bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role and possible mechanism of long noncoding RNA PVT1 in modulating 3T3‐L1 preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhang Dan , Qin Zhen‐Ying , Li Jing , Shen Zi‐Yang
Published: March 2020

Obesity is considered as a high‐risk susceptibility state for most metabolic disorders and is directly related to preadipocyte differentiation or adipogenesis. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are the key factors which have regulatory functions on various critical physiological and biological processes. PVT1 was identified as an oncogenic lncRNA which could promote angiogenesis in gastric cancer. However, the functions and molecular pathways related to PVT1 in adipogenesis had not been clarified yet. In the current study, the purpose was to identify the effects of lncRNA PVT1 on adipogenesis and the relevant molecular processes. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) was used to quantify PVT1 expression. The mechanism for PVT1 to participate in 3T3‐L1 adipogenesis was identified by lentivirus‐mediated gain‐ and loss‐of‐function tests. The potential association of PVT1 with cell viability was checked by CCK‐8 assay and EdU staining. The gene expression for cytokines was determined by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and western blotting. PVT1 expression level was strongly upregulated after 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes differentiated. In mice, PVT1 was abundantly expressed in adipose tissue, and the obese mice had higher PVT1 expression in adipose tissue than that of nonobese mice. Predominantly, PVT1 was found inside the nuclei. Overexpressed PVT1 could promote 3T3‐L1 adipocyte differentiation as proved, which was the cause for the ability to accelerate lipid accumulation, by upregulating the expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma, CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α, and adipocyte protein 2, while knockdown of PVT1 caused opposite effects. The RNA immunoprecipitation demonstrated the binding relationship between PVT1 and STAT3 suggesting the potential role of STAT3 in 3T3‐L1 preadipocyte differentiation. Furthermore, PVT1 could promote fatty acid synthesis but inhibit fatty acid oxidation. PVT1 was positively associated with 3T3‐L1 preadipocyte differentiation, which highlighted the potential of PVT1 as a therapeutic target for obesity treatment.
Real‐time display of laboratory testing status improves satisfaction levels in an emergency department: A pilot study
Authors: Chang Jeonghyun , Kim Sollip , Um Tae Hyun , Cho Chong Rae , Shin Dong Wun , Yoo Soo Jin
Published: March 2020

Background

Clinicians need to know timelines of requested laboratory tests to provide effective patient management. We developed a real‐time laboratory progress checking system and measured its effectiveness using appropriate indicators in an emergency room setting.

Methods

In our original in‐house health information system display, blank spaces, which were generated for test results when tests were ordered, remained empty until the final results reported. We upgraded the laboratory reporting system to show real‐time testing information. The stages included requests for test, label printing, sampling, laboratory receipts, performance of tests, verification of results, and interpretation of results and final report by laboratory physician. To assess the usefulness of the function, we measured the emergency department healthcare workers' satisfaction and compared the number of phone calls about test status before and after implementation.

Results

After the system upgrade, the healthcare workers' understanding of the testing process increased significantly as follows. More clinicians could estimate the time of final test results through the real‐time testing status information (61.9% and 85.7%, P = .002), and respondents reported that the upgraded system was more convenient than the original system (41.3% and 22.2%, respectively, P = .022). The number of phone calls about the test status decreased after implementation of the upgrade; however, the difference was not statistically significant (before, 0.13% [63 calls/48 637 tests] and after, 0.09% [42/46 666]; P = .066).

Conclusions

The real‐time display of laboratory testing status increased understanding of testing process among healthcare workers in emergency room, which ultimately may increase the usefulness and efficiency of the laboratory service use.
Comparison of electrolyte and glucose levels measured by a blood gas analyzer and an automated biochemistry analyzer among hospitalized patients
Authors: Yi Huo‐Chun , Shi Wen‐Sheng , Zhang Yin‐Hui , Zhu Xiao‐Zhen , Yu Yang , Wang Xin‐Xin , Dai Zhang , Lin Yong
Published: March 2020

Background

Blood gas analyzers are capable of delivering results on electrolytes and metabolites within a few minutes and facilitate clinical decision‐making. However, whether the results can be used interchangeably with values measured by chemistry analyzers remains controversial.

Blood gas analyzers are capable of delivering results on electrolytes and metabolites within a few minutes and facilitate clinical decision‐making. However, whether the results can be used interchangeably with values measured by chemistry analyzers remains controversial.

Methods

In total, arterial and matched venous blood samples were collected from 200 hospitalized patients. Arterial blood samples were evaluated using a RAPIDPOINT 500 to test electrolyte and glucose levels, then the samples were centrifuged and the same parameters were measured with an AU5800. Venous blood samples were processed and tested in accordance with standard operation procedures. Data were compared by using a paired t test, the agreement between the two analyzers was evaluated by using the Bland‐Altman test, and sensitivity and specificity were calculated.

Results

Paired t tests showed that all parameters tested were significantly different between the two analyzers except chloride. The biases calculated indicated that blood gas analyzers tend to underestimate the parameters, and the linear regression showed a strong correlation between the two analyzers. The sensitivity, specificity and kappa values demonstrated that the diagnostic performance of blood gas analyzers is not satisfactory.

