , Creton Elodie , Cuzon Gaëlle , Ponties Valérie , Bonnin Rémy A. , Naas Thierry
Published: May 2018

With the dissemination of carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
(CPE) strains worldwide, carbapenem-hydrolyzing enzymes are increasingly reported among isolates of
Escherichia coli
, the first hospital and community-acquired opportunistic pathogen. Here, we have performed an epidemiological survey of carbapenemase-producing
E. coli
(CP-
Ec
) isolates received at the French National Reference Centre (F-NRC) in 2012 and 2013.
In Vitro
Activity of Plazomicin against Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Isolates Collected from U.S. Hospitals and Comparative Activities of Aminoglycosides against Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae and Isolates Carrying Carbapenemase Genes
Authors: Castanheira Mariana , Davis Andrew P. , Mendes Rodrigo E. , Serio Alisa W. , Krause Kevin M. , Flamm Robert K.
Published: May 2018

Plazomicin and comparator agents were tested by using the CLSI reference broth microdilution method against 4,825 clinical isolates collected during 2014 and 2015 in 70 U.S. hospitals as part of the ALERT (Antimicrobial Longitudinal Evaluation and Resistance Trends) program.
Proposing Kluyvera georgiana as the Origin of the Plasmid-Mediated Resistance Gene
fosA4
Authors: Rodriguez Maria Margarita , Ghiglione Barbara , Power Pablo , Naas Thierry , Gutkind Gabriel
Published: May 2018

A putative
fosA
gene in
Kluyvera georgiana
14751 showed 99% nucleotide identity with plasmid-encoded
fosA4
. Due to a single-nucleotide insertion translating to a truncated protein,
K. georgiana
14751
fosA
does not confer fosfomycin resistance. However, analysis of another genome deposit (
Kluyvera ascorbata
WCH1410) that could be recategorized as
K. georgiana
after phylogenetic analysis revealed a
fosA
gene 100% identical to the plasmid-borne
fosA4
gene. We suggest that
Kluyvera georgiana
represents the most probable origin of
fosA4
.
Pharmacokinetics of Praziquantel in Schistosoma mansoni- and Schistosoma haematobium-Infected School- and Preschool-Aged Children
Authors: Kovač Jana , Meister Isabel , Neodo Anna , Panic Gordana , Coulibaly Jean T. , Falcoz Christine , Keiser Jennifer
Published: May 2018

There is a growing consensus to include preschool-aged children in preventive chemotherapy programs with praziquantel to improve schistosomiasis control. However, pharmacokinetic data, crucial to establish a safe and effective dose for this age group, are sparse.
Novel Role of VisP and the Wzz System during O-Antigen Assembly in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Pathogenesis
Authors: da Silva Patrick , Manieri Fernanda Z. , Herrera Carmen M. , Trent M. Stephen , Moreira Cristiano G.
Published: May 2018

Salmonella enterica
serovars are associated with diarrhea and gastroenteritis and are a helpful model for understanding host-pathogen mechanisms.
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium regulates the distribution of O antigen (OAg) and presents a trimodal distribution based on Wzy polymerase and the Wzz
ST
(long-chain-length OAg [L-OAg]) and Wzz
fepE
(very-long-chain-length OAg [VL-OAg]) copolymerases; however, several mechanisms regulating this process remain unclear.
The Dual Tropism of Noroviruses
Authors: Wobus Christiane E.
Published: May 2018

Noroviruses are highly prevalent enteric RNA viruses. Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) cause significant morbidity, mortality, and economic losses worldwide.
Perivascular adipose tissue and coronary atherosclerosis
Authors: Mancio Jennifer , Oikonomou Evangelos K , Antoniades Charalambos
Published: May 2018

Adipose tissue (AT) is no longer viewed as a passive, energy-storing depot, and a growing body of evidence supports the concept that both quantitative and qualitative aspects of AT are critical in determining an individual’s cardiometabolic risk profile. Among all AT sites, perivascular AT (PVAT) has emerged as a depot with a distinctive biological significance in cardiovascular disease given its close anatomical proximity to the vasculature. Recent studies have suggested the presence of complex, bidirectional paracrine and vasocrine signalling pathways between the vascular wall and its PVAT, with far-reaching implications in cardiovascular diagnostics and therapeutics. In this review, we first discuss the biological role of PVAT in both cardiovascular health and disease, highlighting its dual pro-atherogenic and anti-atherogenic roles, as well as potential therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease. We then review current evidence and promising new modalities on the non-invasive imaging of epicardial AT and PVAT. Specifically, we present how our expanding knowledge on the bidirectional interplay between the vascular wall and its PVAT can be translated into novel clinical diagnostics tools to assess coronary inflammation. To this end, we present the example of a new CT-based method that tracks spatial changes in PVAT phenotype to extract information about the inflammatory status of the adjacent vasculature, highlighting the numerous diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities that arise from our increased understanding of PVAT biology.
Comments on the dilemma in the May issue: Slipped disk and dyspnoea in a French bulldog
Authors: Lobb Meghan
Published: May 2018

