bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal–epithelial transition of pancreatic cancer cells at perineural invasion sites is induced by Schwann cells
Authors: Fujii‐Nishimura Yoko , Yamazaki Ken , Masugi Yohei , Douguchi Junya , Kurebayashi Yutaka , Kubota Naoto , Ojima Hidenori , Kitago Minoru , Shinoda Masahiro , Hashiguchi Akinori , Sakamoto Michiie
Published: February 2018

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) promotes invasion and metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the importance of its reverse process, mesenchymal–epithelial transition (MET), for PDAC remains unclear. We aimed to characterize the histological finding “focal differentiation” in PDAC at perineural invasion sites in the context of MET and to investigate the role of Schwann cells in inducing tumor MET. Tumor differentiation and immunohistochemical expressions of E‐cadherin, SMAD3, and vimentin at perineural invasion sites were examined in 168 PDAC tissues. Four PDAC cell lines were co‐cultured with Schwann cells to investigate cell morphology, motility, or EMT‐related markers using immunocytochemistry and quantitative PCR. Of 168 tumors, 124 (74%) showed focal differentiation with enhanced E‐cadherin membrane expression (P < 0.001) and decreased nuclear accumulation of SMAD3 (P < 0.001). Among 115 PDACs harboring grade 1/2 tumor, tumors with focal differentiation showed worse survival compared to those without focal differentiation (P = 0.019). PDAC cells co‐cultured with Schwann cells demonstrated a sheet‐like appearance, increased E‐cadherin expression, decreased expressions of SMAD3 and vimentin, and reduced cell motility. In conclusion, MET‐like change is induced by Schwann cells, suggesting that Schwann cells contribute to PDAC colonization in pancreatic nerves through activating the MET machinery inside tumor cells in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment.
After the White House: The Politics of the Postpresidency
Authors: Jacobs Nicholas F.
Published: February 2018

As independent elder statesmen, former presidents command a unique authority and widespread ambitions. But as the experiences of Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower reveal, postpresidential goals are often in conflict with one another. Both men remained active and were forced to speak out on national issues they tried to ignore. Both were also adamant in condemning their presidential successors on policy, and as senior party officials helped to build their party organizations after leaving office. To the extent that they were successful, both relied on the peculiar form of political capital accrued in office, but they were often unable to escape the roles they carved out during their respective tenures. Truman's and Eisenhower's postpresidencies therefore suggest that despite lacking institutional power, ex‐presidents can succeed in leveraging existing political capital to safeguard their legacies and protect the institutional reputation of the presidency.
Vertical Variation of Lead Content in Sediment Collected from Man‐made Tamagawa Dam Lake in Akita Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Pham Quyen M. , Ishiyama Daizo , Sato Hinako , Ogawa Yasumasa
Published: February 2018

Alternation layered lake sediment that had accumulated over a period of 22 years, from 1990 to 2012, was collected from the Tamagawa Dam Lake, which is located in the northeastern part of Akita Prefecture. The lake water is acidified (pH = 4.1) by the inflow of high‐acidic thermal water (pH = 1.2) from the Obuki Hot Spring, the main hot spring in the Tamagawa Hot Spring area. The vertical variations in Si, Al, Fe, Ti, and Pb contents of the sediment were determined by XRF, EPMA, and LA‐ICP‐MS in order to clarify the sedimentation processes of the lake sediment. The layers consisting of the sediment could be mostly classified into three types: dark brown, yellowish brown, and reddish layers. The contents of Si, Al, Fe, and Ti corresponded to the variation in color of each layer in the sample. Based on the Si, Al, and Fe contents in the sediment of Tamagawa Dam Lake, the sources of these elements were classified as detrital origin in dark brown and yellowish brown layers (Si, Al, and Ti) and chemical precipitate origin in reddish layers (Fe). Detrital components were derived from volcanic rocks in the watershed of Tamagawa Dam Lake. The variation of Pb content did not accord with the color of layers. The content of Pb in the sediment of Tamagawa Dam Lake ranges from 45 to 522 ppm. The vertical variation of Pb content in sediment corresponded to the temporal variation of Pb content in thermal water from the Obuki Hot Spring from 1990 to 2012. A large influence of hydrothermal activity of the Tamagawa Hot Spring on the vertical distribution of Pb was found during the active period of the Obuki Hot Spring, resulting in high Pb content within layers at 5–8 cm from the bottom of the sample. T‐Fe2O3‐rich reddish layers were also found in this range. Therefore, it is assumed that T‐Fe2O3 and Pb originated from Obuki Hot Spring and precipitated in Tamagawa Dam Lake. However, no correlation was found between T‐Fe2O3 and Pb contents for any of the dark brown, yellowish brown, and reddish layers. Some layers with high Pb content were also found to have high SiO2 and Al2O3 contents. These findings indicate that there are several possibilities for the sedimentation process of Pb. The sedimentation of Pb as well as that of T‐Fe2O3 in Tamagawa Dam Lake provides a good example of the accumulation of elements by chemical precipitation away from the source of elements.
Change from tide‐influenced deltas in a regression‐dominated set of sequences to tide‐dominated estuaries in a transgression‐dominated sequence set, East China Sea Shelf Basin
Authors: Li Shunli , Yu Xinghe , Steel Ronald , Zhu Xiaomin , Li Shengli , Cao Bing , Hou Guowei
Published: February 2018