Conclusion

The significant reduction in parameter estimation and diagnostic performance we observed suggested that clinicians should interpret results from blood gas analyzers more cautiously. The reference interval of blood gas analyzers should be adjusted accordingly, given that values are underestimated.
Identification, expression pattern, and immune response of Tim‐1 and Tim‐4 in embryos and adult medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Authors: Shen Hao , Nibona Emile , Xu Gongyu , Al Hafiz Md. Abdullah , Ke Xiaomei , Liang Xiaoting , Yao Qiting , Zhong Xueping , Zhou Qingchun , Zhao Haobin
Published: March 2020

T‐cell immunoglobulin (Ig) and mucin domain‐containing 1 (Tim‐1) and Tim‐4 are two members of the Tim family. In mammals, Tim‐1 and Tim‐4 are proteins mainly expressed in immune cells and are associated with immune response. In the present study, medaka Oryzias latipes' Tim‐1 (OlTim‐1) and OlTim‐4 were identified and characterized using bioinformatics analyses. With the use of reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction, the expression profiles of OlTim‐1 and OlTim‐4 were examined in embryos and adult fish and in immune tissues following the intraperitoneal injection of stimulants. The results revealed that OlTim‐1 possesses a cytoplasmic region, a transmembrane region, a mucin domain, and an Ig‐like domain, while OlTim‐4 is composed of two Ig‐like domains and a mucin domain, but without the transmembrane region and cytoplasmic region. OlTim‐1 and OlTim‐4 expressions are detectable from the gastrula stage on, indicating that they are zygotic genes. Furthermore, OlTim‐1 and OlTim‐4 are expressed ubiquitously in the adult. Administration of immune stimulants, namely lipopolysaccharides and polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, significantly increased the expression levels of OlTim‐1 and OlTim‐4 in the liver and intestine within 1 day and in the head, kidney, and spleen within 3 to 4 days postinjection. These results suggest that OlTim‐1 and OlTim‐4 are possibly involved in both innate and adaptive immunities.
Three‐pole wide‐tuning‐range balanced frequency‐agile bandpass filter with constant absolute bandwidth and 3 transmission zeros
Authors: Li Zhiyou , Tang Xiaohong , Yang Yang , Lu Di , Cai Zongqi
Published: March 2020

This paper proposes a 3‐pole wide‐tuning‐range, balanced frequency‐agile bandpass filter (BAL‐FA‐BPF) with constant absolute bandwidth (CABW) and 3 transmission zeros (TZs). Under the differential‐mode (DM) operation, the cascaded trisection coupling topology with source‐load coupling is constructed. Thus, 3 adaptive TZs are generated for the DM responses, which improves the passband selectivity and stopband suppression. Under the common‐mode (CM) operation, the short stubs and lumped elements are added at the symmetric plane which effectively improves the CM suppression. Using the advanced matrix synthesis, a demonstrative BAL‐FA‐BPF is designed with stable CABW and controlled by single‐DC‐bias. The measured frequency tuning range of the DM passband is 2.0 to 3.0 GHz (40%) and 3 dB‐bandwidth is kept at 174 ± 3 MHz (±1.7%). The CM suppression is better than 25 dB.
The Effect of Raceway Grading on Return to Creel for Catchable-Sized Hatchery Rainbow Trout
Authors: Meyer Kevin A , Cassinelli John D
Published: March 2020

Hatchery trout of catchable size (i.e., about 250 mm total length; hereafter termed “catchables”), which are stocked into put-and-take fisheries, are expensive to raise, so fisheries management agencies strive to modify rearing practices to maximize the proportion of stocked catchables that anglers catch. We graded fish in production-level hatchery rearing units at both fingerling and catchable size, dividing the fish into “leaders” (herein, the larger fish in a rearing unit, separated during a grading event) and “laggers” (the smaller fish). We hypothesized that (1) grading and immediate stocking of catchable leaders and short-term retention and continued feeding of catchable laggers might increase lagger growth and result in a larger average size of fish being stocked (relative to fish from ungraded raceways), potentially improving overall return to creel for the graded group and (2) grading and separation of fingerling leaders and laggers early in the rearing process may reduce competition between smaller and larger fish for the remainder of the rearing period, potentially improving overall poststocking return to creel for the entire group without the need for catchable grading at the time of stocking. We found that grading catchables just prior to stocking slightly increased the mean size at stocking (compared with ungraded control fish) for the first stocking period, which resulted in slightly higher return to creel for stocked fish. However, across the entire stocking period and with equal feed between groups, mean size at release was nearly identical between the graded and the control fish, as was return to creel by anglers. Grading fingerlings to separate leaders and laggers for the remainder of the rearing period also had no positive effect on angler catch. Our findings suggest that production-level grading is ineffective at increasing the growth of laggers, so it will not increase overall size at stocking. Consequently, improvements in angler catch are unlikely to materialize from grading hatchery trout prior to stocking them into put-and-take fisheries.
Strategies for Engineering High‐Performance PGM‐Free Catalysts toward Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions
Authors: Du Lei , Xing Lixin , Zhang Gaixia , Dubois Marc , Sun Shuhui
Published: March 2020

