bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aquatic food‐web dynamics following incorporation of nutrients derived from Atlantic anadromous fishes
Authors: Samways K. M. , Soto D. X. , Cunjak R. A.
Published: December 2017

Changes in the isotopic composition (δ13C and δ15N) in biofilm, macro‐invertebrates and resident salmonids were used to characterize temporal dynamics of marine derived nutrients (MDNs) incorporation between stream reaches with and without MDN inputs. Five Atlantic rivers were chosen to represent contrasting MDN subsidies: four rivers with considerable numbers of anadromous fishes; one river with little MDN input. Rainbow smelt Osmerus mordax, alewife Alosa pseudoharengus, sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus and Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, were the primary anadromous species for the sampled rivers. Regardless of the spatial resolution or the pathway of incorporation, annual nutrient pulses from spawning anadromous fishes had a positive effect on isotopic enrichment at all trophic levels (biofilm, 1·2–5·4‰; macro‐invertebrates, 0·0–6·8‰; fish, 1·2–2·6‰). Community‐wide niche space shifted toward the marine‐nutrient source, but the total ecological niche space did not always increase with MDN inputs. The time‐integrated marine‐nutrient resource contribution to the diet of S. salar parr and brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis ranged between 16·3 and 36·0% during anadromous fish‐spawning periods. The high degree of spatio‐temporal heterogeneity in marine‐nutrient subsidies from anadromous fishes lead to both direct and indirect pathways of MDN incorporation into stream food webs. This suggests that organisms at many trophic levels derive a substantial proportion of their energy from marine resources when present. The current trend of declining anadromous fish populations means fewer nutrient‐rich marine subsidies being delivered to rivers, diminishing the ability to sustain elevated riverine productivity.
In Vitro Evaluation of Resilient Liner after Brushing with Conventional and Experimental Ricinus communis‐Based Dentifrices
Authors: Badaró Maurício Malheiros , Prates Talita Pereira , Leite‐Fernandes Vanessa Maria Fagundes , Oliveira Viviane de Cássia , Paranhos Helena de Freitas Oliveira , Silva‐Lovato Cláudia Helena
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of experimental (Ricinus communis) and commercial dentifrices used for denture cleaning on abrasiveness (gravimetric method; roughness), hardness, and color stability of a resilient relining material.

Materials and Methods

Sixty circular (15 × 3 mm) specimens were distributed into four groups: C (control; brushing with water); CO (brushing with Colgate – for natural teeth); CB (brushing with Corega Brite – for complete dentures); RC (brushing with experimental dentifrice). Brushing was performed in a toothbrushing machine with a soft brush and a dentifrice suspension for 50 minutes, calculated to correspond to 1 year of regular brushing. Variables were measured initially and after the trial period. For the gravimetric method, the difference in mass was considered. The surface roughness was measured by a rugosimeter, and the hardness test was performed by a Shore A durometer. Color changes (ΔE; CIE L*a*b* and NBS systems) were measured by a portable spectrophotometer. Results were analyzed by ANOVA/Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

The largest mass variation (μg; p < 0.0001) occurred in C (–6.21 ± 3.18). Concerning roughness, CB (0.26 ± 0.04) showed the lowest value, followed by RC (0.29 ± 0.08) and CO (0.34 ± 0.24) (p < 0.0001). Group C produced the greatest surface roughness (0.72 ± 0.25). Hardness values decreased after brushing with water (p = 0.014). No significant differences were found among RC (50.31 ± 1.03), CO (49.11 ± 1.31), CB (49.17 ± 1.23), and C (48.02 ± 1.26). Color stability was similar in all groups (p = 0.135; C: 2.3 ± 0.77; CO: 2.6 ± 0.54; CB: 2.2 ± 0.44; RC: 2.9 ± 1.56).

Conclusions

The use of experimental dentifrice could be indicated, as it showed similar results to the specific dentifrice, keeping the resilient material properties within acceptable values.
Presumptive migrating gall bladder mucocoele in two dogs with gall bladder rupture
Authors: Burchell R. K. , Thornton L. , Lim C. K. , Murakami M. , Nakamura Y. , Gal A.
Published: December 2017

A 10‐year‐old neutered female soft‐coated wheaten terrier and a 10‐year‐old, entire female Pomeranian were presented for vomiting and anorexia. Using ultrasound, an oval structure with a stellate, kiwifruit‐like appearance typical of a gall bladder mucocoele was observed in the caudal abdomen of the soft‐coated wheaten terrier and adjacent to the liver in the Pomeranian. There was also a moderate volume of abdominal effusion in both dogs. Cytology of the peritoneal fluid indicated a sterile exudative process but varied between the two dogs, with an absence of bile pigment in the soft‐coated wheaten terrier and marked bile peritonitis in the Pomeranian. An entire free‐floating ectopic mucocoele was confirmed via exploratory laparotomy with concomitant gall bladder rupture and common bile duct obstruction. Both dogs recovered completely after surgery. This is the first report of cases of gall bladder rupture with entire free‐floating gall bladder mucocoeles in dogs.
Religious Attendance and Volunteering: Testing National Culture as a Boundary Condition
Authors: Luria Gil , Cnaan Ram A. , Boehm Amnon
Published: December 2017

