bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The question‐answer adjacency pair in dementia discourse
Authors: Varela Suárez Ana
Published: September 2017

This paper analyses how people with dementia react to the question‐answer adjacency pair. This work aims to (a), verify if the ability to answer questions persists until the final stages of dementia (b), check if the number of preferred and relevant answers decreases progressively and (c) prove the compensatory strategies they use to answer questions correctly. Ten people with different types of dementia were videotaped while talking about their lives. The findings suggest the ability to complete the question‐adjacency pair is preserved until the severe stage, when the number of answered questions decreases. However, the number of preferred and relevant answers decreases as the disease progresses. Requests for clarification, vague responses and recognizing the communicative problems were the main communicative strategies used to continue with conversation.
An improved method for the measurement of 3‐monochloropropanediol esters by matrix solid‐phase dispersion supported liquid–liquid extraction
Authors: Jiao Bo , Hu Hui , Shi Aimin , Liu Hongzhi , Liu Li , Wang Qiang , Fu Wusheng , Adhikari Benu
Published: September 2017

3‐Monochloropropanediol (3‐MCPD) esters are contaminants produced from the high‐temperature processing of edible oils. The accurate measurement of 3‐MCPD using an easy‐to‐follow and reliable method that uses a readily available instrument is important. Here, we report an acid transesterification heptafluorobutyrylimidazole (HFBI) derivatisation method for the accurate measurement of 3‐MCPD esters in edible oils. We developed a dispersed matrix solid‐phase supported liquid–liquid extraction (DMSP‐SLE) system to remove impurities. Both the transesterification and DMSP‐SLE conditions were optimised. A good linear relationship was obtained within the range of 0.05–10 mg kg−1 (R2 ≥ 0.999) in both blank solvent and an oil sample. The limit of detection was 20.36 μg kg−1. The average recovery of the 3‐MCPD esters spiked at 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg kg−1 into a blank oil matrix was in a range from 105.09 ± 2.77% to 120.16 ± 10.88%. The method we developed was further confirmed by performing detection on a Food Analysis Performance Assessment Scheme (FAPAS) sample.
Comparison of vacuum impregnation and soaking techniques for addition of the probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus to minimally processed melon
Authors: de Oliveira Patrícia Martins , Ramos Afonso Mota , Martins Eliane Maurício Furtado , Vieira Érica Nascif Rufino , Soares Ariana de Souza , de Noronha Marcel Cardoso
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the vacuum impregnation (VI) and soaking methods in the addition of Lactobacillus acidophilusLA‐3 to minimally processed melon (MPM). The melons were washed, sanitised in chlorine solution (200 mg L−1), peeled and cutted into cubes. Lactobacillus acidophilusLA‐3 (1.4 × 1010 CFU g−1) were added to the MPM through both techniques. The L. acidophilusLA‐3 count in MPM was similar to those commonly found in dairy products having probiotic claim, but VI was more efficient than soaking in maintaining the viability (8.61 and 7.98 Log CFU g−1, respectively). The pH, acidity and soluble solids were not affected by probiotic culture and the incorporation technique; however, the VI affected the firmness of fruit. The MPM was within Brazilian standards for their microbiological characteristics. MPM may be used as a carrier of probiotic bacteria, being one more alternative for individuals who consume probiotic products.
Effect of Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) fructooligosaccharide purification technique using activated charcoal or ion exchange fixed bed column on recovery, purity and sugar content
Authors: Campos David , Mescua Lilid , Aguilar‐Galvez Ana , Chirinos Rosana , Pedreschi Romina
Published: September 2017

A rich in FOS and simple sugar yacon extract was clarified and decoloured and subsequently purified in an activated charcoal column at 25 and 40 °C using two or three stepwise elution with yields of 72.0–86.7% and 90–92.4% purity. Best results were obtained at 25 °C and two stepwise elution, with yield and purity of 81.5% and 92% but 9% sucrose and no glucose and fructose. Different cationic exchange resins on a clarified and demineralised extract at 25 and 60 °C had yields and purity of 73.1–99.4% and 75.0–88.2%, respectively. Best results were obtained with Diaion UBK530Na at 60 °C (99.4% yield and 88.2% purity) but 1.6, 2.7 and 7.5% of fructose, glucose and sucrose. The by‐product was rich in sugars (59–60.1% fructose, 28.3–32.8% glucose, 7.2–8.4% sucrose) and could be used by the feed and food industry.
Outcomes of endovascular treatment for acute large‐vessel ischaemic stroke more than 6 h after symptom onset
Authors: Motyer R. , Kok H. K. , Asadi H. , O'Hare A. , Brennan P. , Power S. , Looby S. , Nicholson P. , Williams D. , Murphy S. , Hill M. D. , Goyal M. , McManus J. , O'Brien P. , Thornton J.
Published: September 2017

Background and Objectives

Benefit from endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for large‐vessel occlusion (LVO) acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) is well demonstrated. Furthermore, emerging evidence supports efficacy in appropriately selected patients treated beyond current recommendations of 6 h. We evaluated clinical outcomes in patients undergoing late EVT at our institution.