The worldwide fossil fuel shortage and resultant environmental issues urgently require renewable and clean energy technologies. Electrocatalytic oxygen reduction/evolution reactions (ORR/OER) are the cornerstone for renewable energy conversion and storage devices, such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, unitized regenerative fuel cells, and metal‐air batteries. High‐performance electrocatalysts are required to improve the ORR and OER activity and stability, and thus the device performance. Therefore, appropriate strategies and methods are crucial for the rational design and synthesis of highly efficient ORR/OER electrocatalysts. On the other hand, the conventional platinum‐group‐metal‐based (PGM‐based) catalysts, such as Pt and Ir/Ru (oxides), have been facing great challenges, including limited resources and high cost, leading to them being less competitive in the market. Thus, a lot of effort has been devoted to developing alternative PGM‐free ORR/OER catalysts, which, however, still suffer from low activity and insufficient stability. In this review paper, the strategies for engineering high‐performance PGM‐free ORR and OER electrocatalysts are discussed by reviewing the most recent advances. At the end, perspectives on the methods to rationally design PGM‐free ORR and OER catalysts are provided.
DNA methylation changes of apoptotic genes in organogenesis stage of mice embryos by maternal chlorpyrifos induction
Authors: Barzi Nastaran Vahabi , Eftekhari Zohre , Doroud Delaram , Eidi Akram
Published: March 2020

The continued use of pesticides is one of the requirements of modern agriculture. Investigations have shown that pesticides can alter gene methylation and expression and subsequently may lead to abortion or birth of embryos with teratogenic disorders. In present study, 30 female NMRI mouse were divided in three experimental groups which in the CPF group, intraperitoneal chlorpyrifos was injected, in the sham group, DMSO was injected, and the control group without injection. The mice were mated and utinized 10 days' post gestation. The number of embryos in each fertilized female, maternal weight, and liver fibrosis was evaluated. The apoptosis pathway genes (caspase3, caspase9) and protein expressions (pro‐caspase3, caspase3) of the embryos were evaluated with qRT‐PCR and western blot, respectively. The DNA methylation of caspase3 and caspase9 were also assessed. The number of embryos and obtained maternal weight from the CPF group was significantly lower than other two groups. The mRNA expression of Caspase3 and Caspase9 were significantly higher in the CPF group. The protein expression evaluation confirmed the results achieved at the mRNA level. The percentage of Caspase9 DNA methylation in embryos collected from the CPF group was higher compared to the others. It can be considered that consumption of chlorpyrifos toxin can alter the DNA methylation and increase the expression of apoptotic genes. Therefore, continuous use of chlopyrifos may affect pregnancy by increasing the apoptosis pathway in the developing embryos which may lead to abortion or teratogenic disorders in newborn infants.
Two different prenatal imaging cerebral patterns of tubulinopathy
Authors: Cabet S. , Karl K. , Garel C. , Delius M. , Hartung J. , Lesca G. , Chaoui R. , Guibaud L.
Published: March 2020

To illustrate the prenatal cerebral imaging features associated with tubulinopathy, we report on five affected fetuses from unrelated families, with a de‐novo heterozygous variant in a tubulin gene (TUBA1A, TUBB2B or TUBB3). We identified two distinct prenatal imaging patterns related to tubulinopathy: a severe form, characterized by enlarged germinal matrices, microlissencephaly and a kinked brainstem; and a mild form which has not been reported previously in the prenatal literature. The latter form is associated with non‐specific features, including an asymmetric brainstem, corpus callosal dysgenesis, a lack of Sylvian fissure operculization and distortion of the anterior part of the interhemispheric fissure with subsequent impacted medial borders of the frontal lobes, the combination of which, in the absence of additional extracerebral anomalies, is highly suggestive of tubulinopathy. Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Biodegradation and biosorption of Reactive Red 120 dye by immobilized Pseudomonas guariconensis: Kinetic and toxicity study
Authors: Reddy Swarnkumar , Osborne Jabez W.
Published: March 2020

Reactive dyes are pernicious pollutants in textile effluent, which are to be treated passably before discharging into the environment. In the present study, a potential dye degrading bacterial strain Pseudomonas guariconensis was isolated from paddy rhizosphere and was characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The biodegradation ability of the strain was evaluated by time‐based study with immobilized bacterial cells in calcium alginate biocarrier matrix and also with free cells. The results indicated that the strain exhibited maximum degradation of 91% when immobilized in the biocarrier matrix. The enzymatic study revealed the production of oxidoreductase enzymes. The degraded products were identified as 2‐amino‐3‐phenylpropanoic acid and benzoquinone by gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC‐MS) analysis, and a degradative pathway was derived based on the enzymatic profile. A packed bed column was designed using P. guariconensis VITSAJ5 immobilized in calcium alginate beads as a biosorbent for the removal of Reactive Red 120. The immobilized bacterial cells exhibited 87% uptake of RR120, whereas the nonimmobilized bacterial cells exhibited a maximum uptake of 37%. The phytotoxicity analysis by seed germination assay revealed an enhanced plumule and radicle length, indicating the nontoxic byproducts after the treatment of Reactive Red 120 by VITSAJ5 compared to the untreated Reactive Red 120 solution.

