bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A calmodulin‐like protein regulates plasmodesmal closure during bacterial immune responses
Authors: Xu Bo , Cheval Cécilia , Laohavisit Anuphon , Hocking Bradleigh , Chiasson David , Olsson Tjelvar S. G. , Shirasu Ken , Faulkner Christine , Gilliham Matthew
Published: May 2017

Plants sense microbial signatures via activation of pattern recognition receptors (PPRs), which trigger a range of cellular defences. One response is the closure of plasmodesmata, which reduces symplastic connectivity and the capacity for direct molecular exchange between host cells.

Plasmodesmal flux is regulated by a variety of environmental cues but the downstream signalling pathways are poorly defined, especially the way in which calcium regulates plasmodesmal closure.

Here, we identify that closure of plasmodesmata in response to bacterial flagellin, but not fungal chitin, is mediated by a plasmodesmal‐localized Ca2+‐binding protein Calmodulin‐like 41 (CML41). CML41 is transcriptionally upregulated by flg22 and facilitates rapid callose deposition at plasmodesmata following flg22 treatment. CML41 acts independently of other defence responses triggered by flg22 perception and reduces bacterial infection.

We propose that CML41 enables Ca2+‐signalling specificity during bacterial pathogen attack and is required for a complete defence response against Pseudomonas syringae.
Increased oral inflammation, leukocytes, and leptin, and lower adiponectin in overweight or obesity
Authors: Thanakun S , Pornprasertsuk‐Damrongsri S , Izumi Y
Published: May 2017

Objectives

The association between body mass index (BMI) and oral diseases was investigated, and levels of obesity‐related inflammatory mediators were evaluated.

Subjects and Methods

Participants (n = 160) were clinically and radiographically examined for oral diseases. Blood profiles were recorded. Levels of adiponectin, leptin, and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were measured.

Results

One hundred and thirteen (70.6%) participants had overweight or obese status (BMI ≥ 23.0 kg/m2). Sum of dental diseases and severe periodontitis were higher in overweight or obese individuals than in normal‐weight participants (p = .037 and p = .002, respectively). A significant difference in oral mucosal disorders between normal weight and overweight or obesity was not found. Plasma leukocyte counts, liver enzymes, leptin, and CRP levels were increased while adiponectin levels were decreased in individuals with BMI≥23.0 kg/m2 compared with normal‐weight participants. After adjusting for age, sex, fasting plasma glucose level, smoking, and exercise, obesity was associated with sum of dental diseases (ß = 0.239, p = .013), severe periodontitis (OR=4.52; 95% CI 1.37, 14.95, p = .013), adiponectin (ß = –0.359, p < .001), leptin (ß = 0.630, p < .001), and CRP levels (OR=12.66; 95% CI 3.07, 52.21, p < .001).

Conclusion

Overweight or obese Thai people were related to an increase in inflammatory dental and periodontal diseases with an altered health profile and plasma inflammatory mediators.
Is the oral fungal pathogen Candida albicans a cariogen?
Authors: Pereira DFA , Seneviratne CJ , Koga‐Ito CY , Samaranayake LP
Published: May 2017

Pathobiology of dental caries is complex. Data from recent molecular microbiologic studies have further redefined the role of the oral microbiome in the etiology of dental caries. This new information challenges the conventional view on the hegemony of classic cariogenic prokaryotes such as Streptococcus mutans in caries etiology, and raises the intriguing possibility of the participation of the eukaryotic oral fungal pathogen Candida in the caries process. The virulence attributes of Candida species such as their acidogenicity and aciduric nature, the ability to develop profuse biofilms, ferment and assimilate dietary sugars, and produce collagenolytic proteinases are all indicative of their latent cariogenic potential. Based on the above, oral candidal counts have been used by some as a caries risk indicator. On the contrary, other studies suggest that Candida is merely a passenger extant in an acidic cariogenic milieu, and not a true pathogen. In this review, we critically examine the varying roles of Candida, and traditionally accepted cariogens such as the mutans group of streptococci in the pathobiology of dental caries. The weight of available data tends to imply that Candida may play a pivotal role as a secondary agent perpetuating the carious process, especially in dentinal caries.
Clinical, immunologic, molecular analyses and outcomes of iranian patients with LRBA deficiency: A longitudinal study
Authors: Azizi Gholamreza , Abolhassani Hassan , Mahdaviani Seyed Alireza , Chavoshzadeh Zahra , Eshghi Peyman , Yazdani Reza , Kiaee Fatemeh , Shaghaghi Mohammadreza , Mohammadi Javad , Rezaei Nima , Hammarström Lennart , Aghamohammadi Asghar
Published: May 2017

Background

LPS‐responsive beige‐like anchor protein (LRBA) deficiency is a combined immunodeficiency caused by mutation in LRBA gene. The patients have a variety of clinical symptoms including hypogammaglobulinemia, recurrent infections, autoimmunity, and enteropathy.

Methods

A total of 17 LRBA‐deficient patients were enrolled in this longitudinal study. For all patients, demographic information, clinical records, laboratory, and molecular data were collected.

