bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Validation of a General Health Quality of Life Tool for Cats Used to Compare Healthy Cats and Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bijsmans E.S. , Jepson R.E. , Syme H.M. , Elliott J. , Niessen S.J.M.
Published: November 2015

Background

Numerous validated psychometric tools are available to assess impact of disease on a human's quality of life (QoL). To date, no psychometrically validated general health‐related QoL tool exists for cats.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To develop and validate a tool for assessment of owner‐perceived QoL in cats (CatQoL) and to use this tool to compare QoL between healthy cats and those with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Animals/Subjects

Total of 204 owners of young healthy cats (YH, n = 99; <9 years), older healthy cats (OH, n = 35), and cats diagnosed with CKD (CKD, n = 70) completed the CatQoL.

Methods

Discussions with a focus group and 2 pilot surveys informed design of 16 QoL questions grouped into 4 domains. Each item scored according to frequency and importance, and item‐weighted‐impact‐scores were calculated. The validity of the tool was assessed using principal components analysis and Cronbach's α. The average item‐weighted‐impact‐score (AWIS) was compared among groups and domains.

Results

Sixteen‐item CatQoL showed good internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α, 0.77) and unidimensionality with significant loadings (0.2–0.7) and communalities (>0.3). Young healthy cats had significantly higher AWIS (median [IQR], 1.25 [0.63, 1.88]) than OH (0.56 [−0.06, 1.00]) and CKD cats (−0.06 [−0.81, 0.88]), P < .001). CKD cats had significantly lower AWIS for eating domain (YH: 2.00 [1.00, 3.00]; OH: 2.00 [0.67, 3.00]; CKD : 1.00 [0.00, 2.67]) when compared with the YH group and OH group, and all groups differed significantly in their management domain (YH: −0.50 [−1.00, 0.00]; OH: −1.00 [−1.88, −0.50]; CKD : −1.50 [−2.50, −1.00], P < .001).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The CatQoL was validated for use in cats, and can be used as additional assessment parameter in clinical and research settings.
Treatment of Disseminated Aspergillosis with Posaconazole in 10 Dogs
Authors: Corrigan V.K. , Legendre A.M. , Wheat L.J. , Mullis R. , Johnson B. , Bemis D.A. , Cepero L.
Published: November 2015

Background

Few effective treatments for disseminated Aspergillus infections in dogs are available. Posaconazole has potent and broad‐spectrum activity against Aspergillus spp., but its use has not yet been sufficiently evaluated in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of posaconazole for the treatment of naturally occurring disseminated Aspergillus infections in dogs.

Animals

Ten client‐owned dogs with disseminated aspergillosis.

Methods

Prospective, nonrandomized, noncontrolled study with posaconazole administered to dogs at dosage of 5 mg/kg PO q12h. The primary veterinarian or the veterinary specialist caring for the dogs provided patient data.

Results

The treatment response for dogs with disseminated disease while receiving posaconazole was defined as clinical remission (n = 4) and clinical improvement (n = 6). There was a high rate of relapse during treatment or after cessation of treatment in both groups, and most dogs died or were euthanized due to progressive disease. Excluding 1 dog concurrently treated with terbinafine that remains alive 5 years after diagnosis, the mean survival time for dogs was 241 days (range 44–516 days). Three other dogs lived >1 year after starting treatment. No clinically relevant adverse events or increases in serum liver enzyme activity occurred during treatment with posaconazole.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Posaconazole appears to be safe and well‐tolerated for treatment of disseminated Aspergillus infections in dogs. Long‐term survival >1 year is possible with prolonged treatment, but relapse is common.
Epiphyte assemblages of the Mediterranean seagrassPosidonia oceanica: an overview
Authors: Piazzi Luigi , Balata David , Ceccherelli Giulia
Published: November 2015

This paper reviews the main studies dealing with epiphytes of both leaves and rhizomes ofPosidonia oceanica, the main seagrass found in the Mediterranean Sea. A total of 660 epiphyte species has been recorded, including 430 on leaves and 437 on rhizomes. Of these, 205 are Rhodophyta, 59 Ochrophyta, 43 Chlorophyta, 78 Porifera, 82 Cnidaria, 19 Annelida, 155 Bryozoa and 19 Tunicata. The epiphyte assemblages demonstrate a gradient of dissimilarity from west to east, with the eastern area being the most unlike the others. The differences can be attributed mostly to rare species that differ amongst the Mediterranean regions. Many of the dominant taxa have been found in all meadows studied. Data concerning species composition, abundance, and patterns of spatial and temporal variability are summarized, and biotic and abiotic factors controlling the structure of assemblages are discussed. Responses of epiphyte assemblages to anthropogenic stressors, such as nutrient enrichment and biological invasions, are discussed in relation to the use of epiphytes as ecological indicators.
Diversity patterns of free‐living marine nematodes in the southwest continental shelf off Bay of Bengal and their link to abiotic variables
Authors: Ansari Kapuli Gani Mohamed Thameemul , Lyla Somasundharanair , Ajmal Khan Syed , Bhadury Punyasloke
Published: November 2015

