bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Rigid, Stress-Free and Yielding Base of a Composite Structure on the Propagation of Rayleigh-Type Wave: A Comparative Approach
Authors: Chattopadhyay A. , Verma A. K. , Chaki M. S. , Singh A. K.
Published: August 2017

In this paper, case wise studies have been made to investigate the possibility of propagation of Rayleigh-type wave in a composite structure comprised of two transversely-isotropic material layers with viscoelastic effect. The common interface between the layers is considered to be rigid whereas the base has been considered as rigid, stress-free and yielding in three different cases (Case-I, II and III). Closed-form of frequency equation and damped velocity equation has been established analytically for propagation of Rayleigh-type wave in a composite structure for all three cases. In special cases, frequency equations and damped velocity equations for the case of composite structure with rigid, stress-free and yielding base have been found in well-agreement to the established standard results pre-existing in the literature. Numerical and graphical computation of phase and damped velocity of Rayleigh-type wave propagating in the composite structure comprised of double transversely-isotropic viscoelastic Taylor sandstone material layers (Model-I) and double isotropic viscoelastic material layers (Model-II) have been carried out. Significant effect of anisotropy and width ratio of layers, dilatational and volume viscoelasticity associated with viscoelasticity of layer medium and yielding parameter associated with yielding base of composite structure on phase and damped velocities of Rayleigh-type wave for the considered models have been traced out. The comparative study has been performed to unravel the effect of viscoelasticity over elasticity and anisotropy over isotropy in the present problem.
New paleoscolecid worms from the early Cambrian north margin of the Yangtze Platform, South China
Authors: Yang Yuning , Zhang Xingliang , Zhao Yuanlong , Qi Yiru , Cui Linhao
Published: August 2017

The Cambrian Yanwangbian assemblage (Series 2, Stage 4) in South Shaanxi, China, is one of the Burgess Shale–type faunas as it represents the only relatively diverse Cambrian biota from the north margin of the Yangzte Platform, South China. The paleoscolecids (Cycloneuralia) illustrated herein are one of the major components of the fauna, although they appear to be much less abundant than skeletonized fossils, according to available collections. A new taxon,Shaanxiscolex xixiangensisnew genus new species, is described based on the scleritome pattern: each annulus has two rows of alternatingHadimopanella-type plates positioned close to the borders, and a mosaic pattern of microplates occurs between the plates and within intersegmental furrows. The occurrence of the new taxon confirms a fairly diversified and widespread distribution of paleoscolecidan worms recognized in the early Cambrian of South China. Moreover, the ecology of paleoscolecids is reappraised based on burial position of theS. xixiangensisand gut contens of Cambrian taxa from South China, hinting that paleoscolecids (at least some taxa) were both deposit feeders and carnivores, as well as active bioturbators in the substrates of the Cambrian sea, which sheds new light on the ‘Cambrian Substrate Revolution.’
Lowland forest collapse and early human impacts at the end of the African Humid Period at Lake Edward, equatorial East Africa
Authors: Ivory Sarah J. , Russell James
Published: August 2017

In Africa, the early Holocene was characterized by wetter, warmer conditions than today, followed by rapid aridification at ~5.2 ka. However, a lack of lowland vegetation records has prevented a detailed evaluation of forest response to Holocene climate change. Additionally, although modern vegetation communities are linked to human disturbance, few studies have addressed how prehistoric human activities helped engineer the character of modern African ecosystems. Understanding the architecture of lowland and highland forests is important to prevent further degradation from climate/land-use change. We present an 11,000 yr fossil pollen record from Lake Edward, Uganda. We show that Guineo-Congolian forests dominated the highlands and lowlands in equatorial East Africa in the early Holocene, highlighting the importance of rainfall and temperature in controlling forest communities. These forests remained until ~5.2 ka, when the climate became drier. The lacustrine ecosystem response to aridification was abrupt; however, forest decreased gradually, replaced by deciduous woodlands. Woodlands dominated until after an arid period at 2 ka; however, forest did not recover. Increased disturbance indicators and grasses suggest that the arrival of Iron Age people resulted in the modern fire-tolerant vegetation. Although late Holocene climate played a role in vegetation opening, the modern ecosystem architecture in East Africa is linked to early human activities.
“But it is not getting any safer!”: The Contested Dynamic of Framing Canada's Military Mission in Afghanistan
Authors: DeCillia Brooks
Published: August 2017

The Canadian government and military struggled to control its media framing of the war in Afghanistan between 2006 and 2009. This content analysis (n= 900) critically investigates the mediated dynamic of framing Canada's military mission in Afghanistan. This study found that while journalists overwhelmingly indexed their stories to elite sources, they frequently impeached the frames sponsored by government and military leaders. Journalists used elite criteria to fact check the frames of military and government leaders. Most of the coverage was episodic and event-oriented rather than thematic and contextual. While Canadian journalists challenged official claims of improving security, for instance, their coverage lacked context and critical appraisal of Canada's military mission in Afghanistan, raising questions about journalism's normative role in Canadian democracy.
Occurrence and diversity of arthropod-transmitted pathogens in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in western Austria, and possible vertical (transplacental) transmission ofHepatozoon canis
Authors: HODŽIĆ ADNAN , MROWIETZ NAIKE , CÉZANNE RITA , BRUCKSCHWAIGER PIA , PUNZ SYLVIA , HABLER VERENA ELISABETH , TOMSIK VALENTINA , LAZAR JUDIT , DUSCHER GEORG G. , GLAWISCHNIG WALTER , FUEHRER HANS-PETER
Published: August 2017

