bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is pulmonary vascular disease reversible with PPAR ɣ agonists?
Authors: Afdal Peter , AbdelMassih Antoine F.
Published: February 2018

Severe angio‐obliterative PAH remains a disease characterized by great morbidity and shortened survival. Unfortunately, the only currently available treatments for angio‐obliterative changes are palliative in the form of pulmonary vasodilators evolving from the phosphodiesterase inhibitor sildenafil to endothelin receptor antagonist: Bosentan; while the only definitive treatment is lung transplantation which remains dependent on the availability of donors and the transplant policies which vary widely from a country to another. PPARs, especially the γ isoform, are largely expressed in pulmonary artery endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. They are also found on endothelial progenitor cells. Several previous studies have highlighted the role of PPAR γ agonists in reversal of vascular remodeling especially in coronary, carotid and peripheral vascular disease atherosclerotic plaques. Experimental studies have also revealed that PPAR γ activation affects many different pathways; thus, the effect of PPAR γ is multifaceted, affecting almost every pathobiological pathway involved in the development of PAH simultaneously. We thereby hypothesize that PPAR γ agonists may play a key role in reversing severe pulmonary angio‐obliterative changes and promote microvascular regeneration which may substitute the need for heart‐lung transplantation in such patients.
Independent and cooperative regulation of staphylopine biosynthesis and trafficking by Fur and Zur
Authors: Fojcik Clémentine , Arnoux Pascal , Ouerdane Laurent , Aigle Marina , Alfonsi Laura , Borezée‐Durant Elise
Published: February 2018

Staphylococcus aureus expresses the Cnt system implicated in the active transport of trace metals by synthesizing (CntKLM) and exporting (CntE) staphylopine, a metallophore chelating metals and then taken up by an ABC‐transporter (CntABCDF). This machinery is encoded in the cntKLMABCDFE operon, preceded by a non‐coding region (PcntK) and containing an internal promoter region (PcntA). PcntK comprises a Fur box followed by a Zur box, a sRNA transcription start and a repeated region, while PcntA comprises a Fur box that overlaps a Zur box. We found that PcntK promoter activity is attenuated by the repeated sequence and strictly controlled by Fur or Zur binding to its respective target sequences. Interestingly, we discovered a cooperative regulation of the PcntA activity by both Fur and Zur binding to the Fur/Zur box, by identifying a tripartite complex with DNA. Repression of PcntA is less sensitive to metal concentration and therefore loosely repressed as compared to PcntK activity. Furthermore, the Cnt system is essential for the optimal import of zinc, thereby linking regulation and function of Cnt. Overall, our results highlight the need for fine and differential tuning of staphylopine biosynthesis and trafficking in order to efficiently respond to metal starvation and optimize metal recovery.
Excretion/defecation patterns in Triatoma infestans populations that are, respectively, susceptible and resistant to deltamethrin
Authors: Lobbia P. , Calcagno J. , Mougabure‐Cueto G.
Published: February 2018

Pyrethroid resistance has been detected in Triatoma infestans (Klug) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) specimens from different areas of Argentina and Bolivia. Genes conferring resistance can have a pleiotropic effect with epidemiological and evolutionary consequences. This research studied excretion/defecation patterns in deltamethrin‐resistant T. infestans in order to elucidate its biological performance, adaptive consequences and role in the transmission of Chagas' disease. One deltamethrin‐susceptible strain and two deltamethrin‐resistant strains were used. Fifth‐instar nymphs were fed ad libitum and their defecations recorded during and after the first or second feeding in the stadium. Resistant insects began to defecate later, defecated less, showed a lower proportion of defecating individuals and lower defecation indices compared with susceptible insects during the first hour after feeding. The number of bloodmeals in the stadium did not affect the main variables determining the pattern of defecation. The present study suggests that alterations in the excretion/defecation pattern in resistant insects entail an adaptive cost and, considering only this pattern, determine a lower capacity for transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) compared with susceptible insects.
Electroreception in early vertebrates: survey, evidence and new information
Authors: King Benedict , Hu Yuzhi , Long John A.
Published: February 2018