Methods

Retrospective review of prospectively collected clinical database on 355 patients who underwent EVT for LVO AIS. Data collected consisted of patient demographics, radiological findings and outcome details. Outcomes, including 90‐day functional status, recanalization, symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH) and 90‐day mortality, for patients undergoing EVT <6 h, >6 h, and >7.3 h, were compared.

Results

A total of 355 patients underwent EVT for LVO AIS at our institution during the review period, with 74 (21%) patients treated ≥6 h from symptom onset. Successful recanalization was achieved in 285 (80%) patients, with 228 (81%) achieving a mTICI ≥2b in the <6 h group, and 57 (77%) in the >6 h group (P = 0.429). Ninety‐day functional independence (mRS 0–2) was achieved in 162 (46%) patients, with 130 (46%) achieving a mRS of 0–2 in the <6 h group, and 32 (43%) in the >6 h group (P = 0.643). No significant differences were found in rates of sICH or 90‐day mortality. No significant differences in functional independence, recanalization rates, sICH or mortality were identified in patients treated with EVT >7.3 h compared to <7.3 h.

Conclusions

In appropriately selected patients, EVT >6 h was associated with comparable outcomes to those treated <6 h. These data support a physiological approach to patient selection.
Bullying and HIV Risk Among High School Teenagers: The Mediating Role of Teen Dating Violence
Authors: Okumu Moses , Mengo Cecilia , Ombayo Bernadette , Small Eusebius
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Teen dating violence (TDV), bullying, and HIV risk behaviors are public health concerns that impact adolescents in the United States. National estimates reveal high rates of these risk behaviors among high school students. Based on theoretical and empirical evidence, we hypothesized that experiencing teen dating violence (sexual and physical) would mediate the impact of bullying on HIV risk.

METHODS

Data were from the 2013 National Youth Behavior Risk Surveillance Survey (YRBSS) among students who answered questions on bullying, TDV, and HIV risk (N = 13,571). The YRBSS is conducted biennially among 9th‐ to 12th‐grade students nationally. We used multiple regression analysis and Hayes' SPSS process macro to examine the 2 study hypotheses.

RESULTS

Findings from bivariate analysis suggest an association between bullying and HIV risk. The study also found associations between physical, sexual teen dating violence and HIV risk. Results also indicate that both physical and sexual teen dating violence mediate the association between bullying and HIV risk.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that multidimensional interventions should be developed to reduce the rate of teen dating violence and combat bullying as a preventative method for HIV risk among high school students.
A Scoping Review to Address the Culture of Concussion in Youth and High School Sports
Authors: Sarmiento Kelly , Donnell Zoe , Hoffman Rosanne
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

In 2013, the National Academy of Sciences emphasized the need to develop, implement, and evaluate effective large‐scale educational strategies to improve the culture of concussion in youth and high school sports. In support of this recommendation, in this article we summarize research on factors that contribute to the culture of concussion.

METHODS

We conducted the literature search using 7 electronic databases. We used a scoping review method to identify studies that addressed knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, use of educational resources, and interventions related to concussion among young athletes, coaches, and parents.

RESULTS

Of the 33 articles identified, most focused on concussion education (N = 15), followed by knowledge (N = 13), behaviors (N = 13), and attitudes (N = 5). Three studies addressed multiple study populations.

CONCLUSIONS

The rapid spread of concussion education and awareness efforts has outpaced research on effective strategies to improve knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors that contribute to the culture of concussion. Further research is critical to inform the development and implementation of large‐scale educational efforts. This research should incorporate rigorous study designs; be inclusive of diverse ages, socioeconomic status, and racial/ethnic groups; and examine opportunities to improve behavioral outcomes around concussion prevention, reporting, and management.
Accuracy of indirect method in detection of false intent
Authors: Ulatowska Joanna
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Two studies were conducted to assess of the accuracy of an indirect method used to detect lies about past behaviour and intentions.

Methods

In Experiment 1, participants (N = 123) assessed the veracity (direct condition) or cognitive effort (indirect condition) of interviewees who had planned or taken part in mock academic misconduct and then lied or told the truth about their intentions or past activities. In Experiment 2, 33 participants assessed the veracity of interviews on true and false intentions answering a direct question and three indirect questions.

Results

As predicted, the indirect method was equally effective in detecting lies about past activities and intentions. The accuracy of this method was not reduced by asking direct and indirect questions together.

Conclusions

The experiments provided further evidence that the indirect method of detecting deception is accurate and can also be used to detect lies about intent.
Fine‐tuning the ‘plant domestication‐reduced defense’ hypothesis: specialist vs generalist herbivores
Authors: Gaillard Mickaël D. P. , Glauser Gaétan , Robert Christelle A. M. , Turlings Ted C. J.
Published: September 2017

Domesticated plants are assumed to have weakened chemical defenses. We argue, however, that artificial selection will have maintained defense traits against specialized herbivores that have coexisted with the crops throughout their domestication.

We assessed the performance of eight species of insect herbivores from three feeding guilds on six European maize lines and six populations of their wild ancestor, teosinte. A metabolomics approach was used in an attempt to identify compounds responsible for observed differences in insect performance.

