bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Akkermansia muciniphila reduces Porphyromonas gingivalis‐induced inflammation and periodontal bone destruction
Authors: Huck Olivier , Mulhall Hannah , Rubin George , Kizelnik Zev , Iyer Radha , Perpich John D. , Haque Nasreen , Cani Patrice D. , de Vos Willem M. , Amar Salomon
Published: November 2019

Aim

Akkermansia muciniphila is a beneficial gut commensal, whose anti‐inflammatory properties have recently been demonstrated. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of A. muciniphila on Porphyromonas gingivalis elicited inflammation.

Material and Methods

In lean and obese mice, A. muciniphila was administered in P. gingivalis‐induced calvarial abscess and in experimental periodontitis model (EIP). Bone destruction and inflammation were evaluated by histomorphometric analysis. In vitro, A. muciniphila was co‐cultured with P. gingivalis, growth and virulence factor expression was evaluated. Bone marrow macrophages (BMMϕ) and gingival epithelial cells (TIGK) were exposed to both bacterial strains, and the expression of inflammatory mediators, as well as tight junction markers, was analysed.

Results

In a model of calvarial infection, A. muciniphila decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and bone destruction. In EIP, treatment with A. muciniphila resulted in a decreased alveolar bone loss. In vitro, the addition of A. muciniphila to P. gingivalis‐infected BMMϕ increased anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 and decreased IL‐12. Additionally, A. muciniphila exposure increases the expression of junctional integrity markers such as integrin‐β1, E‐cadherin and ZO‐1 in TIGK cells. A. muciniphila co‐culture with P. gingivalis reduced gingipains mRNA expression.

Discussion

This study demonstrated the protective effects of A. muciniphila administration and may open consideration to its use as an adjunctive therapeutic agent to periodontal treatment.
Seasonal dynamics of riverine fish communities using eDNA
Authors: Milhau Tristan , Valentini Alice , Poulet Nicolas , Roset Nicolas , Jean Pauline , Gaboriaud Coline , Dejean Tony
Published: November 2019

As fish communities are a major concern in rivers ecosystems, we investigated if their environmental (e)DNA signals vary according to the sampling period or hydromorphological conditions. Three rivers were studied over a year using eDNA metabarcoding approach. The majority of the species (c. 80%) were detected all year round in two rivers having similar hydromorphological conditions, whereas in the river affected by an upstream lake waterflow, more species were detected sporadically (42%). For all the rivers, in more than 98% of the occasional detections, the reads abundance represented <0.4% of the total reads per site and per sampling session. Even if the majority of the fish communities remained similar over the year for each of the three rivers, specific seasonal patterns were observed. We studied if the waterflow or the reproduction period had an effect on the observed dynamics. Waterflow, which influences eDNA downstream transportation, had a global influence in taxonomic richness, while the fishes' reproductive period had only an influence on certain species. Our results may help selecting the best sampling strategy according to research objectives. To study fish communities at local scale, seasons of low waterflow periods are recommended. This particularly helps to restraint effects of external eDNA coming from connections with other aquatic environment (tributaries, lakes, wetlands, sewage effluents, etc.). To obtain a more integrative overview of the fish community living in a river basin, high waterflow or breeding seasons are preferable for enhancing species detection probability, especially for rare species.
Managing muddy floods: Balancing engineered and alternative approaches
Authors: Boardman John , Vandaele Karel
Published: November 2019

Muddy runoff from agricultural fields is widespread across Europe causing damage to properties, transport, and freshwater systems. Clean‐up costs are high and include making water fit for drinking. Mitigation against muddy flooding (MF) includes standard soil conservation and flood protection measures. MF occurs during intense localised storms, for example, in Flanders, northern Belgium, but can also result from longer duration rainfall events, for example, in southern England. MF occurs in catchments with large areas of arable land, adjacent to property or freshwater systems. Early experience with mitigation measures favoured engineered approaches. On their own, these have frequently failed to achieve adequate protection or been ruled out on economic or safety grounds: a combination of engineered and land‐use approaches is necessary. We illustrate this with reference to the Molenbeek catchment in Flanders where monitoring shows a significant decline in erosion and damage to adjacent properties. Cost–benefit analysis of mitigation measures shows them to pay for themselves over short periods of time. Protecting freshwater systems from MF damage should focus on interrupting flow from field to streams, ditches and roads which act to convey muddy runoff to the main river channels.
The role of antibiotics in upper gastrointestinal bleeding among cirrhotic patients without major complications after endoscopic hemostasis
Authors: Wu Cheng‐Kun , Yang Shih‐Cheng , Liang Chih‐Ming , Li Yu‐Chi , Yeh Wen‐Shuo , Tai Wei‐Chen , Lee Chen‐Hsiang , Yang Yao‐Hsu , Hsu Chien‐Ning , Tsai Tzu‐Hsien , Chuah Seng‐Kee
Published: November 2019

Background and aim

Antibiotic prophylaxis should be instituted for cirrhotic patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), but the benefit on compensated patients remains undetermined. We aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between cirrhotic patients without major complications with UGIB with and without antibiotic prophylaxis.

