bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brassinosteroids act as a positive regulator for resistance against root‐knot nematode involving RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG‐dependent activation of MAPKs in tomato
Authors: Song Liu‐Xia , Xu Xue‐Chen , Wang Fa‐Nan , Wang Yu , Xia Xiao‐Jian , Shi Kai , Zhou Yan‐Hong , Zhou Jie , Yu Jing‐Quan
Published: March 2017

Interplay of hormones with reactive oxygen species (ROS) fine‐tunes the response of plants to stress; however, the crosstalk between brassinosteroids (BRs) and ROS in nematode resistance is unclear. In this study, we found that low BR biosynthesis or lack of BR receptor increased, whilst exogenous BR decreased the susceptibility of tomato plants to Meloidogyne incognita. Hormone quantification coupled with hormone mutant complementation experiments revealed that BR did not induce the defence response by triggering salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid/ethylene (JA/ET) or abscisic acid (ABA) signalling pathway. Notably, roots of BR‐deficient plants had decreased apoplastic ROS accumulation, transcript of RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG1 (RBOH1) and WHITEFLY INDUCED1 (WFI1), and reduced activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1/2 (MPK1/2) and MPK3. Silencing of RBOH1, WFI1, MPK1, MPK2 and MPK3 all increased the root susceptibility to nematode and attenuated BR‐induced resistance against the nematode. Significantly, suppressed transcript of RBOH1 compromised BR‐induced activation of MPK1/2 and MPK3. These results strongly suggest that RBOH‐dependent MPK activation is involved in the BR‐induced systemic resistance against the nematode.
Polyethylene versus cotton cap as an adjunct to body wrap in preterm infants
Authors: Shafie Hashim , Syed Zakaria Syed Zulkifli , Adli Ali , Shareena Ishak , Rohana Jaafar
Published: March 2017

Background

Occlusive body wrap using polyethylene plastic applied immediately after birth had been shown to reduce hypothermia among preterm infants. Various adjunct methods have been studied in an attempt to further reduce the incidence of hypothermia. This study was conducted to determine whether polyethylene cap is more effective than cotton cap as an adjunct to polyethylene occlusive body wrap in reducing hypothermia in preterm infants.

Methods

The subjects consisted of preterm infants 24–34 weeks’ gestation born at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre. Infants were randomly assigned to NeoCap or control groups. Infants in both groups were wrapped in polyethylene sheets from the neck downwards immediately after birth without prior drying. Infants in the control group had their heads dried and subsequently covered with cotton caps while infants in the NeoCap group had polyethylene caps put on without drying. Axillary temperature was measured on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and after having been stabilized in the incubator.

Results

Among the 80 infants recruited, admission hypothermia (axillary temperature <36.5°C) was present in 37 (92.5%) and in 40 (100%) in the NeoCap and control groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in mean temperature onNICUadmission between the two groups (35.3 vs 35.1°C,P = 0.36). Mean post‐stabilization temperature, however, was significantly higher in the NeoCap group (36.0 vs 35.5°C,P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Combined use of polyethylene body wrap and polyethylene cap was associated with a significantly higher mean post‐stabilization temperature compared with polyethylene body wrap and cotton cap.
Pulmonary rehabilitation in Australia and New Zealand: From guidelines to personalized treatment
Authors: Franssen Frits M.E. , Spruit Martijn A.
Published: March 2017

See article, page 800
Exact and Approximate Statistical Inference for Nonlinear Regression and the Estimating Equation Approach
Authors: Demidenko Eugene
Published: March 2017

The exact density distribution of the non‐linear least squares estimator in the one‐parameter regression model is derived in closed form and expressed through the cumulative distribution function of the standard normal variable. Several proposals to generalize this result are discussed. The exact density is extended to the estimating equation (EE) approach and the non‐linear regression with an arbitrary number of linear parameters and one intrinsically non‐linear parameter. For a very special non‐linear regression model, the derived density coincides with the distribution of the ratio of two normally distributed random variables previously obtained by Fieler almost a century ago, unlike other approximations previously suggested by other authors. Approximations to the density of the EE estimators are discussed in the multivariate case. Numerical complications associated with the non‐linear least squares are illustrated, such as non‐existence and/or multiple solutions, as major factors contributing to poor density approximation. The non‐linear Markov–Gauss theorem is formulated on the basis of the near exact EE density approximation.
Simultaneous human platelet antigen genotyping and detection of novel single nucleotide polymorphisms by targeted next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Davey Sue , Navarrete Cristina , Brown Colin
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Twenty‐nine human platelet antigen systems have been described to date, but the majority of current genotyping methods are restricted to the identification of those most commonly associated with alloantibody production in a clinical context. This can result in a protracted investigation if causative human platelet antigens are rare or novel. A targeted next‐generation sequencing approach was designed to detect all known human platelet antigens with the additional capability of identifying novel mutations in the encoding genes.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A targeted enrichment, high‐sensitivity HaloPlex assay was designed to sequence all exons and flanking regions of the six genes known to encode human platelet antigens. Indexed DNA libraries were prepared from 47 previously human platelet antigen‐genotyped samples and subsequently combined into one of three pools for sequencing on an Illumina MiSeq platform. The generated FASTQ files were aligned and scrutinized for each human platelet antigen polymorphism using SureCall data analysis software.

