bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GSK‐3β inhibitor TDZD‐8 reduces neonatal hypoxic‐ischemic brain injury in mice
Authors: Huang Sammen , Wang Haitao , Turlova Ekaterina , Abussaud Ahmed , Ji Xiang , Britto Luiz R. , Miller Steven P. , Martinez Ana , Sun Hong‐Shuo , Feng Zhong‐Ping
Published: March 2017

Aims

Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK‐3β) is activated following hypoxic‐ischemic (HI) brain injury. TDZD‐8 is a specific GSK‐3β inhibitor. Currently, the impact of inhibiting GSK‐3β in neonatal HI injury is unknown. We aimed to investigate the effect of TDZD‐8 following neonatal HI brain injury.

Methods

Unilateral common carotid artery ligation followed by hypoxia was used to induce HI injury in postnatal day 7 mouse pups pretreated with TDZD‐8 or vehicle. The infarct volume, whole‐brain imaging, Nissl staining, and behavioral tests were used to evaluate the protective effect of TDZD‐8 on the neonatal brain and assess functional recovery after injury. Western blot was used to evaluate protein levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt), GSK‐3β, and cleaved caspase‐3. Protein levels of cleaved caspase‐3, neuronal marker, and glial fibrillary acidic protein were detected through immunohistochemistry.

Results

Pretreatment with TDZD‐8 significantly reduced brain damage and improved neurobehavioral outcomes following HI injury. TDZD‐8 reversed the reduction of phosphorylated Akt and GSK‐3β, and the activation of caspase‐3 induced by hypoxia‐ischemia. In addition, TDZD‐8 suppressed apoptotic cell death and reduced reactive astrogliosis.

Conclusion

TDZD‐8 has the therapeutic potential for hypoxic‐ischemic brain injury in neonates. The neuroprotective effect of TDZD‐8 appears to be mediated through its antiapoptotic activity and by reducing astrogliosis.
Coming Together to Address Systemic Racism in Museums
Authors: Fischer Daryl , Anila Swarupa , Moore Porchia
Published: March 2017

A group of 25 multi‐generational, multi‐racial museum professionals met in January 2016 for a 3‐day dialogue about museums and race. They concurred that forming alliances among museum practitioners of all races and ethnic backgrounds is a critical step in dismantling the persistent and pervasive presence of structural racism in museums. This article asserts that there are both demographic and ethical imperatives for close examination of all aspects of museums’ programs, their staffs and boards, the publics they serve, and the organizations that exist because of them. It provides an introduction to the vocabulary and attendant systems of white privilege, oppression, and intersectionality, offers concrete suggestions for people of all backgrounds to join forces, and ends with a call to action to bring racial awareness and action to the forefront in our institutions, our communities, and our nation.
The effect of an education programme (MEDIAS 2 BSC) of non‐intensive insulin treatment regimens for people with Type 2 diabetes: a randomized, multi‐centre trial
Authors: Hermanns N. , Ehrmann D. , Schall S. , Maier B. , Haak T. , Kulzer B.
Published: March 2017

Aims

A self‐management oriented education programme (MEDIAS 2 BSC) for people with Type 2 diabetes who are on a non‐intensive insulin treatment regimen was developed. In a randomized, multi‐centre trial, the effect of MEDIAS 2 BSC was compared with an established education programme that acted as a control group.

Methods

The primary outcome was the impact of MEDIAS 2 BSC on glycaemic control. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia, hypoglycaemia unawareness, diabetes‐related distress, diabetes knowledge, quality of life and self‐care behaviour.

Results

In total, 182 participants were randomized to the control group or MEDIAS 2 BSC [median age 64.0 (interquartile range 58.0–68.5) vs. 63.5 (57.0–70.0) years; HbA1c 62.8 ± 12.7 mmol/mol vs. 63.7 ± 14.0 mmol/mol; 7.9% ± 1.2% vs. 8.0% ± 1.3%]. After a 6‐month follow‐up, there was a mean decrease in HbA1c of 3.5 mmol/mol (0.32%) in the control group and 6.7 mmol/mol (0.61%) in MEDIAS 2 BSC. After adjusting for baseline differences and study centre, the mean difference between the groups was −3.3 mmol/mol [95% confidence interval (CI) −0.54 to −5.90 mmol/mol] [−0.30% (95% CI −0.05 to −0.54)] in favour of MEDIAS 2 BSC (P = 0.018). There were no increases in severe hypoglycaemia or hypoglycaemia unawareness. The education programmes had no significant effects on psychosocial outcome variables.

Conclusion

MEDIAS 2 BSC was more effective in lowering HbA1c than the control condition. MEDIAS 2 BSC is a safe educational tool that improves glycaemic control without increasing the risk for hypoglycaemia. (Clinical Trials Registry No; NCT 02748239)
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AND DYNAMICS OF WORK‐ETHIC PREFERENCES
Authors: Sultana Rezina
Published: March 2017