The East China Sea Shelf Basin was a back‐arc basin located at the active continental margin of the western Philippine Sea Plate. This study explores facies and architectural changes from tide‐influenced deltas to tide‐dominated estuaries in transgressive–regressive cycles, as well as their controlling factors. Cores, wireline well‐logs and seismic data allow the sedimentary architectures and models of the depositional systems to be reconstructed. In the Xihu Depression of the East China Sea Shelf Basin, the stratigraphic sequences of the Eocene Pinghu Formation are interpreted to be dominated by repeated phases of deltaic progradation, but with intervening transgressive phases only thinly developed as bioturbated, open‐marine shelf deposits. The sequences of the overlying Oligocene Huagang Formation, in contrast, are interpreted as stacked, tide‐dominated estuary units, alternating with only poorly preserved regressive half‐cycles because of repeated, strong estuary down‐cutting. The intervening unconformity in the succession corresponds to the Yuquan tectonic movements, which triggered a change from extensional to compressional settings in the Xihu Depression. In the Late Eocene, extension of the Xihu Depression led to moderately high rates of subsidence (163 m Ma−1), and short‐term sea‐level falls led to multiple phases of deltaic progradations. After the Yuquan Movement, Early Oligocene compression brought overall lower rates of subsidence (110 m Ma−1), as well as sea‐level rise and stacked estuary development with significant tidal influence in the infill. The interaction of tectonics, sea‐level change and sediment supply determined the nature of the depositional systems on the shelf during the entire period, whereas the sedimentary processes were key to reworking and shaping the facies distribution, geomorphology and architectures in the back‐arc basin. This research provides an insight into spatial and temporal characterization of deltaic and estuarine systems, contributing to a better understanding of the mechanisms controlling a change in dominant coastline type, despite continued strong tidal influence.
A social network approach to particles in Singapore English
Authors: BOTHA WERNER
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the findings of research on the use of particles in the vernacular speech of university students in Singapore, with particular reference to language variation and how meaningful social information is conveyed through the use of such particles. One key argument here is that the particles may be used to indicate speaker identity at the individual level, and across the Singapore speech community. This study draws on an adapted form of social network theory, and uses vernacular data to capture the dynamics underlying particle variation and therole these play in the construction of ‘Singapore English’.
Progressive recruitment of contralesional cortico‐reticulospinal pathways drives motor impairment post stroke
Authors: McPherson Jacob G. , Chen Albert , Ellis Michael D. , Yao Jun , Heckman C. J. , Dewald Julius P. A.
Published: February 2018

Key points

Activation of the shoulder abductor muscles in the arm opposite a unilateral brain injury causes involuntary increases in elbow, wrist and finger flexion in the same arm, a phenomenon referred to as the flexion synergy.

It has been proposed that flexion synergy expression is related to reduced output from ipsilesional motor cortex and corticospinal pathways.

In this human subjects study, we provide evidence that the magnitude of flexion synergy expression is instead related to a progressive, task‐dependent recruitment of contralesional cortex.

We also provide evidence that recruitment of contralesional cortex may induce excessive activation of ipsilateral reticulospinal descending motor pathways that cannot produce discrete movements, leading to flexion synergy expression.

We interpret these findings as an adaptive strategy that preserves low‐level motor control at the cost of fine motor control.

A hallmark of hemiparetic stroke is the loss of fine motor control in the contralesional arm and hand and the constraint to a grouped movement pattern known as the flexion synergy. In the flexion synergy, increasing shoulder abductor activation drives progressive, involuntary increases in elbow, wrist and finger flexion. The neural mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear. Here, across 25 adults with moderate to severe hemiparesis following chronic stroke and 18 adults without neurological injury, we test the overall hypothesis that two inter‐related mechanisms are necessary for flexion synergy expression: increased task‐dependent activation of the intact, contralesional cortex and recruitment of contralesional motor pathways via ipsilateral reticulospinal projections. First, we imaged brain activation in real time during reaching motions progressively constrained by flexion synergy expression. Using this approach, we found that cortical activity indeed shifts towards the contralesional hemisphere in direct proportion to the degree of shoulder abduction loading in the contralesional arm. We then leveraged the post‐stroke reemergence of a developmental brainstem reflex to show that anatomically diffuse reticulospinal motor pathways are active during synergy expression. We interpret this progressive recruitment of contralesional cortico‐reticulospinal pathways as an adaptive strategy that preserves low‐level motor control at the cost of fine motor control.
Reduced arterial vasodilatation in response to hypoxia impairs cerebral and peripheral oxygen delivery in hypertensive men
Authors: Fernandes Igor A. , Rocha Marcos P. , Campos Monique O. , Mattos João D. , Mansur Daniel E. , Rocha Helena N. M. , Terra Paulo A. C. , Garcia Vinícius P. , Rocha Natália G. , Secher Niels H. , Nóbrega Antonio C. L.
Published: February 2018

Key points

Hypoxaemia evokes a repertoire of homeostatic adjustments that maintain oxygen supply to organs and tissues including the brain and skeletal muscles.

Because hypertensive patients have impaired endothelial‐dependent vasodilatation and an increased sympathetic response to arterial oxygen desaturation, we investigated whether hypertension impairs isocapnic hypoxia‐induced cerebral and skeletal muscle hyperaemia to an extent that limits oxygen supply.

In middle‐aged hypertensive men, vertebral and femoral artery blood flow do not increase in response to isocapnic hypoxia, limiting brain and peripheral hyperaemia and oxygen supply.

Increased chemoreflex‐induced sympathetic activation impairs skeletal muscle perfusion and oxygen supply, whereas an attenuation of local vasodilatory signalling in the posterior cerebrovasculature reduced brain hyperperfusion of hypertensive middle‐aged men in response to isocapnic hypoxia.