Insects consistently performed better on maize than on teosinte. As hypothesized, this difference was greater for generalist herbivores that are normally not found on teosinte. We also found clear differences in defense metabolites among the different genotypes, but none that consistently correlated with differences in performance. Concentrations of benzoxazinoids, the main chemical defense in maize, tended to be higher in leaves of teosinte, but the reverse was true for the roots.

It appears that chemical defenses that target specialized insects are still present at higher concentrations in cultivated maize than compounds that are more effective against generalists. These weakened broad‐spectrum defenses in crops may explain the successes of novel pests.
The miR156‐SPL4 module predominantly regulates aerial axillary bud formation and controls shoot architecture
Authors: Gou Jiqing , Fu Chunxiang , Liu Sijia , Tang Chaorong , Debnath Smriti , Flanagan Amy , Ge Yaxin , Tang Yuhong , Jiang Qingzhen , Larson Preston R. , Wen Jiangqi , Wang Zeng‐Yu
Published: September 2017

Grasses possess basal and aerial axillary buds. Previous studies have largely focused on basal bud (tiller) formation but scarcely touched on aerial buds, which may lead to aerial branch development.

Genotypes with and without aerial buds were identified in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), a dedicated bioenergy crop. Bud development was characterized using scanning electron microscopy. Microarray, RNA‐seq and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) were used to identify regulators of bud formation. Gene function was characterized by down‐regulation and overexpression.

Overexpression of miR156 induced aerial bud formation in switchgrass. Various analyses revealed that SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN LIKE4 (SPL4), one of the miR156 targets, directly regulated aerial axillary bud initiation. Down‐regulation of SPL4 promoted aerial bud formation and increased basal buds, while overexpression of SPL4 seriously suppressed bud formation and tillering. RNA‐seq and RT‐qPCR identified potential downstream genes of SPL4.

Unlike all previously reported genes acting as activators of basal bud initiation, SPL4 acts as a suppressor for the formation of both aerial and basal buds. The miR156‐SPL4 module predominantly regulates aerial bud initiation and partially controls basal bud formation. Genetic manipulation of SPL4 led to altered plant architecture with increased branching, enhanced regrowth after cutting and improved biomass yield.
Governance gaps in eradicating forced labor: From global to domestic supply chains
Authors: Crane Andrew , LeBaron Genevieve , Allain Jean , Behbahani Laya
Published: September 2017

Abstract

A growing body of scholarship analyzes the emergence and resilience of forced labor in developing countries within global value chains. However, little is known about how forced labor arises within domestic supply chains concentrated within national borders, producing products for domestic consumption. We conduct one of the first studies of forced labor in domestic supply chains, through a cross‐industry comparison of the regulatory gaps surrounding forced labor in the United Kingdom. We find that understanding the dynamics of forced labor in domestic supply chains requires us to conceptually modify the global value chain framework to understand similarities and differences across these contexts. We conclude that addressing the governance gaps that surround forced labor will require scholars and policymakers to carefully refine their thinking about how we might design operative governance that effectively engages with local variation.
World society and the natural environment
Authors: Shorette Kristen , Henderson Kent , Sommer Jamie M. , Longhofer Wesley
Published: September 2017

We review the world society approach to explaining macrohistorical change generally and as it relates to the natural environment specifically. Our review includes work describing the rise of the environmental world society as well as empirical evidence of the consequences of national ties to world society for policy adoption, practices, and individual attitudes at the national level. Additionally, we suggest the application of world society theory to state and substate structures. Throughout the review, we situate the world society literature in relationship to work in the fields of cross‐national comparative and environmental sociology from a variety of other perspectives. We take a forward‐looking approach to our review of theoretical and empirical work in the field and consider the implications for normative change and resistance to prevailing world cultural norms. We conclude with a discussion of the resurgence of nationalism especially as it relates to antienvironmentalism.
Evaluation of the analgesic and pharmacokinetic properties of transdermally administered fentanyl in goats
Authors: Burke Megan J. , Soma Lawrence R. , Boston Raymond C. , Rudy Jeffery A. , Schaer Thomas P.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Evaluate the analgesic properties and pharmacokinetics of transdermal fentanyl patches (TFPs) in goats.

Design

Prospective, randomized study.

Setting

Preclinical Testing Facility at a University Teaching Hospital.

Animals

Thirty‐four adult female Boer‐cross goats.

Interventions

Goats underwent surgery as part of a concurrent orthopedic research study. Twelve hours prior to surgery, each goat received a TFP (target dosage of 2.5 μg/kg/h), or a placebo patch with analgesia provided by buprenorphine (0.01 mg/kg, IM, q 6 h). Patches were removed after 72 hours. Blood was sampled at specified intervals, up to 84 hours following TFP placement. Plasma concentrations of fentanyl (FEN) were determined using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Postoperative pain assessments were performed by two independent blinded observers.

Measurements and Main Results

TFPs were applied at a mean (± standard deviation, SD) dose of 2.54 ± 0.36 μg/kg/h. No adverse events occurred. Pain scores between TFP and BUP groups were not significantly different at any time point. Mean plasma FEN concentration (± SD) 2 hours following patch application was 1.06 ± 0.85 ng/mL, and remained above 0.5 ng/mL for 40 hours. Maximum mean plasma FEN concentration (Cmax) was 1.84 (ranging from 0.81 to 3.35) ng/mL with average time to maximum concentration (Tmax) of 12 hours after patch application.

