bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell cycle‐dependent regulation of FtsZ in Escherichia coli in slow growth conditions
Authors: Männik Jaana , Walker Bryant E. , Männik Jaan
Published: September 2018

FtsZ is the key regulator of bacterial cell division. It initiates division by forming a dynamic ring‐like structure, the Z‐ring, at the mid‐cell. What triggers the formation of the Z‐ring during the cell cycle is poorly understood. In Escherichia coli, the common view is that FtsZ concentration is constant throughout its doubling time and therefore regulation of assembly is controlled by some yet‐to‐be‐identified protein‐protein interactions. Using a newly developed functional, fluorescent FtsZ reporter, we performed a quantitative analysis of the FtsZ concentration throughout the cell cycle under slow growth conditions. In contrast to the common expectation, we show that FtsZ concentrations vary in a cell cycle‐dependent manner, and that upregulation of FtsZ synthesis correlates with the formation of the Z‐ring. The first half of the cell cycle shows an approximately fourfold upregulation of FtsZ synthesis, followed by its rapid degradation by ClpXP protease in the last 10% of the cell cycle. The initiation of rapid degradation coincides with the dissociation of FtsZ from the septum. Altogether, our data suggest that the Z‐ring formation in slow growth conditions in E. coli is partially controlled by a regulatory sequence wherein upregulation of an essential cell cycle factor is followed by its degradation.
Cine MRI assessment of motility in the unprepared small bowel in the fasting and fed state: Beyond the breath‐hold
Authors: Khalaf Asseel , Nowak Adam , Menys Alex , Marciani Luca , Taylor Stuart A. , Spiller Robin C. , Gowland Penny A. , Moran Gordon W. , Hoad Caroline L.
Published: September 2018

Background

The symptoms of functional bowel disorders are common in postprandial but investigations are generally undertaken in the fasted state using invasive procedures. MRI provides a noninvasive tool to study the gastrointestinal tract in an unperturbed, fed state. The aim of this study was to develop a technique to assess small bowel motility from cine MRI data in the unprepared bowel in fasting and fed states.

Methods

Fifteen healthy volunteers underwent a baseline MRI scan after which they consumed a 400 g soup. Subjects then underwent a postprandial scan followed by further scans at regular intervals. Small bowel motility was assessed using single‐slice bTFE cine MRI. An optimized processing technique was used to generate motility data based on power spectrum analysis of voxel‐signal changes with time. Interobserver variability (n = 15) and intra‐observer (n = 6) variability were assessed. Changes in the motility index were compared between fasted and immediate postprandial state.

Key Results

Excellent agreement between observers was seen across the range of motility measurements acquired, with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.979 (P < 0.0001) and Bland‐Altman limits of agreement 95% CI: −28.9 to 45.9 au. Intra‐observer variability was low with ICC of 0.992 and 0.960 (2 observers, P < 0.0001). Changes from the fasted to immediately postprandial state showed an average increase of 122.4% ± 98.7% (n = 15).

Conclusions & Inferences

This optimized technique showed excellent inter and intra observer agreement. It was sensitive to changes in motility induced feeding. This technique will be useful to study contractile activity and regional patterns along the gastrointestinal tract under physiological conditions.
Hydrogen sulfide downregulates colonic afferent sensitivity by a nitric oxide synthase‐dependent mechanism in mice
Authors: Xu Xiaomeng , Li Shuang , Shi Yao , Tang Yan , Lu Wen , Han Ting , Xue Bing , Li Jingxin , Liu Chuanyong
Published: September 2018

Background

The effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on visceral nociception is elusive. The conflicting evidence of its pro‐ and antinociceptive effects raises a series of questions with respect to the effect of H2S on colonic afferent activity and the underlying mechanism, which was further elucidated in this study.

Methods

Colonic mesenteric afferent nerve spikes of normal male C57BL/6J mice, Cbs+/− mice, and Wistar rats were recorded in vitro. The abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) induced by colorectal distension (CRD) was evaluated in Cbs+/− mice and WT littermates.

Key Results

Sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) significantly decreased colonic afferent spontaneous discharge, chemosensitivity to bradykinin, mechanosensitivity to ramp distention, and intraluminal pressure in mice. Reducing the relaxant action of NaHS on intestinal smooth muscle using the nonspecific K+ channel blocker TEA (10 mmol/L) did not block the inhibition of NaHS on afferent nerve activity. The inhibitory effects of NaHS (0.5 mmol/L) on colonic afferent sensitivity were largely eliminated by the pretreatment with nonspecific NOS inhibitor NG‐Methyl‐l‐arginine acetate salt (1 mmol/L), the specific nNOS inhibitor NPLA (1 μmol/L), or N‐type Ca2+ channel blocker ω‐conotoxin GVIA (1 μmol/L). Compared with WT mice, Cbs+/− mice showed increased mesenteric afferent sensitivity to colonic distention and enhanced hyperalgesic response to CRD. Intraperitoneal administration of NaHS (60 μmol/kg) alleviated the nociception response to CRD in both Cbs+/− and WT mice.