In the dilemma discussed in the May issue of In Practice, Laura McLellan described a scenario where ‘Bella’, a four‐year‐old female French bulldog, is presented to you as an emergency during evening surgery, with acute upper airway obstruction syndrome (UAOS). She is also suffering from a grade 3 intervertebral disc extrusion causing hindlimb paresis, which had been diagnosed earlier in the day at a charity clinic. The UAOS appears to have been triggered by the stress of the hindlimb paresis and possibly the visit to the charity clinic (IP, May 2018, vol 40, pp 166‐167). You wonder how you should proceed and advise the owner?
Immunomodulatory innate defence regulator (IDR) peptide alleviates airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness
Authors: Piyadasa Hadeesha , Hemshekhar Mahadevappa , Altieri Anthony , Basu Sujata , van der Does Anne M , Halayko Andrew J , Hiemstra Pieter S , Mookherjee Neeloffer
Published: May 2018

Background

Exacerbation in asthma is associated with decreased expression of specific host defence peptides (HDPs) in the lungs. We examined the effects of a synthetic derivative of HDP, innate defence regulator (IDR) peptide IDR-1002, in house dust mite (HDM)-challenged murine model of asthma, in interleukin (IL)-33-challenged mice and in human primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBECs).

Methods

IDR-1002 (6 mg/kg per mouse) was administered (subcutaneously) in HDM-challenged and/or IL-33-challenged BALB/c mice. Lung function analysis was performed with increasing dose of methacholine by flexiVent small animal ventilator, cell differentials in bronchoalveolar lavage performed by modified Wright-Giemsa staining, and cytokines monitored by MesoScale Discovery assay and ELISA. PBECs stimulated with tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ), with or without IDR-1002, were analysed by western blots.

Results

IDR-1002 blunted HDM challenge-induced airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR), and lung leucocyte accumulation including that of eosinophils and neutrophils, in HDM-challenged mice. Concomitantly, IDR-1002 suppressed HDM-induced IL-33 in the lungs. IFN-γ/TNF-α-induced IL-33 production was abrogated by IDR-1002 in PBECs. Administration of IL-33 in HDM-challenged mice, or challenge with IL-33 alone, mitigated the ability of IDR-1002 to control leucocyte accumulation in the lungs, suggesting that the suppression of IL-33 is essential for the anti-inflammatory activity of IDR-1002. In contrast, the peptide significantly reduced either HDM, IL-33 or HDM+IL-33 co-challenge-induced AHR in vivo.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that an immunomodulatory IDR peptide controls the pathophysiology of asthma in a murine model. As IL-33 is implicated in steroid-refractory severe asthma, our findings on the effects of IDR-1002 may contribute to the development of novel therapies for steroid-refractory severe asthma.
Vaping versus JUULing: how the extraordinary growth and marketing of JUUL transformed the US retail e-cigarette market
Authors: Huang Jidong , Duan Zongshuan , Kwok Julian , Binns Steven , Vera Lisa E , Kim Yoonsang , Szczypka Glen , Emery Sherry L
Published: May 2018

Background

While national surveys showed declines in e-cigarette use in the USA between 2015 and 2016, recent reports indicate that JUUL, a sleekly designed e-cigarette that looks like a USB drive, is increasingly being used by youth and young adults. However, the extent of JUUL’s growth and its marketing strategy have not been systematically examined.

Methods

A variety of data sources were used to examine JUUL retail sales in the USA and its marketing and promotion. Retail store scanner data were used to capture the retail sales of JUUL and other major e-cigarette brands for the period 2011–2017. A list of JUUL-related keywords was used to identify JUUL-related tweets on Twitter; to identify JUUL-related posts, hashtags and accounts on Instagram and to identify JUUL-related videos on YouTube.

Results

In the short 3-year period 2015–2017, JUUL has transformed from a little-known brand with minimum sales into the largest retail e-cigarette brand in the USA, lifting sales of the entire e-cigarette category. Its US$150 million retail sales in the last quarter of 2017 accounted for about 40% of e-cigarette retail market share. While marketing expenditures for JUUL were moderate, the sales growth of JUUL was accompanied by a variety of innovative, engaging and wide-reaching campaigns on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, conducted by JUUL and its affiliated marketers.

Conclusions

The discrepancies between e-cigarette sales data and the prevalence of e-cigarette use from surveys highlight the challenges in tracking and understanding the use of new and emerging tobacco products. In a rapidly changing media environment, where successful and influential marketing campaigns can be conducted on social media at little cost, marketing expenditures alone may not fully capture the influence, reach and engagement of tobacco marketing.
Effect of an intraoperative infusion of amino acids on body temperature, serum biochemistry, serum insulin and recovery variables in healthy dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Clark‐Price Stuart C , Phillips Heidi , Selmic Laura Elizabeth , Keating Stephanie C J , Reagan Jennifer K
Published: May 2018