Numerous studies have documented the importance of religion, and especially of religious congregational attendance, in regard to volunteering. Most of these studies focus on individual and contextual factors, usually within one country. Recent studies suggest that the association between religious attendance and volunteering varies among countries. We hypothesize that national culture plays an important role in explaining volunteering mainly as a moderator of the relationship between religious attendance and volunteering, especially on volunteering to help people in need. To support this position, we used individual‐level data from the World Values Survey (WVS) coupled with national data on cultural measures. This enabled assessment of these relationships using a multilevel analysis of individuals nested in countries. We used two models of national culture, Hofstede (1984) and WVS to explain the differences between countries. We found direct relationships between national culture constructs (power distance and survival/self‐expression values) and volunteering. We also found that individualism, power distance, and survival/self‐expression values moderated the effect of religion on volunteering, with a stronger relationship between religious attendance and volunteering in nationalities with self‐expression values, high power distance, and low individualism. Theoretical and practical implications of this approach are discussed.
Immune response profiling of primary monocytes and oral keratinocytes to different Tannerella forsythia strains and their cell surface mutants
Authors: Bloch S. , Zwicker S. , Bostanci N. , Sjöling Å. , Boström E.A. , Belibasakis G.N. , Schäffer C.
Published: December 2017

The oral pathogen Tannerella forsythia possesses a unique surface (S‐) layer with a complex O‐glycan containing a bacterial sialic acid mimic in the form of either pseudaminic acid or legionaminic acid at its terminal position. We hypothesize that different T. forsythia strains employ these stereoisomeric sugar acids for interacting with the immune system and resident host tissues in the periodontium. Here, we show how T. forsythia strains ATCC 43037 and UB4 displaying pseudaminic acid and legionaminic acid, respectively, and selected cell surface mutants of these strains modulate the immune response in monocytes and human oral keratinocytes (HOK) using a multiplex immunoassay. When challenged with T. forsythia, monocytes secrete proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with the release of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and IL‐7 being differentially regulated by the two T. forsythia wild‐type strains. Truncation of the bacteria's O‐glycan leads to significant reduction of IL‐1β and regulates macrophage inflammatory protein‐1. HOK infected with T. forsythia produce IL‐1Ra, chemokines and VEGF. Although the two wild‐type strains elicit preferential immune responses for IL‐8, both truncation of the O‐glycan and deletion of the S‐layer result in significantly increased release of IL‐8, granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1. Through immunofluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy of infected HOK we additionally show that T. forsythia is highly invasive and tends to localize to the perinuclear region. This indicates, that the T. forsythia S‐layer and attached sugars, particularly pseudaminic acid in ATCC 43037, contribute to dampening the response of epithelial tissues to initial infection and hence play a pivotal role in orchestrating the bacterium's virulence.
In Politics We Trust…or Not? Trusting and Distrusting Demonstrators Compared
Authors: van Stekelenburg Jacquelien , Klandermans Bert
Published: December 2017

This article sheds light on the debate regarding political trust and protest activity. The debate boils down to the question whether trust in politics is positively or negatively related to protest activity. We exploit a dataset encompassing data on about 9,000 demonstrators spread over seven European countries. These demonstrators' trust in their parliaments varies widely, ranging from trustworthy capable, to corrupt incapable. We examine the diverging sociodemographic profiles and motivational dynamics that turn distrusting and trusting citizens into demonstrators. We hypothesize and show that distrusting demonstrators turn their back to institutionalized politics; for them, demonstratingsubstitutesthe party politics they distrust. For trusting demonstrators, demonstratingsupplementsparty politics. Trusting and distrusting demonstrators also differ considerably in terms of motivation. Distrusting demonstrators are stronger motivated to demonstrate than trusting demonstrators. Moreover, while political cynicism amplifies the motivation of distrusting demonstrators, it suppresses the motivation of trusting demonstrators. We conclude that the question to be answered is not so much whether people who engage in protest activity trust or distrust their political elites, but rather who the trusting and distrusting protesters are and why they protest.
Time‐resolved identification of mechanical loadings on plates using the virtual fields method and deflectometry measurements
Authors: O'Donoughue P. , Robin O. , Berry A.
Published: December 2017

This paper describes an approach for identifying the magnitude and location of both stationary and transient mechanical loadings applied to a thin rectangular simply supported plate. Full‐field deflectometry measurements and the virtual fields method are used with the local equilibrium equation of the plate in the time domain to solve the force reconstruction problem, whereas previous work by the authors used this last equation in the frequency domain. As a result, it is possible to reconstruct load time history in addition to magnitude and location. Experimental results of this complete identification are presented for two different instrumented mechanical exciters: electrodynamic shaker and impact hammer for stationary and transient excitations, respectively. The approach is then applied to determine the location and time of multiple unknown transient excitations produced by a set of impacting metal marbles.
Comparison of Offset and Wiping Z-Die Designs for Precision Z-Bent Part Fabrication
Authors: Thipprakmas Sutasn , Komolruji Pakkawat , Phanitwong Wiriyakorn
Published: December 2017

