bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subfunctionalization of duplicate MYB genes in Solanum commersonii generated the cold‐induced ScAN2 and the anthocyanin regulator ScAN1
Authors: D'Amelia Vincenzo , Aversano Riccardo , Ruggiero Alessandra , Batelli Giorgia , Appelhagen Ingo , Dinacci Claudio , Hill Lionel , Martin Cathie , Carputo Domenico
Published: April 2017

Wild potato species are useful sources of allelic diversity and loci lacking in the cultivated potato. In these species, the presence of anthocyanins in leaves has been associated with a greater tolerance to cold stress. However, the molecular mechanisms that allow potatoes to withstand cold exposure remain unclear. Here, we show that the expression of AN2, a MYB transcription factor, is induced by low temperatures in wild, cold‐tolerant Solanum commersonii, and not in susceptible Solanum tuberosum varieties. We found that AN2 is a paralog of the potato anthocyanin regulator AN1, showing similar interaction ability with basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) co‐partners. Their sequence diversity resulted in a different capacity to promote accumulation of phenolics when tested in tobacco. Indeed, functional studies demonstrated that AN2 is less able to induce anthocyanins than AN1, but nevertheless it has a strong ability to induce accumulation of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. We propose that the duplication of R2R3 MYB genes resulted in subsequent subfunctionalization, where AN1 specialized in anthocyanin production and AN2 conserved the ability to respond to cold stress, inducing mainly the synthesis of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. These results contribute to understanding the evolutionary significance of gene duplication on phenolic compound regulation.
Endoscopic chemocauterization for pyriform sinus fistula in children
Authors: Yanagisawa Satohiko , Oshio Takehito , Kato Mototoshi , Kano Motohiro , Tsuji Yuki , Morikawa Yasuhide
Published: April 2017

Background

Although complete excision is the standard treatment for pyriform sinus fistula (PSF), it has recently been suggested that chemocauterization via the internal orifice of the fistula could be an effective non‐invasive treatment for the condition. The present report describes the details of our experience with and the efficacy of endoscopic chemocauterization for pediatric PSF.

Method

Between January 2010 and June 2015, four patients were diagnosed with PSF and scheduled to undergo endoscopic chemocauterization. Under general anesthesia, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) solution was endoscopically injected through the opening of the fistula using a fine plastic tube. Esophagogram was obtained at 3 weeks after the procedure to search for recurrence. Complete closure of the fistula was confirmed on endoscopy at 2–3 months after chemocauterization.

Results

Two of the four patients were treated once, and the remaining patients required further chemocauterization procedures. No recurrence developed in any patient after it had been confirmed that the fistula's internal orifice had been obliterated. Some transient complications, such as sore throat, nausea or temporary vocal fold paresis, occurred.

Conclusion

Chemocauterization with TCA seems to be a useful first‐choice treatment for PSF.
Molecular markers provide evidence for a broad‐fronted recolonisation of the widespread calcareous grassland species Sanguisorba minor from southern and cryptic northern refugia
Authors: Tausch S. , Leipold M. , Poschlod P. , Reisch C.
Published: April 2017

Calcareous grasslands belong to the most species‐rich and endangered habitats in Europe. However, little is known about the origin of the species typically occurring in these grasslands. In this study we analysed the glacial and post‐glacial history of Sanguisorba minor, a typical plant species frequently occurring in calcareous grasslands.

The study comprised 38 populations throughout the whole distribution range of the species across Europe. We used molecular markers (AFLP) and applied Bayesian cluster analysis as well as spatial principal components analysis (sPCA) to identify glacial refugia and post‐glacial migration routes to Central Europe.

Our study revealed significant differences in the level of genetic variation and the occurrence of rare fragments within populations of S. minor and a distinct separation of eastern and western lineages. The analyses uncovered traditional southern but also cryptic northern refugia and point towards a broad fronted post‐glacial recolonisation.

Based on these results we postulate that incomplete lineage sorting may have contributed to the detected pattern of genetic variation and that S. minor recolonised Central Europe post‐glacially from Iberia and northern glacial refugia in France, Belgium or Germany. Our results highlight the importance of refugial areas for the conservation of intraspecific variation in calcareous grassland species.
Adult Pre‐pregnancy Weight Change and Risk of Developing Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy
Authors: Adane Akilew A. , Mishra Gita D. , Tooth Leigh R.
Published: April 2017

Background

While the association of pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) is well documented, little is known about the relationship between pre‐pregnancy weight change and HDP. We examined the impact of adult pre‐pregnancy weight change on the development of HDP.

Methods

We included 2914 women, surveyed about every three years since 1996, from the 1973–78 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Women without hypertension or HDP were followed‐up between 2003 and 2012. Generalised estimating equations were used to assess the effect of baseline BMI (mean age 20 years) and pre‐pregnancy weight change on the incidence of HDP.

Results

Over 9 years of follow up, 301 incident HDP cases (6.3%) were reported from 4813 pregnancies. Overweight and obese women at the baseline survey were 1.67 (95% CI 1.3, 2.2) and 2.15 (95% CI 1.4, 3.3) times more likely to develop HDP than normal weight women, respectively. Compared with stable weight women, women with small (>1.5–2.5%) or moderate/high (>2.5%) annual weight gain had elevated risk of HDP (RR 1.67 95% CI 1.3, 2.2; RR 2.31, 95% CI 1.8, 3.0, respectively). Women who reported annual weight loss (>1.5%) between baseline and the average age of 24 years were 46% (95% CI 0.4, 0.8) less likely to develop HDP.