RESULTS

Forty‐six samples were successfully genotyped for human platelet antigens 1 through 29bw, with an average per base coverage depth of 1144. Concordance with historical human platelet antigen genotypes was 100%. A putative novel mutation in Exon 10 of the integrin β‐3 (ITGB3) gene from an unsolved case of fetal neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia was also detected.

CONCLUSION

A next‐generation sequencing‐based method that can accurately define all known human platelet antigen polymorphisms was developed. With the ability to sequence up to 96 samples simultaneously, our HaloPlex design could be used for high‐throughput human platelet antigen genotyping. This method is also applicable for investigating fetal neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia when rare or novel human platelet antigens are suspected.
Feeling the burn: the significant burden of febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions
Authors: Cohen Robert , Escorcia Alioska , Tasmin Farzana , Lima Ana , Lin Yulia , Lieberman Lani , Pendergrast Jacob , Callum Jeannie , Cserti‐Gazdewich Christine
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs) are characterized by a post‐transfusion temperature rise (of ≥ 1°C, to ≥ 38°C) or chills/rigors unrelated to the underlying condition. FNHTRs are provoked by inflammatory cytokines in the product or by host antileukocyte antibodies against residual donor leukocytes. FNHTRs are among the most commonly reported transfusion disturbances and are generally deemed nonserious events. However, their impact on patients and hospitals may be underestimated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A search through two hemovigilance databases identified all known possible‐to‐definite FNHTRs over 3 years (2013‐2015) at four academic hospitals using prestorage leukoreduced components. FNHTRs were assessed for frequency by product (red blood cells [RBCs], platelets [PLTs], intravenous immunoglobulin), diagnostics (bedside, chest imaging, serology, microbiology), and management (medications, disposition change). The definition of FNHTR was derived from Canada's Transfusion‐Transmitted Injuries Surveillance System.

RESULTS

For 437 FNHTRs, the overall per‐product rate across all sites was 0.24%, or 0.17% with RBCs alone and 0.25% with PLTs alone. One‐third of patients had significant fevers (≥ 39.0°C or a rise by ≥ 2.0°C). Approximately one‐quarter underwent chest imaging within 48 hours, and 79% had blood cultures. A hospital admission directly attributable to the FNHTR, to exclude other causes of fever, occurred in 15% of FNHTR outpatients.

CONCLUSION

An analysis of FNHTRs reveals a substantial burden of postreaction clinical activity in addition to the disturbance itself. Efforts to avoid this adverse event may save resources, reduce patient distress, and encourage compliance with more restrictive transfusion strategies.
Infectivity of blood products containing cytomegalovirus DNA: results of a lookback study in nonimmunocompromised patients
Authors: Ziemann Malte , Juhl David , Brockmann Christian , Görg Siegfried , Hennig Holger
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

DNA of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is frequently detected in plasma of donors with primary CMV infection. It is unknown, however, whether leukoreduced blood products from these donors contain sufficient amounts of infectious virus to cause transfusion‐transmitted CMV infections (TT‐CMV).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

During a 14‐year period, CMV DNA–positive donations were identified as part of several previously published studies. Additionally, further donors with seroconversion were tested for CMV DNA. The serostatus of patients who had received a CMV DNA–positive blood product was determined out of pretransfusion samples. Later samples were examined for development of CMV antibodies. Patients with a follow‐up of less than 140 days were also tested for CMV DNA.

RESULTS

A total of 221 blood products from CMV DNA–positive donations were transfused to 219 recipients. Pretransfusion samples were available for 179 patients, of whom 62 (34.6%) were seronegative. For 39 seronegative recipients of 40 blood products follow‐up samples drawn at least 30 days after transfusion were available. The median duration of follow‐up was 287 days (range, 38‐3784 days). Thirty‐six patients were still CMV seronegative in their last sample. Three patients were CMV seropositive due to passive antibody transfer by plasma rich products from seropositive donors, but CMV DNA negative in all tested samples.

CONCLUSION

TT‐CMV was excluded in all recipients of 40 blood products from CMV DNA–positive donations. This corresponds to a 95% interval of confidence for the risk of TT‐CMV of less than 7.4%. Because no patient belonged to a typical at‐risk population, the results are only valid for immunocompetent subjects.
Use of allogeneic apheresis stem cell products as an interlaboratory proficiency challenge
Authors: Cooling Laura , Roxbury Kelly , Hoffmann Sandra , DeBusscher Joan , Kota Usha , Goldstein Steven , Davenport Robertson
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

AABB Standards requires that laboratories participate in a proficiency test (PT) program for critical analytes. Institutions can purchase commercial PT materials; however, PT can also be performed through interlaboratory exchange. We investigated the utility of allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell apheresis (HPC‐A) products as an interlaboratory PT challenge for total nucleated cell count (TNC) and CD34 assessment.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Three‐year retrospective and comparative review of unrelated allogeneic HPC‐A products received by the University of Michigan between January 2011 and December 2013. Internal TNC and CD34 count were compared to the external collecting facility by paired t test and linear regression. The absolute and percent difference between external and internal counts and 95% limits of agreeability (95% LA) were determined. Results were analyzed relative to donor center location (international, domestic), time zone (domestic), and calendar year.

