bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of ω‐subunit of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase in stress response
Authors: Bhardwaj Neerupma , Syal Kirtimaan , Chatterji Dipankar 
Published: March 2018

AbstractppGpp, an alarmone for stringent response, plays an important role in the reprogramming of the transcription complex at the time of stress. In Escherichia coli, ppGpp mediates its action by binding to at least two different sites on RNA polymerase (RNAP). One of the sites to which ppGpp binds to RNAP is at the β′‐ω interface; however, the underlying molecular mechanism and the physiological relevance of ppGpp binding to this site remain unclear. In this study, we have performed UV cross‐linking experiments using 32P azido‐labeled ppGpp to probe its association with RNAP in the absence and presence of ω, and observed weaker binding of ppGpp to the RNAP without ω. Furthermore, we followed the binding kinetics of ppGpp to RNAP with and without ω by isothermal titration calorimetry and found it to be concurrent with the cross‐linking results. Native ω is intrinsically disordered, and we have used a previously characterized structured mutant of ω, which affects the plasticity of the active site of RNAP. Results show that the flexibility conferred by the unstructured ω is a prerequisite for ppGpp binding to RNAP. We have analyzed the stress‐associated phenotypes in an E. coli strain devoid of ω (∆rpoZ). ppGpp levels in ∆rpoZ strain were found to be similar to that of the wild‐type strain. Interestingly, when the ∆rpoZ strain of E. coli was transferred after nutritional stress to an enriched media, the recovery of growth was compromised. We have identified a new phenotype of ∆rpoZ strain corresponding to defect in biofilm formation in minimal media.
Effect of high amylose resistant starch (HAM‐RS2) supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in hemodialysis patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Tayebi Khosroshahi Hamid , Vaziri Nosratola D. , Abedi Behzad , Asl Bahlol Habibi , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Jing Wanghui , Vatankhah Amir Mansur 
Published: March 2018

AbstractIntroduction: Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress play a central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease and numerous other complications of CKD. Recent studies demonstrated that consumption of a diet enriched with amylose (HAM‐RS2), attenuates oxidative stress and inflammation, and improves intestinal microbiome in CKD rats. The present study was designed to explore the effect of dietary amylose supplementation in hemodialysis patients.Methods: Forty‐six stable hemodialysis patients were randomized to receive biscuits containing 20 g/day during the first four weeks and 25 g/day in the next four weeks of either HAM‐RS2 or wheat‐flour. Fasting predialysis blood samples obtained before, during and at the end of trial were processed for biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation.Findings: There was no significant difference in baseline clinical or biochemical parameters between the two groups. Serum levels of TNF‐α, IL‐6, and malondialdehyde declined significantly (P < 0.05) in the HAM‐RS2‐treated group but remained unchanged in the placebo‐treated group. No significant difference was observed in serum Interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and hs‐CRP concentrations and total antioxidant activity between two groups. Serum urea and creatinine concentrations significantly declined and severity of constipation improved in HAM‐RS2‐treated patients (P < 0.05). HAM‐RS2 consumption was well tolerated and did not cause discernible side effects.Discussion: Administration of HAM‐RS2 for eight weeks significantly reduced levels of inflammatory and oxidative markers in hemodialysis patients confirming the results observed in CKD animals. Long term trials are needed to explore the impact of HAM‐RS2 supplementation on clinical outcomes in end stage renal disease population.
High rate of PIK3CA mutations but no TP53 mutations in low‐grade adenosquamous carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Bataillon Guillaume , Fuhrmann Laetitia , Girard Elodie , Menet Emanuelle , Laé Marick , Capovilla Mathieu , Treilleux Isabelle , Arnould Laurent , Penault‐Llorca Frederique , Rouzier Roman , Marchiò Caterina , Bieche Ivan , Vincent‐Salomon Anne 
Published: March 2018