Marine sediments in continental shelf ecosystems harbor a rich biodiversity of benthic communities. In this study, the spatial and temporal diversity and community assemblages of free‐living marine nematodes were studied by sampling at six depths and over 3 years from the southwest continental shelf off Bay of Bengal, one of the least explored tropical shelf ecosystems. The dominant marine nematode species were related with abiotic variables as part of this study. The effects of sediment granulometry generally decreased with increasing depth and the highest nematode density and species diversity were recorded on coarse sand (shallower depths). Multivariate analysis of the nematode community data showed that community structure differed significantly among depths as well as among years. Statistical analyses showed significant correlations between the nematode community and abiotic variables. Sediment texture, organic matter, water pressure and depth profile were crucial factors for determining diversity, vertical profile and feeding types of the nematode community. Other environmental factors, including anthropogenic pressure, did not have an effect on nematode diversity except for the presence of some tolerant species (Metachromadora spp., Sabatieria spp. and Siplophorella sp.). This study represents a baseline of knowledge of free‐living marine nematode communities that can be used in the future to compare nematode assemblages from temperate shelf ecosystems.
Association of HLA‐DR/DQ alleles and haplotypes with nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Ramanathan Aravind Selvin Kumar , Senguttuvan Prabha , Chinniah Rathika , Vijayan Murali , Thirunavukkarasu Manikandan , Raju Kamaraj , Mani Dhivakar , Ravi Padma Malini , Rajendran Padmaraj , Krishnan Jeyaram Illiayaraja , Karuppiah Balakrishnan
Published: November 2015

Background

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a debilitating renal problem in children resulting from an interaction between environmental and genetic factors including human leukocyte antigen genes (HLA). The aim of this work was to study the probable link between HLA alleles/haplotypes and NS in south India.

Methods

HLA DRB1*/DQB1* alleles were genotyped in 183 NS (76 steroid sensitive‐SSNS; 107 steroid resistant‐SRNS) and paediatric healthy controls (PHCs; n = 91) using polymerase chain reaction‐sequence specific primers (PCR‐SSP). HLA‐A/‐B genotyping was performed for patients (n = 70) positive for DRB1*07‐DQB1*02 haplotype to identify four locus extended haplotype.

Results

The following alleles and haplotypes were strongly associated with NS (P < 0.05 as significant): DRB1*07 (SSNS, P < 7.98 × 10‐6; SRNS, P < 0.008), DQB1*02 (SSNS, P < 3.99 × 10‐6; SRNS, P < 0.002), DRB1*07‐DQB1*02 (SSNS, P < 1.32 × 10‐4; SRNS, P < 0.010), DRB1*07‐DQB1*0301,0304 (DQ7) (SSNS, P < 0.001) and DRB1*03‐DQB1*02 (SRNS, P < 0.048). Protective associations were observed for alleles DRB1*10 (SRNS, P < 0.013), DQB1*05 (SSNS, P < 4.34 × 10‐6; SRNS, P < 0.01), DQB1*06 (SSNS, P < 0.003), and haplotypes DRB1*10‐DQB1*06 (SSNS, P < 0.046; SRNS, P < 0.032) and DRB1*15‐DQB1*05 (SSNS, P < 0.018). HLA‐A/‐B typing of 70 NS cases with two locus haplotype DRB1*07‐DQB1*02 (70/183; 38.25%) revealed the presence of an extended haplotype ‘A*03‐B*07‐DRB1*07‐DQB1*02’ (n = 35; 50%).

Conclusion

Our study revealed strong susceptible association of DRB1*07 with SRNS and DQB1*02 with SSNS. A gender predominant protective association was observed for DRB1*10 with SRNS females; DQB1*05 with SSNS and SRNS males. Further, the study documented the presence of an extended haplotype and pleiotropic action of DRB1*/DQB1* alleles in immune‐mediated aetiology of NS in south India.
A quality improvement project to reduce the intraoperative use of single‐dose fentanyl vials across multiple patients in a pediatric institution
Authors: Buck David , Subramanyam Rajeev , Varughese Anna
Published: November 2015

Objective

The use of a single‐dose vial across multiple patients presents a risk to sterility and is against CDC guidelines. We initiated a quality improvement (QI) project to reduce the intraoperative use of single‐dose vials of fentanyl across multiple patients at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC).

Methods

The initial step of the improvement project was the development of a Key Driver Diagram. The diagram has the SMART aim of the project, key drivers inherent to the process we are trying to improve, and specific interventions targeting the key drivers. The number of patients each week receiving an IV dose of fentanyl, from a vial previously accessed for another patient was tracked in a high turnover operating room (OR). The improvement model used was based on the concept of building Plan–Do–Study–Act (PDSA) cycles. Tests of change included provider education, provision of an increased number of fentanyl vials, alternate wasting processes, and provision of single‐use fentanyl syringes by the pharmacy.

Results

Prior to initiation of this project, it was common for a single fentanyl vial to be accessed for multiple patients. Our data showed an average percentage of failures of just over 50%. During the end of the project, after 7 months, the mean percentage failures had dropped to 5%. Preparation of 20 mcg single‐use fentanyl syringes by pharmacy, combined with education of providers on appropriate use, was successful in reducing failures to below our goal of 25%.