Change in body temperature (BT), serum biochemistry and recovery variables were compared after infusion of amino acids (AA) or lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Dogs received eight parts 10 per cent AA and two parts LRS (AA, n=10) or only LRS (CG, n=10) at 10 ml/kg/hour during 90 minutes of anaesthesia. BT was measured during anaesthesia and 60 minutes of recovery. Extubation time and shivering were noted. Serum samples were obtained before anaesthesia (T0), end of anaesthesia (T90) and 18 hours after (T18h). Friedman, Mann‐Whitney, Kruskal‐Wallis or Fisher's exact tests were used for analysis. A decrease in BT of −2.16 (−1.59 to −3.24)°C for group AA and −2.79 (−1.98 to −4.52)°C for group CG was different (P=0.02). Time to extubation was 5 (3–9) minutes for group AA and 9 (5–15) minutes for group CG and was different (P=0.01). Only 30 per cent of dogs in group AA and 100 per cent of dogs in group CG shivered during recovery (P=0.003). Glucose, insulin and blood urea nitrogen at T90 were higher than T0 and T18h for group AA. Dogs receiving intraoperative infusion of AA had a higher BT, extubated sooner and shivered less than control dogs at recovery from anaesthesia.
Urine dipstick precision with standard visual and automated methods within a small animal teaching hospital
Authors: Ferreira Marisa da Fonseca , Garcia Arce Marta , Handel Ian Graham , Breheny Craig Robert , Gow Adam George
Published: May 2018

Urine dipstick results may vary between operators/methods. The magnitude of variation across the veterinary field is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to compare the precision of urine dipstick results between standard direct visual and automated reading methods when performed by several operators. Urine samples were pooled and divided into three aliquots: one plain, one with glucose and one with serum. Final year students, veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, blinded to each sample, were then asked to perform dipstick analysis with direct visualisation and an automated analyser, and their technique was observed. A subsequent session was undertaken with samples which had pH titrated to achieve an acidic, neutral or alkaline value. Sixty‐four veterinary students, 20 veterinary surgeons and seven veterinary nurses performed the first (n=61) or second (n=30) part of the study. Precision was greater using the automated reader. The most common observed technique errors were: lack of sample mixing, for both visual and automated methods, and not timing readings as per manufacturer instructions when performing visual analysis. This study suggests that in an environment with multiple operators, as is the case in veterinary teaching or large private hospitals, automated urine dipstick reading improves precision of results.
Re-assessing abundance of Southern Hudson Bay polar bears by aerial survey: effects of climate change at the southern edge of the range
Authors: Obbard Martyn E. , Stapleton Seth , Szor Guillaume , Middel Kevin R. , Jutras Charles , Dyck Markus
Published: May 2018

The Southern Hudson Bay polar bear (Ursus maritimus Phipps, 1774) subpopulation is considered stable, but conflicting evidence lends uncertainty to that designation. Capture–recapture studies conducted in 1984–1986 and 2003–2005 and an aerial survey conducted in 2011/2012 suggested that abundance was likely unchanged since the mid-1980s. However, body condition and body size declined since then, and duration of sea ice decreased by about 30 days. Due to the conflicting information on subpopulation status and ongoing changes in sea ice, we conducted another aerial survey in 2016 to determine whether abundance had changed. We collected data via mark–recapture distance sampling and double-observer protocols. Results suggest that abundance declined 17% from 943 bears (95% CI: 658–1350) in 2011/2012 to 780 (95% CI: 590–1029) in 2016. The proportion of yearlings declined from 12% of the population in 2011 to 5% in 2016, whereas the proportion of cubs remained similar (16% in 2011 vs. 19% in 2016) suggesting low survival of the 2015 cohort. In a warming Arctic, duration of sea ice is predicted to continue to decline in Hudson Bay affecting all ice-dependent wildlife; therefore, further monitoring of this subpopulation is warranted. We recommend a conservative approach to harvest management and repeating the aerial survey in 2021.
Salvage logging effects on regulating and supporting ecosystem services — a systematic map
Authors: Leverkus Alexandro B. , Rey Benayas José María , Castro Jorge , Boucher Dominique , Brewer Stephen , Collins Brandon M. , Donato Daniel , Fraver Shawn , Kishchuk Barbara E. , Lee Eun-Jae , Lindenmayer David B. , Lingua Emanuele , Macdonald Ellen , Marzano Raffaella , Rhoades Charles C. , Royo Alejandro , Thorn Simon , Wagenbrenner Joseph W. , Waldron Kaysandra , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Gustafsson Lena
Published: May 2018

Wildfires, insect outbreaks, and windstorms are increasingly common forest disturbances. Post-disturbance management often involves salvage logging, i.e., the felling and removal of the affected trees; however, this practice may represent an additional disturbance with effects on ecosystem processes and services. We developed a systematic map to provide an overview of the primary studies on this topic and created a database with information on the characteristics of the retrieved publications, including information on stands, disturbance, intervention, measured outcomes, and study design. Of 4341 retrieved publications, 90 were retained in the systematic map. These publications represented 49 studies, predominantly from North America and Europe. Salvage logging after wildfire was addressed more frequently than after insect outbreaks or windstorms. Most studies addressed logging after a single disturbance event, and replication of salvaged stands rarely exceeded 10. The most frequent response variables were tree regeneration, ground cover, and deadwood characteristics. This document aims to help managers find the most relevant primary studies on the ecological effects of salvage logging. It also aims to identify and discuss clusters and gaps in the body of evidence, relevant for scientists who aim to synthesize previous work or identify questions for future studies.
Transcriptomic response ofRalstonia solanacearumto antimicrobialPseudomonas fluorescensSN15-2 metabolites
Authors: Lou Haibo , Wang Xiaobing , Chen Jun , Wang Bozhi , Wang Wei
Published: May 2018

