bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracellular free magnesium concentration in healthy horses
Authors: Winter J. C. , Sponder G. , Merle R. , Aschenbach J. R. , Gehlen H.
Published: May 2018

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a worldwide disease in horses that parallels human diabetes mellitus type 2. In both diseases, patients show an altered peripheral insulin sensitivity as a key feature. In humans, multiple studies have demonstrated the beneficial effect of magnesium supplementation on insulin sensitivity. However, serum magnesium levels vary and are therefore not a reliable indicator of the patients’ magnesium status. Determining the intracellular free magnesium concentration appears to be a more sensitive diagnostic indicator. In this study, the free intracellular magnesium concentration was measured using mag‐fura 2 spectrophotometry in blood lymphocytes in 12 healthy, non‐obese horses at 9 a.m., 12 a.m. and 4 p.m. to establish reference ranges according to a protocol designed for human blood lymphocytes. Additionally, the serum magnesium concentration was measured. In all horses, the total serum magnesium concentration was within the reference range. The mean free magnesium concentration in blood lymphocytes of all horses was 0.291 ± 0.067 mmol/L with no significant difference between the time points. The reference range for the free intracellular magnesium concentration in equine lymphocytes was set at 0.16–0.42 mmol/L. The established values are slightly lower than those in healthy humans. The designed protocol for the measurement of the intracellular free magnesium concentration might be an excellent research tool to assess the cellular magnesium status and to reliably diagnose an altered magnesium homeostasis in EMS. Further studies shall elucidate possible alterations in cellular magnesium status in horses with EMS.
Self‐reported sleep disturbances and prostate cancer morbidity and mortality in Swedish men: A longitudinal study over 40 years
Authors: Tan Xiao , Cedernaes Jonathan , Forsberg Lars A. , Schiöth Helgi B. , Benedict Christian
Published: May 2018

The present study, with an observational period of about 40 years, examined the association between self‐reported sleep disturbances (i.e. problems with falling and staying asleep; use of hypnotics) and prostate cancer morbidity and mortality in initially 2322 men (all 50 years old at baseline). Self‐reported sleep disturbances and established risk factors (e.g. age, lower urinary tract symptoms, smoking and family history of cancer) were measured at ages 50 and 70 years. Information about prostate cancer diagnosis and deaths as a result of prostate cancer was available from the National Cancer Registry and the Swedish Civil Registry of Morbidity. During the observational period, 263 participants developed prostate cancer (11% of the total cohort); 146 of them died as a result of prostate cancer. There was no association between sleep disturbances and prostate cancer morbidity or mortality (hazard ratio 1.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79, 1.52, and hazard ratio 1.21, 95% CI 0.77, 1.91, respectively). Similar findings were observed when examining associations between single sleep disturbance parameters and prostate cancer morbidity and mortality. Our study does not provide evidence that reports of sleep disturbances increase the risk of prostate cancer morbidity or mortality in middle to older‐aged men. Therefore, assessing subjective sleep problems may not meaningfully help to identify men at risk of developing prostate cancer or dying of this devastating condition.
Comparison of overall survival between antiviral‐induced viral suppression and inactive phase chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Cho Y. Y. , Lee J.‐H. , Chang Y. , Nam J. Y. , Cho H. , Lee D. H. , Cho E. J. , Lee D. H. , Yu S. J. , Lee J. M. , Kim Y. J. , Yoon J.‐H.
Published: May 2018

Nucleot(s)ide analogues (NAs) reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. However, the risk of HCC is reportedly higher for NA‐treated patients than for patients in the inactive CHB phase. This study aimed to compare the long‐term outcomes of CHB patients with NA‐induced viral suppression and those of patients with inactive CHB. This retrospective study involved 1118 consecutive CHB patients whose HBV DNA level was continuously <2000 IU/mL during follow‐up with/without antiviral agents. The patients were classified into inactive CHB (n = 373) or NA groups (n = 745). The primary endpoint was overall survival. Secondary endpoints included development of HCC and other liver‐related events. The median duration of follow‐up was 41.0 (interquartile range = 26.5‐55.0) months. The difference in overall survival between the NA group vs. the inactive CHB group was not significant (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.33‐1.85; P = .57). The NA group showed a significantly higher risk of HCC (HR = 3.44; 95% CI = 1.82‐6.52; P < .01), but comparable risk for non‐HCC liver‐related events (HR = 1.02; 95% CI = 0.66‐1.59; P = .93), compared with the inactive CHB group. Among patients with cirrhosis, the NA group showed a significantly lower risk of death (HR = 0.31; 95% CI = 0.097‐0.998; P = .05) and non‐HCC liver‐related events (HR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.31‐0.83; P < .01), but a slightly higher risk of HCC (HR = 2.39; 95% CI = 0.85‐6.75; P = .09), compared to the inactive CHB group. The overall survival of untreated patients with inactive CHB and of CHB patients achieving viral suppression with NA was comparable. However, NA treatment of cirrhotic patients was significantly associated with longer overall survival and lower risk of liver‐related events.
Effect of temperature on an alga‐grazer trophic transfer: A dual stable isotope (13C, 15N) labeling experiment
Authors: Legrand Erwann , Martin Sophie , Leroux Cédric , Riera Pascal
Published: May 2018