Conclusions

Appropriately sized fentanyl syringes prepared by pharmacy, education on correct use of single‐dose vials, and reminders in the OR, reduced the percentage of patients receiving a dose of fentanyl from a vial previously accessed for another patient in a high‐volume otolaryngology room.
Supplementation of Slow‐Release Melatonin Improves Recovery of Ovarian Cyclicity and Conception in Summer Anoestrous Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Kumar A , Mehrotra S , Singh G , Maurya VP , Narayanan K , Mahla AS , Chaudhari RK , Singh M , Soni YK , Kumawat BL , Dabas SK , Srivastava N
Published: November 2015

Contents

The role of melatonin as a protective neurohormone against restoring cyclicity in summer anoestrous animals in photoperiod species has gained wider acceptance. This study was designed to uncover the evidence the slow‐release melatonin (MLT) has on initiation of ovarian cyclicity and conception rate (CR) in summer anoestrous buffaloes. Thus, buffaloes diagnosed as summer anoestrous (absence of overt signs of oestrus, concurrent rectal examination and radioimmunoassay for serum progesterone at 10 days interval) were grouped as untreated (Group I, sterilized corn oil, n = 8) and treated (Group II, single subcutaneous injection of MLT @18 mg/50 kg bwt in sterilized corn oil, n = 20). Animals treated and detected in oestrus were artificially inseminated (AI) followed by division into Group III (second dose of MLT on 5th day post‐AI, n = 8) and Group IV (no melatonin administration, n = 10). Blood samples were collected at 4 days interval for estimation of serum MLT, progesterone and oestrogen using radioimmunoassay kit. Mean oestrous induction rate (OIR), oestrous induction interval (OII), interoestrous interval (IOI) and CR were estimated. Compared to control, concentration of melatonin was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in treated group ranging from 14.34 ± 1.72 to 412.31 ± 14.47 pg/ml whereas other two hormones did not show any concentration difference. Melatonin‐administered buffaloes showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher (90%) OIR with OII of 18.06 ± 1.57 days. Results showed improvement in conception rate in buffaloes administered with post‐insemination melatonin. It can be concluded from the study that slow‐release melatonin supplementation restored cyclicity in summer anoestrous animals resulting in improvement in conception rate in buffaloes.
Elastic wave induced by friction as a signature of human skin ageing and gender effect
Authors: Djaghloul M. , Morizot F. , Zahouani H.
Published: November 2015

Background

In this work, we propose an innovative approach based on a rotary tribometer coupled with laser velocimetry for measuring the elastic wave propagation on the skin.

Methods

The method is based on a dynamic contact with the control of the normal force (Fn), the contact length and speed. During the test a quantification of the friction force is produced.

The elastic wave generated by friction is measured at the surface of the skin 35 mm from the source of friction exciter. In order to quantify the spectral range and the energy property of the wave generated, we have used laser velocimetry whose spot laser diameter is 120 μm, which samples the elastic wave propagation at a frequency which may reach 100 kHz. In this configuration, the speaker is the friction exciter and the listener the laser velocimetry. In order to perform non‐invasive friction tests, the normal stress has been set to 0.3 N and the rotary velocity to 3 revolutions per second, which involves a sliding velocity of 63 mm/s.

Results and Conclusions

This newly developed innovative tribometer has been used for the analysis of the elastic wave propagation induced by friction on human skin during chronological ageing and gender effect. Measurements in vivo have been made on 60 healthy men and women volunteers, aged from 25 to 70. The results concerning the energy of the elastic wave signature induced by friction show a clear difference between the younger and older groups in the range of a low band of frequencies (0–200 Hz). The gender effect was marked by a 20% decrease in the energy of elastic wave propagation in the female group.
Acylated monogalactosyl diacylglycerol: prevalence in the plant kingdom and identification of an enzyme catalyzing galactolipid head group acylation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Nilsson Anders K. , Johansson Oskar N. , Fahlberg Per , Kommuri Murali , Töpel Mats , Bodin Lovisa J. , Sikora Per , Modarres Masoomeh , Ekengren Sophia , Nguyen Chi T. , Farmer Edward E. , Olsson Olof , Ellerström Mats , Andersson Mats X.
Published: November 2015

The lipid phase of the thylakoid membrane is mainly composed of the galactolipids mono‐ and digalactosyl diacylglycerol (MGDG and DGDG, respectively). It has been known since the late 1960s that MGDG can be acylated with a third fatty acid to the galactose head group (acyl‐MGDG) in plant leaf homogenates. In certain brassicaceous plants like Arabidopsis thaliana, the acyl‐MGDG frequently incorporates oxidized fatty acids in the form of the jasmonic acid precursor 12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid (OPDA). In the present study we further investigated the distribution of acylated and OPDA‐containing galactolipids in the plant kingdom. While acyl‐MGDG was found to be ubiquitous in green tissue of plants ranging from non‐vascular plants to angiosperms, OPDA‐containing galactolipids were only present in plants from a few genera. A candidate protein responsible for the acyl transfer was identified in Avena sativa (oat) leaf tissue using biochemical fractionation and proteomics. Knockout of the orthologous gene in A. thaliana resulted in an almost total elimination of the ability to form both non‐oxidized and OPDA‐containing acyl‐MGDG. In addition, heterologous expression of the A. thaliana gene in E. coli demonstrated that the protein catalyzed acylation of MGDG. We thus demonstrate that a phylogenetically conserved enzyme is responsible for the accumulation of acyl‐MGDG in A. thaliana. The activity of this enzyme in vivo is strongly enhanced by freezing damage and the hypersensitive response.
Readily Accessible Multiplane Microscopy: 3D Tracking the HIV‐1 Genome in Living Cells
Authors: Itano Michelle S. , Bleck Marina , Johnson Daniel S. , Simon Sanford M.
Published: November 2015