Conclusions

Pre‐pregnancy weight gain is associated with an increased risk of HDP, whereas early adult weight loss is associated with lower risk of HDP.
Simultaneous usage of dementia medications and anticholinergics among Asians and Pacific Islanders
Authors: Schultz Brian R. , Takeshita Junji , Goebert Deborah , Takeshita Steven , Lu Brett Y. , Guilloux Alexandre , Higa Joy
Published: April 2017

Background

The simultaneous use of dementia medications and anticholinergic medications occurs frequently. Cholinesterase inhibitors and anticholinergic medications likely counteract one another, potentially exposing patients to medications with decreased benefit, more adverse effects, and higher cost of care. We identified the rate of concurrent prescriptions of cholinesterase inhibitors/memantine with anticholinergics in an urban hospital setting with a large Asian and Pacific Islander population.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of patients hospitalized from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2010 at a general hospital who simultaneously received US Food and Drug Administration‐approved dementia medications (galantamine, rivastigmine, donepezil, and/or memantine) and anticholinergics.

Results

Overall, 304 patients receiving cholinesterase inhibitors/memantine also received anticholinergics. Of these patients, 64.1% were given high‐potency anticholinergic medications, and 35.9% received medium‐potency medications. Indications for the use of anticholinergic medication were urological (17.8%), gastrointestinal excluding nausea (32.6%), nausea (10.2%), psychiatric (7.9%), and other (31.6%). Asian patients received the combination of cholinesterase inhibitors/memantine and anticholinergics less frequently than Native Hawaiian or Caucasian patients (8.4% vs 12.2% and 13.3%, respectively; χ2 = 16.04, degrees of freedom = 2, P < 0.0003).

Conclusions

Simultaneous prescribing of cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and anticholinergic medications was significantly less common than in previous studies, with some ethnic variability. The less frequent occurrence of concurrent medications in the Asian population may be because of variations in the rate of indications or in tolerability for anticholinergic medications among the population.
Comparison of cellular location and expression of Plakophilin‐2 in epidermal cells from nonlesional atopic skin and healthy skin in German shepherd dogs
Authors: Ardesjö‐Lundgren Brita , Tengvall Katarina , Bergvall Kerstin , Farias Fabiana H.G. , Wang Liya , Hedhammar Åke , Lindblad‐Toh Kerstin , Andersson Göran
Published: April 2017

Background

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is an inflammatory and pruritic allergic skin disease caused by interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Previously, a genome‐wide significant risk locus on canine chromosome 27 for CAD was identified in German shepherd dogs (GSDs) and Plakophilin‐2 (PKP2) was defined as the top candidate gene. PKP2 constitutes a crucial component of desmosomes and also is important in signalling, metabolic and transcriptional activities.

Objectives

The main objective was to evaluate the role of PKP2 in CAD by investigating PKP2 expression and desmosome structure in nonlesional skin from CAD‐affected (carrying the top GWAS SNP risk allele) and healthy GSDs. We also aimed at defining the cell types in the skin that express PKP2 and its intracellular location.

Animals/Methods

Skin biopsies were collected from nine CAD‐affected and five control GSDs. The biopsies were frozen for immunofluorescence and fixed for electron microscopy immunolabelling and morphology.

Results

We observed the novel finding of PKP2 expression in dendritic cells and T cells in dog skin. Moreover, we detected that PKP2 was more evenly expressed within keratinocytes compared to its desmosomal binding‐partner plakoglobin. PKP2 protein was located in the nucleus and on keratin filaments attached to desmosomes. No difference in PKP2 abundance between CAD cases and controls was observed.

Conclusion

Plakophilin‐2 protein in dog skin is expressed in both epithelial and immune cells; based on its subcellular location its functional role is implicated in both nuclear and structural processes.
The Effect of Sports on the Psychological Well-being Levels of High School Students
Authors: Gül Özgür , Çağlayan Hakan Salim , Akandere Mehibe
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of sports education on psychological well-being levels of high school students in terms of individual, environmental and self-determination.This study group consists oftotally 187 high school students, in other words 97 students (nmale = 48, nfemale= 49) receive education in a high school attached to Provincial National Education Directorate of Konya where they are provided for sports training, while 90 students (nmale= 50, nfemale= 40) receive education in a similar school where they are not provided for sports training in the first half of the 2016-2017 academic year.This study has been carried out in accordance with the pretest-posttest model and the experimental group has been applied the sports activity program 2 days and 2 hours per week during 8 weeks and control group has continued their education and training according to programs included in the curriculum. "Psychological Well-Being Scale" developed by Ryff (1989) and adapted to Turkish by Cenkseven (2004) has been used as data collection tool in this study. In the analysis of the data, independent group t test has been used for the intergroup comparisons and t test (Paired-Samples t test) has been used for the intra-group comparisons. The level of significance has been taken as 0.05 in the study.As a result of the study, it has been determined that the individual development dimensions of the psychological well-being scale related with groups receiving (experimental) and not receiving the sports training (control) become different significantly in favor of the posttest score averages and also it has been understood that there is a difference in favor of the posttest score averages in the dimensions of environmental domination and self-determination but this difference is not significant at 0,05 level.
A Two-Stage Model for Energy Transmission and Radiation Analysis of Laminated Composite Double-Leaf Structures
Authors: Sahu Atanu , Niyogi Arup Guha , Rose Michael , Bhattacharya Partha
Published: April 2017