This study examines the cultural‐transmission effects of compensatory‐discrimination affirmative action policies on work‐ethic preference dynamics for a population in a caste‐based segregated economy in which some high‐paid jobs are reserved for historically disadvantaged lower‐caste individuals. Cultural attitudes toward preferences for work‐loving and leisure‐loving traits evolve endogenously. The compensatory‐discrimination policies affect differently the preference dynamics for insiders (entitled to employment quota) and outsiders (not entitled to employment quota). Efficient and inefficient equilibria are possible, with larger or smaller proportions of individuals with a work ethic among the insider and outsider populations. The model shows that the commonly conceived conclusion that a job reservation policy benefits a disadvantaged group at the cost of efficiency and economic growth is not a necessary outcome. (JEL A12, C62, J71)
Configurations of the Re‐scan Confocal Microscope (RCM) for biomedical applications
Authors: DE LUCA G.M.R. , DESCLOS E. , BREEDIJK R.M.P. , DOLZ‐EDO L. , SMITS G.J. , NAHIDIAZAR L. , BIELEFELD P. , PICAVET L. , FITZSIMONS C.P. , HOEBE R. , MANDERS E.M.M.
Published: March 2017

The new high‐sensitive and high‐resolution technique, Re‐scan Confocal Microscopy (RCM), is based on a standard confocal microscope extended with a re‐scan detection unit. The re‐scan unit includes a pair of re‐scanning mirrors that project the emission light onto a camera in a scanning manner. The signal‐to‐noise ratio of Re‐scan Confocal Microscopy is improved by a factor of 4 compared to standard confocal microscopy and the lateral resolution of Re‐scan Confocal Microscopy is 170 nm (compared to 240 nm for diffraction limited resolution, 488 nm excitation, 1.49 NA). Apart from improved sensitivity and resolution, the optical setup of Re‐scan Confocal Microscopy is flexible in its configuration in terms of control of the mirrors, lasers and filters. Because of this flexibility, the Re‐scan Confocal Microscopy can be configured to address specific biological applications. In this paper, we explore a number of possible configurations of Re‐scan Confocal Microscopy for specific biomedical applications such as multicolour, FRET, ratio‐metric (e.g. pH and intracellular Ca2+ measurements) and FRAP imaging.
Left atrial anatomy and patient‐related factors associated with adverse outcomes with the watchman device—a real world experience
Authors: Murarka Shishir , Lazkani Mohamad , Moualla Soundos , Verma Divya Ratan , Pershad Ashish
Published: March 2017

Objective

This study sought to identify patient and left atrial morphology specific factors associated with early complications for left atrial appendage occlusion with the Watchman™ (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA) device.

Background

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is recommended for patients with atrial fibrillation, however, long‐term OAC compliance is poor. In randomized control trials, the Watchman™ device has demonstrated superiority over OAC with warfarin for all cause and cardiovascular mortality and hemorrhagic stroke. However, predictors of procedural complications have not yet been well established.

Methods

There were 137 patients included in this study from a total of 141 consecutive patients prospectively enrolled in the registry between 8/1/2015 and 08/31/2016. Unadjusted, multivariate cox proportional hazards model was used for analysis. Primary end‐point was a composite major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular event (MACCE) defined to include death, stroke, major and life threatening bleeding, major vascular complications, device embolization, need for cardiovascular surgery, need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and significant pericardial effusion.

Results

The primary endpoint was reached in 5.8% of patients. There were no device embolization and no strokes. Anterior chicken morphology (ACW) of the left atrial appendage (LAA) conferred a hazard ratio of 3.7 for MACCE and a body mass index >30 kg/m2 significantly lowered the likelihood of a MACCE.

Conclusion

Certain LAA morphologies and patient characteristics increase the risk for a MACCE following left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) with the Watchman™ device. Anterior chicken wing morphology of the LAA and low BMI <30 kg/m2 were independent predictors of MACCE in the multivariate regression model.
Application of the check‐all‐that‐apply method (CATA) to get insights on children's drivers of liking of fiber‐enriched apple purees
Authors: Laureati Monica , Cattaneo Camilla , Lavelli Vera , Bergamaschi Valentina , Riso Patrizia , Pagliarini Ella
Published: March 2017

Developing food products for children requires their involvement since their needs differ from those of adults. Descriptive methods are helpful in defining product's sensory properties that drive consumer's liking but they are not recommended with children. Consequently, finding new approaches to develop food tailored for children is one of the biggest challenges for food companies and sensory and consumer research scientists. This study has a twofold aim: (a) to test the suitability of check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) questions to obtain a sensory description of fiber‐enriched apple purees by children; (b) to investigate the drivers of liking of these products. Sixty‐two children (8–11 years) evaluated the overall liking of six apple purees varying in appearance and texture and answered a series of CATA questions. Results showed that children were able to generate appropriate descriptive terms and to discriminate the samples according to the a priori modified sensory modalities using the CATA method. Sweet taste and a uniform texture (sandy, doughy, and floury attributes) were positive predictors of apple purees children liking, whereas sour taste, granular and crunchy texture were negative predictors.

Practical applications

The check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) method is an appropriate, child‐friendly approach to get insights on how young consumers perceive a food product and identify the most relevant sensory attributes that affect children's hedonic perception. The use of CATA technique could be useful for food products research and development to understand children's drivers of liking and to obtain effective input for products optimization that meet children's sensory expectation, assuring product's success with this specific target of consumers.
Platelet factor 4 upregulates matrix metalloproteinase‐1 production in gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Javaid M. , Bi J. , Biddle C. , Tsai C. M. , Häkkinen L. , Kim H.
Published: March 2017

Background and Objective

Periodontitis is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease that causes tooth loss, morbidity and confers an increased risk for systemic disease. Tissue destruction during periodontitis is due in large part to collagen‐degrading matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) released by resident cells of the periodontium in response to proinflammatory cytokines. Platelets are immune‐competent blood cells with a newly recognized role in chronic inflammation; however, their role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis is undefined. Consequently, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of platelet factor 4 (PF4), a major platelet‐derived cytokine, on MMP‐1 (collagenase) expression in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs).

