bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal separation in rodents: a journey from gut to brain and nutritional perspectives
Authors: Rincel Marion , Darnaudéry Muriel
Published: June 2019

The developmental period constitutes a critical window of sensitivity to stress. Indeed, early-life adversity increases the risk to develop psychiatric diseases, but also gastrointestinal disorders such as the irritable bowel syndrome at adulthood. In the past decade, there has been huge interest in the gut–brain axis, especially as regards stress-related emotional behaviours. Animal models of early-life adversity, in particular, maternal separation (MS) in rodents, demonstrate lasting deleterious effects on both the gut and the brain. Here, we review the effects of MS on both systems with a focus on stress-related behaviours. In addition, we discuss more recent findings showing the impact of gut-directed interventions, including nutrition with pre- and probiotics, illustrating the role played by gut microbiota in mediating the long-term effects of MS. Overall, preclinical studies suggest that nutritional approaches with pro- and prebiotics may constitute safe and efficient strategies to attenuate the effects of early-life stress on the gut–brain axis. Further research is required to understand the complex mechanisms underlying gut–brain interaction dysfunctions after early-life stress as well as to determine the beneficial impact of gut-directed strategies in a context of early-life adversity in human subjects.
TRUNCATED SUM OF SQUARES ESTIMATION OF FRACTIONAL TIME SERIES MODELS WITH DETERMINISTIC TRENDS
Authors: Hualde Javier , Nielsen Morten Ørregaard
Published: July 2019

We consider truncated (or conditional) sum of squares estimation of a parametric model composed of a fractional time series and an additive generalized polynomial trend. Both the memory parameter, which characterizes the behavior of the stochastic component of the model, and the exponent parameter, which drives the shape of the deterministic component, are considered not only unknown real numbers but also lying in arbitrarily large (but finite) intervals. Thus, our model captures different forms of nonstationarity and noninvertibility. As in related settings, the proof of consistency (which is a prerequisite for proving asymptotic normality) is challenging due to nonuniform convergence of the objective function over a large admissible parameter space, but, in addition, our framework is substantially more involved due to the competition between stochastic and deterministic components. We establish consistency and asymptotic normality under quite general circumstances, finding that results differ crucially depending on the relative strength of the deterministic and stochastic components. Finite-sample properties are illustrated by means of a Monte Carlo experiment.
Specific activation of thehb4gene in theXenopusoocyte through a Nobox-binding element located at the proximal promoter sequence
Authors: Nakamigawa Masanori , Kondo Takumi , Maéno Mitsugu
Published: June 2019

We isolated and characterizedXenopus tropicalis hb4flanking DNA and showed that the −3076/+29 sequence was able to drive stage-specific transcription in the developmental process. Transgenic reporter analysis indicated that green fluorescent protein was expressed in the ovaries of female frogs at 3 months of age and in both the ovaries and testis of frogs at 6 months of age. A series of experiments with deletion of the flanking sequence and a subsequent luciferase reporter assay revealed that there were two positive regulatory regions and that the most proximal sequence of the promoter region had a certain level of transcriptional activity in oocytes. Subsequently, we showed that a conserved sequence containing Nobox-binding element (NBE) was essential for transcriptional activation and that Nobox expressed in the ovary had a crucial role inhb4transcription through the NBE sequence.
TAX POLICY AND FOOD SECURITY: A DYNAMIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Pawan , Saha Anuradha
Published: June 2019

We investigate the sectoral and the distributional effects of a food subsidy program, where food consumption in the economy is subsidized by taxing the manufacturing good producers. In a two-agent model comprising of farmer and industrialist households, agents consume food to accumulate health. Simulations indicate that while the subsidy program increases food output and agents’ health both in the short run and the long run, manufacturing output and aggregate real GDP appear to fall in the short run and increase only in the long run. The program does not make both agents better off and exhibits social welfare gains for a limited range of subsidies.
Defining the gift
Authors: Elder-Vass Dave
Published: July 2019

Economics has tended to neglect giving, and thus both its important contemporary economic role and its potential contribution to alternative, non-market systems. To remedy this, it will need to draw on the broad debates on the nature of the gift that have developed in and across the other social sciences. This paper addresses several of these by asking how we should define the termsgiftandgiving. It rejects definitional associations of giving with obligation, reciprocity and the development of social relationships. Such definitions exclude many phenomena commonly understood as giving and underpin misguided attempts to analyse gifts in contemporary late-modern societies in terms derived from anthropological discussions of very different societies. Instead, the paper develops a definition of the gift based on contemporary giving institutions. A more open, contemporary definition of the gift helps to sensitise us to the continuing importance of gift institutions in social and economic life.
Modeling Ultralow Velocity Zones as a Thin Chemically Distinct Dense Layer at the Core‐Mantle Boundary
Authors: Hernlund John William , Bonati Irene
Published: July 2019