To develop efficient biocontrol agents, it is essential to investigate the response of soil-borne plant pathogens to such agents. For example, the response of Ralstonia solanacearum, the tomato wilt pathogen, to antimicrobial metabolites of Pseudomonas fluorescens is unknown. Thus, we assessed the effects of P. fluorescens SN15-2 fermentation broth on R. solanacearum by transmission electron microscopy and transcriptome technology. RNA sequencing identified 109 and 155 genes that are significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in response to P. fluorescens metabolites, many of which are associated with the cell membrane and cell wall, and with nucleotide acid metabolism, iron absorption, and response to oxidative stress. This study highlights the effectiveness of P. fluorescens metabolites against the tomato wilt pathogen and helps clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Analogy between the four-wave mixing in atom gas system and that in optical fiber and double micro-ring system
Authors: Guo Qi-Zhi , Meng Yi-Chao , Zhao Chao-Ying , Tan Wei-Han
Published: May 2018

The correspondence relation between the parameters of optical four-wave mixing (FWM) in atom system and that of the optical fiber and double-ring system is found out theoretically. Based on this relation, the transmission spectra for two systems are calculated numerically and the obtained results are essentially the same. Finally, a scheme of generation of Stokes and anti-Stokes photon pairs in the wave-guide and double-ring system corresponding to FWM in atom system is proposed.
Genome-wide characterization, identification, and expression analysis of the WD40 protein family in cotton
Authors: Salih Haron , Gong Wenfang , Mkulama Mtawa , Du Xiongming
Published: May 2018

WD40 repeat proteins are largely distributed across the plant kingdom and play an important role in diverse biological activities. In this work, we performed genome-wide identification, characterization, and expression level analysis of WD40 genes in cotton. A total of 579, 318, and 313 WD40 genes were found in Gossypium hirsutum, G. arboreum, and G. raimondii, respectively. Based on phylogenetic tree analyses, WD40 genes were divided into 11 groups with high similarities in exon/intron features and protein domains within the group. Expression analysis of WD40 genes showed differential expression at different stages of cotton fiber development (0 and 8 DPA) and cotton stem. A number of miRNAs were identified to target WD40 genes that are significantly involved in cotton fiber development during the initiation and elongation stages. These include miR156, miR160, miR162, miR164, miR166, miR167, miR169, miR171, miR172, miR393, miR396, miR398, miR2950, and miR7505. The findings provide a stronger indication of WD40 gene function and their involvement in the regulation of cotton fiber development during the initiation and elongation stages.
Lattice stick number of spatial graphs
Authors: Yoo Hyungkee , Lee Chaeryn , Oh Seungsang
Published: May 2018

The lattice stick number of knots is defined to be the minimal number of straight sticks in the cubic lattice required to construct a lattice stick presentation of the knot. We similarly define the lattice stick number [Formula: see text] of spatial graphs [Formula: see text] with vertices of degree at most six (necessary for embedding into the cubic lattice), and present an upper bound in terms of the crossing number [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] has [Formula: see text] edges, [Formula: see text] vertices, [Formula: see text] cut-components, [Formula: see text] bouquet cut-components, and [Formula: see text] knot components.
A DISCRETE MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR SINGLE AND COLLECTIVE MOVEMENT IN AMOEBOID CELLS
Authors: TARFULEA NICOLETA
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we develop a new discrete mathematical model for individual and collective cell motility. We introduce a mechanical model for the movement of a cell on a two-dimensional rigid surface to describe and investigate the cell–cell and cell–substrate interactions. The cell cytoskeleton is modeled as a series of springs and dashpots connected in parallel. The cell–substrate attachments and the cell protrusions are also included. In particular, this model is used to describe the directed movement of endothelial cells on a Matrigel plate. We compare the results from our model with experimental data. We show that cell density and substrate rigidity play an important role in network formation.
The Bristol model: An abyss called a Cohen real
Authors: Karagila Asaf
Published: May 2018

We construct a model [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] which lies between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for a Cohen real [Formula: see text] and does not have the form [Formula: see text] for any set [Formula: see text]. This is loosely based on the unwritten work done in a Bristol workshop about Woodin’s HOD Conjecture in 2011. The construction given here allows for a finer analysis of the needed assumptions on the ground models, thus taking us one step closer to understanding models of [Formula: see text], and the HOD Conjecture and its relatives. This model also provides a positive answer to a question of Grigorieff about intermediate models of [Formula: see text], and we use it to show the failure of Kinna–Wagner Principles in [Formula: see text].
Some properties of a family of quotients of the Rees algebra
Authors: Tavasoli Elham
Published: May 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a commutative ring and let [Formula: see text] be a nonzero proper ideal of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study the properties of a family of rings [Formula: see text], with [Formula: see text], as quotients of the Rees algebra [Formula: see text], when [Formula: see text] is a semidualizing ideal of Noetherian ring [Formula: see text], and in the case that [Formula: see text] is a flat ideal of [Formula: see text]. In particular, for a Noetherian ring [Formula: see text], it is shown that if [Formula: see text] is a finitely generated [Formula: see text]-module, then [Formula: see text] is totally [Formula: see text]-reflexive as an [Formula: see text]-module if and only if [Formula: see text] is totally reflexive as an [Formula: see text]-module, provided that [Formula: see text] is a semidualizing ideal and [Formula: see text] is reducible in [Formula: see text]. In addition, it is proved that if [Formula: see text] is a nonzero flat ideal of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is reducible in [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text], for any [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text].
‘PLEASE LEAD ME, MY COMMITMENT IS LOW’: INTERACTIVE EFFECTS OF COMMITMENT AND LEADERSHIP ON INNOVATIVE BEHAVIOUR
Authors: KHAOLA PETER , COLDWELL DAVID
Published: May 2018