RESULTS

There was a strong correlation between internal and external TNC, regardless of donor center location or year. For CD34, there was a good correlation between centers (R = 0.88‐0.91; slope = 0.95‐0.98x) with a median difference of −1% (95% LA, −50%, +47%). This was considerably better than commercial PT challenges, which showed a persistent negative bias for absolute CD34 and CD3 counts.

CONCLUSION

Allogeneic HPC‐A products represent an interlaboratory PT exchange for all critical analytes, including TNC and CD34 count, cell viability, and sterility. Allogeneic HPC‐A products, which are fresh and transported under validated conditions, are less subject to preanalytical variables that may impact commercial PT samples such as aliquoting and sample homogeneity, commercial additives, and sample stability during manufacturing and transport.
Bosutinib, an SRC inhibitor, induces caspase‐independent cell death associated with permeabilization of lysosomal membranes in melanoma cells
Authors: Noguchi S. , Shibutani S. , Fukushima K. , Mori T. , Igase M. , Mizuno T.
Published: March 2017

Background

SRC kinase (SRC proto‐oncogene, non‐receptor tyrosine kinase) is a promising target for the treatment of solid cancers including human melanoma. Bosutinib (Bosu), a SRC inhibitor, has already been applied to the treatment of human chronic myelogenous leukemia and also has been assessed its safety in dogs.

Aim

The aim of this study was to clarify a novel anti‐tumour mechanism of Bosu in canine and human melanoma cells.

Materials and Methods

The canine and human melanoma cells were treated with Bosu and its effects were evaluated by the cell viability, the protein expression levels such as caspase‐3 and LC3, Annexin V/Propidium iodide staining, and confocal immunostaining.

Results

Bosu induced the massive caspase‐independent cell death, and blocked autophagy flux, which resulted from lysosomal dysfunction. Lysosomal dysfunction caused by Bosu was due to lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), which resulted in the release of lysosomal hydrolases including cathepsin B.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that Bosu induces the cell death through induction of LMP in melanoma cells and is a promising therapeutic agent for treatment of melanoma in both dogs and humans.
A calcium‐dependent pathway underlies activity‐dependent plasticity of electrical synapses in the thalamic reticular nucleus
Authors: Sevetson Jessica , Fittro Sarah , Heckman Emily , Haas Julie S.
Published: March 2017

Key points

Electrical synapses are modified by various forms of activity, including paired activity in coupled neurons and tetanization of the input to coupled neurons.

We show that plasticity of electrical synapses that results from paired spiking activity in coupled neurons depends on calcium influx and calcium‐initiated signalling pathways.

Plasticity that results from tetanization of input fibres does not depend on calcium influx or dynamics.

These results imply that electrically coupled neurons have distinct sets of mechanisms for adjusting coupling according to the specific type of activity they experience.

Recent results have demonstrated modification of electrical synapse strength by varied forms of neuronal activity. However, the mechanisms underlying plasticity induction in central mammalian neurons are unclear. Here we show that the two established inductors of plasticity at electrical synapses in the thalamic reticular nucleus – paired burst spiking in coupled neurons, and mGluR‐dependent tetanization of synaptic input – are separate pathways that converge at a common downstream endpoint. Using occlusion experiments and pharmacology in patched pairs of coupled neurons in vitro, we show that burst‐induced depression depends on calcium entry via voltage‐gated channels, is blocked by BAPTA chelation, and recruits intracellular calcium release on its way to activation of phosphatase activity. In contrast, mGluR‐dependent plasticity is independent of calcium entry or calcium dynamics. Together, these results show that the spiking‐initiated mechanisms underlying electrical synapse plasticity are similar to those that induce plasticity at chemical synapses, and offer the possibility that calcium‐regulated mechanisms may also lead to alternate outcomes, such as potentiation. Because these mechanistic elements are widely found in mature neurons, we expect them to apply broadly to electrical synapses across the brain, acting as the crucial link between neuronal activity and electrical synapse strength.
Impulse scattering from clouds of acoustically coupled gas bubbles in fluids
Authors: Raveau M. P. , Escauriaza C. , Dolder C. N. , Wilson P. S. , Feuillade C.
Published: March 2017

To calculate the impulse response of a bubble cloud in a compressible medium, a methodology is developed that incorporates multiple scattering effects between bubbles and coherent interactions of their individual scattered fields. This method is based on a perturbation theory, and provides for an approximate solution formulated by adding a perturbation to the mathematical description of a linear problem. The solution is defined as a power series, where the first term of the expansion corresponds to the solution of a linear uncoupled equation. The convergence of the expansion is determined by the parameters of the physical bubbles and the acoustic interactions. The model is successfully applied to describe experimental measurements of a model bubble cloud response in a shallow freshwater environment.
The druggable genome and support for target identification and validation in drug development
Authors: Finan Chris , Gaulton Anna , Kruger Felix A. , Lumbers R. Thomas , Shah Tina , Engmann Jorgen , Galver Luana , Kelley Ryan , Karlsson Anneli , Santos Rita , Overington John P. , Hingorani Aroon D. , Casas Juan P.
Published: March 2017