Seismically detected ultralow velocity zones (ULVZs) at the the core‐mantle boundary reflect the dynamical state and geological evolution of the silicate‐metal frontier of Earth's deep interior. However, modeling the dynamical context of ULVZs is hampered by challenges, such as the necessity of fine‐scale resolution and the accurate treatment of large viscosity contrasts. Here we extend the treatment of ULVZs using a lubrication theory approach and apply it to numerical and analytical models relevant for mantle convection in the core‐mantle boundary region. A generic model of a thin and dense low‐viscosity ULVZ layer embedded between an overlying convecting viscous mantle and an underlying inviscid core can explain several features that are consistent with seismic inferences, such as the absence of ULVZs in some regions and a tabular shape where they are concentrated. The model explains how the topography of a ULVZ layer tends to saturate and flatten as it becomes thicker, due to a nonlinear feedback between viscous aggregation beneath upwelling mantle currents and gravitational spreading/relaxation. Implementation of the ULVZ equation in thermal convection models indicates that ULVZs are preferentially gathered beneath long‐lived plumes and may not exist beneath newly formed plume roots where there is no source of layer material. The presence/absence of ULVZs and their detailed shapes may provide important insights into the dynamical state and convective instability of the lowermost mantle thermal boundary layer.
Interannual Variability in the Absorption and Fluorescence Characteristics of Dissolved Organic Matter in the Canada Basin Polar Mixed Waters
Authors: Dainard P. G. , Guéguen C. , Yamamoto‐Kawai M. , Williams W. J. , Hutchings J. K.
Published: June 2019

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) absorption and fluorescence properties were investigated for seawater samples collected from the polar mixed layer (0–30 m) of the Canada Basin in 2010–2012. Sea ice concentration as well as fractions of meteoric and sea ice meltwater (fMW and fSIM) calculated from oxygen isotope ratio (δ18O) were applied to assess the importance of discrete freshwater inputs to the distribution of DOM. Parallel factor analysis identified four humic‐like (C1‐2 and C4‐C5) and one protein‐like (C3) fluorescent components in 380 excitation‐emission matrix spectra. Surprisingly, despite different sea ice cover and biological regimes, DOM composition was largely homogeneous spanning these annual surveys. A strong and reoccurring coastal influence on DOM absorption and humic‐like DOM was observed each year and was particularly pronounced during the summer 2011 survey. Enrichment of DOM humic signal (C1, C2, and C4) in brine‐rich (fSIM < 0) waters relative to sea ice melt‐dominated waters (fSIM > 0; p < 0.05) was found during 2011 and 2012 in the offshore region (>76°N) where coastal influences were minimal (fMW < 0.1). Similar fSIM < 0 were found for 2011 and 2012, either when considering the Canada Basin as a whole or the offshore region (>76°N) exclusively, which could imply that brine formation influenced humic signals in polar mixed layer seawater. Findings herein highlight that future projected changes in freshwater sources and brine production in the Canada Basin will likely implicate the distribution and composition of DOM.
Sensitivity of Gravity‐Wave Momentum Flux to Moisture in the Mei‐Yu Front Systems
Authors: Wang Yuan , Zhang Lifeng , Zhang Yun , Peng Jun , Yu Shiwang
Published: July 2019

The sensitivity of gravity‐wave momentum flux in the Mei‐Yu front systems to moisture is investigated via idealized simulations with various degrees of initial moisture content. Gravity waves generated in moist experiments result in net northward momentum flux and drag forcing, and the drag is indistinctive in the lower stratosphere near the tropopause but strengthens with height. As moisture content increases, the meridional flux intensifies remarkably in both physical and spectral space and extends to smaller spatiotemporal scales. However, the change of moisture has little effect on the selectivity of the strongest flux to relatively large scales and specific phase speeds. At slow phase speeds, the fanlike waves excited by the front are effectively coupled with the convective waves excited by the prefrontal moist convection, which leads to the weakening of the coupled wave flux.
Pedersen Ionic Contribution in Different Time Scales
Authors: Zossi Bruno S. , Fagre Mariano , Elias Ana G.
Published: July 2019

Pedersen conductivity is one of the main parameters in atmospheric electrodynamics, magnetosphere‐ionosphere‐thermosphere coupling, and several other geophysical processes. It is determined by the collision frequency between charged and neutral components and the Earth's magnetic field intensity through the gyrofrequency. This work analyzes the contribution of different ionic species to the variability of Pedersen conductance in time scales from hours to years within the period 1964–2008 based on the results of various atmospheric and ionospheric models. The main results are (1) there is a positive correlation between O+ density and Pedersen conductance, (2) Pedersen conductance of F layer has a larger increase with the solar activity than that of E layer, (3) Pedersen conductance has a long‐term trend that is determined by Earth's magnetic field intensity and electron density, and (4) at midlatitudes trends are mainly governed by the Earth's magnetic field and modulated by the electron density, while at high latitudes both are important.
Solar Cell Degradation Due to Proton Belt Enhancements During Electric Orbit Raising to GEO
Authors: Lozinski Alexander R. , Horne Richard B. , Glauert Sarah A. , Del Zanna Giulio , Heynderickx Daniel , Evans Hugh D. R.
Published: June 2019

The recent introduction of all‐electric propulsion on geosynchronous satellites enables lower‐cost access to space by replacing chemical propellant. However, the time period required to initially raise the satellite to geostationary orbit (GEO) is around 200 days. During this time the satellite can be exposed to dynamic increases in trapped flux, which are challenging to model. To understand the potential penalty of this new technique in terms of radiation exposure, the influence of several key parameters on solar cell degradation during the electric orbit raising period has been investigated. This is achieved by calculating the accumulation of nonionizing dose through time for a range of approaches. We demonstrate the changes in degradation caused by launching during a long‐lived (hundreds of days) enhancement in megaelectron volt trapped proton flux for three different electric orbit raising scenarios and three different thicknesses of coverglass. Results show that launching in an active environment can increase solar cell degradation due to trapped protons by ∼5% before start of service compared with a quiet environment. The crucial energy range for such enhancements in proton flux is 3–10 MeV (depending on shielding). Further changes of a few percent can occur between different trajectories, or when a 50‐μm change in coverglass thickness is applied.
ER complex proteins are required for rhodopsin biosynthesis and photoreceptor survival in Drosophila and mice
Authors: Xiong Liangyao , Zhang Lin , Yang Yeming , Li Na , Lai Wenjia , Wang Fengchao , Zhu Xianjun , Wang Tao
Published: July 2019