Even though the effects of leadership and affective commitment on innovative work behaviours (IWBs) have been thoroughly researched, little is known about the interactive effects of these factors on IWBs. Based on data collected from 263 respondents from public and private organisations in Lesotho, the present study examines if affective commitment moderates the relationship between leadership and IWB. Drawing on literatures across management and innovation research domains, the study proposes and finds evidence that affective commitment moderates the relationship between leadership and IWB such that the relationship is stronger for affectively committed employees, while being relatively weaker for less affectively committed employees. The results also reveal that while leadership and management level have the main effects on IWB, affective commitment has no effect on IWB. Overall, the study responds to calls for examining the joint effects of person and context characteristics on IWBs. Drawing on our results, we discuss implications for theory and practice.
THE ECONOMIC-FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES TO INNOVATE IN SPANISH INDUSTRY
Authors: FULLAT MARÍA BOTEY , MARTÍN PEDRO ARIAS , LORENZO SILVERIO ALARCÓN
Published: May 2018

The aim of this paper is to analyse the difficulties that industry in general and agri-food firms in particular have when it comes to innovating. The focus of this analysis is temporal and it covers the periods 2004, 2008 and 2012. This allows assessing whether these difficulties have intensified, declined or remained stable. To this end, we have applied correspondence analysis, multivariate technique similar to principal components analysis designed to explore relationships among categorical variables. We have used the PITEC database, the Spanish component of the Community Innovation Survey from Eurostat. The results are differentiated according to ownership of the company. Finally, the results obtained for the industry in general and agri-food companies are compared. In both cases, the innovation has been affected by the economic crisis, but agri-food companies have performed better than other sectors, although the significance of the economic and financial obstacles depends on the characteristics of the company, its ownership and origin of capital.
Electric, Thermoelectric and Magnetic Properties of Nickel(II) Imine Nanocomplexes
Authors: Elshafaie A. , Abdel-Rahman Laila H. , Abu-Dief Ahmed M. , Hamdan Samar Kamel , Ahmed A. M. , Ibrahim E. M. M.
Published: May 2018

Production of novel organic semiconductor nanomaterials is essential for enabling the development of personal, portable and flexible electronic modules. This work presents Ni(II)-Schiff base complexes with enhanced Seebeck coefficient and weak ferromagnetic ordering for thermoelectric and magnetic devices. Four Ni(II)-Schiff base complexes (namely [Ni(C[Formula: see text]H[Formula: see text]N3O4Br)][Formula: see text]2H2O, [Ni(C[Formula: see text]H[Formula: see text]N3O[Formula: see text]][Formula: see text]2H2O, [Ni(C[Formula: see text]H[Formula: see text]N5O8Br)] and [Ni(C[Formula: see text]H[Formula: see text]N5O[Formula: see text]][Formula: see text]H2O) have been synthesized in nanosized dimensions. The electrical and thermoelectric properties have been studied, and comprehensive discussions have been presented to understand the electrical conduction mechanisms. The electrical conductivity measurements reveal that the conduction is due to the charge carriers hoping between the atomic sites of the same energy levels in the molecule as well as the transfer of the charge carriers between the neighboring complex molecules due to overlapping of their orbitals. The thermoelectric measurement confirms that the nanocomplexes (NCs) are non-degenerate P-type semiconductors with enhanced Seebeck coefficient values compared with those reported for other organic materials. The NCs exhibit antiferromagnetic to paramagnetic transitions with the increase of temperature and weak ferromagnetic ordering at 300[Formula: see text]K.
略论20世纪30、40年代旅暹潮侨赡家性汇款的类别与功能
Authors: 张 钊
Published: May 2018

近代以来，大量潮汕人迫于生计背井离乡远赴暹罗谋生，往往在稍有积蓄后便汇款回乡以便改善家乡亲人的生活条件。这些用于赡养家人的汇款类别众多，功能不一：基本物质生活支出、与家乡习俗有关的支出，以及缓解家庭债务状况的支出等。其中，用于满足基本物质生活的支出主要包括日常所需的柴米油盐、修建房屋、购置土地、购买日用品、医药费、教育费用等；与家乡习俗有关的支出主要包括给长辈祝寿、过年的利市、婚礼费用、祭祀费用、葬礼费用，以及民俗活动的费用；用于偿还债务的支出则既包括华侨本身因出洋谋生所欠下的债务，也包括家中因各种原因欠下的费用。总的来看，这些华侨寄回家乡的赡家性汇款覆盖了家庭生活中许多方面的需求。可以说，华侨汇款回乡的目的之一，就是要在各方面为家庭提供财力支持以维持家庭的正常运转。
A Survey on Anomaly detection in Evolving Data
Authors: Salehi Mahsa , Rashidi Lida
Published: May 2018