Result

Hypogammaglobulinemia was reported in 14 (82.4%), CD4+ T‐cell deficiency in five (29.4%), NK cell deficiency in three (21.4%), and CD19+ B‐cell deficiency in 11 (64.7%) patients. All patients had history of infectious complications; pneumonia was the most common (76.5%) occurring infection. A history of lymphoproliferative disorders was observed in 14 (82.3%), enteropathy in 13 (76.5%), allergic symptoms in six (35.5%), neurologic problems in four (23.5), and autoimmunity (mostly autoimmune cytopenia) in 13 (76.5%) patients. Sirolimus treatment improved enteropathy of patients with remarkable success. The 20‐year overall survival rate declined to 70.6%.

Conclusion

LRBA deficiency has a very broad and variable phenotype and should be considered, especially in children with early‐onset hypogammaglobulinemia, severe autoimmune manifestations, enteropathy, lymphoproliferation, and recurrent respiratory tract infections.
An Experimental Investigation of Election Promises
Authors: Born Andreas , van Eck Pieter , Johannesson Magnus
Published: May 2017

We analyze the effect of election promises on electoral behavior in a laboratory experiment. In the experiment, politicians can make nonbinding election promises about how to split an endowment between themselves and the group. We find that promises affect both voting and voter beliefs about how much the politician will contribute to the public fund. The relationship is inverted U‐shaped with decreasing credibility of higher promises. Contributions of politicians are correlated with their promises in a similar pattern. The election promises are generally credible unless particularly high. Politicians keep promises more often if a reelection is possible and if the politician came into power by vote rather than by random draw. Voters reward high contributions in the previous period and punish promise breaking even after controlling for the contribution in the previous period or voters' beliefs about future contributions. By controlling for voters' beliefs, we distinguish retrospective from prospective voting. Our results suggest that voters both use promises for prospective voting and retrospectively punish broken promises.
Commentary: Viewing the Arc of Public Administration Research through PAR Articles, 1940–2013
Authors: Berry Frances Stokes
Published: May 2017

Related Content: Ni, Sugimoto, and Robbin (PAR July/August 2017)

Related Content: Moynihan (PAR July/August 2017)
Expression of aquaporin 4 in the chicken ovary in relation to follicle development
Authors: Nowak M , Grzesiak M , Saito N , Kwaśniewska M , Sechman A , Hrabia A
Published: May 2017

Contents

In the mammalian ovary, aquaporins (AQPs) are thought to be involved in the regulation of fluid transport within the follicular wall and antrum formation. Data concerning the AQPs in the avian ovary is very limited. Therefore, the present study was designed to examine whether the AQP4 is present in the chicken ovary, and if so, what is its distribution in the ovarian compartment of the laying hen. Localization of AQP4 in the ovarian follicles at different stage of development was also investigated. After decapitation of hens the stroma with primordial follicles and white (1–4 mm), yellowish (4–8 mm), small yellow and the three largest yellow pre‐ovulatory follicles F3‐F1 (F3 < F2 < F1; 20–36 mm) were isolated from the ovary. The granulosa and theca layers were separated from the pre‐ovulatory follicles. The AQP4 mRNA and protein were detected in all examined ovarian compartments by the real‐time PCR and Western blot analyses, respectively. The relative expression of AQP4 was depended on follicular size and the layer of follicular wall. It was the lowest in the granulosa layer of pre‐ovulatory follicles and the highest in the ovarian stroma as well as white and yellowish follicles. Along with approaching of the largest follicle to ovulation the gradual decrease in AQP4 protein level in the granulosa layer was observed. Immunoreactivity for AQP4 was present in the granulosa and theca cells (theca interna ≥ theca externa > granulosa). The obtained results suggest that AQP4 may take part in the regulation of water transport required for follicle development in the chicken ovary.
Histological variability and consequences in chronic bird‐related hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Authors: Ochi Junichi , Ohtani Yoshio , Takemura Tamiko , Akashi Takumi , Tateishi Tomoya , Miyazaki Yasunari , Inase Naohiko , Yoshizawa Yasuyuki
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Lobar and temporal histological variability in chronic bird‐related hypersensitivity pneumonitis (BRHP) has not been clearly elucidated. This study was designed to evaluate the spatio‐temporal histopathological variability in chronic BRHP.

Methods

Fifty‐two patients with chronic BRHP who underwent a surgical lung biopsy (SLB) between 1992 and 2008 were evaluated. The histopathological characteristics of the lung biopsy specimens were classified by the 2002 American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) consensus classification of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs). Autopsy specimens from seven patients were also evaluated to examine the serial changes from SLB to autopsy.

Results

In a study of lobar histological variability based on the findings of SLB, 7 patients were diagnosed with cellular nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) pattern, 16 with fibrotic NSIP pattern, 20 with fibrotic NSIP pattern and usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) (discordant UIP) pattern and 9 with UIP (concordant UIP) pattern. In a study of sequential changes, specimens of SLBs with fibrotic NSIP pattern changed to a bronchiolocentric interstitial pneumonia (BIP) pattern or UIP pattern.