Conclusions and Inferences

H2S downregulates colonic mesenteric afferent sensitivity by a nNOS‐dependent mechanism in mice. Our findings may demonstrate a new mechanism for the antinociceptive effect of H2S in colon.
Variation in abundance of predicted resistance genes in the Brassica oleracea pangenome
Authors: Bayer Philipp E. , Golicz Agnieszka A. , Tirnaz Soodeh , Chan Chon‐Kit Kenneth , Edwards David , Batley Jacqueline
Published: September 2018

Brassica oleracea is an important agricultural species encompassing many vegetable crops including cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and kale; however, it can be susceptible to a variety of fungal diseases such as clubroot, blackleg, leaf spot and downy mildew. Resistance to these diseases is meditated by specific disease resistance genes analogs (RGAs) which are differently distributed across B. oleracea lines. The sequenced reference cultivar does not contain all B. oleracea genes due to gene presence/absence variation between individuals, which makes it necessary to search for RGA candidates in the B. oleracea pangenome. Here we present a comparative analysis of RGA candidates in the pangenome of B. oleracea. We show that the presence of RGA candidates differs between lines and suggests that in B. oleracea, SNPs and presence/absence variation drive RGA diversity using separate mechanisms. We identified 59 RGA candidates linked to Sclerotinia, clubroot, and Fusarium wilt resistance QTL, and these findings have implications for crop breeding in B. oleracea, which may also be applicable in other crops species.
Development and evaluation of novel salt‐tolerantEucalyptustrees by molecular breeding using anRNA‐Binding‐Proteingene derived from common ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinumL.)
Authors: Tran Ngoc‐Ha Thi , Oguchi Taichi , Akatsuka Nobuhumi , Matsunaga Etsuko , Kawaoka Akiyoshi , Yamada Akiyo , Ozeki Yoshihiro , Watanabe Kazuo N. , Kikuchi Akira
Published: September 2018

The breeding of plantation forestry trees for the possible afforestation of marginal land would be one approach to addressing global warming issues. Here, we developed novel transgenicEucalyptustrees (Eucalyptus camaldulensisDehnh.) harbouring anRNA‐Binding‐Protein(McRBP) gene derived from a halophyte plant, common ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinumL.). We conducted screened‐house trials of the transgenicEucalyptususing two different stringency salinity stress conditions to evaluate the plants’ acute and chronic salt stress tolerances. Treatment with 400 mM NaCl, as the high‐stringency salinity stress, resulted in soil electrical conductivity (EC) levels >20 mS/cm within 4 weeks. With the 400 mM NaCl treatment, >70% of the transgenic plants were intact, whereas >40% of the non‐transgenic plants were withered. Treatment with 70 mM NaCl, as the moderate‐stringency salinity stress, resulted in soilEClevels of approx. 9 mS/cm after 2 months, and these salinity levels were maintained for the next 4 months. All plants regardless of transgenic or non‐transgenic status survived the 70 mM NaCl treatment, but after 6‐month treatment the transgenic plants showed significantly higher growth and quantum yield of photosynthesis levels compared to the non‐transgenic plants. In addition, the salt accumulation in the leaves of the transgenic plants was 30% lower than that of non‐transgenic plants after 15‐week moderate salt stress treatment. There results suggest thatMcRBPexpression in the transgenicEucalyptusenhances their salt tolerance both acutely and chronically.
Toward a Perceptual Account of Mindreading
Authors: Varga Somogy
Published: September 2018

A number of philosophers argue that consistent with the phenomenology of everyday mindreading, appropriately endowed observers are sometimes able to visually perceive that someone is angry. Call this view the Perceptual Account of Mindreading (PA). The paper starts by exploring the merits and limits of the main strategies that have been employed to defend PA. The second aim is to present and defend a version of PA, according to which some mental properties can be observational properties. Providing support for this thesis includes a shift of focus to properties presented in perceptual experience and a systematic examination of a body of recent empirical material on animacy perception and visual aftereffects.
Assessing, with limited resources, the ecological outcomes of wetland restoration: a South African case
Authors: Kotze Donovan C. , Tererai Farai , Grundling Piet‐Louis
Published: September 2018

Resources for evaluating the ecological outcomes of ecosystem restoration projects are often limited, especially within government‐funded programs. In order to rapidly assess the ecological outcomes of wetland restoration, an improved approach has been developed, which was applied in the assessment of the ecological outcomes at nine restoration sites of South Africa's Working for Wetlands program. The sites encompass a diversity of restoration problems and land use contexts. The approach begins by distinguishing hydrogeomorphic (HGM) units, for which ecological condition is assessed and reported for hydrology, geomorphology, and vegetation pre‐ and post‐restoration. These three components are closely linked but, as demonstrated at some of the sites, may respond differentially to restoration interventions. For most HGM units, overall ecological condition was improved by between 10 and 30%, with the greatest contribution of restoration generally being to the hydrology component. Having determined the integrity and costs of the interventions, cost‐effectiveness is then reported in South African Rands per hectare equivalent restored, which was found to vary by more than an order of magnitude across the HGM units assessed. Cost‐effectiveness must be interpreted in the light of the long‐term integrity of the interventions, the site's landscape context, and the contribution of restoration to ecosystem services provision. Some sites may be considerably less cost‐effective than others, but the cost may nonetheless be justified if the sites make key contributions to ecosystem services provision. The study was conducted in the context of a formative evaluation and the findings are envisaged to improve wetland restoration practice.
Red blood cell transfusion in acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Du Kailei , Bao Ligang , Shen Yanfei
Published: September 2018

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Stable and clumped isotopes in desert carbonate spring and lake deposits reveal palaeohydrology: A case study of the Lower Jurassic Navajo Sandstone, south‐western USA
Authors: Parrish Judith Totman , Hyland Ethan G. , Chan Marjorie A. , Hasiotis Stephen T.
Published: September 2018