In this study, we examined the impact of temperature on the carbon and nitrogen trophic transfers from a macroalga to a macro‐grazer by the use of dual 13C‐ and 15N‐labeling. Using an experimental approach in mesocosms, individuals of the urchin Psammechinus miliaris were maintained for 1 month at 17°C (mean summer temperature in the Bay of Brest) and at 20°C (maximum summer temperature) and fed with 13C‐ and 15N‐labeled Solieria chordalis. The results showed that the urchins’ 13C uptake was 0.30 µg13C g dry weight (DW)−1 at 17°C and 0.14 µg13C g DW−1 at 20°C at the end of the experiment. The lower uptake at the higher temperature may be attributed to a decrease in metabolic activity at 20°C, involving lower feeding and/or respiration rates. Conversely, no significant effect of temperature was detected on 15N uptake. At the end of the experiment, the urchins’ 15N uptake was 0.04 µg15N g DW−1 at 17°C and 0.03 µg15N g DW−1 at 20°C. This suggests that temperature may affect carbon and nitrogen trophic fluxes differently. The use of dual isotope labeling offers interesting prospects and needs to be further extended in order to better understand trophic interactions in marine communities and the consequences of current environmental changes, such as global warming.
Imitation from a joint action perspective
Authors: McEllin Luke , Knoblich Günther , Sebanz Natalie
Published: May 2018

Imitation research has focused on turn‐taking contexts in which one person acts and one person then copies that action. However, people also imitate when engaging in joint actions, where two or more people coordinate their actions in space and time in order to achieve a shared goal. We discuss how the various constraints imposed by joint action modulate imitation, and the close links between perception and action that form the basis of this phenomenon. We also explore how understanding imitation in the context of joint action yields new insights into cultural phenomena such as teaching and innovation.
The sphingosine analog fingolimod (FTY720) enhances tone and contractility of rat gastric fundus smooth muscle
Authors: Kraft M. , Zettl U. K. , Noack T. , Patejdl R.
Published: May 2018

Background

Sphingosine and its metabolite sphingosine phosphate (S1P) regulate a multitude of biological functions, including the contractile state of smooth. Gastrointestinal side effects have been reported in patients treated withFTY720, a sphingosine analog that is approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. The aim of this study was to characterize the effects ofFTY720 on rat gastric fundus smooth muscle under basal conditions and during activation induced by high‐K+solution.

Methods

Isometric contractions of isolated circular strips of gastric fundus smooth muscle were recorded using the organ bath method. The effects ofFTY720 or vehicle were recorded under control conditions and in the presence of indomethacin, L‐NAME,HA‐1100, nifedipine,JTE‐013, and suramin. Tone and contractions recorded in the presence ofFTY720 or vehicle are reported as % of the amplitude of an initial high‐K+contraction obtained under control conditions.

Key Results

From a concentration of 10 μmol L−1onwards,FTY720 increased the tone, reaching 8.9% ± 7.5% at 100 μmol L−1(P < .05). With indomethacin in the solution, the effects ofFTY720 were enhanced (32.1% ± 7.7%;P < .001). TheFTY720‐induced increase in tone was abolished in the absence of extracellular Ca2+and reduced by nifedipine,HA‐1100,JTE‐013, and suramin. Furthermore,FTY720 increased high‐K+contractions in the presence of indomethacin.

Conclusions & Inferences

FTY720 increases tone and contractile responses to depolarization in gastric fundus smooth muscle by triggering calcium entry and calcium sensitization in a S1P receptor‐dependent manner. Taken together, the experimental results presented in this work suggest thatFTY720 may increase gastric tone and contractility in patients.
Control of the inflammatory response during pregnancy: potential role of VIP as a regulatory peptide
Authors: Ramhorst Rosanna , Calo Guillermina , Paparini Daniel , Vota Daiana , Hauk Vanesa , Gallino Lucila , Merech Fatima , Grasso Esteban , Leirós Claudia Pérez
Published: May 2018

A network of cell–cell communications through contact and soluble factors supports the maternal–placental interaction and provides a suitable environment for fetal growth. Trophoblast cells take center stage at these loops: they interact with maternal leukocytes to sustain the varying demands of gestation, and they synthesize hormones, cytokines among other factors that contribute to the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Here, we discuss vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and its potential as a regulatory neuropeptide in pregnancy. VIP is synthesized by trophoblast cells; it regulates trophoblast cell function and interaction with the major immune cell populations present in the pregnant uterus. VIP activity produces an anti‐inflammatory microenvironment by modulating the functional profile of monocytes, macrophages, and regulatory T cells. Trophoblast VIP inhibits neutrophil extracellular trap formation and accelerates neutrophil apoptosis, enabling their silent clearance by phagocytic cells. The effects of VIP on the trophoblast–immune interaction are consistent with its regulatory role throughout pregnancy for immune homeostasis maintenance. These observations may provide new clues for pharmacological targeting of pregnancy complications associated with exacerbated inflammation.
Attention in working memory: attention is needed but it yearns to be free
Authors: Rhodes Stephen , Cowan Nelson
Published: May 2018

Recent theoretical development of working memory has emphasized the role of attention in several active processes supporting maintenance. Although this development is certainly welcome and has accounted for a number of phenomena, there are findings that cannot be readily accounted for through the active use of attention in refreshing or removal of information. We review these findings and suggest that, whenever the circumstances allow, participants attempt to reduce the load on attention by making use of stored concepts in long‐term memory (LTM) or off‐loading new configurations, forming new long‐term memories. Newly formed groups and configurations in LTM constitute a list‐ or array‐wide version of the consolidation of information into memory to prevent forgetting in a manner that reduces the need for continued attention to the material. This suggestion leads to a number of interesting questions at the behavioral and neural levels, which we also discuss.
Music‐supported therapy for stroke motor recovery: theoretical and practical considerations
Authors: Chen Joyce L.
Published: May 2018