In recent years, the requirements for high dimensional precision on Z-bent shaped parts have become increasingly stringent. To attain these requirements, the suitable selection of the Z-die bending type has to be considered much more strictly. In this research, two types of Z-bending processes, offset Z-die bending and wiping Z-die bending, were investigated using the finite element method (FEM) to identify the spring-back characteristics and dimensions of Z-bent shaped parts. In the case of offset Z-die bending, the spring-back characteristics on both bend angles were similar. In contrast, in the case of wiping Z-bending, the spring-back characteristics on both bend angles were different. In addition, the dimensions of the Z-bent shaped parts were investigated. It was found, in the case of wiping Z-bending, that web thinning was generated and the outer bend radius was out of tolerance. To validate the FEM simulation results, experiments were carried out. The FEM simulation results showed good agreement with the experimental results in terms of the bend angles and the overall geometry of the Z-bent shaped parts. To achieve precise Z-bent shaped parts, the suitable selection of Z-die bending type in the Z-die bending process is very important.
A Statistical Model of Equivalent Grinding Heat Source Based on Random Distributed Grains
Authors: Nie Zhenguo , Wang Gang , Liu Dehao , Rong Yiming (Kevin)
Published: December 2017

Accurate information about the evolution of the temperature field is a theoretical prerequisite for investigating grinding burn and optimizing the process parameters of grinding process. This paper proposed a new statistical model of equivalent grinding heat source with consideration of the random distribution of grains. Based on the definition of the Riemann integral, the summation limit of the discrete point heat sources was transformed into the integral of a continuous function. A finite element method (FEM) simulation was conducted to predict the grinding temperature field with the embedded net heat flux equation. The grinding temperature was measured with a specially designed in situ infrared system and was formulated by time–space processing. The reliability and correctness of the statistical heat source model were validated by both experimental temperature–time curves and the maximum grinding temperature, with a relative error of less than 20%. Finally, through the FEM-based inversed calculation, an empirical equation was proposed to describe the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) changes in the grinding contact zone for both conventional grinding and creep feed grinding.
Vertical Jump Height Estimation Algorithm Based on Takeoff and Landing Identification Via Foot-Worn Inertial Sensing
Authors: Wang Jianren , Xu Junkai , Shull Peter B.
Published: December 2017

Vertical jump height is widely used for assessing motor development, functional ability, and motor capacity. Traditional methods for estimating vertical jump height rely on force plates or optical marker-based motion capture systems limiting assessment to people with access to specialized laboratories. Current wearable designs need to be attached to the skin or strapped to an appendage which can potentially be uncomfortable and inconvenient to use. This paper presents a novel algorithm for estimating vertical jump height based on foot-worn inertial sensors. Twenty healthy subjects performed countermovement jumping trials and maximum jump height was determined via inertial sensors located above the toe and under the heel and was compared with the gold standard maximum jump height estimation via optical marker-based motion capture. Average vertical jump height estimation errors from inertial sensing at the toe and heel were −2.2±2.1 cm and −0.4±3.8 cm, respectively. Vertical jump height estimation with the presented algorithm via inertial sensing showed excellent reliability at the toe (ICC(2,1)=0.98) and heel (ICC(2,1)=0.97). There was no significant bias in the inertial sensing at the toe, but proportional bias (b=1.22) and fixed bias (a=−10.23cm) were detected in inertial sensing at the heel. These results indicate that the presented algorithm could be applied to foot-worn inertial sensors to estimate maximum jump height enabling assessment outside of traditional laboratory settings, and to avoid bias errors, the toe may be a more suitable location for inertial sensor placement than the heel.
A diet pill for critical illness weakness?
Authors: Choi Huimahn Alex
Published: December 2017

The serotoninergic drug Lorcaserin rescued motor neuron electrophysiological abnormalities in an animal model of critical illness–induced weakness.
Running interference on hemorrhagic fever
Authors: Haspel Jeffrey
Published: December 2017

A siRNA-based therapy for Marburg viruses shows promise.
Species-Wide Collection of Escherichia coli Isolates for Examination of Genomic Diversity
Authors: Gangiredla Jayanthi , Mammel Mark K. , Barnaba Tammy J. , Tartera Carmen , Gebru Solomon T. , Patel Isha R. , Leonard Susan R. , Kotewicz Michael L. , Lampel Keith A. , Elkins Christopher A. , Lacher David W.
Published: December 2017

Pathogenic and nonpathogenic
Escherichia coli
strains present a vast genomic diversity. We report the genome sequences of 2,244
E. coli
isolates from multiple animal and environmental sources. Their phylogenetic relationships and potential risk to human health were examined.
Complete Genome Sequence of Roe Deer Picobirnavirus Strain PBV/roe_deer/SLO/D38-14/2014
Authors: Kuhar Urska , Vengust Gorazd , Jamnikar-Ciglenecki Urska
Published: December 2017

Picobirnaviruses (PBVs) have been detected in feces from various animal species and humans. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of the PBV/roe_deer/SLO/D38-14/2014 strain, which is the first PBV detected in roe deer, providing additional knowledge about the high diversity and host range of PBVs.
First Report of a Whole-Genome Shotgun Sequence of a Clinical Enterococcus faecalis Sequence Type 6 Strain from South Africa
Authors: Mbelle Nontombi Marylucy , Maningi Nontuthuko Excellent , Tshisevhe Vhudzani , Modipane Lesedi , Amoako Daniel Gyamfi , Osei Sekyere John
Published: December 2017

