bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New Cyt-like δ-endotoxins from Dickeya dadantii: structure and aphicidal activity
Authors: Loth Karine , Costechareyre Denis , Effantin Géraldine , Rahbé Yvan , Condemine Guy , Landon Céline , da Silva Pedro 
Published: March 2015

AbstractIn the track of new biopesticides, four genes namelycytA,cytB,cytCandcytDencoding proteins homologous toBacillus thuringiensis(Bt) Cyt toxins have been identified in the plant pathogenic bacteriaDickeya dadantiigenome. Here we show that three Cyt-like δ-endotoxins fromD. dadantii(CytA, CytB and CytC) are toxic to the pathogen of the pea aphidAcyrthosiphon pisumin terms of both mortality and growth rate. The phylogenetic analysis of the comprehensive set of Cyt toxins available in genomic databases shows that the whole family is of limited taxonomic occurrence, though in quite diverse microbial taxa. From a structure-function perspective the 3D structure of CytC and its backbone dynamics in solution have been determined by NMR. CytC adopts a cytolysin fold, structurally classified as a Cyt2-like protein. Moreover, the identification of a putative lipid binding pocket in CytC structure, which has been probably maintained in most members of the Cyt-toxin family, could support the importance of this lipid binding cavity for the mechanism of action of the whole family. This integrative approach provided significant insights into the evolutionary and functional history ofD. dadantiiCyt toxins, which appears to be interesting leads for biopesticides.
Combination of angiotensin-(1–7) with perindopril is better than single therapy in ameliorating diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hao Panpan , Yang Jianmin , Liu Yanping , Zhang Mingxiang , Zhang Kai , Gao Fei , Chen Yuguo , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Yun 
Published: March 2015

AbstractWe recently found that overexpression of angiotensin (Ang)-converting enzyme 2, which metabolizes Ang-II to Ang-(1–7) and Ang-I to Ang-(1–9), may improve left ventricular remodeling in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Here we aimed to test whether chronic infusion of Ang-(1–7) can dose-dependently ameliorate left ventricular remodeling and function in a rat model of diabetic cardiomyopathy and whether the combination of Ang-(1–7) and Ang-converting enzyme inhibition may be superior to single therapy. Our results showed that Ang-(1–7) treatment dose-dependently ameliorated left ventricular remodeling and dysfunction in diabetic rats by attenuating myocardial fibrosis, myocardial hypertrophy and myocyte apoptosis via both the Mas receptor and angiotensin II type 2 receptor. Furthermore, combining Ang-(1–7) with perindopril provided additional cardioprotection relative to single therapy. Ang-(1–7) administration provides a novel and promising approach for treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Dietary legume consumption reduces risk of colorectal cancer: evidence from a meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Zhu Beibei , Sun Yu , Qi Lu , Zhong Rong , Miao Xiaoping 
Published: March 2015

AbstractPrevious epidemiological studies on the relation between dietary legume consumption and risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) remain controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis based on prospective cohort studies to investigate the association between dietary legume consumption and risk of CRC. Fourteen cohort studies were finally included, containing a total of 1903459 participants and 12261 cases who contributed 11628960 person-years. We found that higher legume consumption was associated with a decreased risk of CRC (RR, relative risk = 0.91; 95% CI, confidence interval = 0.84–0.98). Subgroup analyses suggested that higher legume consumption was inversely associated with CRC risk in Asian (RR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.74–0.91) and soybean intake was associated with a decreased risk of CRC (RR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.73–0.99). Findings from our meta-analysis supported an association between higher intake of legume and a reduced risk of CRC. Further studies controlled for appropriate confounders are warranted to validate the associations.
MiR-181a regulates lipid metabolism via IDH1
Authors: Chu Bo , Wu Ting , Miao Lin , Mei Yide , Wu Mian 
Published: March 2015