Electroreception is widespread in living vertebrates, and is often considered to be a primitive vertebrate character. However, the early evolution of electroreception remains unclear. A variety of structures in early vertebrate fossils have been put forward as potential electroreceptors, but these need to be reassessed in light of the now substantial literature on electroreceptors in living vertebrates. Here we review the evidence for all putative electroreceptors in early vertebrates, and provide new information from CT scans. In the jawless osteostracans, the pore canal system in the dermal skeleton and the lateral and dorsal fields do not resemble electroreceptors in living species. Nevertheless, the presence of a recurrent ramus of the anterior lateral line nerve in osteostracans suggests that electroreceptors were present, by comparison with lampreys. In placoderms, cutaneous sense organs on arthrodire cheek plates are possible electroreceptors. CT data shows that the orientation of these pits is anomalous for electroreceptors, and intimately associated with bone growth. A newly identified type of cheek pit, for which the term ‘Young's apparatus’ is introduced, is known from only two arthrodire specimens. It is closely associated with the underlying jaw joint, but its precise function is unknown. In osteichthyans, the ‘pore group’ clusters of early sarcopterygians may have housed electroreceptors. CT data from Devonian lungfish support this interpretation, showing internal morphology consistent with electroreceptors, and innervation via the rostral tubuli underlying the dermal bone of the snout. The early osteichthyan Ligulalepis has pit structures which may be electroreceptors, and were possibly innervated by lateral line nerves. Specialized electroreceptor systems, including elaborated ‘pore group’ pits in Devonian lungfish and rostral organs in the earliest coelacanths, show that electroreception may have had an important role in niche specialization in early vertebrates. Finally, fossil data does not support the hypothesis that vertebrate hard tissues initially evolved to shield electroreceptors.
Generating genetic variation in narrow‐leafed lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) for plant architecture by ethyl methanesulfonate mutagenesis
Authors: Fischer Kristin , Rudloff Eicke , Roux Steffen R. , Dieterich Regine , Wehling Peter , Friedt Wolfgang , Ruge‐Wehling Brigitte
Published: February 2018

Narrow‐leafed lupin (NLL) is a source of protein and fibre with exceptional functional properties useful for a variety of purposes. In adapted NLL germplasm selected for low alkaloid contents, the genetic base is narrow, thus limiting fast breeding progress. In an EMS‐based mutagenesis programme, we have treated 40,000 seeds of cv. ‘Boruta’ and obtained a variety of phenotypic mutant lines expressing novel growth types with altered plant height and/or branching. In 3‐year field trials at two locations, three of these lines exhibited significantly improved grain yield components compared to the cv. ‘Boruta’. Growth types of these promising lines were shown to be inherited in a monogenic recessive manner and should, thus, be easily fixable by breeding.
The Japanese Society of Pathology Guidelines on the handling of pathological tissue samples for genomic research: Standard operating procedures based on empirical analyses
Authors: Kanai Yae , Nishihara Hiroshi , Miyagi Yohei , Tsuruyama Tatsuhiro , Taguchi Kenichi , Katoh Hiroto , Takeuchi Tomoyo , Gotoh Masahiro , Kuramoto Junko , Arai Eri , Ojima Hidenori , Shibuya Ayako , Yoshida Teruhiko , Akahane Toshiaki , Kasajima Rika , Morita Kei‐ichi , Inazawa Johji , Sasaki Takeshi , Fukayama Masashi , Oda Yoshinao
Published: February 2018

Genome research using appropriately collected pathological tissue samples is expected to yield breakthroughs in the development of biomarkers and identification of therapeutic targets for diseases such as cancers. In this connection, the Japanese Society of Pathology (JSP) has developed “The JSP Guidelines on the Handling of Pathological Tissue Samples for Genomic Research” based on an abundance of data from empirical analyses of tissue samples collected and stored under various conditions. Tissue samples should be collected from appropriate sites within surgically resected specimens, without disturbing the features on which pathological diagnosis is based, while avoiding bleeding or necrotic foci. They should be collected as soon as possible after resection: at the latest within about 3 h of storage at 4°C. Preferably, snap‐frozen samples should be stored in liquid nitrogen (about −180°C) until use. When intending to use genomic DNA extracted from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue, 10% neutral buffered formalin should be used. Insufficient fixation and overfixation must both be avoided. We hope that pathologists, clinicians, clinical laboratory technicians and biobank operators will come to master the handling of pathological tissue samples based on the standard operating procedures in these Guidelines to yield results that will assist in the realization of genomic medicine.
Feasibility of applying the psychosocial intervention STrAtegies for RelaTives to family caregivers of patients with dementia: a case report
Authors: Kashimura Masami , Nomura Toshiaki , Ishiwata Akiko , Kitamura Shin
Published: February 2018

As the number of people with dementia in Japan continues to rise, family caregivers are experiencing an increasing care burden. Previous research has shown that this care burden can affect family caregivers' physical and mental health. Therefore, providing support for caregivers of family members with dementia has become an urgent issue in the country. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of applying STrAtegies for RelaTives (START), a psychosocial intervention programme developed in the UK to improve caregivers' moods and quality of life, to Japanese family caregivers. Specifically, in this paper, we provide a detailed description of the application of the Japanese version of START to a female caregiver. Our investigation found that the Japanese version of START is a feasible option for alleviating the mental and physical burden on family caregivers of patients with dementia. This result provides preliminary support for the wider application of START in Japan, as it can decrease care burden and improve the daily lives of caregivers of people with dementia. It also supports the development and implementation of other systems that can provide similar services for other caregivers.
Financial Rewards Do Not Stimulate Coproduction: Evidence from Two Experiments
Authors: Voorberg William , Jilke Sebastian , Tummers Lars , Bekkers Victor
Published: February 2018