Material and Methods

HGFs were cultured in the presence or absence of recombinant PF4. Pro‐MMP‐1 secretion was quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analysis of the cell culture supernatants. MMP‐1 transcription was quantified by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Regulation of MMP‐1 production by the p44/42 MAP kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway was examined in the presence or absence of PF4.

Results

Exposure to PF4 caused a ~ 2–3‐fold increase in MMP‐1 transcription and secretion from cultured HGFs. PF4 treatment also enhanced phosphorylation of p44/42 MAPK, which has been previously shown to induce MMP‐1 expression in fibroblasts. Blockade of p44/42 MAPK signaling with the cell‐permeant inhibitors PD98059 and PD184352 abrogated PF4‐induced pro‐MMP‐1 transcription upregulation and release from cultured HGFs.

Conclusion

We conclude that PF4 upregulates MMP‐1 expression in HGFs in a p44/42 MAPK‐dependent manner. These findings point to a previously unidentified role for platelets in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases.
A novel broth medium for enhanced growth of Francisella tularensis
Authors: Morris B.J. , Buse H.Y. , Adcock N.J. , Rice E.W.
Published: March 2017

Francisella tularensis is a fastidious organism that requires a lengthy incubation time in liquid growth media for detection. The objective of this study was to develop a medium formulation using readily available supplements that enhanced early growth of F. tularensis. Francisella tularensis live vaccine strain was used to evaluate the growth responses for each of the media formulations tested. Growth in brain heart infusion broth supplemented with 2% Vitox, 10% Fildes and 1% histidine (BVFH) resulted in a significant increase in growth after 8 h incubation compared to other media formulations tested (P < 0·001). Virulent strains of F. tularensis grown in BVFH medium demonstrated similar enhanced early growth. Cell densities of 3·9–5·2 log10 CFU per ml were obtained after 24 h of growth in BVFH from a 1–2 cell ml−1 starting inoculum of the virulent Type A Schu4 strain, indicating the suitability of this medium in rapidly amplifying low starting titres of F. tularensis. Collectively, these results indicate that the novel formulation of the BVFH medium was capable of producing enhanced growth response for F. tularensis.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The need for rapid cultivation of Francisella tularensis is essential for detection and monitoring during natural outbreak events or intentional bioterrorism attacks. The addition of selected supplements into the base medium BHI (BVFH) developed in this study enhanced growth of F. tularensis Type A1, A2 and B strains compared to BHI alone. Growth of these organisms in BVFH will allow for improved response time should a natural or intentional contamination event occur.
The Passions of Christ in the Moral Theology of Thomas Aquinas: An Integrative Account
Authors: Clem Stewart
Published: March 2017

In recent scholarship, moral theologians and readers of Thomas Aquinas have shown increasing sensitivity to the role of the passions in the moral life. Yet these accounts have paid inadequate attention to Thomas's writings on Christ's passions as a source of moral reflection. As I argue in this essay, Thomas's writings on Christ's human affectivity should not be limited to the concerns of Christology; rather, they should be integrated into a fuller account of the human passions. One upshot of this approach for Thomists is that it sharpens our vocabulary when describing human nature and the conditions for the moral life. By considering the rubrics of creation, fall, and redemption – as Thomas does – we find that our resources for analyzing the passions are greatly enriched.
Extensive yellow crusts below limestone overhangs: a new taxon close to a minute epiphytic lichen
Authors: Vondrák Jan , Moniri Mahroo Haji , Malíček Jiří , Košnar Jiří
Published: March 2017

A conspicuous yellow crust forming extensive covers on some dry and shaded limestone rocks in Europe is described here as Caloplaca substerilis subsp. orbicularis M. Haji Moniri, Vondrák & Malíček subsp. nov. Based on nuITS rDNA, 28S nuLSU rDNA and mtSSU rDNA sequence data, the new taxon is closely related to Caloplaca substerilis and C. ulcerosa. The three taxa form a supported clade in the subfamily Xanthorioideae (Teloschistaceae), but none of the recently seggregated genera are suitable for them. In the ITS phylogeny, the new taxon forms a monophylum nested within C. substerilis. However, its extensive yellow thalli and absence of vegetative diaspores clearly distinguish it from Caloplaca substerilis (subsp. substerilis). Indeed, if it had not been for the molecular evidence, we would have described it at the rank of species. We suggest that the substrate switch and accompanying processes are responsible for the striking phenotypic difference between Caloplaca substerilis subsp. substerilis and C. substerilis subsp. orbicularis.
Pothos vietnamensis sp. nov. (Araceae–Pothoideae–Potheae) from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Van Du , Nguyen Van Dinh , Boyce Peter C.
Published: March 2017