AbstractLipid metabolism is important for cellular energy homeostasis. Excessive cellular lipid accumulation is associated with various human diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease or even cancer. It has been recognized that miR-181a is an important modulator in regulating T lymphocyte differentiation, vascular development and cerebellar neurodegeneration. Here we reports a novel function of miR-181a in the regulation of lipid metabolism. MiR-181a is able to target isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), a metabolic enzyme in TCA cycle. Via targeting IDH1, miR-181a decreases expression of genes involved in lipid synthesis and increases expression of genes involved in β-oxidation, thereafter inhibiting lipid accumulation. MiR-181a transgenic mice show a lower body weight as compared with their wild-type littermates and moreover, miR-181a transgenic mice exhibit less lipid accumulation. Collectively, these findings uncover a novel miR-181a-IDH1 axis that has an important role in regulating lipid metabolism and implicate miR-181a as a potential therapeutic target for lipid metabolism disorders.
Diagnostic accuracy of PLA2R autoantibodies and glomerular staining for the differentiation of idiopathic and secondary membranous nephropathy: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Huanzi , Zhang Huhai , He Yani 
Published: March 2015

AbstractThe diagnostic performance of M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) autoantibodies and PLA2R glomerular staining in discriminating between idiopathic membranous nephropathy (iMN) and secondary membranous nephropathy (sMN) has not been fully evaluated. We conducted an updated meta-analysis to investigate the accuracy and clinical value of serological anti-PLA2R test and histological PLA2R staining for differentiation iMN from sMN. A total of 19 studies involving 1160 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The overall sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of serum anti-PLA2R were 0.68 (95% CI, 0.61–074), 0.97 (95% CI, 0.85–1.00), 73.75 (95% CI, 12.56–432.96) and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.78–0.85), respectively, with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 86.42%). Subgroup analyses revealed the study design, publication type, study origin, assay method might account for the heterogeneity. Additionally, the overall sensitivity, specificity, DOR and AUROC of glomerular PLA2R staining were 0.78 (95% CI, 0.72–0.83), 0.91 (95% CI, 0.75–0.97), 34.70 (95% CI, 9.93–121.30) and 0.84 (95% CI, 0.81–0.87), respectively, without heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Serological anti-PLA2R testing has diagnostic value, but it must be interpreted in context with patient clinical characteristics and histological PLA2R staining in seronegative patients is recommended.
The Plasmodium vivax in China: decreased in local cases but increased imported cases from Southeast Asia and Africa
Authors: Feng Jun , Xiao Huihui , Zhang Li , Yan He , Feng Xinyu , Fang Wen , Xia Zhigui 
Published: March 2015

AbstractCurrently the local P. vivax was sharply decreased while the imported vivax malaria increased in China. Despite Southeast Asia was still the main import source of vivax malaria, the trend of Africa become serious, especially for west and central Africa. Herein we have clarified the trend of P. vivax in China from 2004–2012 and made some analysis for the differences of imported vivax back from different regions. There are significantly different of P. vivax between Southeast Asia and Africa, also the difference was observed for different regions in Africa. Additionally, we have explored the possibility for the difference of the P. vivax between migrant workers back from west and central Africa and the prevalence of local population. This reminds us that surveillance and training should be strengthened by medical staffs on the imported P. vivax cases reported especially from west and central Africa, in order to reduce the risk of malaria reintroduction and, specific tools should be developed, as well as the epidemiological study to avoid the misdiagnosis such as P. ovale and P. vivax.
Colour image steganography method based on sparse representation
Authors: Ahani Soodeh , Ghaemmaghami Shahrokh 
Published: March 2015

The authors address the use of sparse representation to securely hide a message within non‐overlapping blocks of a given colour image in the wavelet domain. All four sub‐images of the two‐dimensional wavelet transform of two colour bands are used for data embedding without affecting the image perceptibility. Bit error rate of hidden data extraction is reduced to zero by introducing a novel refinement procedure in the proposed algorithm. The refinement procedure introduced solves the hidden bit extraction errors caused by the rounding process, the overflows and the nature of approximation in sparse decomposition. Capacity of the proposed method is calculated using necessary conditions for uniqueness of the sparse representations and validated by means of experimental results. The authors experimental results show that the embedded data are invisible perceptually. The average peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) value of the introduced method is about 40 and 11 dB higher than the average PSNR values of the MPSteg‐colour method and the wavelet domain 2‐LSB embedding method, respectively. The security of the proposed method is also evaluated comparatively, using five well‐known steganalysers, which confirms superior performance of the new method comparing with the MPSteg‐colour method and the wavelet domain 2‐LSB embedding method.
In Vitro Reconstitution of Metabolic Pathways: Insights into Nature’s Chemical Logic
Authors: Khosla Chaitan , Lowry Brian , Walsh Christopher 
Published: March 2015