Western governments are increasingly trying to stimulate citizens to coproduce public services by, among other strategies, offering them financial incentives. However, there are competing views on whether financial incentives stimulate coproduction. While some argue that financial incentives increase citizens' willingness to coproduce, others suggest that incentives decrease their willingness (i.e., crowding out). To test these competing expectations, the authors designed a set of experiments that offered subjects a financial incentive to assist municipalities in helping refugees integrate. The experiment was first conducted among university students within a laboratory setting. Then, the initial findings were replicated and extended among a general adult sample. Results suggest that small financial rewards have no effect: they neither increase nor decrease people's willingness to coproduce. When the offered amount is increased substantially, willingness to coproduce increases only marginally. Hence, financial incentives are not a very cost‐efficient instrument to stimulate coproduction.
Central Bank Independence and Deflation
Authors: Tokic Damir
Published: February 2018

Deflation presents special challenges to central banking, as traditional monetary policy tools are highly inefficient in dealing with deflationary pressures. In this case, the Federal Reserve must use alternative monetary policy tools that are specially designed to artificially boost asset prices through “printing press” or currency manipulation. Unfortunately, these alternative monetary policy tools create unintended political, geopolitical, and social consequences that overreach into the direct responsibilities of other branches of government. Thus, the government must be able to influence Federal Open Market Committee decisions that potentially affect (or contradict) U.S. foreign policy, U.S. trade policy, U.S. dollar policy, and deliberate domestic/global wealth distribution policies.
Lactoferrin increases sperm membrane functionality of frozen equine semen
Authors: Martins HS , da Silva GC , Cortes SF , Paes FO , Martins Filho OA , Araujo MSS , Stahlberg R , Lagares MA
Published: February 2018

Contents

During cryopreservation, sperm was submitted to an increase in reactive oxygen species generation. This work aimed to improve the quality of frozen equine sperm after the addition of antioxidants lactoferrin (Lf) and catalase (Cat) to a freezing extender. Semen from six stallions was frozen with the extenders: F1) control, INRA 82 freezing extender, F2) F1 + 500 μg/ml Lf and F3) F1 + 200 IU/ml Cat. After thawing, sperm motility parameters, membrane functionality and integrity, and acrosome integrity and spontaneous acrosome‐reacted sperm were evaluated with a computer‐assisted sperm analysis, a hypoosmotic swelling test and epifluorescent microscopy, respectively. Nitrite, hydroperoxide and iron concentrations of frozen semen were measured with spectrophotometry. The percentage of functional membrane sperm treated with Lf was higher (50.7% ± 11.6%) compared to that of the control (37.6% ± 15.6%), while the iron (61.4 ± 11.6 vs 73.3 ± 13.8 mg/dl) and nitrite concentrations (16.3 ± 7.1 vs 25.9 ± 4.2 μM/μg protein) were lower, respectively (p < .05). Thus, it can be suggested that Lf protect stallion spermatozoon during freezing as it has increased the percentage of sperm with functional membrane and decreased the lipid oxidant agents.
Spatially designed revegetation—why the spatial arrangement of plants should be as important to revegetation as they are to natural systems
Authors: McCallum Kimberly P. , Lowe Andrew J. , Breed Martin F. , Paton David C.
Published: February 2018

The spatial arrangements of plants, both within and between species, play a key role in natural systems and influence many fundamental ecological processes (e.g. survival, competition, facilitation, pollination, and seed dispersal) and ecosystem functions (e.g. habitat value, erosion, water, and nutrient capture). Despite this knowledge, fine‐scale planting arrangements are rarely considered during restoration plantings, yet manipulation of planting designs has the potential to aid the development of resilient and self‐sustaining ecosystems. Here, we outline how the spatial arrangement of plants can influence processes both at the vegetation level and more broadly at the ecosystem level. The review is focused on woodland systems, but also draws on key examples from grassland ecosystems. Following this synthesis, we identify research gaps in the revegetation literature that could usefully be addressed to help develop this understudied field of research. Finally, we outline components of population and community level arrangements (e.g. spacing, aggregation, community composition) that can be considered during restoration plantings—spatially designed revegetation—which are likely to lead to improved ecological outcomes of woodland and grassy woodland revegetation.
Is urbanization improving real estate investment? A cross‐regional study of China
Authors: Liu Tie‐Ying , Su Chi‐Wei , Chang Hsu‐Ling , Chu Chien‐Chi
Published: February 2018

This paper applies bootstrap panel Granger causality to test the relationship between urbanization and real estate investment from 1990 to 2014 for 29 provinces in China. We argue that the patterns of interaction between urbanization and investment in real estate vary across regions. The results show that urbanization does Granger‐cause investment in real estate, primarily in the central and northeastern regions of China, while urbanization does not Granger‐cause investment in real estate in the eastern and western regions, except for four provinces. Most regions do not have a Granger‐causality relationship from real estate investment to urbanization; the exceptions are Henan and Hei Longjiang provinces. Our results only support one theory on the relationship between urbanization and the real estate market for one‐third of the provinces. Thus, urbanization can improve real estate investment by increasing the demand for housing as a result of population agglomeration, but urbanization does not depend on real estate investment in China.
“A joke a day keeps the doctor away?” Meta‐analytical evidence of differential associations of habitual humor styles with mental health
Authors: Schneider Martha , Voracek Martin , Tran Ulrich S.
Published: February 2018