The druggable genome and genome-wide association study data reveal new drug development and repurposing opportunities.
Target practice in severe asthma
Authors: Christenson Stephanie A.
Published: March 2017

The NLRP3 inflammasome/caspase-1/IL-1β axis may be a therapeutic target in severe steroid-resistant asthma.
How to straighten out that which bends up
Authors: Philips Jennifer A.
Published: March 2017

Chikungunya virus requires host granzyme A to drive joint inflammation.
Identification of MupP as a New Peptidoglycan Recycling Factor and Antibiotic Resistance Determinant in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Fumeaux Coralie , Bernhardt Thomas G.
Published: March 2017

Peptidoglycan (PG) is an essential cross-linked polymer that surrounds most bacterial cells to prevent osmotic rupture of the cytoplasmic membrane. Its synthesis relies on penicillin-binding proteins, the targets of beta-lactam antibiotics. Many Gram-negative bacteria, including the opportunistic pathogen
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, are resistant to beta-lactams because of a chromosomally encoded beta-lactamase called AmpC. In
P. aeruginosa
, expression of the
ampC
gene is tightly regulated and its induction is linked to cell wall stress. We reasoned that a reporter gene fusion to the
ampC
promoter would allow us to identify mutants defective in maintaining cell wall homeostasis and thereby uncover new factors involved in the process. A library of transposon-mutagenized
P. aeruginosa
was therefore screened for mutants with elevated
ampC
promoter activity. As an indication that the screen was working as expected, mutants with transposons disrupting the
dacB
gene were isolated. Defects in DacB have previously been implicated in
ampC
induction and clinical resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. The screen also uncovered
murU
and
PA3172
mutants that, upon further characterization, displayed nearly identical drug resistance and sensitivity profiles. We present genetic evidence that
PA3172
, renamed
mupP
, encodes the missing phosphatase predicted to function in the MurU PG recycling pathway that is widely distributed among Gram-negative bacteria.

IMPORTANCE
The cell wall biogenesis pathway is the target of many of our best antibiotics, including penicillin and related beta-lactam drugs. Resistance to these therapies is on the rise, particularly among Gram-negative species like
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, a problematic opportunistic pathogen. To better understand how these organisms resist cell wall-targeting antibiotics, we screened for
P. aeruginosa
mutants defective in maintaining cell wall homeostasis. The screen identified a new factor, called MupP, involved in the recycling of cell wall turnover products. Characterization of MupP and other components of the pathway revealed that cell wall recycling plays important roles in both the resistance and the sensitivity of
P. aeruginosa
to cell wall-targeting antibiotics.
A Novel Mechanism for Protein Delivery by the Type 3 Secretion System for Extracellularly Secreted Proteins
Authors: Tejeda-Dominguez Farid , Huerta-Cantillo Jazmin , Chavez-Dueñas Lucia , Navarro-Garcia Fernando
Published: March 2017

The type 3 secretion system (T3SS) is essential for bacterial virulence through delivering effector proteins directly into the host cytosol. Here, we identified an alternative delivery mechanism of virulence factors mediated by the T3SS, which consists of the association of extracellularly secreted proteins from bacteria with the T3SS to gain access to the host cytosol. Both EspC, a protein secreted as an enteropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(EPEC) autotransporter, and YopH, a protein detected on the surface of
Yersinia
, require a functional T3SS for host cell internalization; here we provide biophysical and molecular evidence to support the concept of the EspC translocation mechanism, which requires (i) an interaction between EspA and an EspC middle segment, (ii) an EspC translocation motif (21 residues that are shared with the YopH translocation motif), (iii) increases in the association and dissociation rates of EspC mediated by EspA interacting with EspD, and (iv) an interaction of EspC with the EspD/EspB translocon pore. Interestingly, this novel mechanism does not exclude the injection model (i.e., EspF) operating through the T3SS conduit; therefore, T3SS can be functioning as an internal conduit or as an external railway, which can be used to reach the translocator pore, and this mechanism appears to be conserved among different T3SS-dependent pathogens.

IMPORTANCE
The type 3 secretion system is essential for injection of virulence factors, which are delivered directly into the cytosol of the host cells for usurping and subverting host processes. Recent studies have shown that these effectors proteins indeed travel inside an “injectisome” conduit through a single step of translocation by connecting the bacterium and host cell cytoplasms. However, all findings are not compatible with this model. For example, both YopH, a protein detected on the surface of
Yersinia
, and EspC, an autotransporter protein secreted by enteropathogenic
E. coli
, require a functional T3SS for host cell translocation. Both proteins have an intermediate extracellular step before their T3SS-dependent translocation. Here, we show an alternative delivery mechanism for these extracellularly secreted virulence factors that are then incorporated into the T3SS to enter the cells; this novel mechanism coexists with but diverges from the canonical injection model that involves the passage of the protein inside the injectisome.
Contribution of the Purinergic Receptor P2X7 to Development of Lung Immunopathology during Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Leyva-Grado Victor H. , Ermler Megan E. , Schotsaert Michael , Gonzalez Ma G. , Gillespie Virginia , Lim Jean K. , García-Sastre Adolfo
Published: March 2017

