bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differently localized lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferases crucial for triacylglycerol biosynthesis in the oleaginous alga Nannochloropsis
Authors: Nobusawa Takashi , Hori Koichi , Mori Hiroshi , Kurokawa Ken , Ohta Hiroyuki
Published: February 2017

The production of renewable bioenergy will be necessary to meet rising global fossil fuel demands. Members of the marine microalgae genus Nannochloropsis produce large quantities of oils (triacylglycerols; TAGs), and this genus is regarded as one of the most promising for biodiesel production. Recent genome sequencing and transcriptomic studies on Nannochloropsis have provided a foundation for understanding its oleaginous trait, but the mechanism underlying oil accumulation remains to be clarified. Here we report Nannochloropsis knock‐out strains of four extraplastidic lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferases (LPAT1–LPAT4) that catalyze a major de novo biosynthetic step of TAGs and membrane lipids. We found that the four LPATs are differently involved in lipid metabolic flow in Nannochloropsis. Double knock‐outs among the LPATs revealed the pivotal LPATs for TAG biosynthesis, and localization analysis indicated that the stramenopile‐specific LPATs (LPAT3 and LPAT4) associated with TAG synthesis reside at the perimeter of lipid droplets. No homologous region has been found with other lipid droplet‐associated proteins, however. Lipid droplets are an organelle found in nearly all organisms, and recently they were shown to play important roles in cellular metabolism and signaling. Our results provide direct evidence for the importance of the perimeter of lipid droplet in TAG synthesis in addition to its known role in maintaining TAG stability, and these findings suggest that the oleaginous trait of Nannochloropsis is enabled by the acquisition of LPATs at the perimeter of lipid droplets.
Comparative analysis of DNA methylation patterns of equine sarcoid and healthy skin samples
Authors: Semik E. , Ząbek T. , Gurgul A. , Fornal A. , Szmatoła T. , Pawlina K. , Wnuk M. , Klukowska‐Rötzler J. , Koch C. , Mählmann K. , Bugno‐Poniewierska M.
Published: February 2017

Objective

In this study, for the first time we report the genome‐wide DNA methylation profile of skin tumour in horses and describe differentially methylated genomic regions (DMRs) with respect to healthy skin.

Materials & Methods

The comparative analysis of DNA methylation patterns detected using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) technique, allowed identification of 136 regions showing differential methylation between sarcoid and normal skin tissue.

Results

Most of the identified DMRs were short fragments, less than 1 kb in size, located in the intergenic regions. Among identified DMRs there were also regions located within genes directly or indirectly related with oncogenesis. We additionally validated 9 CpG sites showing hypomethylation and 9 CpG sites that were hypermethylated in lesional sample, confirming the identified changes in the DNA methylation.

Conclusion

Knowledge on the changes taking place in the process of DNA methylation may provide a basis for the development of new alternative diagnostic or therapeutic approaches to equine sarcoids.
Mortality outcomes in patients transfused with fresher versus older red blood cells: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Chai‐Adisaksopha C. , Alexander P. E. , Guyatt G. , Crowther M. A. , Heddle N. M. , Devereaux P. J. , Ellis M. , Roxby D. , Sessler D. I. , Eikelboom J. W.
Published: February 2017

Background

Among transfused patients, the effect of the duration of red blood cell storage on mortality remains unclear. This study aims to compare the mortality of patients who were transfused with fresher versus older red blood cells.

Methods

We performed an updated systematic search in the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases, from January 2015 to October 2016. RCTs of hospitalized patients of any age comparing transfusion of fresher versus older red blood cells were eligible. We used a random‐effects model to calculate pooled risk ratios (RRs) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We identified 14 randomized trials that enrolled 26 374 participants. All‐cause mortality occurred in 1219 of 9531 (12·8%) patients who received a transfusion of fresher red blood cells and 1810 of 16 843 (10·7%) in those who received older red blood cells (RR: 1·04, 95% CI: 0·98–1·12, P = 0·90, I2 = 0%, high certainty for ruling out benefit of fresh blood, moderate certainty for ruling out harm of fresh blood). In six studies, in‐hospital death occurred in 691 of 7479 (9·2%) patients receiving fresher red cells and 1291 of 14 757 (8·8%) receiving older red cells (RR: 1·06, 95% CI: 0·97–1·15, P = 0·81, I2 = 0%, high certainty for ruling out benefit of fresh blood, moderate certainty for ruling out harm of fresh blood).