Methods

We conducted this population‐based cohort study by using Taiwanese Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 (LHID2000, between 1997 to 2013), aged 18 years or older with a hospital discharge diagnosis of cirrhosis (n = 64,506), UGIB (n = 7,784), and endoscopic therapy (n = 2,292). After strict exclusions, 1205 patients were enrolled and were divided into antibiotic exposure (n = 558) and non‐exposure (n = 647) groups. The outcomes were rebleeding and mortality.

Results

After completing the analysis adjusted by death, the rebleeding rates within 4 weeks were significantly lower in patients with antibiotic prophylaxis (3.05% versus 6.03%, P = 0.0142) and those with endoscopic therapy (0.72% vs 3.09%, P = 0.0033) but not significant after 3 months and onwards. Male patients aged > 55, high CCI score ≧ 4, and UGIB of variceal etiologies were benefited from rebleeding. The use of antibiotics did not significantly impact 6‐week mortality (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.07, 95%CI: 0.41~2.75; P = 0.8943). Old age, multiple comorbidities, and UGIB of variceal etiologies were risk factors of all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

The current study suggested that cirrhotic patients without major complications who suffered from UGIB were benefited by the use of antibiotics to prevent rebleeding within 4 weeks after endoscopic treatment of UGIB especially for those with age > 55, high CCI score ≧ 4, and UGIB of variceal etiologies.
Attachment, emotion regulation, and well‐being in couples: Intrapersonal and interpersonal associations
Authors: Brandão Tânia , Matias Marisa , Ferreira Tiago , Vieira Joana , Schulz Marc S. , Matos Paula Mena
Published: November 2019

Objective

There is a well‐established link in the literature between secure romantic attachment orientation and psychological well‐being. The underlying processes of this link and the couple interplay between attachment and well‐being are notably less explored. Using a dyadic framework, this study examines both couple members' emotion regulation strategies as potential mediators of this link.

Method

One hundred and nineteen heterosexual couples completed self‐report measures on attachment style, psychological well‐being, tendency to suppress emotions, and emotion expression. Analyses were performed using the actor–partner interdependence mediation model that distinguishes between intrapersonal and interpersonal influences.

Results

Results showed that controlling for relationship length, there was an intrapersonal indirect effect of attachment avoidance on psychological well‐being through emotion suppression. Moreover, interpersonal indirect effects were found (a) with individual attachment avoidance being associated with partner's psychological well‐being through own emotion expression and (b) individual's attachment anxiety being associated with partner's psychological well‐being through both own's emotion expression and partner's emotion suppression.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the complex associations among attachment, emotion regulation, and well‐being and point out the role of emotion regulation as a potential underlying pathway explaining these associations. The results suggest the importance of considering the relational nature of emotional and attachment dynamics in couples.
Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System: Prevalence, Causes, and a Search for Solutions
Authors: Kovera Margaret Bull
Published: November 2019

Racial disparities in the criminal justice system are well documented and widespread. The present review examines racial disparities in three areas of the system: policing, prison populations, and participation on juries. Some, but not all, of these disparities may be the result of implicit racial bias. Even if the disparities are caused by implicit racial bias, given the number of people involved in the decision making that results in these disparities and the difficulty in training people to overcome implicit bias, interventions designed to eliminate disparities by reducing implicit racial bias may fail. Instead, policies designed to constrain the operation of implicit and/or explicit bias or that eliminate (or at a minimum reduce) problematic outcomes for everyone, regardless of race, may be more effective at reducing racial disparities than are interventions designed to eliminate implicit bias.
Predictors of urinary or fecal incontinence in dogs with thoracolumbar acute non‐compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion
Authors: Mari Lorenzo , Behr Sebastien , Shea Anita , Dominguez Elisabet , Ricco Cristoforo , Alcoverro Emili , Ekiri Abel , Sanchez‐Masian Daniel , De Risio Luisa
Published: November 2019

Background

Urinary (UI) and fecal (FI) incontinence occur in up to 7.5% and 32% of dogs, respectively, after thoracolumbar acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE).

Hypotheses/Objectives

To investigate clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic predictors of UI and FI in dogs with ANNPE affecting the T3‐L3 spinal cord segments.

Animals

Hundred and eighty‐seven dogs with T3‐L3 ANNPE diagnosed based on clinical and MRI findings.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective study. Data were obtained from medical records and telephone questionnaires and analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

UI and FI were reported in 17 (9.1%) and 44 (23.5%) dogs, respectively. Paraplegic dogs were 3 times (95% CI = 1.25, 10.87) more likely to develop UI (P = .018) and 4 times (95% CI = 1.94, 12.56) more likely to develop FI (P = .001) compared to nonparaplegic dogs. Dogs with an intramedullary hyperintensity greater than 40% of the cross‐sectional area of the spinal cord at the same level on transverse T2‐weighted MRI images were 4 times more likely to develop UI (95% CI = 1.04, 21.72; P = .045) and FI (95% CI = 1.56, 10.39; P = .004) compared to dogs with smaller lesions. FI was 3 times (95% CI = 1.41, 7.93) more likely in dogs that were not treated with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after diagnosis compared to dogs administered NSAIDs (P = .006) and 2 times (95% CI = 1.12, 5.98) more likely in dogs presented with clinical signs compatible with spinal shock compared to dogs without (P = .026).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

The identification of clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic predictors of UI and FI in dogs with T3‐L3 ANNPE can help to approach these autonomic dysfunctions occurring after spinal cord injury.
DNA barcodes expose unexpected diversity in Canadian mites
Authors: Young Monica R. , Proctor Heather C. , deWaard Jeremy R. , Hebert Paul D. N.
Published: November 2019