A two-stage numerical model is developed to understand the energy transmission characteristics through a finite double-leaf structure placed in an infinite baffle subjected to an external excitation and subsequently the sound radiation behavior of the same into the semi-infinite receiving side. In the first stage, a mobility-based coupled finite element–boundary element (FE–BE) technique is implemented to model the energy transmission from the primary panel to the secondary panel through an air gap. In the second stage, a separate boundary element (BE)-based model is developed to estimate the sound power radiated by the radiating (secondary) panel into the receiving side which is assumed to be semi-infinite. The advantage of the proposed approach is that it is sufficient to mesh the structural panels alone, thereby reducing the problem dimensions and the difficulty in modeling. Moreover, the developed model can be easily implemented for structures made up of various constituent materials (isotropic or laminated composites) with complex boundary conditions and varying panel geometries. Numerical experiments are carried out for different material models by varying air-gap thicknesses and also by introducing alternate energy transmission path in terms of mechanical links and the obtained results are discussed.
Separation of Solid Stress From Interstitial Fluid Pressure in Pancreas Cancer Correlates With Collagen Area Fraction
Authors: Nieskoski Michael D. , Marra Kayla , Gunn Jason R. , Kanick Stephen C. , Doyley Marvin M. , Hasan Tayyaba , Pereira Stephen P. , Stuart Trembly B. , Pogue Brian W.
Published: April 2017

Elevated total tissue pressure (TTP) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma is often associated with stress applied by cellular proliferation and hydrated hyaluronic acid osmotic swelling; however, the causal roles of collagen in total tissue pressure have yet to be clearly measured. This study illustrates one direct correlation between total tissue pressure and increased deposition of collagen within the tissue matrix. This observation comes from a new modification to a conventional piezoelectric pressure catheter, used to independently separate and quantify total tissue pressure, solid stress (SS), and interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) within the same tumor location, thereby clarifying the relationship between these parameters. Additionally, total tissue pressure shows a direct correlation with verteporfin uptake, demonstrating the impediment of systemically delivered molecules with increased tissue hypertension.
Design of Hierarchical Three-Dimensional Printed Scaffolds Considering Mechanical and Biological Factors for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Egan Paul F. , Ferguson Stephen J. , Shea Kristina
Published: April 2017

Computational approaches have great potential for aiding clinical product development by finding promising candidate designs prior to expensive testing and clinical trials. Here, an approach for designing multilevel bone tissue scaffolds that provide structural support during tissue regeneration is developed by considering mechanical and biological perspectives. Three key scaffold design properties are considered: (1) porosity, which influences potential tissue growth volume and nutrient transport, (2) surface area, which influences biodegradable scaffold dissolution rate and initial cell attachment, and (3) elastic modulus, which influences scaffold deformation under load and, therefore, tissue stimulation. Four scaffold topology types are generated by patterning beam or truss-based unit cells continuously or hierarchically and tuning the element diameter, unit cell length, and number of unit cells. Parametric comparisons suggest that structures with truss-based scaffolds have higher surface areas but lower elastic moduli for a given porosity in comparison to beam-based scaffolds. Hierarchical scaffolds possess a large central pore that increases porosity but lowers elastic moduli and surface area. Scaffold samples of all topology types are 3D printed with dimensions suitable for scientific testing. A hierarchical scaffold is fabricated with dimensions and properties relevant for a spinal interbody fusion cage with a maximized surface-volume ratio, which illustrates a potentially high performing design configured for mechanical and biological factors. These findings demonstrate the merit in using multidisciplinary and computational approaches as a foundation of tissue scaffold development for regenerative medicine.
Impact of Synchronization in Micromechanical Gyroscopes
Authors: Defoort Martial , Taheri-Tehrani Parsa , Nitzan Sarah H. , Horsley David A.
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we study the occurrence of synchronization between the two degenerate resonance modes of a microdisk resonator gyroscope. Recently, schemes involving the simultaneous actuation of the two vibration modes of the gyroscope have been implemented as a promising new method to increase their performance. However, this strategy might result in synchronization between the two modes, which would maintain frequency mode-matching but also may produce problems, such as degrading stability and sensitivity. Here, we demonstrate for the first time synchronization between the degenerate modes of a microgyroscope and show that synchronization arising from mutual coupling dramatically reduces frequency instability at the cost of increased amplitude instability. We present an alternative synchronization scheme that suppresses this drawback while still taking advantage of a passive frequency mode-match operation.
SI–HCCI Mode Transitions Without Open-Loop Sequence Scheduling: Online Parameter Adaptation
Authors: Gorzelic Patrick , Stefanopoulou Anna , Sterniak Jeff
Published: April 2017