Red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the most abundant wild canid species in Austria, and it is a well-known carrier of many pathogens of medical and veterinary concern. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence and diversity of protozoan, bacterial and filarial parasites transmitted by blood-feeding arthropods in a red fox population in western Austria. Blood (n= 351) and spleen (n= 506) samples from foxes were examined by PCR and sequencing and the following pathogens were identified:Babesia canis,Babesiacf.microti(syn.Theileria annae),Hepatozoon canis,Anaplasma phagocytophilum,CandidatusNeoehrlichia sp. andBartonella rochalimae. Blood was shown to be more suitable for detection ofBabesiacf.microti, whilst the spleen tissue was better for detection ofH. canisthan blood. Moreover, extremely low genetic variability ofH. canisand its relatively low prevalence rate observed in this study may suggest that the parasite has only recently been introduced in the sampled area. Furthermore, the data presented here demonstrates, for the first time, the possible vertical transmission ofH. canisfrom an infected vixen to the offspring, and this could explain the very high prevalence in areas considered free of its main tick vector(s).
Application of a generalized finite difference method to mould filling process
Authors: RESÉNDIZ-FLORES E. O. , KUHNERT J. , SAUCEDO-ZENDEJO F. R.
Published: August 2017

This paper proposes the use of a generalized finite difference method for the numerical simulation of free surface single phase flows during mould filling process which are common in some industrial processes particularly in the area of metal casting. A novel and efficient idea for the computation of the normal vectors for free surface flows is introduced and presented for the first time. The incompressible Navier–Stokes equations are numerically solved by the well-known Chorin's projection method. After we showed the main ideas behind the meshless approach, some numerical results in two and three dimensions are presented corresponding to mould filling process simulation.
Successful vitrification of whole juvenile testis in the critically endangered cyprinid honmoroko (Gnathopogon caerulescens)
Authors: Higaki Shogo , Kuwata Natsue , Tanaka Kotaro , Tooyama Ikuo , Fujioka Yasuhiro , Sakai Noriyoshi , Takada Tatsuyuki
Published: August 2017

Sperm cryopreservation is a valuable conservation method for endangered fish species. Here we report an easy and efficient cryopreservation method for juvenile whole testis by vitrification and successful sperm production from the vitrified whole testis viain vitrospermatogenesis in the critically endangered cyprinid honmoroko (Gnathopogon caerulescens). Juvenile testis (approximately 10 mm in length and 1 mm in width), consisting predominantly of spermatogonia, were aseptically dissected out and adherent fatty and non-testicular tissues were subsequently removed. Then, the testes were rapidly cooled on a nylon mesh by direct immersion in liquid nitrogen after serial exposures to pretreatment solution (PS), containing 2 M ethylene glycol (EG) and 1 M dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), for 20 or 30 min and vitrification solution (VS), containing 3 M EG, 2 M DMSO, and 0.5 M sucrose, for 5, 10, or 20 min. The highest survival rate of testicular cells (84.0%) was obtained from testes vitrified by immersion in PS for 20 min and in VS for 10 min. Spermatogonia were recovered from the vitrified testis by dissociation and cell culture produced many haploid sperm. Fertility and developmental competence were confirmed byin vitrofertilization assays. These results indicate that the vitrification of juvenile whole testis provides a new strategy to preserve the genetic resources of endangered fishes without affecting their reproductive population.
Lemaza: An Arabic why-question answering system
Authors: AZMI AQIL M. , ALSHENAIFI NOUF A.
Published: August 2017

Question answering systems retrieve information from documents in response to queries. Most of the questions arewho-andwhat-type questions that deal with named entities. A less common and more challenging question to deal with is thewhy-question. In this paper, we introduceLemaza(Arabic forwhy), a system for automatically answeringwhy-questions for Arabic texts. The system is composed of four main components that make use of the Rhetorical Structure Theory. To evaluateLemaza, we prepared a set ofwhy-question–answer pairs whose answer can be found in a corpus that we compiled out of Open Source Arabic Corpora.Lemazaperformed best when the stop-words were not removed. The performance measure was 72.7%, 79.2% and 78.7% for recall, precision andc@1, respectively.
Systematic Review of Published Primary Studies of Neuropsychology and Neuroimaging in Trichotillomania
Authors: Slikboer Reneta , Reser Maree P. , Nedeljkovic Maja , Castle David J. , Rossell Susan L.
Published: August 2017