Conclusions

TFP resulted in consistent FEN absorption and plasma concentrations within the human and ovine therapeutic ranges. Pain scores for goats administered TFP were not different than those administered buprenorphine. Ease of administration, duration of analgesia, and decreased dosing frequency make TFPs an attractive option for pain management in goats.
Gold microelectrodes fabricated by a print-and-imprint method using laser-drilled polyimide through-hole masks
Authors: Nakamura Takahiro , Seki Kento , Nagase Kazuro , Nakagawa Masaru
Published: September 2017

Multiple sets of gold (Au) four-terminal microelectrodes comprising 100 μm-scale pad electrodes and 20 μm-wide lead lines were fabricated on a silicon substrate by a print-and-imprint method involving laser drilling and screen printing. Laser drilling of 12.5 μm-thick polyimide (PI) sheets with a picosecond-pulse laser enabled the fabrication of PI membranes with designed patterns of through holes. The through holes had a frustum shape, and the average hole diameters on both the laser entry and exit sides of the PI films enlarged with an increase in the applied repetition rate. The hole patterns designed with submicrometer position accuracy were prepared using a linear motor stage. Liquid ultraviolet (UV)-curable resin, exhibiting a high viscosity (11.0 Pa s) and a high dry-etching resistance to argon (Ar) ion beam milling after UV curing, was placed onto a substrate surface as droplets by screen printing, corresponding to the hole patterns of the PI through-hole masks. The average volume of the liquid droplets could be tuned in the range of 0.02–0.54 pl, which depended on the volumes of the laser-drilled frustum holes. The volumes of liquid resin necessary to fill the mold recesses were adjusted site-selectively by the number of resin droplets printed on a metal-deposited substrate surface. Fluorescence microscopy with a fluorescent dye-doped resin indicated that the imprinted resist patterns had a residual layer thickness in the range of 15–28 nm. The Au electrodes with a 30 nm-thickness could be fabricated by subsequent Ar ion beam milling and removal of a sacrificial metal layer.
Longitudinal elastic wave control by pre-deforming semi-linear materials
Authors: Guo Dengke , Chen Yi , Chang Zheng , Hu Gengkai
Published: September 2017

An incremental wave superimposed on a pre-deformed hyper-elastic material perceives an elastic media with the instantaneous modulus of the current material. This offers a new route with a broadband feature to control elastic waves by purposely creating finite deformation field. This study proves that the governing equation of a semi-linear material under a symmetric pre-deformation condition maintains the form invariance for longitudinal wave, so the longitudinal wave control can be made by transformation method without the constraint condition on principle stretches; however, this is not the case for shear waves. Therefore, pre-deforming a semi-linear material provides a potential method for treating longitudinal and shear waves differently. Examples with elastic wave control and band structure shift through pre-deforming a semi-linear material are provided to illustrate this finding. Finally, a one-dimensional spring lattice is proposed to mimic a semi-linear material, and the dispersion relation for longitudinal waves in a sandwich structure with such spring lattice is shown to be invariant during elongation, confirming the result found based on a homogeneous semi-linear material. These results may stimulate researches on designing new hyper-elastic microstructures as well as designing new devices based on pre-deformed hyper-elastic materials.
Efficacy of a New Recrystallized Enrofloxacin Hydrochloride-Dihydrate against Leptospirosis in a Hamster Model
Authors: Carrascosa Alma , Gutierrez Lilia , De la Peña Alejandro , Candanosa Irma E. , Tapia Graciela , Sumano Hector
Published: September 2017

A trial on Syrian hamsters (
Mesocricetus auratus
) infected with
Leptospira interrogans
serovar
Canicola
was established to compare treatment efficacies of daily intramuscular (i.m.) injections of either 10 mg/kg of 5% enrofloxacin (Baytril [BE]; Bayer Animal Health, Mexico) or the same dose of enrofloxacin hydrochloride-dihydrate (enro-C). Hamsters were experimentally infected via the oral submucosa with 400 microorganisms/animal, in a sequential time schedule aligned to the initial treatment day, and were treated in groups as follows: a group treated with 5% enrofloxacin daily for 7 days after 24 h of infection (group BE
24
); a group treated as described for group BE
24
but with enro-C (enro-C
24
); a group also treated with 5% enrofloxacin but starting at 72 h after infection (BE
74
); a group treated as described for group BE
74
but with injection of enro-C (enro-C
74
). An untreated-uninfected control group (group CG
−
) and an infected-untreated control group (group CG
+
) were assembled (
n
= 18 in all groups). Weights and temperatures of the hamsters were monitored daily for 28 days. After hamsters were euthanatized or following death, necropsy, histopathology, macroscopic agglutination tests (MAT), bacterial culture, and PCR were performed. The mortality rates were 38.8% in group BE
24
and 100% in group BE
74
. No mortality was observed in group enro-C
24
, and 11.1% mortality was recorded in group enro-C
74
. The mortality rates in groups CG
+
and CG
−
were 100% and zero, respectively. Combined necropsy and histopathologic findings revealed signs of septicemia and organ damage in groups BE
24
, BE
72
, and CG
+
. Groups enro-C
24
and CG
−
showed no lesions. Moderated lesions were registered in 3 hamsters in group enro-C
72
. MAT results were positive in 83.3% of BE
24
hamsters (83.3%) and 100% of BE
72
and CG
+
hamsters; MAT results were positive in 16.7% in group Enro-C
24
and 38.9% in group enro-C
72
. Only 4/18 were PCR positive in group enro-C
72
and only 1 in group enro-C
24
(
P
< 0.05). It can be concluded that enro-C may be a viable option to treat leptospirosis in hamsters and that this may be the case in other species.
N
-Acetylglucosamine-1-Phosphate Transferase, WecA, as a Validated Drug Target in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Huszár Stanislav , Singh Vinayak , Polčicová Alica , Baráth Peter , Barrio María Belén , Lagrange Sophie , Leblanc Véronique , Nacy Carol A. , Mizrahi Valerie , Mikušová Katarína
Published: September 2017