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1 infection and the associated disease AIDS are a major cause of human death worldwide with no vaccine or cure available. The trafficking of HIV‐1 RNAs from sites of synthesis in the nucleus, through the cytoplasm, to sites of assembly at the plasma membrane are critical steps in HIV‐1 viral replication, but are not well characterized. Here we present a broadly accessible microscopy method that captures multiple focal planes simultaneously, which allows us to image the trafficking of HIV‐1 genomic RNAs with high precision. This method utilizes a customization of a commercial multichannel emission splitter that enables high‐resolution 3D imaging with single‐macromolecule sensitivity. We show with high temporal and spatial resolution that HIV‐1 genomic RNAs are most mobile in the cytosol, and undergo confined mobility at sites along the nuclear envelope and in the nucleus and nucleolus. These provide important insights regarding the mechanism by which the HIV‐1 RNA genome is transported to the sites of assembly of nascent virions.
Phosphorylation of αSNAP is Required for Secretory Organelle Biogenesis in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Stewart Rebecca J. , Ferguson David J. P. , Whitehead Lachlan , Bradin Clare H. , Wu Hong J. , Tonkin Christopher J.
Published: November 2015

The authors show that phosphorylation of αSNAP, a protein required for turnover of SNARE complexes after vesicle fusion, is important for secretory pathway protein trafficking and organelle biogenesis in Toxoplasma gondii. This work therefore highlights a potential mechanism of regulation of secretory pathway biogenesis during growth in this important pathogen.
How Giraffes Drink
Authors: Binder P.-M. , Taylor Dale L.
Published: November 2015

Giraffes face unique challenges for drinking due to their long necks. In this article we use evidence from videos, size estimates, and elementary fluid mechanics to make a strong case for a plunger pump mechanism moving water up from their lips to their shoulders.
High school seniors by race and SES
Authors: White Susan C.
Published: November 2015

In September, we looked at participation in high school physics by race and ethnicity, and we have provided two different views of physics in high school by socioeconomic status (SES). This month, we consider the proportion of seniors attending schools by race and SES. About half of the Hispanics and almost 45% of the African-Americans among high school seniors in 2013 attended a school where the students were determined to be “worse off” economically than their peers in the local area. The converse is true for Asians and Whites with the vast majority attending schools where students are seen as “better off” than their peers.
What We Don't Understand, We Explain to Each Other
Authors: Pines David
Published: November 2015

“What we don't understand, we explain to each other” was Robert Oppenheimer's 1948 description of theoretical physics as a profession. Because the phrase connects research, teaching, and learning, it seemed the right approach for the talk I gave to the AAPT on receiving the 2013 J.D. Jackson Award for Excellence in Graduate Teaching, on which the present article is based. In what follows I describe how my experiences as a student, researcher, and teacher combined to shape the way I learn and teach physics, from my own courses to inventing and editing Frontiers in Physics, reshaping Reviews of Modern Physics, and experimenting with different approaches to communicating key concepts in physics.
My Favorite Exam Question
Authors: Styer Dan
Published: November 2015

My favorite exam question comes from the final exam in an introductory mechanics course: A rolling 31 ton railroad boxcar collides with a stationary flatcar. The coupling mechanism activates so the cars latch together and roll down the track attached. Of the initial kinetic energy, 38% dissipates as heat, sound, vibrations, mechanical deformation, and so forth. How much does the flatcar weigh?
A Computer-Controlled Classroom Model of an Atomic Force Microscope
Authors: Engstrom Tyler A. , Johnson Matthew M. , Eklund Peter C. , Russin Timothy J.
Published: November 2015

The concept of “seeing by feeling” as a way to circumvent limitations on sight is universal on the macroscopic scale—reading Braille, feeling one's way around a dark room, etc. The development of the atomic force microscope (AFM) in 1986 extended this concept to imaging in the nanoscale. While there are classroom demonstrations that use a tactile probe to map the topography or some other property of a sample, the rastering of the probe over the sample is manually controlled, which is both tedious and potentially inaccurate. Other groups have used simulation or tele-operation of an AFM probe. In this paper we describe a teaching AFM with complete computer control to map out topographic and magnetic properties of a “crystal” consisting of two-dimensional arrays of spherical marble “atoms.” Our AFM is well suited for lessons on the “Big Ideas of Nanoscale” such as tools and instrumentation, as well as a pre-teaching activity for groups with remote access AFM or mobile AFM. The principle of operation of our classroom AFM is the same as that of a real AFM, excepting the nature of the force between sample and probe.
The ‘Chocolate Experiment’ - A Demonstration of Radiation Absorption by Different Colored Surfaces
Authors: Fung Dennis
Published: November 2015

In the typical “cookbook” experiment comparing the radiation absorption rates of different colored surfaces, students' hands are commonly used as a measurement instrument to demonstrate that dull black and silvery surfaces are good and poor absorbers of radiation, respectively. However, college students are often skeptical about using their bare hands in this experiment because they learned in early science lessons that skin is not a reliable detector of heat transfer. Moreover, when the experiment is conducted in a school laboratory, it is often difficult for students to perceive the slight differences in heat transfer on the dull black and silvery aluminum leaves attached to their hands. Rather than replacing students' bare hands with such sophisticated apparatus as a data logger and temperature probe, I suggest using a simple (and delicious!) low-cost instrument, i.e., chocolate, which simply melts when it receives radiation.
Simple Model of a Rolling Water-Filled Bottle on an Inclined Ramp
Authors: Lin Shihao , Hu Naiwen , Yao Tianchen , Chu Charles , Babb Simona , Cohen Jenna , Sangiovanni Giana , Watt Summer , Weisman Danielle , Klep James , Walecki Wojciech J. , Walecki Eve S. , Walecki Peter S.
Published: November 2015