Objectives: Existing models of trichotillomania (TTM; hair pulling disorder) rely heavily on a biological predisposition or biological pathogenesis of the disorder, but fail to capture the specific neuropsychological mechanisms involved. The present systematic review aims to scope existing neuropsychological studies of TTM to explore gaps in current models. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted to detect all published primary studies using neuropsychological and neuroimaging measures in a cohort of individuals experiencing TTM. Studies addressing neuropsychological function were divided into domains. Findings from imaging studies were considered within brain regions and across methodology. Results: Thirty studies with a combined 591 participants with TTM, 372 healthy controls and 225 participants in other types of control group were included. Sixteen studies investigated neuropsychological parameters, and 14 studies pursued neuroimaging technologies. Available studies that used neuropsychological assessments and reported a statistically significant difference between those with TTM and controls ranged in effect size from 0.25 to 1.58. All domains except verbal ability and visual ability reported a deficit. In neuroimaging studies, several structural and functional brain changes were reported that might be of significance to TTM. Only tentative conclusions can be made due to the use of multiple methodologies across studies, a major limitation to meaningful interpretations. Conclusions: Positive neuropsychological and neuroimaging results require replication, preferably with multi-site studies using standardized methodology. Increased standardized testing and analyses across the literature, as a whole, would improve the utility and interpretability of knowledge in this field. (JINS, 2018, 24, 188–205)
Association of vegetarian diet with inflammatory biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Haghighatdoost Fahimeh , Bellissimo Nick , Totosy de Zepetnek Julia O , Rouhani Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2017

Objective

Vegetarian diets contain various anti-inflammatory components. We aimed to investigate the effects of vegetarianism on inflammatory biomarkers when compared with omnivores.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Setting

Literature search was conducted in Science Direct, Proquest, MEDLINE and Google Scholar up to June 2016. Summary estimates and corresponding 95 % CI were derived via the DerSimonian and Laird method using random effects, subgroup analyses were run to find the source of heterogeneity and a fixed-effect model examined between-subgroup heterogeneity.

Subjects

Studies were included if they evaluated effects of any type of vegetarianism compared with omnivores on circulating levels of inflammatory biomarkers. No restriction was made in terms of language or the date of study publications.

Results

Eighteen articles were included. Pooled effect size showed no difference in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in vegetarians v. omnivores (Hedges’ g=−0·15; 95 % CI −0·35, 0·05), with high heterogeneity (I2=75·6 %, P<0·01). A subgroup analysis by minimum duration of vegetarianism showed that a minimum duration of 2 years vegetarianism was associated with lower hs-CRP levels v. omnivores (Hedges’ g=−0·29; 95 % CI −0·59, 0·01), with moderate heterogeneity (I2=68·9 %, P<0·01). No significant effect was found in studies using a minimum duration of 6 months of vegetarianism, with low heterogeneity. Vegetarianism was associated with increased IL-6 concentrations (0·21 pg/ml; 95 % CI 0·18, 0·25), with no heterogeneity (I2=0·0 %, P=0·60).

Conclusions

The meta-analysis provides evidence that vegetarianism is associated with lower serum concentrations of hs-CRP when individuals follow a vegetarian diet for at least 2 years. Further research is necessary to draw appropriate conclusions regarding potential associations between vegetarianism and IL-6 levels. A vegetarian diet might be a useful approach to manage inflammaging in the long term.
Inspecting Maude variants withGLINTS
Authors: ALPUENTE M. , ESCOBAR S. , SAPIÑA J. , CUENCA-ORTEGA A.
Published: August 2017

This paper introducesGLINTS, a graphical tool for exploring variant narrowing computations in Maude. The most recent version of Maude, version 2.7.1, provides quite sophisticated unification features, including order-sorted equational unification for convergent theories modulo axioms such as associativity, commutativity, and identity. This novel equational unification relies on built-in generation of the set ofvariantsof a termt, i.e., the canonical form oftσ for a computed substitution σ. Variant generation relies on a novel narrowing strategy calledfolding variant narrowingthat opens up new applications in formal reasoning, theorem proving, testing, protocol analysis, and model checking, especially when the theory satisfies thefinite variant property, i.e., there is a finite number of most general variants for every term in the theory. However, variant narrowing computations can be extremely involved and are simply presented in text format by Maude, often being too heavy to be debugged or even understood. TheGLINTSsystem provides support for (i) determining whether a given theory satisfies the finite variant property, (ii) thoroughly exploring variant narrowing computations, (iii) automatic checking of nodeembeddingandclosednessmodulo axioms, and (iv) querying and inspecting selected parts of the variant trees.
Paid employment and common mental disorders in 50–64-year olds: analysis of three cross-sectional nationally representative survey samples in 1993, 2000 and 2007
Authors: Perera G. , Di Gessa G. , Corna L. M. , Glaser K. , Stewart R.
Published: August 2017

Aims.

Associations between employment status and mental health are well recognised, but evidence is sparse on the relationship between paid employment and mental health in the years running up to statutory retirement ages using robust mental health measures. In addition, there has been no investigation into the stability over time in this relationship: an important consideration if survey findings are used to inform future policy. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between employment status and common mental disorder (CMD) in 50–64-year old residents in England and its stability over time, taking advantage of three national mental health surveys carried out over a 14-year period.

Methods.

Data were analysed from the British National Surveys of Psychiatric Morbidity of 1993, 2000 and 2007. Paid employment status was the primary exposure of interest and CMD the primary outcome – both ascertained identically in all three surveys (CMD from the revised Clinical Interview Schedule). Multivariable logistic regression models were used.

Results.

The prevalence of CMD was higher in people not in paid employment across all survey years; however, this association was only present for non-employment related to poor health as an outcome and was not apparent in those citing other reasons for non-employment. Odds ratios for the association between non-employment due to ill health and CMD were 3.05 in 1993, 3.56 in 2000, and 2.80 in 2007, after adjustment for age, gender, marital status, education, social class, housing tenure, financial difficulties, smoking status, recent physical health consultation and activities of daily living impairment.