Mites (Arachnida: Acariformes, Parasitiformes) are the most abundant and species‐rich group of arthropods in soil, but are also diverse in freshwater habitats, on plants, and as symbionts of larger animals. However, assessment of their diversity has been impeded by their small size and often cryptic morphology. As a consequence, published estimates of their species richness span more than two orders of magnitude (0.4–114 million). In this study we employ DNA barcoding and the Barcode Index Number (BIN) system to investigate mite diversity at over 1,800 sites across Canada, primarily from soil and litter habitats with smaller contributions from freshwater, plants, and animal hosts. Barcodes from 73,394 specimens revealed 7,077 BINs with representatives from all four orders (Ixodida, Mesostigmata, Sarcoptiformes, Trombidiformes) and 60% (186) of the known families. The BIN total is 2.4 times the number of species previously recorded from Canada (2,999), reflecting the unexpectedly high richness of several families. Richness projections suggest that more than 28,000 BINs occur at the sampled locations, indicating that the Canadian mite fauna almost certainly includes more than 30,000 species—a total similar to that for the most diverse insect order in Canada, Diptera. This unexpected diversity was partitioned into highly dissimilar, spatially‐structured assemblages that likely reflect dispersal limitation and environmental heterogeneity. Further sampling of a greater diversity of habitats will refine understanding of mite diversity in Canada, but similar analyses in other geographic regions will be essential to ascertain their diversity at a global scale.
The challenge of keeping it off, a descriptive systematic review of high‐quality, follow‐up studies of obesity treatments
Authors: Nordmo Morten , Danielsen Yngvild Sørebø , Nordmo Magnus
Published: November 2019

The aim of this systematic review is to answer the question: Is substantial, stable, and long‐term weight loss a viable goal for adults with obesity? To answer this question, we conducted a broad systematic search of non‐surgical and non‐pharmacological obesity treatment studies with the following strict criteria: (a) minimum 3‐year follow‐up, (b) 5% body mass lost, (c) no continued interventions in the follow‐up‐period, (d) prospective design, and (e) less than 30% attrition from the start of the follow‐up period. While the search revealed a very large number of published articles, only eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Several of the nonincluded studies report a majority of participants achieving satisfactory weight loss and little regain, especially among studies with continued interventions during the follow‐up period. In contrast, the eight high‐quality studies included in this study demonstrate a trend of weight regain towards pretreatment baseline. This review concludes that the majority of high‐quality follow‐up treatment studies of individuals with obesity are not successful in maintaining weight loss over time. The results suggest that excess weight can be lost but is likely regained over time, for the majority of participants.
Characterization and immunostimulatory activity of extracellular vesicles from Filifactor alocis
Authors: Kim Hyun Young , Lim Younggap , An Sun‐Jin , Choi Bong‐Kyu
Published: November 2019

Filifactor alocis, a gram‐positive, obligate anaerobic rod, is an emerging periodontal pathogen that is frequently isolated from patients with periodontitis, peri‐implantitis, and apical periodontitis. Recent studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) from gram‐negative periodontal pathogens, so‐called outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), harbor various effector molecules responsible for inducing host inflammatory responses. However, there are no reports of EVs from F. alocis. In this study, we purified and characterized the protein profiles of EVs from F. alocis and investigated their immunostimulatory activity on human monocytic THP‐1 and human oral keratinocyte HOK‐16B cell lines. Highly pure EVs were obtained from F. alocis using density gradient ultracentrifugation. Nanoparticle tracking analysis and transmission electron microscopy showed that F. alocis EVs were between 50 and 270 nm in diameter. Proteome analysis identified 28 proteins, including lipoproteins, autolysins, F. alocis complement inhibitor (FACIN), transporter‐related proteins, metabolism‐related proteins, and ribosomal proteins. Human cytokine array analysis showed that F. alocis EVs remarkably induced the expression of CCL1, CCL2, MIP‐1, CCL5, CXCL1, CXCL10, ICAM‐1, IL‐1β, IL‐1ra, IL‐6, IL‐8, MIF, SerpinE, and TNF‐α in THP‐1 cells and CXCL1, G‐CSF, GM‐CSF, IL‐6, and IL‐8 in HOK‐16B cells. The immunostimulatory activity of F. alocis EVs was similar to that of the whole bacterial cells. Our findings provide new insight into the role of EVs from gram‐positive oral bacteria in periodontal diseases.
Severe chronic kidney disease is associated with poor survival after initial CRT‐defibrillator tachyarrhythmia therapy
Authors: Adelstein Evan C. , Saba Samir , Jain Sandeep , Wang Norman C.
Published: November 2019

Background

Implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) recipients who receive appropriate device therapies have limited survival, and survival benefit in chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been questioned. We examined the association between CKD and survival after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)‐defibrillator tachyarrhythmia therapies.

Methods

We compared overall survival after appropriate shocks or anti‐tachycardia pacing in 439 CRT‐defibrillator recipients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35%, non‐right bundle‐branch block QRS pattern, and QRS duration >130 ms according to glomerular filtration rate (GFR) at implant, including 31 patients with GFR ≤30, 164 patients with GFR 31‐60, and 244 patients with GFR >60. At least one shock occurred in 302 patients (24 with GFR ≤30, 102 with GFR 31‐60, and 176 with GFR >60). Serial echocardiograms were also compared.