Music may confer benefits for well‐being and health. What is the state of knowledge and evidence for a role of music in supporting the rehabilitation of movements after stroke? In this brief perspective, I provide background context and information about stroke recovery in general, in order to spark reflection and discussion for how we think music may impact motor recovery, given the current clinical milieu.
Insight into the physiological role of water absorption via the leaf surface from a rehydration kinetics perspective
Authors: Guzmán‐Delgado Paula , Mason Earles J. , Zwieniecki Maciej A.
Published: May 2018

Soil water transported via the petiole is a primary rehydration pathway for leaves of water‐stressed plants. Leaves may also rehydrate by absorbing water via their epidermal surfaces. The mechanisms and physiological relevance of this water pathway, however, remain unclear, as the associated hydraulic properties are unknown. To gain insight into the foliar water absorption process, we compared rehydration kinetics via the petiole and surface of Prunus dulcis and Quercus lobata leaves. Petiole rehydration could be described by a double exponential function suggesting that 2 partly isolated water pools exist in leaves of both species. Surface rehydration could be described by a logistic function, suggesting that leaves behave as a single water pool. Whereas full leaf rehydration via the petiole required approximately 20 min, it took over 150 and 300 min via the surface of P. dulcis and Q. lobata, respectively. Such differences were attributed to the high resistance imposed by the leaf surface and especially the cuticle. The minimum resistance to surface rehydration was estimated to be 6.6 × 102 (P. dulcis) and 2.6 × 103 MPa·m2·s·g−1 (Q. lobata), which is remarkably higher than estimated for petiole rehydration. These results are discussed in a physiological context.
Big Data and the Precision Medicine Revolution
Authors: Hopp Wallace J. , Li Jun , Wang Guihua
Published: May 2018

The big data revolution is making vast amounts of information available in all sectors of the economy including health care. One important type of data that is particularly relevant to medicine is observational data from actual practice. In comparison to experimental data from clinical studies, observational data offers much larger sample sizes and much broader coverage of patient variables. Properly combining observational data with experimental data can facilitate precision medicine by enabling detection of heterogeneity in patient responses to treatments and tailoring of health care to the specific needs of individuals. However, because it is high‐dimensional and uncontrolled, observational data presents unique methodological challenges. The modeling and analysis tools of the production and operations management field are well‐suited to these challenges and hence POM scholars are critical to the realization of precision medicine with its many benefits to society.
Bovine foetal sex determination—Different DNA extraction and amplification approaches for efficient livestock production
Authors: Ristanic M , Stanisic Lj , Maletic M , Glavinic U , Draskovic V , Aleksic N , Stanimirovic Z
Published: May 2018

Contents

Foetal sex determination using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in mammals is based on the amplification of gender‐specific foetal DNA sequences circulating in maternal blood. The bovine synepitheliochorial placenta does not allow a direct contact between the trophoblast and the maternal blood, resulting in difficult passage of foetal DNA and, consequently, its very small amounts in maternal bloodstream. Circulating cell‐free foetal DNA (ccffDNA) encompasses short nucleotide fragments (300–600 bp) in maternal circulation. The aim of this study was to assess this non‐invasive method in accurate prenatal sexing in early and late gestational periods in comparison with ultrasound diagnostics. As various DNA isolation and amplification methods were tested, their success in obtaining reliable results was evaluated. Two groups were tested, each consisting of 20 pregnant cows. Blood of a bull and a non‐pregnant heifer was the controls. Extraction of foetal DNA was accomplished by three different methods: using tubes with silicone membranes, a single‐tube extraction without silicone membranes and phenol–chloroform extraction. Following each extraction method, foetal DNA was amplified using PCR and real‐time PCR with both bAML and TSPY primers in a separate reaction. Positive results were obtained only after amplification of foetal DNA extracted with a single‐tube extraction kit. In comparison with ultrasound examination results and foetal gender recorded at birth, the sensitivity of the PCR test was 90% in Group I, but the technique failed to detect male foetuses in Group II. The real‐time PCR test sensitivity in Group I was 90% and in Group II 91.6%.
A virtual experience to strengthen students' understanding of inference in experimental design
Authors: López María Virginia , Fabrizio María del Carmen , Plencovich María Cristina
Published: May 2018

Although our students correctly define the terms p‐value, Type I and Type II errors, they sometimes misinterpret results from real data. In this work we present an assignment intended to clear up these misconceptions.
May the odds be ever in your favour
Authors: Bonnett Laura J. , White Simon R.
Published: May 2018

Probability and chance are essential concepts, not just in statistics but in real life. We present an adaptable activity which investigates what we mean by bias, how we can identify bias, and how we can use it to our advantage!
Metabolic reconstructions identify plant 3‐methylglutaconyl‐CoA hydratase that is crucial for branched‐chain amino acid catabolism in mitochondria
Authors: Latimer Scott , Li Yubing , Nguyen Thuong T.H. , Soubeyrand Eric , Fatihi Abdelhak , Elowsky Christian G. , Block Anna , Pichersky Eran , Basset Gilles J.
Published: May 2018