The present study investigated whether hypertension impairs isocapnic hypoxia (IH)‐induced cerebral and skeletal muscle hyperaemia to an extent that limits oxygen supply. Oxygen saturation (oxymetry), mean arterial pressure (photoplethysmography) and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA; microneugraphy), as well as femoral artery (FA), internal carotid artery and vertebral artery (VA) blood flow (BF; Doppler ultrasound), were quantified in nine normotensive (NT) (aged 40 ± 11 years, systolic pressure 119 ± 7 mmHg and diastolic pressure 73 ± 6 mmHg) and nine hypertensive men (HT) (aged 44 ± 12 years, systolic pressure 152 ± 11 mmHg and diastolic pressure 90 ± 9 mmHg) during 5 min of normoxia (21% O2) and IH (10% O2). Total cerebral blood flow (tCBF), brain (CDO2) and leg (LDO2) oxygen delivery were estimated. IH provoked similar oxygen desaturation without changing mean arterial pressure. Internal carotid artery perfusion increased in both groups during IH. However, VA and FA BF only increased in NT. Thus, IH‐induced increase in tCBF was smaller in HT. CDO2 only increased in NT and LDO2 decreased in HT. Furthermore, IH evoked a greater increase in HT MSNA. Changes in MSNA were inversely related to FA BF, LDO2 and end‐tidal oxygen tension. In conclusion, hypertension disturbs regional and total cerebrovascular and peripheral responses to IH and consequently limits oxygen supply to the brain and skeletal muscle. Although increased chemoreflex‐induced sympathetic activation may explain impaired peripheral perfusion, attenuated vasodilatory signalling in the posterior cerebrovasculature appears to be responsible for the small increase in tCBF when HT were exposed to IH.
Quantification of organic materials by ion implantation
Authors: Zhou Chuanzhen , Stevie Fred A. , Smith Stephen C.
Published: February 2018

Secondary ion mass spectrometry was initially considered to be a semiquantitative technique because of as much as 5 orders of magnitude variation in secondary ion yields over the periodic table for oxygen and cesium bombardment. The use of ion implantation to create standards has made it possible to accurately quantify elements and isotopes in a wide range of inorganic materials. The development of new ion sources has extended depth profiling to organic materials. It is of interest to explore ion implantation to quantify elements and molecular species in organic substrates. It is unrealistic to ion implant an organic molecule. Even if the molecular species was formed into a charged beam, the species will disintegrate upon impact with the substrate. However, if the species of interest contains an element not present in the substrate, then it should be possible to implant that element into the substrate and make a quantitative determination. In recent work, the authors demonstrated quantification of the insecticides permethrin and deltamethrin in mosquito netting, which is high density polyethylene, by ion implantation of chlorine and bromine, respectively [C. Zhou, F. A. Stevie, and S. C. Smith, J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B 34, 03H107 (2016) and C. Zhou, F. A. Stevie, and S. C. Smith, J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B 35, 031802 (2017)]. The authors have now explored extension of this method to a nitrogen containing an insect growth regulator, pyriproxyfen, by ion implantation of nitrogen. The species 12C14N− was monitored because of high secondary ion yield as opposed to negligible yield for N−. Initial results show that nitrogen can be quantified, but the detection limit is insufficient to monitor this compound. The ion implantation approach may be applicable to other materials, and the use of minor abundance isotopes, such as 15N and 18O, should also be considered.
Remote acoustic detection of mechanical changes in a vibrating plate in an unknown reverberant environment
Authors: Flynn Tyler J. , Dowling David R.
Published: February 2018

Acoustic radiation from a vibrating mechanical structure subject to broadband forcing is inherently dependent on the structure's material, geometry, and boundary conditions. Remote measurements of radiated sound can be used to detect mechanical changes (i.e., defects) when compared to known baseline measurements from the same structure. However, proper determination of a structure's acoustic signature may not be possible in highly reverberant environments due to reverberation contamination. Herein, experimental results are presented for the remote acoustic detection of clamped-boundary defects in a nominally 30 × 30 × 0.3 cm aluminum plate in a reverberant environment. Synthetic Time Reversal (STR) is used to estimate the free-field acoustic signature of the plate from recordings made in a reverberant environment with a 15-element microphone array at signal-to-reverberation ratio levels of −7 to −13 dB in a 100 Hz to 2.0 kHz bandwidth. These reconstructed time domain signals are then cross-correlated with baseline measurements of a known fully-clamped plate and classified as either changed or unchanged. Using common classifier statistics, this approach to remote acoustic damage detection using STR is found to be superior to equivalent waveform correlation approaches based on unprocessed signals and conventional time-domain beamforming outputs.
The Effects of Rigid Scapular Taping on the Subacromial Space in Athletes With and Without Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Leong Hio Teng , Fu Siu Ngor
Published: February 2018