Results

Patients were followed 64 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 29‐94) after implant, including 32 months (IQR: 12‐61) after first therapy. Time to first therapy or shock was similar across GFR groups. However, survival after first therapy declined directly with declining GFR (P < .001), with median postshock survival of 90 days for GFR ≤30 (95% confidence of interval [CI]: 0‐233), 612 days (95% CI: 365‐859) for GFR 31‐60, and 1672 days (95% CI: 1396‐1948) for GFR >60. Declining GFR category, ischemic heart disease, diabetes, and increasing age were independently associated with increased postshock mortality. Echocardiographic response was similar across GFR groups and was not associated with post‐therapy survival.

Conclusions

Survival after appropriate tachyarrhythmia therapies, particularly shocks, is attenuated in patients with GFR ≤30. This raises concern over potential lack of survival benefit conferred by CRT‐defibrillators versus CRT‐pacemakers in this population.
Endophytic fungus Falciphora oryzae promotes lateral root growth by producing indole derivatives after sensing plant signals
Authors: Sun Xun , Wang Ning , Li Ping , Jiang Zhiyan , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Mengcen , Su Zhenzhu , Zhang Chulong , Lin Fucheng , Liang Yan
Published: November 2019

The endophytic fungus Falciphora oryzae was initially isolated from wild rice (Oryza granulata) and colonizes many crop species and promotes plant growth. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying F. oryzae‐mediated growth promotion are still unknown. We found that F. oryzae was able to colonize Arabidopsis thaliana. The most dramatic change after F. oryzae inoculation was observed in the root architecture, as evidenced by increased lateral root growth but reduced primary root length, similar to the effect of auxin, a significant plant growth hormone. The expression of genes responsible for auxin biosynthesis, transport, and signalling was regulated in Arabidopsis roots after F. oryzae cocultivation. Indole derivatives were detected at significantly higher levels in liquid media after cocultivation compared with separate cultivation of Arabidopsis and F. oryzae. Consistently, the expression of indole biosynthetic genes was highly upregulated in F. oryzae upon treatment with Arabidopsis exudates. Global analysis of Arabidopsis gene expression at the early stage after F. oryzae cocultivation suggested that signals were exchanged to initiate Arabidopsis–F. oryzae interactions. All these results suggest that signalling molecules from Arabidopsis roots are perceived by F. oryzae and induce the biosynthesis of indole derivatives in F. oryzae, consequently stimulating Arabidopsis lateral root growth.
Molybdate toxicity in Chinese cabbage is not the direct consequence of changes in sulphur metabolism
Authors: Zuidersma E. I. , Ausma T. , Stuiver C. E. E. , Prajapati D. H. , Hawkesford M. J. , De Kok L. J.
Published: November 2019

In polluted areas, plants may be exposed to supra‐optimal levels of the micronutrient molybdenum. The physiological basis of molybdenum phytotoxicity is poorly understood. Plants take up molybdenum as molybdate, which is a structural analogue of sulphate. Therefore, it is presumed that elevated molybdate concentrations may hamper the uptake and subsequent metabolism of sulphate, which may induce sulphur deficiency.

In the current research, Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensis) seedlings were exposed to 50, 100, 150 and 200 μm Na2MoO4 for 9 days.

Leaf chlorosis and a decreased plant growth occurred at concentrations ≥100 μm. Root growth was more affected than shoot growth. At ≥100 μm Na2MoO4, the sulphate uptake rate and capacity were increased, although only when expressed on a root fresh weight basis. When expressed on a whole plant fresh weight basis, which corrects for the impact of molybdate on the shoot‐to‐root ratio, the sulphate uptake rate and capacity remained unaffected. Molybdate concentrations ≥100 μm altered the mineral nutrient composition of plant tissues, although the levels of sulphur metabolites (sulphate, water‐soluble non‐protein thiols and total sulphur) were not altered. Moreover, the levels of nitrogen metabolites (nitrate, amino acids, proteins and total nitrogen), which are generally strongly affected by sulphate deprivation, were not affected. The root water‐soluble non‐protein thiol content was increased, and the tissue nitrate levels decreased, only at 200 μm Na2MoO4.

Evidently, molybdenum toxicity in Chinese cabbage was not due to the direct interference of molybdate with the uptake and subsequent metabolism of sulphate.
Overview of Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and association with fertility in female cattle
Authors: Alward Kayla J. , Bohlen Jillian F.
Published: November 2019

Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) is produced by granulosa cells of early‐antral follicles found on the ovary. After production, it enters circulation and can be detected from a blood sample with an ELISA. Multiple works have found that circulating AMH is a reliable marker of the antral follicle population (AFP) of an animal as well as directly correlated to an animal's response to a superovulation protocol. Research has also found high repeatability within an animal's oestrous cycle. Further use of AMH may be valuable as a reproductive management tool, based on previous research linking productive life with circulating AMH in heifers and success to various breeding protocols by AMH concentration. The aim of this review was to summarize previous works describing basic function of AMH as well as explore recent research examining AMH as a reproductive tool and measurement of fertility in dairy animals.
When a pedodontic examination leads to the diagnosis of osteopetrosis: A case report
Authors: Athanasiadou Eirini , Vlachou Christina , Theocharidou Apostolina , Tilaveridis Ioannis , Vargiami Efthimia , Antoniadis Konstantinos , Arapostathis Konstantinos
Published: November 2019

Background/aim

Osteopetrosis is an inherited disease characterized by increased bone density. Its genetic variability results in various phenotype expressions, whereas clinically are classified in three types: malignant infantile, intermediate and adult. The various oral manifestations of the disease give a crucial role to the pediatric dentists in diagnosis.