Defective rhodopsin homeostasis is one of the major causes of retinal degeneration, including the disease Retinitis pigmentosa. To identify cellular factors required for the biosynthesis of rhodopsin, we performed a genome-wide genetic screen in Drosophila for mutants with reduced levels of rhodopsin. We isolated loss-of-function alleles in endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex 3 (emc3), emc5, and emc6, each of which exhibited defective phototransduction and photoreceptor cell degeneration. EMC3, EMC5, and EMC6 were essential for rhodopsin synthesis independent of the ER associated degradation (ERAD) pathway, which eliminates misfolded proteins. We generated null mutations for all EMC subunits, and further demonstrated that different EMC subunits play roles in different cellular functions. Conditional knockout of the Emc3 gene in mice led to mislocalization of rhodopsin protein and death of cone and rod photoreceptor cells. These data indicate conserved roles for EMC subunits in maintaining rhodopsin homeostasis and photoreceptor function, and suggest that retinal degeneration may also be caused by defects in early biosynthesis of rhodopsin.
Nrf2 drives oxidative stress-induced autophagy in nucleus pulposus cells via a Keap1/Nrf2/p62 feedback loop to protect intervertebral disc from degeneration
Authors: Tang Zehan , Hu Bo , Zang Fazhi , Wang Jianxi , Zhang Xingda , Chen Huajiang
Published: July 2019

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is known to aggravate with age and oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of many age-related diseases. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived-2)-like 2 (Nrf2) can confer adaptive protection against oxidative and proteotoxic stress in cells. In this study, we assessed whether Nrf2 can protect against oxidative stress in nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. In addition, we investigated Nrf2 expression in NP tissue samples from patients with different degrees of IVD degeneration and a mouse model of aging and IVD degeneration and the influence of H2O2-induced oxidative stress on autophagic pathways in NP cells. Autophagy was assessed by measuring levels of autophagy-related protein (ATG) family members and the autophagic markers, p62 and LC3. We found that expression of Nrf2 progressively decreased in human NP tissue samples of patients with increasing degrees of IVD degeneration. Nrf2 deficiency leads to the degeneration of IVDs during aging. Nrf2 knockout also aggravates IVD degeneration and reduces autophagic gene expression in an induced mouse model of IVD degeneration. The detrimental effects of H2O2-induced oxidative stress were increased in autophagy-deficient cells via reduced expression of Atg7 and the Keap1–Nrf2–p62 autophagy pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that excessive oxidative stress causes the upregulation of autophagy, and autophagy acts as an antioxidant feedback response activated by a Keap1-Nrf2-p62 feedback loop in IVD degeneration.
E1A oncogene induced sensitization to NK cell induced apoptosis requires PIDD and Caspase-2
Authors: Radke Jay R. , Routes John M. , Cook James L.
Published: July 2019

Expression of the adenovirus E1A oncogene sensitizes tumor cells to innate immune rejection by NK cells. This increased NK sensitivity is only partly explained by an E1A-induced increase in target cell surface expression of NKG2D ligands. The post-recognition mechanisms by which E1A sensitizes cells to the apoptotic cell death response to NK injury remains to be defined. E1A sensitizes cells to apoptotic stimuli through two distinct mechanisms—repression of NF-κB-dependent antiapoptotic responses and enhancement of caspase-2 activation and related mitochondrial injury. The current studies examined the roles of each of these post-NKG2D-recognition pathways in the increased sensitivity of E1A-positive target cells to NK killing. Sensitization to NK-induced apoptosis was independent of E1A-mediated repression of cellular NF-κB responses but was dependent on the expression of both caspase-2 and the upstream, caspase-2 activating molecule, PIDD. Target cells lacking caspase-2 or PIDD expression retained E1A-induced increased expression of the NKG2D ligand, RAE-1. NK cell-induced mitochondrial injury of E1A-expressing cells did not require expression of the mitochondrial molecules, Bak or Bax. These results define a PIDD/caspase-2-dependent pathway, through which E1A sensitizes cells to NK-mediated cytolysis independently of and complementarily to E1A-enhanced NKG2D/RAE-1 ligand expression.
Structure and function of the Orc1 BAH-nucleosome complex
Authors: De Ioannes Pablo , Leon Victor A. , Kuang Zheng , Wang Miao , Boeke Jef D. , Hochwagen Andreas , Armache Karim-Jean
Published: July 2019