Context:Reduction of the subacromial space (SAS) during arm elevation may contribute to rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy. The effects of scapular taping on the SAS in athletes with and without RC tendinopathy are unknown.Objective:To investigate the immediate effects of scapular taping on the SAS in athletes with and without RC tendinopathy.Design:Randomized controlled study with repeated measures.Setting:University laboratory.Participants:A total of 43 male volleyball players (17 asymptomatic and 26 with RC tendinopathy, mean age = 22.9 [3.5] y) participated in the study.Intervention:Three scapular taping protocols—no taping (control), taping with tension (therapeutic taping), and taping without tension (sham taping).Main Outcome Measures:Ultrasound measurements of the SAS with the arm at 0° and 60° of shoulder abduction, and the change in the SAS between 0° and 60° of shoulder abduction (SAS0°–60°) were calculated.Results:Athletes with RC tendinopathy demonstrated larger SAS with therapeutic taping at 60° of shoulder abduction (6.9 [1.9] mm vs 5.8 [1.7] mm, mean difference = 1.1 mm, 95% confidence interval, −1.80 to −0.39,P = .002) when compared with the no taping condition. The tendinopathy group also showed less reduction in the SAS with therapeutic taping during SAS0°–60°(2.0 [1.4] mm vs 2.8 [1.4] mm,P = .02) when compared with the no taping condition. When tape was applied to the scapula in asymptomatic athletes, our results showed a relatively small increase in the SAS with therapeutic taping during arm resting at 0° of abduction when compared with the no taping condition (8.7 [0.9] mm vs 8.3 [0.8] mm, mean difference = 0.4 mm, 95% confidence interval, −0.71 to −0.11,P = .01).Conclusions:Athletes with RC tendinopathy demonstrated less reduction of the SAS with rigid scapular taping during early arm abduction. Such observation was not evidenced in asymptomatic athletes.
Microhemorrhage-associated tissue iron enhances the risk for
Aspergillus fumigatus
invasion in a mouse model of airway transplantation
Authors: Hsu Joe L. , Manouvakhova Olga V. , Clemons Karl V. , Inayathullah Mohammed , Tu Allen B. , Sobel Raymond A. , Tian Amy , Nazik Hasan , Pothineni Venkata R. , Pasupneti Shravani , Jiang Xinguo , Dhillon Gundeep S. , Bedi Harmeet , Rajadas Jayakumar , Haas Hubertus , Aurelian Laure , Stevens David A. , Nicolls Mark R.
Published: February 2018

Increased ferric iron in allografts triggers a switch in the growth of the mold
Aspergillus fumigatus
from a colonizing to an invasive phenotype.
High-throughput metabolomic analysis predicts mode of action of uncharacterized antimicrobial compounds
Authors: Zampieri Mattia , Szappanos Balazs , Buchieri Maria Virginia , Trauner Andrej , Piazza Ilaria , Picotti Paola , Gagneux Sébastien , Borrell Sonia , Gicquel Brigitte , Lelievre Joel , Papp Balazs , Sauer Uwe
Published: February 2018

The mode of action of new antimicrobial compounds can be predicted from changes in metabolome profiles in
Mycobacterium
.
Oncogenic JAK2
V617F
causes PD-L1 expression, mediating immune escape in myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Prestipino Alessandro , Emhardt Alica J. , Aumann Konrad , O’Sullivan David , Gorantla Sivahari P. , Duquesne Sandra , Melchinger Wolfgang , Braun Lukas , Vuckovic Slavica , Boerries Melanie , Busch Hauke , Halbach Sebastian , Pennisi Sandra , Poggio Teresa , Apostolova Petya , Veratti Pia , Hettich Michael , Niedermann Gabriele , Bartholomä Mark , Shoumariyeh Khalid , Jutzi Jonas S. , Wehrle Julius , Dierks Christine , Becker Heiko , Schmitt-Graeff Annette , Follo Marie , Pfeifer Dietmar , Rohr Jan , Fuchs Sebastian , Ehl Stephan , Hartl Frederike A. , Minguet Susana , Miething Cornelius , Heidel Florian H. , Kröger Nicolaus , Triviai Ioanna , Brummer Tilman , Finke Jürgen , Illert Anna L. , Ruggiero Eliana , Bonini Chiara , Duyster Justus , Pahl Heike L. , Lane Steven W. , Hill Geoffrey R. , Blazar Bruce R. , von Bubnoff Nikolas , Pearce Erika L. , Zeiser Robert
Published: February 2018

Oncogenic JAK mutation sensitizes myeloproliferative neoplasms to immune checkpoint inhibition.
Impact of Wastewater Treatment on the Prevalence of Integrons and the Genetic Diversity of Integron Gene Cassettes
Authors: An Xin-Li , Chen Qing-Lin , Zhu Dong , Zhu Yong-Guan , Gillings Michael R. , Su Jian-Qiang
Published: February 2018

The integron platform allows the acquisition, expression, and dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes within gene cassettes. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) contain abundant resistance genes; however, knowledge about the impacts of wastewater treatment on integrons and their gene cassettes is limited. In this study, by using clone library analysis and high-throughput sequencing, we investigated the abundance of class 1, 2, and 3 integrons and their corresponding gene cassettes in three urban WWTPs. Our results showed that class 1 integrons were most abundant in WWTPs and that wastewater treatment significantly reduced the abundance of all integrons. The WWTP influents harbored the highest diversity of class 1 integron gene cassettes, whereas class 3 integron gene cassettes exhibited highest diversity in activated sludge. Most of the gene cassette arrays detected in class 1 integrons were novel. Aminoglycoside, beta-lactam, and trimethoprim resistance genes were highly prevalent in class 1 integron gene cassettes, while class 3 integrons mainly carried beta-lactam resistance gene cassettes. A core class 1 integron resistance gene cassette pool persisted during wastewater treatment, implying that these resistance genes could have high potential to spread into environments through WWTPs. These data provide new insights into the impact of wastewater treatment on integron pools and highlight the need for surveillance of resistance genes within both class 1 and 3 integrons.