Case presentation

A 7‐year‐old girl with persistent swelling on right cheek visited a pedodontic clinic. After extra‐ and intra‐oral examination/findings, the patient was referred for further investigation concerning a possible general pathological background. An extraction, included in the initial dental treatment plan, led to the diagnosis of osteopetrosis. Various medical examinations co‐led to the diagnosis of osteopetrosis but without genetic identification. Extractions of carious teeth, under general anesthesia, and full cover or sealants, on chair, of unaffected teeth were conducted respectively to minimize the microbial load and to prevent from osteomyelitis relapse and new caries. Two more general anesthesia sessions took place due to relapse of lower jaw osteomyelitis. Follow‐up was conducted every 3 months for 2 years.

Conclusion

Osteopetrosis’ diagnosis can be triggered by its oral manifestations (rampant caries, osteonecrosis, enamel defects, malformed roots/crowns, missing teeth), for which the pediatric dentist could be the first observer. Management of these patients needs multidisciplinary approach and follow‐up appointments should be very frequent.
Pain appraisal and quality of life in 108 outpatients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Larice Sara , Ghiggia Ada , Di Tella Marialaura , Romeo Annunziata , Gasparetto Eleonora , Fusaro Enrico , Castelli Lorys , Tesio Valentina
Published: November 2019

Individual differences in emotional functioning, pain appraisal processing, and perceived social support may play a relevant role in the subjective experience of pain. Due to the paucity of data regarding individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), the present study aimed to examine pain intensity, emotional functioning (psychological distress and alexithymia), pain appraisal (pain beliefs, pain catastrophizing, and pain‐related coping strategies) and social support, and their relationships with the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with RA. Data were collected from 108 female patients diagnosed with RA. Clinically relevant levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms assessed by the HADS subscales were present in 34% and 41% of the patients, respectively, and about 24% of them exhibited the presence of alexithymia. The results of hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that pain intensity, alexithymia, the maladaptive beliefs regarding the stability of pain and the coping strategy of guarding explained 54% of the variance in the physical component of HRQoL (p < 0.001). Depression subscale of the HADS, alexithymia, the coping strategy of resting, and the rumination factor of pain catastrophizing significantly explained 40% of the variance in the mental component of HRQoL (p < 0.001). The present findings provide evidence regarding the importance of emotional functioning and pain appraisal in the negative impact of RA on patients’ quality of life. These findings provide additional evidence for the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain, further supporting the complex interaction between emotional, cognitive, and behavioral processes in patients with chronic pain.
Sarcolipin expression in human skeletal muscle: Influence of energy balance and exercise
Authors: Morales‐Alamo David , Martinez‐Canton Miriam , Gelabert‐Rebato Miriam , Martin‐Rincon Marcos , de Pablos‐Velasco Pedro , Holmberg Hans‐Christer , Calbet Jose A. L.
Published: November 2019

Sarcolipin (SLN) is a SERCA uncoupling protein associated with exercise performance and lower adiposity in mice. To determine SLN protein expression in human skeletal muscle and its relationship with adiposity, resting energy expenditure (REE), and performance, SLN was assessed by Western blot in 199 biopsies from two previous studies. In one study, 15 overweight volunteers underwent a pretest followed by 4 days of caloric restriction and exercise (45‐minute one‐arm cranking + 8‐hour walking), and 3 days on a control diet. Muscle biopsies were obtained from the trained and non‐exercised deltoid, and vastus lateralis (VL). In another study, 16 men performed seven sessions of 4‐6 × 30‐sec all‐out sprints on the cycle ergometer with both limbs, and their VL and triceps brachii biopsied pre‐ and post‐training. SLN expression was twofold and 44% higher in the VL than in the deltoids and triceps brachii, respectively. SLN was associated with neither adiposity nor REE, and was not altered by a severe energy deficit (5500 kcal/day). SLN and cortisol changes after the energy deficit were correlated (r = .38, P = .039). SLN was not altered by low‐intensity exercise in the overweight subjects, whereas it was reduced after sprint training in the other group. The changes in SLN with sprint training were inversely associated with the changes in gross efficiency (r = −.59, P = .016). No association was observed between aerobic or anaerobic performance and SLN expression. In conclusion, sarcolipin appears to play no role in regulating the fat mass of men. Sprint training reduces sarcolipin expression, which may improve muscle efficiency.
Pathogen inactivation with amotosalen plus UVA illumination minimally impacts microRNA expression in platelets during storage under standard blood banking conditions
Authors: Arnason Niels Arni , Johannson Freyr , Landrö Ragna , Hardarsson Björn , Irsch Johannes , Gudmundsson Sveinn , Rolfsson Ottar , Sigurjonsson Olafur E.
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

To reduce the risk of transfusion transmission infection, nucleic acid targeted methods have been developed to inactivate pathogens in PCs. miRNAs have been shown to play an important role in platelet function, and changes in the abundance of specific miRNAs during storage have been observed, as have perturbation effects related to pathogen inactivation (PI) methods. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of PI on selected miRNAs during storage.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Using a pool and split strategy, 3 identical buffy coat PC units were generated from a pool of 24 whole blood donors. Each unit received a different treatment: 1) Untreated platelet control in platelet additive solution (C‐PAS); 2) Amotosalen‐UVA‐treated platelets in PAS (PI‐PAS); and 3) untreated platelets in donor plasma (U‐PL). PCs were stored for 7 days under standard blood banking conditions. Standard platelet quality control (QC) parameters and 25 selected miRNAs were analyzed.