The proteinogenic branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine and valine are essential nutrients for mammals. In plants, BCAAs double as alternative energy sources when carbohydrates become limiting, the catabolism of BCAAs providing electrons to the respiratory chain and intermediates to the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Yet, the actual architecture of the degradation pathways of BCAAs is not well understood. In this study, gene network modeling in Arabidopsis and rice, and plant‐prokaryote comparative genomics detected candidates for 3‐methylglutaconyl‐CoA hydratase (4.2.1.18), one of the missing plant enzymes of leucine catabolism. Alignments of these protein candidates sampled from various spermatophytes revealed non‐homologous N‐terminal extensions that are lacking in their bacterial counterparts, and green fluorescent protein‐fusion experiments demonstrated that the Arabidopsis protein, product of gene At4g16800, is targeted to mitochondria. Recombinant At4g16800 catalyzed the dehydration of 3‐hydroxymethylglutaryl‐CoA into 3‐methylglutaconyl‐CoA, and displayed kinetic features similar to those of its prokaryotic homolog. When at4g16800 knockout plants were subjected to dark‐induced carbon starvation, their rosette leaves displayed accelerated senescence as compared with control plants, and this phenotype was paralleled by a marked increase in the accumulation of free and total leucine, isoleucine and valine. The seeds of the at4g16800 mutant showed a similar accumulation of free BCAAs. These data suggest that 3‐methylglutaconyl‐CoA hydratase is not solely involved in the degradation of leucine, but is also a significant contributor to that of isoleucine and valine. Furthermore, evidence is shown that unlike the situation observed in Trypanosomatidae, leucine catabolism does not contribute to the formation of the terpenoid precursor mevalonate.
Advances in cellular and integrative control of oxygen homeostasis within the central nervous system
Authors: Ramirez Jan Marino , Severs Liza J. , Ramirez Sanja C. , Agosto‐Marlin Ibis M.
Published: May 2018

Mammals must continuously regulate the levels of O2 and CO2, which is particularly important for the brain. Failure to maintain adequate O2/CO2 homeostasis has been associated with numerous disorders including sleep apnoea, Rett syndrome and sudden infant death syndrome. But, O2/CO2 homeostasis poses major regulatory challenges, even in the healthy brain. Neuronal activities change in a differentiated, spatially and temporally complex manner, which is reflected in equally complex changes in O2 demand. This raises important questions: is oxygen sensing an emergent property, locally generated within all active neuronal networks, and/or the property of specialized O2‐sensitive CNS regions? Increasing evidence suggests that the regulation of the brain's redox state involves properties that are intrinsic to many networks, but that specialized regions in the brainstem orchestrate the integrated control of respiratory and cardiovascular functions. Although the levels of O2 in arterial blood and the CNS are very different, neuro‐glial interactions and purinergic signalling are critical for both peripheral and CNS chemosensation. Indeed, the specificity of neuroglial interactions seems to determine the differential responses to O2, CO2 and the changes in pH.

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Role of defects in the etching of graphene by intercalated oxygen
Authors: Li Tianbai , Yarmoff Jory A.
Published: May 2018

Graphene is one of the most promising two-dimensional materials for various applications due to its unique electronic properties and high thermal stability. In previous studies, it was shown that when graphene is deposited onto certain transition metal substrates, small molecules, such as O2, intercalate between the graphene and the substrate and react to partially etch the graphene film when heated to desorb the intercalates. Here, carbon vacancy defects are intentionally formed on Gr/Ru(0001) and their effects on the intercalation of oxygen and the etching of the graphene layer are investigated. Ar+ sputtering with 50 eV ions and a low fluence is used to create isolated single vacancy defects in the graphene overlayer and helium low energy ion scattering are employed for surface analysis. It is found that the defects both ease the intercalation of the oxygen and improve the etching efficiency of the graphene during annealing.
Hydrogen annealing effects on local structures and oxidation states of atomic layer deposited SnOx
Authors: Chang Siliang , Vijayan Sriram , Aindow Mark , Jursich Gregory , Takoudis Christos G.
Published: May 2018

Divalent tin is of great interest, but comes with a drawback—its metastable nature. In pursuing divalent tin, the authors systematically examine the change in oxidation states of Sn using a set of ALD SnOx films annealed in different atmospheres at temperatures ranging from 350 to 650 °C. Although the majority of Sn in the film was tetravalent after deposition, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and x-ray absorption near-edge structure verified the presence of divalent Sn after annealing in H2, and the divalent Sn content increased as the annealing temperature was raised. The local structures of Sn processed under these conditions were probed using extended x-ray absorption fine structure. Data from samples annealed in H2 at 350, 450, and 550 °C were fitted well using a rutile SnO2 model; the sample annealed in H2 at 650 °C could only be fitted using a hybrid of SnO2 and SnO models. Annealing in N2 and O2 resulted in tetravalent Sn. X-ray reflectivity showed that the density of the as-deposited film was as low as 50% of that for bulk SnO2; annealing in H2 first increased the critical angle, but the lowest density was found in films annealed in H2 at 650 °C. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the as-deposited films were amorphous whereas the annealed films underwent a dewetting process after annealing for 30 min in H2 at 550 °C; the resulting structure was separated into tin-rich spheres with oxygen-rich outer shells and SnO clusters, possibly due to the lattice mismatch between Sn and SnO after disproportionation.
A general theory of arbitrary Bessel beam scattering and interactions with a sphere
Authors: Zhang Likun
Published: May 2018

