bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Srk1 kinase, a SR protein‐specific kinase, is important for sexual reproduction, plant infection and pre‐mRNA processing in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Wang Guanghui , Sun Peng , Gong Ziwen , Gu Lianfeng , Lou Yi , Fang Wenqin , Zhang Lianhu , Su Li , Yang Tao , Wang Baohua , Zhou Jie , Xu Jin‐Rong , Wang Zonghua , Zheng Wenhui 
Published: July 2018

SummarySR protein‐specific kinases (SRPKs) uniquely with a spacer region are important splicing factors from yeast to human. However, little is known about their biological functions in filamentous fungi. Therefore, we characterized a SRPK called SRK1 in wheat scab fungus Fusarium graminearum. Our data showed that Srk1 is required for vegetative growth, sexual reproduction and plant infection, and plays critical roles in pre‐mRNA alternative splicing and gene expression. Remarkably, we found that Srk1 displayed dynamic shuttling between cytoplasm and the nucleus, which is regulated by the divergent spacer domain rather than its kinase activity, suggesting a regulatory mechanism for Srk1. Interestingly, Srk1‐GFP also localized to the septal pores, indicating a possible role of Srk1 unrelated to mRNA processing. Although both K1 and K2 lobes of the kinase domain are essential for Srk1 functions, the K2 but not K1 lobe is responsible for the septal pore localization. Lastly, we established that Srk1 physically interacts with the two SR proteins, FgNpl3 and FgSrp1. Overall, our results indicated that SRK1 regulates fungal development, plant infection and mRNA processing by phosphorylation of other splicing factors including SR proteins, and the spacer domain regulates the functions of Srk1 by modulating its nucleocytoplasmic shuttling.
Distributing regionally, distinguishing locally: examining the underlying effects of local land use on airborne bacterial biodiversity
Authors: Docherty Kathryn M. , Pearce Douglas S. , Lemmer Kristina M. , Hale Rebecca L. 
Published: July 2018

SummaryAirborne bacteria are abundant and can vary with land use. Urban expansion is increasing rapidly at a global scale, altering natural sources of airborne bacterial biodiversity, as soils and native plants are replaced by pavement and managed yards. Urbanization homogenizes the biodiversity of larger organisms, but its effects are understudied with respect to microbes. This study uses categorical and gradient approaches to examine airborne bacterial communities in southwest Michigan (USA). Airborne communities carried a gut‐microbial signature and were equally homogenous above urban and rural sites, despite greater homogeneity of soil communities at urban sites. Ruminococcaceae were abundant, the source of which is likely wildlife. Beyond the gut‐microbial signature, there were underlying effects of land use, which were evident in the shared airborne taxa across urban and rural sites. Bacillales, Burkholderiales, Alteromonadales and Pseudomonadales were shared more across urban sites, while Xanthomonadales, which contains crop‐plant pathogens, were shared across rural agricultural sites. These results suggest that taxa which may distribute globally, coupled with localized sources, contribute to urban communities, while regional rural activities drive rural composition. We determined that soils were unlikely to contribute to broad distribution of some plant‐associated taxa, but may be a source for distribution of others.
Enfumafungin synthase represents a novel lineage of fungal triterpene cyclases
Authors: Kuhnert Eric , Li Yan , Lan Nan , Yue Qun , Chen Li , Cox Russell J. , An Zhiqiang , Yokoyama Kenichi , Bills Gerald F. 
Published: July 2018