Conclusion

Transfusion of fresher red blood cells does not reduce overall or in‐hospital mortality when compared with older red blood cells. Our results support the practice of transfusing patients with the oldest red blood cells available in the blood bank.
Serological evidence for exposure to avian influenza viruses within poultry workers in southern China
Authors: de Bruin E. , Zhang X. , Ke C. , Sikkema R. , Koopmans M.
Published: February 2017

The risk of infection with avian influenza viruses for poultry workers is relatively unknown in China, and study results are often biased by the notification of only the severe human cases. Protein microarray was used to detect binding antibodies to 13 different haemagglutinin (HA1‐part) antigens of avian influenza A(H5N1), A(H7N7), A(H7N9) and A(H9N2) viruses, in serum samples from poultry workers and healthy blood donors collected in the course of 3 years in Guangdong Province, China. Significantly higher antibody titre levels were detected in poultry workers when compared to blood donors for the most recent H5 and H9 strains tested. These differences were most pronounced in younger age groups for antigens from older strains, but were observed in all age groups for the recent H5 and H9 antigens. For the H7 strains tested, only poultry workers from two retail live poultry markets had significantly higher antibody titres compared to blood donors.
Early Childhood Practitioner Judgments of the Social Validity of Performance Checklists and Parent Practice Guides
Authors: Dunst Carl J.
Published: February 2017

Findings from three field tests evaluations of early childhood intervention practitioner performance checklists and three parent practice guides are reported. Forty-two practitioners from three early childhood intervention programs reviewed the checklists and practice guides and made (1) social validity judgments of both products, (2) judgments of the compatibility of the checklists and practice guides, and (3) suggestions for improving the intervention products and materials. Results showed that practitioner feedback and suggestions yielded valuable information for improving the products where changes made in response to the practitioners’ social validity ratings and suggestions from the first field test had discernible effects on judgments and feedback of revised products. The importance of striving to develop intervention products and materials that are judged as socially important and acceptable is described.
Effect of Eight-week Exercise Program on Social Physique Anxiety Conditions in Adult Males
Authors: Akyüz Öznur
Published: February 2017

Physiological changes occurring with physical activity have played role in appearance of a different field of study. Thus, examination of the effect of eight-week exercise program on SPA in adult males forms the purpose of the study. 20 sedentary males aged 18-25 voluntarily participated in the research. Volunteers were applied resistance exercise at a severity of 40-60% for eight weeks. All participants were made to fill out Social Physique Anxiety Scale (SPAS) 8 weeks before starting and after the exercises. SPSS package program (version 15.0) and wilcoxon signed-rank test of non-parametric tests were used in data analysis. Changes, which occurred in strength following eight-week exercise program, were found to be statistically significant at levels varying from p≤0.05 to p≤0.01 in various movements used in the exercise. A difference at a rate of p≤0.05 occurred in body weight. A statistically significant difference occurred before and after the eight-week exercise according to SPAS survey data of the participants (P≤0.05). As a consequence, it is possible to state that the exercise program we applied had positive effect on strength. In addition, the positive difference which occurred when SPAS preliminary and final data were compared can be considered together with the increase in strength and hence, physical appearances.
Coetzeella navalensis gen. nov., sp. nov. (Acari, Oribatida, Oppiidae) from South Africa
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Hugo-Coetzee Elizabeth , Khaustov Alexandr
Published: February 2017

A new oribatid mite genus, Coetzeella gen. nov. (Oribatida, Oppiidae), with C. navalensis sp. nov. as type species, is proposed and described based on adults from termitaries of South Africa. It is distinguished from all oribatid taxa by having a deep hollow bordered by membranoid lobes on the hump-like anterior part of prodorsum.
Noise exposure among federal wildland fire fighters
Authors: Broyles George , Butler Corey R. , Kardous Chucri A.
Published: February 2017

Wildland fire fighters use many tools and equipment that produce noise levels that may be considered hazardous to hearing. This study evaluated 174 personal dosimetry measurements on 156 wildland fire fighters conducting various training and fire suppression tasks. Noise exposures often exceeded occupational exposure limits and suggest that wildland fire fighters may be at risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss, particularly those operating chainsaws, chippers, and masticators. The authors recommend a comprehensive approach to protecting these fire fighters that includes purchasing quieter equipment, noise and administrative controls, and enrolling these fire fighters into a hearing conservation program.
Acoustic resonance spectroscopy of soft solids
Authors: Wilen Larry
Published: February 2017

An acoustic resonance apparatus for probing mechanical properties of materials with soft to moderate hardness (elastic modulus <5 GPa) is described. The technique employs stereo phono-needle transducers suitable for measurements in the range from 40 Hz to 40 kHz which are very weakly perturbing to the sample and have polarized excitation and detection. Identification of the normal modes is facilitated by the polarization information, and the technique is applicable to materials ranging from soft elastomers to hard plastics. The experimental setup is described in detail, and the utility of the technique is showcased in three example applications.
How reproducible is the acoustical characterization of porous media?
Authors: Pompoli Francesco , Bonfiglio Paolo , Horoshenkov Kirill V. , Khan Amir , Jaouen Luc , Bécot François-Xavier , Sgard Franck , Asdrubali Francesco , D'Alessandro Francesco , Hübelt Jörn , Atalla Noureddine , Amédin Celse K. , Lauriks Walter , Boeckx Laurens
Published: February 2017