AimsLow‐grade adenosquamous carcinoma of the breast (LGASC) is a rare variant of metaplastic carcinoma characterised by a favourable outcome and histologically composed of glandular and squamous elements in a spindle cell background typically associated with a lymphocytic stromal reaction. Because of its rarity, the immunophenotypic and genetic profile of LGASC has not been sufficiently characterised. The aim of this study was to gain insights into the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of LGASC.Methods and resultsWe reviewed the clinical and morphological features and detailed the immunohistochemical characteristics of a retrospective series of 13 LGASCs. Targeted sequencing of 50 genes was performed in 10 of 13 cases. Identified mutations were further assessed by Sanger sequencing in a validation series of 11 additional cases. All tumours showed a triple‐negative immunophenotype, expressed ‘basal’ keratins, showed variable levels of epidermal growth factor receptor expression, and did not express androgen receptor. Sequencing analysis of the screening set of LGASCs revealed a high rate (seven of 10 cases) of PIK3CA mutations, whereas no TP53 mutations were found. All PIK3CA mutations were missense mutations located either in exon 20 (n = 6) or in exon 9 (n = 1). The global PIK3CA mutation rate, including the validation series, was 52% (11 of 21 cases). No disease recurrences were observed. [Correction added on 11 June 2018, after first online publication: The percentage of mutation rate was corrected to 52%]ConclusionsOur results indicate that LGASC of the breast is a low‐grade triple‐negative breast cancer that harbours a basal‐like phenotype with no androgen receptor expression, and shows a high rate of PIK3CA mutations but no TP53 mutations.
Spruce Beetle outbreaks guide American Three‐toed Woodpecker Picoides dorsalis occupancy patterns in subalpine forests
Authors: Kelly Julia J. , Latif Quresh S. , Saab Victoria A. , Veblen Thomas T. 
Published: March 2018

American Three‐toed Woodpeckers Picoides dorsalis are considered a sensitive species by the United States Bureau of Land Management and are on the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's Watch List. In Idaho, Oregon and Washington, they are of conservation concern due to low abundance and an apparent reliance on disturbed, old‐growth forests. This species is strongly associated with Spruce Beetle Dendroctonous rufipennis epidemics, yet their occupancy relation with epidemic conditions have not been described. We studied Three‐toed Woodpecker occupancy patterns in spruce–fir forests experiencing varying degrees of beetle infestation between 2013 and 2016. Accounting for detection probability, we found a strong positive relationship between occupancy and the density of currently infested trees. Estimated occupancy was 0.57 (Bayesian credible interval 0.49, 0.64) for 75‐m‐radius survey points with zero infested spruce trees vs. 0.99 (Bayesian credible interval 0.99, 1) for points with 235 recently infested stems per ha. In contrast, we found no relationships with density of trees infested at least 3 years prior to sampling, density of older snags (i.e. > 10 years dead) or quadratic mean diameter of healthy or recently infested trees. These results provide evidence of the importance of active Spruce Beetle infestation for Three‐toed Woodpecker habitat. Conserving Spruce Beetle‐infested trees for at least 3 years following the onset of a beetle epidemic would benefit Three‐toed Woodpecker populations and other species that depend on woodpecker‐excavated cavities. We suggest managers consider these results when planning logging activities aimed at Spruce Beetle mitigation.
Weather conditions and date influence male Sage Grouse attendance rates at leks
Authors: Fremgen Aleshia L. , Hansen Christopher P. , Rumble Mark A. , Gamo R. Scott , Millspaugh Joshua j. 
Published: March 2018

For lek‐breeding birds, lek attendance can be correlated with mating success. Variability in lek attendance could confound interpretation of male reproductive effort and complicate the use of lek counts as an index to monitor abundance. We assessed the daily probability of male Sage Grouse Centrocercus urophasianus lek attendance and explored implications of attendance on lek counts. We fitted 145 males with global positioning system (GPS) transmitters over 4 years in Carbon County, Wyoming. We evaluated influences of lek size and topography, date, weather, and bird characteristics such as age on daily morning lek attendance. The daily probability of attendance ranged considerably each year, from 0.120 (, 95% CI 0.051–0.259) in 2012 to 0.917 (95% CI 0.844–0.957) in 2013 with peak attendance dates ranging from 8 April (2012) to 11 May (2011). Attendance decreased with increasing precipitation on the observation day. Only 44–79% of lek counts occurred on days without precipitation and with high attendance (i.e. within 0.1 probability of peak predicted attendance). Although lek counts and population abundance, predicted using attendance rates, followed a similar trend, the relationship was not significantly correlated. We provide empirical evidence supporting current lek‐count protocols: managers should avoid counting leks on days with precipitation because attendance is reduced. Although managers sometimes only complete one to two lek counts per year on active leks, completing at least three lek counts as recommended in protocols increases chances for higher male counts and improves the relationship between counts and abundance. Attendance varies annually, making it challenging to use lek counts to assess regional population trends over short time periods unless attendance is accounted for.
Exploring strategies to overcome extra-organisational challenges faced by community pharmacies in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Kho Boon Phiaw , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Lim Ching Jou , Saleem Fahad 
Published: March 2018