Practitioner points

Current study is the first report on Pseudomonas guariconensis capable of degrading reactive dyes (Reactive Red 120)

It was observed that the degradation potential was maximum when cells were immobilized with Ca‐Ag biocarrier matrix

Breakdown metabolism of Reactive Red 120 was derived through pathway prediction

Employing immobilized bacteria in a packed bed column found to possess a prominent biosorption ability on the matrix enhancing the degradation process

Toxic reactive dye was converted into nontoxic compounds, evidenced by phytotoxicity studies
Phage nanofibers in nanomedicine: Biopanning for early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and proteomics analysis
Authors: Xu Hong , Cao Binrui , Li Yan , Mao Chuanbin
Published: March 2020

Display of a peptide or protein of interest on the filamentous phage (also known as bacteriophage), a biological nanofiber, has opened a new route for disease diagnosis and therapy as well as proteomics. Earlier phage display was widely used in protein–protein or antigen–antibody studies. In recent years, its application in nanomedicine is becoming increasingly popular and encouraging. We aim to review the current status in this research direction. For better understanding, we start with a brief introduction of basic biology and structure of the filamentous phage. We present the principle of phage display and library construction method on the basis of the filamentous phage. We summarize the use of the phage displayed peptide library for selecting peptides with high affinity against cells or tissues. We then review the recent applications of the selected cell or tissue targeting peptides in developing new targeting probes and therapeutics to advance the early diagnosis and targeted therapy of different diseases in nanomedicine. We also discuss the integration of antibody phage display and modern proteomics in discovering new biomarkers or target proteins for disease diagnosis and therapy. Finally, we propose an outlook for further advancing the potential impact of phage display on future nanomedicine.

This article is categorized under:

Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus‐Based Structures
Inter-study repeatability of circumferential strain and diastolic strain rate by CMR tagging, feature tracking and tissue tracking in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Nazir Sheraz A. , Shetye Abhishek M. , Khan Jamal N. , Singh Anvesha , Arnold Jayanth R. , Squire Iain , McCann Gerry P.
Published: March 2020

Strain assessment allows accurate evaluation of myocardial function and mechanics in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Strain using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) has traditionally been assessed with tagging but limitations of this technique have led to more widespread use of alternative methods, which may be more robust. We compared the inter-study repeatability of circumferential global peak-systolic strain (Ecc) and peak-early diastolic strain rate (PEDSR) derived by tagging with values obtained using novel cine-based software: Feature Tracking (FT) (TomTec, Germany) and Tissue Tracking (TT) (Circle cvi42, Canada) in patients following STEMI. Twenty male patients (mean age 56 ± 10 years, mean infarct size 13.7 ± 7.1% of left ventricular mass) were randomised to undergo CMR 1–5 days post-STEMI at 1.5 T or 3.0 T, repeated after ten minutes at the same field strength. Ecc and PEDSR were assessed using tagging, FT and TT. Inter-study repeatability was evaluated using Bland–Altman analyses, coefficients of variation (CoV) and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Ecc (%) was significantly lower with tagging than with FT or TT at 1.5 T (− 9.5 ± 3.3 vs. − 17.5 ± 3.8 vs. −15.5 ± 5.2, respectively, p < 0.001) and 3.0 T (− 13.1 ± 1.8 vs. − 19.4 ± 2.9 vs. − 17.3 ± 2.1, respectively, p = 0.001). This was similar for PEDSR (.s−1): 1.5 T (0.6 ± 0.2 vs. 1.5 ± 0.4 vs. 1.0 ± 0.4, for tagging, FT and TT respectively, p < 0.001) and 3.0 T (0.6 ± 0.2 vs. 1.5 ± 0.3 vs. 0.9 ± 0.3, respectively, p < 0.001). Inter-study repeatability for Ecc at 1.5 T was good for tagging and excellent for FT and TT: CoV 16.7%, 6.38%, and 8.65%, respectively. Repeatability for Ecc at 3.0 T was good for all three techniques: CoV 14.4%, 11.2%, and 13.0%, respectively. However, repeatability of PEDSR was generally lower than that for Ecc at 1.5 T (CoV 15.1%, 13.1%, and 34.0% for tagging, FT and TT, respectively) and 3.0 T (CoV 23.0%, 18.6%, and 26.2%, respectively). Following STEMI, Ecc and PEDSR are higher when measured with FT and TT than with tagging. Inter-study repeatability of Ecc is good for tagging, excellent for FT and TT at 1.5 T, and good for all three methods at 3.0 T. The repeatability of PEDSR is good to moderate at 1.5 T and moderate at 3.0 T. Cine-based methods to assess Ecc following STEMI may be preferable to tagging.
Designing conceptual articles: four approaches
Authors: Jaakkola Elina
Published: March 2020