Humor and mental health are interconnected as is evidenced by a large number of studies. However, associations are only small and inconsistent as the operationalization of humor poses a methodological challenge. The Humor Styles Questionnaire (HSQ) differentiates four humor styles that might be beneficial or harmful to mental health. The aim of the present study was to meta‐analytically aggregate studies using the HSQ to assess the associations of different humor styles with four areas of mental health (self‐esteem, life satisfaction, optimism, depression). An extensive electronic database literature search identified 37 studies that reported correlations between the HSQ scales and the four areas of mental health in 45 independent samples (total N = 12,734). In total, 16 meta‐analyses were conducted. Moderating effects of participant age, sex, and geographic region were examined via subgroup analyses and meta‐regression. Humor styles differed in terms of their associations with mental health. Health‐promoting humor styles were overall positively correlated with mental health (small‐to‐medium effect sizes). Self‐defeating humor was overall negatively correlated with mental health. Aggressive humor was overall unrelated with mental health. Moderator analyses suggested geographic differences (Eastern vs. Western samples) and sex differences for some of these associations. Fostering specific humor styles may be beneficial for mental health. In addition, observing the habitual use of humor styles might help therapists to develop a better understanding of their clients. Differences in the utilization and the correlates of humor styles in Eastern and Western societies, and sex differences, need to be addressed in future research.
Quotas and affirmative action: Understanding group‐based outcomes and attitudes
Authors: Morgenroth Thekla , Ryan Michelle K.
Published: February 2018

More and more countries are adopting quotas to increase group‐based equality in the boardroom and the political sphere. Nevertheless, affirmative action in general and quotas in particular remain a highly controversial subject—eliciting negative reactions from privileged groups, while support among minority and lower‐status groups is generally higher. Focusing on gender, we take a broad approach to the topic and discuss (a) the effects of quotas and affirmative action on the under‐representation of minority groups and on perceptions of their competence, (b) the effects of quotas and affirmative action on organisational performance, and (c) predictors of attitudes towards affirmative action and quotas. We conclude that the benefits of quotas outweigh their costs and that they are an effective way of tackling group‐based inequality. We also discuss strategies that can be used to elicit more support among those groups that are particularly critical of quotas.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Open Enrollment Decisions and Student Achievement Trajectories
Authors: Carlson Deven , Lavery Lesley , Hughes Tyler
Published: February 2018

Objective

Analyze achievement trajectories of students who transfer out of their district of residence via Colorado's interdistrict open enrollment policy.

Methods

Drawing on a data set containing annual individual‐level records from the universe of students attending Colorado public schools between 2005–2006 and 2009–2010, we estimate the achievement trajectories of open enrollment participants via ordinary least squares (OLS) models containing student fixed effects.

Results and Conclusion

Our analyses indicate that the achievement of open enrollment participants gradually declines in the years leading up to their transfer. After open enrolling, students whose participation is stable through the duration they are observed in our data exhibit small achievement gains, but those who reenroll in their district of residence exhibit additional small declines. On average, those who use open enrollment as a long‐term education option tend to enroll in districts that are more advantaged on traditional measures of educational quality than their district of residence.
The Long Road to Equality: A Meta‐Regression Analysis of Changes in the Black Test Score Gap Over Time*
Authors: Huntington‐Klein Nick , Ackert Elizabeth
Published: February 2018

Objective

We analyze changes in test score gaps between black students and their peers from 1979 to 2010 and examine how observable factors contribute to the gap.

Methods

Using meta‐regression, we examine the relationship between African‐American racial status and achievement in U.S. K–12 education in 165 published studies.

Results

The absolute relationship between black status and achievement decreased during the 1980s and early 1990s, but was stagnant from the late 1990s through 2010. Socioeconomic status explained more than half of the gap, and the influence of socioeconomic status on the gap did not change significantly over time. Schooling characteristics explained relatively little of the gap, but school‐level factors increased in importance over time.

Conclusion

Black test score gap closure stagnated in an era when federal education policy sought to close racial achievement gaps. Observable factors explain more of the gap than has been previously recognized.
Four novel alleles in Korean individuals, HLA‐B*40:323, DRB1*14:177, DQB1*03:200, and DQB1*06:205
Authors: Park B. G. , Kim S.‐K. , Im J. , Yoon C. E. , Oh H.‐B.
Published: February 2018

Four novel HLA alleles identified in Korean individuals and confirmed by monoallelic sequencing.
Diabetic retinopathy screening programme utilising non‐mydriatic fundus imaging in slum populations of New Delhi, India
Authors: Wadhwani Meenakshi , Vashist Praveen , Singh Suraj Senjam , Gupta Noopur , Malhotra Sumit , Gupta Aparna , Shukla Pallavi , Bhardwaj Amit , Gupta Vivek
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To develop and implement a community‐based programme for screening of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in urban populations of Delhi.