Carbon, oxygen and clumped isotope (Δ47) values were measured from lacustrine and tufa (spring)‐mound carbonate deposits in the Lower Jurassic Navajo Sandstone of southern Utah and northern Arizona in order to understand the palaeohydrology. These carbonate deposits are enriched in both 18O and 13C across the basin from east to west; neither isotope is strongly sensitive to the carbonate facies. However, 18O is enriched in lake carbonate deposits compared to the associated spring mounds. This is consistent with evaporation of the spring waters as they exited the mounds and were retained in interdune lakes. Clumped isotopes (Δ47) exhibit minor systematic differences between lake and tufa‐mound temperatures, suggesting that the rate of carbonate formation under ambient conditions was moderate. These clumped isotope values imply palaeotemperature elevated beyond reasonable surface temperatures (54 to 86°C), which indicates limited bond reordering at estimated burial depths of ca 4 to 5 km, consistent with independent estimates of sediment thickness and burial depth gradients across the basin. Although clumped isotopes do not provide surface temperature information in this case, they still provide useful burial information and support interpretations of the evolution of groundwater locally. The findings of this study significantly extend the utility of combining stable isotope and clumped isotope methods into aeolian environments.
High‐density electromyography activity in various hamstring exercises
Authors: Hegyi András , Csala Dániel , Péter Annamária , Finni Taija , Cronin Neil J
Published: September 2018

Proximal‐distal differences in muscle activity are rarely considered when defining the activity level of hamstring muscles. The aim of this study was to determine the inter‐muscular and proximal‐distal electromyography (EMG) activity patterns of hamstring muscles during common hamstring exercises. Nineteen amateur athletes without a history of hamstring injury performed 9 exercises, while EMG activity was recorded along the biceps femoris long head (BFlh) and semitendinosus (ST) muscles using 15‐channel high‐density electromyography (HD‐EMG) electrodes. EMG activity levels normalized to those of a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC) were determined for the eccentric and concentric phase of each exercise and compared between different muscles and regions (proximal, middle, distal) within each muscle. Straight‐knee bridge, upright hip extension, and leg curls exhibited the highest hamstrings activity in both the eccentric (40%‐54%MVIC) and concentric phases (69%‐85%MVIC). Hip extension was the only BF‐dominant exercise (Cohen's d = 0.28 (eccentric) and 0.33 (concentric)). Within ST, lower distal than middle/proximal activity was found in the bent‐knee bridge and leg curl exercises (d range = 0.53‐1.20), which was not evident in other exercises. BFlh also displayed large regional differences across exercises (d range = 0.00‐1.28). This study demonstrates that inter‐muscular and proximal‐distal activity patterns are exercise‐dependent, and in some exercises are affected by the contraction mode. Knowledge of activity levels and relative activity of hamstring muscles in different exercises may assist exercise selection in hamstring injury management.
Peak oxygen uptake cut‐points to identify children at increased cardiometabolic risk – The PANIC Study
Authors: Agbaje Andrew O. , Haapala Eero A. , Lintu Niina , Viitasalo Anna , Barker Alan R. , Takken Tim , Tompuri Tuomo , Lindi Virpi , Lakka Timo A.
Published: September 2018

We aimed to develop cut‐points for directly measured peak oxygen uptake () to identify boys and girls at increased cardiometabolic risk using different scaling methods to control for body size and composition. Altogether 352 children (186 boys, 166 girls) aged 9‐11 years were included in the analyses. We measured V̇O2peak directly during a maximal cycle ergometer exercise test and lean body mass (LM) by bioelectrical impedance. We computed a sex‐ and age‐specific cardiometabolic risk score (CRS) by summing important cardiometabolic risk factors and defined increased cardiometabolic risk as >1 standard deviation above the mean of CRS. Receiver operating characteristics curves were used to detect V̇O2peak cut‐points for increased cardiometabolic risk. Boys with V̇O2peak <45.8 mL kg body mass (BM)−1 min−1 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 45.1 to 54.6, area under the curve [AUC] = 0.86, P < 0.001) and <63.2 mL kg LM−1 min−1 (95% CI =52.4 to 67.5, AUC = 0.65, P = 0.006) had an increased CRS. Girls with V̇O2peak <44.1 mL kg BM−1 min−1 (95% CI = 44.0 to 58.6, AUC = 0.67, P = 0.013) had an increased CRS. V̇O2peak scaled by BM−0.49 and LM−0.77 derived from log‐linear allometric modeling poorly predicted increased cardiometabolic risk in boys and girls. In conclusion, directly measured <45.8 mL kg BM−1 min−1 among boys and <44.1 mL kg BM−1 min−1 among girls were cut‐points to identify those at increased cardiometabolic risk. Appropriately controlling for body size and composition reduced the ability of cardiorespiratory fitness to identify children at increased cardiometabolic risk.
How Increasing Party Diversity May Lead to Worsening Reported Racial Attitudes*
Authors: Stout Christopher T. , Baker Keith
Published: September 2018

Objective

To explore whether increases in diversity give partisans immunity from claims of racial prejudice. To assess when individuals are more likely to report racially progressive attitudes when their party is accused of racism and racial representation in the party varies.

Method

We implement a survey experiment where individuals are told their party harbors either racial or religious prejudice and then are asked to vote on a party primary election in which the race of the candidates varies.