RESULTS

During the 7‐day storage period, differences were found in several QC parameters relating to PI treatment and storage in plasma, but overall the three treatments were comparable. Out of 25 miRNA tested changes in regulation of 5 miRNA in PI‐PAS and 3 miRNA U‐PL where detected compared to C‐PAS. A statistically significant difference was observed in down regulations miR‐96‐5p on Days 2 and 4, 61.9% and 61.8%, respectively, in the PI‐PAS treatment.

CONCLUSION

Amotosalen‐UVA treatment does not significantly alter the miRNA profile of platelet concentrates generated and stored using standard blood banking conditions.
Electrostatic field enhancement on end-caps of cylindrical field-emitters
Authors: Sarkar Shreya , Biswas Debabrata
Published: November 2019

The apex field enhancement factor (AFEF) γa of a cylindrical emitter depends sensitively on its end-cap geometry. The hemispherical end-cap is well studied due to its simplicity, but, in general, a cylindrical emitter may terminate in a variety of end-cap shapes. It is well known that the AFEF depends on the ratio h/Ra, where h is the total height of the emitter and Ra is the apex radius of curvature. The authors show here that there can be a large variation in γa as the end-cap geometry is altered while keeping h/Ra fixed. They carry out a systematic numerical study and determine an approximate formula for γa in terms of measurable end-cap geometry parameters such as its height H, the radius of the cylinder R, and the apex radius of curvature Ra. They show that the formula is robust and can predict the net field emission current with errors generally less than 40%.
The Sle1 Cell Wall Amidase Is Essential for β-Lactam Resistance in Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
USA300
Authors: Thalsø-Madsen Ida , Torrubia Fernando Ruiz , Xu Lijuan , Petersen Andreas , Jensen Camilla , Frees Dorte
Published: November 2019

Most clinically relevant methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) strains have become resistant to β-lactams antibiotics through horizontal acquisition of the
mecA
gene encoding PBP2a, a peptidoglycan transpeptidase with low affinity for β-lactams. The level of resistance conferred by
mecA
is, however, strain dependent, and the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain poorly understood.
Bacillus subtilisTerC Family Proteins Help Prevent Manganese Intoxication
Authors: Paruthiyil Srinand , Pinochet-Barros Azul , Huang Xiaojuan , Helmann John D.
Published: November 2019

Manganese homeostasis is primarily regulated at the level of transport.Bacillus subtilisMntR serves as a Mn(II)-activated repressor of importer genes (mntHandmntABC) and an activator of efflux genes (mnePandmneS). Elevated intracellular Mn(II) also binds to Mn-sensing riboswitches to activate transcription ofyybPandykoY, which encodes a TerC family member. Here, we demonstrate that two TerC family proteins, YceF and YkoY, help prevent Mn(II) intoxication. TerC family proteins are widespread in bacteria and may influence host-pathogen interactions, but their effects on Mn(II) homeostasis are unclear. Our results suggest that TerC proteins work by Mn(II) export under Mn(II) overload conditions to help alleviate toxicity.
Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus ORF66 Is Essential for Late Gene Expression and Virus Production via Interaction with ORF34
Authors: Watanabe Tadashi , Nishimura Mayu , Izumi Taisuke , Kuriyama Kazushi , Iwaisako Yuki , Hosokawa Kohei , Takaori-Kondo Akifumi , Fujimuro Masahiro
Published: November 2019

KSHV ORF66 is expressed during the early stages of lytic infection, and ORF66 and vPIC are thought to contribute significantly to late gene expression. However, the physiological importance of ORF66 in terms of vPIC formation remains poorly understood. Therefore, we generated an ORF66-deficient BAC clone and evaluated its viral replication. The results showed that ORF66 plays a critical role in virus production and the transcription of L genes. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the function of ORF66 in virus replication using ORF66-deficient KSHV. We also clarified that ORF66 interacts with the transcription start site of the K8.1 gene, a late gene. Furthermore, we identified the ORF34-binding motifs in the ORF66 C terminus: three C-X-X-C sequences and a leucine-repeat sequence, which are highly conserved among beta- and gammaherpesviruses. Our study provides insights into the regulatory mechanisms of not only the late gene expression of KSHV but also those of other herpesviruses.
VAMP8 Contributes to the TRIM6-Mediated Type I Interferon Antiviral Response during West Nile Virus Infection
Authors: van Tol Sarah , Atkins Colm , Bharaj Preeti , Johnson Kendra N. , Hage Adam , Freiberg Alexander N. , Rajsbaum Ricardo
Published: November 2019