We investigate a water-filled bottle rolling down an incline and ask the following question: is a rolling bottle better described by a model ignoring all internal motion where the bottle is approximated by a material point sliding down an incline, or is it better described by a rigid solid cylinder rolling down the incline without skidding? The measurements presented here represent a special case of similar experiments described by K.A. Jackson et al. (see Ref. 1 and references within). There exists also a report by Kagan describing the motion of soda cans rolling on an incline. In our case we investigate motion of the fully filled bottle. We demonstrate that within accuracy of our experiment the motion of the bottle can be described by a simple “frictionless water” model. The analysis of the dynamics of the bodies sliding and rolling on a ramp is a standard component of introductory physics classes, and a required component of the Advanced Placement (AP) Physics curriculum.
The Expected but Well-Hidden EMF in the Jumping Wire Experiment and its Unexpected Role
Authors: Donoso G. , Ladera C. L.
Published: November 2015

As presented in physics textbooks, as well as in a few papers, the typical example of an induced motional electromotive force εmot = Blv consists of a conductive rod of length l frictionlessly sliding with speed v along parallel wires within an orthogonal and constant uniform magnetic field of magnitude B. End-of-chapter problems, variants of that sliding rod, are additionally posed in those textbooks. The horizontal jumping wire of length l carrying a current i that is tossed upward by a magnetic force, in a transverse horizontal magnetic field B, is an important variant, as evidenced by its popularity as a demonstration experiment (with numerous videos and blogs posted on the web). A simplistic account of the wire-jump experiment is often given exclusively in terms of the well-known magnetic force F = i l × B that propels the wire upward. The jumping wire is an eye-catching demonstration for both students and the public, and it indeed deserves to be analyzed in greater detail, since as shown below it hides fundamental and interesting physics, certainly much more than what the eye catches.
Introducing Earth's Orbital Eccentricity
Authors: Oostra Benjamin
Published: November 2015

Most students know that planetary orbits, including Earth's, are elliptical; that is Kepler's first law, and it is found in many science textbooks. But quite a few are mistaken about the details, thinking that the orbit is very eccentric, or that this effect is somehow responsible for the seasons. In fact, the Earth's orbital eccentricity is small, and its only effect on the seasons is their unequal durations. Here I show a pleasant way to guide students to the actual value of Earth's orbital eccentricity, starting from the durations of the four seasons. The date of perihelion is also found.
Simulating Gravity: Dark Matter and Gravitational Lensing in the Classroom
Authors: Ford Jes , Stang Jared , Anderson Catherine
Published: November 2015

Dark matter makes up most of the matter in the universe but very little of a standard introductory physics curriculum. Here we present our construction and use of a spandex sheet-style gravity simulator to qualitatively demonstrate two aspects of modern physics related to dark matter. First, we describe an activity in which students explore the dependence of orbital velocities on the central mass of a system, in a demonstration of how scientists first discovered dark matter. Second, we discuss the use of the gravity simulator as a visualization of gravitational lensing, a current astronomical technique for mapping dark matter in the sky. After providing the necessary background for the phenomena of interest, we describe our construction of the gravity simulator and detail our facilitation of these two activities. Together, these activities provide a conceptual visualization of gravitational phenomena related to indirect detection techniques for studying dark matter.
Angular velocity direct measurement and moment of inertia calculation of a rigid body using a smartphone
Authors: Patrinopoulos Matthaios , Kefalis Chrysovalantis
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we focus on smartphones as experimental tools; specifically we use the gyroscope sensor of a smartphone to study the turning motion of a rigid body. Taking into consideration recent work concerning that topic, we try to use the gyroscope sensor in studying the complex motion of a rolling cylinder on a slope.
What I wish I had in my stockroom
Authors: Sampere Samuel
Published: November 2015

Most new teachers walk into their new classroom territory and find at least some equipment. Perhaps there are items there that you don't recognize. One way to get those types of questions answered is to post a question and/or picture on the TAP-L (Teaching Apparatus List) listserv (see: http://www.pira-online.org for more information). Within a few short minutes, the sender will receive at least a couple of responses. But what if a new teacher walks into a totally empty prep room? Now that teacher is tasked with purchasing useful equipment, and we know that the opportunity for a similar acquisition in the near future is slim. So you better choose wisely! Whether my new stockroom is well equipped or completely empty, I would make sure to have the following six items in my arsenal.
Three-dimensional graphene/Pt nanoparticle composites as freestanding anode for enhancing performance of microbial fuel cells
Authors: Zhao Shenlong , Li Yuchen , Yin Huajie , Liu Zhouzhou , Luan Enxiao , Zhao Feng , Tang Zhiyong , Liu Shaoqin
Published: November 2015

A microbial fuel cell constructed with 3D freestanding graphene aerogel/platinum nanoparticles shows unprecedented performance.
Does the mismatch negativity operate on a consciously accessible memory trace?
Authors: Dykstra Andrew R. , Gutschalk Alexander
Published: November 2015