Results

We find that white Republicans modify their racial attitudes in response to accusations of racism. However, this effect disappears when white Republicans are presented with evidence of racial/ethnic diversity in their party.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that racial/ethnic diversity in one's political party may delegitimize claims of racial bias and minimize these accusations' ability to alter racial attitudes.
A Solanum neorickii introgression population providing a powerful complement to the extensively characterized Solanum pennellii population
Authors: Brog Yaacov Micha , Osorio Sonia , Yichie Yoav , Alseekh Saleh , Bensal Elad , Kochevenko Andriy , Zamir Dani , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: September 2018

Summary

We present a complementary resource for trait fine‐mapping in tomato to those based on the intra‐specific cross between cultivated tomato and the wild tomato species Solanum pennellii, which have been extensively used for quantitative genetics in tomato over the last 20 years. The current population of backcross inbred lines (BILs) is composed of 107 lines derived after three backcrosses of progeny of the wild species Solanum neorickii (LA2133) and cultivated tomato (cultivar TA209) and is freely available to the scientific community. These S. neorickii BILs were genotyped using the 10K SolCAP single nucleotide polymorphism chip, and 3111 polymorphic markers were used to map recombination break points relative to the physical map of Solanum lycopersicum. The BILs harbor on average 4.3 introgressions per line, with a mean introgression length of 34.7 Mbp, allowing partitioning of the genome into 340 bins and thereby facilitating rapid trait mapping. We demonstrate the power of using this resource in comparison with archival data from the S. pennellii resources by carrying out metabolic quantitative trait locus analysis following gas chromatography–mass spectrometry on fruits harvested from the S. neorickii BILs. The metabolic candidate genes phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase and cystathionine gamma‐lyase were then tested and validated in F2 populations and via agroinfiltration‐based overexpression in order to exemplify the fidelity of this method in identifying the genes that drive tomato metabolic phenotypes.
Anti‐D from alloimmunization versus RhIG: detective work in the blood bank and transfusion medicine services
Authors: Berry Debra , DiGuardo Margaret , Mo Yunchuan Delores , Wehrli Gay
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

The blood bank and transfusion medicine services (BBTMS) engages with electronic health records (EHRs), clinicians, and outside hospitals (OHs) to obtain comprehensive patient history to optimize care. Detection of anti‐D in a pregnant patient underscores this work. Differentiating passive anti‐D due to RhIG administration versus alloanti‐D affects clinical decision making. The objectives of this study were to identify the required steps, barriers, and outcomes of anti‐D investigations in obstetric patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective case series reviewed nine pregnant patients over 24 months, for whom anti‐D was identified with no reported RhIG history. Six steps were performed to ascertain anti‐D history: 1) review the on‐site EHR; 2) contact the on‐site obstetrician, 3) review history from the automatic health information exchange (HIE) with OHs using the same EHR platform, 4) request information from OHs with a shared EHR platform and without automatic HIE, 5) contact the OH BBTMS, and 6) communicate with the outside ambulatory practice (OAP).

RESULTS

The investigations revealed that eight of nine patients received RhIG before their presentation. Five patients received RhIG at an OH's emergency department and three at an OAP. One patient's history remained unknown after initial investigations; however, a subsequent sample unveiled a confounding alloantibody.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of a national HIE, continuity of care suffers through omission of critical information. Strategies to avoid confusing passive anti‐D and alloanti‐D include expanding HIE capabilities and use of patient identification cards with critical BBTMS information to include RhIG administration dates.
Generation of procoagulant collagen‐ and thrombin‐activated platelets in platelet concentrates derived from buffy coat: the role of processing, pathogen inactivation, and storage
Authors: Bertaggia Calderara Debora , Crettaz David , Aliotta Alessandro , Barelli Stefano , Tissot Jean‐Daniel , Prudent Michel , Alberio Lorenzo
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Collagen‐ and thrombin‐activated (COAT) platelets (PLTs), generated by dual‐agonist stimulation with collagen and thrombin (THR), enhance THR generation at the site of vessel wall injury. There is evidence that higher amounts of procoagulant COAT PLTs are associated with stroke, while a decreased ability to generate them is associated with bleeding diathesis. Our aim was to study PLT functions, particularly the ability to generate COAT PLTs, in PLT concentrates (PCs) from buffy coat. Thus, we investigated the effect of processing, pathogen inactivation treatment (amotosalen‐UVA), and PC storage.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Two PCs from five donors each were pooled and split in two bags; one of them was pathogen inactivated and the other one was left untreated (n = 5). Flow cytometric analyses were performed immediately after PC preparation (Day 1) and thereafter on Days 2, 5, 7, and 9 in treated and untreated PCs to measure the reactivity of PLTs (CD62P and PAC‐1), the content and secretion of dense granule after stimulation with different agonists, and the percentage of COAT PLTs after dual stimulation with convulxin (agonist of the collagen receptor GPVI) and THR.

RESULTS

Preparation of PCs resulted in a significant decrease of COAT PLTs and in an impaired response to adenosine 5′‐diphosphate sodium (ADP). Storage further decreased ADP response. Minor differences were observed between untreated or amotosalen‐UVA–treated PCs.