As a powerful means of theory building, conceptual articles are increasingly called for in marketing academia. However, researchers struggle to design and write non-empirical articles because of the lack of commonly accepted templates to guide their development. The aim of this paper is to highlight methodological considerations for conceptual papers: it is argued that such papers must be grounded in a clear research design, and that the choice of theories and their role in the analysis must be explicated and justified. The paper discusses four potential templates for conceptual papers – Theory Synthesis, Theory Adaptation, Typology, and Model – and their respective aims, approach for using theories, and contribution potential. Supported by illustrative examples, these templates codify some of the tacit knowledge that underpins the design of non-empirical papers and will be of use to anyone undertaking, supervising, or reviewing conceptual research.
Characterizing the metric compactification of $$L_{p}$$ spaces by random measures
Authors: Gutiérrez Armando W.
Published: March 2020

We present a complete characterization of the metric compactification of$$L_{p}$$Lpspaces for$$1\le p < \infty $$1≤p<∞. Each element of the metric compactification of$$L_{p}$$Lpis represented by a random measure on a certain Polish space. By way of illustration, we revisit the$$L_{p}$$Lp-mean ergodic theorem for$$1< p < \infty $$1<p<∞, and Alspach’s example of an isometry on a weakly compact convex subset of$$L_{1}$$L1with no fixed points.
Radiocarbon Dating of Small-sized Foraminifer Samples: Insights into Marine sediment Mixing
Authors: Missiaen L , Wacker L , Lougheed B C , Skinner L , Hajdas I , Nouet J , Pichat S , Waelbroeck C
Published: March 2020

Radiocarbon (14C) can be used to build absolute chronologies and reconstruct ocean ventilation over the last 40 ka. Sample size requirements have restricted14C measurements in marine cores with low foraminifer content, impeding14C-based studies focused on abrupt climate events. Recent developments have demonstrated that small-sized foraminifer samples can now be dated using a gas introduction system at the cost of a small decrease in precision. We explore the potential of gas measurements on benthic and planktonic foraminifers from core SU90-08 (43°03′1″N, 30°02′5″W, 3080 m). Gas measurements are accurate, reproducible within 2σ uncertainty and comparable to graphite measurements. Both techniques yield negative14C benthic-planktonic (B-P) age-offsets after Heinrich event 1. We argue that negative B-P ages result from bioturbation and changes in foraminifer abundances, with the chance of negative B-P especially increased when the14C age gradient between the deep and surface waters is decreased. Small-sized14C measurements seem to capture the variance of the foraminifera age distribution, revealing the active mixing in those archives. Sediment deposition and mixing effects possibly pose a greater obstacle for past14C-based dating and ocean ventilation reconstructions than the measurement precision itself, particularly in relatively low sedimentation rate settings.
Social Isolation and Repertoires of Resistance
Authors: GADE EMILY KALAH
Published: March 2020

Checkpoints in the West Bank’s Hebron Governorate represent Israel’s ever-present power over Palestinian civilians. Drawing on 71 interviews conducted during the Intifada of Individuals (2015), this article inductively builds theory about the relationship between social isolation and different modalities of resistance. Rather than forcing civilians to comply with the state, checkpoint apparatus instead change the nature and texture of resistance. I suggest that checkpoints structure social connections for civilians on the ground. Checkpoint apparatus which inhibit social connection engender a feeling of hopelessness and foster support for individual, often violent, resistance. Where checkpoints isolate a community as a whole but did not disrupt within-community social connections, citizens maintain hope for the possibility of change, which facilitates a preference for collective resistance. This article identifies troubling consequences checkpoints have on civilians and highlights how oppressive state power can limit some modalities of resistance only to engender support for others.
Supplementation of natural prey with pollen grains exerts an influence on the life table parameters of Neoseiulus californicus
Authors: Soltaniyan Afsaneh , Kheradmand Katayoon , Fathipour Yaghoub , Shirdel Davoud
Published: March 2020

Better performance of generalist predators, as well as an increase in their density, may be an incentive factor in the ability of the predators to exploit more than one food item or mixed diets. In this study, the effects of four pollen grains (cedar, pear, apricot, and pistachio) when provided to Neoseiulus californicus in mixed diets with prey, Tetranychus urticae, were evaluated. The result indicated that the fastest female developmental time was observed on pistachio pollen + T. urticae, together with apricot pollen + T. urticae. Females reared on the mixed diet comprising pistachio pollen reflected the longest total life span duration, while the shortest total life span was observed in those on the diet that included pear pollen. Furthermore, the lowest fecundity, as well as the shortest reproduction period, was determined on the diets that included pear pollen, while the highest fecundity and the longest reproduction period were observed in pistachio pollen + T. urticae. In addition, the intrinsic (r) and finite rate of increase (λ), net (R0) and gross (GRR) reproductive rates were highest in pistachio pollen + T. urticae. These findings have important implications for developing a comprehensive biological control program of T. urticae, which will be discussed.
Aberrant salience and reward processing: a comparison of measures in schizophrenia and anxiety
Authors: Neumann Suzanne R. , Glue Paul , Linscott Richard J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Aberrant salience may contribute to the development of schizophrenia symptoms via alterations in reward processing and motivation. However, tests of this hypothesis have yielded inconsistent results. These inconsistencies may reflect problems with the validity and specificity of measures of aberrant salience in schizophrenia. Therefore, we investigated relationships among measures of aberrant salience, reward, and motivation in schizophrenia and anxiety.