The Origin Recognition Complex (ORC) is essential for replication, heterochromatin formation, telomere maintenance and genome stability in eukaryotes. Here we present the structure of the yeast Orc1 BAH domain bound to the nucleosome core particle. Our data reveal that Orc1, unlike its close homolog Sir3 involved in gene silencing, does not appear to discriminate between acetylated and non-acetylated lysine 16, modification states of the histone H4 tail that specify open and closed chromatin respectively. We elucidate the mechanism for this unique feature of Orc1 and hypothesize that its ability to interact with nucleosomes regardless of K16 modification state enables it to perform critical functions in both hetero- and euchromatin. We also show that direct interactions with nucleosomes are essential for Orc1 to maintain the integrity of rDNA borders during meiosis, a process distinct and independent from its known roles in silencing and replication.
An ErbB2/c-Src axis links bioenergetics with PRC2 translation to drive epigenetic reprogramming and mammary tumorigenesis
Authors: Smith Harvey W. , Hirukawa Alison , Sanguin-Gendreau Virginie , Nandi Ipshita , Dufour Catherine R. , Zuo Dongmei , Tandoc Kristofferson , Leibovitch Matthew , Singh Salendra , Rennhack Jonathan P. , Swiatnicki Matthew , Lavoie Cynthia , Papavasiliou Vasilios , Temps Carolin , Carragher Neil O. , Unciti-Broceta Asier , Savage Paul , Basik Mark , van Hoef Vincent , Larsson Ola , Cooper Caroline L. , Vargas Calderon Ana Cristina , Beith Jane , Millar Ewan , Selinger Christina , Giguère Vincent , Park Morag , Harris Lyndsay N. , Varadan Vinay , Andrechek Eran R. , O’Toole Sandra A. , Topisirovic Ivan , Muller William J.
Published: July 2019

Dysregulation of histone modifications promotes carcinogenesis by altering transcription. Breast cancers frequently overexpress the histone methyltransferase EZH2, the catalytic subunit of Polycomb Repressor Complex 2 (PRC2). However, the role of EZH2 in this setting is unclear due to the context-dependent functions of PRC2 and the heterogeneity of breast cancer. Moreover, the mechanisms underlying PRC2 overexpression in cancer are obscure. Here, using multiple models of breast cancer driven by the oncogene ErbB2, we show that the tyrosine kinase c-Src links energy sufficiency with PRC2 overexpression via control of mRNA translation. By stimulating mitochondrial ATP production, c-Src suppresses energy stress, permitting sustained activation of the mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), which increases the translation of mRNAs encoding the PRC2 subunits Ezh2 and Suz12. We show that Ezh2 overexpression and activity are pivotal in ErbB2-mediated mammary tumourigenesis. These results reveal the hitherto unknown c-Src/mTORC1/PRC2 axis, which is essential for ErbB2-driven carcinogenesis.
Approaching coupled cluster accuracy with a general-purpose neural network potential through transfer learning
Authors: Smith Justin S. , Nebgen Benjamin T. , Zubatyuk Roman , Lubbers Nicholas , Devereux Christian , Barros Kipton , Tretiak Sergei , Isayev Olexandr , Roitberg Adrian E.
Published: July 2019

Computational modeling of chemical and biological systems at atomic resolution is a crucial tool in the chemist’s toolset. The use of computer simulations requires a balance between cost and accuracy: quantum-mechanical methods provide high accuracy but are computationally expensive and scale poorly to large systems, while classical force fields are cheap and scalable, but lack transferability to new systems. Machine learning can be used to achieve the best of both approaches. Here we train a general-purpose neural network potential (ANI-1ccx) that approaches CCSD(T)/CBS accuracy on benchmarks for reaction thermochemistry, isomerization, and drug-like molecular torsions. This is achieved by training a network to DFT data then using transfer learning techniques to retrain on a dataset of gold standard QM calculations (CCSD(T)/CBS) that optimally spans chemical space. The resulting potential is broadly applicable to materials science, biology, and chemistry, and billions of times faster than CCSD(T)/CBS calculations.
Author Correction: Tau binding protein CAPON induces tau aggregation and neurodegeneration
Authors: Hashimoto Shoko , Matsuba Yukio , Kamano Naoko , Mihira Naomi , Sahara Naruhiko , Takano Jiro , Muramatsu Shin-ichi , Saido Takaomi C. , Saito Takashi
Published: July 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Cathelicidin- derived PR39 protects enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 challenged mice by improving epithelial function and balancing the microbiota in the intestine
Authors: Haiwen Zhang , Rui Hua , Bingxi Zhang , Qingfeng Guan , Beibei Wang , Jifeng Zeng , Xuemei Wang , Kebang Wu
Published: July 2019

The zoonotic enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7 can disrupt intestinal epithelial barrier function and in turn leading to serious intestinal and systemic disease. PR39 could effectively inhibit the growth of Gram-negative bacteria, but there is little knowledge of its effects on intestinal barrier function and the microbiota in E. coli-challenged mice. In this study, an intestinal disease caused by EHEC O157:H7 was established, to analyze the effect of PR39 on EHEC O157:H7 induced intestinal epithelial barrier injury and disorder. Interestingly, PR39 attenuated EHEC O157:H7-induced systemic symptoms and significantly decreased mortality and the degree of E. coli shedding in faeces. Furthermore, the infiltration index of macrophages and neutrophils in intestine of the PR39 treatment group were obviously attenuated, along with the level of apoptosis. PR39 treatment group had distinctly improved tight junction associated proteins’ expression after EHEC O157:H7 caused injury. Additionally, the sequencing analysis of cecum microbiota showed that PR39 altered the abnormal increase in Bacteroides caused by EHEC O157:H7 and promoted the growth of probiotics such as Lactobacillus. In conclusion, cathelicidin-derived PR39 could effectively improve EHEC O157:H7-induced epithelial barrier injury, and dysfunction of immune and microbiota homeostasis in the intestinal tract, indicating that PR39 could be an excellent potential drug for zoonotic EHEC O157:H7-related intestinal disease.
Expression of neuropeptide Y is increased in an activated human HSC cell line
Authors: Dai Wufei , Liu Yang , Zhang Yali , Sun Yufeng , Sun Changjiang , Zhang Yu , Lv Xiufang
Published: July 2019