Conclusion

Interlobar and intralobar histological variability is present in chronic BRHP. In several patients with chronic BRHP, a fibrotic NSIP pattern may be an early lesion that progresses to a UIP pattern.
Changes in main pulmonary artery diameter during follow‐up have prognostic implications in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Tonelli Adriano R. , Johnson Scott , Alkukhun Laith , Yadav Ruchi , Dweik Raed A.
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

A dilated pulmonary artery (PA) is a common finding in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Little is known on the variations in PA size over time and whether these changes track with disease severity and/or predict long‐term survival.

Methods

We included patients with PAH who had at least two computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest done on different visits. Both scans matched the use of i.v. contrast.

Results

Pairs of CT scans were compared in 113 PAH patients. During a median (interquartile range (IQR)) time difference between scans of 8 (IQR: 3.5–20.0) months, we noted an increase in main PA diameter of 0.5 ± 1.8 mm (mean ± SD) (P = 0.008). When CT scans were performed >12 months apart (n = 47), the main PA diameter increased or decreased by >1 mm in 40% and 13% of the patients, respectively. An increase in main PA diameter was associated with lower PA compliance, higher right ventricular (RV) systolic pressure, worse RV function and a decline in 6‐min walk distance. During a median (IQR) follow‐up of 33 (IQR: 4.5–47) months, 53 (46.9%) patients died. The change in PA diameter was a significant predictor of mortality (hazard ratio (HR) per mm increase: 1.33 (95% CI: 1.11–1.61), P = 0.002) when adjusted for difference in time and slice thickness between CT scans, age, gender, PAH aetiology and pulmonary vascular resistance.

Conclusion

In PAH patients, an increase in CT‐derived main PA diameter over time is associated with progression in pulmonary pressures, RV dysfunction, a decline in functional capacity and higher mortality.
The silent zone of the lung in asthma under scrutiny again
Authors: Berend Norbert
Published: May 2017

See DOI: 10.1111/resp.13045
sPD‐L1 Expression is Associated with Immunosuppression and Infectious Complications in Patients with Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Chen Y. , Li M. , Liu J. , Pan T. , Zhou T. , Liu Z. , Tan R. , Wang X. , Tian L. , Chen E. , Qu H.
Published: May 2017

Acute pancreatitis (AP) with infectious complications has high mortality because of early‐stage immunosuppression. The programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) pathway is an important host immunosuppression mechanism. Soluble PD‐L1 (sPD‐L1) expression regulates co‐inhibitory signals in malignancies or autoimmune disorders; however, its effects in AP are unknown. Here, we evaluated whether serum sPD‐L1 is involved in immune dysfunction and assessed its relationship with infectious complications in early AP. Blood samples were obtained from 56 patients with acute pancreatitis and 21 healthy individuals in this prospective study. Serum sPD‐L1 levels within 48 h after AP onset were tested by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Relevant immune parameters (human leucocyte antigen‐DR, lymphocyte count) and inflammatory markers (C‐reactive protein, white blood cell count) were analysed. sPD‐L1 was significantly upregulated in patients with early AP, especially those with infectious complications, compared to healthy controls. Significant negative correlations were observed among monocyte HLA‐DR expression, lymphocyte count and sPD‐L1 levels in AP. Multivariate regression indicated that sPD‐L1 was an independent risk factor for infectious complications in AP. The findings suggest that increased sPD‐L1 expression appears to be involved in the development of immunosuppression in the early stage of AP and that sPD‐L1 might be an early parameter for prediction of infectious complications in patients with AP.
The Role of Circulating T Follicular Helper Cells and Regulatory Cells in Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Guo Z. , Liang H. , Xu Y. , Liu L. , Ren X. , Zhang S. , Wei S. , Xu P.
Published: May 2017

T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells are identified as the new subset of immune cells. This study aims to investigate the role of circulating Tfh cells (cTfh) and Tfr (cTfr) cells in the pathogenesis of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A total of 27 NSCLC patients and 19 age and sex‐matched healthy controls were enrolled. The percentage of cTfh and cTfr was detected by flow cytometric analysis. Compared to healthy controls, a significantly higher percentage of both cTfh and cTfr cells were observed in NSCLC patients (for cTfh, 18.88% ± 16.84% versus 5.98% ± 3.70%, P < 0.01; for cTfr, 2.67% ± 2.20% versus 1.14% ± 0.76%, P < 0.01). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between cTfh/cTfr ratio and age in NSCLC patients (P < 0.05). When taking age 60 as a cut‐off, the percentage of both cTfh cells and cTfr cells were higher in older patients than younger patients. Moreover, our data showed there was lower percentage of cTfh cells in NSCLC patients with early stage disease (I and II) (12.10% ± 12.22%) than that in advanced stage disease (III and IV) (30.41% ± 17.87%) (P < 0.01). However, no significant relationship was observed between cTfr cells and clinical stage in NSCLC patients. A higher percentage of cTfh cells was observed in patients with squamous cell carcinoma compared with adenocarcinoma (31.70% ± 20.73% versus. 13.48% ± 11.78%, P < 0.05). Taken together, there was significantly higher percentage of cTfh and cTfr cells in NSCLC patients. cTfh and cTfr cells might play an important role in the pathogenesis of NSCLC patients.
Diagnosis of Tuberculosis in HIV Co‐infected Individuals: Current Status, Challenges and Opportunities for the Future
Authors: Méndez‐Samperio P.
Published: May 2017