Enterococcus faecalis
is a lactic acid-producing Gram-positive bacterium commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals; it is implicated in multidrug-resistant nosocomial infections. The draft genome of this
E. faecalis
sequence type 6 (ST6) strain consists of 3,215,228 bp, with 37.20% GC content, 3,048 predicted coding sequences, and 61 RNA genes.
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test Quantitation as Predictor of Toxin Presence in Clostridium difficile Infection
Authors: Crobach M. J. T. , Duszenko N. , Terveer E. M. , Verduin C. M. , Kuijper E. J.
Published: December 2017

Multistep algorithmic testing in which a sensitive nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) is followed by a specific toxin A and toxin B enzyme immunoassay (EIA) is among the most accurate methods for
Clostridium difficile
infection (CDI) diagnosis. The obvious shortcoming of this approach is that multiple tests must be performed to establish a CDI diagnosis, which may delay treatment. Therefore, we sought to determine whether a preliminary diagnosis could be made on the basis of the quantitative results of the first test in algorithmic testing, which provide a measure of organism burden. To do so, we retrospectively analyzed two large collections of samples (
n
= 2,669 and
n
= 1,718) that were submitted to the laboratories of two Dutch hospitals for CDI testing. Both hospitals apply a two-step testing algorithm in which a NAAT is followed by a toxin A/B EIA. Of all samples, 208 and 113 samples, respectively, tested positive by NAAT. Among these NAAT-positive samples, significantly lower mean quantification cycle (

C
q

) values were found for patients whose stool eventually tested positive for toxin, compared with patients who tested negative for toxin (mean

C
q

values of 24.4 versus 30.4 and 26.8 versus 32.2;
P
< 0.001 for both cohorts). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to investigate the ability of

C
q

values to predict toxin status and yielded areas under the curve of 0.826 and 0.854. Using the optimal

C
q

cutoff values, prediction of the eventual toxin A/B EIA results was accurate for 78.9% and 80.5% of samples, respectively. In conclusion,

C
q

values can serve as predictors of toxin status but, due to the suboptimal correlation between the two tests, additional toxin testing is still needed.
Low Yield of FilmArray GI Panel in Hospitalized Patients with Diarrhea: an Opportunity for Diagnostic Stewardship Intervention
Authors: Hitchcock Matthew M. , Gomez Carlos A. , Banaei Niaz
Published: December 2017

The FilmArray GI panel (BioFire Diagnostics, Salt Lake City, UT) is a multiplex, on-demand, sample-to-answer, real-time PCR assay for the syndromic diagnosis of infectious gastroenteritis that has become widely adopted and, in some instances, has replaced conventional stool culture and parasite exams. Conventional testing has historically been restricted among hospitalized patients due to low diagnostic yield, but it is not known whether use of the FilmArray GI panel should be circumscribed. Cary-Blair stool samples submitted for FilmArray GI panel in adult patients admitted to an academic hospital from August 2015 to January 2017 were included in this study. Of 481 tests performed >72 h after admission, 29 (6.0%) were positive, all for a single target, excluding
Clostridium difficile
. When follow-up tests beyond the first positive per hospitalization were excluded, 20 (4.8%) of 414 tests were positive. There was no difference in yield by immune status. Most targets detected were viral (79% of all positives [
n
= 23] and 70% in unique patients [
n
= 14]). All four cases positive for a bacterial target could not be confirmed and presentation was atypical, suggesting possible false positives. After removing potential false positives and chronic viral shedders, the yield was 3.0% (12/406). Repeat testing performed >72 h after admission and following a negative result within the first 72 h was done in 19 patients and 100% (22/22) remained negative. The FilmArray GI panel has low yield in adult patients hospitalized for >72 h, similar to conventional stool microbiology tests, and it is reasonable to restrict its use in this population.
Evaluation of a Novel Single-Tube Method for Extended Genotyping of Human Papillomavirus
Authors: Bhatia R. , Serrano I. , Wennington H. , Graham C. , Cubie H. , Boland E. , Fu G. , Cuschieri K.
Published: December 2017

The use of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) testing for surveillance and clinical applications is increasing globally, and it is important that tests are evaluated to ensure they are fit for this purpose. In this study, the performance of a new HPV genotyping test, the Papilloplex high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) test, was compared to two well-established genotyping tests. Preliminary clinical performance was also ascertained for the detection of CIN2+ in a disease-enriched retrospective cohort. A panel of 500 cervical liquid-based cytology samples with known clinical outcomes were tested by the Papilloplex HR-HPV test. Analytical concordance was compared to two assays: a Linear Array (LA) HPV genotyping test and an Optiplex HPV genotyping test. The initial clinical performance for the detection for CIN2+ samples was performed and compared to that of two clinically validated HPV tests: a RealTime High-Risk HPV test (RealTime) and a Hybrid Capture 2 HPV test (HC2). High agreement for HR-HPV was observed between the Papilloplex and LA and Optiplex HPV tests (97 and 95%, respectively), with kappa values for HPV16 and HPV18 being 0.90 and 0.81 compared to the LA and 0.70 and 0.82 compared to the Optiplex test. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the Papilloplex test for the detection of CIN2+ were 92, 54, 33, and 96%, respectively, and very similar to the values observed with RealTime and HC2. The Papilloplex HR-HPV test demonstrated a analytical performance similar to those of the two HPV genotyping tests at the HR-HPV level and the type-specific level. The preliminary data on clinical performance look encouraging, although further longitudinal studies within screening populations are required to confirm these findings.
Maintenance of AP-2-Dependent Functional Activities of Nef Restricts Pathways of Immune Escape from CD8 T Lymphocyte Responses
Authors: Schouest Blake , Weiler Andrea M. , Janaka Sanath Kumar , Myers Tereance A. , Das Arpita , Wilder Sarah C. , Furlott Jessica , Baddoo Melody , Flemington Erik K. , Rakasz Eva G. , Evans David T. , Friedrich Thomas C. , Maness Nicholas J.
Published: December 2017