An exacerbated immune response is one of the main causes of influenza-induced lung damage during infection. The molecular mechanisms regulating the fate of the initial immune response to infection, either as a protective response or as detrimental immunopathology, are not well understood. The purinergic receptor P2X7 is an ionotropic nucleotide-gated ion channel receptor expressed on immune cells that has been implicated in induction and maintenance of excessive inflammation. Here, we analyze the role of this receptor in a mouse model of influenza virus infection using a receptor knockout (KO) mouse strain. Our results demonstrate that the absence of the P2X7 receptor results in a better outcome to influenza virus infection characterized by reduced weight loss and increased survival upon experimental influenza challenge compared to wild-type mice. This effect was not virus strain specific. Overall lung pathology and apoptosis were reduced in virus-infected KO mice. Production of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as interleukin-10 (IL-10), gamma interferon (IFN-γ), and CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) was also reduced in the lungs of the infected KO mice. Infiltration of neutrophils and depletion of CD11b
+
macrophages, characteristic of severe influenza virus infection in mice, were lower in the KO animals. Together, these results demonstrate that activation of the P2X7 receptor is involved in the exacerbated immune response observed during influenza virus infection.

IMPORTANCE
A hallmark of influenza virus infection is the development of lung pathology induced by an exacerbated immune response. The mechanisms shared by the antiviral host defense required for viral clearance and those required for development of immunopathology are not clearly understood. Purinergic receptors, and in particular the purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7r), are involved in activation of the immune response. We used mice lacking the P2X7r (P2X7r KO mice) to better understand the mechanisms that lead to development of lung pathology during influenza virus infection. In our studies, we observed that P2X7r KO mice developed less lung immunopathology and had better survival than the wild-type mice. These results implicate P2X7r in the induction of an exacerbated local immune response to influenza virus and help us to better understand the mechanisms leading to the lung immunopathology observed during severe viral infections.
CdiA Effectors Use Modular Receptor-Binding Domains To Recognize Target Bacteria
Authors: Ruhe Zachary C. , Nguyen Josephine Y. , Xiong Jing , Koskiniemi Sanna , Beck Christina M. , Perkins Basil R. , Low David A. , Hayes Christopher S.
Published: March 2017

Contact-dependent growth inhibition (CDI) systems encode CdiA effectors, which bind to specific receptors on neighboring bacteria and deliver C-terminal toxin domains to suppress target cell growth. Two classes of CdiA effectors that bind distinct cell surface receptors have been identified, but the molecular basis of receptor specificity is not understood. Alignment of BamA-specific CdiA
EC93
from
Escherichia coli
EC93 and OmpC-specific CdiA
EC536
from
E. coli
536 suggests that the receptor-binding domain resides within a central region that varies between the two effectors. In support of this hypothesis, we find that CdiA
EC93
fragments containing residues Arg1358 to Phe1646 bind specifically to purified BamA. Moreover, chimeric CdiA
EC93
that carries the corresponding sequence from CdiA
EC536
is endowed with OmpC-binding activity, demonstrating that this region dictates receptor specificity. A survey of
E. coli
CdiA proteins reveals two additional effector classes, which presumably recognize distinct receptors. Using a genetic approach, we identify the outer membrane nucleoside transporter Tsx as the receptor for a third class of CdiA effectors. Thus, CDI systems exploit multiple outer membrane proteins to identify and engage target cells. These results underscore the modularity of CdiA proteins and suggest that novel effectors can be constructed through genetic recombination to interchange different receptor-binding domains and toxic payloads.

IMPORTANCE
CdiB/CdiA two-partner secretion proteins mediate interbacterial competition through the delivery of polymorphic toxin domains. This process, known as contact-dependent growth inhibition (CDI), requires stable interactions between the CdiA effector protein and specific receptors on the surface of target bacteria. Here, we localize the receptor-binding domain to the central region of
E. coli
CdiA. Receptor-binding domains vary between CdiA proteins, and
E. coli
strains collectively encode at least four distinct effector classes. Further, we show that receptor specificity can be altered by exchanging receptor-binding regions, demonstrating the modularity of this domain. We propose that novel CdiA effectors are naturally generated through genetic recombination to interchange different receptor-binding domains and toxin payloads.
Metatranscriptomics Supports the Mechanism for Biocathode Electroautotrophy by “CandidatusTenderia electrophaga”
Authors: Eddie Brian J. , Wang Zheng , Hervey W. Judson , Leary Dagmar H. , Malanoski Anthony P. , Tender Leonard M. , Lin Baochuan , Strycharz-Glaven Sarah M.
Published: March 2017