This paper presents an analytical theory that formulates interactions of an arbitrary-order Bessel beam with an arbitrarily located sphere as a superposition of interactions with a series of Bessel beams of different orders whose axis is through the object's center. The analysis is via a parallel-axis relation that is derived to represent the incident Bessel beam as a superposition of a series of Bessel beams of different orders along a parallel, shifted axis. By the superposition, summing on-axial formulas gives off-axial formulas, including multipole expansion of the incident beam, scattered fields, powers of scattering and absorption, and axial radiation forces. Features of the off-axial scattering and interactions are hence accessed from prior studies on the axially centered illuminations. Dependence on the object location is contained in a weighting function in the superposition that also depends on the beam orders. Transverse and azimuthal forces are interpreted as a result of interactions between the beams of different orders in the superposition.
Visual perception of vowels from static and dynamic cues
Authors: Rojczyk Arkadiusz , Ciszewski Tomasz , Szwoch Grzegorz , Czyżewski Andrzej
Published: May 2018

The purpose of the study was to analyse human identification of Polish vowels from static and dynamic durationally slowed visual cues. A total of 152 participants identified 6 Polish vowels produced by 4 speakers from static (still images) and dynamic (videos) cues. The results show that 59% of static vowels and 63% of dynamic vowels were successfully identified. There was a strong confusion between vowels within front, central, and back classes. Finally, correct identification strongly depended on speakers, showing that speakers differ significantly in how “clearly” they produce vowel configurations.
Diffraction of acoustic waves at two-dimensional hard trilateral cylinders with rounded edges: First-order physical theory of diffraction approximation
Authors: Apaydin Gokhan , Sevgi Levent , Ufimtsev Pyotr Ya.
Published: May 2018

The paper explores diffraction of acoustic waves at a two-dimensional hard trilateral cylinder with rounded edges. It represents the extension of the physical theory of diffraction (PTD) for finite objects with rounded edges. A first-order PTD approximation is developed. Integral equations are formulated for acoustic fringe waves and solved by method of moments (MoM). Good agreement is observed with the exact solution found by MoM when the object size exceeds a few wavelengths.
The Effects of Structured Exercise or Lifestyle Behavior Interventions on Long-Term Physical Activity Level and Health Outcomes in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression
Authors: Mosalman Haghighi Marjan , Mavros Yorgi , Fiatarone Singh Maria A.
Published: May 2018

Background: Systematically evaluate the effects of structured exercise and behavioral intervention (physical activity [PA] alone/PA + diet) on long-term PA in type 2 diabetes. Methods: Systematic search of 11 databases (inception to March, 2017). Randomized controlled trials investigating structured exercise/behavioral interventions in type 2 diabetes reporting PA outcomes ≥6 months were selected. Results: Among 107,797 citations retrieved, 23 randomized controlled trials (including 18 behavioral programs and 5 structured exercise) met inclusion criteria (n = 9640, 43.6% men, age = 60.0 (4.0) y). All structured exercise trials demonstrated increased objective PA outcomes relative to control (pooling was inappropriate; I2 = 92%). Of 18 behavioral interventions, 10 increased PA significantly, with effect sizes ranging from 0.2 to 6.6 (pooling was inappropriate; I2 = 96%). After removing 1 outlier, the remaining 17 studies significantly improved PA (pooled effect size = 0.34), although smaller compared with structured exercise. After removing the outlier, meta-regression also revealed significant direct relationships between total contacts (r = .50, P < .01) and more face-to-face counseling (r = .75, P < .001) and increased PA. However, long-term changes in PA and HbA1c were not related. Conclusion: Both structured exercise and  behavioral interventions increased PA in type 2 diabetes, although effect sizes were larger for supervised exercise. The effectiveness of behavioral programs was improved when delivery included more extensive and face-to-face contact.
The Baltic Sea as a time machine for the future coastal ocean
Authors: Reusch Thorsten B. H. , Dierking Jan , Andersson Helen C. , Bonsdorff Erik , Carstensen Jacob , Casini Michele , Czajkowski Mikolaj , Hasler Berit , Hinsby Klaus , Hyytiäinen Kari , Johannesson Kerstin , Jomaa Seifeddine , Jormalainen Veijo , Kuosa Harri , Kurland Sara , Laikre Linda , MacKenzie Brian R. , Margonski Piotr , Melzner Frank , Oesterwind Daniel , Ojaveer Henn , Refsgaard Jens Christian , Sandström Annica , Schwarz Gerald , Tonderski Karin , Winder Monika , Zandersen Marianne
Published: May 2018

Science-based, multinational management of the Baltic Sea offers lessons on amelioration of highly disturbed marine ecosystems.
Sweet skin remedy
Authors: Houtkooper Riekelt
Published: May 2018

Up-regulation of glucose transport drives keratinocyte proliferation, whereas its inhibition offers therapeutic potential against psoriasis.
Inflammatory signatures of smoking
Authors: Segal Leopoldo N.
Published: May 2018