A change-related component of the auditory evoked response long thought to be preattentive and preconscious may actually require consciousness.
Selective targeting of the BRG/PB1 bromodomains impairs embryonic and trophoblast stem cell maintenance
Authors: Fedorov Oleg , Castex Josefina , Tallant Cynthia , Owen Dafydd R. , Martin Sarah , Aldeghi Matteo , Monteiro Octovia , Filippakopoulos Panagis , Picaud Sarah , Trzupek John D. , Gerstenberger Brian S. , Bountra Chas , Willmann Dominica , Wells Christopher , Philpott Martin , Rogers Catherine , Biggin Philip C. , Brennan Paul E. , Bunnage Mark E. , Schüle Roland , Günther Thomas , Knapp Stefan , Müller Susanne
Published: November 2015

PFI-3, a novel inhibitor targeting the bromodomains of essential components of the BAF/PBAF complex, affects the differentiation of ESC and TSC.
Multiferroicity and skyrmions carrying electric polarization in GaV
4
S
8
Authors: Ruff Eugen , Widmann Sebastian , Lunkenheimer Peter , Tsurkan Vladimir , Bordács Sandor , Kézsmárki Istvan , Loidl Alois
Published: November 2015

A zoo of multiferroic phases shows up in the lacunar spinel GaV
4
S
8
, including skyrmions carrying ferroelectric polarization.
Experimental discovery of a topological Weyl semimetal state in TaP
Authors: Xu Su-Yang , Belopolski Ilya , Sanchez Daniel S. , Zhang Chenglong , Chang Guoqing , Guo Cheng , Bian Guang , Yuan Zhujun , Lu Hong , Chang Tay-Rong , Shibayev Pavel P. , Prokopovych Mykhailo L. , Alidoust Nasser , Zheng Hao , Lee Chi-Cheng , Huang Shin-Ming , Sankar Raman , Chou Fangcheng , Hsu Chuang-Han , Jeng Horng-Tay , Bansil Arun , Neupert Titus , Strocov Vladimir N. , Lin Hsin , Jia Shuang , Hasan M. Zahid
Published: November 2015

Photoemission established tantalum phosphide as a Weyl semimetal, which hosts exotic Weyl fermion quasiparticles and Fermi arcs.
Pectin and Xyloglucan Influence the Attachment of Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes to Bacterial Cellulose-Derived Plant Cell Wall Models
Authors: Tan Michelle S. F. , Rahman Sadequr , Dykes Gary A.
Published: November 2015

Minimally processed fresh produce has been implicated as a major source of foodborne microbial pathogens globally. These pathogens must attach to the produce in order to be transmitted. Cut surfaces of produce that expose cell walls are particularly vulnerable. Little is known about the roles that different structural components (cellulose, pectin, and xyloglucan) of plant cell walls play in the attachment of foodborne bacterial pathogens. Using bacterial cellulose-derived plant cell wall models, we showed that the presence of pectin alone or xyloglucan alone affected the attachment of three
Salmonella enterica
strains (
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Enteritidis ATCC 13076,
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Typhimurium ATCC 14028, and
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
indica
M4) and
Listeria monocytogenes
ATCC 7644. In addition, we showed that this effect was modulated in the presence of both polysaccharides. Assays using pairwise combinations of
S.
Typhimurium ATCC 14028 and
L. monocytogenes
ATCC 7644 showed that bacterial attachment to all plant cell wall models was dependent on the characteristics of the individual bacterial strains and was not directly proportional to the initial concentration of the bacterial inoculum. This work showed that bacterial attachment was not determined directly by the plant cell wall model or bacterial physicochemical properties. We suggest that attachment of the
Salmonella
strains may be influenced by the effects of these polysaccharides on physical and structural properties of the plant cell wall model. Our findings improve the understanding of how
Salmonella enterica
and
Listeria monocytogenes
attach to plant cell walls, which may facilitate the development of better ways to prevent the attachment of these pathogens to such surfaces.
Identification of Putative Coffee Rust Mycoparasites via Single-Molecule DNA Sequencing of Infected Pustules
Authors: James Timothy Y. , Marino John A. , Perfecto Ivette , Vandermeer John
Published: November 2015

The interaction of crop pests with their natural enemies is a fundament to their control. Natural enemies of fungal pathogens of crops are poorly known relative to those of insect pests, despite the diversity of fungal pathogens and their economic importance. Currently, many regions across Latin America are experiencing unprecedented epidemics of coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix). Identification of natural enemies of coffee rust could aid in developing management strategies or in pinpointing species that could be used for biocontrol. In the present study, we characterized fungal communities associated with coffee rust lesions by single-molecule DNA sequencing of fungal rRNA gene bar codes from leaf discs (≈28 mm2) containing rust lesions and control discs with no rust lesions. The leaf disc communities were hyperdiverse in terms of fungi, with up to 69 operational taxonomic units (putative species) per control disc, and the diversity was only slightly reduced in rust-infected discs, with up to 63 putative species. However, geography had a greater influence on the fungal community than whether the disc was infected by coffee rust. Through comparisons between control and rust-infected leaf discs, as well as taxonomic criteria, we identified 15 putative mycoparasitic fungi. These fungi are concentrated in the fungal family Cordycipitaceae and the order Tremellales. These data emphasize the complexity of diverse fungi of unknown ecological function within a leaf that might influence plant disease epidemics or lead to the development of species for biocontrol of fungal disease.
Microbial Mat Communities along an Oxygen Gradient in a Perennially Ice-Covered Antarctic Lake
Authors: Jungblut Anne D. , Hawes Ian , Mackey Tyler J. , Krusor Megan , Doran Peter T. , Sumner Dawn Y. , Eisen Jonathan A. , Hillman Colin , Goroncy Alexander K.
Published: November 2015