Bacteria that directly use electrodes as metabolic electron donors (biocathodes) have been proposed for applications ranging from microbial electrosynthesis to advanced bioelectronics for cellular communication with machines. However, just as we understand very little about oxidation of analogous natural insoluble electron donors, such as iron oxide, the organisms and extracellular electron transfer (EET) pathways underlying the electrode-cell direct electron transfer processes are almost completely unknown. Biocathodes are a stable biofilm cultivation platform to interrogate both the rate and mechanism of EET using electrochemistry and to study the electroautotrophic organisms that catalyze these reactions. Here we provide new evidence supporting the hypothesis that the uncultured bacterium “CandidatusTenderia electrophaga” directly couples extracellular electron transfer to CO2fixation. Our results provide insight into developing biocathode technology, such as microbial electrosynthesis, as well as advancing our understanding of chemolithoautotrophy.
Protocol for a scoping review of existing policies on the prevention and control of obesity across countries in Africa
Authors: Adom Theodosia , Puoane Thandi , De Villiers Anniza , Kengne André Pascal
Published: March 2017

Introduction

The obesity epidemic is a public health challenge for all, including low-income countries. The behavioural patterns known to contribute to the rise in obesity prevalence occur in an environmental context which is not conducive for healthy choices. A policy approach to obesity prevention constitutes a form of public intervention in that it extends beyond individuals to influence entire populations and is a mechanism for creating healthier environments. Little is known about obesity prevention policies in Africa. This scoping review seeks to examine the nature, extent and range of policies covering obesity prevention in Africa in order to assess how they align with international efforts in creating less obesogenic environments. This will help identify gaps in the approaches that are adopted in Africa.

Methods and analysis

Using the Arksey and O'Malley's scoping methodological framework as a guide, a comprehensive search of MEDLINE (PubMed), MEDLINE (EbscoHost) CINAHL (EbscoHost), Academic Search Complete (EbscoHost) and ISI Web of Science (Science Citation Index) databases will be carried out for peer reviewed journal articles related to obesity prevention policies using the African search filter. A grey literature search for policy documents and reports will also be conducted. There will be no language and date restrictions. Eligible policy documents and reports will be obtained and screened using the inclusion criteria. Data will be extracted and results analysed using descriptive numerical summary analysis and qualitative thematic analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

No primary data will be collected since all data that will be presented in this review are based on published articles and publicly available documents, and therefore ethics committee approval is not a requirement. The findings of this systematic review will be presented at workshops and conferences; and will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journal. This will also form a chapter of a PhD thesis.
Hollow precast segmental prestressed concrete bridge columns with a shear resistant connecting element
Authors: Kim Tae-Hoon
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the performance of hollow precast segmental prestressed concrete (PSC) bridge columns with a shear resistant connecting element. A model of hollow precast segmental PSC bridge columns was tested under a constant axial load and a cyclically reversed horizontal load. The computer program, RCAHEST (Reinforced Concrete Analysis in Higher Evaluation System Technology) was used. Non-dimensional P-M interaction diagrams were developed to predict the design resistance of precast segmental PSC bridge columns. Among the numerous parameters, this study concentrates on concrete compressive strength, prestressing reinforcement ratio, effective prestress, diameter of circle passing through tendon centerlines-to-outside diameter of section ratio (Ds/Do) and inside diameter of section-to-outside diameter of section ratio (Di/Do). This study documents the testing of hollow precast segmental PSC bridge columns under cyclic loading and presents conclusions and design recommendations based on the experimental and analytical findings.
Molecular characterization of dihydroneopterin aldolase and aminodeoxychorismate synthase in common bean—genes coding for enzymes in the folate synthesis pathway
Authors: Xie Weilong , Perry Gregory , Martin C. Joe , Shim Youn-Seb , Navabi Alireza , Pauls K. Peter
Published: March 2017

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are excellent sources of dietary folates, but different varieties contain different amounts of these compounds. Genes coding for dihydroneopterin aldolase (DHNA) and aminodeoxychorismate synthase (ADCS) of the folate synthesis pathway were characterized by PCR amplification, BAC clone sequencing, and whole genome sequencing. All DHNA and ADCS genes in the Mesoamerican cultivar OAC Rex were isolated and compared with those genes in the genome of Andean genotype G19833. Both genotypes have two functional DHNA genes and one pseudo gene. PvDHNA1 and PvDHNA2 proteins have similar secondary structures and conserved residues as DHNA homologs in Staphylococcus aureus and Arabidopsis. Sequence analysis and synteny mapping indicated that PvDHNA1 might be a duplicated and transposed copy of PvDHNA2. There is only one ADCS gene (PvADCS) identified in the bean genome and it is identical in OAC Rex and G19833. PvADCS has the conserved motifs required for catalytic activity similar to other plant ADCS homologs. DHNA and ADCS gene-specific markers were developed, mapped, and compared to their physical locations on chromosomes 1 and 7, respectively. The gene-specific markers developed in this study should be useful for detection and selection of varieties with enhanced folate contents in bean breeding programs.
Luminescence properties and energy transfer of Tb3+–Eu3+ co-doped Sr3B2O6 phosphors
Authors: Tuyen Ho Van , Nguyen Manh Son
Published: March 2017