In vitro analysis of metabolic pathways is becoming a powerful method for gaining a deeper understanding of nature’s core biochemical transformations. Through the astounding advances in biotechnology, the purification of the enzymatic components of a given metabolic pathway is becoming a tractable problem; such in vitro studies permit scientists to capture the fine details of the mechanisms, kinetics, and identities of organic products of enzymatic reactions. In this review, we describe eleven metabolic pathways that have been the subject of recently reported in vitro reconstitution studies. In addition, we have selected and analyzed a subset of four case studies within these eleven examples that exemplify the remarkable organic chemistry that occurs within biological systems. These examples serves as tangible reminders that nature’s biochemical routes obey the fundamental principles of organic chemistry, as their chemical mechanisms are reminiscent of those occurring in conventional synthetic organic routes. The illustrations of biosynthetic chemistry presented in this review might inspire the development of biomimetic chemistries involving abiotic chemical techniques.1	Introduction2	Bacterial Metabolites2.1	Fatty Acids2.2	Farnesene2.3	O-Polysaccharides3	Plant Metabolites3.1	Dhurrin3.2	Camalexin4	Polyketides and Nonribosomal Peptides4.1	Aromatic Polyketides4.1.1	Actinorhodin-Derived Polyketides4.1.2	Enterocin4.2	Fungal Polyketides4.2.1	Norsolorinic Acid4.2.2	Dihydromonacolin L4.3	Assembly Line Polyketides and Nonribosomal Peptides4.3.1	6-Deoxyerythronolide B4.3.2	Asperlicin5	Discussion of Chemical Insights5.1	Allylic Carbocation Chemistry Drives Farnesene Synthesis5.2	Multifunctional Oxidation Chemistry of Cytochrome P450 Enzymes5.3	A Remarkable Favorskiiase Enzyme Within Enterocin Biosynthesis5.4	Diels–Alder Chemistry Appears in Biology6	Concluding Remarks
Nucleation of metastable aragonite CaCO
3
in seawater
Authors: Sun Wenhao , Jayaraman Saivenkataraman , Chen Wei , Persson Kristin A. , Ceder Gerbrand 
Published: March 2015

Significance
Crystallization from solution is a materials synthesis process common both in nature and in the laboratory. Unlike conventional high-temperature solid-state synthesis, solution-based syntheses often yield metastable phases, contrary to expectations from equilibrium thermodynamics. Using a recently developed ab initio scheme to calculate the surface energy of a critical nucleus in equilibrium with the aqueous environment, we present a framework to compare relative nucleation rates between competing polymorphs as a function of solution chemistry. We apply this approach to demonstrate how seawater chemistry can preferentially bias nucleation toward the metastable aragonite phase of calcium carbonate, rather than the stable phase calcite––which is of great relevance to biomineralization, carbon sequestration, paleogeochemistry, and the vulnerability of marine life to ocean acidification.
Linezolid resistance in clinical isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis from German hospitals and characterization of two cfr-carrying plasmids
Authors: Bender Jennifer , Strommenger Birgit , Steglich Matthias , Zimmermann Ortrud , Fenner Ines , Lensing Carmen , Dagwadordsch Urantschimeg , Kekulé Alexander S. , Werner Guido , Layer Franziska 
Published: March 2015

Abstract

Objectives
This study was a detailed investigation of Staphylococcus epidermidis clinical isolates exhibiting linezolid resistance.

Methods
Thirty-six linezolid-resistant S. epidermidis from eight German hospitals, including isolates from suspected hospital-associated outbreaks between January 2012 and April 2013, were analysed with respect to their antimicrobial susceptibility and the presence of cfr and/or mutations in the 23S rRNA, rplC, rplD and rplV genes. Relatedness of isolates was estimated by MLST and SmaI macrorestriction analysis. Characterization of cfr plasmids was carried out by means of Illumina sequencing.