Lake Fryxell is a perennially ice-covered lake in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica, with a sharp oxycline in a water column that is density stabilized by a gradient in salt concentration. Dissolved oxygen falls from 20 mg liter
−1
to undetectable over one vertical meter from 8.9- to 9.9-m depth. We provide the first description of the benthic mat community that falls within this oxygen gradient on the sloping floor of the lake, using a combination of micro- and macroscopic morphological descriptions, pigment analysis, and 16S rRNA gene bacterial community analysis. Our work focused on three macroscopic mat morphologies that were associated with different parts of the oxygen gradient: (i) “cuspate pinnacles” in the upper hyperoxic zone, which displayed complex topography and were dominated by phycoerythrin-rich cyanobacteria attributable to the genus
Leptolyngbya
and a diverse but sparse assemblage of pennate diatoms; (ii) a less topographically complex “ridge-pit” mat located immediately above the oxic-anoxic transition containing
Leptolyngbya
and an increasing abundance of diatoms; and (iii) flat prostrate mats in the upper anoxic zone, dominated by a green cyanobacterium phylogenetically identified as
Phormidium pseudopriestleyi
and a single diatom,
Diadesmis contenta
. Zonation of bacteria was by lake depth and by depth into individual mats. Deeper mats had higher abundances of bacteriochlorophylls and anoxygenic phototrophs, including
Chlorobi
and
Chloroflexi
. This suggests that microbial communities form assemblages specific to niche-like locations. Mat morphologies, underpinned by cyanobacterial and diatom composition, are the result of local habitat conditions likely defined by irradiance and oxygen and sulfide concentrations.
Regulation of the Alkane Hydroxylase CYP153 Gene in a Gram-Positive Alkane-Degrading Bacterium, Dietzia sp. Strain DQ12-45-1b
Authors: Liang Jie-Liang , JiangYang Jing-Hong , Nie Yong , Wu Xiao-Lei
Published: November 2015

CYP153, one of the most common medium-chain
n
-alkane hydroxylases belonging to the cytochrome P450 superfamily, is widely expressed in
n
-alkane-degrading bacteria. CYP153 is also thought to cooperate with AlkB in degrading various
n
-alkanes. However, the mechanisms regulating the expression of the protein remain largely unknown. In this paper, we studied CYP153 gene transcription regulation by the potential AraC family regulator (CypR) located upstream of the CYP153 gene cluster in a broad-spectrum
n
-alkane-degrading Gram-positive bacterium,
Dietzia
sp. strain DQ12-45-1b. We first identified the transcriptional start site and the promoter of the CYP153 gene cluster. Sequence alignment of upstream regions of CYP153 gene clusters revealed high conservation in the −10 and −35 regions in
Actinobacteria
. Further analysis of the β-galactosidase activity in the CYP153 gene promoter-
lacZ
fusion cell indicated that the CYP153 gene promoter was induced by
n
-alkanes comprised of 8 to 14 carbon atoms, but not by derived decanol and decanic acid. Moreover, we constructed a
cypR
mutant strain and found that the CYP153 gene promoter activities and CYP153 gene transcriptional levels in the mutant strain were depressed compared with those in the wild-type strain in the presence of
n
-alkanes, suggesting that CypR served as an activator for the CYP153 gene promoter. By comparing CYP153 gene arrangements in
Actinobacteria
and
Proteobacteria
, we found that the AraC family regulator is ubiquitously located upstream of the CYP153 gene, suggesting its universal regulatory role in CYP153 gene transcription. We further hypothesize that the observed mode of CYP153 gene regulation is shared by many
Actinobacteria
.
Intraspecific Variation in Microbial Symbiont Communities of the Sun Sponge, Hymeniacidonheliophila, from Intertidal and Subtidal Habitats
Authors: Weigel Brooke L. , Erwin Patrick M.
Published: November 2015

Sponges host diverse and complex communities of microbial symbionts that display a high degree of host specificity. The microbiomes of conspecific sponges are relatively constant, even across distant locations, yet few studies have directly examined the influence of abiotic factors on intraspecific variation in sponge microbial community structure. The contrast between intertidal and subtidal environments is an ideal system to assess the effect of environmental variation on sponge-microbe symbioses, producing two drastically different environments on a small spatial scale. Here, we characterized the microbial communities of individual intertidal and subtidal
Hymeniacidon
heliophila
sponges, ambient seawater, and sediment from a North Carolina oyster reef habitat by partial (Illumina sequencing) and nearly full-length (clone libraries) 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses. Clone library sequences were compared to
H. heliophila
symbiont communities from the Gulf of Mexico and Brazil, revealing strong host specificity of dominant symbiont taxa across expansive geographic distances. Sediment and seawater samples yielded clearly distinct microbial communities from those found in
H. heliophila
. Despite the close proximity of the sponges sampled, significant differences between subtidal and intertidal sponges in the diversity, structure, and composition of their microbial communities were detected. Differences were driven by changes in the relative abundance of a few dominant microbial symbiont taxa, as well as the presence or absence of numerous rare microbial taxa. These findings suggest that extreme abiotic fluctuations, such as periodic air exposure in intertidal habitats, can drive intraspecific differences in complex host-microbe symbioses.
Survival and Transfer of Murine Norovirus within a Hydroponic System during Kale and Mustard Microgreen Harvesting
Authors: Wang Qing , Kniel Kalmia E.
Published: November 2015