A series of single-composition phosphors Sr3B2O6: Tb[Formula: see text], Eu[Formula: see text]have been prepared via a combustion method. The structural and luminescent properties of phosphor are investigated in detail. Under ultraviolet radiation excitation, Sr3B2O6: Tb[Formula: see text], Eu[Formula: see text] phosphors show the characteristic [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] transitions of both Eu[Formula: see text] and Tb[Formula: see text] and give a bright yellow emission. The investigations on photoluminescence and lifetime of Eu[Formula: see text] show that there are two sites of luminescence center of Eu[Formula: see text] in host matrix. The energy transfer from Tb[Formula: see text] ion to Eu[Formula: see text] ion are observed and the mechanism of energy transfer is dipole–quadrupole interaction.
Stabilizer codes and equientangled bases from phase states
Authors: Mansour Mostafa , Daoud Mohammed
Published: March 2017

We develop a comprehensive approach of stabilizer codes and provide a scheme generating equientangled basis interpolating between the product basis and maximally entangled basis. The key ingredient is the theory of phase states for finite-dimensional systems (qudits). In this respect, we derive entangled phase states for a multiqudit system whose dynamics is governed by a two-qudit interaction Hamiltonian. We construct the stabilizer codes for this family of entangled phase states. The stabilizer phase states are defined as the common eigenvectors of the stabilizer group generators which are explicitly specified. Furthermore, we construct equally entangled bases from bipartite as well as multipartite entangled qudit phase states.
Influencing Factors of Inductance for 3D Micro-PCB Rectangular Coil
Authors: Chi Haokun , Cong Yanping , Wei Zhiqiang , Yin Bo , Gong Feixiang
Published: March 2017

The main constraint that restricts wireless charging technology successfully applied in miniature medical electronic equipment is that the volume of the transmission coil is difficult to reduce. The printed circuit board (PCB) coil can take advantage of multi-layer wiring space to achieve the coil stack, achieving the purpose of increasing the relative magnetic flux, so that it could replace the traditional spiral coil to become the medium of wireless power transmission in the mini-medical electronic device.

In this paper, we analyzed several electrical parameters that could affect the 3D PCB rectangular coil inductance value based on the 3D PCB rectangular coil inductance computing method. Then we sort these influencing factors so that these results can help designers to design the 3D PCB coil. The conclusions are as follows: (1) number of layers, total number of turns have positive correlation with the self-inductance; metal width, substrate thickness, the pitch between adjacent turns have negative correlation with the self-inductance. (2) The sorting of influencing factors of the inductance is as follows: total number of turns[Formula: see text]number of layers, the pitch between adjacent turns[Formula: see text]substrate thickness[Formula: see text]metal width.
Structural Process Pattern Matching Based on Graph Morphism Detection
Authors: Gacitua-Decar Veronica , Pahl Claus
Published: March 2017

Context: Processes are central to the operation of many systems or organizations. Process-centric systems, ranging from enterprise workflow systems to open distributed service compositions, have significantly increased in number and complexity.

Objective: Designers of process-centric systems can benefit from process abstractions (including patterns) capturing and allowing the reuse of designs for frequent operational problems. Existing process patterns detection techniques have efficiency problems and difficulties to identify partial and inexact pattern instances.

Method: We propose a process pattern detection technique based on a family of subgraph matching algorithms. The algorithms implement surjective graph morphism detection and a mechanism to incorporate semantic similarity computation for types and attributes of process graph elements.

Results: Efficiency is addressed using simplified data structures, reducing the search space and its exploration. Match accuracy and time-complexity are demonstrated in an experimental study.

Conclusions: Using process patterns allows business and technical processes to be provided as sharable service resources. Patterns can help to manage processes as configurable resources where a pattern can define a family of concrete customizable processes.
A User eXperience Evaluation Framework for Mobile Usability
Authors: Lee Hee-Jin , Lee Joon-Sang , Jee Eunkyoung , Bae Doo-Hwan
Published: March 2017

The worldwide mobile software market has grown dramatically since feature phones became popular in the early 1990s. In practice, mobile usability — which can be defined for a resource-constrained device in two ways, namely, User eXperience (UX) and User Interface (UI) — has been regarded as the key to gaining superiority in terms of both market share and customer loyalty. Unfortunately, de facto standards for software design and the development process, such as Unified Modeling Language (UML) and Rational Unified Process (RUP), do not seem to promote mobile usability in a systematic manner in practice. This paper proposes a systematic and generalizable approach to modeling and evaluating the properties of mobile usability, herein treating it as a first-class software quality from the perspective of software engineering. We devise a UX evaluation framework for mobile usability, which we call UX Evaluation Framework (UEF) throughout this paper. A UX is specified by inter-scene interactions between users and terminals of software products using Extended Menu Navigation Viewpoints (EMNVs); then, a model checker, NuSMV, is adopted to observe whether the EMNV model meets a set of given UX properties. Importantly, the analysis and design of RUP is extended to support the co-design of UX and UI so that major roles, activities and artifacts in the UX and UI can be explicitly monitored and controlled by stakeholders. Through case studies, we demonstrate that UEF works properly to treat software products that prioritize mobile usability. Consequently, UEF plays a key role in filling the gap between two research disciplines to address usability: software engineering and human–computer interactions.
A class of nonstatic exact solutions of the Einstein–Maxwell field equations
Authors: Mahmood Ayesha , Siddiqui Azad A. , Feroze Tooba
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we present a class of spherically symmetric nonstatic exact solutions of Einstein–Maxwell’s field equations. We have assumed the pressure distribution to be anisotropic and have taken ansatz on two of the gravitational potentials. The solutions admit negative values of the radial pressure. We have also discussed criteria on the physical variables to be acceptable.
Interior High Frequency Noise Analysis of Heavy Vehicle Cab and Multi-Objective Optimization with Statistical Energy Analysis Method
Authors: Chen Shuming , Wang Lianhui , Song Jiqang , Wang Dengfeng , Chen Jing
Published: March 2017