CONCLUSION

Preparation of PCs from buffy coats decreased the ability to generate COAT PLTs and impaired PLT response to ADP.
Examining Dutch disease across Australian regions
Authors: Shafiullah Muhammad , Selvanathan Saroja , Naranpanawa Athula , Chai Andreas
Published: September 2018

The recent mining boom represents one of the largest external shocks to the Australian economy in its post‐war history. Although most agree that it had a positive effect on the Australian economy as well as on people’s living standards, there is disagreement over the extent to which this boom has caused deindustrialisation and the so‐called Dutch disease in Australia. Our empirical findings support the presence of Dutch disease nationally for Australia using data for the period 1984–2013. Regionally, the results show that Dutch disease was concentrated mainly in the eastern and southern states of Australia—Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania.
Long‐term culture and in vitro maturation of macroencapsulated adult and neonatal porcine islets
Authors: Mourad Nizar I. , Gianello Pierre
Published: September 2018

Encapsulated porcine islets could be used to treat type I diabetes without necessitating severe immunosuppression. Islet survival and secretory function in the encapsulation device need to be preserved to ensure efficient insulin output in response to surrounding stimuli. In the present study, we evaluated stimulated insulin secretion from adult and neonatal pig islets seeded on an acellular collagen matrix and encapsulated in alginate during long‐term culture. Pig islets survived longer and secreted more insulin when cultured on acellular porcine dermis compared to human fascia. Islets from neonatal pigs could survive up to 33 weeks in vitro, and their insulin secretion increased during the first 5 weeks of culture in a beta‐cell maturation medium. In fact, by the 4th week of culture, insulin secretion from neonatal islets attained the same level as adult islets and even surpassed it by the 18th week. Our results show that in vitro maturation of encapsulated neonatal porcine islets is possible and can actually compensate the initial low insulin secretion from these islets while allowing enough time to perform complete functional and biosafety characterization of islets before transplantation.
Cryptic speciation yields remarkable mimics: A new genus of sea slugs that masquerade as toxic algae (Caulerpa spp.)
Authors: Krug Patrick J. , Wong Nur Leena W. S. , Medina Melanie R. , Gosliner Terrence M. , Valdés Ángel A.
Published: September 2018

“Cryptic” can refer to species that match their background through camouflage or disruptive colouration, or in taxonomy to externally similar but unrecognized congeners. In adaptive resemblance, organisms resemble parts of a larger host animal or plant on which the mimic is highly cryptic. Mimetic lineages that radiate onto superficially similar hosts may contain cryptic species in both senses: taxa that are difficult to detect, and challenging for taxonomists to distinguish. Here, we describe a new genus and four species of herbivorous sea slugs (Gastropoda, Heterobranchia, Sacoglossa), including remarkable mimics of toxic green algae (Caulerpa spp.) on which the slugs feed. The long‐recognized Stiliger smaragdinus Baba 1949 is highly mimetic of “sea grapes” (Caulerpa racemosa‐lentillifera), but phylogenetic analyses of four genes indicated Stiliger was polyphyletic: the name‐bearing species grouped within Placida, whereas Caulerpa‐mimetic lineages were phylogenetically distinct. We erect the genus Sacoproteus gen. n. for S. smaragdinus (Baba 1949), and describe four new species: S. nishae sp. n. from the Indo‐Pacific, which mimics Caulerpa chemnitzia; Sacoproteus yhiae sp. n. and Sacoproteus browni sp. n. from southern Australia, which mimic Caulerpa cactoides and Caulerpa gemminata; and Sacoproteus thomasleei sp. n., a non‐mimetic west Pacific species that shared key features. Stiliger s.s. and Placida species show crypsis and aposematism but not host mimicry, although Stiliger spp. feeding on undefended algae may be Batesian mimics. Investigating the ecology and biogeography of Sacoproteus gen. n. will yield insight into how selection generates such extraordinary examples of adaptive resemblance in the marine realm.
Population structure and phylogenetic relationships of a new shallow‐water Antarctic phyllodocid annelid
Authors: Leiva Carlos , Riesgo Ana , Avila Conxita , Rouse Greg W. , Taboada Sergi
Published: September 2018

Shallow‐water polychaetes are abundant and diverse components of the Southern Ocean benthic communities, and although they have been widely studied, new species that are relatively common are still discovered. Here, we report the discovery of Pterocirrus giribeti sp. n., a new and abundant intertidal and upper‐subtidal Antarctic phyllodocid. To establish the phylogenetic relationships of the new species, we sequenced two nuclear (18S and 28S) and two mitochondrial (COI and 16S) markers. Although the phylogenetic relationships obtained for the family Phyllodocidae were not fully resolved, we assigned our new phyllodocid to the genus Pterocirrus based on both its phylogenetic position and its morphological characters. Using COI and 16S sequences of 126 and 118 individuals, respectively, from eight populations across the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, we also investigated the genetic diversity and gene flow patterns of this new species. Our results suggested that all populations were panmictic, likely due to the presence of planktotrophic larvae allowing long‐distance dispersal. Interestingly, some genetic substructure was detected despite panmixis, and we identified a semipermeable barrier coinciding with an oceanic front produced by the intrusion into the Bransfield Strait of a tongue of water from the Weddell Sea. This front produced signatures of differentiation on populations at the tip of the West Antarctic Peninsula. Moreover, our results indicated a recent demographic expansion throughout the sampled area, in agreement with the “glacial refugium” hypothesis stated for other Antarctic shallow‐water invertebrates.
Factors Affecting Membrane Distillation Process for Seawater Desalination
Authors: Thi Tra My Ngo , Thi Yen Nhi Vo , Xuan Thanh Bui
Published: September 2018