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most important causes of death among people co‐infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The diagnosis of TB remains challenging in HIV co‐infected individuals, due to a high frequency of smear‐negative disease and high rates of extrapulmonary TB. Accurate, ease of use and rapid diagnosis of active TB are critical to the World Health Organization (WHO) End TB Strategy by 2050. Traditional laboratory techniques do not provide rapid and accurate results to effectively manage HIV co‐infected patients. Over the last decade, molecular methods have provided significant steps in the fight against TB. However, many HIV co‐infected patients do not have access to these molecular diagnostic tests. Given the costs closely related with confirming a TB diagnosis in HIV patients, an overtreatment for TB is used in this patient population. Nowadays, an estimated US $8 billion a year is required to provide TB treatment, which is very high compared with making an important strategy to improve the current diagnostic tests. This review focuses on current advances in diagnosing active TB with an emphasis on the diagnosis of HIV‐associated TB. Also discussed are the main challenges that need to be overcome for improving an adequate initial diagnosis of active TB in HIV‐positive patients.
Unstable rocker shoes promote recovery from marathon‐induced muscle damage in novice runners
Authors: Nakagawa K. , Inami T. , Yonezu T. , Kenmotsu Y. , Narita T. , Kawakami Y. , Kanosue K.
Published: May 2017

We recently reported that wearing unstable rocker shoes (Masai Barefoot Technology: MBT) may enhance recovery from marathon race‐induced fatigue. However, this earlier study only utilized a questionnaire. In this study, we evaluated MBT utilizing objective physiological measures of recovery from marathon‐induced muscle damages. Twenty‐five university student novice runners were divided into two groups. After running a full marathon, one group wore MBT shoes (MBT group), and the control group (CON) wore ordinary shoes daily for 1 week following the race. We measured maximal isometric joint torque, muscle hardness (real time tissue elastography of the strain ratio) in the lower limb muscles before, immediately after, and 1, 3, and 8 days following the marathon. We calculated the magnitude of recovery by observing the difference in each value between the first measurement and the latter measurements. Results showed that isometric torques in knee flexion recovered at the first day after the race in the MBT group while it did not recover even at the eighth day in the CON group. Muscle hardness in the gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis showed enhanced recovery in the MBT group in comparison with the CON group. Also for muscle hardness in the tibialis anterior and biceps femoris, the timing of recovery was delayed in the CON group. In conclusion, wearing MBT shoes enhanced recovery in lower leg and thigh muscles from muscle damage induced by marathon running.
Autofluorescence of collagen fibres in scar
Authors: Zhao H. L. , Zhang C. P. , Zhu H. , Jiang Y. F. , Fu X. B.
Published: May 2017

Background/purpose

Autofluorescence has become an important factor associated with diagnosis and treatment of many diseases.

Methods

Full thickness skin grafts and scar biopsies were obtained from five volunteers. The normal skin or scar tissue paraffin‐wax sections were stained with HE and the autofluorescence of collagen fibres was viewed under fluorescence microscopy.

Results

In normal skin, the autofluorescence was showed in dermis, specifically in collagen fibres. There was very weak autofluorescence in epidermis. The spectrum was excited at 488 nm and the peak value of autofluorescence was significantly different between reticular layer (169.24±9.18) and papillar layer of dermis (103.91±15.23). In scar tissue, the autofluorescence was showed in collagen fibres and the peak value was 176.71±20.69. The structure of collagen fibres in normal skin or scar tissue was different in loose degree, thickness, boundle size, and morphology by their autofluorescence.

Conclusion

The different peak value of autofluorescence between scar and normal skin may due to the different density of collagen fibtes in them. This study may provide us a simple and effective assessment indicator and method for diagnosis and treatment of scar.
Repeatability of vessel density measurement in human skin by OCT‐based microangiography
Authors: Men S. J. , Chen C‐L. , Wei W. , Lai T‐Y. , Song S. Z. , Wang R. K.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To investigate the repeatability of vessel density measurement at human arm skin in healthy subjects with OCT‐based microangiography (OMAG).

Methods

Four locations including volar wrist, volar forearm, shoulder, and volar upper arm were scanned using an optimized swept source OCT system, working at center wavelength of 1300 nm and A‐line rate of 100 kHz. Three scans were acquired at each location at the same visit. Vascular images of papillary dermis, reticular dermis, and the whole dermis layer were generated with OMAG processing and automatic segmentation algorithms. The vessel density (VD) of each layer was calculated based on vascular images, and the repeatability of the VD at the same physiological location was thereafter assessed.

Results

Fifteen healthy volunteers were included. High repeatability of VD was found for wrist, forearm, shoulder, and upper arm (coefficient of variation (CV)=2.4, 2.7, 2.7, 2.0, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)=0.906, 0.854, 0.943, 0.916 respectively). The VD measurements showed no significant difference between the four locations in any of the three layers, ie papillary layer (P=.1063), reticular layer (P=.3371), and whole dermis layer (P=.3233).