Pothos vietnamensis V. D. Nguyen & P. C. Boyce is described and illustrated from northern Vietnam as a new species of the Pothos supergroup, and it is compared with the two most similar species: P. kerrii and P. pilulifer to which P. vietnamensis is comparable by having a very small fertile portion (< 5 mm diameter) on the spadix. Ecology, habitat, population size and conservation status are also discussed.
Localization of the 5‐hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor in equine enteric neurons and extrinsic sensory fibers
Authors: Giancola F. , Rambaldi A. M. , Bianco F. , Iusco S. , Romagnoli N. , Tagliavia C. , Bombardi C. , Clavenzani P. , De Giorgio R. , Chiocchetti R.
Published: March 2017

Background

Serotonin plays a pivotal role in regulating gut motility, visceral sensitivity, and fluid secretion via specific receptors. Among these receptors, 5‐HT4exerts a prominent control on gut motor function. Although the prokinetic effect exerted by 5‐HT4agonists is well known, the cellular sites of 5‐HT4expression remain poorly understood in large mammals, e.g., horses. In this study, we evaluated the distribution of 5‐HT4in the horse intestine and in foals with enteric aganglionosis, reminiscent of human Hirschsprung's disease.

Methods

The intestine and spinal ganglia were obtained from three healthy horses and two foals with hereditary ileocolonic aganglionosis. Tissues were processed for immunohistochemistry using a specific antibody to 5‐HT4and a variety of neuronal markers. Myenteric and submucosal plexus 5‐HT4‐immunoreactive (IR) neurons were quantified as relative percentage (mean±SD) to the total number of neurons counted. Furthermore, the density of 5‐HT4‐IRnerve fibers was evaluated in the mucosa andtunica muscularis.

Key Results

The 5‐HT4immunoreactivity was localized to large percentages of myenteric neurons ranging from 28±9% (descending colon) to 63±19% (ileum), and submucosal neurons ranging from 54±6% (ileum) to 68±14% (duodenum). The 5‐HT4‐immunoreactivity was co‐expressed by some substance P‐IR(SP‐IR) spinal ganglion neurons and extrinsic sensory fibers of aganglionic foals.

Conclusions & Inferences

The presence of 5‐HT4in many enteric and extrinsic sensory neurons and nerve fibers provides solid morphological evidence of the cellular sites of 5‐HT4expression in horses. The evidence ofSP‐IRsensory neurons positive for 5‐HT4suggests its role in visceral sensitivity.
„Hölle der Narrenfreiheit“
Authors: Nowotny Joanna , Reidy Julian
Published: March 2017

Dieser Aufsatz befasst sich mit der Altersdarstellung in zwei beispielhaften Generationenromanen der deutschsprachigen Gegenwartsliteratur, Clemens Setz’ Die Frequenzen (2009) und Tilman Rammstedts Der Kaiser von China (2008). Drei Aspekte stehen im Zentrum der Analyse: Erstens ist in Einklang mit der soziologischen Forschung zu beobachten, dass Alter in der Gegenwartsliteratur nicht als bloße biologische Tatsache, sondern als soziale Leistung begriffen wird. Je nachdem, ob und wie gut diese Leistung erbracht wird, entwirft die Gegenwartsliteratur Bilder eines „guten“ und „schlechten“ Alter(n)s. Um die Problemstellung adäquat zu erfassen, werden zweitens spezifische diskurs‐ und wissensgeschichtliche Kontexte fruchtbar gemacht, denn Alter wird etwa in Abhängigkeit von Gender unterschiedlich funktionalisiert. Der Fokus unserer Untersuchung liegt auf „männlichen“ Alterungsprozessen, deren Prekarität in der Forschung zu aktuellen Generationenromanen noch kaum registriert wurde. Drittens zeigt die vorliegende Arbeit, dass das Alter mit gattungsspezifischen Schreibverfahren des Generationenromans der Gegenwartsliteratur assoziiert ist, insbesondere mit der „therapeutischen“ Narrativierung der Familiengeschichte.
“A scrapbook of you + me”
Authors: Tanderup Sara
Published: March 2017

This article reads J. J. Abrams and Doug Dorst's S. (2013) as a reflection of the changing status and function of the printed novel in the digital age. As an experimental novel with yellowing pages and handwriting in the margins, S. appears to reflect a “material turn” in literature. It celebrates the book as a space of intimacy and memory, positioned in opposition to new digital media. However, the article argues that S. is also fundamentally and paradoxically grounded in digital culture. Drawing on the work of, for example, N. Katherine Hayles, Bill Brown, and Henry Jenkins, I point to a tension in S. It does at once (1) nostalgically celebrate the “aesthetics of bookishness” and (2) embrace a modern media culture where literature takes place beyond the book and between media.
Dexmedetomidine sedation combined with caudal anesthesia for lower abdominal and extremity surgery in ex‐preterm and full‐term infants
Authors: Waurick Katrin , Sauerland Cristina , Goeters Christiane
Published: March 2017

Background

Awake caudal anesthesia is a potentially attractive option, because the administration of general anesthesia is associated with a high rate of respiratory complications and hemodynamic disturbances and potential neurotoxic effects. To facilitate the caudal puncture and subsequent surgical intervention, additional sedatives are commonly administered.