Results
The MICs of linezolid varied substantially between the isolates. No apparent correlation was detected between the level of resistance, the presence of cfr and ribosomal target site mutations. S. epidermidis isolates from two hospitals were confirmed as clonally related, indicating the spread of the respective clone over a period of 1 year. Next-generation sequencing revealed two different categories of cfr-expressing plasmids, both of them varying in genetic arrangement and composition from previously published cfr plasmids: p12-00322-like plasmids showed incorporation of cfr into a pGO1-like backbone and displayed capabilities for intra- and inter-species conjugational transfer.

Conclusions
To date, linezolid-resistant S. epidermidis have rarely been isolated from human clinical sources in Germany. Here, we describe the emergence and outbreaks of these strains. We detected previously described and novel point mutations in the 23S ribosomal genes. The cfr gene was only present in six isolates. However, this is the first known description of cfr incorporation into conjugative vectors; under selective pressure, these vectors could give reasonable cause for concern.
The period-ratio and mass-ratio correlation in extra-solar multiple planetary systems
Authors: Jiang Ing-Guey , Yeh Li-Chin , Hung Wen-Liang 
Published: March 2015

Abstract
Employing the data from orbital periods and masses of extra-solar planets in 166 multiple planetary systems, the period ratio and mass ratio of adjacent planet pairs are studied. The correlation between the period ratio and mass ratio is confirmed, with a correlation coefficient of 0.5303 with a 99 per cent confidence interval (0.3807, 0.6528). A comparison with the distribution of synthetic samples from a Monte Carlo simulation reveals the imprint of planet–planet interactions on the formation of adjacent planet pairs in multiple planetary systems.
Gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery in the treatment of brainstem metastases: The MD Anderson experience
Authors: Voong Khinh Ranh , Farnia Benjamin , Wang Qianghu , Luo Dershan , McAleer Mary F. , Rao Ganesh , Guha-Thakurta Nandita , Likhacheva Anna , Ghia Amol J. , Brown Paul D. , Li Jing 
Published: March 2015

Abstract

Background
Brainstem metastases (BSMs) represent a significant treatment challenge. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is often used to treat BSM. We report our experience in the treatment of BSM with Gamma Knife SRS (GK_SRS).

Methods
The records of 1962 patients with brain metastases treated with GK_SRS between 2009 and 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Seventy-four patients with 77 BSMs and follow-up brain imaging were identified. Local control (LC), overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and toxicity were assessed.

Results
Median follow-up was 5.5 months (range, 0.2–48.5 months). Median tumor volume was 0.13 cm3 (range, 0.003–5.58 cm3). Median treatment dose was 16 Gy (range, 10–20 Gy) prescribed to 50% isodose line (range, 40%–86%). Crude LC was 94% (72/77). Kaplan-Meier estimate of median OS was 8.5 months (95% CI, 5.6–9.4 months). Symptomatic lesions and larger lesions, especially size ≥2 cm3, were associated with worse LC (HR = 8.70, P = .05; HR = 14.55, P = .02; HR = 62.81, P &lt; .001) and worse OS (HR = 2.00, P = .02; HR = 2.14, P = .03; HR = 2.81, P = .008). Thirty-six percent of BSMs were symptomatic, of which 36% (10/28) resolved after SRS and 50% (14/28) had stable or improved symptoms. Actuarial median PFS was 3.9 months (95% CI, 2.7–4.9 months). Midbrain location was significant for worse PFS (HR = 2.29, P = .03). Toxicity was low (8%, 6/74), with size and midbrain location associated with increased toxicity (HR 1.57, P = .05; HR = 5.25, P = .045).

Conclusions
GK_SRS is associated with high LC (94%) and low toxicity (8%) for BSMs. Presence of symptoms or lesion size ≥ 2 cm3 was predictive of worse LC and OS.
Three R2R3-MYB Transcription Factors Regulate Distinct Floral Pigmentation Patterning in Phalaenopsis spp.
Authors: Hsu Chia-Chi , Chen You-Yi , Tsai Wen-Chieh , Chen Wen-Huei , Chen Hong-Hwa 
Published: March 2015