Conclusions.

The prevalence of CMD was higher in people not in paid employment for health reasons, but was not associated with non-employment for other reasons. Associations had been relatively stable in strength from 1993 to 2007 in those three cross-sectional nationally representative samples.
Postemergence Control and Glyphosate Tolerance of Doveweed (Murdannia nudiflora)
Authors: Atkinson Jeffrey L. , McCarty Lambert B. , Powell Brian A. , McElroy Scott , Yelverton Fred , Estes Alan G.
Published: August 2017

Doveweed is a problematic weed of lawns and sod production, as well as golf course roughs, fairways, and tees. End-user reports of selective POST control options are inconsistent and control is often short-lived. In addition, inconsistent control with non-selective herbicides such as glyphosate is common. The goals of this research were: (1) evaluate selective POST doveweed control options in ‘Tifway’ hybrid bermudagrass turf; (2) compare efficacy of single vs. sequential applications of selective POST herbicides; (3) quantify doveweed tolerance to glyphosate; and (4) quantify recovery of foliar applied glyphosate following treatment with a C14-glyphosate solution. A single application of sulfentrazone+metsulfuron; thiencarbazone+iodosulfuron+dicamba or 2,4-D+MCPP+dicamba+carfentrazone; or thiencarbazone+foramsulfuron+halosulfuron provided >60% control 2 weeks after initial treatment (WAIT). A second application of these treatments 3 WAIT improved control 6 WAIT. Two applications of 2,4-D+MCPP+dicamba+carfentrazone or thiencarbazone+foramsulfuron+halosulfuron provided ~80% control 6 WAIT. Doveweed was tolerant to glyphosate application up to 5.68 kgaeha-1. Absorption of 14C-glyphosate was compared between doveweed with cuticle intact, doveweed with a disturbed cuticle, and smooth crabgrass. 14C-glyphosate recovery from the leaf surface of doveweed plants with an intact cuticle was 93.6%. In comparison, 14C-glyphosate recovery from the leaf surface of doveweed plants with a disrupted cuticle and the leaf surface of crabgrass plants was 79.1 and 70.5%, respectively.
Time of Application Influences Translocation of Auxinic Herbicides in Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri)
Authors: Johnston Christopher R. , Eure Peter M. , Grey Timothy L. , Culpepper A. Stanley , Vencill William K.
Published: August 2017

The efficacy of WSSA Group 4 herbicides has been reported to vary with dependence on the time of day the application is made, which may affect the value of this mechanism of action as a control option and resistance management tool for Palmer amaranth. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effect of time of day for application on 2,4-D and dicamba translocation and whether or not altering translocation affected any existing variation in phytotoxicity seen across application time of day. Maximum translocation (Tmax) of [14C]2,4-D and [14C]dicamba out of the treated leaf was significantly increased 52% and 29% to 34% in one of two repeated experiments for each herbicide, respectively, with application at 7:00 AM compared with applications at 2:00 PM and/or 12:00 AM. Applications at 7:00 AM increased [14C]2,4-D distribution to roots and increased [14C]dicamba distribution above the treated leaf compared with other application timings. In phytotoxicity experiments, dicamba application at 8 h after exposure to darkness (HAED) resulted in significantly lower dry root biomass than dicamba application at 8 h after exposure to light (HAEL). Contrasts indicated that injury resulting from dicamba application at 8 HAEL, corresponding to midday, was significantly reduced with a root treatment of 5-[N-(3,4-dimethoxyphenylethyl)methylamino]-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-isopropylvaleronitrile hydrochloride (verapamil) compared with injury observed with dicamba application and a root treatment of verapamil at 8 HAED, which corresponded to dawn. Overall, time of application appears to potentially influence translocation of 2,4-D and dicamba. Furthermore, inhibition of translocation appears to somewhat influence variation in phytotoxicity across times of application. Therefore, translocation may be involved in the varying efficacy of WSSA Group 4 herbicides due to application time of day, which has implications for the use of this mechanism of action for effective control and resistance management of Palmer amaranth.
First Case of Multiple Resistance to Glyphosate and PPO-inhibiting Herbicides in Rigid Ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) in Spain
Authors: Fernandez-Moreno Pablo Tomas , Rojano-Delgado Antonia Maria , Menendez Julio , De Prado Rafael
Published: August 2017

Five rigid ryegrass populations suspected of being resistant to both glyphosate and oxyfluorfen were collected in southern Spain and tested under laboratory-controlled conditions. Four populations (Depuradora, Condado, AlamoRasilla, and Portichuelo) were treated with glyphosate for at least 15 consecutive years, and treatments during the last 5 yr were mixed with oxyfluorfen. The fifth population (4alamos) followed the same glyphosate treatment, although oxyfluorfen was never used to control it. Dose–response assays confirmed glyphosate resistance in all populations, with resistance indexes ranging from 11.7 to 37.5 (GR90). Shikimate accumulation assays consistently supported these data, as the most glyphosate-resistant populations (Depuradora and Condado) displayed the lowest shikimate levels. Surprisingly, four populations (Depuradora, Condado, AlamoRasilla, and Portichuelo) displayed 7.93- to 70.18-fold more resistance (GR90) to oxyfluorfen, despite limited selection pressure, showing a similar resistance pattern as that for glyphosate. The 4alamos population displayed oxyfluorfen GR90values that were similar to those observed in susceptible plants; however, this population was significantly more resistant in terms of plant survival (LD90). Protoporphyrin IX accumulation assays supported the results of dose–response assays, in that the most oxyfluorfen-resistant populations accumulated less protoporphyrin IX. Although more studies are needed, it seems that these five glyphosate-resistant weed populations display a natural tendency to easily develop resistance to oxyfluorfen, with the populations that have higher resistance to glyphosate also having higher resistance to oxyfluorfen.
New Evidence Challenges Prevailing Views on Marine Carbon Flux
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: August 2017