Abstract

Objectives
The aims of this research were to determine extra-organisational challenges (e.g. market competition, governing policies) faced by community pharmacies in Sarawak, the coping strategies employed to deal with these challenges and explore potential legislative changes that can attenuate the intensity of these challenges.

Methods
Survey questionnaires (n = 184) were posted to all eligible community pharmacies in Sarawak, Malaysia. The questionnaire included sections on participants’ demographic data, extra-organisational challenges faced, coping strategies employed and proposals to improve community pharmacy legislations. Items were constructed based on the findings of a prior qualitative research supplemented with relevant literature about these issues.

Key findings
High levels of homogeneity in responses were recorded on various extra-organisational challenges faced, particularly those economy-oriented. Strategic changes to counter these challenges were focused on pricing and product stocked, rather than services provision. Highly rated strategies included increasing discounts for customers (n = 54; 68%) and finding cheaper suppliers (n = 70; 88%). Legislative changes proposed that might increase their share of the pharmaceutical market were strongly supported by respondents, particularly about making it compulsory for general practitioners to provide patients the option to have their medicines dispensed in community pharmacies (n = 72; 90%).

Conclusions
Current legislative conditions and Malaysian consumer mindset may have constrained the strategic choices of community pharmacies to deal with the strong extra-organisational challenges. A long-term multipronged approach to address these issues and increased involvement of community pharmacists themselves in this agenda are required to influence practice change.
Innate‐like CD8+ T‐cells and NK cells: converging functions and phenotypes
Authors: Kurioka Ayako , Klenerman Paul , Willberg Christian B. 
Published: March 2018

SummaryNew data in the worlds of both innate‐like CD8+ T‐cells and natural killer (NK) cells have, in parallel, clarified some of the phenotypes of these cells and also their associated functions. While these cells are typically viewed entirely separately, the emerging innate functions of T‐cells and, similarly, the adaptive functions of NK cells suggest that many behaviours can be considered in parallel. In this review we compare the innate functions of CD8+ T‐cells (especially mucosal‐associated invariant T‐cells) and those of NK cells, and how these relate to expression of phenotypic markers, especially CD161 and CD56.
MicroRNA‐30c suppresses the pro‐fibrogenic effects of cardiac fibroblasts induced by TGF‐β1 and prevents atrial fibrosis by targeting TGFβRII
Authors: Xu Juan , Wu Haiqing , Chen Songwen , Qi Baozhen , Zhou Genqing , Cai Lidong , Zhao Liqun , Wei Yong , Liu Shaowen 
Published: March 2018

AbstractAtrial fibrosis serves as an important contributor to atrial fibrillation (AF). Recent data have suggested that microRNA‐30c (miR‐30c) is involved in fibrotic remodelling and cancer development, but the specific role of miR‐30c in atrial fibrosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of miR‐30c in atrial fibrosis and its underlying mechanisms through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Our results indicate that miR‐30c is significantly down‐regulated in the rat abdominal aortic constriction (AAC) model and in the cellular model of fibrosis induced by transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1). Overexpression of miR‐30c in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) markedly inhibits CF proliferation, differentiation, migration and collagen production, whereas decrease in miR‐30c leads to the opposite results. Moreover, we identified TGFβRII as a target of miR‐30c. Finally, transferring adeno‐associated virus 9 (AAV9)‐miR‐30c into the inferior vena cava of rats attenuated fibrosis in the left atrium following AAC. These data indicate that miR‐30c attenuates atrial fibrosis via inhibition of CF proliferation, differentiation, migration and collagen production by targeting TGFβRII, suggesting that miR‐30c might be a novel potential therapeutic target for preventing atrial fibrosis.
Postnatal periodontal ligament as a novel adult stem cell source for regenerative corneal cell therapy
Authors: Yam Gary Hin‐Fai , Teo Ericia Pei‐Wen , Setiawan Melina , Lovatt Matthew J , Yusoff Nur Zahirah Binte M , Fuest Matthias , Goh Bee‐Tin , Mehta Jodhbir S 
Published: March 2018