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is an abundant neuropeptide in the mammalian central and peripheral nervous systems. Transgenic mice overexpressing NPY in noradrenergic neurons have increased level of hepatic triglycerides, fatty acids and cholesterol, which contributed to the development of hepatosteatosis. However, the roles of NPY in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the expression and secretion of NPY in human immortalized HSC LX-2 cells and the regulatory function of NPY on the fibrogenic response in LX-2 cells, to explore the potential association between NPY and LX-2 activation. The results showed an increase in the expression and secretion of NPY(1–36) in activated LX-2 cells. Both endogenous and exogenous NPY(1–36) induced the phosphorylation of mTOR, p70S6K, and 4EBP1 and promoted the fibrogenic response via NPY Y1 receptor subtype (NPY1R), as these responses were blocked by either an NPY1R antagonist (BIBP3226) or NPY1R knockdown. Moreover, NPY(1–36) serum levels were increased in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and presented a positive relationship with MELD scores in LC patients. These findings suggest that immortalized HSCs LX-2 have the potential to produce NPY(1–36). High serum levels of NPY(1–36) is correlated with hepatic dysfunction in cirrhotic patients.
Associations between body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, and high blood pressure among adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kuciene Renata , Dulskiene Virginija
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the present study was to examine the associations between body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and high blood pressure (HBP), and to determine which anthropometric parameters can best predict HBP among Lithuanian adolescents aged 12–15 years. Data from the survey of “Prevalence and Risk Factors of HBP in 12–15-Year-Old Lithuanian Children and Adolescents (Study 1, 2010–2012)” were used; a total of 7,457 respondents (3,494 boys and 3,963 girls) were included in this analysis. Adolescents with BP above the 90th percentile were measured on two different occasions. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the associations and to calculate odds ratios. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the predictive ability of the three anthropometric parameters to predict HBP. The adjusted odds ratios (aOR) in the highest quartiles of BMI, WC, and WHtR were statistically significant for both sexes separately (reference group – the first quartile): in boys, prehypertension – 4.91, 4.09, and 1.59; hypertension – 7.96, 6.44, and 2.81; and prehypertension/hypertension – 6.85, 5.65, and 2.37, respectively; and in girls, prehypertension – 3.42, 2.70, and 1.66; hypertension – 5.71, 3.54, and 2.90; and prehypertension/hypertension – 4.62, 3.17, and 2.31, respectively). According to the analyses of the ROC curve, BMI z-score provided the largest area under the curve (AUC) value, followed by WC z-score, while WHtR z-score showed the lowest AUC value in predicting elevated BP in both sexes separately. Among Lithuanian adolescents aged 12–15 years, both anthropometric indices – BMI and WC (but particularly BMI) – showed stronger associations with HBP and were better for the prediction of HBP, compared to WHtR.
Quantification of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners in wastewater by gas chromatography with electron capture detector (GC-ECD)
Authors: Komolafe Oladapo , Bowler Bernard , Dolfing Jan , Mrozik Wojciech , Davenport Russell J.
Published: June 2019

This manuscript describes a novel approach for the quantification of PBDEs involving an optimized SPE and GC-ECD method.
Fast determination of oxide content in cement raw meal using NIR spectroscopy with the SPXY algorithm
Authors: Yang Zhenfa , Xiao Hang , Zhang Lei , Feng Dejun , Zhang Faye , Jiang Mingshun , Sui Qingmei , Jia Lei
Published: July 2019

NIR spectroscopy combined with PLS and SPXY algorithms has been investigated to yield a new analytical method for the fast determination of CaO, SiO2, Al2O3and Fe2O3in cement raw meal samples in the process of cement production.
A new mitochondrion targetable fluorescent probe for carbon monoxide-specific detection and live cell imaging
Authors: Zhang Chenxia , Xie Hai , Zhan Tongxia , Zhang Jie , Chen Bochao , Qian Zhaosheng , Zhang Guanglu , Zhang Weifen , Zhou Jin
Published: July 2019

A red molecular probe for carbon monoxide (CO)-specific detection based on palladium-free mediated opening of spirolactam has been applied to establish a safe and powerful method to detect and image CO changes in biological systems.
O-Functionalization of a cobalt carbonyl generates a terminal cobalt carbyne
Authors: Deegan Meaghan M. , Peters Jonas C.
Published: July 2019

We describe the synthesis of a series of terminally-bound Co-carbonyl complexes, with the most reduced state amenable to O-functionalization to generate a rare example of a late transition metal carbyne.
Eco-friendly nanostructured Zn–Al layered double hydroxide photocatalysts with enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Hua Zhong , Lang Jihui , Song Yuxin , Zhang Qi , Han Qiang , Fan Hougang , Gao Ming , Li Xiuyan , Yang Jinghai
Published: July 2019

Zn–Al layered double hydroxides (Zn–Al LDHs) with various reaction times were synthesized by a hydrothermal method at constant pH, and they were tested for the removal of RhB with or without post-calcination treatment.
Scrutinizing the substituent effect on Mo-based electrocatalysts for molecular hydrogen release through axial–equatorial decomposition: a DFT study
Authors: Yepes Diana , Jaque Pablo , Martínez-Araya Jorge I.
Published: July 2019

The effect of electron-donating and -withdrawing groups is studied in terms of axial and equatorial locations at the p-pyridine rings in the [(PY5Me2)MoO]2+for the H2release in aqueous media. It opens a way to modify its kinetics and thermodynamics.
Influence of water on the CH3O˙ + O2 → CH2O + HO2˙ reaction
Authors: Mallick Subhasish , Kumar Amit , Mishra Brijesh Kumar , Kumar Pradeep
Published: June 2019