Aim

We aimed to establish a new, safe, and effective anesthetic procedure for very young children with comorbidities.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 23 children who underwent lower abdominal or lower extremity surgery with dexmedetomidine sedation and caudal anesthesia from January 2015 to August 2015. Dexmedetomidine was initiated with a total bolus infusion of 0.7–1.1 μg·kg−1 followed by a continuous infusion of 1 μg·kg−1·h−1. Bupivacaine (2.5 mg·kg−1) was supplemented with 5–10 μg·kg−1 epinephrine to strengthen and prolong motor block. According to maturity at birth, two groups were defined: ex‐preterm and full‐term infants.

Results

There were 12 ex‐preterm and 10 full‐term infants available for analysis. The median postmenstrual age was 44 (38–52) weeks in ex‐preterm and 46.5 (40–72) weeks in full‐term infants. Without any additional intervention, surgery was successfully accomplished in 82% of all cases. While respiratory complications were not a problem, hemodynamic disturbances commonly occurred. Maximum decreases in heart rate (HR) of 30% were accompanied by maximum decreases in mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 38%. No infant had a heart rate below 100 bpm. MAP declined in one ex‐preterm infant to a minimum value of 32 mmHg.

Conclusion

Caudal anesthesia combined with dexmedetomidine sedation is an effective anesthetic technique for lower abdominal and extremity surgery in ex‐preterm and full‐term infants with severe comorbidities.
Reconceptualizing European Union regulatory networks: A response to Blauberger and Rittberger
Authors: Tarrant Andrew , Kelemen R. Daniel
Published: March 2017

This article responds to Michael Blauberger and Berthold Rittberger's article “Conceptualizing and theorizing EU regulatory networks,” published in Regulation & Governance in 2015. Blauberger and Rittberger challenged our previous work on the politics of Eurocracy, disputing our argument that political considerations, not functional ones, explain the choice of bureaucratic structure in the European Union (EU). Blauberger and Rittberger suggest that functional considerations do indeed explain why policymakers sometimes prefer governance through European Regulatory Networks rather than through more centralized EU agencies, and argue that we have misunderstood the preferences of EU legislative principals. In this article, we argue that there are significant flaws in Blauberger and Rittberger's analysis on both theoretical and empirical grounds. We show that a proper interpretation of developments in both telecoms and competition lends support to our theoretical claims and not those offered by Blauberger and Rittberger.
The Effects of Homeownership on Civic Participation among Immigrant Farmworkers in Washington State
Authors: Mireles Gilbert F.
Published: March 2017

Homeownership is generally considered to have positive benefits for families and communities. However, the collapse of the housing market in 2009 led to questions about this assumption, especially for low‐skilled workers whose employment is volatile. This question is particularly relevant to the farmworker population in rural communities for whom homeownership might function as the first step in the path toward social integration. In this study I ask whether homeownership impacts immigrant adaptation among farmworkers in Washington State. To answer this question researchers analyzed 2,845 responses from the Washington State Farm Worker Survey. I divided the sample into renters and homeowners and evaluated behaviors and attitudes along three dimensions: perceptions of community efficacy, civic engagement, and motivations for civic engagement. I found that when compared with those who rent, farmworkers who are homeowners tend to have a greater sense of community efficacy, are more engaged in their communities, and are more motivated to get involved in local affairs. These findings suggest that homeownership can function as a vehicle for immigrant adaptation among Washington State farmworkers. This bodes well for the future of the state's rural areas, where Latinos are increasingly becoming the majority in many agricultural communities.
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Singh S. , Verma S. K. , Kumar S. , Ahmad M. K. , Nischal A. , Singh S. K. , Dixit R. K.
Published: March 2017

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common respiratory condition involving the airways and characterized by airflow limitation. Gaseous and noxious particles play an important role in this process. Antioxidants are the substances that may protect cells from the damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. The increased oxidative stress in patients with COPD is the result of an increased burden of inhaled oxidants, as well as increased amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by various inflammatory, immune and epithelial cells of the airways. A total of 150 subjects with COPD and 100 healthy controls subjects were enrolled in this study from the period October 2015 to January 2016. The investigation included measurements of plasma superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), glutathione content (GSH) reduced form, (GPx) glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase (GR) and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Absorbance was measured by UV spectrophotometer. The estimated values of SOD, catalase, GPx, GSH and GR were found to be significantly (P = 0.0001) lower among the cases compared with controls. But, the levels of MDA were higher (P = 0.0001) in cases as compared to control group and there was significant difference in the oxidative stress parameters among the various stages of COPD. The post hoc analysis revealed that SOD was significantly (P < 0.01) lower among the mild, moderate and severe patients compared with very severe patients. The catalase was also observed to be significantly (P = 0.01) lower among mild, moderate and severe patients than very severe patients. The GPx was found to be significantly (P = 0.002) lower among the mild, moderate and severe patients compared with very severe patients. MDA was observed to be significantly higher in mild, moderate and severe patients compared with very severe (P = 0.001). GR was significantly (P = 0.003) lower among mild, moderate and severe patients than very severe patients. However, there was no significant difference in GSH among severity of COPD patients. This study suggests that oxidant and antioxidant imbalance plays an important role in various stages of severity of COPD. These results revealed the presence of an oxidative stress in subjects with COPD, and it is proportionate to the severity of disease.
Males without apparent alloimmunization could have HLA antibodies that recognize target HLA specificities expressed on cells
Authors: Nakamura J. , Nakajima F. , Kamada H. , Tadokoro K. , Nagai T. , Satake M.
Published: March 2017

Background and objectives

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies, which are involved in the development of transfusion‐related side effects such as transfusion‐related lung injury, are sometimes found in males without a history of alloimmunization (eg, transplantation and transfusion). Whether HLA antibodies in male donors can interact with their target HLA specificities expressed on cells have not been completely investigated.