Abstract
Orchidaceae are well known for their fascinating floral morphologic features, specialized pollination, and distinctive ecological strategies. With their long-lasting flowers of various colors and pigmentation patterning, Phalaenopsis spp. have become important ornamental plants worldwide. In this study, we identified three R2R3-MYB transcription factors PeMYB2, PeMYB11, and PeMYB12. Their expression profiles were concomitant with red color formation in Phalaenopsis spp. flowers. Transient assay of overexpression of three PeMYBs verified that PeMYB2 resulted in anthocyanin accumulation, and these PeMYBs could activate the expression of three downstream structural genes Phalaenopsis spp. Flavanone 3-hydroxylase5, Phalaenopsis spp. Dihydroflavonol 4-reductase1, and Phalaenopsis spp. Anthocyanidin synthase3. In addition, these three PeMYBs participated in the distinct pigmentation patterning in a single flower, which was revealed by virus-induced gene silencing. In the sepals/petals, silencing of PeMYB2, PeMYB11, and PeMYB12 resulted in the loss of the full-red pigmentation, red spots, and venation patterns, respectively. Moreover, different pigmentation patterning was regulated by PeMYBs in the sepals/petals and lip. PeMYB11 was responsive to the red spots in the callus of the lip, and PeMYB12 participated in the full pigmentation in the central lobe of the lip. The differential pigmentation patterning was validated by RNA in situ hybridization. Additional assessment was performed in six Phalaenopsis spp. cultivars with different color patterns. The combined expression of these three PeMYBs in different ratios leads to a wealth of complicated floral pigmentation patterning in Phalaenopsis spp.
Shaping destination image and identity: insights for Arab tourism at the Gold Coast, Australia
Authors: Abodeeb Jamila , Wilson Erica , Moyle Brent 
Published: March 2015

Purpose
– This paper aims to explore how destination image can be shaped, created and crafted, from an induced-source, supply-side perspective to better cater to Arab visitors, drawing on empirical research conducted on the Gold Coast, Australia.

Design/methodology/approach
– Two sequential stages of research were implemented. The first stage conducted an analysis of websites to compare and contrast the image of the Gold Coast projected with the image perceived by Arab visitors. The second stage conducted semi-structured interviews with professionals from two destination marketing organisations (DMOs) directly responsible for marketing the Gold Coast to Arab visitors.

Findings
– Key findings indicate that the DMOs sought to portray a strong destination brand to Arab visitors, specifically around its current branding of “Gold Coast: Famous for Fun”. The Gold Coast has highly evolved strategies to target Arab visitors, including productive working relationships between DMOs and strategic partnerships with tourism organisations in the Arab world. However, analysis of websites revealed some incongruence between core attractions. Arab websites emphasise the beach more than do the Australian, state and local DMOs, and entertainment did not rate as highly as the need for beaches, shopping and accommodation.

Research limitations/implications
– Importantly, this research highlights the need for DMOs to clearly understand the needs of Arab visitors and integrating such information into targeted marketing campaigns aligned with the core destination brand.

Originality/value
– The contribution of this research is in providing a more nuanced understanding of the importance of using culture as a key segmentation tool not only to help attract more tourists but to assist DMOs to understand the special needs of various cultures in the destination.
Dry sliding friction and wear behavior of self-lubricating wollastonite filled polycarbonate composites
Authors: Akinci Akin 
Published: March 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the friction and wear performance of pure polycarbonate (PC) and 5-30 per cent wollastonite-filled (by weight) PC were comparatively evaluated under dry sliding conditions. Wear tests were carried out at room temperature under the loads of 5-20 N and at the sliding speeds of 0.5-1.5 m/s.

Design/methodology/approach
– The microstructures of the wollastonite, pure PC and composites were examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The friction and wear tests were realized using a pin-on-disk arrangement against the hardened AISI 4140 steel.

Findings
– The result of this study indicated that the coefficients of friction wear rate of the materials were significantly influenced by an increase in wollastonite content. The friction coefficient of the PC was getting decreased from 0.457 to 0.198 with an increase in wollastonite content, depending on applied loads and sliding speeds. On the other hand, the results showed that the wear rates of pure PC and wollastonite-filled PCs decreased with an increase in loads. The wear rate of the PC decreased from 1.2 × 10−6 to 8.7 × 10−6 mm3/m with an increase in wollastonite content, depending on applied loads.

Originality/value
– There are many reports which deal with the friction and wear performance of the polymers and polymer composites. However, the effect of wollastonite effect on tribological performance of PC has up to now not been extensively researched.