SummaryEnfumafungin is a glycosylated fernene‐type triterpenoid produced by the fungus Hormonema carpetanum. Its potent antifungal activity, mediated by its interaction with β‐1,3‐glucan synthase and the fungal cell wall, has led to its development into the semi‐synthetic clinical candidate, ibrexafungerp (=SCY‐078). We report on the preliminary identification of the enfumafungin biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) based on genome sequencing, phylogenetic reconstruction, gene disruption, and cDNA sequencing studies. Enfumafungin synthase (efuA) consists of a terpene cyclase domain (TC) fused to a glycosyltransferase (GT) domain and thus represents a novel multifunctional enzyme. Moreover, the TC domain bears a phylogenetic relationship to bacterial squalene–hopene cyclases (SHC) and includes a typical DXDD motif within the active centre suggesting that efuA evolved from SHCs. Phylogenetic reconstruction of the GT domain indicated that this portion of the fusion gene originated from fungal sterol GTs. Eleven genes flanking efuA are putatively involved in the biosynthesis, regulation, transport and self‐resistance of enfumafungin and include an acetyltransferase, three P450 monooxygenases, a dehydrogenase, a desaturase and a reductase. A hypothetical scheme for enfumafungin assembly is proposed in which the E‐ring is oxidatively cleaved to yield the four‐ring system of enfumafungin. EfuA represents the first member of a widespread lineage of fungal SHCs.
Diel dynamics and coupling of heterotrophic prokaryotes and dissolved organic matter in epipelagic and mesopelagic waters of the central Red Sea
Authors: García Francisca C. , Calleja Maria L. , Al‐Otaibi Najwa , Røstad Anders , Morán Xosé Anxelu G. 
Published: July 2018

SummaryThe ecological status of an ecosystem can be approached by the taxa present but also by the size of individual organisms. In aquatic ecosystems, flow cytometry (FC) allows to study the individual size spectra and broad community composition through the evaluation of cytometric categories. The Red Sea represents a warm oligotrophic environment with a strong diel signal of vertically migrating mesopelagic fish, which feed at night at the surface and release dissolved organic carbon (DOC) at depth during day‐time. However, knowledge about how these conditions affect the dynamics of heterotrophic prokaryotes (HP) and their coupling with DOC is lacking. Here, we analyzed a high frequency sampling over 24 h to identify the community structure and compositional changes of HP in the epipelagic and mesopelagic layers of the central Red Sea. Our results show marked vertical and diel changes in HP communities in both layers. Specifically, the relative contribution of high nucleic acid content cells was remarkably linked to changes in DOC concentration and properties. The patterns observed were likely associated to the diel vertical migration of mesopelagic fish. These findings reveal that the structure of microbial communities in warm oligotrophic environments may be more dynamic than previously thought.
The Use of Malic and Acetic Acids in Washing Solution to ControlSalmonellaspp. on Chicken Breast
Authors: Olaimat Amin N. , Al‐Holy Murad A. , Abu Ghoush Mahmoud H. , Al‐Nabulsi Anas A. , Qatatsheh Ala A. , Shahbaz Hafiz M. , Osaili Tareq M. , Holley Richard A. 
Published: July 2018

AbstractSalmonellais a persisting contaminant in poultry products that may pose a potential risk to consumers. Thus, developing decontamination strategies to eliminate or reduce this pathogen in chicken is crucial. The objective of the current study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of malic acid (MA) and acetic acid (AA) or their combination againstSalmonellaon chicken breast at 4 °C for 10 days. The effect of storage temperature (4 and 21 °C) onSalmonellainactivation was also investigated for up to 21 days. Five serovars ofSalmonellawere inoculated in a model Mueller‐Hinton (MH) broth system to a level of about 7 log10CFU/mL and the broth was treated with 5 mg/mL of each of MA, AA or their combination. AA was more effective than MA in the model system at 21 °C, where it resulted in total elimination ofSalmonella, but MA was more effective in eliminatingSalmonellaat 4 °C. However, the combined MA and AA solutions were more effective than either MA or AA alone. When applying washing solutions containing 5 mg/mL of either of MA, AA, or their combination to chicken breast inoculated with about 5 log10CFU/g, the MA+AA washing solution was the most effective. It resulted in complete elimination ofSalmonellafrom chicken breast and rendered a significant reduction in mesophilic aerobic bacteria and lactic acid bacteria numbers.Practical ApplicationThis study indicates that the use of a washing solution containing MA and AA could improve the safety and extend the shelf life of raw chicken by substantially reducingSalmonellaand contaminating microflora on the product.
Volatile anaesthetics and postoperative delirium in older surgical patients—A secondary analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Kinjo Sakura , Lim Eunjung , Magsaysay Maria Victoria , Sands Laura P. , Leung Jacqueline M. ,   the Perioperative Medicine Research Group
Published: July 2018