Small, slow-sinking organic particles may play a bigger role than previously thought in the transport of carbon below the surface ocean.
Lab- and Field-Based Approaches to Meaning Threats and Restoration: Convergences and Divergences
Authors: Park Crystal L. , George Login S.
Published: August 2017

Two distinct approaches to meaning—experimental lab-based research on meaning and its maintenance in response to situational cues and observational field research on meaning-focused coping following highly stressful or traumatic situations—have both produced important insights into the mechanics underlying responses to meaning-relevant threats. It has been suggested that although these 2 approaches focus on different, specific aspects of meaning, they converge on common underlying phenomena. The present article considers how lab-based and field-based approaches align and diverge on their answers to 4 questions: (1) How is meaning defined in the context of meaning violation and restoration? (2) What are threats to meaning? (3) How do people respond to these threats? and (4) Why does meaning restoration matter? Our comparison of these lab- and field-based approaches suggests that they share considerable commonalities in conceptualization, but they diverge in important ways in terms of emphasis and empirical considerations. We conclude that lab- and field-based approaches to meaning violation and restoration may be focusing on the same phenomena studied at different levels, but with some qualitative differences, and we offer suggestions for how lab- and field-based approaches can better inform one another. Considering these two approaches conjointly provides a more holistic and comprehensive understanding of the fundamental phenomena of meaning threat and restoration.
CHAC2, downregulated in gastric and colorectal cancers, acted as a tumor suppressor inducing apoptosis and autophagy through unfolded protein response
Authors: Liu Shuiping , Fei Weiqiang , Shi Qinglan , Li Qiang , Kuang Yeye , Wang Chan , He Chao , Hu Xiaotong
Published: August 2017

Tumor suppressor genes play a key role in cancer pathogenesis. Through massive expression profiling we identified CHAC2 as a frequently downregulated gene in gastric and colorectal cancers. Immunohistochemistry and western blot revealed that CHAC2 was downregulated in most tumor tissues, and 3-year survival rate of patients with high CHAC2 expression was significantly higher than that of patients with low CHAC2 expression (P<0.001 and P=0.001, respectively). The data of univariate analysis and multivariate analysis suggested that CHAC2 could serve as an independent prognostic marker. Our results showed for the first time that CHAC2 was degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and CHAC2 expression inhibited tumor cell growth, proliferation, migration in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic study showed that CHAC2 induced mitochondrial apoptosis and autophagy through unfolded protein response. So in gastric and colorectal cancer CHAC2 acted as a tumor suppressor and might have therapeutic implication for patients.
Long noncoding RNA XIST expedites metastasis and modulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer
Authors: Chen Dong-liang , Chen Le-zong , Lu Yun-xin , Zhang Dong-sheng , Zeng Zhao-lei , Pan Zhi-zhong , Huang Peng , Wang Feng-hua , Li Yu-hong , Ju Huai-qiang , Xu Rui-hua
Published: August 2017

Tumor progression and metastasis is the main cause of death in colorectal cancer (CRC). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical regulators in various diseases including human cancer. In this study, we found that lncRNA XIST was overexpressed in CRC cell lines and tissues. High expression of lncRNA XIST was associated with adverse overall survival in CRC patients. Knockdown of lncRNA XIST remarkably inhibited CRC cell proliferation, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and CRC stem cell formation in vitro as well as tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Further study indicated that knockdown of lncRNA XIST markedly increased the expression of microRNA-200b-3p (miR-200b-3p) that has been found to be downregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines, and luciferase activity assay indicated that lncRNA XIST could bind directly with miR-200b-3p. Moreover, knockdown of lncRNA XIST significantly reduced the expression of ZEB1, which was the direct target of miR-200b-3p, and the tumor suppressive effects caused by knockdown of lncRNA XIST could be rescued by re-expression of ZEB1 in CRC cells. Overall, our study demonstrated how lncRNA XIST regulates CRC progression and metastasis by competing for miR-200b-3p to modulate the expression of ZEB1. lncRNA XIST may be used as a biomarker to predict prognosis in CRC patients.
Retinol saturase coordinates liver metabolism by regulating ChREBP activity
Authors: Heidenreich Steffi , Witte Nicole , Weber Pamela , Goehring Isabel , Tolkachov Alexander , von Loeffelholz Christian , Döcke Stephanie , Bauer Michael , Stockmann Martin , Pfeiffer Andreas F. H. , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Pietzke Matthias , Kempa Stefan , Muenzner Matthias , Schupp Michael
Published: August 2017