The mycobacterial phosphoglycosyltransferase WecA, which initiates arabinogalactan biosynthesis in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, has been proposed as a target of the caprazamycin derivative CPZEN-45, a preclinical drug candidate for the treatment of tuberculosis. In this report, we describe the functional characterization of mycobacterial WecA and confirm the essentiality of its encoding gene in
M. tuberculosis
by demonstrating that the transcriptional silencing of
wecA
is bactericidal
in vitro
and in macrophages. Silencing
wecA
also conferred hypersensitivity of
M. tuberculosis
to the drug tunicamycin, confirming its target selectivity for WecA in whole cells. Simple radiometric assays performed with mycobacterial membranes and commercially available substrates allowed chemical validation of other putative WecA inhibitors and resolved their selectivity toward WecA versus another attractive cell wall target, translocase I, which catalyzes the first membrane step in the biosynthesis of peptidoglycan. These assays and the mutant strain described herein will be useful for identifying potential antitubercular leads by screening chemical libraries for novel WecA inhibitors.
High-Level Resistance to Colistin Mediated by Various Mutations in the
crrB
Gene among Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Jayol Aurélie , Nordmann Patrice , Brink Adrian , Villegas Maria-Virginia , Dubois Véronique , Poirel Laurent
Published: September 2017

Mutations in
crrAB
genes encoding a two-component regulator involved in modifications of lipopolysaccharide were searched for among a collection of colistin-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolates. Four isolates, respectively, producing carbapenemases NDM-1, OXA-181, or KPC-2 showed mutated CrrB proteins compared with those in wild-type strains. Complementation assays with a wild-type CrrB protein restored the susceptibility to colistin in all cases, confirming the involvement of the identified substitutions in the resistance phenotype.
The Global Regulatory Cyclic AMP Receptor Protein (CRP) Controls Multifactorial Fluoroquinolone Susceptibility in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Kary Stefani C. , Yoneda Joshua R. K. , Olshefsky Stephen C. , Stewart Laura A. , West Steven B. , Cameron Andrew D. S.
Published: September 2017

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are prescribed for the treatment of
Salmonella enterica
infections, but resistance to this family of antibiotics is growing. Here we report that loss of the global regulatory protein cyclic AMP (cAMP) receptor protein (CRP) or its allosteric effector, cAMP, reduces susceptibility to fluoroquinolones. A Δ
crp
mutation was synergistic with the primary fluoroquinolone resistance allele
gyrA83
, thus able to contribute to clinically relevant resistance. Decreased susceptibility to fluoroquinolones could be partly explained by decreased expression of the outer membrane porin genes
ompA
and
ompF
with a concomitant increase in the expression of the ciprofloxacin resistance efflux pump gene
acrB
in Δ
crp
cells. Expression of
gyrAB
, which encode the DNA supercoiling enzyme GyrAB, which is blocked by fluoroquinolones, and expression of
topA
, which encodes the dominant supercoiling-relaxing enzyme topoisomerase I, were unchanged in Δ
crp
cells. Yet Δ
crp
cells maintained a more relaxed state of DNA supercoiling, correlating with an observed increase in topoisomerase IV (
parCE
) expression. Surprisingly, the Δ
crp
mutation had the unanticipated effect of enhancing fitness in the presence of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which can be explained by the observation that exposure of Δ
crp
cells to ciprofloxacin had the counterintuitive effect of restoring wild-type levels of DNA supercoiling. Consistent with this, Δ
crp
cells did not become elongated or induce the SOS response when challenged with ciprofloxacin. These findings implicate the combined action of multiple drug resistance mechanisms in Δ
crp
cells: reduced permeability and elevated efflux of fluoroquinolones coupled with a relaxed DNA supercoiling state that buffers cells against GyrAB inhibition by fluoroquinolones.
Revisiting the Role of Csp Family Proteins in Regulating Clostridium difficile Spore Germination
Authors: Kevorkian Yuzo , Shen Aimee
Published: September 2017