Conclusion

Quantification of VD by using OCT/OMAG is repeatable when imaging skin tissue beds in healthy individuals.
Fecal microbiota transplantation outcomes in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients: A single‐center experience
Authors: Alrabaa Sally , Jariwala Ripal , Zeitler Kristen , Montero Jose
Published: May 2017

Background

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a major infectious disease focus for which fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been used with success in various patient populations.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of FMT in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients to review outcomes at our center, with a focus on identifying risk factors for FMT failure in solid organ transplant (SOT) patients. FMT was conducted using universal banked frozen stool via naso‐duodenal tube in patients with recurrent CDI of 3 or more episodes per our institutional protocol.

Results

Thirteen patients were included in the analysis, 6 who were immunocompetent and 7 who were immunocompromised. Of these, 6 patients had a history of SOT and were primarily abdominal organ recipients. All immunocompetent patients experienced success with FMT, while 3 immunocompromised SOT patients experienced failure. Two patients who failed FMT had a second FMT, which was successful in one patient and failed in the second patient. No adverse events were noted with FMT administration. A predictor of FMT failure was antimicrobial exposure pre‐FMT.

Conclusions

This study highlights the safe use of FMT for recurrent CDI with variable efficacy in immunocompromised patients. Antimicrobial exposure prior to FMT was an identified risk factor for FMT failure. The use of sequential FMT in SOT patients may be considered but ultimately requires further investigation.
Hair follicle specific ACVR1/ALK2 critically affects skin morphogenesis and attenuates wound healing
Authors: Sorkin Michael , Agarwal Shailesh , Ranganathan Kavitha , Loder Shawn , Cholok David , Fireman David , Li John , Li Shuli , Zhao Bin , Mishina Yuji , Cederna Paul , Levi Benjamin
Published: May 2017

The bone morphogenic protein signaling (BMP) is intricately involved in the quiescence and regulation of stem cells through activation of BMP receptors. Hair follicle stem cells play a critical role in cutaneous homeostasis and regeneration. Here, we utilize a novel mouse model with targeted overexpression of the BMP receptor ALK2/ACVR1 in hair follicle stem cells, to characterize its role in skin development and postnatal wound healing. Initial histologic evaluation demonstrated significant dysregulation in hair follicle morphogenesis in mutant mice. These demonstrated increased numbers of individual hair follicles with altered morphology and localization. Mutant follicles were found to exhibit elevated proliferative activity as well as increased prevalence of CD34 and ITGA6 positive follicle stem cells. Interestingly, constitutive overexpression of ALK2 resulted in attenuation of cutaneous wound healing. These findings demonstrate that hair follicle specific ALK2 is intricately involved in maintenance of the stem cell niche and wound healing.
Televised Entrepreneurial Discourse: Conversational Structure and Compliance Gaining Strategies
Authors: García-Gómez Antonio
Published: May 2017

Discourse analysis has focused extensively on argumentative and manipulative discourse. In particular, this present paper considers the different information-processing constraints at play in comprehending elicitations and responses and their role in the persuasive success of arguments. I use both a quantitative and qualitative method to examine in detail the pragma-discursive strategies employed by a panel of English and Spanish business experts in negotiating a business proposal with an entrepreneur in a media driven event. My data suggest that both British and Spanish panels of experts exploit a specific number of social influence tactics, mainly based on the use of elicit: agree, that makes it possible to identify why the interaction is successful. It is further suggested that the study of the basic unit of conversational organisation may throw light on the effectiveness of positioning oneself and others in discourse and show how British and Spanish business experts attempt to exert social influence.
Facilitation of mossy fibre‐driven spiking in the cerebellar nuclei by the synchrony of inhibition
Authors: Wu Yeechan , Raman Indira M.
Published: May 2017

Key points

Large premotor neurons of the cerebellar nuclei (CbN cells) integrate synaptic inhibition from Purkinje neurons and synaptic excitation from mossy fibres to generate cerebellar output.

We find that mossy fibre inputs to CbN cells generate unitary AMPA receptor EPSCs of ∼1 nS that decay in ∼1 ms and mildly voltage‐dependent NMDA receptor EPSCs of ∼0.6 nS that decay in ∼7 ms.

A few hundred mossy fibres active at a few tens of spikes s−1 must converge on CbN cells to generate physiological CbN spike rates (∼60 spikes s−1) during convergent inhibition from spontaneously active Purkinje cells.

Dynamic clamp studies in cerebellar slices from weanling mice demonstrate that synaptic excitation from mossy fibres becomes more effective at increasing the rate of CbN cell spiking when the coherence (synchrony) of convergent inhibition is increased.