Electronic structure calculations employing density functional theory have been used to study the effect of a single water molecule on the CH3O˙ + O2 → CH2O + HO2˙ reaction.
Electronic and magnetic properties of a ferromagnetic cobalt surface by adsorbing ultrathin films of tetracyanoethylene
Authors: Lach Stefan , Altenhof Anna , Shi Shengwei , Fahlman Mats , Ziegler Christiane
Published: July 2019

Understanding the very promising, highly spin polarized, foundation system TCNE/Co(100) for future spintronic architecture, using an advanced multi method approach.
Photo-catalytic hydrogen production over Au/g-C3N4: effect of gold particle dispersion and morphology
Authors: Caux M. , Menard H. , AlSalik Y. M. , Irvine J. T. S. , Idriss H.
Published: June 2019

Metal/semiconductor interactions affect electron transfer rates and this is central to photocatalytic hydrogen ion reduction.
Pressure-induced Ge2Se3and Ge3Se4crystals with low superconducting transition temperatures
Authors: Yu Hulei , Chen Yue
Published: July 2019

Crystalline Ge2Se3and Ge3Se4compounds are predicted to be stable and exhibit superconducting transitions under high pressures.
Explicitly correlated potential energy surface of the CO2–CO van der Waals dimer and applications
Authors: Badri Ayda , Shirkov Leonid , Jaidane Nejm-Eddine , Hochlaf Majdi
Published: June 2019

Using ab initio methodology, we generated the 4D-PES of the CO2–CO complex for spectroscopic and dynamical computations.
Theoretical exploration of 2,2′-bipyridines as electro-active compounds in flow batteries
Authors: Sánchez-Castellanos Mariano , Flores-Leonar Martha M. , Mata-Pinzón Zaahel , Laguna Humberto G. , García-Ruiz Karl M. , Rozenel Sergio S. , Ugalde-Saldívar Víctor M. , Moreno-Esparza Rafael , Pijpers Joep J. H. , Amador-Bedolla Carlos
Published: July 2019

Identifying optimal 2,2′-bipyridine derivatives for negative redox-active materials in organic flow batteries using a combined theoretical and experimental approach.
Solvent-assisted structural conversion involving bimetallic complexes based on the tris(oxalato)ferrate(iii) unit with the green → blue → red crystal color sequence
Authors: Muzioł Tadeusz M. , Tereba Natalia , Podgajny Robert , Kędziera Dariusz , Wrzeszcz Grzegorz
Published: July 2019

Three Cu(ii)/Fe(ii)-bpy-[Fe(ox)3]3−complexes related by structural conversion were studied by XAS, magnetic methods and theoretical calculations.
A flexible and robust dual-network supramolecular elastic film with solvent resistance and brilliant structural colors
Authors: Wu Jia , Niu Wenbin , Zhang Shufen , Wu Suli , Ma Wei , Tang Bingtao
Published: July 2019

Structural color films were prepared by combining a Zn2+-crosslinked supramolecular elastic material with PS@SiO2 colloidal crystals.
Electronic shells of a tubular Au26 cluster: a cage–cage superatomic molecule based on spherical aromaticity
Authors: Liu Qiman , Xu Chang , Wu Xia , Cheng Longjiu
Published: July 2019

A di-superatomic model for the tubular Au26 cluster: a triple super bond (σ, 2π) between two superatomic open cages in the tubular Au26 cluster.
Probing Ca2+-induced conformational change of calmodulin with gold nanoparticle-decorated single-walled carbon nanotube field-effect transistors
Authors: Shao Wenting , Burkert Seth C. , White David L. , Scott Valerie L. , Ding Jianfu , Li Zhao , Ouyang Jianying , Lapointe François , Malenfant Patrick R. L. , Islam Kabirul , Star Alexander
Published: July 2019

Nanoelectronic detection of ion-induced protein conformational changes with metal nanoparticle-decorated carbon nanotube FET.
Millisecond tension-annealing for enhancing carbon nanotube fibers
Authors: Song Yanhui , Di Jiangtao , Zhang Chao , Zhao Jingna , Zhang Yongyi , Hu Dongmei , Li Min , Zhang Zuoguang , Wei Huazhen , Li Qingwen
Published: July 2019

A millisecond tension-annealing process by high-temperature Joule heating was proposed to fast align CNTs and strongly crosslink the neighbouring CNTs in the CNT fibers.
Multifunctional graphene oxide-bacteriophage based porous three-dimensional micro-nanocomposites
Authors: Passaretti Paolo , Sun Yiwei , Khan Inam , Chan Kieran , Sabo Rania , White Henry , Dafforn Timothy R. , Oppenheimer Pola Goldberg
Published: June 2019

An alternative self-assembly strategy based on low-interactions for the fabrication of graphene-based sponges, using M13 bacteriophage as a cross-linking agent.
Oxide rupture-induced conductivity in liquid metal nanoparticles by laser and thermal sintering
Authors: Liu Shanliangzi , Reed Serrae N. , Higgins Matthew J. , Titus Michael S. , Kramer-Bottiglio Rebecca
Published: July 2019

The oxide rupture-induced mechanisms that enable electrical conductivity of liquid metal nanoparticles using thermal and laser sintering.
Forming layered conjugated porous BBL structures
Authors: Shin Sun-Hee , Noh Hyuk-Jun , Kim Young-Hyun , Im Yoon-Kwang , Mahmood Javeed , Baek Jong-Beom
Published: June 2019