IMPORTANCEWastewater treatment plants represent a significant sink and transport medium for antibiotic resistance bacteria and genes spreading into environments. Integrons are important genetic elements involved in the evolution of antibiotic resistance. To better understand the impact of wastewater treatment on integrons and their gene cassette contexts, we conducted clone library construction and high-throughput sequencing to analyze gene cassette contexts for class 1 and class 3 integrons during the wastewater treatment process. This study comprehensively profiled the distribution of integrons and their gene cassettes (especially class 3 integrons) in influents, activated sludge, and effluents of conventional municipal wastewater treatment plants. We further demonstrated that while wastewater treatment significantly reduced the abundance of integrons and the diversity of associated gene cassettes, a large fraction of integrons persisted in wastewater effluents and were consequentially discharged into downstream natural environments.
Complete Genome Sequences of pLMA1 and pLMA7, Two Large Linear Plasmids of
Micrococcus
Strains Isolated from a High-Altitude Lake in Argentina
Authors: Dib Julian Rafael , Perez María Florencia , Schuldes Jörg , Poehlein Anja , Wagenknecht Martin , Farías María E. , Meinhardt Friedhelm , Daniel Rolf
Published: February 2018

The two linear plasmids pLMA1 (109,112 bp) and pLMA7 (82,075 bp) from
Micrococcus
strains were isolated from a high-altitude lake in the Argentinean Puna, sequenced, and annotated. These extrachromosomal elements are probably conjugative and harbor genes potentially involved in coping with the harsh conditions in such extreme environments.
Draft Genome Sequence of Micromonospora sp. Strain WMMA1996, a Marine Sponge-Associated Bacterium
Authors: Braun Doug R. , Chevrette Marc G. , Acharya Deepa D. , Currie Cameron R. , Rajski Scott R. , Bugni Tim S.
Published: February 2018

Micromonospora
sp. strain WMMA1996 was isolated in 2013 off the coast of the Florida Keys, United States, from a marine sponge as part of bacterial coculture-based drug discovery initiatives. Analysis of the ∼6.44-Mb genome reveals this microbe’s potential role in the discovery of new drugs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Sphingobacterium sp. Strain HMA12, Which Encodes Endo-β-
N
-Acetylglucosaminidases and Can Specifically Hydrolyze Fucose-Containing Oligosaccharides
Authors: Huang Yibo , Higuchi Yujiro , Mori Kazuki , Yamashita Ryoko , Okino Nozomu , Tashiro Kosuke , Takegawa Kaoru
Published: February 2018

The genome sequence of the soil bacterium
Sphingobacterium
sp. strain HMA12, the culture supernatant of which exhibited endo-β-
N
-acetylglucosaminidase (ENGase) activity, was examined for ENGase-encoding genes. Here, we report the characterization of new genes of ENGases, obtained by whole-genome shotgun sequencing, that are capable of specifically hydrolyzing fucose-containing oligosaccharides.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Actinobacillus succinogenes
GXAS137, a Highly Efficient Producer of Succinic Acid
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Shen Naikun , Qin Yan , Zhu Jing , Li Yi , Wu Jiafa , Jiang Ming-Guo
Published: February 2018

The bacterium
Actinobacillus succinogenes
GXAS137, an efficient producer of succinic acid, was isolated from bovine rumen in Nanning, Guangxi Province, China. Here, we present the 2.3-Mb genome assembly of this strain, which consists of 2,314,479 bp (G+C content of 44.89%) with a circular chromosome, 2,235 DNA coding sequences, 57 tRNAs, and 15 rRNAs.
Identification and Characterization of Clostridium difficile Sequence Type 37 Genotype by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization
–
Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Li Ruxin , Xiao Di , Yang Jing , Sun Suju , Kaplan Samuel , Li Zhirong , Niu Yanan , Qiang Cuixin , Zhai Yu , Wang Xiaoming , Zhao Xingzhen , Zhao Baoxin , Welker Martin , Pincus David H. , Jin Dazhi , Kamboj Mini , Zheng Guanghui , Zhang Guojun , Zhang Jianzhong , Tang Yi-Wei , Zhao Jianhong
Published: February 2018

Clostridium difficile
multilocus sequence type 37 (ST37), which mainly corresponds to ribotype 017, has been a dominant genotype circulating in China. In this study, we report the use of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to analyze and characterize 204
C. difficile
clinical isolates, including 49 ST37 and 155 non-ST37 isolates collected in China and other countries. The distributions of two major protein peaks (
m/z
3,242 and 3,286) were significantly different between ST37 and non-ST37 prototype strains and clinical isolates. This difference was reproducible when analysis was performed on different colonies in different runs. This finding was repeated and confirmed by both bioMérieux Vitek MS and Bruker Microflex LT systems on isolates recovered from a variety of geographic regions worldwide. The combination of the two peaks was present in 47 of 49 ST37 isolates, resulting in a sensitivity of 95.9%. In contrast, the peak combination was absent in 153 of 155 non-ST37 isolates, resulting in a specificity of 98.7%. Our results suggest that MALDI-TOF MS is a rapid and reliable tool to identify
C. difficile
genotype ST37. Work is in progress to characterize the two molecules having peaks at
m/z
3,242 and 3,286, which appear to be specific to
C. difficile
genotype ST37.
ADEPT: Achieve, Develop and Explore Programme for Trainees: enabling trainees in Northern Ireland to lead and improve
Authors: Donaghy Grainne , Hutton Rachael , Thompson Natalie , Reid James , Courtney Julia , Kerr Barry D , Gardiner Keith
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we describe the development of ADEPT, a pioneering project of collaboration in developing clinical leadership training in an apprenticeship model through 1 year out of programme for postgraduate medical trainees in Northern Ireland, involving Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency, the health and social care Leadership Centre and relevant host organisations.
Laboratory piping tests on fine gravel
Authors: Robbins Bryant A. , Stephens Isaac J. , Leavell Daniel A. , López-Soto Jamie F. , Montalvo-Bartolomei Axel M.
Published: February 2018