WNV is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that poses a threat to human health across large discontinuous areas throughout the world. Infection with WNV results in febrile illness, which can progress to severe neurological disease. Currently, there are no approved treatment options to control WNV infection. Understanding the cellular immune responses that regulate viral replication is important in diversifying the resources available to control WNV. Here, we show that the elimination of TRIM6 in human cells results in an increase in WNV replication and alters the expression and function of other components of the IFN-I pathway through VAMP8. Dissecting the interactions between WNV and host defenses both informs basic molecular virology and promotes the development of host- and virus-targeted antiviral strategies.
The G Protein-Coupled Receptor FFAR2 Promotes Internalization during Influenza A Virus Entry
Authors: Wang Guangwen , Jiang Li , Wang Jinliang , Zhang Jie , Kong Fandi , Li Qibing , Yan Ya , Huang Shanyu , Zhao Yuhui , Liang Libin , Li Junping , Sun Nan , Hu Yuzhen , Shi Wenjun , Deng Guohua , Chen Pucheng , Liu Liling , Zeng Xianying , Tian Guobin , Bu Zhigao , Chen Hualan , Li Chengjun
Published: November 2019

To complete its replication cycle, IAV hijacks the host endocytosis machinery to invade cells. However, the underlying mechanisms of how IAV is internalized into host cells remain poorly understood, emphasizing the need to elucidate the role of host factors in IAV entry into cells. In this study, we identified FFAR2 as an important host factor for the efficient replication of both low-pathogenic and highly pathogenic IAV. We revealed that FFAR2 facilitates the internalization of IAV into target cells during the early stage of infection. Upon further characterization of the role of FFAR2-associated proteins in virus replication, we found that the FFAR2–β-arrestin1–AP2B1 signaling cascade is important for the efficient endocytosis of IAV. Our findings thus further our understanding of the biological details of IAV entry into host cells and establish FFAR2 as a potential target for antiviral drug development.
Exploring Arizona earth fissures: An anthropogenic geologic hazard
Authors: Carlson Grace , Carnes Lorraine K. , Cook Joseph P.
Published: November 2019

Earth fissures are tensile surface cracks exposed at Earth’s surface. In Arizona, such fissures are predominantly found in the central and southeastern regions of the state, where they form in response to subsidence driven by groundwater pumping. Growth and erosion of these fissures often occurs during large monsoon storms, resulting in slumping and collapse of the fissure walls, propagation of the fissure head, as well as the development of gully networks out from the main fissure stem. Fissure initiation and propagation threaten existing infrastructure, can cause property damage, and increase the potential for groundwater contamination from surface pollutants. It is exceedingly important that these hazards be well understood, documented, and monitored.

The Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS) founded the earth fissure program in 2007 to systematically identify, map, and monitor earth fissures in Arizona. Data are released through an interactive viewer (https://uagis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id = 98729f76e4644f1093d1c2cd6dabb584), which is regularly updated to show new fissures and growth of existing ones. Additionally, beginning in November 2018, repeated surveys of a series of large earth fissures in Apache Junction, Arizona, (50 km east of Phoenix) have been done using UAV-SfM (unmanned aerial vehicle–structure from motion) to better elucidate the processes controlling the short-term evolution of this geologic hazard.

This field trip will take us to two fissure locations in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. The first will be the Apache Junction earth fissure area, where we will be able to observe the large, dramatic scale of these features, as well as highlight the important role large monsoon storms have on fissure propagation and geomorphological changes. Furthermore, we will show how high-resolution topographic surveys provide a means for significant improvements to current mapping and monitoring efforts for assessing hazards related to earth fissures. The second site will be a fissure location just to the southwest of Apache Junction in Chandler Heights, Arizona, which we refer to as the “Queen Creek” earth fissure area. At this field-trip stop, we will show how fissure initiation and growth threaten human development, as well as describe the role the AZGS earth fissure program plays in identifying and monitoring these hazards.
Volcanic and marine stratigraphy along the El Álamo Canyon, Santa Rosalía Basin, Baja California Sur
Authors: Osorio-Ocampo Susana , García-Sánchez Laura , Marcela Lira-Beltrán Reyna , Macías* José Luis , Pola Antonio , Avellán Denis Ramón , Ocampo-Díaz Yam Zul Ernesto , Groppelli Gianluca , Sulpizio Roberto , García-Tenorio Felipe , González-Barba Gerardo , Sosa-Ceballos Giovanni
Published: November 2019