Traditionally most of the anomaly detection algorithms have been designed for 'static' datasets, in which all the observations are available at one time. In non-stationary environments on the other hand, the same algorithms cannot be applied as the underlying data distributions change constantly and the same models are not valid. Hence, we need to devise adaptive models that take into account the dynamically changing characteristics of environments and detect anomalies in 'evolving' data. Over the last two decades, many algorithms have been proposed to detect anomalies in evolving data. Some of them consider scenarios where a sequence of objects (called data streams) with one or multiple features evolves over time. Whereas the others concentrate on more complex scenarios, where streaming objects with one or multiple features have causal/non-causal relationships with each other. The latter can be represented as evolving graphs. In this paper, we categorize existing strategies for detecting anomalies in both scenarios including the state-of-the-art techniques. Since label information is mostly unavailable in real-world applications when data evolves, we review the unsupervised approaches in this paper. We then present an interesting application example, i.e., forest re risk prediction, and conclude the paper with future research directions in this eld for researchers and industry.
Editing the Epigenome: Reshaping the Genomic Landscape
Authors: Holtzman Liad , Gersbach Charles A.
Published: May 2018

The eukaryotic epigenome has an instrumental role in determining and maintaining cell identity and function. Epigenetic components such as DNA methylation, histone tail modifications, chromatin accessibility, and DNA architecture are tightly correlated with central cellular processes, while their dysregulation manifests in aberrant gene expression and disease. The ability to specifically edit the epigenome holds the promise of enhancing understanding of how epigenetic modifications function and enabling manipulation of cell phenotype for research or therapeutic purposes. Genome engineering technologies use highly specific DNA-targeting tools to precisely deposit epigenetic changes in a locus-specific manner, creating diverse epigenome editing platforms. This review summarizes these technologies and insights from recent studies, describes the complex relationship between epigenetic components and gene regulation, and highlights caveats and promises of the emerging field of epigenome editing, including applications for translational purposes, such as epigenetic therapy and regenerative medicine.
Opportunities and Challenges for Big Data in Agricultural and Environmental Analysis
Authors: Weersink Alfons , Fraser Evan , Pannell David , Duncan Emily , Rotz Sarah
Published: May 2018

Agriculture stands on the cusp of a digital revolution, and the same technologies that created the Internet and are transforming medicine are now being applied in our farms and on our fields. Overall, this digital agricultural revolution is being driven by the low cost of collecting data on everything from soil conditions to animal health and crop development along with weather station data and data collected by drones and satellites. The promise of these technologies is more food, produced on less land, with fewer inputs and a smaller environmental footprint. At present, however, barriers to realizing this potential include a lack of ability to aggregate and interpret data in such a way that it results in useful decision support tools for farmers and the need to train farmers in how to use new tools. This article reviews the state of the literature on the promise and barriers to realizing the potential for Big Data to revolutionize agriculture.
Marketing as a Risk Management Mechanism with Applications in Agriculture, Resources, and Food Management
Authors: Heiman Amir , Hildebrandt Lutz
Published: May 2018

Marketing tools, in addition to their role in persuasion and serving as a bridge between production and consumers, reduce prepurchase risks. This role has received less attention in the literature. This review highlights marketing's role in reducing consumers’ purchasing risk. We present our approach, backed up with extensive literature review, beginning with a description of advertising, branding, and pricing that may serve as a signal of a product's quality. We then describe and analyze the role of product demonstrations, free product samples, and money-back guarantees (MBGs), which enable consumers to acquire direct experience before a final decision is made, in reducing risks. We briefly discuss product warranties and their relationship to MBGs. We demonstrate how marketing tools can help reduce the risk associated with the consumption of food products that contain genetically modified organisms, as well as help in marketing of agricultural products that vary in their levels of risk to buyers.
Globalization of Agriculture
Authors: Robinson Guy M.
Published: May 2018

The world's agrifood systems have been transformed by a process of globalization in which ever-closer functional integration of the world's economies has occurred, supported by the Internet, the rise of transnational corporations, and the removal of many barriers to trade and investment. This review outlines the key characteristics of globalization and then details the changes occurring to agriculture and the broader agrifood system. It addresses the worldwide spread of productivist, specialized, industrial-style farming methods and their consequences, both positive and negative. The review focuses on three key issues: the world's capability to produce enough food to feed humankind; the important roles played in shaping globalization by transnational corporations, global finance, and government policies; and the emerging challenges to globalization. The first of these addresses the current debate regarding whether it is possible to maintain ecological diversity while producing sufficient food to feed the world. The other issue acknowledges that outcomes of global processes are spatially uneven and strongly contested by forms of agriculture antithetical to the homogenized, capitalist, neoliberal model associated with globalization.
Activation of TRPV4 stimulates transepithelial ion flux in a porcine choroid plexus cell line
Authors: Preston Daniel , Simpson Stefanie , Halm Dan , Hochstetler Alexandra , Schwerk Christian , Schroten Horst , Blazer-Yost Bonnie L.
Published: May 2018