Ladder-like poly(benzoimidazobenzophenanthrolines) (BBLs) have attracted great interest due to their outstanding features, including thermal and chemical stability, electrical conductivity, and optical and electronic properties.
Efficient all-air processed mixed cation carbon-based perovskite solar cells with ultra-high stability
Authors: Zhou Junshuai , Wu Jiaojiao , Li Nan , Li Xitao , Zheng Yan-Zhen , Tao Xia
Published: July 2019

The all-air-processed MWCNT-incorporated mixed cation carbon-based perovskite solar cells achieve an outstanding PCE of 16.25% and the best ambient-air stability of PSCs fabricated in air so far.
USP21 modulates Goosecoid function through deubiquitination
Authors: Liu Fuwei , Fu Qian , Li Yunpeng , Zhang Kai , Tang Mingyue , Jiang Wei , Bo Bin , Cui Yajun , Kong Liang
Published: June 2019

The homeobox gene Goosecoid (GSC), which is known to regulate craniofacial development, is activated by mono-ubiquitination; however, the deubiquitylase responsible for GSC deubiquitination and inhibition has yet to be identified. In the present study, we constructed the recombinant plasmid pFlag-CMV-2-GSC and the SRY (sex-determining region Y)-box 6 (Sox6) reporter gene system to identify deubiquitylases that regulate GSC expression. We demonstrate that the ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 21 (USP21) regulates the deubiquitination of GSC negatively, as demonstrated by its inhibition of Sox6 reporter gene transcription. USP21 interacted with GSC to promote GSC deubiquitination while having no effect on GSC protein stability. Cell viability, migration, and function in ATDC5 cells were probably influenced by USP21 through GSC. These findings suggest that USP21 modulates GSC function through deubiquitination.
LHPP suppresses bladder cancer cell proliferation and growth via inactivating AKT/p65 signaling pathway
Authors: Li Yansheng , Zhang Xin , Zhou Xiaoguang , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: July 2019

Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the commonest malignancies in the urinary system. Recent evidences have shown that Phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase (LHPP) serves as a tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma and cervical cancer. However, little is known about its function in BC. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of LHPP in BC. We found that LHPP was down-regulated in BC tissues and cells. Knockdown of LHPP promoted the proliferation and growth of BC cells T24 and 5637. Inverse results were observed in SW780 and BIU87 cells with ectopic LHPP expression. LHPP also repressed the glycolysis of BC cells. At the molecular level, LHPP silencing led to enhanced phosphorylation of both AKT and p65, as well as up-regulation of their downstream targets Bcl-2 and Cyclin D1. Inhibition of AKT by MK2206 blunted the increased phosphorylation of p65 caused by LHPP knockdown, suggesting that LHPP silencing activated p65 through AKT. Importantly, p65 inhibitor (caffeic acid phenethyl ester) exhibited larger suppressive effect on the proliferation of LHPP knockdown BC cells as compared with Ctrl cell. Our study demonstrates that LHPP suppresses BC cell growth via inactivating AKT/p65 signaling pathway.
Progesterone receptor antagonist provides palliative effects for uterine leiomyoma through a Bcl-2/Beclin1-dependent mechanism
Authors: Zhang Lindong , Feng Quanling , Wang Zhiting , Liu Pingping , Cui Shihong
Published: July 2019

Uterine leiomyoma is the most common benign smooth muscle tumor of uterus in women of reproductive age, with a high lifetime incidence. Nowadays, the exploration on the pharmacotherapies, such as progesterone receptor antagonist (PRA) requires more attention. Hence, the current study aimed to examine whether mifepristone, a PRA, influences the autophagy and apoptosis of uterine leiomyoma cells. Primary uterine leiomyoma cells were collected from 36 patients diagnosed with uterine leiomyoma to establish PR-M-positive (PR-M[+]) cells. The lentiviral vector overexpressing or silencing PR-M was subsequently delivered into one part of PR-M(+) cells in order to evaluate the role of PR-M in PR-M(+) cells. The results obtained revealed that cell viability was increased, while cell autophagy and apoptosis were diminished in the PR-M(+) cells treated with overexpressed PR-M, whereby the Bcl-2 level was elevated and the level of Beclin1 was reduced. An opposite trends were identified following treatment with knockdown of PR-M. Mifepristone at different concentrations (low, moderate, or high) was then applied to treat another part of the PR-M(+) cells. Mifepristone was identified to promote cell autophagy and apoptosis, decrease Bcl-2 level and increase Beclin1 level, accompanied by weakened interaction between Bcl-2 and Beclin1. Moreover, these effects of mifepristone on PR-M(+) cells were enhanced with increasing of the concentration. Taken together, the present study present evidence indicates the ability of PRA to regulate the Bcl-2/Beclin1 axis, ultimately promoting the autophagy and apoptosis of uterine leiomyoma cells, highlighting that PRA serves as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of uterine leiomyoma.
A New Method for Studying Statistical Learning in Young Children
Authors: Kavakci Mariam , Dollaghan Christine
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a new oculomotor serial reaction time (RT) task revealed statistical sequence learning in young children.

Method

We used eye tracking to measure typically developing children's oculomotor RTs in response to cartoon-like creatures that appeared successively in quadrants of a monitor during 200 trials: an initial patterned phase (120 trials) in which the creature's location reflected 15 repetitions of an 8-element sequence, a pseudorandom phase (40 trials) in which the location was not predictable, and a final patterned phase (40 trials). In an auditory–visual version of the task, spoken nonwords linked to quadrants preceded the creature's appearance. In Study 1, we administered either the visual or the auditory–visual version to 5- and 6-year-old children; in Study 2, we examined the performance of 4-year-olds on the auditory–visual version.