BackgroundVolatile Anaesthetics (VAs) may be associated with postoperative delirium (POD). However, to date, the effects of VAs on POD are not completely understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence of POD in different VA groups.MethodsA secondary analysis was conducted using a database created from prospective cohort studies in patients who underwent elective major noncardiac surgery. Patients who received general anaesthesia with desflurane, isoflurane, or sevoflurane were included in the study. POD occurring on either of the first two postoperative days was measured using the Confusion Assessment Method.ResultsFive hundred and thirty‐two patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 73.5 ± 6.0 years (range, 65‐96 years). The overall incidence of POD on either postoperative day 1 or 2 was 41%. A higher incidence of POD was noted in the desflurane group compared with the isoflurane group (Odds Ratio = 3.35, 95% CI = 1.54‐7.28). The incidence of POD between the sevoflurane and isoflurane or desflurane group was not statistically significant.ConclusionEach VA may have different effects on postoperative cognition. Further studies using a prospective randomized approach will be necessary to discern whether anaesthetic type or management affects the occurrence of postoperative delirium.
DUOX1‐mediated hydrogen peroxide release regulates sodium transport in H441 bronchiolar epithelial cells
Authors: Mies Frédérique , Virreira Myrna , Goolaerts Arnaud , Djerbib Sami , Beauwens Renaud , Shlyonsky Vadim , Boom Alain 
Published: July 2018

AbstractAimDexamethasone has been shown to induce the formation of epithelial domes by bronchiolar H441 cells. It stimulates the expression of both amiloride inhibitable epithelial sodium channels (ENaC) and dual oxidase‐1 (DUOX1). We therefore ask the question whether DUOX1 expression and production of submillimolar amounts of H2O2 is instrumental for the sodium channel upregulation observed in H441 cells.MethodsIn vitro cell culture, nystatin‐perforated whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique, immunocytochemistry and RT‐PCR methods have been used.ResultsCells forming epithelial domes induced by dexamethasone (0.1 μmol L−1, 24 hours) and by 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxytidine (1 μmol L−1, 48 hours) expressed more DUOX1 protein compared with other cells in the monolayer. Dome formation could be inhibited by exogenous catalase in a concentration‐dependent manner and by the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenyliodonium, which suggested the involvement of H2O2. While single application of 0.2 mmol L−1 H2O2 induced transient dome formation, lower doses were ineffective and higher doses disrupted the cell monolayer. Hydrogen peroxide (0.1 mmol L−1) activated acutely amiloride‐sensitive whole‐cell currents from 3.91 ± 0.79 pA pF−1 to 4.76 ± 0.98 pA pF−1 in dome‐forming cells and had no effect in cells outside of domes. ENaC but not DUOX1 transcription was potentiated by catalase in the presence of dexamethasone, which suggested negative feedback of H2O2 on ENaC gene expression.ConclusionOur observations suggest that tonic production of H2O2 by DUOX1 participates in maintaining the level of vectorial sodium transport by lung epithelial cells. Moreover, the system appears to be well tuned as it would allow H2O2‐dependent innate immunity without inducing airway/alveolar sodium and fluid hyperabsorption.
Akt3 deletion in mice impairs spatial cognition and hippocampal CA1 long long‐term potentiation through downregulation of mTOR
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Shi Zhaochun , Wang Ya , Wang Ling , Zhang Baofeng , Chen Guiquan , Wan Qi , Chen Ling 
Published: July 2018