There is a considerable number of research publications on the characterization of porous media that is carried out in accordance with ISO 10534-2 (International Standards Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 2001) and/or ISO 9053 (International Standards Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 1991). According to the Web of ScienceTM (last accessed 22 September 2016) there were 339 publications in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America alone which deal with the acoustics of porous media. However, the reproducibility of these characterization procedures is not well understood. This paper deals with the reproducibility of some standard characterization procedures for acoustic porous materials. The paper is an extension of the work published by Horoshenkov, Khan, Bécot, Jaouen, Sgard, Renault, Amirouche, Pompoli, Prodi, Bonfiglio, Pispola, Asdrubali, Hübelt, Atalla, Amédin, Lauriks, and Boeckx [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 122(1), 345–353 (2007)]. In this paper, independent laboratory measurements were performed on the same material specimens so that the naturally occurring inhomogeneity in materials was controlled. It also presented the reproducibility data for the characteristic impedance, complex wavenumber, and for some related pore structure properties. This work can be helpful to better understand the tolerances of these material characterization procedures so improvements can be developed to reduce experimental errors and improve the reproducibility between laboratories.
The flavonoid cyanidin blocks binding of the cytokine interleukin-17A to the IL-17RA subunit to alleviate inflammation in vivo
Authors: Liu Caini , Zhu Liang , Fukuda Koichi , Ouyang Suidong , Chen Xing , Wang Chenhui , Zhang Cun-jin , Martin Bradley , Gu Chunfang , Qin Luke , Rachakonda Suguna , Aronica Mark , Qin Jun , Li Xiaoxia
Published: February 2017

A molecule from red berries blocks the activity of a proinflammatory cytokine and alleviates inflammation in mice.
Science Signaling
Podcast for 21 February 2017: Pentraxin-3 in basal-like breast cancer
Authors: Karnoub Antoine E. , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: February 2017

Increased expression of
PTX3
promotes the growth of basal-like breast cancer cells (Thomas
et al
. in 21 February 2017 issue).
Papers of note in
Science
355
(6326)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: February 2017

This week’s articles identify a requirement for lipid transport between the endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane in insulin release, a mechanism in which contact with a host cell reprograms bacterial gene expression, a signal from a soybean pathogen that impairs soybean’s defense response, and a mechanism by which hair follicles may be leveraged to reduce scar formation.
Papers of note in
Nature
542
(7641)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: February 2017

This week’s articles highlight a tRNA synthetase in mTORC1 signaling in fat cell metabolism and aging, the vulnerability of cancer cells to drugs that target proteostasis, and a mechanism by which stressed neurons expel protein aggregates and dysfunctional organelles.
Surgical criteria for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome: a scoping review
Authors: Peters Scott , Laing Alisha , Emerson Courtney , Mutchler Kelsey , Joyce Thomas , Thorborg Kristian , Hölmich Per , Reiman Michael
Published: February 2017

Background

The purpose of this review was to analyse and report criteria used for open and arthroscopic surgical treatment of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS).

Methods

A librarian-assisted computer search of Medline, CINAHL and Embase for studies related to criterion for FAIS surgery was used in this study. Inclusion criteria included studies with the primary purpose of surgery or surgical outcomes for treatment of FAIS with and without labral tear, and reporting criteria for FAIS surgery.

Results

Diagnostic imaging was a criterion for surgery in 92% of the included studies, with alpha angle the most frequently reported (68% of studies) criterion. Reporting of symptoms was a criterion for surgery in 75%, and special tests a criterion in 70% of studies. Range-of-motion limitations were only a required criterion in 30%, only 12% of studies required intra-articular injection and 44% of studies described previously failed treatment (non-surgical or physiotherapist-led rehabilitation) as a criterion for surgery. Only 56% of included studies utilised the combination of symptoms, clinical signs and diagnostic imaging combined for diagnosis of FAIS as suggested by the Warwick Agreement on FAIS meeting.

Conclusion

Diagnostic imaging evidence of FAIS was the most commonly reported criterion for surgery. Only 56% of included studies utilised the combination of symptoms, clinical signs and diagnostic imaging for diagnosis of FAIS as suggested by the Warwick Agreement on FAIS meeting, and only 44% of studies had failed non-surgical treatment (and 18% a failed trial of physiotherapy) as a criterion for surgery.
Development and validation of an instrument to measure collaborative goal setting in the care of patients with diabetes
Authors: Morris Heather L , Dumenci Levent , Lafata Jennifer E
Published: February 2017

Objective

Despite known benefits of patient-perceived collaborative goal setting, we have a limited ability to monitor this process in practice. We developed the Patient Measure of Collaborative Goal Setting (PM-CGS) to evaluate the use of collaborative goal setting from the patient's perspective.

Research design and methods

A random sample of 400 patients aged 40 years or older, receiving diabetes care from the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System between 8/2012 and 8/2013, were mailed a survey containing potential PM-CGS items (n=44) as well as measures of patient demographics, perceived self-management competence, trust in their physician, and self-management behaviors. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate construct validity. External validity was evaluated via a structural equation model (SEM) that tested the association of the PM-CGS with self-management behaviors. The direct and two mediated (via trust and self-efficacy) pathways were tested.

Results

A total of 259 patients responded to the survey (64% response rate), of which 192 were eligible for inclusion. Results from the factor analysis supported a 37-item measure of patient-perceived CGS spanning five domains: listen and learn; share ideas; caring relationship; measurable objective; and goal achievement support (χ=4366.13, p<0.001; RMSEA=0.08). Results from the SEM supported the external validity of the PM-CGS. The relationship between CGS and self-management was partially mediated by perceived competence (p<0.05). The direct effect between the PM-CGS and self-management was significant (p<0.001).