AbstractCorneal opacities are a leading cause of global blindness. They are conventionally treated by the transplantation of donor corneal tissue, which is, restricted by a worldwide donor material shortage and allograft rejection. Autologous adult stem cells with a potential to differentiate into corneal stromal keratocytes (CSKs) could offer a suitable choice of cells for regenerative cell therapy. Postnatal periodontal ligament (PDL) contains a population of adult stem cells, which has a similar embryological origin as CSK, that is cranial neural crest. We harvested PDL cells from young adult teeth extracted because of non‐functional or orthodontic reason and differentiated them towards CSK phenotype using a two‐step protocol with spheroid formation followed by growth factor and cytokine induction in a stromal environment (human amnion stroma and porcine corneal stroma). Our results showed that the PDL‐differentiated CSK‐like cells expressed CSK markers (CD34, ALDH3A1, keratocan, lumican, CHST6, B3GNT7 and Col8A2) and had minimal expression of genes related to fibrosis and other lineages (vasculogenesis, adipogenesis, myogenesis, epitheliogenesis, neurogenesis and hematogenesis). Introduction of PDL spheroids into the stroma of porcine corneas resulted in extensive migration of cells inside the host stroma after 14‐day organ culture. Their quiescent nature and uniform cell distribution resembled to that of mature CSKs inside the native stroma. Our results demonstrated the potential translation of PDL cells for regenerative corneal cell therapy for corneal opacities.
Variations in practice patterns and resource utilization in patients treated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Adwani Sunil H. , Yuan Cai , Alsaleh Leen , Pepe Julie , Abusaada Khalid 
Published: March 2018

AbstractRationale, aims, and objectivesSeveral studies have looked at patient‐related variables influencing hospital length of stay (LOS) in patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). However, there has been increasing recognition that physician‐related factors also play a significant role. This study aims to evaluate differences in practice patterns between teaching and nonteaching services and their effect on LOS in a large community hospital.MethodsA retrospective study of 354 patients admitted to Florida Hospital, Orlando, with AECOPD between January 2009 and December 2011. Patients who presented with acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation were excluded. Practice patterns of interest were use of oral versus intravenous systemic steroids, use of oral versus intravenous antibiotics, and utilization of consultations.ResultsLength of stay was significantly lower in the teaching compared with the nonteaching group (2.80 vs. 5.04 days, P < .001). There was significantly greater use of oral steroids (85% vs. 8.9%, P < .001), greater use of oral antibiotics (72% vs. 33%, P < .001), and lower utilization of consults (0.3 vs. 1.4 consults per patient, P < .001) in the teaching compared with the nonteaching group. The teaching service was independently associated with decreased LOS in a multivariable regression model. However, after adjustment for the difference in practice patterns between the 2 groups, the teaching service was no longer associated with decreased LOS. Of the practice patterns, only utilization of consults was independently associated with increased LOS.ConclusionsThe teaching service had decreased LOS compared with the nonteaching service in patients hospitalized for AECOPD. The observed difference was completely explained by differences in practice patterns between the 2 groups. The study identifies an opportunity for more efficient and cost‐effective care of AECOPD patients through streamlining of consultations, use of oral steroids in lieu of IV steroids, and antibiotic stewardship.
Structured Under‐Specification of Life Cycle Impact Assessment Data for Building Assemblies
Authors: Tecchio Paolo , Gregory Jeremy , Ghattas Randa , Kirchain Randolph 
Published: March 2018