Membrane distillation (MD), a process based on the thermal principle, is a combination of distillation and membrane separation in the same unit. There are many factors that can affect the MD performance, but the membrane characteristics are the most important in this process. The changes in the membrane properties affect the process efficiency, the permeate flux as well as the membrane lifetime. Some of the membrane properties mentioned in this paper include liquid entry pressure (LEP), contact angle, pore size, porosity, thickness, thermal conductivity, support layer, tortuosity, etc. This review paper aims to evaluate the membrane properties in order to reduce membrane wetting and to improve desalination efficiency. From this review, it can be seen that the LEP and contact angle are the important factors which directly affect the hydrophobicity of the membrane. When LEP and the contact angle increase, the hydrophobicity of the membrane increases. Thus, the membrane is durable and the MD system works efficiently. The remaining factors indirectly affect the operation of the MD system through LEP and contact angle (hydrophobicity).
Investigation on the Breakdown Characteristics of Different Types of Lightning Rods
Authors: Ahmad Noor Azlinda , Zainal Rosniza , Adzis Zuraimy
Published: September 2018

This paper investigates the voltage breakdown characteristics of three types of lightning rods - blunt, sharp and flat. The objectives of this study are to determine the voltage breakdown characteristics of various types of lightning rods and to obtain the striking distance of each rod. A series of experiments were conducted in the high voltage laboratory consisting of individual testing rod, competitive testing rod and also horizontal distance changing. All three types of rods have been tested in each experiment in order to obtain a comprehensive result. The blunt rod has been proven as the best strike receptor in comparison to sharp and flat rod. This is because breakdown voltage for blunt rod is much lower (199 kV) than that of flat and sharp rod. Therefore, replacement of widely used sharp rod with the blunt one should be considered in order to provide better protection for buildings from lightning activities.
EFFECTS OF SNAIL SHELL ASH ON LIME STABILIZED LATERITIC SOIL
Authors: Nnochiri Emeka Segun , Ogundipe Olumide Moses , Emeka Helen Oluyemisi
Published: September 2018

As a result of increase in population and socioeconomic activities, the rate of production of wastes over the years has been on the rise. A major approach towards managing these wastes is to consider the possibility of waste recycle and minimization. This study assesses the effects of Snail Shell Ash (SSA), a product of snail shell-which itself is a waste product, on lime stabilized lateritic soil. Preliminary tests such as; specific gravity, Atterberg limits and particle size distribution tests were carried out on natural soil sample, for the purposes of identification and classification. The soil sample based on AASHTO classification was classified as A-7-5. Hydrated lime was added to the soil sample at varying proportions of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% by weight of soil, thereafter, each of the mixes was subjected to Atterberg limits tests to get the optimal amount of lime required, which was 10% lime because it was at this amount of lime that the least value of plasticity index was gotten. The Snail Shell Ash was later added to the lime-treated lateritic soil at proportions of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10%. Each of the mixes was subjected to compaction, California bearing ratio (CBR), Atterberg limits and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests. Results from these tests showed improvement in soil properties, also, the values of the CBR and UCS increased considerably. At soil natural states, CBR values of 9.5% and 5.5% increased to 67.20% and 53.60% at 6% SSA at unsoaked and soaked states respectively. Also, UCS value of 190 kN/m2 at soil natural increased to 380kN/m2 at 6% SSA. It can be concluded that the SSA performs satisfactorily as a cheap complement for lime in stabilizing lateritic soil.
PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CEMENT MORTAR USING LIME AND BAMBOO-ASH AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENTS
Authors: David Nkumah Lucky , Hassan Lasisi Kayode
Published: September 2018

The effect of varying different proportion of bamboo ash and lime as partial replacement for cement in mortar were studied. Bamboo stalks were collected and burned into bamboo ash in furnace. The results of the physical and mechanical properties of the cement and aggregate used were within the requirements stipulated by relevant standards. The mix proportion 1:6 was used out of which 2%, 4% of bamboo ash and 2%, 4% of lime were used to partially replace cement in the mortar. The compressive strength of most of the mortar cubes increases with curing days and their values lie within the required strength of 2.5 N/mm2 – 6.5 N/mm2 as stipulated by relevant codes. The water absorption rate was observed to increase with increase in bamboo ash and lime content, while the density decreases as the percentage of bamboo ash and lime in the mortar increases by mass. The study therefore can be concluded that in the presence of significant proportion (i.e. 4% or more) of bamboo ash the strength of mortar increased hence making it adequate for the production of masonry mortar and reduces building failure.
INVESTIGATION ON THE FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF PALM KERNEL SHELL CONCRETE FOR STRUCTURAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: I.T. Yusuf , Y.O. Babatunde , A. Abdullah
Published: September 2018