Large projection neurons of the cerebellar nuclei (CbN cells), whose activity generates movement, are inhibited by Purkinje cells and excited by mossy fibres. The high convergence, firing rates and strength of Purkinje inputs predict powerful suppression of CbN cell spiking, raising the question of what activity patterns favour excitation over inhibition. Recording from CbN cells at near‐physiological temperatures in cerebellar slices from weanling mice, we measured the amplitude, kinetics, voltage dependence and short‐term plasticity of mossy fibre‐mediated EPSCs. Unitary EPSCs were small and brief (AMPA receptor, ∼1 nS, ∼1 ms; NMDA receptor, ∼0.6 nS, ∼7 ms) and depressed moderately. Using these experimentally measured parameters, we applied combinations of excitation and inhibition to CbN cells with dynamic clamp. Because Purkinje cells can fire coincident simple spikes during cerebellar behaviours, we varied the proportion (0–20 of 40) and precision (0–4 ms jitter) of synchrony of inhibitory inputs, along with the rates (0–100 spikes s−1) and number (0–800) of excitatory inputs. Even with inhibition constant, when inhibitory synchrony was higher, excitation increased CbN cell firing rates more effectively. Partial inhibitory synchrony also dictated CbN cell spike timing, even with physiological rates of excitation. These effects were present with ≥10 inhibitory inputs active within 2–4 ms of each other. Conversely, spiking was most effectively suppressed when inhibition was maximally asynchronous. Thus, the rate and relative timing of Purkinje‐mediated inhibition set the rate and timing of cerebellar output. The results suggest that increased coherence of Purkinje cell activity can facilitate mossy fibre‐driven spiking by CbN cells, in turn driving movements.
Enhanced Thermal Performance of Internal Y-Shaped Bifurcation Microchannel Heat Sinks With Metal Foams
Authors: Shen Han , Liu Xueting , Yan Hongbin , Xie Gongnan , Sunden Bengt
Published: May 2017

Internal Y-shaped bifurcation has been proved to be an advantageous way on improving thermal performance of microchannel heat sinks according to the previous research. Metal foams are known due to their predominate performance such as low-density, large surface area, and high thermal conductivity. In this paper, different parameters of metal foams in Y-shaped bifurcation microchannel heat sinks are designed and investigated numerically. The effects of Reynolds number, porosity of metal foam, and the pore density (PPI) of the metal foam on the microchannel heat sinks are analyzed in detail. It is found that the internal Y-shaped bifurcation microchannel heat sinks with metal foam exhibit better heat transfer enhancement and overall thermal performance. This research provides broad application prospects for heat sinks with metal foam in the thermal management of high power density electronic devices.
Heat and Mass Transfer Analysis in the Stagnation Region of Maxwell Fluid With Chemical Reaction Over a Stretched Surface
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Ijaz Khan Muhammad , Imtiaz Maria , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: May 2017

A simple model of homogeneous–heterogeneous process for Maxwell fluid flow in stagnation region past a stretched surface is constructed. It is assumed that the homogeneous process in the ambient fluid is governing by first-order kinetics and the heterogeneous process on the wall surface is given by isothermal cubic autocatalator kinetics. Flow by stretched surface with homogeneous–heterogeneous processes studied. Present problem is reduced to ordinary differential equations through appropriate transformation. Resulting problems have been solved for convergent solutions. Intervals of convergence for the obtained series solutions are explicitly determined. Behavior of important variables on the physical quantities is analyzed. Velocity is found decreasing function of Deborah number.
Detection of Degenerate Structure in Single Degree-of-Freedom Planetary Gear Trains
Authors: Venkata Kamesh Vinjamuri , Mallikarjuna Rao Kuchibhotla , Balaji Srinivasa Rao Annambhotla
Published: May 2017

Graph theory is a powerful tool in structural synthesis and analysis of planetary gear trains (PGTs). In this paper, a new algorithm has been developed for detecting degenerate structure in planetary gear trains. The proposed algorithm is based on the concept of fundamental circuits' rotation graphs. Detection of degeneracy is entirely based on finding one key element. The key element or link that makes planetary gear train into two groups is found in this work. The main advantage of the proposed method lies in the drastic reduction in the required combinatorial analysis compared to other methods available.
Study of Layer Formation During Droplet-Based Three-Dimensional Printing of Gel Structures
Authors: Christensen Kyle , Huang Yong
Published: May 2017

Additive manufacturing, also known as three-dimensional (3D) printing, is an approach in which a structure may be fabricated layer by layer. For 3D inkjet printing, droplets are ejected from a nozzle, and each layer is formed droplet by droplet. Inkjet printing has been widely applied for the fabrication of 3D biological gel structures, but the knowledge of the microscale interactions between printed droplets is still largely elusive. This study aims to elucidate the layer formation mechanism in terms of the formation of single lines and layers comprised of adjacent lines during drop-on-demand inkjet printing of alginate using high speed imaging and particle image velocimetry. Inkjet droplets are found to impact, spread, and coalesce within a fluid region at the deposition site, forming coherent printed lines within a layer. The effects of printing conditions on the behavior of droplets during layer formation are discussed and modeled based on gelation dynamics, and recommendations are presented to enable controllable and reliable fabrication of gel structures. The effects of gelation on droplet impact dynamics are found to be negligible during alginate printing, and interfaces are found to form between printed lines within a layer depending on printing conditions, printing path orientation, and gelation dynamics.
Surface dependent contact activation of factor XII and blood plasma coagulation induced by mixed thiol surfaces
Authors: Bauer James W. , Xu Li-Chong , Vogler Erwin A. , Siedlecki Christopher A.
Published: May 2017