A parameter adaptation method for a previously developed spark ignition (SI) to homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) combustion mode transition control architecture is described. The goal of the adaptive method is to use transient SI–HCCI transition data gathered in online operation to tune the controller model parameters on a cylinder individual basis, in order to improve the accuracy of the controller's model-based calculations and account for cylinder to cylinder variability and drifts over time. The parameter adaptation is implemented on an experimental engine in an indirect adaptive control structure where the model parameters of the SI–HCCI transition controller are updated based on real-time measurements and used in subsequent model-based calculations. Comparison of SI–HCCI transition responses before and after adaptation at a single operating condition shows notable benefits from use of the adaptive method. When tested at differing operating points, the performance of the adapted controller remains overwhelmingly favorable to that of the baseline controller even when conditioned on data from only a single operating point.
Nutritional Considerations for Bouldering
Authors: Smith Edward J. , Storey Ryan , Ranchordas Mayur K.
Published: April 2017

Bouldering competitions are held up to International level and governed by the International Federation of Sport Climbing. Bouldering has been selected to feature at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, however, physiological qualities and nutritional requirements to optimize performance remain inadequately defined due to large gaps in the literature. The primary goals of training include optimizing the capacity of the anaerobic energy systems and developing sport-specific strength, with emphasis on the isometric function of the forearm flexors responsible for grip. Bouldering athletes typically possess a lean physique, similar to the characteristics of sport climbers with reported body fat values of 6–12%. Athletes strive for a low body weight to improve power to weight ratio and limit the load on the extremities. Specialized nutritional support is uncommon and poor nutritional practices such as chronic carbohydrate restriction are prevalent, compromising the health of the athletes. The high intensity nature of bouldering demands a focus on adequate carbohydrate availability. Protein intake and timing should be structured to maximize muscle protein synthesis and recovery, with the literature suggesting 0.25–0.3 g/kg in 3–4 hr intervals. Supplementing with creatine and b-alanine may provide some benefit by augmenting the capacity of the anaerobic systems. Boulderers are encouraged to seek advice from nutrition experts to enhance performance, particularly important when weight loss is the desired outcome. Further research is warranted across all nutritional aspects of bouldering which is summarized in this review.
Is There Economic Discrimination on Sport Social Media? An Analysis of Major League Baseball
Authors: Watanabe Nicholas M. , Yan Grace , Soebbing Brian P. , Pegoraro Ann
Published: April 2017

Prior studies have investigated consumer-based economic discrimination from a number of contexts in the sport industry. This study seeks to further such a line of inquiry by examining consumer interest in Major League Baseball players on the Twitter platform, especially considering the emergence of social media at the forefront of consumer behavior research. Specifically, the analysis uses six regression models that take into account an array of factors, including player characteristics, performance, market size, and so forth. Results reveal that when controlling for all other factors, Hispanic players receive significantly less consumer interest on social media than their counterparts, while Asian pitchers receive more. These findings yield critical insights into tendencies of sport consumer biases on digital platforms, assisting the development of an equal and efficient sport marketplace for stakeholders.
The Development of Self-Compassion Among Women Varsity Athletes
Authors: Ingstrup Meghan S. , Mosewich Amber D. , Holt Nicholas L.
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore factors that contributed to the development of self-compassion among highly self-compassionate women varsity athletes. More specifically, the research question was: how did women varsity athletes with high self-compassion perceive they became self-compassionate? To purposefully sample participants, 114 women varsity athletes completed the Self-Compassion Scale (Neff, 2003b). Ten athletes with high self-compassion scores then participated in individual interviews and a follow-up second interview. Data were analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis (Smith & Osborn, 2003). Analysis produced three main themes that contributed to the development of self-compassion: (a) role of parents (seeking and receiving help from parents, parents teaching self-kindness, parents putting experiences in perspective); (b) gaining self-awareness; and (c) learning from others (peers, siblings, coaches, sport psychologists). These findings provide insights into the ways in which self-compassion can be learned and taught, and have implications for practitioners who work with women athletes.
Coupling between distant biofilms and emergence of nutrient time-sharing
Authors: Liu Jintao , Martinez-Corral Rosa , Prindle Arthur , Lee Dong-yeon D. , Larkin Joseph , Gabalda-Sagarra Marçal , Garcia-Ojalvo Jordi , Süel Gürol M.
Published: April 2017

Maximizing growth by sharing

Bacterial colonies can undergo synchronized oscillations of cell growth, in which individual cells communicate through potassium ion-mediated electrical signals. Liu
et al.
found that such communication can also occur between adjacent colonies (see the Perspective by Gordon). Furthermore, colonies that would normally oscillate in synchrony adapted to an environment in which the nutrient supply was limited by growing out of phase with one another. Mathematical modeling and further experiments showed that this kept the colonies from having to compete for the limited nutrient and, counterintuitively, allowed the colonies to grow more quickly than they did with a higher nutrient concentration.