AbstractAimLoss‐of‐function mutation of Akt3 in humans has been associated with microcephaly and cognitive defects. Two Akt isoforms, Akt1 and Akt3, are highly expressed in hippocampal pyramidal cells. We explored the roles of Akt1 and Akt3, respectively, in spatial cognition and underlying mechanisms.MethodsWe used Akt1 knockout (Akt1‐KO) and Akt3 knockout (Akt3‐KO) mice to examine the influence of Akt1 and Akt3 deficiency on spatial memory, as well as induction and maintenance of hippocampal CA1 NMDA receptor‐dependent and protein synthesis‐dependent long‐term potentiation (LTP).ResultsLong‐term spatial memory was impaired in Akt3‐KO mice, but not in Akt1‐KO mice, as assessed by the Morris water maze task. Akt3‐KO and Akt1‐KO mice displayed reductions in brain size without concurrent changes in the number of pyramidal cells or basal properties of synaptic transmission. One‐train high‐frequency stimulation (HFS × 1) induced NMDA receptor‐dependent LTP in Akt3‐KO mice and Akt1‐KO mice. Four‐train HFS (HFS × 4) induced rapamycin‐sensitive long‐LTP in Akt1‐KO mice, but not Akt3‐KO mice. Basal level of mTOR phosphorylation was reduced in Akt3‐KO mice rather than Akt1‐KO mice. HFS × 4 induced an elevation of mTOR and p70S6K phosphorylation in Akt1‐KO mice, which led to enhanced 4EBP2 and eIF4E phosphorylation along with an increase in AMPA receptor protein. However, the same protocol of HFS × 4 failed to trigger the mTOR‐p70S6K signalling cascade or increase 4EBP2 and eIF4E phosphorylation in Akt3‐KO mice.ConclusionThe Akt3 deficiency via inactivation of mTOR suppresses HFS × 4‐induced mTOR‐p70S6K signalling to reduce phosphorylation of 4EBP and eIF4E, which impairs protein synthesis‐dependent long‐LTP and long‐term spatial cognitive function.
Discovering new areas of veterinary science through qualitative research interviews: introductory concepts for veterinarians
Authors: May CF 
Published: July 2018

BackgroundQualitative research is rarely used in the veterinary field. With the increasing complexity of the veterinary arena, qualitative research will become progressively relevant in pursuit of answers to new and equally complex research questions.AimThis paper introduces the fundamental concepts of qualitative research interviews, aiming to highlight their potential value to veterinary science, and to provide veterinarians with the foundations on which to build a greater understanding of this type of research.Implications for practiceThe ability to understand and critically appraise qualitative research can assist veterinarians in evidence‐based practice, wherein veterinary professionals use the best evidence possible to make treatment and management decisions. This will allow veterinarians to not only provide the best possible care to meet the needs of both clients and patients, but also to identify solutions to complex veterinary issues beyond the clinical setting.Implications for researchAn improved understanding of qualitative research within the veterinary profession can lead to its greater utilisation in veterinary research. This will provide the profession with insights into those topic areas that are hard to reach with more widely used quantitative research. More professional dialogue is required on research methods and methodologies to facilitate veterinarians’ evidence‐based practice; this is especially true for qualitative research.
Antifungal non‐invasive soak under general anaesthetic to treat fungal rhinitis in an Australian Quarter Horse gelding at pasture
Authors: Lean NE , Ahern BJ 
Published: July 2018

BackgroundMycotic rhinitis is a rare disease in horses, with few cases reported worldwide and none reported in Australia. Fungal infection of the upper respiratory tract can occur in all species, but its prevalence in horses is considerably lower than in canines or humans. The disease is linked to a variety of pathogens and the clinical signs are associated with subsequent upper respiratory tract damage.Case reportA 6‐year‐old Quarter Horse gelding in Queensland, Australia, was presented with chronic nasal discharge and dyspnoea following previous unsuccessful medical treatment of 9 months’ duration. Culture yielded a mixed growth of Cryptococcus and Rhodotorula, as well as secondary bacterial species. The horse was anaesthetised and positioned in sternal recumbency. The nasal passages and sinuses were bathed with fluconazole and dimethylsulfoxide for 1 h on two separate occasions 4 weeks apart. Systemic antimicrobials and corticosteroids were also administered for brief courses. Endoscopic examination 4 months after treatment demonstrated clinical resolution of the rhinitis with residual scar tissue. Owners reported resolution of clinical signs and following the treatment the gelding was able to perform athletically.Clinical relevanceMycotic rhinitis is an unusual disease that can be difficult to treat successfully. This report describes a technique for topical sinonasal bathing under general anaesthetic that was well tolerated, easy to perform and resulted in a successful clinical outcome.
Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology and airway hyper‐reactivity in clinically normal horses
Authors: Cullimore AM , Secombe CJ , Lester GD , Robertson ID 
Published: July 2018