Smoking is associated with distinct pro- and anti-inflammatory signatures in squamous cell carcinomas of the lung and the head and neck.
Characterization of the Anti-Hepatitis C Virus Activity of New Nonpeptidic Small-Molecule Cyclophilin Inhibitors with the Potential for Broad Anti-Flaviviridae Activity
Authors: Nevers Quentin , Ruiz Isaac , Ahnou Nazim , Donati Flora , Brillet Rozenn , Softic Laurent , Chazal Maxime , Jouvenet Nolwenn , Fourati Slim , Baudesson Camille , Bruscella Patrice , Gelin Muriel , Guichou Jean-François , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Ahmed-Belkacem Abdelhakim
Published: May 2018

Although members of the
Flaviviridae
display high incidence, morbidity, and mortality rates, the development of specific antiviral drugs for each virus is unlikely. Cyclophilins, a family of host peptidyl-prolyl
cis-trans
isomerases (PPIases), play a pivotal role in the life cycles of many viruses and therefore represent an attractive target for broad-spectrum antiviral development. We report here the pangenotypic anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) activity of a small-molecule cyclophilin inhibitor (SMCypI). Mechanistic and modeling studies revealed that the SMCypI bound to cyclophilin A in competition with cyclosporine (CsA), inhibited its PPIase activity, and disrupted the CypA-nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A) interaction. Resistance selection showed that the lead SMCypI hardly selected amino acid substitutions conferring low-level or no resistance
in vitro
. Interestingly, the SMCypI selected D320E and Y321H substitutions, located in domain II of the NS5A protein. These substitutions were previously associated with low-level resistance to cyclophilin inhibitors such as alisporivir. Finally, the SMCypI inhibited the replication of other members of the
Flaviviridae
family with higher 50% effective concentrations (EC
50
s) than for HCV. Thus, because of its chemical plasticity and simplicity of synthesis, our new family of SMCypIs represents a promising new class of drugs with the potential for broad-spectrum anti-
Flaviviridae
activity as well as an invaluable tool to explore the role of cyclophilins in viral life cycles.
Complete Genome Sequence of Geobacter sulfurreducens Strain YM18, Isolated from River Sediment in Japan
Authors: Inoue Kengo , Ogura Yoshitoshi , Kawano Yoshihiro , Hayashi Tetsuya
Published: May 2018

Geobacter sulfurreducens
is known to be a dominant species in the anode biofilms of microbial fuel cells. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
G. sulfurreducens
strain YM18. Strain YM18 was isolated from a biofilm formed on an anode poised at −400 mV (versus an Ag/AgCl electrode) in a bioelectrochemical system.
High-Quality Draft Single-Cell Genome Sequence Belonging to the Archaeal Candidate Division SA1, Isolated from Nereus Deep in the Red Sea
Authors: Ngugi David K. , Stingl Ulrich
Published: May 2018

Candidate division SA1 encompasses a phylogenetically coherent archaeal group ubiquitous in deep hypersaline anoxic brines around the globe. Recently, the genome sequences of two cultivated representatives from hypersaline soda lake sediments were published. Here, we present a single-cell genome sequence from Nereus Deep in the Red Sea that represents a putatively novel family within SA1.
Draft Genome Sequence of “Candidatus Phycosocius bacilliformis,” an Alphaproteobacterial Ectosymbiont of the Hydrocarbon-Producing Green Alga Botryococcus braunii
Authors: Tanabe Yuuhiko , Yamaguchi Haruyo , Watanabe Makoto M.
Published: May 2018

“
Candidatus
Phycosocius bacilliformis” is an alphaproteobacterial ectosymbiont of the hydrocarbon-producing green alga
Botryococcus braunii
. We sequenced the whole genome of “
Ca.
P. bacilliformis” BOTRYCO-2, isolated from a two-membered culture with
B. braunii
. The genome contains approximately 3.3 Mb, with an average G+C content of 56.91% and 3,125 predicted protein-coding genes.
Genome Sequence of the Symbiotic Type Strain Mesorhizobium helmanticense CSLC115N Isolated from Lotus corniculatus Nodules
Authors: Sannazzaro Analía I. , Torres Tejerizo Gonzalo A. , Caballero Marina , Dip Diana , Pistorio Mariano , Estrella María Julia
Published: May 2018

Mesorhizobium helmanticense
is a novel species that was isolated from root nodules of
Lotus corniculatus
grown in an alfisol soil from Carbajosa de la Sagrada, a Mediterranean region in the province of Salamanca in northwest Spain. The whole-genome sequence of the type strain
M. helmanticense
CSLC115N is reported in this study.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Novel Rhabdovirus Isolated from Deinocerites Mosquitoes
Authors: Xu Connie L. , Cantalupo Paul G. , Sáenz-Robles Maria Teresa , Baldwin Amy , Fitzpatrick Dan , Norris Douglas E. , Jackson Ethan , Pipas James M.
Published: May 2018

We present a draft genome of a novel rhabdovirus, called Grenada mosquito rhabdovirus 1 (GMRV1), with homology to Wuhan mosquito virus 9 (WMV9) (NCBI reference sequence NC_031303), isolated from
Deinocerites
mosquitoes. The genome has a length of 14,420 nucleotides and encodes five open reading frames.
Specific Binding to Differentially Expressed Human Carcinoembryonic Antigen-Related Cell Adhesion Molecules Determines the Outcome of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections along the Female Reproductive Tract
Authors: Islam Epshita A. , Anipindi Varun C. , Francis Ian , Shaik-Dasthagirisaheb Yazdan , Xu Stacey , Leung Nelly , Sintsova Anna , Amin Mohsen , Kaushic Charu , Wetzler Lee M. , Gray-Owen Scott D.
Published: May 2018