Methods

Known diabetics (KDs) aged 40 years and older were identified through house‐to‐house surveys, volunteers and publicity. All KDs were referred to DR screening camps organised locally where procedures included brief medical history, ocular examination and non‐mydriatic fundus photography using portable handheld camera. Fundal images were graded on the spot by trained optometrists for DR. Patients with DR were referred to tertiary centre for management.

Results

A total of 11 566 KDs were identified, of whom 9435 (81.6%) visited DR screening camps and 8432 (89.4%) had DR gradable images. DR was identified in 13.5% of subjects; 351 cases were mild NPDR, 567 moderate, 92 severe. Seventy‐seven had PDR, and 49 had DME, and 2.7% of participants were blind (presenting visual acuity <3/60 in better eye). Non‐use of lifestyle management, presence of systemic complications, BMI <18.5 kg/m2, disease duration of >5 years and uncontrolled diabetes were associated with increased odds of DR. All cases with DR were referred, and 420 (37%) successful referrals to base hospital were observed.

Conclusion

The programme of creating awareness about DR, identifying KDs and optometrist‐led DR screening using non‐mydriatic fundus camera based in slums was successful.
Impact of rotavirus vaccination on rotavirus hospitalisation rates among a resource‐limited rural population in Mbita, Western Kenya
Authors: Wandera Ernest Apondi , Mohammad Shah , Bundi Martin , Nyangao James , Galata Amina , Kathiiko Cyrus , Odoyo Erick , Guyo Sora , Miring'u Gabriel , Komoto Satoshi , Ichinose Yoshio
Published: February 2018

Objectives

A two‐dose oral monovalent rotavirus vaccine (RV1) was introduced into the Kenyan National Immunization Program in July 2014. We assessed trends in hospitalisation for rotavirus‐specific acute gastroenteritis (AGE) and strain distribution among children <5 years in a rural, resource‐limited setting in Kenya before and after the nationwide implementation of the vaccine.

Methods

Data on rotavirus AGE and strain distribution were derived from a 5‐year hospital‐based surveillance. We compared rotavirus‐related hospitalisations and strain distribution in the 2‐year post‐vaccine period with the 3‐year pre‐vaccine baseline. Vaccine administrative data from the Unit of Vaccines and Immunization Services (UVIS) for Mbita sub‐county were used to estimate rotavirus immunisation coverage in the study area.

Results

We observed a 48% (95% CI: 27–64%) overall decline in rotavirus‐related hospitalisations among children aged <5 years in the post‐vaccine period. Coverage with the last dose of rotavirus vaccine increased from 51% in year 1% to 72% in year 2 of the vaccine implementation. Concurrently, reductions in rotavirus hospitalisations increased from 40% in the first year to 53% in the second year of vaccine use. The reductions were most pronounced among the vaccine‐eligible group, with the proportion of cases in this age group dropping to 14% in post‐vaccine years from a high of 51% in the pre‐vaccine period. A diversity of rotavirus strains circulated before the introduction of the vaccine with G1P[8] being the most dominant strain. G2P[4] replaced G1P[8] as the dominant strain after the vaccine was introduced.

Conclusions

Rotavirus vaccination has resulted in a notable decline in hospital admissions for rotavirus infections in a rural resource‐limited population in Kenya. This provides early evidence for continued use of rotavirus vaccines in routine childhood immunisations in Kenya. Our data also underscore the need for expanding coverage on second dose so as to maximise the impact of the vaccine.
Isolation and identification of Acinetobacter spp. from healthy canine skin
Authors: Mitchell Kayleigh E , Turton Jane F , Lloyd David H
Published: February 2018

Background

Acinetobacter species can exhibit widespread resistance to antimicrobial agents. They are already recognized as important nosocomial pathogens of humans, but are becoming increasingly recognized in opportunistic infections of animals.

Hypothesis/objectives

This study aimed to determine whether Acinetobacter spp. are carried on skin of healthy dogs and, if present, to identify the species.

Animals

Forty dogs were sampled at veterinary practices and rescue centres. They were free from skin disease and receiving no systemic or topical treatments.

Methods

Skin swab samples were collected from four sites on each dog and cultured. Acinetobacter spp. isolates were detected by biochemical tests and gas chromatography. The species was determined by sequencing the RNA polymerase β‐subunit (rpoB) gene. Isolates were screened for OXA carbapenemase genes and class 1 integrons capable of carrying resistance genes, and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility tests.