ObjectiveTo characterise the relationship between bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cytology and pulmonary function testing with histamine bronchoprovocation (HBP) methods in a population of clinically normal horses.DesignCross‐sectional studyMethodsClinically normal adult horses (n = 33) underwent pulmonary function testing and HBP with a commercial flowmetric plethysmography system. BAL was performed 1–5 days later. Statistical analysis was used to assess associations between BALF cell concentration, relative inflammatory cell percentages and categorisation, and airway hyper‐reactivity (AHR).ResultsAHR (PC35 ≤ 8 mg/mL) was demonstrated in 17 (52%) of the horses. Using current definitions, BALF cytology was consistent with inflammatory airway disease in 14 (42%) of the horses and 7 of those demonstrated either mastocytic and/or eosinophilic responses. There was no correlation between total inflammatory cell counts or relative percentage and AHR. No statistical association was found between BALF inflammatory cell categories and AHR.ConclusionA direct association between cytological evidence of airway inflammation and AHR was not identified in this population of clinically normal horses. Determining the presence and measuring inflammatory cell mediators in BALF may more accurately reflect AHR. In addition, normal values for cell proportions in BALF may vary between different populations of horses and more appropriate regional reference ranges should be established.
Retrospective evaluation of the efficacy of minimally invasive, fluoroscopic‐assisted reduction and stabilisation of unicondylar humeral fractures
Authors: Au Yong JA , Lewis DD , Evans RB , Kim SE , Pozzi A 
Published: July 2018

ObjectiveThis study evaluated the proficiency in executing closed, fluoroscopic‐assisted reduction of unicondylar humeral fractures. The following were hypothesised: experienced surgeons would be highly successful in performing closed reduction; body weight, time to surgery and surgeon experience would influence the reduction method; and the reduction method would not affect technical aspects of the repair.MethodsAll unicondylar humeral fractures stabilised between January 2007 and January 2017 were reviewed. Signalment and time to surgery, experience of the attending surgeon, and the initial and definitive reduction methods were recorded. Initial and subsequent postoperative radiographs were used to assess fracture reduction, implant placement and complications. Univariate polychotomous logistic regressions, Fisher’s exact test, Kruskal‐Wallis rank sums non‐parametric test or equivalence tests were used to compare parameters evaluated based on the approach employed (P < 0.05 significant).ResultsA total of 36 dogs with 37 fractures were identified (median weight: 5.4 kg; median time to surgery: 3 days). Of these, 11 of 15 attempted closed reductions were successful. Successful closed reductions had shorter times to surgery than limited open or open reductions (P=0.009). Age, weight and surgeon experience did not influence the definitive reduction method. Technical aspects of reduction and stabilisation were similar among the reduction methods. Surgery times were shorter for closed reductions (P=0.034). Of the fractures, 75% healed without complications and 85% had excellent long‐term function.ConclusionThe results suggested that closed, fluoroscopic‐assisted reduction is a proficient (73% successful) and efficient (shorter surgery times with comparable technical results compared with other limited open and open reduction) means of stabilising acute unicondylar humeral fractures.
Mothers of preterm infants’ experiences of breastfeeding support in the first 12 months after birth: A qualitative study
Authors: Ericson Jenny , Palmér Lina 
Published: July 2018

AbstractBackgroundBreastfeeding support is important for breastfeeding mothers; however, it is less clear how mothers of preterm infants (< 37 gestational weeks) experience breastfeeding support during the first year. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe how mothers of preterm infants in Sweden experience breastfeeding support during the first 12 months after birth.MethodsThis qualitative study used data from 151 mothers from questionnaires with open‐ended questions and telephone interviews. The data were analyzed using an inductive thematic network analysis with a hermeneutical approach.ResultsThe results exposed two organizing themes and one global theme. In the organizing theme “genuine support strengthens,” the mothers described how they were strengthened by being listened to and met with respect, understanding, and knowledge. The support was individually adapted and included both practical and emotional support. In the organizing theme “inadequate support diminishes,” the mothers described how health professionals who were controlling and intrusive diminished them and how the support they needed was not provided or was inappropriate. Thus, the global theme “being thrown into a lottery—dependent on the health professional who provided breastfeeding support” emerged, meaning that the support received was random in terms of knowledge and support style, depending on the individual health professionals who were available.ConclusionBreastfeeding support to mothers of preterm infants was highly variable, either constructive or destructive depending on who provided support. This finding clearly shows major challenges for health care, which should make breastfeeding support more person‐centered, equal, and supportive in accordance with individual needs.