Science
, this issue p.
638
; see also p.
583
Greater role for Atlantic inflows on sea-ice loss in the Eurasian Basin of the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Polyakov Igor V. , Pnyushkov Andrey V. , Alkire Matthew B. , Ashik Igor M. , Baumann Till M. , Carmack Eddy C. , Goszczko Ilona , Guthrie John , Ivanov Vladimir V. , Kanzow Torsten , Krishfield Richard , Kwok Ronald , Sundfjord Arild , Morison James , Rember Robert , Yulin Alexander
Published: April 2017

Losing its character

The eastern Eurasian Basin of the Arctic Ocean is on the far side of the North Pole from the Atlantic, but it is becoming more like its larger neighbor as the climate warms. Polyakov
et al.
show that this region is also evolving toward a state of weakened stratification with increased vertical mixing, release of oceanic heat, and less sea ice. These changes could have considerable impacts on other geophysical and biogeochemical aspects of the Arctic Ocean system and presage a fundamentally new Arctic climate state.

Science
, this issue p.
285
Draft Genome Sequence of the Coprinoid Mushroom
Coprinopsis strossmayeri
Authors: Banks Alice M. , Barker Gary L. A. , Bailey Andy M. , Foster Gary D.
Published: April 2017

Coprinopsis strossmayeri
is a coprinoid mushroom favoring the habitat of herbivore dung. As a result of this highly competitive environment,
C. strossmayeri
is anticipated to produce a wide array of antimicrobial secondary metabolites (SMs) of potential pharmaceutical importance. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
C. strossmayeri
.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Diplodia seriata
F98.1, a Fungal Species Involved in Grapevine Trunk Diseases
Authors: Robert-Siegwald Guillaume , Vallet Julie , Abou-Mansour Eliane , Xu Jiabao , Rey Patrice , Bertsch Christophe , Rego Cecilia , Larignon Philippe , Fontaine Florence , Lebrun Marc-Henri
Published: April 2017

The ascomycete
Diplodia seriata
is a causal agent of grapevine trunk diseases. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
D. seriata
isolate F98.1 (37.27 Mb, 512 contigs, 112 scaffolds, and 8,087 predicted protein-coding genes).
Draft Genome Sequence of Subantarctic
Rhodococcus
sp. Strain 1139
Authors: Nahar Akhikun , Baker Anthony L. , Charleston Michael A. , Britz Margaret L.
Published: April 2017

The draft genome sequence of subantarctic
Rhodococcus
sp. strain 1139 is reported here. The genome size is 7.04 Mb with high G+C content (62.3%) and it contains a large number of genes involved in lipid synthesis. This lipid synthesis system is characteristic of oleaginous
Actinobacteria
, which are of interest for biofuel production.
Draft Genome Sequence of Microbacterium oleivorans Strain A9, a Bacterium Isolated from Chernobyl Radionuclide-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Ortet Philippe , Gallois Nicolas , Piette Laurie , Long Justine , Berthomieu Catherine , Armengaud Jean , Barakat Mohamed , Chapon Virginie
Published: April 2017

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Microbacterium oleivorans
strain A9, a uranium-tolerant actinobacterium which has been isolated from radionuclide-contaminated soil from the Chernobyl exclusion zone. It is composed of 22 contigs totaling 2,954,335 bp and contains 2,813 coding DNA sequences, one cluster of rRNA genes, and 45 tRNA genes.
Genome Sequences of Two Naphthalene-Degrading Strains of Pseudomonas balearica, Isolated from Polluted Marine Sediment and from an Oil Refinery Site
Authors: Salvà-Serra Francisco , Jakobsson Hedvig E. , Busquets Antonio , Gomila Margarita , Jaén-Luchoro Daniel , Seguí Carolina , Aliaga-Lozano Francisco , García-Valdés Elena , Lalucat Jorge , Moore Edward R. B. , Bennasar-Figueras Antoni
Published: April 2017

The genome sequences of
Pseudomonas balearica
strains LS401 (CCUG 66666) and st101 (CCUG 66667) have been determined. The strains were isolated as naphthalene degraders from polluted marine sediment and from a sample from an oil refinery site, respectively. These genomes provide essential data about the biodegradation capabilities and the ecological implications of
P. balearica
.
Genome Sequence of the Fungal Strain 14919 Producing 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl–Coenzyme A Reductase Inhibitor FR901512
Authors: Itoh Hiroya , Matsui Makoto , Kumagai Toshitaka , Arita Masanori , Machida Masayuki , Shibata Takashi
Published: April 2017

Fungal strain 14919 was originally isolated from a soil sample collected at Mt. Kiyosumi, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. It produces FR901512, a potent and strong 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl–coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor. The genome sequence of fungal strain 14919 was determined and annotated to improve the productivity of FR901512.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Coastal Cyanobacterium,
Synechococcus
sp. Strain NIES-970
Authors: Shimura Yohei , Hirose Yuu , Misawa Naomi , Wakazuki Sachiko , Fujisawa Takatomo , Nakamura Yasukazu , Kanesaki Yu , Yamaguchi Haruyo , Kawachi Masanobu
Published: April 2017

Members of the cyanobacterial genus
Synechococcus
are abundant in marine environments. To better understand the genomic diversity of marine
Synechococcus
spp., we determined the complete genome sequence of a coastal cyanobacterium,
Synechococcus
sp. NIES-970. The genome had a size of 3.1 Mb, consisting of one chromosome and four plasmids.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Canine Isolate of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus haemolyticus
Authors: Bean David C. , Wigmore Sarah M. , Wareham David W.
Published: April 2017