Nef-specific CD8
+
T lymphocytes (CD8TL) are linked to extraordinary control of primate lentiviral replication, but the mechanisms underlying their efficacy remain largely unknown. The immunodominant, Mamu-B*017:01
+
-restricted Nef
195-203
MW9 epitope in SIVmac239 partially overlaps a sorting motif important for interactions with host AP-2 proteins and, hence, downmodulation of several host proteins, including Tetherin (CD317/BST-2), CD28, CD4, SERINC3, and SERINC5. We reasoned that CD8TL-driven evolution in this epitope might compromise Nef's ability to modulate these important molecules. Here, we used deep sequencing of SIV from nine B*017:01
+
macaques throughout infection with SIVmac239 to characterize the patterns of viral escape in this epitope and then assayed the impacts of these variants on Nef-mediated modulation of multiple host molecules. Acute variation in multiple Nef
195-203
MW9 residues significantly compromised Nef's ability to downregulate surface Tetherin, CD4, and CD28 and reduced its ability to prevent SERINC5-mediated reduction in viral infectivity but did not impact downregulation of CD3 or major histocompatibility complex class I, suggesting the selective disruption of immunomodulatory pathways involving Nef AP-2 interactions. Together, our data illuminate a pattern of viral escape dictated by a selective balance to maintain AP-2-mediated downregulation while evading epitope-specific CD8TL responses. These data could shed light on mechanisms of both CD8TL-driven viral control generally and on Mamu-B*017:01-mediated viral control specifically.

IMPORTANCE
A rare subset of humans infected with HIV-1 and macaques infected with SIV can control the virus without aid of antiviral medications. A common feature of these individuals is the ability to mount unusually effective CD8 T lymphocyte responses against the virus. One of the most formidable aspects of HIV is its ability to evolve to evade immune responses, particularly CD8 T lymphocytes. We show that macaques that target a specific peptide in the SIV Nef protein are capable of better control of the virus and that, as the virus evolves to escape this response, it does so at a cost to specific functions performed by the Nef protein. Our results help show how the virus can be controlled by an immune response, which could help in designing effective vaccines.
Structural Basis for the Inhibition of Host Gene Expression by Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus nsp1
Authors: Shen Zhou , Ye Gang , Deng Feng , Wang Gang , Cui Min , Fang Liurong , Xiao Shaobo , Fu Zhen F. , Peng Guiqing
Published: December 2017

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), an enteropathogenic
Alphacoronavirus
, has caused enormous economic losses in the pork industry. Nonstructural protein 1 (nsp1) is a characteristic feature of alpha- and betacoronaviruses, which exhibits both functional conservation and mechanistic diversity in inhibiting host gene expression and antiviral responses. However, the detailed structure and molecular mechanisms underlying the
Alphacoronavirus
nsp1 inhibition of host gene expression remain unclear. Here, we report the first full-length crystal structure of
Alphacoronavirus
nsp1 from PEDV. The structure displays a six-stranded β-barrel fold in the middle of two α-helices. The core structure of PEDV nsp1 shows high similarity to those of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) nsp1 and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) nsp1, despite its low degree of sequence homology. Using ribopuromycylation and
Renilla
luciferase reporter assays, we showed that PEDV nsp1 can dramatically inhibit general host gene expression. Furthermore, three motifs (amino acids [aa] 67 to 71, 78 to 85, and 103 to 110) of PEDV nsp1 create a stable functional region for inhibiting protein synthesis, differing considerably from
Betacoronavirus
nsp1. These results elucidate the detailed structural basis through which PEDV nsp1 inhibits host gene expression, providing insight into the development of a new attenuated vaccine with nsp1 modifications.

IMPORTANCE
Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) has led to tremendous economic losses in the global swine industry. PEDV nsp1 plays a crucial role in inhibiting host gene expression, but its functional mechanism remains unclear. Here, we report the full-length structure of PEDV nsp1, the first among coronaviruses to be reported. The 1.25-Å resolution crystal structure of PEDV nsp1 shows high similarity to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) nsp1
13–128
and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) nsp1
1–104
, despite a lack of sequence homology. Structural and biochemical characterization demonstrated that PEDV nsp1 possesses a stable functional region for inhibition of host protein synthesis, which is formed by loops at residues 67 to 71, 78 to 85, and 103 to 110. The different functional regions in PEDV nsp1 and SARS-CoV nsp1 may explain their distinct mechanisms. Importantly, our structural data are conducive to understanding the mechanism of PEDV nsp1 inhibition of the expression of host genes and may aid in the development of a new attenuated vaccine.
Unexpected Functional Divergence of Bat Influenza Virus NS1 Proteins
Authors: Turkington Hannah L. , Juozapaitis Mindaugas , Tsolakos Nikos , Corrales-Aguilar Eugenia , Schwemmle Martin , Hale Benjamin G.
Published: December 2017