Materials and methods

The HLA antibodies detected in 7 male donors were characterized. Flow cytometry and immunocomplex capture fluorescence analysis were performed to evaluate the ability of these antibodies to bind with target HLA specificities expressed on cells. The association of these antibodies with complement was examined using anti‐C1q antibody. Sustainability of HLA antibodies over time was compared in 26 male vs 57 female donors.

Results

The antibodies from all 7 donors recognized intact HLA molecules coated onto microbeads. The antibodies in 2 of 7 donors also recognized their target HLA specificities expressed on cells. Furthermore, the antibodies in one of these 2 donors showed HLA specificities that involved complement binding. Twenty‐one of 26 initially positive male donors had turned negative for HLA antibody at least 1 year after their initial positive screening, whereas HLA antibody positivity was maintained for a long time in most female donors.

Conclusion

Males without apparent alloimmunization could have HLA antibodies that recognize their target HLA specificities on cells and that could potentially modify molecular events in affected cells.
Comprehensive Experimental and Computational Analysis of a Fully Contained Hybrid Server Cabinet
Authors: Nemati Kourosh , Alissa Husam A. , Murray Bruce T. , Sammakia Bahgat G. , Tipton Russell , Seymour Mark J.
Published: March 2017

The rapid growth in the number of data centers combined with the high-density heat dissipation of computer and telecommunications equipment has made energy efficient thermal management of data centers a key research area. Localized hybrid air–water cooling is one approach to more effectively control the cooling when there is wide variation in the amount of dissipation in neighboring racks while the traditional air cooling approach requires overprovisioning. In a closed, hybrid air–water cooled server cabinet, the generated heat is removed by a self-contained system that does not interact with the room level air cooling system. Here, a hybrid-cooled enclosed cabinet and all its internal components were characterized experimentally in steady-state mode (e.g., experimentally determined heat-exchanger effectiveness and IT characterization). Also, a comprehensive numerical model of the cabinet was developed and validated using the experimental data. The computational model employs full numerical modeling of the cabinet geometry and compact models to represent the servers and the air/water heat exchanger. The compact models were developed based on experimental flow and thermal characterization of the internal components. The cabinet level model has been used to simulate a number of operating scenarios relevant to data center applications such as the effect of air leakage within the cabinet. The effect of the air side and the water side failure of the cooling system on the IT performance were investigated experimentally. A comparison was made of the amount of time required to exceed the operating temperature limit for the two scenarios.
An Improved Rate of Heat Release Model for Modern High-Speed Diesel Engines
Authors: Dowell Peter G. , Akehurst Sam , Burke Richard D.
Published: March 2017

To meet the increasingly stringent emissions standards, diesel engines need to include more active technologies with their associated control systems. Hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) approaches are becoming popular where the engine system is represented as a real-time capable model to allow development of the controller hardware and software without the need for the real engine system. This paper focusses on the engine model required in such approaches. A number of semi-physical, zero-dimensional combustion modeling techniques are enhanced and combined into a complete model, these include—ignition delay, premixed and diffusion combustion and wall impingement. In addition, a fuel injection model was used to provide fuel injection rate from solenoid energizing signals. The model was parameterized using a small set of experimental data from an engine dynamometer test facility and validated against a complete data set covering the full engine speed and torque range. The model was shown to characterize the rate of heat release (RoHR) well over the engine speed and load range. Critically, the wall impingement model improved R2 value for maximum RoHR from 0.89 to 0.96. This was reflected in the model's ability to match both pilot and main combustion phasing, and peak heat release rates derived from measured data. The model predicted indicated mean effective pressure and maximum pressure with R2 values of 0.99 across the engine map. The worst prediction was for the angle of maximum pressure which had an R2 of 0.74. The results demonstrate the predictive ability of the model, with only a small set of empirical data for training—this is a key advantage over conventional methods. The fuel injection model yielded good results for predicted injection quantity (R2 = 0.99) and enabled the use of the RoHR model without the need for measured rate of injection.
Reduced-Order Models of Blisks With Small Geometric Mistuning
Authors: Baek Seunghun , Epureanu Bogdan
Published: March 2017

A technique for generating reduced-order models (ROMs) of bladed disks with small geometric mistuning is proposed. Discrepancies in structural properties (mistuning) from blade to blade can cause a significant increase in the maximum vibratory stress. The effects of mistuning have been studied over the past few decades. Many researchers have studied the dynamic behavior of mistuned bladed disks by using ROMs. Many of these techniques rely on the fact that the modes of a mistuned system can be approximated by a linear combination of modes of the corresponding tuned system. In addition, the tuned system modes have been modeled in component mode mistuning by using modal participation factors of cantilevered blade modes. Such techniques assume that mistuning can be well modeled as variations in blade-alone frequencies. However, since geometric deformations contain stiffness and mass variations, mistuning can no longer be captured by cantilevered blade modes alone. To address this, several studies have focused on large and small geometric mistuning. These studies exploited the difference between tuned (with perturbed geometry) and nominal tuned mode shapes. In this work, we extend on that approach and devote particular attention to the development of ROMs of bladed disks with small geometric mistuning. The methodology requires only sector-level calculations and therefore can be applied to highly refined, realistic models of industrial size.
The role of echocardiography in fetal tachyarrhythmia diagnosis. A burden for the pediatric cardiologist and a review of the literature.
Authors: Gozar Liliana , Marginean Claudiu , Toganel Rodica , Muntean Iolanda
Published: March 2017