Clostridium difficile
causes considerable health care-associated gastrointestinal disease that is transmitted by its metabolically dormant spore form. Upon entering the gut,
C. difficile
spores germinate and outgrow to produce vegetative cells that release disease-causing toxins.
C. difficile
spore germination depends on the Csp family of (pseudo)proteases and the cortex hydrolase SleC. The CspC pseudoprotease functions as a bile salt germinant receptor that activates the protease CspB, which in turn proteolytically activates the SleC zymogen. Active SleC degrades the protective cortex layer, allowing spores to outgrow and resume metabolism. We previously showed that the CspA pseudoprotease domain, which is initially produced as a fusion to CspB, controls the incorporation of the CspC germinant receptor in mature spores. However, study of the individual Csp proteins has been complicated by the polar effects of TargeTron-based gene disruption on the
cspBA-cspC
operon. To overcome these limitations, we have used
pyrE
-based allelic exchange to create individual deletions of the regions encoding CspB, CspA, CspBA, and CspC in strain 630Δ
erm
. Our results indicate that stable CspA levels in sporulating cells depend on CspB and confirm that CspA maximizes CspC incorporation into spores. Interestingly, we observed that
csp
and
sleC
mutants spontaneously germinate more frequently in 630Δ
erm
than equivalent mutants in the JIR8094 and UK1 strain backgrounds. Analyses of this phenomenon suggest that only a subpopulation of
C. difficile
630Δ
erm
spores can spontaneously germinate, in contrast with
Bacillus subtilis
spores. We also show that
C. difficile
clinical isolates that encode truncated CspBA variants have sequencing errors that actually produce full-length CspBA.

IMPORTANCE
Clostridium difficile
is a leading cause of health care-associated infections. Initiation of
C. difficile
infection depends on spore germination, a process controlled by Csp family (pseudo)proteases. The CspC pseudoprotease is a germinant receptor that senses bile salts and activates the CspB protease, which activates a hydrolase required for germination. Previous work implicated the CspA pseudoprotease in controlling CspC incorporation into spores but relied on plasmid-based overexpression. Here we have used allelic exchange to study the functions of CspB and CspA. We determined that CspA production and/or stability depends on CspB and confirmed that CspA maximizes CspC incorporation into spores. Our data also suggest that a subpopulation of
C. difficile
spores spontaneously germinates in the absence of bile salt germinants and/or Csp proteins.
Development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Is Linked to a Longitudinal Restructuring of the Gut Metagenome in Mice
Authors: Sharpton Thomas , Lyalina Svetlana , Luong Julie , Pham Joey , Deal Emily M. , Armour Courtney , Gaulke Christopher , Sanjabi Shomyseh , Pollard Katherine S.
Published: September 2017

IBD patients harbor distinct microbial communities with functional capabilities different from those seen with healthy people. But is this cause or effect? Answering this question requires data on changes in gut microbial communities leading to disease onset. By performing weekly metagenomic sequencing and mixed-effects modeling on an established mouse model of IBD, we identified several functional pathways encoded by the gut microbiome that covary with host immune status. These pathways are novel early biomarkers that may either enable microbes to live inside an inflamed gut or contribute to immune activation in IBD mice. Future work will validate the potential roles of these microbial pathways in host-microbe interactions and human disease. This study was novel in its longitudinal design and focus on microbial pathways, which provided new mechanistic insights into the role of gut microbes in IBD development.
Is external fixation a better way than plaster to supplement K-wires in non-comminuted distal radius fractures?
Authors: Athar Sajjad M , Ashwood Neil , Aerealis George , Bain Gregory I
Published: September 2017

Background

Distal radius fractures represent about one-sixth of all fractures. There is still no consensus on the treatment of this fracture. We have several issues to assess and address; one of them is the fixation method. We tried to compare the effectiveness of two methods of stabilisation of distal radial fracture. Comparison between the techniques of Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation with plaster and K-wire fixation with external fixation (Ex-Fix) was undertaken to assess which treatment modality gives better results in patients with distal radius fracture Frykman VII and VIII with no metaphyseal comminution.

Method

Fifty-six patients were chosen randomly and then allocated to two different modalities of stabilisation randomly as well, they were followed up; three of them were lost to follow-up because of death and two moved away from the area. Fifty-one patients were randomised in two groups: 24 were treated with K-wire and spanning Ex-Fix supplementation and 27 were treated with K-wires and plaster. Patients were prospectively monitored following the operation with a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Measurement of range of motion was obtained after surgery. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores for pain and satisfaction levels were also recorded.

Results

There was statistically significant difference in favour of the Ex-Fix patient group for pain (VAS, Ex-Fix group: mean 14.9; plaster group: mean 28.1) and satisfaction (Ex-Fix group: mean 89.7;plaster group: mean 76.3). Although one would expect that range of motion would be reduced in the Ex-Fix group, there were no statistically significant differences found, with the exception of supination where results were in favour of the Ex-Fix group (mean 54.4; plaster group: mean 45.2).