Conclusions

CGS can be validly measured by the 37-item PM-CGS. Use of the PM-CGS can help illustrate actionable deficits in goal-setting discussions.
Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the Woven EndoBridge device: mid term and long term results
Authors: Mine Benjamin , Goutte Alexandra , Brisbois Denis , Lubicz Boris
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical and anatomical results of treatment of intracranial aneurysms (IA) with the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device, with emphasis on mid term and long term follow-up.

Methods

Between November 2010 and November 2015, we retrospectively identified, in our prospectively maintained database, all patients treated by WEB device placement for an IA at three institutions. Clinical charts, procedural data, and angiographic results were reviewed.

Results

48 patients with 49 IAs were identified. There were 35 women and 13 men with a mean age of 57 years (range 35–76 years). All IA were wide necked. Mean aneurysm size was 8.6 mm. There were 44 unruptured IA and 5 ruptured IA. During endovascular treatment (EVT), adjunctive devices were used in 22.4% of procedures. A good clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≤2) was achieved in 44/48 patients (92%). There was no mortality. Mean follow-up was 25 months (range 3–72 months; median 24 months). Between mid term and long term follow-up, occlusion was stable in 19/23 IA (82.6%), improved in 2/23 IA (8.7%), and worsened in 2/23 IA (8.7%). Retreatment was performed in 8/49 IA (16.3%). At the latest available follow-up, there were 34/47 (72.3%) complete occlusions and 13/47 (27.7%) neck remnants.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that EVT of IA with the WEB device provides adequate and stable long term occlusion.
The effects of tobacco control policies on retailer sales to minors in the USA, 2015
Authors: Dai Hongying , Hao Jianqiang
Published: February 2017

Background

Under the 2009 Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been routinely inspecting tobacco retailers' compliance with under-age sales laws. We seek to identify factors associated with Retail Violation Rate for sale to minors (RVRm).

Methods

We collected the tobacco retailer inspection data for 2015 from the FDA compliance check database. RVRm was calculated at the census tract level and overlaid with tobacco regulations and youth smoking prevalence at the state level. Multi-level spatial analysis was performed to examine the impacts of tobacco jurisdiction variations, youth smoking rates and neighbourhood social characteristics on RVRm.

Results

A total of 136 816 compliance checks involving minors conducted by the FDA in 2015 were analysed. A higher RVRm was associated with higher youth smoking prevalence (aRR=1.04, p<0.0001). Tobacco regulations show significant relationships with RVRm. For every one dollar increase in cigarette tax per pack, the likelihood of retail violations was reduced by 2% (aRR=0.98, p=0.03). For every 10% increase in tobacco prevention spending towards Centers for Disease Control recommended funding targets, the likelihood of retail violations was reduced by 1% (aRR=0.99, p=0.01). RVRm increased in states that enacted stronger smoke-free air policies (aRR=1.08, p<0.0001).

Conclusion

We observed associations of tobacco regulations and neighbourhood social characteristics with tobacco retailers’ compliance with under-age sales laws. This study provides evidence to support stronger tobacco regulations and control policies in reducing youth access to tobacco products.
Changes in cigarette expenditure minimising strategies before and after a cigarette tax increase
Authors: Choi Kelvin , Boyle Raymond G
Published: February 2017

Background

Smokers use cigarette expenditure minimising strategies (CEMS) to alleviate the effect of tax increases on their cigarette expenses. We examined changes in smokers’ CEMS use before and after a 2013 Minnesota $1.75 cigarette tax increase.

Methods

Data were from representative samples of smokers who participated in the Minnesota Adult Tobacco Survey 2010 (n=948) and 2014 (n=1229). Participants indicated CEMS used in the past year from a list. Weighted multiple logistic regressions were used to examine changes in prevalence of each CEMS use over time adjusting for demographics and cigarette consumption. Characteristics associated with CEMS use in 2014 were examined.

Results

Between 2010 and 2014, more smokers tried to save money on cigarettes by rolling their own cigarettes (from 19% to 29%), using other tobacco products (from 13% to 25%), and buying cigarettes from cheaper places (from 48% to 55%). Yet, fewer smokers used coupons/promotions (from 63% to 50%) and bought cigarettes by the carton (from 39% to 32%). These changes varied somewhat by race/ethnicity and education, for example, more smokers with <high school education used discount brands over time than more educated smokers. CEMS use in 2014 varied by demographics, for example, smokers with lower education were more likely than those with higher education to purchase discount brands, roll their own cigarettes, use coupons/promotions and cut back on smoking (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Socially disadvantaged smokers were most likely to use CEMS and continue smoking after a cigarette tax increase. Regulations that would reduce CEMS use could boost the effectiveness of cigarette tax increases.
Quantifying exposure of linear infrastructures to earthquake-triggered transverse landslides in permafrost thawing slopes
Authors: Dadfar Behrang , El Naggar M. Hesham , Nastev Miroslav
Published: February 2017