Staphylococcus haemolyticus
strain SW007 was isolated from a nasal swab taken from a healthy dog. The isolate is resistant to methicillin, mupirocin, macrolides, and sulfonamides. The SW007 draft genome is 2,325,410 bp and contains 2,277 coding sequences, including 60 tRNAs and nine complete rRNA-coding regions.
Updated Reference Genome Sequence and Annotation of Mycobacterium bovis AF2122/97
Authors: Malone Kerri M. , Farrell Damien , Stuber Tod P. , Schubert Olga T. , Aebersold Ruedi , Robbe-Austerman Suelee , Gordon Stephen V.
Published: April 2017

We report here an update to the reference genome sequence of the bovine tuberculosis bacillus
Mycobacterium bovis
AF2122/97, generated using an integrative multiomics approach. The update includes 42 new coding sequences (CDSs), 14 modified annotations, 26 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) corrections, and disclosure that the RD900 locus, previously described as absent from the genome, is in fact present.
Fungal Biofilms: Inside Out
Authors: Lagree Katherine , Mitchell Aaron P.
Published: April 2017

We focus this article on turning a biofilm inside out. The “inside” of the biofilm comprises the individual biofilm-related phenotypes, their environmental drivers and genetic determinants, and the coordination of gene functions through transcriptional regulators. Investigators have viewed the inside of the biofilm through diverse approaches, and this article will attempt to capture the essence of many. The ultimate goal is to connect the inside to the “outside,” which we view as biofilm structure, development, pharmacological attributes, and medical impact.
Preharvest Food Safety Under the Influence of a Changing Climate
Authors: Kniel Kalmia E. , Spanninger Patrick
Published: April 2017

Ensuring food safety and addressing the impact of climate change are both immense concepts. Food production systems must continue to evolve in order to develop food safety management programs and identify emerging risks linked to climate change. There are an infinite number of crosscutting issues regarding climate change and health. The changing climate of the globe manifests itself in fluctuating temperatures, intense storms, droughts, and fluctuating sea levels. These environmental variables in turn may increase the risk of foodborne disease transmission through our foods and increase the need for vigilance and risk mitigation at the preharvest level. While the influence of climate change is untold, four cases are discussed here, including waterborne disease, seafood, production of fruits and vegetables, and mycotoxins. Changes relative to climate have been documented at the preharvest level for these issues. Change must be addressed alongside education and research to safeguard the human health effects of climate change.
Tuberculosis in Infants and Children
Authors: Lamb Gabriella S. , Starke Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2017

One million children develop tuberculosis disease each year, and 210,000 die from complications of tuberculosis. Childhood tuberculosis is very different from adult tuberculosis in epidemiology, clinical and radiographic presentation, and treatment. This review highlights the many unique features of childhood tuberculosis, with special emphasis on very young children and adolescents, who are most likely to develop disease after infection has occurred.
Acquired Brucella bacteraemia in a young infant
Authors: Bhatnagar Ambar , Khera Daisy , Singh Kuldeep , Sharma Anuradha
Published: April 2017

An infant aged 6 weeks presented with failure to thrive since birth, fever and lethargy for 4 days. The child was fed on unpasteurised diluted goat’s milk after birth. She was diagnosed to have brucellosis both by blood culture and serology. Her mother’s Brucella serology was negative. She was successfully treated with injection amikacin and tablet rifampicin and had satisfactory weight gain thereafter. Acquired brucellosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of failure to thrive in young infants.
Adherence of self-monitoring of blood glucose in persons with type 1 diabetes in Sweden
Authors: Moström Peter , Ahlén Elsa , Imberg Henrik , Hansson Per-Olof , Lind Marcus
Published: April 2017

Objective

The primary aim was to evaluate the extent to which persons with type 1 diabetes perform self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) according to guidelines. Secondary objectives were to investigate predictors for good SMBG adherence, reasons for non-adherence, and association between SMBG frequency and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

Methods

This was a survey-based cross-sectional study. Questionnaires were sent out to 600 random patients at five sites. Patients were included if they were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and ≥18 years old and excluded if they were currently using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Analysis of data was performed separately for the three sites where the answer frequency was ≥70%.

Results

In total, 138 of 314 study participants, 43.9% (95% CI 38.5% to 49.4%) performed SMBG ≥4 times per day. For the three clinics where ≥70% of surveyed patients were included in the analysis, results were similar, 41.3% (95% CI 34.7% to 47.8%). Top three reported reasons for not performing more frequent SMBG were lack of time, not remembering, and self-consciousness. Frequency of SMBG was associated with HbA1c levels (p<0.0001). 30% of patients believed that ≤3 SMBG/day was recommended by healthcare providers.