The choroid plexus (CP) epithelium plays a major role in the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A polarized cell line, the porcine CP-Riems (PCP-R) line, which exhibits many of the characteristics of the native epithelium, was used to study the effect of activation of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) cation channel found in the PCP-R cells as well as in the native epithelium. Ussing-style electrophysiological experiments showed that activation of TRPV4 with a specific agonist, GSK1016790A, resulted in an immediate increase in both transepithelial ion flux and conductance. These changes were inhibited by either of two distinct antagonists, HC067047 or RN1734. The change in conductance was reversible and did not involve disruption of epithelial junctional complexes. Activation of TRPV4 results in Ca2+ influx, therefore, we examined whether the electrophysiological changes were the result of secondary activation of Ca2+-sensitive channels. PCP-R cells contain two Ca2+-activated K+ channels, the small conductance 2 (SK2) and the intermediate conductance (IK) channels. Based on inhibitor studies, the former is not involved in the TRPV4-mediated electrophysiological changes whereas one of the three isoforms of the IK channel (KCNN4c) may play a role in the apical secretion of K+. Blocking the activity of this IK isoform with TRAM34 inhibited the TRPV4-mediated change in net transepithelial ion flux and the increased conductance. These studies implicate TRPV4 as a hub protein in the control of CSF production through stimulation by multiple effectors resulting in transepithelial ion and subsequent water movement.
Bisphenol A and microglia: could microglia be responsive to this environmental contaminant during neural development?
Authors: Rosin Jessica M. , Kurrasch Deborah M.
Published: May 2018

There is a growing interest in the functional role of microglia in the developing brain. In our laboratory, we have become particularly intrigued as to whether fetal microglia in the embryonic brain are susceptible to maternal challenges in utero (e.g., maternal infection, stress) and, if so, whether their precocious activation could then adversely influence brain development. One such challenge that is newly arising in this field is whether microglia might be downstream targets to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as the plasticizer bisphenol A (BPA), which functions in part by mimicking estrogen structure and function. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that gestational exposure to BPA has adverse effects on brain development, although the exact mechanisms are still emerging. Given that microglia express estrogen receptors and steroid-producing enzymes, microglia might be an unappreciated target of BPA. Mechanistically, we propose that BPA binding to estrogen receptors within microglia initiates transcription of downstream target genes, which then leads to activation of microglia that can then perhaps adversely influence brain development. Here, we first briefly outline the current understanding of how microglia may influence brain development and then describe how this literature overlaps with our understanding of BPA’s effects during similar time points. We also outline the current literature demonstrating that BPA exposure affects microglia. We conclude by discussing our thoughts on the mechanisms through which exposure to BPA could disrupt normal microglia functions, ultimately affecting brain development that could potentially lead to lasting behavioral effects and perhaps even neuroendocrine diseases such as obesity.
Mature enteroendocrine cells contribute to basal and pathological stem cell dynamics in the small intestine
Authors: Sei Yoshitatsu , Feng Jianying , Samsel Leigh , White Ayla , Zhao Xilin , Yun Sajung , Citrin Deborah , McCoy J. Philip , Sundaresan Sinju , Hayes Michael M. , Merchant Juanita L. , Leiter Andrew , Wank Stephen A.
Published: May 2018

Lgr5-expressing intestinal stem cells (ISCs) maintain continuous and rapid generation of the intestinal epithelium. Here, we present evidence that dedifferentiation of committed enteroendocrine cells (EECs) contributes to maintenance of the epithelium under both basal conditions and in response to injury. Lineage-tracing studies identified a subset of EECs that reside at +4 position for more than 2 wk, most of which were BrdU-label-retaining cells. Under basal conditions, cells derived from these EECs grow from the bottom of the crypt to generate intestinal epithelium according to neutral drift kinetics that is consistent with dedifferentiation of mature EECs to ISCs. The lineage tracing of EECs demonstrated reserve stem cell properties in response to radiation-induced injury with the generation of reparative EEC-derived epithelial patches. Finally, the enterochromaffin (EC) cell was the predominant EEC type participating in these stem cell dynamics. These results provide novel insights into the +4 reserve ISC hypothesis, stem cell dynamics of the intestinal epithelium, and in the development of EC-derived small intestinal tumors.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The current manuscript demonstrating that a subset of mature enteroendocrine cells (EECs), predominantly enterochromaffin cells, dedifferentiates to fully functional intestinal stem cells (ISCs) is novel, timely, and important. These cells dedifferentiate to ISCs not only in response to injury but also under basal homeostatic conditions. These novel findings provide a mechanism in which a specified cell can dedifferentiate and contribute to normal tissue plasticity as well as the development of EEC-derived intestinal tumors under pathologic conditions.
miR-155 accelerates proliferation of mouse hepatocytes during liver regeneration by directly targeting SOCS1
Authors: Lin Xia , Chen Li , Li Haiyan , Liu Yu , Guan Yanhong , Li Xiaoyan , Jia Zhenchang , Lin Xiaolin , Jia Junshuang , Sun Yan , Xiao Dong
Published: May 2018