Seismic shaking can cause slope instability in otherwise relatively stable permafrost terrains. In addition, rapid ice melting in low-permeability fine-grained soils can lead to excess pore-water pressure build-up and cause instability in slopes even at small angles. This study addresses the active-layer detachment (ALD) slope instability hazard and develops a systematic risk assessment framework for existing and future linear infrastructures, such as energy pipelines, bridges, and roads traversing permafrost regions. Mild slopes, with average gradient of 7°, are considered in this study as the most representative of actual field conditions. The potential for earthquake-triggered ALD is analytically quantified. State-of-the-art ALD morphological statistics for northern Canada are combined with seismic slope stability analyses to determine (i) the probability of linear infrastructure exposure to permanent ground deformations (PGDs) caused by ALD and (ii) the extent of the potential PGD that the linear infrastructure may be subjected to. The Monte Carlo technique is applied to simulate and assess the sensitivity of the model to parameters such as earthquake magnitude and source-to-site distance. Findings from this study can be used to evaluate the vulnerability of linear infrastructures exposed to the ALD hazard.
Evidence for voluminous bimodal pyroclastic volcanism during rifting of a Paleoproterozoic arc at Snow Lake, Manitoba
Authors: Rubingh Kate E. , Gibson Harold L. , Lafrance Bruno
Published: February 2017

The thrust-bounded McLeod Road – Birch Lake (MB) sequence occurs within the Paleoproterozoic Snow Lake arc (SLA) assemblage of the Flin Flon belt. Stratigraphic correlation of volcanic strata of the MB sequence with strata of the thrust-bounded Chisel sequence indicates that distinctive, submarine, eruption-fed, pyroclastic flow deposits are more extensive and voluminous than previously recognized (>10 km3). These voluminous felsic pyroclastic deposits define a distinct magmatic and explosive volcanic event during bimodal volcanism that accompanied rifting of the SLA. The felsic pyroclastic deposits define the remnants of a basin, or of nested basins, that formed during arc rifting and subsidence, and their eruption immediately preceded formation of the Chisel sequence volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits. Although the Chisel sequence ore interval is recognized in the MB sequence, the lack of VMS-related alteration indicates that VMS hydrothermal activity was restricted to the Chisel portion of the basin. However, the MB sequence is host to the younger Snow Lake gold mine, a 1.4M oz (43 699 kg) gold producer. The overlying MORB-like Birch Lake basalts, if conformable with the MB sequence, may represent a progression from a rifted-arc to a back-arc setting. However, if they are thrust fault bounded, then they may represent the initial phases of arc-rifting, prior to the voluminous felsic pyroclastic eruptions. Correlation and integrity of stratigraphy between the thrust-bounded MB and SLA sequences indicates that the bounding thrust faults, which developed during accretionary processes, have less regional significance than previously interpreted.
Comparisons of stable isotope (C, H, N) signatures for revealing organic matter sources and trophic relationships in headwater streams
Authors: Page Henry M. , Cooper Scott D. , Wiseman Sheila W. , Bennett Danuta , Klose Kristie , Sadro Steven , Nelson Craig , Even Thomas
Published: February 2017

We compared the efficacy of stable carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen isotope ratios in identifying the resources used by insect consumers in headwater streams of southern California. We also compared gut contents with consumer stable isotope ratios and mixing model estimates of resource contributions to predator diet. Stable hydrogen isotope ratios (as δ2H) of algivores were well separated from ratios for detritivores, whereas relationships between stable carbon (as δ13C) and nitrogen (as δ15N) ratios of consumers and their expected diets were weaker and more ambiguous. δ2H values of primary consumers more strongly reflected the proportions of their gut contents consisting of algae than δ13C values. Τhe proportions of algivorous prey in predator gut contents increased with mixing model estimates of algivore contributions to predator diet using δ2H but not δ13C values. Our findings support the use of hydrogen isotope ratios in food web studies of streams in southern California and their potential use in assessing the effects of anthropogenic and natural disturbance on basal resource contributions to food webs that might not otherwise be identified using carbon isotope ratios.
The effects of pig manure application on the spread of tetracycline resistance in bulk and cucumber rhizosphere soils: a greenhouse experiment
Authors: Kang Yijun , Hao Yangyang , Xia Dan , Shen Min , Li Qing , Hu Jian
Published: February 2017

It is important to understand the dynamics of tetracycline-resistant bacteria (TRB) and tetracycline resistance genes (TRGs) in bulk and rhizosphere soils for evaluating the spread of TRGs from pig manure to human. In this work, a greenhouse experiment was conducted to investigate the difference in abundance of TRB, tetracycline-resistant Escherichia coli (TRE), tetracycline-resistant Pseudomonas spp. (TRP), and TRGs between bulk and cucumber rhizosphere soils. The application of pig manure resulted in the long-term persistence of TRB, TRE, TRP, and TRGs in bulk soil and rhizosphere of cucumber for at least 65 days. Pig manure application dose was the major driving force in altering the abundances of TRB and TRE, whereas TRP was disturbed mainly by compartment (bulk soil or rhizosphere). Both TRE and the percentage of TRE in bulk and rhizosphere soils increased linearly with an increase in dose of pig manure. The exponential relationships between pig manure dose and TRP along with TRP percentage were also noted. There were significant differences in the relative abundances of TRGs between bulk and cucumber rhizosphere soils, suggesting the use of pig manure exerted a more lasting impact on the spread of TRGs in the rhizosphere than in the bulk soil.
Genetic discontinuity in two high dispersal marine invertebrates in the northwest Atlantic
Authors: Einfeldt Anthony L. , Zhou Felix , Addison Jason A.
Published: February 2017