Conclusions

Less than 50% of patients in Sweden follow guidelines of SMBG ≥4 times per day, despite glucose meters and strips being generally available at no cost. This indicates a need for further support in performing SMBG and increased availability of other tools for glucose monitoring.
A Quality Improvement Approach to Standardization and Sustainability of the Hand-off Process
Authors: Fryman Craig , Hamo Carine , Raghavan Siddharth , Goolsarran Nirvani
Published: April 2017

There is mounting evidence that communication and hand-off failures are a root cause of two-thirds of sentinel events in hospitals. Several studies have shown that non-standardized hand-offs have yielded poor patient outcomes and adverse events. At Stony Brook University Hospital, there were numerous reported adverse events related to poor hand-off during the transfer of patient responsibility from one resident caregiver to the next. A resident-conducted root cause analysis identified lack of a standardized hand-off process and formal training on safe and efficient hand-off among caregivers as key contributing factors.

This quality improvement project used the PDSA methodology to test the use of a standardized method, the IPASS mnemonic, and compare it to our conventional hand-off method in our internal medicine residency program. The main goals of this study were to test the feasibility and effectiveness of a standardized I- PASS hand-off and to create a robust sustainability model that includes 1) integration of I-PASS handoff in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR), 2) direct observation of the hand-off process by faculty and senior residents, and 3) surveillance and reporting of hand-off compliance scores.

Compared to hand-off with a conventional method, the use of the I-PASS method resulted in significantly fewer reported adverse events (χ2=4.8, df=1, p=0.04). I-PASS was successfully integrated into our EMR system and residents were mandated to use this as the sole method of hand-off. An EMR audit conducted six months after implementation revealed poor compliance, which ultimately led to the creation of a sustainability model that improved overall compliance from 60% to 100%.
Multiplex digital colour-coded barcode technology on RNA extracted from routine cytological samples of patients with non-small cell lung cancer: pilot study
Authors: Sgariglia Roberta , Pisapia Pasquale , Nacchio Mariantonia , De Luca Caterina , Pepe Francesco , Russo Maria , Bellevicine Claudio , Troncone Giancarlo , Malapelle Umberto
Published: April 2017

In the advanced stages of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), molecular testing is often performed on archival cytological smears. The nCounter system (NanoString Technologies) is a new promising multiplex digital colour-coded barcode technology. However, its feasibility to evaluate the RNA expression of clinical relevant biomarkers on routine cytological smears is still uncertain. To this end, RNA was extracted from 12 NSCLC routine stained cytological smears, and nCounter analysis performed by using a 48-gene panel. Overall, 11/12 (92%) of the smears were adequate for the secondary analysis, fulfilling the quality check parameter analysis of nSolver software. This pilot study shows that RNA nCounter analysis is feasible on routine cytological smears preparing the field for the implementation of this technology in the routine setting.
Phenotype of mutations in the promoter region of the β-globin gene
Authors: Ropero Paloma , Erquiaga Sara , Arrizabalaga Beatriz , Pérez Germán , de la Iglesia Silvia , Torrejón María José , Gil Celia , Elena Cela , Tenorio María , Nieto Jorge M , de la Fuente-Gonzalo Félix , Villegas Ana , González Fernández Fernando-Ataúlfo , Martínez Rafael
Published: April 2017

Background

β+-Thalassaemia is characterised by reduced production of β chains, which decrease can be caused by mutations in the promoter region (CACCC or TATA box), and is classified as mild or silent depending on the extent of β-globin chain reduction. In both cases, homozygotes or compound heterozygotes for these mutations usually have thalassaemia intermedia. Frequently the diagnosis is made in adulthood or even in old age. A total of 37 alterations in the promoter region have been described so far.

Aims

In this report we describe the mutations found in the promoter region of the β-globin gene in a single hospital in Madrid.

Methods

Between 1998 and 2015, more than 9000 blood samples were analysed for full blood count and underwent haemoglobin electrophoresis and high performance liquid chromatography. Genetic analysis of the β and Gγ-globin genes was carried out by automatic sequencing and, in the case of α genes, by multiplex PCR.

Results

35 samples showed mutation in the promoter region of the β-globin gene, with a total of six different mutations identified: one in the distal CACCC box, two in the proximal CACCC box, three in the ATA box.

Conclusions

Any alterations in the proximal CACCC and TATA boxes lead to a moderate decrease in synthesis of the β-globin chain, which has been demonstrated in cases of thalassaemia intermedia that have presented in the second decade of life with a moderate clinical course.
Metabolites of Trichoderma species isolated from damp building materials
Authors: McMullin David R. , Renaud Justin B. , Barasubiye Tharcisse , Sumarah Mark W. , Miller J. David
Published: April 2017

Buildings that have been flooded often have high concentrations of Trichoderma spores in the air while drying. Inhaled spores and spore and mycelial fragments contain large amounts of fungal glucan and natural products that contribute to the symptoms associated with indoor mould exposures. In this study, we considered both small molecules and peptaibol profiles of T. atroviride, T. koningiopsis, T. citrinoviride, and T. harzianum strains obtained from damp buildings in eastern Canada. Twenty-residue peptaibols and sorbicillin-derived metabolites (1–6) including a new structure, (R)-vertinolide (1), were characterized from T. citrinoviride. Trichoderma koningiopsis produced several koninginins (7–10), trikoningin KA V, and the 11-residue lipopeptaibols trikoningin KB I and trikoningin KB II. Trichoderma atroviride biosynthesized a mixture of 19-residue trichorzianine-like peptaibols, whereas T. harzianum produced 18-residue trichokindin-like peptaibols and the 11-residue harzianin HB I that was subsequently identified from the studied T. citrinoviride strain. Two α-pyrones, 6-pentyl-pyran-2-one (11) and an oxidized analog (12), were produced by both T. atroviride and T. harzianum. Aside from exposure to low molecular weight natural products, inhalation of Trichoderma spores and mycelial fragments may result in exposure to membrane-disrupting peptaibols. This investigation contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the biologically active natural products produced by fungi commonly found in damp buildings.
Synthesis, optical properties, and amplified spontaneous emission of hybrid Ag–SiO2–CdTe nanocomposite
Authors: Saad A.M. , Mohamed M.B. , Azzouz I.M.
Published: April 2017