Recently, two influenza A virus (FLUAV) genomes were identified in Central and South American bats. These sequences exhibit notable divergence from classical FLUAV counterparts, and functionally, bat FLUAV glycoproteins lack canonical receptor binding and destroying activity. Nevertheless, other features that distinguish these viruses from classical FLUAVs have yet to be explored. Here, we studied the viral nonstructural protein NS1, a virulence factor that modulates host signaling to promote efficient propagation. Like all FLUAV NS1 proteins, bat FLUAV NS1s bind double-stranded RNA and act as interferon antagonists. Unexpectedly, we found that bat FLUAV NS1s are unique in being unable to bind host p85β, a regulatory subunit of the cellular metabolism-regulating enzyme, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). Furthermore, neither bat FLUAV NS1 alone nor infection with a chimeric bat FLUAV efficiently activates Akt, a PI3K effector. Structure-guided mutagenesis revealed that the bat FLUAV NS1-p85β interaction can be reengineered (in a strain-specific manner) by changing two to four NS1 residues (96L, 99M, 100I, and 145T), thereby creating a hydrophobic patch. Notably, ameliorated p85β-binding is insufficient for bat FLUAV NS1 to activate PI3K, and a chimeric bat FLUAV expressing NS1 with engineered hydrophobic patch mutations exhibits cell-type-dependent, but species-independent, propagation phenotypes. We hypothesize that bat FLUAV hijacking of PI3K in the natural bat host has been selected against, perhaps because genes in this metabolic pathway were differentially shaped by evolution to suit the unique energy use strategies of this flying mammal. These data expand our understanding of the enigmatic functional divergence between bat FLUAVs and classical mammalian and avian FLUAVs.

IMPORTANCE
The potential for novel influenza A viruses to establish infections in humans from animals is a source of continuous concern due to possible severe outbreaks or pandemics. The recent discovery of influenza A-like viruses in bats has raised questions over whether these entities could be a threat to humans. Understanding unique properties of the newly described bat influenza A-like viruses, such as their mechanisms to infect cells or how they manipulate host functions, is critical to assess their likelihood of causing disease. Here, we characterized the bat influenza A-like virus NS1 protein, a key virulence factor, and found unexpected functional divergence of this protein from counterparts in other influenza A viruses. Our study dissects the molecular changes required by bat influenza A-like virus NS1 to adopt classical influenza A virus properties and suggests consequences of bat influenza A-like virus infection, potential future evolutionary trajectories, and intriguing virus-host biology in bat species.
Put3 Positively Regulates Proline Utilization in Candida albicans
Authors: Tebung Walters Aji , Omran Raha Parvizi , Fulton Debra L. , Morschhäuser Joachim , Whiteway Malcolm
Published: December 2017

Candida albicans
poses a significant threat to the lives of immunocompromised people. Historically, knowledge has been drawn from studies on
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
to understand the pathogen, and many
Candida albicans
genes are named after their
S. cerevisiae
orthologs. Direct studies on the pathogen have, however, revealed differences in the roles of some orthologous proteins in the two yeasts. We show that the Put3 transcription factor allows the pathogen to completely degrade proline to usable nitrogen and carbon by evading regulatory restrictions imposed on its
S. cerevisiae
ortholog, which mandates conditional use of proline only as a nitrogen source in the baker’s yeast. The ability of
Candida albicans
to freely obtain nutrients from multiple sources may help it thrive as a commensal and opportunistic pathogen.
Two Phosphoglucomutase Paralogs Facilitate Ionophore-Triggered Secretion of theToxoplasmaMicronemes
Authors: Saha Sudeshna , Coleman Bradley I. , Dubey Rashmi , Blader Ira J. , Gubbels Marc-Jan
Published: December 2017

Ca2+-dependent exocytosis is essential for the life cycle of apicomplexan parasites.Toxoplasma gondiiharbors a phosphoglucomutase (PGM) ortholog, PRP1, previously associated with Ca2+-dependent microneme secretion. Here it is shown that genetic deletion of either PRP1, its PGM2 ortholog, or both genes is dispensable for the parasite’s lytic cycle, including host cell egress and invasion. Depletion of the proteins abrogated high Ca2+-mediated microneme secretion induced by the ionophore A23187; however, the constitutive and phosphatidic acid-mediated release remained unaffected. Secretion mediated by the former pathway is not essential for tachyzoite survival or acutein vivoinfection in the mice.
A Dirichlet-Multinomial Bayes Classifier for Disease Diagnosis with Microbial Compositions
Authors: Gao Xiang , Lin Huaiying , Dong Qunfeng
Published: December 2017

By incorporating prior information on disease prevalence, Bayes classifiers have the potential to estimate disease probability better than other common machine-learning methods. Thus, it is important to develop Bayes classifiers specifically tailored for microbiome data. Our method shows higher classification accuracy than the only existing Bayesian classifier and the popular random forest method, and thus provides an alternative option for using microbial compositions for disease diagnosis.
Investigating the effect of sociodemographic factors on 30-day hospital readmission among medical patients in Toronto, Canada: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Smith Robert W , Kuluski Kerry , Costa Andrew P , Sinha Samir K , Glazier Richard H , Forster Alan , Jeffs Lianne
Published: December 2017

Objective

To examine the influence of patient-level sociodemographic factors on the incidence of hospital readmission within 30 days among medical patients in a large Canadian metropolitan city.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting and participants

Patients admitted to the General Internal Medicine service of an urban teaching hospital in Toronto, Canada participated in a survey of sociodemographic information. Patients were not surveyed if deemed medically unstable, receiving care in medical/surgical step-down beds or were isolated for infection control. Included in the final analysis was a diverse cohort of 1427 adult, non-palliative, patients who were discharged home.