Oceanic circulation patterns shape both the distribution of species and spatial patterns of intraspecific genetic variation by influencing passively dispersed marine invertebrates. In the northwest Atlantic, strong and consistent currents at the mouth of the Bay of Fundy are expected to restrict dispersal in this region, but the relationship between populations of high dispersal species along the surrounding coastal regions has been largely underrepresented in the phylogeographic literature. We analyzed phylogeographic patterns in two intertidal invertebrates with high dispersal abilities, Tritia obsoleta (Mollusca: Gastropoda) and Macoma petalum (Mollusca: Bivalvia), between Cape Cod and the Gulf of St. Lawrence using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Hierarchical analysis of molecular variance revealed population structuring among regions defined by circulation patterns, highly divergent lineages within M. petalum, and strong concordant genetic subdivision in both species between the Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine. Our results suggest that the gyre at the mouth of the bay is influential in restricting alongshore dispersal, allowing genetic divergence between regions to arise through genetic drift. These findings are concordant with biogeographic and phylogeographic studies of other marine organisms, suggesting that the genetic isolation of widely distributed species may be a common feature of intertidal invertebrate communities in the Bay of Fundy.
Surface diffusion of a Brownian particle subjected to an external harmonic noise
Authors: Bai Zhan-Wu , Ding Li-Ping
Published: February 2017

Langevin simulation is performed to investigate the diffusion coefficient of a Brownian particle subjected to an external harmonic noise in a two-dimensional coupled periodic potential. Resonant diffusion phenomenon is observed as a result of the coupling between the central frequency of the spectral density of the harmonic noise and the frequency of the potential well bottom. The diffusion coefficient presents approximately linear functions of the strengths of the internal and external noises for low values of the strengths, these functions can be understood by the local linearization approximation of the potential force. The damping coefficient dependence of the diffusion coefficient in lower damping is well fitted by a negative power function, as an internal Gaussian white noise case does, but with a power whose absolute value is larger than 1.
Programmable Universal Filters Using Current Conveyor Transconductance Amplifiers
Authors: Nonthaputha Thanat , Kumngern Montree
Published: February 2017

This paper presents new programmable universal biquadratic filters using current conveyor transconductance amplifiers (CCTAs) by which both voltage- and current-mode filters can be obtained. The proposed filters use second-generation current conveyor (CCII) which is the first stage of CCTA to operate as current conveyor analog switch (CCAS) and this CCAS will be used to program the filtering functions such as low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, band-stop and all-pass filters. Unlike previous universal filters, the filtering functions of the proposed filters can be programmed using the bias currents of CCTAs without changing any input and output connections. The natural frequency and quality factor of all filtering functions can be controlled electronically and orthogonally using the bias currents of transconductance amplifiers. Also gain response of all transfer functions can be adjusted. The active and passive sensitivities of the filters are low. The proposed programmable filters have been simulated using 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m CMOS process from TSMC. PSPICE simulation results are included to confirm workability of the proposed circuits.
Synchronization of Chaotic Systems with Time Delays via Periodically Intermittent Control
Authors: Liu Chao , Yang Zheng , Sun Dihua , Liu Xiaoyang , Liu Wanping
Published: February 2017

This paper investigates the exponential synchronization of chaotic systems with time delays via periodically intermittent control. Under the new differential inequality, some novel synchronization criteria are derived. In contrast to the existing works, the proposed results are less conservative because they can obtain more precise synchronized rate under the identical control conditions and remove the restrictions on the control period (or the control width) and the time delay. By using special parameters, the feasible region D(ξ), which guarantees the response system synchronizes with the drive system with synchronized rate 0.5ξ, is obtained. The Lu chaotic attractor and a first-order chaotic system with time delay are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND FISH AVAILABILITY
Authors: TENG PAUL P. S. , LASSA JONATAN , CABALLERO-ANTHONY MELY
Published: February 2017

Human consumption of fish has been trending upwards in the past decades and this is projected to continue. The main sources of fish are from wild fisheries (marine and freshwater) and aquaculture. Climate change is anticipated to affect the availability of fish through its effect on these two sources as well as on supply chain processes such as storage, transport, processing and retail. Climate change is known to result in warmer and more acid oceans. Ocean acidification due to higher CO2 concentration levels at sea modifies the distribution of phytoplankton and zooplankton to affect wild, capture fisheries. Higher temperature causes warm-water coral reefs to respond with species replacement and bleaching, leading to coral cover loss and habitat loss. Global changes in climatic systems may also cause fish invasion, extinction and turnover. While this may be catastrophic for small scale fish farming in poor tropical communities, there are also potential effects on animal protein supply shifts at local and global scales with food security consequences. This paper discusses the potential impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture in the Asian Pacific region, with special emphasis on Southeast Asia. The key question to be addressed is “What are the impacts of global climate change on global fish harvests and what does it mean to the availability of fish?”
Understanding Management Practices in Business Incubators: Empirical Evidence of the Factors Impacting the Incubation Process
Authors: Blok Vincent , Thijssen Sander , Pascucci Stefano
Published: February 2017