Results of an experimental study are presented in which the horizontal, critical gradient required for backward erosion piping of fine gravel was measured. A horizontal flume was constructed that allowed samples to be subjected to a vertical confining stress and unidirectional flow. The seepage gradient was increased gradually during each test, while the sample was monitored with an array of pore pressure transducers as well as visually through a clear acrylic top. The maximum, global gradient required during each test for piping to initiate and progress through the sample was recorded as the critical gradient. Sixteen tests were conducted. Values of the critical gradient were found to vary from a minimum of 0.30 in a loose state to a maximum of 0.51 in a dense state. Results of the experiments were compared with the predictive methods of Sellmeijer (original), Sellmeijer et al. (with multivariate adjustment), Schmertmann, Hoffmans, Lane, and Bligh. Only the method proposed by Schmertmann compared favorably with the experimental results.
Robustness of the Gaussian interferometric power in two optomechanical systems
Authors: Es-sahely Y. , El Qars J. , Daoud M. , Ahl Laamara R.
Published: February 2018

In two optomechanical systems, we study the robustness of the Gaussian interferometric power (GIP) against thermal noises. We use the Mancini et al. criterion to distinguish between entangled and separable states. Also, we employ the GIP to capture the nonclassical feature of the two studied systems beyond entanglement. We evaluate explicitly these two indicators of nonclassicality as functions of parameters characterizing the environment and the optomechanical systems (temperature, coupling, etc). We show that the inseparable quantum correlations decay strongly enough than those existing in separable states under thermal noises. On the other hand, when the separability criterion failed, the GIP remains almost constant and nonzero in the two systems even for high temperatures. This show that the GIP is an appropriate measure to capture the quantumness of correlations especially for systems coupled to environment strongly affected by thermal noises.
Electrochemistry, photoluminescence and theoretical study of the first 5,10,15,20-tetra-(4-(triazol-1-yl)phenyl) porphyridine complex
Authors: Yi Xiu-Guang , Chen Wen-Tong , Huang Jian-Gen , Zhang Ding-Wa , Wang Yin-Feng
Published: February 2018

The first 5,10,15,20-tetra-(4-(triazol-1-yl)phenyl) porphyridine complex, [Zn[Formula: see text]Cl[Formula: see text](5,10,15,20-tetra-(4-(triazol-1-yl)phenyl)porphyridine)][Formula: see text]Cl•[Formula: see text]H[Formula: see text]O•7[Formula: see text]H[Formula: see text]O (1) has been synthesized via solvothermal reactions and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Complex 1 is characteristic of a one-dimensional (1-D) structure, consisting of neutral [Zn[Formula: see text]Cl[Formula: see text](5,10,15,20-tetra-(4-(triazol-1-yl)phenyl) porphyridine)][Formula: see text] chains, isolated chloride ions and lattice water molecules. The zinc ion is in a four-coordinated tetrahedral geometry, and the porphyrin macrocycle is saddle-distorted. Photoluminescence measurement with solid-state samples discovers that it exhibits an emission in the green region of the light spectrum. Time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculation discovers that this emission can be attributed to the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text]* charge transfer. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurement reveals that it possesses an oxidation peak at 0.37 V.
A programmable programming language
Authors: Felleisen Matthias , Findler Robert Bruce , Flatt Matthew , Krishnamurthi Shriram , Barzilay Eli , McCarthy Jay , Tobin-Hochstadt Sam
Published: February 2018

As the software industry enters the era of language-oriented programming, it needs programmable programming languages.
Operational excellence in April Fools' pranks
Authors: Limoncelli Thomas A.
Published: February 2018

Being funny is serious work.
In pursuit of virtual life
Authors: Greengard Samuel
Published: February 2018

Scientists are simulating biological organisms and replicating evolution in the lab. How far can they expand the boundaries of virtual life?
The computing profession
Authors: Denning Peter J.
Published: February 2018

Taking stock of progress toward a computing profession since this column started in 2001.
Lipopolysaccharide stimulates BK channel activity in bladder umbrella cells
Authors: Lu Ming , Li Jian-Ri , Alvarez-Lugo Lery , Li Yan , Yu Shan , Li XuanHao , Shi Benkang , Chai Toby C.
Published: February 2018

Bladder urothelium plays an active role in response to bacterial infection. There is little known about the electrophysiological activity in urothelial cells in this process. We used a nonenzymatic method to isolate bladder urothelial tissue and to patch clamp umbrella cells in situ. A 200 pS conductance potassium (K+) channel was detected from female C57BL6 mice. Of 58 total patches, 17.2% patches displayed the 200 pS K+ conductance channel. This K+ conductance channel showed Ca2+ sensitivity and voltage dependence. Specific big-conductance potassium channel (BK) inhibitors (paxilline, iberiotoxin) blocked the 200 pS K+ conductance channel activity. RT-PCR and immunoblot confirmed BK channel pore-forming α-subunit (BK-α) mRNA and protein in urothelium. Immunohistochemistry also showed the BK-α located in urothelium. The above data provided evidence that the 200 pS K+ conductance channel was a BK channel. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of uropathogenic Escherichia coli, was used to investigate the role of BK channel in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infection. BK channel activity as NPo increased threefold within 30 min of exposure to LPS. mRNAs for LPS receptors (TLR4, CD14, MD-2) were expressed in the urothelium but not in lamina propria or detrusor. Blockade of the receptors by an antagonist (polymyxin B) abrogated LPS’s effect on BK channel. The involvement of protein kinase A (PKA) on BK channel activity was demonstrated by applying PKA blockers (H89 and PKI). Both PKA inhibitors abolished the BK channel activity induced by LPS. In conclusion, BK channel was identified in bladder umbrella cells, and its activity was significantly increased by LPS.
A MAPP Network study: overexpression of tumor necrosis factor-α in mouse urothelium mimics interstitial cystitis
Authors: Yang Wenbin , Searl Timothy J. , Yaggie Ryan , Schaeffer Anthony J. , Klumpp David J.
Published: February 2018