In this work, a hybrid nanocomposite of metal–dielectric–semiconductor, Ag–SiO2–CdTe, nanoparticles has been synthesized. Silica shell was used as a spacer to isolate and control the distance between Ag plasmonic and luminescent CdTe QDs. It was found that insertion of silica shell enhances the plasmonic field more than 31%. Accordingly, Ag-SiO2 plasmonic enhances the luminescence and quantum yield of CdTe quantum dots by 200% and 55%, respectively. The threshold power of amplified spontaneous emission of CdTe was found to depend on both temperature and excitation wavelength location with respect to plasmon and exciton absorption. This nanocomposite could be potentially used in light-emitting diodes, biological sensing, and thermal therapy.
Experimental and quantum chemical studies on the structure and vibrational spectra of cearoin (a neoflavonoid)
Authors: Shweta  , Khan Eram , Tandon Poonam , Bharti Purnima , Kumar Padam , Maurya Rakesh
Published: April 2017

In the present investigation, the natural product cearoin is studied by both experimental and theoretical methods. It is classified as a family of neoflavonoid and is widely used as a local anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antiallergic substance. To obtain detailed information about the discussed molecule, a number of experiments have been performed by various techniques including infrared, Raman, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Quantum chemical calculations were also performed for a clear interpretation and analysis of the results. HOMO–LUMO energy band gap gives a valuable understanding of the reactivity and some of the structural and physical properties of the theme molecule. Molecular electrostatic potential surface, global and local reactivity descriptors are used to study the chemical reactivity of the molecule. Natural bond orbital analysis is followed to figure out the stability of the molecule arising from hyperconjugative interactions and charge delocalization. As cearoin is utilized as an antibiotic material, molecular docking simulations have also been done on bacterial proteins to investigate the ligand–protein interaction.
An experimental realization of cylindrical cloaking using dogbone metamaterials
Authors: Sarin V.P. , Jayakrishnan M.P. , Vinesh P.V. , Aanandan C.K. , Mohanan P. , Vasudevan K.
Published: April 2017

The quest for invisibility has inspired a deep ardour in the research community over the past decade. The invention of metamaterials has boosted the research on electromagnetic cloaking due to its unusual electromagnetic parameters under plane wave incidence. In this study, we propose a novel cloaking scheme, using dogbone metamaterials, for effectively routing the incident electromagnetic fields around a target metal cylinder under consideration. Notable reduction in the scattered power is observed from the target in comparison to an uncloaked target. Experiments and simulations validate an effective reduction in the scattering cross section of the target and effective guiding of the incident plane wave around the target.
Approaching special relativity in complex time
Authors: Spears James W.
Published: April 2017

Algebraic techniques are employed to extend time in the complex plane. We then use the framework to examine the fundamental postulates of special relativity. Generalizing the notion of time introduces the reader to a unique perspective on the universality of light speed according to Einstein. In the context of complex time we will describe the mathematical conditions in which light speed universality arises. Using high level terminology we then develop a categorization scheme applicable to physical theories that assume light speed is universal.
Lingonberry anthocyanins protect cardiac cells from oxidative-stress-induced apoptosis
Authors: Isaak Cara K. , Petkau Jay C. , Blewett Heather , O Karmin , Siow Yaw L.
Published: April 2017

Lingonberry grown in northern Manitoba, Canada, contains exceptionally high levels of anthocyanins and other polyphenols. Previous studies from our lab have shown that lingonberry anthocyanins can protect H9c2 cells from ischemia–reperfusion injury and anthocyanin-rich diets have been shown to be associated with decreased cardiovascular disease and mortality. Oxidative stress can impair function and trigger apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. This study investigated the protective effects of physiologically relevant doses of lingonberry extracts and pure anthocyanins against hydrogen-peroxide-induced cell death. Apoptosis and necrosis were detected in H9c2 cells after hydrogen peroxide treatment via flow cytometry using FLICA 660 caspase 3/7 combined with YO-PRO-1 and then confirmed with Hoechst staining and fluorescence microscopy. Each of the 3 major anthocyanins found in lingonberry (cyanidin-3-galactoside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, and cyanidin-3-arabinoside) was protective against hydrogen-peroxide-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cells at 10 ng·mL−1 (20 nmol·L−1) and restored the number of viable cells to match the control group. A combination of the 3 anthocyanins was also protective and a lingonberry extract tested at 3 concentrations produced a dose-dependent protective effect. Lingonberry anthocyanins protected cardiac cells from oxidative-stress-induced apoptosis and may have cardioprotective effects as a dietary modification.