Method

Individuals with schizophrenia (n = 30), anxiety (n = 33) or unaffected by mental disorder (n = 30) completed measures of aberrant salience [Aberrant Salience Inventory (ASI), Salience Attribution Test (SAT)], motivation (Effort Expenditure for Reward Task), and reinforcer sensitivity (Stimulus Chase Task).

Results

Schizophrenia participants scored higher than anxiety (d = 0.71) and unaffected (d = 1.54) groups on the ASI and exhibited greater aberrant salience (d = 0.60) and lower adaptive salience (d = 0.98) than anxious participants on the SAT. There was no evidence of a correlation between measures of aberrant salience. Schizophrenia was associated with related deficits in motivated behaviour and maladaptive reward processing. However, these differences in reward processing did not correlate with aberrant salience measures.

Conclusions

The results suggest that key measures of aberrant salience have limited specificity and validity. These problems may account for inconsistent findings reported in the literature.
Eye-movement benchmarks in Heritage Language reading
Authors: Parshina Olga , Laurinavichyute Anna K. , Sekerina Irina A.
Published: March 2020

This eye-tracking study establishes basic benchmarks of eye movements during reading in heritage language (HL) by Russian-speaking adults and adolescents of high (n = 21) and low proficiency (n = 27). Heritage speakers (HSs) read sentences in Cyrillic, and their eye movements were compared to those of Russian monolingual skilled adult readers, 8-year-old children and L2 learners. Reading patterns of HSs revealed longer mean fixation durations, lower skipping probabilities, and higher regressive saccade rates than in monolingual adults. High-proficient HSs were more similar to monolingual children, while low-proficient HSs performed on par with L2 learners. Low-proficient HSs differed from high-proficient HSs in exhibiting lower skipping probabilities, higher fixation counts, and larger frequency effects. Taken together, our findings are consistent with theweaker linksaccount of bilingual language processing as well as thedivergent attainmenttheory of HL.
Novel Applications of FIB-SEM-Based ToF-SIMS in Atom Probe Tomography Workflows
Authors: Rickard William D.A. , Reddy Steven M. , Saxey David W. , Fougerouse Denis , Timms Nicholas E. , Daly Luke , Peterman Emily , Cavosie Aaron J. , Jourdan Fred
Published: March 2020

Atom probe tomography (APT) is used to quantify atomic-scale elemental and isotopic compositional variations within a very small volume of material (typically <0.01µm3). The small analytical volume ideally contains specific compositional or microstructural targets that can be placed within the context of the previously characterized surface in order to facilitate a correct interpretation of APT data. In this regard, careful targeting and preparation are paramount to ensure that the desired target, which is often smaller than 100 nm, is optimally located within the APT specimen. Needle-shaped specimens required for atom probe analysis are commonly prepared using a focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM). Here, we utilize FIB-SEM-based time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) to illustrate a novel approach to targeting <100 nm compositional and isotopic variations that can be used for targeting regions of interest for subsequent lift-out and APT analysis. We present a new method for high-spatial resolution targeting of small features that involves using FIB-SEM-based electron deposition of platinum “buttons” prior to standard lift-out and sharpening procedures for atom probe specimen manufacture. In combination, FIB-ToF-SIMS analysis and application of the “button” method ensure that even the smallest APT targets can be successfully captured in extracted needles.
No effect of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic parameters but on	lipids in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney	disease
Authors: Kim Jiwoon , Nam Ji Sun , Kim Heejung , Lee Hye Sun , Lee Jung Eun
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Background/Aims: Trials on the effects of cholecalciferol supplementation in type 2 diabetes with chronic kidney disease patients were underexplored. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two different doses of vitamin D supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and metabolic parameters in vitamin D-deficient Korean diabetes patients with chronic kidney disease. Methods: 92 patients completed this study: the placebo group (A, n = 33), the oral cholecalciferol 1,000 IU/day group (B, n = 34), or the single 200,000 IU injection group (C, n = 25, equivalent to 2,000 IU/day). 52% of the patients had less than 60 mL/min/1.73m2 of glomerular filtration rates. Laboratory test and pulse wave velocity were performed before and after supplementation. Results: After 12 weeks, serum 25(OH)D concentrations of the patients who received vitamin D supplementation were significantly increased (A, -2.4 ± 1.2 ng/mL vs. B, 10.7 ± 1.2 ng/mL vs. C, 14.6 ± 1.7 ng/mL; p < 0.001). In addition, the lipid profiles in the vitamin D injection group (C) showed a significant decrease in triglyceride and a rise in HDL cholesterol. However, the other parameters showed no differences. Conclusions: Our data indicated that two different doses and routes of vitamin D administration significantly and safely increased serum 25(OH)D concentrations in vitamin D-deficient diabetes patients with comorbid chronic kidney disease. In the group that received the higher vitamin D dose, the lipid profiles showed significant improvement, but there were no beneficial effects on other metabolic parameters.
Shared genetic etiology underlying Alzheimer’s disease and major depressive disorder
Authors: Lutz Michael W. , Sprague Daniel , Barrera Julio , Chiba-Falek Ornit
Published: March 2020