An increase in the cost of conventional aggregate and the resulting environmental ecological imbalance has propelled research in the use of organic and industrial wastes as alternatives. The use of palm kernel shell concrete (PKSC) for structural applications such as beams is yet to be explored, mainly as a result of fewer research in the flexural strength of PKSC. This study investigates the flexural strength of palm kernel shell concrete (PKSC) for structural applications such as beams. Standard 150 x 150 x 150mm cube size and 100 x 100 x 500mm prisms of PKSC samples were casted at 1:1:2 mix ratio at water cement ratio of 0.5, and tested at age of 7, 14, 21 and 28 days according to BS EN 12390 – 3 (2002) and BS EN 12390 - 5 (2000). Method of batch by volume was adopted. At 28 days, the results show that the PKSC beam can support a load of 3981N with a deflection and flexural strength of 0.947mm and 2.883N/mm2 respectively. Also, the theoretical values of flexural strength and deflection compares well with the experimental values. A power equation in the form y = axn relating flexural strength with compressive strength produced a R2 value of 0.94 and relative predictive error of 0.028, the latter compares well with ACI 363 (1992) minimum value of 0.026 for power equations.
MODELING SINGLE BARRETTES AS ELASTIC SUPPORT BY CCT
Authors: El Gendy Mahmoud , Ibrahim Hassan , El Arabi Ibrahim
Published: September 2018

Classical analyses of barrette foundation taking into account full interactions between barrette and the surrounding soil leads to a huge barrette stiffness matrix. Consequently, a large system of linear equations must be solved, especially for analyzing barrette group and barrette raft. To overcome this problem, a Composed Coefficient Technique (CCT) is developed for analyzing barrette. In the analysis, the elasticity of the barrette body is considered using the finite element method, while that of the soil elements is considered using flexibility coefficients. The compatibility between the vertical displacements of the barrette and the soil settlements at the soil-barrette interface is taken in the vertical direction only. This assumption is that the external load on the barrette head, which is expected to be heavy load, is applied in the vertical direction. For comparative examinations, the barrette elasticity is determined using either 1D or 3D finite elements. A series of examinations is carried out to verify the application for analyzing barrette by CCT. It was found that, treating the barrette as an elastic body and representing the barrette by either 1D or 3D finite elements, gives nearly the same results.
Soft Factor In the Implementation of Quality Management Program in Majlis Agama Islam Selangor (MAIS)
Authors: Ahmadun Musaiyadah , Basir Siti Arni , Md Rasip Osman
Published: September 2018

Many studies on the implementation of quality management programs were carried out by previous researchers. However, the study on the soft or human factors in the implementation of quality management programs is still poorly explored. Therefore, this article aims to analyze soft factors in the implementation of quality management programs at Selangor Islamic Religious Council or Majlis Agama Islam Selangor (MAIS). This study uses a qualitative method involving MAIS as a case study. Semi-structured interviews were used as a data collection method and supported by relevant documents collected from MAIS. A total of fifteen informants comprising top management and MAIS officers were interviewed to obtain in-depth information on the subjects studied. The findings reveal that there are six soft factors emerged in the implementation of quality management programs at MAIS namely leadership, training and development, teamwork, customer focus, Syura and rewards. This study demonstrates that soft factors has helped facilitate the implementation of quality management programs in MAIS. The results of this study can be used as guidance by managers in public or corporate organizatons in their efforts to implement quality management programs effectively.
Trend Pembelajaran Menggunakan Multimedia Interaktif Dalam Bidang Pendidikan Teknikal : Satu Sorotan Literatur
Authors: Salsidu Siti Zulaidah , Azman Mohamed Nor Azhari , Pratama Hendri
Published: September 2018

Technology is keeping pace with the progress of education in the country. The rapid development in information technology and computing indirectly change the education system in Malaysia. Teachersnowadays is not just teach by use of lime and speak orally, they are also exposed to the use of technology in teaching. This scenario shows the rapid usage of computers in teaching and learning process (P&P). Study was intended to show the trend of learning using Interactive Multimedia in Technical Education. These is the conceptual framework for the study. The purpose of this study was to examine the changing  trendsof  Multimedia Interactive Learning patterns of  the usage of multimedia educational media specified in Technical Education between the years 1900-2013. The results for the perspective on the use of Interactive Multimedia is very helpful in the learning and teaching process in the school.
Water bottle flipping physics
Authors: Dekker P. J. , Eek L. A. G. , Flapper M. M. , Horstink H. J. C. , Meulenkamp A. R. , van der Meulen J. , Kooij E. S. , Snoeijer J. H. , Marin A.
Published: September 2018

The water bottle flipping challenge consists of spinning a bottle, partially filled with water, and making it land upright. It is quite a striking phenomenon, since at first sight, it appears rather improbable that a tall rotating bottle could make such a stable landing. Here, we analyze the physics behind the water bottle flip, based on experiments and an analytical model that can be used in the classroom. Our measurements show that the angular velocity of the bottle decreases dramatically, enabling a nearly vertical descent and a successful landing. The reduced rotation is due to an increase in the moment of inertia, caused by the in-flight redistribution of the water mass along the bottle. Experimental and analytical results are compared quantitatively, and we demonstrate how to optimize the chances for a successful landing.
Structural investigation of a chaperonin in action reveals how nucleotide binding regulates the functional cycle
Authors: Mas Guillaume , Guan Jia-Ying , Crublet Elodie , Debled Elisa Colas , Moriscot Christine , Gans Pierre , Schoehn Guy , Macek Pavel , Schanda Paul , Boisbouvier Jerome
Published: September 2018

Site-selective isotope labeling enables structural and functional investigation of a working 1-MDa chaperonin by NMR spectroscopy.
Linear and rotational microhydraulic actuators driven by electrowetting
Authors: Kedzierski Jakub , Holihan Eric
Published: September 2018