Following the call for process-oriented research on business incubation processes, this paper investigates the process of business incubation (BI) via an understanding of management practices and interactions. Based on a comprehensive literature review and empirical evidence of management practices in business incubators ([Formula: see text]) dealing with new technology-based firms (NTBFs), we develop a conceptual model of factors having an impact on the incubation process of NTBFs, including propositions that can be tested in future research. Our results show that a combination of six management practices enables BI managers to accelerate the learning curve of entrepreneurs and the start-up process of their firms. Our results help to theorize about the factors having an impact on the incubation process of NTBFs and the dynamics behind the incubation process, and will enable BI managers to develop practices that really help entrepreneurs in the development of their NTBF.
A model of chronic diabetic polyneuropathy: benefits from intranasal insulin are modified by sex and RAGE deletion
Authors: de la Hoz Cristiane L. , Cheng Chu , Fernyhough Paul , Zochodne Douglas W.
Published: February 2017

Human diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) is a progressive complication of chronic diabetes mellitus. Preliminary evidence has suggested that intranasal insulin, in doses insufficient to alter hyperglycemia, suppresses the development of DPN. In this work we confirm this finding, but demonstrate that its impact is modified by sex and deletion of RAGE, the receptor for advanced glycosylation end products. We serially evaluated experimental DPN in male and female wild-type mice and male RAGE null (RN) mice, each with nondiabetic controls, during 16 wk of diabetes, the final 8 wk including groups given intranasal insulin. Age-matched nondiabetic female mice had higher motor and sensory conduction velocities than their male counterparts and had lesser conduction slowing from chronic diabetes. Intranasal insulin improved slowing in both sexes. In male RN mice, there was less conduction slowing with chronic diabetes, and intranasal insulin provided limited benefits. Rotarod testing and hindpaw grip power offered less consistent impacts. Mechanical sensitivity and thermal sensitivity were respectively but disparately changed and improved with insulin in wild-type female and male mice but not RN male mice. These studies confirm that intranasal insulin improves indexes of experimental DPN but indicates that females with DPN may differ in their underlying phenotype. RN mice had partial but incomplete protection from underlying DPN and lesser impacts from insulin. We also identify an important role for sex in the development of DPN and report evidence that insulin and AGE-RAGE pathways in its pathogenesis may overlap.
Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells in the Periodontitis Microenvironment Are Sensitive to Static Mechanical Strain
Authors: Liu Jia , Li Qiang , Liu Shiyu , Gao Jie , Qin Wen , Song Yang , Jin Zuolin
Published: February 2017

During orthodontic treatment, periodontium remodeling of periodontitis patients under mechanical force was abnormal. We have previously confirmed the function impairment of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) in the periodontitis microenvironment which might be involved in this pathological process. However, the response of PDLSCs in periodontitis microenvironment to mechanical force remains unclear. Therefore, in the present study, we introduced a Flexcell tension apparatus and investigated the response of PDLSCs obtained from periodontal tissues of periodontitis patients (PPDLSCs) and of those obtained from healthy periodontal tissues (HPDLSCs) to different magnitudes of static mechanical strain (SMS). PPDLSCs showed increased proliferation, decreased osteogenic activity, activated osteoclastogenesis, and greater secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Different magnitudes of SMS exerted distinct effects on HPDLSCs and PPDLSCs. An SMS of 12% induced optimal effects in HPDLSCs, including the highest proliferation, the best osteogenic ability, the lowest osteoclastogenesis, and the lowest secretion of inflammatory cytokines, while the optimal SMS for PPDLSCs was 8%. Excessive SMS damaged PPDLSCs function, including decreased proliferation, an imbalance between osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis, and an activated inflammatory response. Our data suggest that PPDLSCs are more sensitive and less tolerant to SMS, and this may explain why mechanical force results in undesirable effects in periodontitis patients.
A New and Efficient Boundary Element‐Free Method for 2‐D Crack Problems
Authors: Yue Jinchao , Chang Liwu , Sun Yuzhou
Published: February 2017

An efficient boundary element‐free method is established for 2‐D crack problems by combining a pair of boundary integral equations and the moving‐least square approximation. The displacement boundary integral equation is collated on the on‐crack boundary, and a new traction boundary integral equation is applied on the crack surface without the separate consideration of the upper and lower sides. In virtue of integration by parts, only singularity in order 1/r is involved in the integral kernels of new traction boundary integral equation, which brings convenience to the numerical implementation. Meanwhile, the integration by parts produces the new variables, the displacement density, and displacement dislocation density, and they are the coexisting unknowns along with the displacement and displacement dislocation. With the high‐order continuity of the moving‐least square approximation, these new variables are directly approximated with the nodal displacement or displacement dislocation, and the final system of equations contains the unknowns of nodal displacements and displacement dislocations only. The boundary element‐free computational scheme is established, and several examples show the efficiency and flexibility of the proposed method.
Properties of Direct Coal Liquefaction Residue Modified Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Ji Jie , Yao Hui , Wang Di , Suo Zhi , Liu Luhou , You Zhanping
Published: February 2017