Liver regeneration after two-thirds partial hepatectomy (PH) is a clinically significant repair process for restoring proper liver architecture. Although microRNA-155 (miR-155) has been found to serve as a crucial microRNA regulator that controls liver cell function and proliferation, little is known about its specific role in the regenerating liver. Using a mouse model with miR-155 overexpression or miR-155 knockout, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of miR-155 in liver regeneration. We found a marked induction of miR-155 in C57BL/6 mice after PH. Furthermore, RL-m155 mice showed enhanced liver regeneration as a result of accelerated progression of hepatocytes into the cell cycle, mainly through an increase in cyclin levels. However, proliferation of hepatocytes was delayed in miR-155-deficient livers. Expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) was dramatically downregulated in the process of liver regeneration, and enhancement of SOCS1 contributed to impaired proliferation of hepatocytes. Additionally, in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that adenovirus- or adeno-associated virus-mediated overexpression of SOCS1 attenuated improved liver regeneration induced by miR-155 overexpression. Our study shows that miR-155 is a pro-proliferative regulator in liver regeneration by facilitating the cell cycle and directly targeting SOCS1.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our findings suggest a microRNA-155 (miR-155)-mediated positive regulation pattern in liver regeneration. A series of in vivo and in vitro studies showed that miR-155 upregulation enhanced partial hepatectomy-induced proliferation of hepatocytes by promoting the cell cycle without inducing DNA damage or apoptosis. Suppressor of cytokine signaling 1, a target gene of miR-155, antagonized the proliferation-promoting effect of miR-155. Therefore, pharmacological intervention targeting miR-155 may be therapeutically beneficial in various liver diseases.
An enhancedLactobacillus reuteribiofilm formulation that increases protection against experimental necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Olson Jacob K. , Navarro Jason B. , Allen Jacob M. , McCulloh Christopher J. , Mashburn-Warren Lauren , Wang Yijie , Varaljay Vanessa A. , Bailey Michael T. , Goodman Steven D. , Besner Gail E.
Published: May 2018

One significant drawback of current probiotic therapy for the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the need for at least daily administration because of poor probiotic persistence after enteral administration, increasing the risk of the probiotic bacteria causing bacteremia or sepsis if the intestines are already compromised. We previously showed that the effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri ( Lr) in preventing NEC is enhanced when Lr is grown as a biofilm on the surface of dextranomer microspheres (DM). Here we sought to test the efficacy of Lr administration by manipulating the Lr biofilm state with the addition of biofilm-promoting substances (sucrose and maltose) to DM or by mutating the Lr gtfW gene (encoding an enzyme central to biofilm production). Using an animal model of NEC, we determined that Lr adhered to sucrose- or maltose-loaded DM significantly reduced histologic injury, improved host survival, decreased intestinal permeability, reduced intestinal inflammation, and altered the gut microbiome compared with Lr adhered to unloaded DM. These effects were abolished when DM or GtfW were absent from the Lr inoculum. This demonstrates that a single dose of Lr in its biofilm state decreases NEC incidence. Importantly, preloading DM with sucrose or maltose further enhances Lr protection against NEC in a GtfW-dependent fashion, demonstrating the tunability of the approach and the potential to use other cargos to enhance future probiotic formulations.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Previous clinical trials of probiotics to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis have had variable results. In these studies, probiotics were delivered in their planktonic, free-living form. We have developed a novel probiotic delivery system in which Lactobacillus reuteri (Lr) is delivered in its biofilm state. In a model of experimental necrotizing enterocolitis, this formulation significantly reduces intestinal inflammation and permeability, improves survival, and preserves the natural gut microflora compared with the administration of Lr in its free-living form.
Expression of lysophosphatidic acid receptor 5 is necessary for the regulation of intestinal Na+/H+ exchanger 3 by lysophosphatidic acid in vivo
Authors: Jenkin Kayte A. , He Peijian , Yun C. Chris
Published: May 2018

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive lipid molecule, which regulates a broad range of pathophysiological processes. Recent studies have demonstrated that LPA modulates electrolyte flux in the intestine, and its potential as an antidiarrheal agent has been suggested. Of six LPA receptors, LPA5 is highly expressed in the intestine. Recent studies by our group have demonstrated activation of Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) by LPA5. However, much of what has been elucidated was achieved using colonic cell lines that were transfected to express LPA5. In the current study, we engineered a mouse that lacks LPA5 in intestinal epithelial cells, Lpar5ΔIEC, and investigated the role of LPA5 in NHE3 regulation and fluid absorption in vivo. The intestine of Lpar5ΔIEC mice appeared morphologically normal, and the stool frequency and fecal water content were unchanged compared with wild-type mice. Basal rates of NHE3 activity and fluid absorption and total NHE3 expression were not changed in Lpar5ΔIEC mice. However, LPA did not activate NHE3 activity or fluid absorption in Lpar5ΔIEC mice, providing direct evidence for the regulatory role of LPA5. NHE3 activation involves trafficking of NHE3 from the terminal web to microvilli, and this mobilization of NHE3 by LPA was abolished in Lpar5ΔIEC mice. Dysregulation of NHE3 was specific to LPA, and insulin and cholera toxin were able to stimulate and inhibit NHE3, respectively, in both wild-type and Lpar5ΔIEC mice. The current study for the first time demonstrates the necessity of LPA5 in LPA-mediated stimulation of NHE3 in vivo.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study is the first to assess the role of LPA5 in NHE3 regulation and fluid absorption in vivo using a mouse that lacks LPA5 in intestinal epithelial cells, Lpar5ΔIEC. Basal rates of NHE3 activity and fluid absorption, and total NHE3 expression were not changed in Lpar5ΔIEC mice. However, LPA did not activate NHE3 activity or fluid absorption in Lpar5ΔIEC mice, providing direct evidence for the regulatory role of LPA5.