Supraventricular tachyarrhythmia represents the most frequent fetal dysrhythmia. In the lack of diagnosis and treatment these fetuses may develop hydrops and even death. For the therapeutic approach it is important to establish the diagnosis of the type of supraventricular tachycardia. In this paper we report 29 cases with different types of supraventricular tachycardia in which the diagnosis was established using our own protocol, which allowed us to make the difference between the types of tachycardia (atrioventricular reentry tachycardia due to the accessory pathway, atrial ectopic tachycardia and permanent junctional reciprocal tachycardia). We acquired the data by a series of recordings in M mode and pulsed Doppler by simultaneous recording of an artery and a vein flow. First of all, we diagnosed the supraventricular tachycardia type, with short or long ventriculoarterial interval, and afterwards, we made the difference between atrial ectopic tachycardia and permanent junctional reciprocal tachycardia using methods to decrease the atrioventricular conduction.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Chikungunya Viruses Isolated in the Central African Republic in the 1970s and 1980s
Authors: Tricou Vianney , Desdouits Marion , Nakouné Emmanuel , Gessain Antoine , Kazanji Mirdad , Berthet Nicolas
Published: March 2017

Some arboviruses threaten human global health with potentially explosive emergence. Analysis of whole-genome sequences of decades-old isolates might contribute to the understanding of the complex dynamics which drive their circulation and emergence. Here, we report the whole-genome sequences of two Chikungunya viruses isolated in the Central African Republic in the 1970s and 1980s.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Immunobiotic Strain Lactobacillus jensenii TL2937
Authors: Villena Julio , Masumizu Yuki , Iida Hikaru , Ikeda-Ohtsubo Wakako , Albarracin Leonardo , Makino Seiya , Ohkawara Sou , Kimura Katsunori , Saavedra Lucila , Hebert Elvira Maria , Kitazawa Haruki
Published: March 2017

The genome of the immunomodulatory strain
Lactobacillus jensenii
TL2937 is described here. The draft genome has a total length of 1,678,416 bp, a G+C content of 34.3%, and 1,470 predicted protein-coding sequences. The genome information will be useful for gaining insight into the immunomodulatory properties of the TL2937 strain in the porcine host.
Draft Genome Sequence of Desulfuromonas acetexigens Strain 2873, a Novel Anode-Respiring Bacterium
Authors: Katuri Krishna P. , Albertsen Mads , Saikaly Pascal E.
Published: March 2017

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Desulfuromonas acetexigens
strain 2873, which was originally isolated from digester sludge from a sewage treatment plant in Germany. This bacterium is capable of anode respiration with high electrochemical activity in microbial electrochemical systems. The draft genome contains 3,376 predicted protein-coding genes and putative multiheme c-type cytochromes.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Plant Growth–Promoting Rhizobacterium Acinetobacter radioresistens Strain SA188 Isolated from the Desert Plant
Indigofera argentea
Authors: Lafi Feras F. , Alam Intikhab , Bisseling Ton , Geurts Rene , Bajic Vladimir B. , Hirt Heribert , Saad Maged M.
Published: March 2017

Acinetobacter radioresistens
strain SA188 is a plant endophytic bacterium, isolated from root nodules of the desert plants
Indigofera
spp., collected in Jizan, Saudi Arabia. Here, we report the 3.2-Mb draft genome sequence of strain SA188, highlighting characteristic pathways for plant growth–promoting activity and environmental adaptation.
Novel Single-Stranded DNA Virus Genomes Recovered from Chimpanzee Feces Sampled from the Mambilla Plateau in Nigeria
Authors: Walters Matthew , Bawuro Musa , Christopher Alfred , Knight Alexander , Kraberger Simona , Stainton Daisy , Chapman Hazel , Varsani Arvind
Published: March 2017

Metagenomic approaches are rapidly expanding our knowledge of the diversity of viruses. In the fecal matter of Nigerian chimpanzees we recovered three gokushovirus genomes, one circular replication-associated protein encoding single-stranded DNA virus (CRESS), and a CRESS DNA molecule.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas fluorescens ML11A, an Endogenous Strain from Brook Charr with Antagonistic Properties against Aeromonas salmonicida subsp.
salmonicida
Authors: Gauthier Jeff , Charette Steve J. , Derome Nicolas
Published: March 2017

Pseudomonas fluorescens
ML11A, isolated from brook charr, showed a strong
in vitro
inhibitory effect against
Aeromonas salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
, a bacterial fish pathogen. Its genome harbors gene clusters for siderophore and bacteriocin biosynthesis and shares 99% whole-genome identity with
P. fluorescens
A506, a biological control strain used in agriculture.
Genome Sequences of Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Serovar Infantis Strains from Hungary Representing Two Peak Incidence Periods in Three Decades
Authors: Wilk Tímea , Szabó Móni , Szmolka Ama , Kiss János , Olasz Ferenc , Nagy Béla
Published: March 2017