Patients with late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) frequently manifest comorbid neuropsychiatric symptoms with depression and anxiety being most frequent, and individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) have an increased prevalence of LOAD. This suggests shared etiologies and intersecting pathways between LOAD and MDD. We performed pleiotropy analyses using LOAD and MDD GWAS data sets from the International Genomics of Alzheimer’s Project (IGAP) and the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC), respectively. We found a moderate enrichment for SNPs associated with LOAD across increasingly stringent levels of significance with the MDD GWAS association (LOAD|MDD), of maximum four and eightfolds, including and excluding the APOE-region, respectively. Association analysis excluding the APOE-region identified numerous SNPs corresponding to 40 genes, 9 of which are known LOAD-risk loci primarily in chromosome 11 regions that contain the SPI1 gene and MS4A genes cluster, and others were novel pleiotropic risk-loci for LOAD conditional with MDD. The most significant associated SNPs on chromosome 11 overlapped with eQTLs found in whole-blood and monocytes, suggesting functional roles in gene regulation. The reverse conditional association analysis (MDD|LOAD) showed a moderate level, ~sevenfold, of polygenic overlap, however, no SNP showed significant association. Pathway analyses replicated previously reported LOAD biological pathways related to immune response and regulation of endocytosis. In conclusion, we provide insights into the overlapping genetic signatures underpinning the common phenotypic manifestations and inter-relationship between LOAD and MDD. This knowledge is crucial to the development of actionable targets for novel therapies to treat depression preceding dementia, in an effort to delay or ultimately prevent the onset of LOAD.
miR-143 promotes angiogenesis and osteoblast differentiation by targeting HDAC7
Authors: Wang Renkai , Zhang Hao , Ding Wenbin , Fan Zhenyu , Ji Boyao , Ding Chen , Ji Fang , Tang Hao
Published: March 2020

The regulation of bone formation and detailed mechanisms are still largely elusive, and the roles of microRNAs in this process have attracted much attention. Recently, a specific subtype of CD31hiendomucinhi (CD31hiEMCNhi) endothelium has been identified to promote bone formation, together with osteoblast development. However, the role of microRNA143 in the generation of CD31hi EMCNhi endothelium and bone formation remains unknown. In this study, we found that miR-143 was expressed both in osteoblast cells and CD31hiEMCNhi endothelial cells. Serum miR-143 level was negatively correlated with age in humans. Overexpression of miR-143 promoted osteoblast formation and angiogenic effects. Furthermore, CD31hiEmcnhi vessels and osteoblast formation were significantly inhibited in miR-143 knockout mice. Mechanistically, inhibitor HDAC7 was directly targeted by miR-143 and knockdown of HDAC7 was found to rescue the function of miR-143 deficiency. Thus, miR-143 promotes angiogenesis coupling with osteoblast differentiation by targeting HDAC7, which may serve as a potential target in angiogenic and osteogenic diseases.
A national-scale data set for dissolved carbon and its spatial pattern in lakes and reservoirs across China
Authors: Wen Zhidan , Song Kaishan , Lyu Lili , Fang Chong , Shang Yingxin , Liu Ge , Du Jia
Published: March 2020

A dissolved carbon (DC) data set, including dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), from 224 lakes (513 stations) and 141 large reservoirs (337 stations) across China is presented in this study. In addition to DC, the data set also includes results for electrical conductivity (EC), total phosphorus (TP), chlorophyll-a and transparency. The impact of trophic status and EC gradient on DC concentration in water bodies are discussed. Results from our investigation indicate that DC in saline (EC > 1000 μS cm−1) water bodies (mean ± S.D, 297.13 ± 356.14 mg L−1, n = 186) are much higher than those in fresh water bodies (79.55 ± 199.34 mg L−1, n = 669). Similarly, eutrophic water bodies (n = 552) exhibited higher DC concentrations than mesotrophic (n = 215) and oligotrophic water bodies (n = 85); DC in lakes (158.445 ± 286.52 mg L−1, n = 513) was significantly higher than DC in reservoirs (37.83 ± 37.53 mg L−1, n = 337). All data used in this investigation is accessible online.
Dependence of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on cell cycle and dry mass: a single-cell study using a multi-modal radiography platform
Authors: Sung Yongjin , Tetrault Marc-Andre , Takahashi Kazue , Ouyang Jinsong , Pratx Guillem , Fakhri Georges El , Normandin Marc D.
Published: March 2020