Results

For 25% dogs sampled (10 of 40), Acinetobacter spp. were isolated at one or more skin sites. Thirteen Acinetobacter spp. isolates were recovered from 160 samples. The most frequently cultured was A. lwoffii (seven of 13), followed by A. baumannii (two of 13), A. junii (one of 13), A. calcoaceticus (one of 13), A. pittii (one of 13) and a novel Acinetobacter species (one of 13). Class 1 integrons and blaOXA‐23‐like were not detected. Isolates were susceptible to most antibiotics.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The study confirms that Acinetobacter spp. can survive on canine skin, where they may be potential reservoirs for infection. This highlights the importance of good hygiene in veterinary practice, adhering to aseptic principles in surgery, and treatment based on culture and susceptibility testing where possible.
The Sda and Cad glycan antigens and their glycosyltransferase, β1,4GalNAcT‐II, in xenotransplantation
Authors: Zhao Chengjiang , Cooper David K. C. , Dai Yifan , Hara Hidetaka , Cai Zhiming , Mou Lisha
Published: February 2018

Antibody‐mediated rejection is a barrier to the clinical application of xenotransplantation, and xenoantigens play an important role in this process. Early research suggested that N‐acetyl‐D‐galactosamine (GalNAc) could serve as a potential xenoantigen. GalNAc is the immunodominant glycan of the Sda antigen. Recently, knockout of β1,4‐N‐acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 (β1,4GalNAcT‐II) from the pig results in a decrease in binding of human serum antibodies to pig cells. It is believed that this is the result of the elimination of the GalNAc on the Sda antigen, which is catalyzed by the enzyme, β1,4GalNAcT‐II. However, research into human blood group antigens suggests that only a small percentage (1%‐2%) of people express anti‐Sda antibodies directed to Sda antigen, and yet a majority appear to have antibodies directed to the products of pig B4GALNT2. Questions can therefore be asked as to (i) whether the comprehensive structure of the Sda antigen in humans, that is, the underlying sugar structure, is identical to the Sda antigen in pigs, (ii) whether the human anti‐Sda antibody binds ubiquitously to pig cells, but not to human cells, and (iii) what role the Sda++ (also called Cad) antigen is playing in this discrepancy. We review what is known about these antigens and discuss the discrepancies that have been noted above.
THE MYSTERIANISM OF OWEN FLANAGAN'S NORMATIVE MIND SCIENCE
Authors: Leidenhag Mikael
Published: February 2018

This article critically analyzes Owen Flanagan's physicalism and attempt at deriving ethical normativity from current neuroscience. It is argued that neurophysicalism, despite Flanagan's harsh critique of “the new mysterians,” entails a form of mysterianism and that it fails to appropriately ground human mentality within physicalism. Flanagan seeks to bring spirituality and a physicalist ontology together by showing how it is possible to derive an account of the good life from science. This attempt is critiqued and it is shown that Flanagan fails to establish the consistency between ethical normativity and physicalism. Hence, another form of mysterianism seems to emerge within this normative mind science.
Glucose and lactate as metabolic constraints on presynaptic transmission at an excitatory synapse
Authors: Lucas Sarah J. , Michel Christophe B. , Marra Vincenzo , Smalley Joshua L. , Hennig Matthias H. , Graham Bruce P. , Forsythe Ian D.
Published: February 2018

Key points

Synapses have high energy demands which increase during intense activity. We show that presynaptic terminals can utilise extracellular glucose or lactate to generate energy to maintain synaptic transmission.

Reducing energy substrates induces a metabolic stress: presynaptic ATP depletion impaired synaptic transmission through a reduction in the number of functional synaptic vesicle release sites and a slowing of vesicle pool replenishment, without a consistent change in release probability.

Metabolic function is compromised in many pathological conditions (e.g. stroke, traumatic brain injury and neurodegeneration). Knowledge of how synaptic transmission is constrained by metabolic stress, especially during intense brain activity, will provide insights to improve cognition following pathological insults.

The synapse has high energy demands, which increase during intense activity. Presynaptic ATP production depends on substrate availability and usage will increase during activity, which in turn could influence transmitter release and information transmission. We investigated transmitter release at the mouse calyx of Held synapse using glucose or lactate (10, 1 or 0 mm) as the extracellular substrates while inducing metabolic stress. High‐frequency stimulation (HFS) and recovery paradigms evoked trains of EPSCs monitored under voltage‐clamp. Whilst postsynaptic intracellular ATP was stabilised by diffusion from the patch pipette, depletion of glucose increased EPSC depression during HFS and impaired subsequent recovery. Computational modelling of these data demonstrated a reduction in the number of functional release sites and slowed vesicle pool replenishment during metabolic stress, with little change in release probability. Directly depleting presynaptic terminal ATP impaired transmitter release in an analogous manner to glucose depletion. In the absence of glucose, presynaptic terminal metabolism could utilise lactate from the aCSF and this was blocked by inhibition of monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). MCT inhibitors significantly suppressed transmission in low glucose, implying that lactate is a presynaptic substrate. Additionally, block of glycogenolysis accelerated synaptic transmission failure in the absence of extracellular glucose, consistent with supplemental supply of lactate by local astrocytes. We conclude that both glucose and lactate support presynaptic metabolism and that limited availability, exacerbated by high‐intensity firing, constrains presynaptic ATP, impeding transmission through a reduction in functional presynaptic release sites as vesicle recycling slows when ATP levels are low.
Multiscale Material Modeling and Simulation of the Mechanical Behavior of Dual Phase Steels Under Different Strain Rates: Parametric Study and Optimization
Authors: Belgasam Tarek M. , Zbib Hussein M.
Published: February 2018