SummaryThe existence of uncertainties and variations in data represents a remaining challenge for life cycle assessment (LCA). Moreover, a full analysis may be complex, time‐consuming, and implemented mainly when a product design is already defined. Structured under‐specification, a method developed to streamline LCA, is here proposed to support the residential building design process, by quantifying environmental impact when specific information on the system under analysis cannot be available. By means of structured classifications of materials and building assemblies, it is possible to use surrogate data during the life cycle inventory phase and thus to obtain environmental impact and associated uncertainty. The bill of materials of a building assembly can be specified using minimal detail during the design process. The low‐fidelity characterization of a building assembly and the uncertainty associated with these low levels of fidelity are systematically quantified through structured under‐specification using a structured classification of materials. The analyst is able to use this classification to quantify uncertainty in results at each level of specificity. Concerning building assemblies, an average decrease of uncertainty of 25% is observed at each additional level of specificity within the data structure. This approach was used to compare different exterior wall options during the early design process. Almost 50% of the comparisons can be statistically differentiated at even the lowest level of specificity. This data structure is the foundation of a streamlined approach that can be applied not only when a complete bill of materials is available, but also when fewer details are known.
Attenuated behaviour in Cornelia de Lange and fragile X syndromes
Authors: Bell L. , Oliver C. , Wittkowski A. , Moss J. , Hare D. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractBackgroundCatatonia‐like presentations in people with autism have been increasingly recognised within research and diagnostic guidelines. The recently developed Attenuated Behaviour Questionnaire has identified that attenuated behaviour [autistic catatonia] is very prevalent in people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and associated with repetitive behaviour. In the current study, we investigated attenuated behaviour within two genetic syndromes associated with ASD and examined ASD and repetitive behaviour as longitudinal predictors of attenuated behaviour.MethodThe Attenuated Behaviour Questionnaire was completed by parents/carers of 33 individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and 69 with fragile X syndrome (FXS). Information collected from the same informants 4 years previously was utilised to examine ASD and repetitive behaviour as predictors of later attenuated behaviour, controlling for age, gender and ability.ResultsCatatonia‐like attenuated behaviour was reported for individuals with CdLS (30.3%) and FXS (11.6%). Slowed movement was more prevalent in people with CdLS. No other phenotypic differences were observed. Across the two groups, repetitive behaviour predicted the presence of attenuated behaviour 4 years later, after controlling for age, gender and ability.ConclusionsAttenuated behaviour can be identified in individuals with CdLS and FXS and may have an effect on both adaptive behaviour and quality of life. Repetitive behaviours predicted subsequent risk within both groups and should be assessed by services as part of a pro‐active strategy of support.
Neuroanatomical connections between kisspeptin neurones and somatostatin neurones in the female and male rat hypothalamus: A possible involvement of SSTR1 in kisspeptin release
Authors: Dufourny L. , Delmas O. , Teixeira‐Gomes A.‐P. , Decourt C. , Sliwowska J. H. 
Published: March 2018

Somatostatin (SST), a neuropeptide involved in the central modulation of several physiological functions, is co‐distributed in the same hypothalamic areas as kisspeptin (KP), the most potent secretagogue of the gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion known to date. Because SST infused i.c.v. evoked a potent inhibition of GnRH release, we explored the neuroanatomical relationships between KP and SST populations in male and female rats. Accordingly, intact males and ovariectomised oestradiol‐replaced females were killed and their brains processed aiming to simultaneously detect KP, SST and synapsin, a marker for synapses. We observed numerous appositions of KP on SST neurones both in the female and male arcuate nucleus (ARC) and ventromedial hypothalamus. A large association between SST terminals and KP neurones at the level of the pre‐optic area was also observed in female rats and in a more limited frame in males. Finally, most KP neurones from the ARC showed SST appositions in both sexes. To determine whether SST could affect KP cell activity, we assessed whether SST receptors (SSTR) were present on KP neurones in the ARC. We also looked for the presence of SSTR1 and SSTR2A in the brain of male rats. Brains were processed using a sequential double immunocytochemistry aiming to detect KP and SSTR1 or KP and SSTR2A. We observed overlapping distributions of immunoreactive neurones for SSTR1 and KP and counted approximately one‐third of KP neurones with SSTR1. By contrast, neurones labelled for SSTR2A or KP were often juxtaposed in the ARC and the occurrence of double‐labelled neurones was sporadic (< 5%). These results suggest that the action of SST on KP neurones would pass mainly through SSTR1 at the level of the ARC.