Measures

Thirteen patient-level sociodemographic variables were examined in relation to time to unplanned all-cause readmission within 30 days. Illness level was accounted for by the following covariates: self-perceived health status, previous hospital utilisation, primary diagnosis case mix group, Charlson Comorbidity Index score and inpatient length of stay.

Results

Approximately, 14.4% (n=205) of patients experienced readmission within 30 days. Sociodemographic factors were not significantly associated with time to readmission in unadjusted and adjusted analyses. Indicators of illness level, namely, previous hospitalisations, were the strongest risk factors for readmission within this cohort. One previous admission (adjusted HR 1.78; 95% CI 1.22 to 2.59, P<0.01) and at least four previous emergency department visits (adjusted HR 2.33; 95% CI 1.46 to 4.43, P<0.01) were associated with increased hazard of readmission within 30 days.

Conclusions

Patient-level sociodemographic factors did not influence the incidence of unplanned all-cause readmission within 30 days. Further research is needed to understand the generalisability of our findings and investigate whether contextual factors, such as access to universal health insurance coverage, attenuate the effects of sociodemographic factors.
Evolutionary Computation Based Sizing Technique of Nulling Resistor Compensation Based CMOS Two-Stage Op-Amp Circuit
Authors: De Bishnu Prasad , Maji Kanchan Baran , Kar Rajib , Mandal Durbadal , Ghoshal Sakti Prasad
Published: December 2017

This article explores the comparative optimizing efficiency between two PSO variants, namely, Craziness based PSO (CRPSO) and PSO with an Aging Leader and Challengers (ALC-PSO) for the design of nulling resistor compensation based CMOS two-stage op-amp circuit. The concept of PSO is simple and it replicates the nature of bird flocking. As compared with Genetic algorithm (GA), PSO deals with less mathematical operators. Premature convergence and stagnation problem are the two major limitations of PSO technique. CRPSO and ALC-PSO techniques individually have eliminated the disadvantages of the PSO technique. In this article, CRPSO and ALC-PSO are individually employed to optimize the sizes of the MOS transistors to reduce the overall area taken by the circuit while satisfying the design constraints. The results obtained individually from CRPSO and ALC-PSO techniques are validated in SPICE environment. SPICE based simulation results justify that ALC-PSO is much better technique than CRPSO and other formerly reported methods for the design of the afore mentioned circuit in terms of the MOS area, gain and power dissipation etc.
Research on the output bit error rate of 2DPSK signal based on stochastic resonance theory
Authors: Yan Daqin , Wang Fuzhong , Wang Shuo
Published: December 2017

Binary differential phase-shift keying (2DPSK) signal is mainly used for high speed data transmission. However, the bit error rate of digital signal receiver is high in the case of wicked channel environment. In view of this situation, a novel method based on stochastic resonance (SR) is proposed, which is aimed to reduce the bit error rate of 2DPSK signal by coherent demodulation receiving. According to the theory of SR, a nonlinear receiver model is established, which is used to receive 2DPSK signal under small signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) circumstances (between −15 dB and 5 dB), and compared with the conventional demodulation method. The experimental results demonstrate that when the input SNR is in the range of −15 dB to 5 dB, the output bit error rate of nonlinear system model based on SR has a significant decline compared to the conventional model. It could reduce 86.15% when the input SNR equals −7 dB. Meanwhile, the peak value of the output signal spectrum is 4.25 times as that of the conventional model. Consequently, the output signal of the system is more likely to be detected and the accuracy can be greatly improved.
Reducing the ordering temperature of FePt nanoparticles by Cu additive and alternate reduction method
Authors: Wang Fang , Bai Xiaojun
Published: December 2017

(FePt)[Formula: see text]Cu[Formula: see text] nanoparticles were successfully prepared by alternate reduction of metal salts in aqueous medium. Detailed investigations on the correlation between the magnetic and structural properties of these nanoparticles are presented as a function of annealing temperature. Both the X-ray diffraction patterns and the magnetic hysteresis loop measurements show the existence of L10-FePt phase at a relative low annealing temperature. It is proved that the Cu additive and alternate reduction are very effective methods in reducing the ordering temperature of FePt nanoparticles.
A Comfort-Based Approach to Smart Heating and Air Conditioning
Authors: Auffenberg Frederik , Snow Stephen , Stein Sebastian , Rogers Alex
Published: December 2017