Conclusion

In our study, xternal fixator (Ex-Fix) supplementation of K-wiring favoured patients with distal radius fracture, even though there was no metaphyseal comminution, and therefore is suggested in contrast to plaster supplementation.
The new hybrid BBN model with the photon cooling, X particle, and the primordial magnetic field
Authors: Yamazaki Dai G. , Kusakabe Motohiko , Kajino Toshitaka , Mathews Grant J. , Cheoun Myung-Ki
Published: September 2017

The Big Bang Nucleosynthesis theory accurately reproduces the abundances of light elements in the universes, except for the 7Li abundance. The calculated 7Li abundance with the baryon-to-photon ratio fixed by the observations of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) is inconsistent with the observed lithium abundances on the surface of metal-poor halo stars, and this problem is called “7Li problem”. Previous studies proposed to resolve this 7Li problem include photon cooling (possibly via the Bose–Einstein condensation of a scalar particle), the decay of a long-lived [Formula: see text] particle (possibly the next-to-lightest supersymmetric particle), or an energy density of a primordial magnetic field (PMF). We review and analyze the results of these solutions both separately and in concert, and the constraint on the [Formula: see text] particles and the PMF parameters from observed light-element abundances with a likelihood analysis. We can discover parameter ranges of the [Formula: see text] particles which can solve the 7Li problem and constrain the energy density of the PMF.
SMALL PUNCH TESTING: AN ALTERNATIVE TESTING TECHNIQUE TO EVALUATE TENSILE BEHAVIOR OF CORTICAL BONE
Authors: SINGH JAGJIT , SHARMA N. K. , SEHGAL SATBIR S.
Published: September 2017

The tensile properties of cortical bone are usually determined with the help of uniaxial tensile test which requires enough amount of bone material. Further, it is very complicated to examine the heterogeneity and anisotropy associated with the deformational properties of cortical bone with the help of uniaxial tensile test. Through this study, small punch testing has been proposed as an alternate technique to evaluate the deformational behavior of cortical bone utilizing optimum amount of bone material. The comparison between elastic modulus values obtained from tensile test and stiffness values obtained through small punch testing was done for validation. The values of these properties were found to be having a significant positive correlation with each other. The effects of bone density and compositional parameters on these properties were also found to be having a similar trend. It is observed through this study that stiffness values from small punch technique are having a similarity with elastic modulus values from uniaxial tensile testing. It is proposed that small punch testing technique can be used as an alternate to examine the deformational behavior of cortical bone.
Shipboard Power System Stabilizer Optimization Using GA and QPSO Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Wei , Shi Weifeng , Zhuo Jinbao
Published: September 2017

In order to improve shipboard power system dynamic stability, two bio-inspired algorithms, the genetic algorithm (GA) and quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (QPSO), method are proposed for the shipboard power system stabilizer (PSS) optimization. The proposed PSS optimization method is inspired by a hybrid-coordinated stabilizer for diesel engine generator and the bio-inspired algorithm. The simulations are conducted under load change disturbance and short-circuit fault case for the marine generator with/without the diesel engine speed governor. Simulation results show that the quantum particle swarm optimize strategy could improve the dynamic performance of the marine generator better than the GA method. The dynamic performance for shipboard power system always indicates the effectiveness, feasibility and robustness of the proposed approach.
A Novel Variable Population Size Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm with Convergence Analysis for Optimal Parameter Tuning
Authors: Elkhateeb Nasr , Badr Ragia
Published: September 2017

This paper introduces a novel algorithm called variable population size artificial bee colony (VPS-ABC) optimization algorithm. VPS-ABC is proposed to overcome the impact of the effect of initial population and improve the convergence rate of classical ABC. The main idea is based on reducing the number of food sources gradually and moving the bees towards the global best food source in each re-initialization process. Moreover, an analysis for convergence of the ABC algorithm is proofed in details. The convergence analysis is based on the relation between ABC variants and the general solution of the food source regeneration equation. To show the fitness of the proposed algorithm, a comparison is made between VPS-ABC versus classical ABC, PSO, and GA algorithms in tuning the proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers. Simulation results show that VPS-ABC algorithm is highly competitive, often outperforming PSO and GA algorithms.
Enterprise System and Its Application in Aerospace Industry
Authors: Wang Hong
Published: September 2017

Enterprise systems (ES) or enterprise information systems (EIS) concepts have been researched and utilized for decades, but it was not until the past decade when they became popular in not only the areas of information systems and computer sciences, but also in those of business process management, business process reengineering, industrial engineering, systems engineering, business intelligence, government administration, e-commerce and e-business, and others. The growing needs of using ES to solve real-world problems require intensive study of ES-related techniques and applications. This study explores those ES techniques and their applications in the aerospace industry. Furthermore, an application case of information integration in spacecraft state detection is demonstrated.
Creole Tense–Mood–Aspect Systems
Authors: Winford Donald
Published: September 2017

Research on creole tense–mood–aspect (TMA) systems began in earnest as a response to Bickerton's claim that there was a prototypical system shaped by a language bioprogram. This article presents an overview of such research, as well as a comparison of TMA systems across creoles of different lexical affiliations. A growing body of research in the last 20 years has employed typological and semantic frameworks to demonstrate the diversity and complexity of creole TMA systems. Creoles employ rich inventories of temporal and modal categories whose core meanings interact with the discourse context to produce different interpretations. The syntax of creole TMA also closely follows the universal hierarchy of functional heads proposed by Cinque. The emergence and development of the TMA categories themselves follow general principles of internally and externally motivated change.
Impact of β-adrenergic signaling in PGC-1α-mediated adaptations in mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Brandt Nina , Nielsen Lene , Thiellesen Buch Bjørg , Gudiksen Anders , Ringholm Stine , Hellsten Ylva , Bangsbo Jens , Pilegaard Henriette
Published: September 2017