Electrowetting microhydraulic actuators demonstrated high power density and efficiency and improved when scaled to smaller dimensions.
A Large, Refractory Nosocomial Outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase-Producing Escherichia coli Demonstrates Carbapenemase Gene Outbreaks Involving Sink Sites Require Novel Approaches to Infection Control
Authors: Decraene V. , Phan H. T. T. , George R. , Wyllie D. H. , Akinremi O. , Aiken Z. , Cleary P. , Dodgson A. , Pankhurst L. , Crook D. W. , Lenney C. , Walker A. S. , Woodford N. , Sebra R. , Fath-Ordoubadi F. , Mathers A. J. , Seale A. C. , Guiver M. , McEwan A. , Watts V. , Welfare W. , Stoesser N. , Cawthorne J. ,   the TRACE Investigators’ Group Zoie Aiken Oluwafemi Akinremi Julie Cawthorne Paul Cleary Derrick W. Crook Valerie Decraene Andrew Dodgson Michel Doumith Matthew Ellington David W. Eyre Ryan George Malcolm Guiver Robert Hill Katie Hopkins Rachel Jones Cheryl Lenney Amy J. Mathers Ashley McEwan Ginny Moore Sarah Neilson Tim E. A. Peto Hang T. T. Phan Mark Regan Anna C. Seale Nicole Stoesser Jay Turner-Gardner Vicky Watts Jimmy Walker A. Sarah Walker David H. Wyllie William Welfare Neil Woodford
Published: September 2018

Carbapenem-resistant
Enterobacteriaceae
(CRE) represent a health threat, but effective control interventions remain unclear. Hospital wastewater sites are increasingly being highlighted as important potential reservoirs.
Characterization of Antibody Interactions with the G Protein of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Indiana Strain and Other Vesiculovirus G Proteins
Authors: Munis Altar M. , Tijani Maha , Hassall Mark , Mattiuzzo Giada , Collins Mary K. , Takeuchi Yasuhiro
Published: September 2018

VSVind.G is currently regarded as the gold-standard envelope glycoprotein to pseudotype lentiviral vectors. However, recently other G proteins derived from vesiculoviruses have been proposed as alternative envelopes. Here, we investigated two commercially available anti-VSVind.G monoclonal antibodies for their ability to cross-react with other vesiculovirus G proteins, identified the epitopes they recognize, and explored their neutralization activity. We have identified 8G5F11, for the first time, as a cross-neutralizing antibody against several vesiculovirus G proteins. Furthermore, we elucidated the two different neutralization mechanisms employed by these two monoclonal antibodies. Understanding how cross-neutralizing antibodies interact with other G proteins may be of interest in the context of host-pathogen interaction and coevolution, as well as providing the opportunity to modify the G proteins and improve G protein-containing medicinal products and vaccine vectors.
Molecular Characterization of the Viroporin Function of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Nonstructural Protein 2B
Authors: Gladue D. P. , Largo E. , de la Arada I. , Aguilella V. M. , Alcaraz A. , Arrondo J. L. R. , Holinka L. G. , Brocchi E. , Ramirez-Medina E. , Vuono E. A. , Berggren K. A. , Carrillo C. , Nieva J. L. , Borca M. V.
Published: September 2018

FMDV nonstructural protein 2B is able to insert itself into cellular membranes to form a pore. This pore allows the passage of ions and small molecules through the membrane. In this study, we were able to show that both current and small molecules are able to pass though the pore made by 2B. We also discovered for the first time a virus with a pore-forming protein that contains two independent functional pores. By making mutations in our infectious clone of FMDV, we determined that mutations in either pore resulted in nonviable virus. This suggests that both pore-forming functions are independently required during FMDV infection.
Complete Genome Sequence of Psittacine Adenovirus 1, Identified from Poicephalus senegalus in Italy
Authors: Milani Adelaide , Zamperin Gianpiero , Fusaro Alice , Salviato Annalisa , Bano Luca , Zandonà Luca , Brunetta Romina , Monne Isabella
Published: September 2018

Using a metagenomics approach, we were able to determine for the first time the full-genome sequence of a psittacine adenovirus 1 isolate that was recovered from the liver of a dead Senegal parrot (
Poicephalus senegalus
) in Italy. The results of the phylogenetic investigations revealed the existence of high genetic diversity among adenoviruses circulating in psittacine birds.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Shrimp Pathogen Vibrio parahaemolyticus ST17.P5-S1, Isolated in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Devadas Sridevi , Bhassu Subha , Christie Soo Tze Chiew , Yusoff Fatimah M. , Shariff Mohamed
Published: September 2018

We sequenced the genome of
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
strain ST17.P5-S1, isolated from
Penaeus vannamei
cultured in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The strain contains several antibiotic resistance genes and a plasmid encoding the
Photorhabdus
insect-related (Pir) toxin-like genes,
pirAvp
and
pirBvp
, associated with acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND).
Rare cause of ovarian mass
Authors: Shunmugam Deepa , Shanmugasundaram Sundaram , Gandhi Anitha
Published: September 2018

Pelvic actinomycosis is a rare entity that occurs almost exclusively in women, the presentation of which is usually non-specific and variable. Pelvic actinomycosis is almost always associated with the use of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD). Pelvic actinomycosis unrelated to IUD use is almost always associated with previous surgical procedures. The symptoms, clinical signs and radiological findings are usually non-specific, mimicking an ovarian malignancy. So an awareness of this rare condition and a proper diagnosis can avoid unnecessary surgeries because these cases can be treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics. We present a case of pelvic actinomycosis which masqueraded as an ovarian malignancy.