Recent studies on developing dual phase (DP) steels showed that the combination of strength/ductility could be significantly improved when changing the volume fraction and grain size of phases in the microstructure depending on microstructure properties. Consequently, DP steel manufacturers are interested in predicting microstructure properties as well as optimizing microstructure design at different strain rate conditions. In this work, a microstructure-based approach using a multiscale material and structure model was developed. The approach examined the mechanical behavior of DP steels using virtual tensile tests with a full micro-macro multiscale material model to identify specific mechanical properties. Microstructures with varied ferrite grain sizes, martensite volume fractions, and carbon content in DP steels were also studied. The influence of these microscopic parameters at different strain rates on the mechanical properties of DP steels was examined numerically using a full micro-macro multiscale finite element method. An elasto-viscoplastic constitutive model and a response surface methodology (RSM) were used to determine the optimum microstructure parameters for a required combination of strength/ductility at different strain rates. The results from the numerical simulations were compared with experimental results found in the literature. The developed methodology proved to be a powerful tool for studying the effect and interaction of key strain rate sensitivity and microstructure parameters on mechanical behavior and thus can be used to identify optimum microstructural conditions at different strain rates.
Wall Pressure in Developing Turbulent Pipe Flows
Authors: Selvam Kamal , Öngüner Emir , Peixinho Jorge , Zanoun El-Sayed , Egbers Christoph
Published: February 2018

Velocity fluctuations are widely used to identify the behavior of developing turbulent flows. The pressure on the other hand, which is strongly coupled with the gradient of the mean velocity and fluctuations, is less explored. In this study, we report the results of wall pressure measurements for the development of pipe flow at high Reynolds numbers along the axial direction. It is found that the pressure fluctuations increase exponentially along the pipe with a self-similarity scaling. The exponential growth of the pressure fluctuations along the pipe saturates after reaching a critical position around 50 diameters from the inlet. It qualitatively agrees with the critical position usually adopted for fully developed turbulence, which was obtained from earlier velocity fluctuations at various locations along the pipe centerline. Results also show that the exponential growth of the pressure fluctuations is weakly affected by the presence of ring obstacles placed close to the pipe inlet. Finally, it is found that the pressure fluctuations decrease as a function of Reynolds number, contrary to the boundary layer flow.
Effect of Exercise Duration on Subsequent Appetite and Energy Intake in Obese Adolescent Girls
Authors: Masurier Julie , Mathieu Marie-Eve , Fearnbach Stephanie Nicole , Cardenoux Charlotte , Julian Valérie , Lambert Céline , Pereira Bruno , Duclos Martine , Boirie Yves , Thivel David
Published: February 2018

There is a growing interest regarding the effect of exercise on appetite and energy intake in youth. While the role of exercise intensity has been a primary focus of study, the effect of exercise duration on subsequent food intake has not been fully examined in obese adolescents. On three separate mornings in a randomly assigned order, obese adolescent girls (n = 20) aged 12–15 years old were asked to perform a rest session (control, CON) or two cycling sessions for 20 (EX20) or 40 min (EX40) set at their ventilatory threshold. Absolute and relative energy intake were measured from an ad libitum lunch meal 30 min after rest or exercise and appetite feelings assessed using visual analogue scales throughout the day. Hunger, satiety, and prospective food consumption were not significantly different between conditions. Absolute energy intake (kcal) did not differ between conditions, while relative energy intake on EX40 (571 ± 381 kcal) was significantly lower than during CON (702 ± 320 kcal; p < .05) and EX20 (736 ± 457 kcal; p < .05). Fat ingestion (in grams) was significantly lower on CON (7.8 ± 3.2 g) compared with EX20 (10.3 ± 4.6 g; p < .01). Protein intake (in grams) was higher on EX20 (37.0 ± 16.6 g) compared with both CON (29.5 ± 11.7 g; p < .01) and EX40 (33.1 ± 10.9 g; p < .05). However, the percentage of total energy derived from each macronutrient was not different between conditions. Obese adolescent girls do not compensate for an acute bout of exercise set at their ventilatory threshold by increasing energy intake, regardless of the exercise duration.
Liquid gating elastomeric porous system with dynamically controllable gas/liquid transport
Authors: Sheng Zhizhi , Wang Honglong , Tang Yongliang , Wang Miao , Huang Lizhi , Min Lingli , Meng Haiqiang , Chen Songyue , Jiang Lei , Hou Xu
Published: February 2018

We report a new membrane system showing dynamic controllable multiphase transport and separation under steady-state pressure.
Spin chirality induced skew scattering and anomalous Hall effect in chiral magnets
Authors: Ishizuka Hiroaki , Nagaosa Naoto
Published: February 2018

A new mechanism of skew scattering and anomalous Hall effect due to the spin chirality fluctuation is proposed theoretically.
The force-dependent mechanism of DnaK-mediated mechanical folding
Authors: Perales-Calvo Judit , Giganti David , Stirnemann Guillaume , Garcia-Manyes Sergi
Published: February 2018

Mechanical force regulates the extent of chaperone binding to the protein substrate during mechanical folding.
Metasurface optics for full-color computational imaging
Authors: Colburn Shane , Zhan Alan , Majumdar Arka
Published: February 2018