Studies of the activation of FXII in both platelet poor plasma and in neat buffer solutions were undertaken for a series of mixed thiol self-assembled monolayers spanning a broad range of water wettability. A wide spectrum of carboxyl/methyl-, hydroxyl/methyl-, and amine/methyl-thiol modified surfaces were prepared, characterized, and then utilized as the procoagulant materials in a series of FXII activation studies. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was utilized to verify the sample surface's thiol composition and contact angles measured to determine the sample surface's wettability. These samples were then used in in vitro coagulation assays using a 50% mixture of recalcified plasma in phosphate buffered saline. Alternatively, the samples were placed into purified FXII solutions for 30 min to assess FXII activation in neat buffer solution. Plasma coagulation studies supported a strong role for anionic surfaces in contact activation, in line with the traditional models of coagulation, while the activation results in neat buffer solution demonstrated that FXIIa production is related to surface wettability with minimum levels of enzyme activation observed at midrange wettabilities, and no statistically distinguishable differences in FXII activation seen between highly wettable and highly nonwettable surfaces. Results demonstrated that the composition of the solution and the surface properties of the material all contribute to the observation of contact activation, and the activation of FXII is not specific to anionic surfaces as has been long believed.
Experimental investigation of trailing edge noise from stationary and rotating airfoils
Authors: Zajamsek Branko , Doolan Con J. , Moreau Danielle J. , Fischer Jeoffrey , Prime Zebb
Published: May 2017

Trailing edge noise from stationary and rotating NACA 0012 airfoils is characterised and compared with a noise prediction based on the semi-empirical Brooks, Pope, and Marcolini (BPM) model. The NACA 0012 is symmetrical airfoil with no camber and 12% thickness to chord length ratio. Acoustic measurements were conducted in an anechoic wind tunnel using a stationary NACA 0012 airfoil at 0° pitch angle. Airfoil self-noise emissions from rotating NACA 0012 airfoils mounted at 0° and 10° pitch angles on a rotor-rig are studied in an anechoic room. The measurements were carried out using microphone arrays for noise localisation and magnitude estimation using beamforming post-processing. Results show good agreement between peak radiating trailing edge noise emissions of stationary and rotating NACA 0012 airfoils in terms of the Strouhal number. Furthermore, it is shown that noise predictions based on the BPM model considering only two dimensional flow effects, are in good agreement with measurements for rotating airfoils, at these particular conditions.
Sit-Stand Desks To Reduce Workplace Sitting Time In Office Workers With Abdominal Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: MacEwen Brittany T. , Saunders Travis J. , MacDonald Dany J. , Burr Jamie F.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Sit-stand desks reduce workplace sitting time among healthy office workers; however, their metabolic and behavioral impact in higher risk populations remains unknown.

Methods:

25 office workers with abdominal obesity were randomized to an intervention (sit-stand workstation) or control group (seated desk) for 12 weeks. Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and cardiometabolic risk factors were assessed before and after the intervention period in both groups.

Results:

In comparison with the control group, which did not change, the intervention group experienced significant reductions in workday (344 ± 107 to 186 ± 101 min/day) and total (645 ± 140 to 528 ± 91 min/day) sitting time, as well as increases in workday standing time (154 ± 108 to 301 ± 101 min/day, P < .05). There were no changes in sitting or standing time outside of work hours, steps taken each day, or any marker of cardiometabolic risk in either group (all P > .05).

Conclusion:

Sit-stand desks were effective in reducing workplace sedentary behavior in an at-risk population, with no change in sedentary behavior or physical activity outside of work hours. However, these changes were not sufficient to improve markers of cardiometabolic risk in this population.
Childhood Socioeconomic Disadvantage, Occupational, Leisure-Time, and Household Physical Activity, and Diabetes in Adulthood
Authors: Tsenkova Vera K. , Lee Chioun , Boylan Jennifer Morozink
Published: May 2017

Background:

Regular physical activity is a key way to prevent disease. However, we have a limited understanding of the socioeconomic precursors and glucoregulatory sequelae of engaging in physical activity in different domains.

Methods:

We examined the associations among life course socioeconomic disadvantage; meeting the physical activity guidelines with leisure-time physical activity, occupational physical activity, or household physical activity; and prediabetes and diabetes in the Midlife in the United States national study (N = 986).

Results:

Childhood disadvantage was associated with lower odds of meeting the guidelines with leisure-time physical activity (odds ratio = 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.65–0.86). Adulthood disadvantage was associated with higher odds of meeting the guidelines with occupational physical activity (odds ratio = 1.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.49–2.53). Importantly, while meeting the guidelines with leisure-time physical activity was associated with lower odds of prediabetes and diabetes, we found no evidence for associations among occupational physical activity, household physical activity, and glucoregulation.

Conclusion:

Current US physical activity guidelines do not differentiate between physical activity for leisure or work, assuming that physical activity in any domain confers comparable health benefits. We documented important differences in the associations among lifetime socioeconomic disadvantage, physical activity domain, and diabetes, suggesting that physical activity domain potentially belongs in the guidelines, similar to other characteristics of activity (eg, type, intensity).
Worldwide Surveillance, Policy, and Research on Physical Activity and Health: The Global Observatory for Physical Activity
Authors: Varela Andrea Ramirez , Pratt Michael , Powell Kenneth , Lee I-Min , Bauman Adrian , Heath Gregory , Martins Rafaela Costa , Kohl Harold , Hallal Pedro C.
Published: May 2017

Background:

The Global Observatory for Physical Activity (GoPA!) was launched in response to the physical inactivity pandemic. The aim of this article is to present current information about surveillance, policy, and research on physical activity (PA) and health worldwide.