This field trip highlights evidence of late Pliocene–early Pleistocene submarine and subaerial volcanism coeval with marine and marginal-marine sedimentation in the Santa Rosalía Basin in Baja California. The best exposures of these rocks occur at the El Álamo Canyon, which exhibits outcrops of the Tirabuzón and Infierno formations interbedded with submarine and subaerial volcanic and volcaniclastic deposits that are covered by the subaerial ignimbrites of Reforma and Aguajito calderas. Extensive field mapping and stratigraphy carried out in this canyon, aided with 40Ar/39Ar, and U-Pb geochronology, allowed us to divide the stratigraphy into three main sequences that, from base to top, are: (1) Santa Rosalía succession, (2) the Reforma caldera complex, and (3) El Aguajito caldera. This refined stratigraphy indicates that eight episodes of volcanism occurred between 2.5 and 1.36 Ma, during marine sedimentation in an internal continental shelf and in estuaries, coastal lagoons, or protected bays as supported by the fossil record. This sedimentary and volcanic interbedding suggests transgressions and regressions of the sea level, as well as tectonic uplifting. After the inception of volcanism in the Reforma caldera complex (1.29 Ma), the area emerged from these shallow seas followed by the formation of the Aguajito caldera (1.1 Ma), and then later on by the Tres Vírgenes volcanic complex (0.3 Ma). The last complex erupted a lava flow ca. 22 ka that so far stands as the youngest activity in the region. The magmatic evolution in the region is characterized by post-subduction calc-alkaline magmatism. Such magmatism is expressed as pure calc-alkaline rocks from El Aguajito–Reforma calderas, and as hybrid transitional magmas formed by adakitic rocks from the Tres Vírgenes volcanic complex.
Tectonic development of the Colorado Plateau Transition Zone, central Arizona: Insights from lower lithosphere xenoliths and volcanic host rocks
Authors: Chapman* Alan D. , Riggs Nancy , Ducea Mihai N. , Saleeby Jason B. , Rautela Ojashvi , Shields Jessie
Published: November 2019

A growing body of evidence suggests that continental arc lower crust and underlying mantle wedge assemblages native to the Mojave Desert (i.e., the southern California batholith) were displaced eastward during Laramide shallow-angle subduction, and reattached to the base of the Colorado Plateau Transition Zone (central Arizona) and farther inboard. On this field trip, we highlight two xenolith localities from the Transition Zone (Camp Creek and Chino Valley) that likely contain remnants of the missing Mojave lithosphere. At these localities, nodules of garnet clinopyroxenite, the dominant xenolith type at both studied localities, yield low jadeite components in clinopyroxene, chemically homogeneous “type-B” garnet, and peak conditions of equilibration at 600–900 °C and 9–28 kbar. These relations strongly suggest a continental arc residue (“arclogite”), rather than a lower-plate subduction (“eclogite”), origin. Zircon grains extracted from these nodules yield a bimodal age distribution with peaks at ca. 75 and 150 Ma, overlapping southern California batholith pluton ages, and suggesting a consanguineous relationship. In contrast, Mesozoic and early Cenozoic igneous rocks native to SW Arizona, with age peaks at ca. 60 and 170 Ma, do not provide as close a match. In light of these results, we suggest that Transition Zone xenoliths: (1) began forming in Late Jurassic time as a mafic keel to continental arc magmas emplaced into the Mojave Desert and associated with eastward subduction of the Farallon plate; (2) experienced a second ca. 80–70 Ma pulse of growth associated with increased magmatism in the southern California batholith; (3) were transported ~500 km eastward along the leading edge of the shallowly subducting Farallon plate; and (4) were reaffixed to the base of the crust at the new location, in central Arizona. Cenozoic zircon U-Pb, garnet-whole rock Sm-Nd, and titanite U-Pb ages suggest that displaced arclogite remained at elevated temperature (>700 °C) for 10s of m.y., following its dispersal, and until late Oligocene entrainment in host latite. The lack of arclogite and abundance of spinel peridotite xenoliths in Miocene and younger mafic volcanic host rocks (such as those at the San Carlos xenolith locality), and the presence of seismically fast and vertically dipping features beneath the western Colorado Plateau, suggest that arclogite has been foundering into the mantle and being replaced by upwelling asthenosphere since Miocene time.
Evidence for Mesoproterozoic ca. 1470–1444 Ma regional deformation of the Mazatzal Group and equivalent rocks in the type area of the Mazatzal orogeny, Tonto Basin, Arizona
Authors: Doe Michael F. , Daniel Christopher G.
Published: November 2019

New detrital zircon data from deformed metasedimentary rocks of the Mazatzal Group in the northern Mazatzal Mountains, Arizona, indicate that formation of a regional fold-and-thrust belt occurred after ca. 1570 Ma. Regional correlations with pelites within the syncline at Four Peaks and deformed and intruded sediments in the upper Salt River Canyon allow us to revise the timing of deformation to ca. 1470–1444 Ma, contemporaneous with the Picuris orogeny in New Mexico. Fold- and thrust-style deformation of the Mazatzal Group was previously interpreted to be Paleoproterozoic and was a hallmark of the ca. 1650 Ma Mazatzal orogeny in the southwestern United States. However, recognition that protoliths of the deformed rocks formed in the Mesoproterozoic requires reconsideration of the age and regional tectonic significance of the orogenic event in its type locality. Our new findings are incompatible with published tectonic models invoking a regional ca. 1650 Ma Mazatzal orogeny and localized, pluton-enhanced deformation across the region ca. 1450 Ma.

This field trip visits and reviews three localities across the Tonto Basin of central Arizona: (1) the northern Mazatzal Mountains; (2) Four Peaks of the southern Mazatzal Mountains; and (3) exposures of the early Mesoproterozoic Yankee Joe Group in the upper Salt River Canyon. At each location, deformation previously attributed to ca. 1650 Ma is, instead, demonstrably younger and represents a different episode of regional orogenesis. Thus, the nomenclature and tectonic significance of ca. 1650 Ma versus 1450 Ma regional orogenic events must be reconsidered and revised to reflect our present data and understanding, with implications for the tectonic evolution of Proterozoic rocks of southwestern North America.