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome is a chronic bladder condition associated with pain and voiding dysfunction that is often regarded as a neurogenic cystitis. Patient symptoms are correlated with the presence of urothelial lesions. We previously characterized a murine neurogenic cystitis model that recapitulates mast cell accumulation and urothelial lesions, and these events were dependent on TNF. To further explore the role of TNF in bladder inflammation and function, we generated a transgenic mouse model with chronic TNF overexpression in urothelium under the control of the uroplakin II (UPII) promoter. Transgenic mouse lines were maintained by backcross onto wild-type C57BL/6J mice and evaluated for pelvic tactile allodynia as a measure of visceral pain, urinary function, and urothelial lesions. TNF mRNA and protein were expressed at greater levels in bladders of UPII-TNF mice than in those of wild-type mice. UPII-TNF mice showed significantly increased urinary frequency and decreased void volume. UPII-TNF mice had increased urothelial apoptosis and loss of urothelial integrity consistent with urothelial lesions. Overexpression of TNF was also associated with pelvic tactile allodynia. Consistent with these findings, UPII-TNF mice exhibited increased bladder afferent activity in response to stretch ex vivo. In summary, UPII-TNF mice display significant pelvic pain, voiding dysfunction, urothelial lesions, and sensory input. Thus UPII-TNF mice are a model for characterizing mechanisms of interstitial cystitis symptoms and evaluating therapies.
Mechano- and thermosensitivity of injured muscle afferents 20 to 80 days after nerve injury
Authors: Tode Jan , Kirillova-Woytke Irina , Rausch Vanessa H. , Baron Ralf , Jänig Wilfrid
Published: February 2018

Chronic injury of limb nerves leading to neuropathic pain affects deep somatic nerves. Here the functional properties of injured afferent fibers in the lateral gastrocnemius-soleus nerve were investigated 20 and 80 days after suturing the central stump of this muscle nerve to the distal stump of the sural nerve in anesthetized rats. Neurophysiological recordings were made from afferent axons identified in either the sciatic nerve (87 A-, 63 C-fibers) or the dorsal root L4/L5 (52 A-, 26 C-fibers) by electrical stimulation of the injured nerve. About 70% of the functionally identified A-fibers had regenerated into skin by 80 days after nerve suture; the remaining A-fibers could be activated only from the injured nerve. In contrast, 93% of the functionally identified C-fibers could only be activated from the injured sural nerve after 80 days. Nearly half of the injured A- (45%) and C-fibers (44%) exhibited ongoing and/or mechanically or thermally evoked activity. Because ~50% of the A- and C-fibers are somatomotor or sympathetic postganglionic axons, respectively, probably all injured muscle afferent A- and C-fibers developed ectopic activity. Ongoing activity was present in 17% of the A- and 46% of the C-fibers. Mechanosensitivity was present in most injured A- (99%) and C-fibers (85%), whereas thermosensitivity was more common in C-fibers (cold 46%, heat 47%) than in A-fibers (cold 18%, heat 12%). Practically all thermosensitive A-fibers and C-fibers were also mechanosensitive. Thus, unlike cutaneous axons, almost all A- and C-fibers afferents in injured muscle nerves demonstrate ectopic activity, even chronically after nerve injury.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY After chronic injury of a muscle nerve, allowing the nerve fibers to regenerate to the target tissue, 1) most afferent A-fibers are mechanosensitive and regenerate to the target tissue; 2) ectopic ongoing activity, cold sensitivity, and heat sensitivity significantly decrease with time after injury in A-afferents; 3) most afferent C-fibers do not regenerate to the target tissue; and 4) injured C-afferents maintain the patterns of ectopic discharge properties they already show soon after nerve injury.
Parametric Study on the Thermal Performance and Optimal Design Elements of Solar Air Heater Enhanced with Jet Impingement on a Corrugated Absorber Plate
Authors: Aboghrara Alsanossi M. , Alghoul M. A. , Baharudin B. T. H. T. , Elbreki A. M. , Ammar A. A. , Sopian K. , Hairuddin A. A.
Published: February 2018