The liver integrates multiple metabolic pathways to warrant systemic energy homeostasis. An excessive lipogenic flux due to chronic dietary stimulation contributes to the development of hepatic steatosis, dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia. Here we show that the oxidoreductase retinol saturase (RetSat) is involved in the development of fatty liver. Hepatic RetSat expression correlates with steatosis and serum triglycerides (TGs) in humans. Liver-specific depletion of RetSat in dietary obese mice lowers hepatic and circulating TGs and normalizes hyperglycemia. Mechanistically, RetSat depletion reduces the activity of carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP), a cellular hexose-phosphate sensor and inducer of lipogenesis. Defects upon RetSat depletion are rescued by ectopic expression of ChREBP but not by its putative enzymatic product 13,14-dihydroretinol, suggesting that RetSat affects hepatic glucose sensing independent of retinol conversion. Thus, RetSat is a critical regulator of liver metabolism functioning upstream of ChREBP. Pharmacological inhibition of liver RetSat may represent a therapeutic approach for steatosis.
Artificial web of disclination lines in nematic liquid crystals
Authors: Wang Mengfei , Li Yannian , Yokoyama Hiroshi
Published: August 2017

Disclinations are topological singularities of molecular arrangement in liquid crystals, which typically occur when the average orientation of molecules makes aπrotation along a fictitious closed loop taken inside the liquid crystal. Depending on the sense of molecular rotation, the disclination lines are either of 1/2 or −1/2 strength. When two disclination lines with the opposite strength meet, they are annihilated without trace. It is hence generally considered difficult in the nematic phase to stabilize a condensed array of free-standing disclination lines without the aid of topological objects like colloidal inclusions. Here we show that a free-standing web of 1/2-strength twist disclination lines can be stably formed in thin liquid crystal cells by means of a judicious combination of orientationally patterned confining surfaces fabricated by the micropatterned photoalignment technique. Theoretical model indicates that disclination lines are held apart at the intersection by a repulsive force generated by the Frank elasticity.
DNA repair deficiency biomarkers and the 70-gene ultra-high risk signature as predictors of veliparib/carboplatin response in the I-SPY 2 breast cancer trial
Authors: Wolf Denise M. , Yau Christina , Sanil Ashish , Glas Annuska , Petricoin Emanuel , Wulfkuhle Julia , Severson Tesa M. , Linn Sabine , Brown-Swigart Lamorna , Hirst Gillian , Buxton Meredith , DeMichele Angela , Hylton Nola , Symmans Fraser , Yee Doug , Paoloni Melissa , Esserman Laura , Berry Don , Rugo Hope , Olopade Olufunmilayo , van ‘t Veer Laura
Published: August 2017

Veliparib combined with carboplatin (VC) was an experimental regimen evaluated in the biomarker-rich neoadjuvant I-SPY 2 trial for breast cancer. VC showed improved efficacy in the triple negative signature. However, not all triple negative patients achieved pathologic complete response and some HR+HER2− patients responded. Pre-specified analysis of five DNA repair deficiency biomarkers (BRCA1/2 germline mutation; PARPi-7, BRCA1ness, and CIN70 expression signatures; and PARP1 protein) was performed on 116 HER2− patients (VC: 72 and concurrent controls: 44). We also evaluated the 70-gene ultra-high risk signature (MP1/2), one of the biomarkers used to define subtype in the trial. We used logistic modeling to assess biomarker performance. Successful biomarkers were combined using a simple voting scheme to refine the ‘predicted sensitive’ group and Bayesian modeling used to estimate the pathologic complete response rates. BRCA1/2 germline mutation status associated with VC response, but its low prevalence precluded further evaluation. PARPi-7, BRCA1ness, and MP1/2 specifically associated with response in the VC arm but not the control arm. Neither CIN70 nor PARP1 protein specifically predicted VC response. When we combined the PARPi-7 and MP1/2 classifications, the 42% of triple negative patients who were PARPi7-high and MP2 had an estimated pCR rate of 75% in the VC arm. Only 11% of HR+/HER2− patients were PARPi7-high and MP2; but these patients were also more responsive to VC with estimated pathologic complete response rates of 41%. PARPi-7, BRCA1ness and MP1/2 signatures may help refine predictions of VC response, thereby improving patient care.
Mining novel starch-converting Glycoside Hydrolase 70 enzymes from the Nestlé Culture Collection genome database: The Lactobacillus reuteri NCC 2613 GtfB
Authors: Gangoiti Joana , van Leeuwen Sander S. , Meng Xiangfeng , Duboux Stéphane , Vafiadi Christina , Pijning Tjaard , Dijkhuizen Lubbert
Published: August 2017

The Glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 70 originally was established for glucansucrases of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) converting sucrose into α-glucan polymers. In recent years we have identified 3 subfamilies of GH70 enzymes (designated GtfB, GtfC and GtfD) as 4,6-α-glucanotransferases, cleaving (α1 → 4)-linkages in maltodextrins/starch and synthesizing new (α1 → 6)-linkages. In this work, 106 putative GtfBs were identified in the Nestlé Culture Collection genome database with ~2700 genomes, and the L. reuteri NCC 2613 one was selected for further characterization based on variations in its conserved motifs. Using amylose the L. reuteri NCC 2613 GtfB synthesizes a low-molecular-mass reuteran-like polymer consisting of linear (α1 → 4) sequences interspersed with (α1 → 6) linkages, and (α1 → 4,6) branching points. This product specificity is novel within the GtfB subfamily, mostly comprising 4,6-α-glucanotransferases synthesizing consecutive (α1 → 6)-linkages. Instead, its activity resembles that of the GtfD 4,6-α-glucanotransferases identified in non-LAB strains. This study demonstrates the potential of large-scale genome sequence data for the discovery of enzymes of interest for the food industry. The L. reuteri NCC 2613 GtfB is a valuable addition to the starch-converting GH70 enzyme toolbox. It represents a new evolutionary intermediate between families GH13 and GH70, and provides further insights into the structure-function relationships of the GtfB subfamily enzymes.
Mitogenome Sequencing in the Genus Camelus Reveals Evidence for Purifying Selection and Long-term Divergence between Wild and Domestic Bactrian Camels
Authors: Mohandesan Elmira , Fitak Robert R. , Corander Jukka , Yadamsuren Adiya , Chuluunbat Battsetseg , Abdelhadi Omer , Raziq Abdul , Nagy Peter , Stalder Gabrielle , Walzer Chris , Faye Bernard , Burger Pamela A.
Published: August 2017

The genusCamelusis an interesting model to study adaptive evolution in the mitochondrial genome, as the three extant Old World camel species inhabit hot and low-altitude as well as cold and high-altitude deserts. We sequenced 24 camel mitogenomes and combined them with three previously published sequences to study the role of natural selection under different environmental pressure, and to advance our understanding of the evolutionary history of the genusCamelus. We confirmed the heterogeneity of divergence across different components of the electron transport system. Lineage-specific analysis of mitochondrial protein evolution revealed a significant effect of purifying selection in the concatenated protein-coding genes in domestic Bactrian camels. The estimateddN/dS < 1 in the concatenated protein-coding genes suggested purifying selection as driving force for shaping mitogenome diversity in camels. Additional analyses of the functional divergence in amino acid changes between species-specific lineages indicated fixed substitutions in various genes, with radical effects on the physicochemical properties of the protein products. The evolutionary time estimates revealed a divergence between domestic and wild Bactrian camels around 1.1 [0.58–1.8] million years ago (mya). This has major implications for the conservation and management of the critically endangered wild species,Camelus ferus.
Measuring proteins with greater speed and resolution while reducing sample size
Authors: Hsieh Vincent H. , Wyatt Philip J.
Published: August 2017

A multi-angle light scattering (MALS) system, combined with chromatographic separation, directly measures the absolute molar mass, size and concentration of the eluate species. The measurement of these crucial properties in solution is essential in basic macromolecular characterization and all research and production stages of bio-therapeutic products. We developed a new MALS methodology that has overcome the long-standing, stubborn barrier to microliter-scale peak volumes and achieved the highest resolution and signal-to-noise performance of any MALS measurement. The novel design simultaneously facilitates online dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements. As National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) new protein standard reference material (SRM 8671) is becoming the benchmark molecule against which many biomolecular analytical techniques are assessed and evaluated, we present its measurement results as a demonstration of the unique capability of our system to swiftly resolve and measure sharp (20~25 µL full-width-half-maximum) chromatography peaks. Precise measurements of protein mass and size can be accomplished 10 times faster than before with improved resolution. In the meantime the sample amount required for such measurements is reduced commensurately. These abilities will have far-reaching impacts at every stage of the development and production of biologics and bio-therapeutic formulations.
The Influence of Different Maternal Microbial Communities on the Development of Infant Gut and Oral Microbiota
Authors: Drell Tiina , Štšepetova Jelena , Simm Jaak , Rull Kristiina , Aleksejeva Aira , Antson Anne , Tillmann Vallo , Metsis Madis , Sepp Epp , Salumets Andres , Mändar Reet
Published: August 2017

Very few studies have analyzed how the composition of mother’s microbiota affects the development of infant’s gut and oral microbiota during the first months of life. Here, microbiota present in the mothers’ gut, vagina, breast milk, oral cavity, and mammary areola were compared with the gut and oral microbiota of their infants over the first six months following birth. Samples were collected from the aforementioned body sites from seven mothers and nine infants at three different time points over a 6-month period. Each sample was analyzed with 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The gut microbiota of the infants harbored distinct microbial communities that had low similarity with the various maternal microbiota communities. In contrast, the oral microbiota of the infants exhibited high similarity with the microbiota of the mothers’ breast milk, mammary areola and mouth. These results demonstrate that constant contact between microbial communities increases their similarity. A majority of the operational taxonomic units in infant gut and oral microbiota were also shared with the mothers’ gut and oral communities, respectively. The disparity between the similarity and the proportion of the OTUs shared between infants’ and mothers’ gut microbiota might be related to lower diversity and therefore competition in infants’ gut microbiota.
Diversification dynamics of rhynchostomatian ciliates: the impact of seven intrinsic traits on speciation and extinction in a microbial group
Authors: Vďačný Peter , Rajter Ľubomír , Shazib Shahed Uddin Ahmed , Jang Seok Won , Shin Mann Kyoon
Published: August 2017