The gonococcal Opa proteins are an antigenically variable family of surface adhesins that bind human carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1), CEACAM3, CEACAM5, and/or CEACAM6, cell surface glycoproteins that are differentially expressed on a broad spectrum of human cells and tissues. While they are presumed to be important for infection, the significance of various Opa-CEACAM-mediated cellular interactions in the context of the genital tract has remained unclear.
Intrastructural Help: Harnessing T Helper Cells Induced by Licensed Vaccines for Improvement of HIV Env Antibody Responses to Virus-Like Particle Vaccines
Authors: Elsayed Hassan , Nabi Ghulam , McKinstry William J. , Khoo Keith K. , Mak Johnson , Salazar Andres M. , Tenbusch Matthias , Temchura Vladimir , Überla Klaus
Published: May 2018

Induction of persistent antibody responses by vaccination is generally thought to depend on efficient help by T follicular helper cells. Since the T helper cell response to HIV Env may not be optimal, we explored the possibility of improving the HIV Env antibody response to virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines by recruiting T helper cells induced by commonly used licensed vaccines to provide help for Env-specific B cells. B cells specific for the surface protein of a VLP can internalize the entire VLP and thus present peptides derived from the surface and core proteins on their major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) molecules. This allows T helper cells specific for the core protein to provide intrastructural help for B cells recognizing the surface protein. Consistently, priming mice with an adjuvanted Gag protein vaccine enhanced the HIV Env antibody response to subsequent booster immunizations with HIV VLPs. To harness T helper cells induced by the licensed Tetanolpur vaccines, HIV VLPs that contained T helper cell epitopes of tetanus toxoid were generated. Tetanol-immunized mice raised stronger antibody responses to immunizations with VLPs containing tetanus toxoid T helper cell epitopes but not to VLPs lacking these epitopes. Depending on the priming immunization, the IgG subtype response to HIV Env after the VLP immunization could also be modified. Thus, harnessing T helper cells induced by other vaccines appears to be a promising approach to improve the HIV Env antibody response to VLP vaccines.

IMPORTANCEInduction of HIV Env antibodies at sufficient levels with optimal Fc effector functions for durable protection remains a challenge. Efficient T cell help may be essential to induce such a desirable antibody response. Here, we provide proof of concept that T helper cells induced by a licensed vaccine can be harnessed to provide help for HIV Env-specific B cells and to modulate the Env-specific IgG subtype response.
Spondyloarthritis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a prospective hospital-based study
Authors: Lebughe Pierrot , de Vlam Kurt , Westhovens Rene , Mbuyi-Muamba Jean-Marie , Malemba Jean Jacques
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To determine the spectrum of spondyloarthritis (SpA) in outpatients with symptoms of rheumatism attending two rheumatology practices in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Design

A descriptive prospective multicentre outpatient study.

Setting

The present study analysed 6 months data (from 1 December 2012 till 31 May 2013).

Participants

Nine hundred and eighty-four consecutive outpatients were studied.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

A clinical diagnosis of SpA was made and several classification criteria were applied afterwards. Radiographic lesions in the sacroiliac joint were scored with the modified New York criteria. BASDAI and BASFI were evaluated in axial SpA (axSpA). The primary end point was the prevalence of SpA and the secondary end points were the spectrum of SpA and its subtypes.

Results

One hundred and five patients (10.7%) were diagnosed among 984 consecutive outpatients with a sex ratio (male to female) of 1.4. The average age at disease onset was 41.3±12.4 years. Non-radiographical axSpA was the most frequent subtype (5.0%) followed by reactive arthritis (4.3%). Other subtypes were: ankylosing spondylitis (1.0%), psoriatic arthritis (0.1%), synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis syndrome (0.1%) and inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis (0.1%). Mean BASDAI and BASFI in axSpA were 42.7/100 and 46.4/100, respectively. Peripheral enthesitis was found in 43% of patients with SpA and uveitis (10.4%) was the most frequent extra-articular manifestation. We did not detect any family history. Median erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C reactive protein were 37 (range: 7–110) mm/hour and 22 (range: 4–48) mg/L, respectively.

Conclusions

This hospital-based study suggests there is substantial occurrence of some subtypes of SpA in central Africa. A population-based study is needed to evaluate these subtypes.
Aerodynamic optimization of wind turbine rotor using CFD/AD method
Authors: Cao Jiufa , Zhu Weijun , Wang Tongguang , Ke Shitang
Published: May 2018

The current work describes a novel technique for wind turbine rotor optimization. The aerodynamic design and optimization of wind turbine rotor can be achieved with different methods, such as the semi-empirical engineering methods and more accurate computational fluid dynamic (CFD) method. The CFD method often provides more detailed aerodynamics features during the design process. However, high computational cost limits the application, especially for rotor optimization purpose. In this paper, a CFD-based actuator disc (AD) model is used to represent turbulent flow over a wind turbine rotor. The rotor is modeled as a permeable disc of equivalent area where the forces from the blades are distributed on the circular disc. The AD model is coupled with a Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) solver such that the thrust and power are simulated. The design variables are the shape parameters comprising the chord, the twist and the relative thickness of the wind turbine rotor blade. The comparative aerodynamic performance is analyzed between the original and optimized reference wind turbine rotor. The results showed that the optimization framework can be effectively and accurately utilized in enhancing the aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine rotor.
CFT duals on extremal rotating NUT black holes
Authors: Sakti Muhammad F. A. R. , Suroso A. , Zen Freddy P.
Published: May 2018