Previous works revealed that cross-corrugated absorber plate design and jet impingement on a flat absorber plate resulted in a significant increase in the performance of a solar air heater (SAH). Involving these two designs into one continuous design to improve the SAH performance remains absent in the literature. This study aimed to evaluate the achieved enhancement on performance parameters of a SAH with jet impingement on a corrugated absorber plate. An energy balance model was developed to compare the performance parameters of the proposed SAH with the other two SAHs. At a clear sky day and a mass flow rate of 0.04 kg/s, the hourly results revealed that the max fluid outlet temperatures for the proposed SAH, jet-to-flat plate SAH, and cross-corrugated plate SAH are 321, 317, and 313 K, respectively; the max absorber plate temperatures are 323.5, 326.5, and 328 K, respectively; the maximum temperature differences between the absorber plate and fluid outlet are ~3, 9, and 15 K, respectively; the max efficiencies are 65.7, 64.8, and 60%, respectively. Statistical t-test results confirmed significant differences between the mean efficiency of the proposed SAH and SAH with jet-to-flat plate. Hence, the proposed design is considered superior in improving the performance parameters of SAH compared to other designs.
Glycine Increases Insulin Sensitivity and Glutathione Biosynthesis and Protects against Oxidative Stress in a Model of Sucrose‐Induced Insulin Resistance
Authors: El-Hafidi Mohammed , Franco Martha , Ramírez Angélica Ruiz , Sosa José Santamaria , Flores José Antonio Pineda , Acosta Ocarol López , Salgado Monserrath Chávez , Cardoso-Saldaña Guillermo
Published: February 2018

Oxidative stress and redox status play a central role in the link between insulin resistance (IR) and lipotoxicity in metabolic syndrome. This mechanistic link may involve alterations in the glutathione redox state. We examined the effect of glycine supplementation to diet on glutathione biosynthesis, oxidative stress, IR, and insulin cell signaling in liver from sucrose‐fed (SF) rats characterized by IR and oxidative stress. Our hypothesis is that the correction of glutathione levels by glycine treatment leads to reduced oxidative stress, a mechanism associated with improved insulin signaling and IR. Glycine treatment decreases the levels of oxidative stress markers in liver from SF rats and increases the concentrations of glutathione (GSH) and γ‐glutamylcysteine and the amount of γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase (γ‐GCS), a key enzyme of GSH biosynthesis in liver from SF rats. In liver from SF rats, glycine also decreases the insulin‐induced phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate‐1 (ISR‐1) in serine residue and increases the phosphorylation of insulin receptor β‐subunit (IR‐β) in tyrosine residue. Thus, supplementing diets with glycine to correct GSH deficiency and to reduce oxidative stress provides significant metabolic benefits to SF rats by improving insulin sensitivity.
Madelung’s Disease: Lipectomy or Liposuction?
Authors: Chen Chun-Ye , Fang Qing-Qing , Wang Xiao-Feng , Zhang Min-Xia , Zhao Wan-Yi , Shi Bang-Hui , Wu Li-Hong , Zhang Li-Yun , Tan Wei-Qiang
Published: February 2018

Background.Madelung’s disease is a rare lipid metabolic disorder characterized by diffuse, uncapsulated lipomas in the neck, shoulder, and other areas. It mainly affects middle-aged men and is related to alcohol abuse, and the cause is not clear. Surgical treatments include lipectomy and liposuction.Methods.This systematic review analyzed the treatment of Madelung’s disease described in 52 articles including complete patient details, published between 2000 and 2015, and retrieved from the Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, and Embase.Results.Lipectomy was performed in most cases and achieved more complete removal and better control of iatrogenic lesions of nearby structures than liposuction. Liposuction achieved good cosmetic results and is simpler and less invasive than lipectomy, but clinical experience is limited.Conclusions.Both lipectomy and liposuction have advantages and drawbacks. Surgeons should base the choice of optimal treatment on patient characteristics. Novel surgical techniques and etiologically targeted treatments hold promise as future therapies.
Rapid Adsorption of Proinflammatory Cytokines by Graphene Nanoplatelets and Their Composites for Extracorporeal Detoxification
Authors: Zheng Yishan , Pescatore Nicholas , Gogotsi Yury , Dyatkin Boris , Ingavle Ganesh , Mochalin Vadym , Ozulumba Tochukwu , Mikhalovsky Sergey , Sandeman Susan
Published: February 2018

Sepsis is a complex clinical syndrome that features excessive release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators that could lead to organ dysfunction. Despite different treatment and management options, sepsis associated high morbidity and mortality rates remain. This has prompted intensive research into alternative therapeutic approaches such as targeted removal of sepsis related molecules using extracorporeal hemoperfusion. In this study, we explore the use of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) as low-cost alternative hemosorbents for rapid removal of a broad spectrum of proinflammatory cytokine markers. Firstly, the physical characteristics, cytotoxicity, and cytokine marker adsorption profile of GNP were assessed. The results not only confirmed the surface characteristics of GNP and their ability to rapidly remove cytokine markers, but also indicated a low cytotoxicity towards the hepatic cell line HepG2. GNP were then incorporated into a freestanding flexible GNP-poly(tetrafluoroethylene) film with preserved surface characteristics and cytokine adsorption profile for potential use in hemoperfusion applications.
Nonlinear Disturbance Observer-Based Adaptive Sliding Mode Control for a Generic Hypersonic Vehicle
Authors: Guo Jianguo , Zhang Hao , Lu Xiaodong , Zhou Jun
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a new adaptive sliding mode control method is presented for the longitudinal model of a generic hypersonic vehicle subject to uncertainties and external disturbance. Firstly, an oriented-control model with mismatched uncertainties is built for a generic hypersonic vehicle. Secondly, the back-stepping technique is introduced to design a sliding mode controller with an adaptive law to adapt to the disturbance and uncertainty. Thirdly, a set of nonlinear disturbance observers are designed to estimate the lumped disturbance and compensate the sliding mode controller, and the stability of the proposed controller is analyzed by utilizing Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, simulation results show that the effectiveness of the proposed controller is validated by the nonlinear model and the proposed method exhibits promising robustness to mismatched uncertainties.