Methods:

Information was collected for 217 countries. For 139 of these nations we identified a contact who confirmed information’s accuracy and completeness. Associations were calculated among surveillance, policy and research categories.

Results:

Of the 139 countries, 90.6% reported having completed 1 or more PA survey, but less than one-third had 3 or more. 106 included PA on a national plan, but only one-quarter of these were PA-specific. At least 1 peer reviewed publication was identified for 63.3% of the countries. Positive associations (P < .001) were found between research and policy (ρ = 0.35), research and surveillance (ρ = 0.41), and surveillance and policy (ρ = 0.31). Countries with a standalone plan were more likely to have surveillance. Countries with more research were more likely to have a standalone plan and surveillance.

Conclusions:

Surveillance, policy, and research indicators were positively correlated, suggesting that action at multiple levels tends to stimulate progress in other areas. Efforts to expand PA-related surveillance, policy, and research in lower income countries are needed.
Factors Associated With Levels of Physical Activity in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: The Role of Dialysis Versus Nondialysis Day
Authors: da Costa Rosa Clara Suemi , Nishimoto Danilo Yuzo , Júnior Ismael Forte Freitas , Ciolac Emmanuel Gomes , Monteiro Henrique Luiz
Published: May 2017

Background:

Patients on hemodialysis (HD) report lower physical activity (PA) levels. We analyzed factors associated with low levels of PA in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and compared PA on HD day and non-HD.

Methods:

79 patients wore an accelerometer and were classified according to time spent on moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). Demographic data, BMI, comorbidities, clinical status, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were checked for association with PA. In addition, PA level was compared between days of HD and non-HD.

Results:

Accelerometer compliance was 78.5% [33 men and 29 women (53.96 ± 15.71 yrs) were included in analysis]. 35.5% of sample achieved ≥150min/week on MVPA. Lower MVPA was associated with older age (OR = 5.80, 95% CI = 1.11 to 30.19, P = .04), and lower score of physical function HRQoL (OR = 4.33, 95% CI = 1.23 to 15.23, P = .02). In addition, patients spent 9.73% more time on sedentary behavior, 38.9% less on light PA and 74.9% less on MVPA on HD day versus non-HD day.

Conclusion:

Age and physical function HRQoL were the main factors associated to lower PA levels. In addition, lower time spent on PA during HD day suggest that strategies for increasing physical activity levels during HD day such exercising during HD session could help CKD patients to reach current PA recommendations.
Neighborhood Built Environment and Socioeconomic Status in Relation to Active Commuting to School in Children
Authors: Molina-García Javier , Queralt Ana
Published: May 2017

Background:

The role of neighborhood type in active commuting to school (ACS) has not been extensively studied in children. The purpose of this study was to analyze the association between neighborhood built environment (walkability) and neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) with ACS among children.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study of 310 Spanish children (aged 10–12 y; 51% male) was conducted in 2015. Walkability was defined as an index of 3 built environment characteristics (ie, residential density, land-use mix, and street connectivity) based on geographical information system data. Children’s home and school neighborhoods were evaluated. ACS was evaluated by questionnaire. Mixed model regression analyses evaluated ACS in relation to neighborhood walkability and SES.

Results:

There were no significant SES–walkability interactions for ACS. Children living in more walkable neighborhoods reported 2.5 more trips per week compared with those living in less walkable neighborhoods (P < .001). Children attending schools located in lower SES neighborhoods reported more ACS trips per week than those attending schools in higher SES neighborhoods (P < .05).

Conclusions:

Home-neighborhood walkability and school-neighborhood SES were associated with ACS. This study highlights the importance of assessing children’s home environment and school environment when ACS behavior is analyzed.
Relationship Between Lower-Extremity Strength and Subjective Function in Individuals With Patellofemoral Pain
Authors: Glaviano Neal R. , Saliba Susan
Published: May 2017

Objective: Evaluate the relationship between subjective knee function and lower-extremity strength in individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP). Design: Cohort. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: Participants were 30 individuals with PFP (20 females and 10 males; 76.02 [17.88] kg, 173.04 [7.58] cm, and 24.9 [7] y). Main Outcome Measures: Subjects completed the Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADLS) and had lower-extremity hip and knee isometric strength assessed. Strength was compared between low and high subjective functioning ADLS groups. Correlations for strength and subjective function were assessed, with a linear regression utilized to determine if strength predicted subjective function. Results: Quadriceps strength was significantly greater in the high subjective function group (38.5 [13.9] percent body mass) than in the low subjective function group (27.88 [8.96] percent body mass, P = .02). Significant correlations were seen between the ADLS and all 5 lower-extremity strength measures (r = .376–.535). Quadriceps strength was a strong predictor of subjective function in those with PFP, explaining 28.6% of the total variance in the ADLS. Conclusions: Quadriceps strength was a strong predictor of subjective function when assessed by the ADLS in patients with PFP and significantly greater in those with higher subjective function. A strong relationship exists between self-reported function and lower-extremity strength, suggesting the need to evaluate and treat lower-extremity weakness.