In this article, we address the interrelated challenges of predicting user comfort and using this to reduce energy consumption in smart heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. At present, such systems use simple models of user comfort when deciding on a set-point temperature. Being built using broad population statistics, these models generally fail to represent individual users’ preferences, resulting in poor estimates of the users’ preferred temperatures. To address this issue, we propose the Bayesian Comfort Model (BCM). This
personalised
thermal comfort model uses a Bayesian network to learn from a user’s feedback, allowing it to adapt to the users’ individual preferences over time. We further propose an alternative to the ASHRAE 7-point scale used to assess user comfort. Using this model, we create an optimal HVAC control algorithm that minimizes energy consumption while preserving user comfort. Through an empirical evaluation based on the ASHRAE RP-884 dataset and data collected in a separate deployment by us, we show that our model is consistently 13.2% to 25.8% more accurate than current models and how using our alternative comfort scale can increase our model’s accuracy. Through simulations we show that using this model, our HVAC control algorithm can reduce energy consumption by 7.3% to 13.5% while decreasing user discomfort by 24.8% simultaneously.
Capillary Assembly of Colloids: Interactions on Planar and Curved Interfaces
Authors: Liu Iris B. , Sharifi-Mood Nima , Stebe Kathleen J.
Published: December 2017

In directed assembly, small building blocks are assembled into an organized structure under the influence of guiding fields. Capillary interactions provide a versatile route for structure formation. Colloids adsorbed on fluid interfaces distort the interface, which creates an associated energy field. When neighboring distortions overlap, colloids interact to minimize interfacial area. Contact line pinning, particle shape, and surface chemistry play important roles in structure formation. Interface curvature acts like an external field; particles migrate and assemble in patterns dictated by curvature gradients. We review basic analysis and recent findings in this rapidly evolving literature. Understanding the roles of assembly is essential for tuning the mechanical, physical, and optical properties of the structure.
Long Noncoding RNA uc001pwg.1 Is Downregulated in Neointima in Arteriovenous Fistulas and Mediates the Function of Endothelial Cells Derived from Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Lv Lei , Qi Haozhe , Guo Xiangjiang , Ni Qihong , Yan Zezhen , Zhang Lan
Published: December 2017

Recent studies indicate important roles for long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as essential regulators of gene expression. However, the specific roles of lncRNAs in stenotic lesions of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure are still largely unknown. We first analyzed the expression profiles of lncRNAs in human stenosed and nonstenotic uremic veins using RNA-sequencing methodology. A total of 19 lncRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in stenotic lesions. Among these, uc001pwg.1 was one of the most significantly downregulated lncRNAs and enriched in both control vein segments and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Further studies revealed that uc001pwg.1 overexpression could increase nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation and nitric oxide (NO) production in endothelial cells (ECs) derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (HiPSCs). Mechanistically, uc001pwg.1 improves endothelial function via mediating MCAM expression. This study represents the first effort of identifying a novel candidate lncRNA for modulating the function of iPSC-ECs, which may facilitate the improvement of stem cell-based therapies for AVF failure.
Treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse in a Patient with a Thermal Burn Wound Caused by Hot Stone Therapy, a Traditional Thai Treatment
Authors: Srisukho Sasivimol , Chinthakanan Orawee
Published: December 2017

A 72-year-old woman presented with a 1-month history of an incarcerated uterine prolapse along with an infected wound at the anterior uterine wall. She had previously undergone the traditional Thai practice Yue Fai, or “lying by the fire,” as performed by postpartum women. However, her uterus was burned by the extremely high temperature involved in the practice; it subsequently became infected and incarcerated. Pelvic examination revealed stage IV genitourinary prolapse according to the POP-Q classification. An ill-defined ulcer measuring 6.5 × 4.5 cm was present in the anterior wall of the uterus, and a 2.0 cm diameter ulcer was present in the right posterior wall of the uterus. The patient was treated symptomatically with broad-spectrum antibiotics, local estrogen therapy, analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents, and antiseptic dressing of the ulcerated area. After alleviation of all symptoms, the ulcer almost completely healed. She was advised to undergo definitive surgical treatment for the prolapsed uterus.
The Common Mechanisms of Sarcopenia and NAFLD
Authors: Zhai Yu , Xiao Qian
Published: December 2017

Current studies have shown that sarcopenia and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have similar pathophysiological profiles. The cooccurrence of sarcopenia and NAFLD has been observed in elderly patients. The actions of these conditions are linked, and their treatments are similar. Therefore, studies should be conducted on NAFLD-sarcopenia rather than on NAFLD or sarcopenia.
MicroRNA and Putative Target Discoveries in Chrysanthemum Polyploidy Breeding
Authors: Zhang Fengjiao , Zhao Jingya , Xu Sujuan , Fang Weimin , Chen Fadi , Teng Nianjun
Published: December 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), around 22 nucleotides (nt) in length, are a class of endogenous and noncoding RNA molecule that play an essential role in plant development, either by suppressing the transcription of target genes at a transcriptional level or inhibiting translation at a posttranscriptional level. To understand the roles of miRNAs and their target genes in chrysanthemum polyploidy breeding, three sRNA libraries of normal and abnormal embryos after hybridization were performed by RNA-Seq. As a result, a total of 170 miRNAs were identified and there are 41 special miRNAs in cross of paternal chromosome doubling, such as miR169b, miR440, and miR528-5p. miR164c and miR159a were highly expressed in a normal embryo at 18 days after pollination, suggesting the regulatory role at the late stage of embryonic development. miR172c was only detected in the normal embryo at 18 days after pollination, which means that miR172c mainly mediates gene expression in postembryonic development and these genes may promote embryo maturation. Other miRNAs, including miR414, miR2661, and miR5021, may regulate the genes participated in pathways of auxin response and energy metabolism; then they regulate the complex embryonic development together.