We investigate the Kerr–Newman–NUT black hole solution obtained from Plebański–Demiański solutions with several assumptions. The origin of the microscopic entropy of this black hole is investigated using the conjectured Kerr/CFT correspondence which is originally proposed for extremal Kerr black holes. The isometry of the near-horizon extremal Kerr–Newman–NUT black hole shows that the asymptotic symmetry group may be implemented to compute the central charge of the Virasoro algebra. Furthermore, by assuming the Frolov–Thorne vacuum, the conformal temperatures can be obtained. Then by using the Cardy formula, the microscopic entropy is gained which matches the Bekenstein–Hawking entropy. We also employ the Cardy prescription to find the logarithmic correction of the entropy. Then at limit [Formula: see text], the extremal Reissner–Nordström–NUT solution is recovered and by enhancing with the fibered coordinate we find the five-dimensional (5D) solution. The second dual CFT is applied to this black hole to gain the entropy. Finally, the microscopic entropy is still in agreement with the area law of 5D black hole solution. Hence, the extremal Reissner–Nordström–NUT solution is holographically dual to the CFT.
ASYMPTOTIC BEHAVIOR OF A STOCHASTIC DELAYED CHEMOSTAT MODEL WITH NUTRIENT STORAGE
Authors: SUN SHULIN , ZHANG XIAOFENG
Published: May 2018

In this paper, a stochastic delayed chemostat model with nutrient storage is proposed and investigated. First, we state that there is a unique global positive solution for this stochastic system. Second, using the classical approach of Lyapunov function analysis, this stochastic delayed chemostat model is discussed in detail. We establish some sufficient conditions for the extinction of the microorganism, furthermore, we prove that the microorganism will become persistent in the mean in the chemostat under some conditions. Finally, the obtained results are illustrated by computer simulations, and simulation results reveal the effects of time delay on the persistence and extinction of the microorganism.
FSIM: A Fast and Scalable Influence Maximization Algorithm Based on Community Detection
Authors: Bagheri Esmaeil , Dastghaibyfard Gholamhossein , Hamzeh Ali
Published: May 2018

Influence maximization algorithms try to select a set of individuals in social networks that are more influential. The Influence maximization problem is important in marketing and many researchers has researched on it and proposed new algorithms. All proposed algorithms are not scalable and are very time consuming for very large social networks generally. In this paper, a fast and scalable influence maximization algorithm called FSIM is proposed based on community detection. FSIM algorithm decreases number of nodes that must be examined without loss of the operations quality therefore it can find seeds quickly. FSIM can maximize influence in large social networks. Experimental results show FSIM is faster and more scalable than existing algorithms.
A Two-Stage Fuzzy Approach on the Socio-Economic Drivers of Global Energy Efficiency
Authors: de Oliveira Jose A. Puppim , Wanke Peter , Antunes Jorge Junio Moreira
Published: May 2018

Fuzzy models have been increasingly used in decision-making in the energy sector to deal with many uncertainties such as lack of data and climate change. This paper presents a global energetic efficiency analysis based on the time series data of 91 countries from 1960 to 2010, using an integrated two-stage fuzzy approach. More precisely, Fuzzy DEA models for traditional constant and varying returns to scale assumptions are employed in a first stage to assess the relative efficiency of these countries over the course of time. In the second stage, fuzzy regressions based on different rule-based systems are used to predict the impact of a set of demographic and socio-economic variables on energy efficiency. Energetic efficiency appears to be explained by the countervailing forces of urbanization, wealth inequality, and social development. Thus, a transition to a more energetic efficient lower carbon society will depend on how we address certain socio-political factors, such as pursuing a more sustainable urbanization, reducing inequalities and taking into consideration socio-environmental aspects in trade agreements.
Partial Representations of Orderings
Authors: Bosi G. , Estevan A. , Zuanon M.
Published: May 2018

In the present paper a new concept of representability is introduced, which can be applied to not total and also to intransitive relations (semiorders in particular). This idea tries to represent the orderings in the simplest manner, avoiding any unnecessary information. For this purpose, the new concept of representability is developed by means of partial functions, so that other common definitions of representability (i.e. (Richter-Peleg) multi-utility, Scott-Suppes representability, … ) are now particular cases in which the partial functions are actually functions. The paper also presents a collection of examples and propositions showing the advantages of this kind of representations, particularly in the case of partial orders and semiorders, as well as some results showing the connections between distinct kinds of representations.
A Novel Approach Based on Intuitionistic Fuzzy Combined Ordered Weighted Averaging Operator for Group Decision Making
Authors: Xian Sidong , Jing Na , Li Tangjin , Chen Liuxin
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a novel approach based on the intuitionistic fuzzy combined ordered weighted averaging (IFCOWA) operator to solve multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) problems under fuzzy environment. Firstly, we introduce the new methods for determining the attribute weights and the order inducing variable of the proposed operator. With the intuitionistic fuzzy cross-entropy of aggregated attribute value to the optimum and the poorest information measures, the sort vector is constructed to derive the weights of attributes. Moreover, the order inducing variable of the attributes is obtained from their score values, by which the inducing order is roughly determined. Finally, two numerical examples about the venture investment problems are illustrated to demonstrate the applicability and efficiency of the raised approach in group decision making problem.