Results

In both studies, group mean RT
z
scores were significantly shorter (
p
< .05) during patterned than pseudorandom phases, with large effect sizes (Cohen's
dz
values = 1.17–1.79).

Conclusion

The new oculomotor serial RT task detected statistical sequence learning in typically developing children.
Ratunku!
or Just
Tunku!
Evidence for the Reliability and Concurrent Validity of the Language Use Inventory–Polish
Authors: Białecka-Pikul Marta , Filip Anna , Stępień-Nycz Małgorzata , Kuś Katarzyna , O'Neill Daniela K.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

To date, there is no tool for assessing early pragmatic development of Polish-speaking children. This study aimed to adapt to Polish a standardized parent report measure, the Language Use Inventory (LUI;
O'Neill, 2009
, in order to enable cross-cultural comparisons and to use the LUI-Polish to screen for pragmatic development in children 18–47 months of age. We concentrated on the sociocultural and functional adaptation of LUI and aimed to demonstrate its reliability, developmental sensitivity, and concurrent validity.

Method

Parents completed an online version of LUI-Polish, longitudinally at 3 time points (when the child was 20, 32, and 44 months old). In addition, parents completed the Polish adaptations of the Questionnaire for Communication and Early Language at 22 months and the Language Development Survey at 24 months. Children's spontaneous speech was assessed at 24 months, and their expressive and receptive vocabulary was assessed at 36 months.

Results

All 3 parts of the LUI-Polish (Gestures, Words, and Sentences) showed very good levels of internal consistency at each time point. Significant correlations were observed between all parts of the LUI-Polish at all 3 measurement time points. The expected developmental trajectory was observed for boys and girls providing evidence of its developmental sensitivity for children between the ages of 2 and 4 years: an increase with age in the total score (due to an increase in Words and Sentences) and a decrease in Gestures. Supporting concurrent validity, significant correlations were found between children's performance on (a) the LUI-Polish at 20 months and the Questionnaire for Communication and Early Language at 22 months as well as the Language Development Survey and spontaneous speech measures at 24 months and (b) the LUI-Polish at 32 months and the 2 measures of vocabulary comprehension and production at 36 months.

Conclusion

The Polish adaptation of the LUI demonstrated good psychometric properties that provide a sound basis for cross-cultural comparisons and further research toward norming of the LUI-Polish. Moreover, the expected developmental trajectory in the pragmatic development of Polish children was observed.
Fault exclusion method for ARAIM based on tight GNSS/INS integration to achieve CAT‐I approach
Authors: Pan Weichuan , Zhan Xingqun , Zhang Xin
Published: June 2019

Advanced Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (ARAIM) with two or more constellations will be widely used in the aircraft to safeguard the safety of the flight crew and passengers. The ARAIM based on tight integration of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS) attracts widespread attention for its ability to meet the integrity requirement of Category‐I (CAT‐I) approach. However, more available satellites lead to higher satellite fault probability. So a fault exclusion (FE) method is necessary to continue providing positioning services and integrity performance after the faults are detected. In this study, an FE method for GNSS/INS ARAIM is presented to identify the failing satellite and to provide real‐time integrity performance after exclusion. The proposed subset‐identifying method takes into account the prior probabilities of satellite faults, which is able to greatly improve the accuracy of finding the failing satellite. The simulation results show that the proposed after‐exclusion integrity estimating method is able to provide integrity performance meeting the requirements of CAT‐I. Therefore, the proposed method is able to improve the continuity and availability performance of the navigation system for civil aviation.
Exposing the plural nature of molecular clouds
Authors: Robitaille J.-F. , Motte F. , Schneider N. , Elia D. , Bontemps S.
Published: July 2019

We present the Multiscale non-Gaussian Segmentation (MnGSeg) analysis technique. This wavelet-based method combines the analysis of the probability distribution function (PDF) of map fluctuations as a function of spatial scales and the power spectrum analysis of a map. This technique allows us to extract the non-Gaussianities identified in the multiscaled PDFs usually associated with turbulence intermittency and to spatially reconstruct the Gaussian and the non-Gaussian components of the map. This new technique can be applied on any data set. In the present paper, it is applied on a Herschel column density map of the Polaris flare cloud. The first component has by construction a self-similar fractal geometry similar to that produced by fractional Brownian motion (fBm) simulations. The second component is called the coherent component, as opposed to fractal, and includes a network of filamentary structures that demonstrates a spatial hierarchical scaling (i.e. filaments inside filaments). The power spectrum analysis of the two components proves that the Fourier power spectrum of the initial map is dominated by the power of the coherent filamentary structures across almost all spatial scales. The coherent structures contribute increasingly from larger to smaller scales, without producing any break in the inertial range. We suggest that this behaviour is induced, at least partly, by inertial-range intermittency, a well-known phenomenon for turbulent flows. We also demonstrate that the MnGSeg technique is itself a very sensitive signal analysis technique that allows the extraction of the cosmic infrared background (CIB) signal present in the Polaris flare submillimetre observations and the detection of a characteristic scale for 0.1 ≲ l ≲ 0.3 pc. The origin of this characteristic scale could partly be the transition of regimes dominated by incompressible turbulence versus compressible modes and other physical processes, such as gravity.