Hydroponically grown microgreens are gaining in popularity, but there is a lack of information pertaining to their microbiological safety. The potential risks associated with virus contamination of crops within a hydroponic system have not been studied to date. Here a human norovirus (huNoV) surrogate (murine norovirus [MNV]) was evaluated for its ability to become internalized from roots to edible tissues of microgreens. Subsequently, virus survival in recirculated water without adequate disinfection was assessed. Kale and mustard seeds were grown on hydroponic pads (for 7 days with harvest at days 8 to 12), edible tissues (10 g) were cut 1 cm above the pads, and corresponding pieces (4 cm by 4 cm) of pads containing only roots were collected separately. Samples were collected from a newly contaminated system (recirculated water inoculated with ∼3 log PFU/ml MNV on day 8) and from a previously contaminated system. (A contaminated system without adequate disinfection or further inoculation was used for production of another set of microgreens.) Viral titers and RNA copies were quantified by plaque assay and real-time reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. The behaviors of MNV in kale and mustard microgreens were similar (
P
> 0.05). MNV was detected in edible tissues and roots after 2 h postinoculation, and the levels were generally stable during the first 12 h. Relatively low levels (∼2.5 to ∼1.5 log PFU/sample of both edible tissues and roots) of infectious viruses were found with a decreasing trend over time from harvest days 8 to 12. However, the levels of viral RNA present were higher and consistently stable (∼4.0 to ∼5.5 log copies/sample). Recirculated water maintained relatively high levels of infectious MNV over the period of harvest, from 3.54 to 2.73 log PFU/ml. Importantly, cross-contamination occurred easily; MNV remained infectious in previously contaminated hydroponic systems for up to 12 days (2.26 to 1.00 PFU/ml), and MNV was detected in both edible tissues and roots. Here we see that viruses can be recirculated in water, even after an initial contamination event is removed, taken up through the roots of microgreens, and transferred to edible tissues. The ease of product contamination shown here reinforces the need for proper sanitation.
Host Genetic Control of the Microbiota Mediates the Drosophila Nutritional Phenotype
Authors: Chaston John M. , Dobson Adam J. , Newell Peter D. , Douglas Angela E.
Published: November 2015

A wealth of studies has demonstrated that resident microorganisms (microbiota) influence the pattern of nutrient allocation to animal protein and energy stores, but it is unclear how the effects of the microbiota interact with other determinants of animal nutrition, including animal genetic factors and diet. Here, we demonstrate that members of the gut microbiota in
Drosophila melanogaster
mediate the effect of certain animal genetic determinants on an important nutritional trait, triglyceride (lipid) content. Parallel analysis of the taxonomic composition of the associated bacterial community and host nutritional indices (glucose, glycogen, triglyceride, and protein contents) in multiple
Drosophila
genotypes revealed significant associations between the abundance of certain microbial taxa, especially
Acetobacteraceae
and
Xanthamonadaceae
, and host nutritional phenotype. By a genome-wide association study of
Drosophila
lines colonized with a defined microbiota, multiple host genes were statistically associated with the abundance of one bacterium,
Acetobacter tropicalis
. Experiments using mutant
Drosophila
validated the genetic association evidence and reveal that host genetic control of microbiota abundance affects the nutritional status of the flies. These data indicate that the abundance of the resident microbiota is influenced by host genotype, with consequent effects on nutrient allocation patterns, demonstrating that host genetic control of the microbiome contributes to the genotype-phenotype relationship of the animal host.
Protective Effects of Electroacupuncture at Lr3 on Cardiac Hypertrophy and Apoptosis in Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Chang Lee Shu-Nu , Ho Tsung-Jung , Shibu Marthandam Asokan , Day Cecilia Hsuan , Viswanadha Vijaya Padma , Lai Chao-Hung , Chen Yi-Li , Hsieh Dennis Jine-Yuan , Chen Yueh-Sheng , Huang Chih-Yang
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at LR3 on blood pressure (BP) and cardiovascular remodelling and hypertrophy in male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).

Methods

Healthy Wistar-Kyoto rats were used as normotensive controls (control group, n=9). SHRs either remained untreated (SHR group, n=9) or received EA treatment at LR3 (SHR+LR3 group, n=9) or a nearby non-acupuncture point (SHR+sham group, n=9) for 3 weeks. BP was measured on day 3 and day 19. Samples of left ventricle were stained with haematoxylin and eosin or subjected to terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP (deoxyuridine triphosphate) nick end labelling (TUNEL) to assess histology and apoptosis, respectively (n=3 per group). Western blotting was used to determine the relative expression of antioxidants and molecular markers of detoxification capacity, cardiac hypertrophy, and apoptosis (n=5 per group).

Results

By day 3, the systolic BP, mean BP, and diastolic BP in the untreated SHRs increased from 169.5±14, 131.6±14, and 112.2±15 mm Hg (at baseline) to 179.6±1, 137.6±4, and 118.7±5 mm Hg, respectively (p<0.001 vs control group). BP in the SHR+LR3 rats was approximately 15 mm Hg lower than the SHR and SHR+sham groups (p<0.05). SHRs also exhibited cardiac hypertrophy (evident from histological and Western blot analyses). However, SHR+LR3 rats showed significant reductions in markers of cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, as well as elevated expression of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1).

Conclusions

EA at LR3 reduced BP and had positive effects on markers of cardiac apoptosis and hypertrophy in a rat model of hypertension. Thus, EA is a potentially promising intervention to treat cardiovascular remodelling secondary to hypertension.