PGC-1α has been suggested to regulate exercise training-induced metabolic adaptations and autophagy in skeletal muscle. The factors regulating PGC-1α, however, have not been fully resolved. The aim was to investigate the impact of β-adrenergic signaling in PGC-1α-mediated metabolic adaptations in skeletal muscle with exercise training. Muscle was obtained from muscle-specific PGC-1α knockout (MKO) and lox/lox mice 1) 3 h after a single exercise bout with or without prior injection of propranolol or 3 h after a single injection of clenbuterol and 2) after 5 wk of wheel running exercise training with or without propranolol treatment or after 5 wk of clenbuterol treatment. A single clenbuterol injection and an acute exercise bout similarly increased the mRNA content of both N-terminal and full-length PGC-1α isoforms, and prior propranolol treatment reduced the exercise-induced increase in mRNA of all isoforms. Furthermore, a single clenbuterol injection elicited a PGC-1α-dependent increase in cytochrome c and vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA, whereas prolonged clenbuterol treatment increased fiber size but reduced capillary density. Exercise training increased the protein content of OXPHOS, LC3I, and Parkin in a PGC-1α-dependent manner without effect of propranolol, while an exercise training-induced increase in Akt2 and p62 protein required PGC-1α and was blunted by prolonged propranolol treatment. This suggests that β-adrenergic signaling is not required for PGC-1α-mediated exercise training-induced adaptations in mitochondrial proteins, but contributes to exercise training-mediated adaptations in insulin signaling and autophagy regulation through PGC-1α. Furthermore, changes observed with acute stimulation of compounds like clenbuterol and propranolol may not lead to corresponding adaptations with prolonged treatment.
Soluble interleukin-13rα1: a circulating regulator of glucose
Authors: Rachmin Inbal , O’Meara Caitlin C. , Ricci-Blair Elisabeth M. , Feng Yilin , Christensen Emily M. , Duffy Jeanne F. , Zitting Kirsi M. , Czeisler Charles A. , Pancoast James R. , Cannon Christopher P. , O’Donoghue Michelle L. , Morrow David A. , Lee Richard T.
Published: September 2017

Soluble IL-13 receptor-α1, or sIL13rα1, is a soluble protein that binds to interleukin-13 (IL-13) that has been previously described in mice. The function of sIL13rα1 remains unclear, but it has been hypothesized to act as a decoy receptor for IL-13. Recent studies have identified a role for IL-13 in glucose metabolism, suggesting that a decoy receptor for IL-13 might increase circulating glucose levels. Here, we report that delivery of sIL13rα1 to mice by either gene transfer or recombinant protein decreases blood glucose levels. Surprisingly, the glucose-lowering effect of sIL13rα1 was preserved in mice lacking IL-13, demonstrating that IL-13 was not required for the effect. In contrast, deletion of IL-4 in mice eliminated the hypoglycemic effect of sIL13rα1. In humans, endogenous blood levels of IL13rα1 varied substantially, although there were no differences between diabetic and nondiabetic patients. There was no circadian variation of sIL13rα1 in normal human volunteers. Delivery of sIL13rα1 fused to a fragment crystallizable (Fc) domain provided sustained glucose lowering in mice on a high-fat diet, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy. These data reveal sIL13rα1 as a circulating human protein with an unexpected role in glucose metabolism.
Circadian variability of body temperature responses to methamphetamine
Authors: Behrouzvaziri Abolhassan , Zaretskaia Maria V. , Rusyniak Daniel E. , Zaretsky Dmitry V. , Molkov Yaroslav I.
Published: September 2017

Vital parameters of living organisms exhibit circadian rhythmicity. Although rats are nocturnal animals, most of the studies involving rats are performed during the day. The objective of this study was to examine the circadian variability of the body temperature responses to methamphetamine. Body temperature was recorded in male Sprague-Dawley rats that received intraperitoneal injections of methamphetamine (Meth, 1 or 5 mg/kg) or saline at 10 AM or at 10 PM. The baseline body temperature at night was 0.8°C higher than during the day. Both during the day and at night, 1 mg/kg of Meth induced monophasic hyperthermia. However, the maximal temperature increase at night was 50% smaller than during the daytime. Injection of 5 mg/kg of Meth during the daytime caused a delayed hyperthermic response. In contrast, the same dose at night produced responses with a tendency toward a decrease of body temperature. Using mathematical modeling, we previously showed that the complex dose dependence of the daytime temperature responses to Meth results from an interplay between inhibitory and excitatory drives. In this study, using our model, we explain the suppression of the hyperthermia in response to Meth at night. First, we found that the baseline activity of the excitatory drive is greater at night. It appears partially saturated and thus is additionally activated by Meth to a lesser extent. Therefore, the excitatory component causes less hyperthermia or becomes overpowered by the inhibitory drive in response to the higher dose. Second, at night the injection of Meth results in reduction of the equilibrium body temperature, leading to gradual cooling counteracting hyperthermia.