The objectives of this paper are to use Direct Coal Liquefaction Residue (DLCR) to modify the asphalt binders and mixtures and to evaluate the performance of modified asphalt mixtures. The dynamic modulus and phase angle of DCLR and DCLR-composite modified asphalt mixture were analyzed, and the viscoelastic properties of these modified asphalt mixtures were compared to the base asphalt binder SK-90 and Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) modified asphalt mixtures. The master curves of the asphalt mixtures were shown, and dynamic and viscoelastic behaviors of asphalt mixtures were described using the Christensen-Anderson-Marasteanu (CAM) model. The test results show that the dynamic moduli of DCLR and DCLR-composite asphalt mixtures are higher than those of the SK-90 and SBS modified asphalt mixtures. Based on the viscoelastic parameters of CAM models of the asphalt mixtures, the high- and low-temperature performance of DLCR and DCLR-composite modified asphalt mixtures are obviously better than the SK-90 and SBS modified asphalt mixtures. In addition, the DCLR and DCLR-composite modified asphalt mixtures are more insensitive to the frequency compared to SK-90 and SBS modified asphalt mixtures.
Fractionally Spaced Constant Modulus Equalizer with Recognition Capability for Digital Array Radar
Authors: Wang Feng , Wei Shuang , Jiang Defu
Published: February 2017

Fractionally spaced blind equalizer (BE) based on constant modulus criteria is exploited to compensate for the channel‐to‐channel mismatch in a digital array radar. We apply the technique of recognition to improve the stability and reliability of the BE. The surveillance of the calibration signal and the convergence property of BE are both implemented with recognition description words. BE with cognitive capability is appropriate for the equalization of a digital array radar with thousands of channels and hundreds of working frequencies, where reliability becomes the most concerned indicator. The improvement of performance in the accidental scenarios is tested via numerical simulations with the cost of increased computational complexity.
Analgesic Effects of Preincision Ketamine on Postspinal Caesarean Delivery in Uganda’s Tertiary Hospital: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Mwase Richard , Luggya Tonny Stone , Kasumba John Mark , Wanzira Humphrey , Kintu Andrew , Tindimwebwa Joesph V. B. , Obua Daniel
Published: February 2017

Background. Good postoperative analgesic management improves maternal satisfaction and care of the neonate. Postoperative pain management is a challenge in Mulago Hospital, yet ketamine is accessible and has proven benefit. We determined ketamine’s postoperative analgesic effects.Materials and Methods. We did an RCT among consenting parturients that were randomized to receive either intravenous ketamine (0.25 mg/kg) or placebo after spinal anesthetic. Pain was assessed every 30 mins up to 24 hours postoperatively using the numerical rating scale. The first complaint of pain requiring treatment was noted as “time to first breakthrough pain.”Results. We screened 100 patients and recruited 88 that were randomized into two arms of 44 patients that received either ketamine or placebo. Ketamine group had 30-minute longer time to first breakthrough pain and lower 24-hour pain scores. Postoperative diclofenac consumption was lesser in the ketamine group compared to placebo and Kaplan-Meier graphs showed a higher probability of experiencing breakthrough pain earlier in the placebo group.Conclusion. Preincision intravenous ketamine (0.25 mg/kg) offered 30-minute prolongation to postoperative analgesia requirement with reduced 24-hour pain scores. We recommend larger studies to explore this benefit. This trial is registered with Pan African Clinical Trial Registry numberPACTR201404000807178.
Novel Stability Analysis for Uncertain Neutral‐Type Lur’e Systems with Time‐Varying Delays Using New Inequality
Authors: Wang Yanmeng , Xiong Lianglin , Li Yongkun , Zhang Haiyang , Peng Chen
Published: February 2017

This paper considers the delay‐dependent stability analysis of neutral‐type Lur’e systems with time‐varying delays and sector bounded nonlinearities. First of all, using constructed function methods, a new Jensen‐like inequality is introduced to obtain less conservative results. Second, a new class of Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional (LKF) is constructed according to the characteristic of the considered systems. Third, combining with the new inequality and reciprocal convex approach and some other inequality techniques, the new less conservative robust stability criteria are shown in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, three examples demonstrate the feasibility and the superiority of our methods.
Effect of Fungicide Applications on Grain Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) Growth and Yield
Authors: Fromme Dan D. , Price Trey , Lofton Josh , Isakeit Tom , Schnell Ronnie , Dodla Syam , Stephenson Daniel , Grichar W. James , Shannon Keith
Published: February 2017

Field studies were conducted in the upper Texas Gulf Coast and in central Louisiana during the 2013 through 2015 growing seasons to evaluate the effects of fungicides on grain sorghum growth and development when disease pressure was low or nonexistent. Azoxystrobin and flutriafol at 1.0 L/ha and pyraclostrobin at 0.78 L/ha were applied to the plants of two grain sorghum hybrids (DKS 54-00, DKS 53-67) at 25% bloom and compared with the nontreated check for leaf chlorophyll content, leaf temperature, and plant lodging during the growing season as well as grain mold, test weight, yield, and nitrogen and protein content of the harvested grain. The application of a fungicide had no effect on any of the variables tested with grain sorghum hybrid responses noted. DKS 53-67 produced higher yield, greater test weight, higher percent protein, and N than DKS 54-00. Results of this study indicate that the application of a fungicide when little or no disease is present does not promote overall plant health or increase yield.