The interior sound pressure levels of a commercial vehicle cab at the driver’s right ear position and head rest position are determined as evaluation indices of vehicle acoustic performances. A statistical energy analysis model of the commercial vehicle cab was created by using statistical energy analysis method. The simulated interior acoustic performance of the cab has a significant coincidence with the experimental results. A response surface model was presented to determine the relationship between sound package parameters and evaluation indices of the interior acoustic performance for the vehicle cab. A multi-objective optimization was performed by using NSGA II algorithm with weighting coefficient method. The presented method provides a new idea for the multi-objective optimization design of the acoustic performances in vehicle noise analysis and control field.
Euclidean-valued group cohomology is always reduced
Authors: Austin Tim
Published: March 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a topological field and [Formula: see text] a countable discrete group. Then for any linear [Formula: see text]-action on a finite-dimensional vector space over [Formula: see text], the groups of coboundaries in the inhomogeneous bar resolution are closed in all degrees, and hence the cohomology is reduced in all degrees. This can be deduced from a more general automatic-closure theorem for continuous linear transformations between inverse limits of finite-dimensional vector spaces.
Exocytosis proteins as novel targets for diabetes prevention and/or remediation?
Authors: Aslamy Arianne , Thurmond Debbie C.
Published: March 2017

Diabetes remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting an estimated 422 million adults. In the US, it is predicted that one in every three children born as of 2000 will suffer from diabetes in their lifetime. Type 2 diabetes results from combinatorial defects in pancreatic β-cell glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and in peripheral glucose uptake. Both processes, insulin secretion and glucose uptake, are mediated by exocytosis proteins, SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor) complexes, Sec1/Munc18 (SM), and double C2-domain protein B (DOC2B). Increasing evidence links deficiencies in these exocytosis proteins to diabetes in rodents and humans. Given this, emerging studies aimed at restoring and/or enhancing cellular levels of certain exocytosis proteins point to promising outcomes in maintaining functional β-cell mass and enhancing insulin sensitivity. In doing so, new evidence also shows that enhancing exocytosis protein levels may promote health span and longevity and may also harbor anti-cancer and anti-Alzheimer’s disease capabilities. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the described capabilities of certain exocytosis proteins and how these might be targeted for improving metabolic dysregulation.
Novel Heterozygous Mutations in JAG1 and NOTCH2 Genes in a Neonatal Patient with Alagille Syndrome
Authors: Brennan Alisa , Kesavan Anil
Published: March 2017

Alagille Syndrome (ALGS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder that affects multiple organ systems. Cholestasis as a result of a paucity of intrahepatic bile ducts and congenital heart defects are the two most common features of ALGS. We describe a case of ALGS with novel mutations of JAG1 and NOTCH2 genes in a newborn girl with complex congenital heart disease, bilateral dysplastic kidneys, and malrotation with volvulus.
Asymmetric Outcomes of Type 1 Retinopathy of Prematurity after Bilateral Intravitreal Ranibizumab Treatment
Authors: Huang Qiujing , Zhang Qi , Xu Yu , Ji Xunda , Fei Ping , Peng Jie , Li Yi-an , Zhao Peiquan
Published: March 2017

Purpose. To present cases with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), who were treated with intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (IVR) and had unpredictable asymmetric outcomes. Methods. A retrospective review was performed in infants with type 1 ROP and had bilateral IVR (0.25 mg/0.025 mL) as initial treatment. Patients were classified into the asymmetric outcome group and the symmetric outcome group. Results. Eighty-four patients (168 eyes) were included. There were 18 eyes of 9 patients (10.7%) in the asymmetric outcome group and 150 eyes of 75 patients (89.3%) in the symmetric outcome group. In the symmetric outcome group, 86 eyes (57.3%) had ROP regression, 60 eyes (40%) had reactivation requiring laser treatment, and 4 eyes (2.7%) progressed to retinal detachment requiring vitrectomy. In the asymmetric outcome group, one of the eyes of the 9 patients had ROP regression with/without reactivation after IVR, while the contralateral eyes had negative response, including remarkable posterior fibrosis, partial or total retinal detachment, and vitreous hemorrhage. There was statistically significant difference between the birth weight of the two groups. Conclusion. Contralateral eyes with ROP can take a different clinical course after ranibizumab treatment. High rate of reactivation after IVR is another concern that ophthalmologists should pay attention to.