Four strains of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Infantis isolated from humans (1980 to 1982) and broiler chickens (2016) have been sequenced. They represent the early and recent peak incidences of this serovar in Hungary. Genome sequences of these isolates provide comparative data on the evolution and rise of an endemic
S
. Infantis clone in Hungary.
Draft Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi IMR_TP298/15, a Strain with Intermediate Susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin, Isolated from a Typhoid Outbreak
Authors: Ahmad Norazah , Hii Shirley Yi Fen , Hashim Rohaidah , Issa Rahizan
Published: March 2017

Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhi with reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin is increasingly being reported globally. An outbreak caused by
Salmonella
Typhi with decreased ciprofloxacin susceptibility has not been reported before in Malaysia. We present here the annotated draft genome of a
Salmonella
Typhi strain involved in a typhoid outbreak.
Complete Genome Sequence of Variant Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Strain CH/HNZZ47/2016 Isolated from Suckling Piglets in China
Authors: Liu Xinsheng , Zhang Qiaoling , Fang Yuzhen , Zhou Peng , Lu Yanzhen , Xiao Shuai , Dong Zhaoliang , Zhang Yongguang , Wang Yonglu
Published: March 2017

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) could cause an acute and highly contagious enteric disease in swine. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of PEDV strain CH/HNZZ47/2016 isolated from suckling piglets with mild diarrhea in Henan Province, China. It will help understand the molecular and evolutionary characteristics of PEDV in China.
Genome Sequence of Delftia acidovorans HK171, a Nematicidal Bacterium Isolated from Tomato Roots
Authors: Han Jae Woo , Oh Mira , Choi Gyung Ja , Kim Hun
Published: March 2017

Delftia acidovorans
strain HK171, isolated from tomato roots, exhibited nematicidal activity against
Meloidogyne incognita
. Here, we present the genome sequence of
D. acidovorans
strain HK171, which consists of one circular chromosome of 6,430,384 bp, with 66.9% G+C content.
Genome Sequence of Serratia marcescens MSU97, a Plant-Associated Bacterium That Makes Multiple Antibiotics
Authors: Matilla Miguel A. , Udaondo Zulema , Krell Tino , Salmond George P. C.
Published: March 2017

Serratia marcescens
MSU97 was isolated from the Guayana region of Venezuela due to its ability to suppress plant-pathogenic oomycetes. Here, we report the genome sequence of MSU97, which produces various antibiotics, including the bacterial acetyl-coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) carboxylase inhibitor andrimid, the chlorinated macrolide oocydin A, and the red linear tripyrrole antibiotic prodigiosin.
The Insect Pathogens
Authors: Lovett Brian , St. Leger Raymond J.
Published: March 2017

Fungi are the most common disease-causing agents of insects; aside from playing a crucial role in natural ecosystems, insect-killing fungi are being used as alternatives to chemical insecticides and as resources for biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. Some common experimentally tractable genera, such asMetarhiziumspp., exemplify genetic diversity and dispersal because they contain numerous intraspecific variants with distinct environmental and insect host ranges. The availability of tools for molecular genetics and multiple sequenced genomes has made these fungi ideal experimental models for answering basic questions on the genetic and genomic processes behind adaptive phenotypes. For example, comparative genomics of entomopathogenic fungi has shown they exhibit diverse reproductive modes that often determine rates and patterns of genome evolution and are linked as cause or effect with pathogenic strategies. Fungal-insect pathogens represent lifestyle adaptations that evolved numerous times, and there are significant differences in host range and pathogenic strategies between the major groups. However, typically, spores landing on the cuticle produce appressoria and infection pegs that breach the cuticle using mechanical pressure and cuticle-degrading enzymes. Once inside the insect body cavity, fungal pathogens face a potent and comprehensively studied immune defense by which the host attempts to eliminate or reduce an infection. The Fungal Kingdom stands alone in the range, extent, and complexity of their manipulation of arthropod behavior. In part, this is because most only sporulate on cadavers, so they must ensure the dying host positions itself to allow efficient transmission.
Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Cell Fusion and Heterokaryon Formation in Filamentous Fungi
Authors: Daskalov Asen , Heller Jens , Herzog Stephanie , Fleißner André , Glass N. Louise
Published: March 2017

For the majority of fungal species, the somatic body of an individual is a network of interconnected cells sharing a common cytoplasm and organelles. This syncytial organization contributes to an efficient distribution of resources, energy, and biochemical signals. Cell fusion is a fundamental process for fungal development, colony establishment, and habitat exploitation and can occur between hyphal cells of an individual colony or between colonies of genetically distinct individuals. One outcome of cell fusion is the establishment of a stable heterokaryon, culminating in benefits for each individual via shared resources or being of critical importance for the sexual or parasexual cycle of many fungal species. However, a second outcome of cell fusion between genetically distinct strains is formation of unstable heterokaryons and the induction of a programmed cell death reaction in the heterokaryotic cells. This reaction of nonself rejection, which is termed heterokaryon (or vegetative) incompatibility, is widespread in the fungal kingdom and acts as a defense mechanism against genome exploitation and mycoparasitism. Here, we review the currently identified molecular players involved in the process of somatic cell fusion and its regulation in filamentous fungi. Thereafter, we summarize the knowledge of the molecular determinants and mechanism of heterokaryon incompatibility and place this phenomenon in the broader context of biotropic interactions and immunity.