We design metalenses to capture colored images with white light by combining metasurfaces and computational imaging.
Direct single-molecule dynamic detection of chemical reactions
Authors: Guan Jianxin , Jia Chuancheng , Li Yanwei , Liu Zitong , Wang Jinying , Yang Zhongyue , Gu Chunhui , Su Dingkai , Houk Kendall N. , Zhang Deqing , Guo Xuefeng
Published: February 2018

The dynamic process of a nucleophilic addition reaction has been investigated in graphene-molecule single-molecule junctions.
As polar ozone mends, UV shield closer to equator thins
Authors: Reese April
Published: February 2018

Short-lived chemicals may be the culprit.
China's AI imperative
Authors: Larson Christina
Published: February 2018

The country's massive investments in artificial intelligence are disrupting the industry—and strengthening control of the populace.
Toward an optically controlled brain
Authors: Feliu Neus , Neher Erwin , Parak Wolfgang J.
Published: February 2018

Noninvasive deep brain stimulation can be achieved by optical triggers
When quantum optics meets topology
Authors: Amo Alberto
Published: February 2018

Single photons are routed around bends in photonic crystals with little backscattering
War and peace in the nuclear age
Authors: Colglazier E. William
Published: February 2018

The ongoing confrontation with North Korea is a reminder that the world must
prevent nuclear weapons from ever being used again. North Korea's
development of a nuclear arsenal and delivery systems that could threaten the
U.S. mainland, South Korea, and Japan has heightened the possibility of a
disastrous conflict with hundreds of thousands of casualties. If constructive
dialogue does not happen soon, the United States and North Korea may ratchet up
tensions and take increasingly provocative actions. The decision by North and
South Korea to field a combined team in the Winter Olympics gives hope for
broader engagement, but diplomacy by scientists might be one step toward a more
lasting rapprochement.
Essential immunologic orchestrators of intestinal homeostasis
Authors: Zhou Lei , Sonnenberg Gregory F.
Published: February 2018

This Review discusses how seminal findings have shaped our current understanding of homeostasis and host-microbiota interactions in the mammalian intestine.
Enterococcus faecalis
Sex Pheromone cCF10 Enhances Conjugative Plasmid Transfer
In Vivo
Authors: Hirt Helmut , Greenwood-Quaintance Kerryl E. , Karau Melissa J. , Till Lisa M. , Kashyap Purna C. , Patel Robin , Dunny Gary M.
Published: February 2018

Cell-cell communication mediated by peptide pheromones (cCF10 [CF]) is essential for high-frequency plasmid transfer
in vitro
in
Enterococcus faecalis
. To examine the role of pheromone signaling
in vivo
, we established either a CF-producing (CF+) recipient or a recipient producing a biologically inactive variant of CF (CF− recipient) in a germfree mouse model 3 days before donor inoculation and determined transfer frequencies of the pheromone-inducible plasmid pCF10. Plasmid transfer was detected in the upper and middle sections of the intestinal tract 5 h after donor inoculation and was highly efficient in the absence of antibiotic selection. The transconjugant/donor ratio reached a maximum level approaching 1 on day 4 in the upper intestinal tract. Plasmid transfer was significantly lower with the CF− recipient. While rescue of the CF− mating defect by coculture with CF+ recipients is easily accomplished
in vitro
, no extracellular complementation occurred
in vivo
. This suggests that most pheromone signaling in the gut occurs between recipient and donor cells in very close proximity. Plasmid-bearing cells (donors plus transconjugants) steadily increased in the population from 0.1% after donor inoculation to about 10% at the conclusion of the experiments. This suggests a selective advantage of pCF10 carriage distinct from antibiotic resistance or bacteriocin production. Our results demonstrate that pheromone signaling is required for efficient pCF10 transfer
in vivo
. In the absence of CF+ recipients, a low level of transfer to CF− recipients occurred in the gut. This may result from low-level host-mediated induction of the donors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, similar to that previously observed in serum.

IMPORTANCE
Horizontal gene transfer is a major factor in the biology of
Enterococcus faecalis
, an important nosocomial pathogen. Previous studies showing efficient conjugative plasmid transfer in the gastrointestinal (GI) tracts of experimental animals did not examine how the enterococcal sex pheromone response impacts the efficiency of transfer. Our study demonstrates for the first time pheromone-enhanced, high-frequency plasmid transfer of
E. faecalis
plasmid pCF10 in a mouse model in the absence of antibiotic or bacteriocin selection. Pheromone production by recipients dramatically increased plasmid transfer in germfree mice colonized initially with recipients, followed by donors. The presence of a coresident community of common gut microbes did not significantly reduce
in vivo
plasmid transfer between enterococcal donors and recipients. In mice colonized with enterococcal recipients, we detected plasmid transfer in the intestinal tract within 5 h of addition of donors, before transconjugants could be cultured from feces. Surprisingly, pCF10 carriage provided a competitive fitness advantage unrelated to antibiotic resistance or bacteriocin production.