Ciliates are a suitable microbial model to investigate trait-dependent diversification because of their comparatively complex morphology and high diversity. We examined the impact of seven intrinsic traits on speciation, extinction, and net-diversification of rhynchostomatians, a group of comparatively large, predatory ciliates with proboscis carrying a dorsal brush (sensoric structure) and toxicysts (organelles used to kill the prey). Bayesian estimates under the binary-state speciation and extinction model indicate that two types of extrusomes and two-rowed dorsal brush raise diversification through decreasing extinction. On the other hand, the higher number of contractile vacuoles and their dorsal location likely increase diversification via elevating speciation rate. Particular nuclear characteristics, however, do not significantly differ in their diversification rates and hence lineages with various macronuclear patterns and number of micronuclei have similar probabilities to generate new species. Likelihood-based quantitative state diversification analyses suggest that rhynchostomatians conform to Cope’s rule in that their diversity linearly grows with increasing body length and relative length of the proboscis. Comparison with other litostomatean ciliates indicates that rhynchostomatians are not among the cladogenically most successful lineages and their survival over several hundred million years could be associated with their comparatively large and complex bodies that reduce the risk of extinction.
Determination of the physiological and pathological roles of E2F3 in adult tissues
Authors: Gamper Ivonne , Burkhart Deborah L. , Bywater Megan J. , Garcia Daniel , Wilson Catherine H. , Kreuzaler Peter A. , Arends Mark J. , Zheng Yao-Wu , Perfetto Alessandra , Littlewood Trevor D. , Evan Gerard I.
Published: August 2017

While genetically engineered mice have made an enormous contribution towards the elucidation of human disease, it has hitherto not been possible to tune up or down the level of expression of any endogenous gene. Here we describe compound genetically modified mice in which expression of the endogenous E2f3 gene may be either reversibly elevated or repressed in adult animals by oral administration of tetracycline. This technology is, in principle, applicable to any endogenous gene, allowing direct determination of both elevated and reduced gene expression in physiological and pathological processes. Applying this switchable technology to the key cell cycle transcription factor E2F3, we demonstrate that elevated levels of E2F3 drive ectopic proliferation in multiple tissues. By contrast, E2F3 repression has minimal impact on tissue proliferation or homeostasis in the majority of contexts due to redundancy of adult function with E2F1 and E2F2. In the absence of E2F1 and E2F2, however, repression of E2F3 elicits profound reduction of proliferation in the hematopoietic compartments that is rapidly lethal in adult animals.
Celecoxib normalizes the tumor microenvironment and enhances small nanotherapeutics delivery to A549 tumors in nude mice
Authors: Zhang Bo , Jin Kai , Jiang Ting , Wang Lanting , Shen Shun , Luo Zimiao , Tuo Yanyan , Liu Xianping , Hu Yu , Pang Zhiqing
Published: August 2017

Barriers presented by the tumor microenvironment including the abnormal tumor vasculature and interstitial matrix invariably lead to heterogeneous distribution of nanotherapeutics. Inspired by the close association between cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumor-associated angiogenesis, as well as tumor matrix formation, we proposed that tumor microenvironment normalization by COX-2 inhibitors might improve the distribution and efficacy of nanotherapeutics for solid tumors. The present study represents the first time that celecoxib, a special COX-2 inhibitor widely used in clinics, was explored to normalize the tumor microenvironment and to improve tumor nanotherapeutics delivery using a human-derived A549 tumor xenograft as the solid tumor model. Immunofluorescence staining of tumor slices demonstrated that oral celecoxib treatment at a dose of 200 mg/kg for two weeks successfully normalized the tumor microenvironment, including tumor-associated fibroblast reduction, fibronectin bundle disruption, tumor vessel normalization, and tumor perfusion improvement. Furthermore, it also significantly enhanced the in vivo accumulation and deep penetration of 22-nm micelles rather than 100-nm nanoparticles in tumor tissues by in vivo imaging and distribution experiments and improved the therapeutic efficacy of paclitaxel-loaded micelles in tumor xenograft-bearing mouse models in the pharmacodynamics experiment. As celecoxib is widely and safely used in clinics, our findings may have great potential in clinics to improve solid tumor treatment.
Associations of estimated glomerular filtration rate and blood urea nitrogen with incident coronary heart disease: the Dongfeng-Tongji Cohort Study
Authors: Jiang Haijing , Li Jun , Yu Kuai , Yang Handong , Min Xinwen , Chen Huanqian , Wu Tangchun
Published: August 2017

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has been reported to be associated with risk of incident coronary heart disease (CHD), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) has been shown to be a strong predictor of mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). However, such epidemiological evidence from Chinese population was still limited. We used Cox proportional-hazards regression models to investigate the associations of eGFR and BUN with risk of incident CHD in the prospective Dongfeng-Tongji (DFTJ) cohort. After fully adjusted for potential confounders, a 10-unit decline in eGFR was associated with higher risk for CHD (hazard ratio [HR] 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.09); compared with individuals with normal eGFR levels (eGFR ≥ 90 ml/min per 1.73 m2), individuals with a mild-to-severe eGFR decline (15 to 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) were at significantly greater risk for CHD (HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.05–1.48; P = 0.011). Compared with individuals in the lowest tertile of BUN, those in the highest tertile were at significantly greater risk for CHD (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03–1.33; P = 0.014). In conclusion, a mild-to-severe decline in eGFR or a raised level of BUN might be associated with increased risk of incident CHD in middle-aged and elderly Chinese populations.