High glucose uptake by cancer compared to normal tissues has long been utilized in fluorodeoxyglucose-based positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) as a contrast mechanism. The FDG uptake rate has been further related to the proliferative potential of cancer, specifically the proliferation index (PI) − the proportion of cells in S, G2 or M phases. The underlying hypothesis was that the cells preparing for cell division would consume more energy and metabolites as building blocks for biosynthesis. Despite the wide clinical use, mixed reports exist in the literature on the relationship between FDG uptake and PI. This may be due to the large variation in cancer types or methods adopted for the measurements. Of note, the existing methods can only measure the average properties of a tumor mass or cell population with highly-heterogeneous constituents. In this study, we have built a multi-modal live-cell radiography system and measured the [18F]FDG uptake by single HeLa cells together with their dry mass and cell cycle phase. The results show that HeLa cells take up twice more [18F]FDG in S, G2 or M phases than in G1 phase, which confirms the association between FDG uptake and PI at a single-cell level. Importantly, we show that [18F]FDG uptake and cell dry mass have a positive correlation in HeLa cells, which suggests that high [18F]FDG uptake in S, G2 or M phases can be largely attributed to increased dry mass, rather than the activities preparing for cell division. This interpretation is consistent with recent observations that the energy required for the preparation of cell division is much smaller than that for maintaining house-keeping proteins.
Using Nanochelating Technology for Biofortification and Yield Increase in Rice
Authors: Fakharzadeh Saideh , Hafizi Maryam , Baghaei Mohammad Ali , Etesami Maral , Khayamzadeh Maryam , Kalanaky Somayeh , Akbari Mohammad Esmaeil , Nazaran Mohammad Hassan
Published: March 2020

Iron is a vital microelement that plays an important role in plant metabolism. Consuming a large amount of chemical fertilizers increases the risk factors of neoplastic diseases such as heavy metals and harmful components in crops edible parts. Therefore, utilizing novel technologies to increase yields without requiring more chemical fertilizers seems essential. In this regard, nanotechnology holds considerable potentials for creating valuable outputs in agriculture. The effect of nano chelated iron fertilizer, which is synthesized based on novel nanochelating technology, on agronomic traits and yield of rice were evaluated in the present study. A randomized complete block experiment was conducted with 3 replicates. The treatments were: T0 (control), T1 (2.5 g/L foliar application twice at nursery with a one-week interval), T2 (foliar application at tillering + T1), T3 (foliar application at booting + T1), T4 (foliar application at tillering and booting + T1), T5 (8 kg/ha soil application at tillering + T1), T6 (8 kg/ha soil application at booting + T1), T7 (4 kg/ha soil application at tillering + 4 kg/ha soil application at booting + T1). Nano chelated iron fertilizer increased biological yield by 27% and decreased hollow grain number by 254%; in addition, it raised protein content by 13%. This fertilizer also led to increase in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc concentrations in white rice by 46%, 43%, 41%, 25% and 50%, respectively. Nanochelating technology can decrease the need for chemical fertilizers; additionally, this technology has the capability to bio-fortify crops with vital micronutrients.
The effects of seasonal climate variability on dengue annual incidence in Hong Kong: A modelling study
Authors: Yuan Hsiang-Yu , Liang Jingbo , Lin Pei-Sheng , Sucipto Kathleen , Tsegaye Mesfin Mengesha , Wen Tzai-Hung , Pfeiffer Susanne , Pfeiffer Dirk
Published: March 2020

In recent years, dengue has been rapidly spreading and growing in the tropics and subtropics. Located in southern China, Hong Kong’s subtropical monsoon climate may favour dengue vector populations and increase the chance of disease transmissions during the rainy summer season. An increase in local dengue incidence has been observed in Hong Kong ever since the first case in 2002, with an outbreak reaching historically high case numbers in 2018. However, the effects of seasonal climate variability on recent outbreaks are unknown. As the local cases were found to be spatially clustered, we developed a Poisson generalized linear mixed model using pre-summer monthly total rainfall and mean temperature to predict annual dengue incidence (the majority of local cases occur during or after the summer months), over the period 2002-2018 in three pre-defined areas of Hong Kong. Using leave-one-out cross-validation, 5 out of 6 observations of area-specific outbreaks during the major outbreak years 2002 and 2018 were able to be predicted. 42 out of a total of 51 observations (82.4%) were within the 95% confidence interval of the annual incidence predicted by our model. Our study found that the rainfall before and during the East Asian monsoon (pre-summer) rainy season is negatively correlated with the annual incidence in Hong Kong while the temperature is positively correlated. Hence, as mosquito control measures in Hong Kong are intensified mainly when heavy rainfalls occur during or close to summer, our study suggests that a lower-than-average intensity of pre-summer rainfall should also be taken into account as an indicator of increased dengue risk.
The association between fear extinction, the ability to accomplish exposure and exposure therapy outcome in specific phobia
Authors: Raeder Friederike , Merz Christian J. , Margraf Jürgen , Zlomuzica Armin
Published: March 2020

Great interest exists in maximizing exposure therapy efficacy in anxiety disorders. At the same time, reduced frequency and shortened duration of exposure sessions are required to meet the specific regularities in routine care settings. Extinction has emerged as the key mechanism of exposure treatment in anxiety disorders. Examining exposure treatment processes from the perspective of extinction learning might provide novel insights into variability in exposure treatment duration and outcome. The present study sought to examine the functional link between fear extinction, the ability to accomplish exposure in a predetermined time and exposure therapy outcome in specific phobia. Treatment-seeking individuals (N = 53) with spider phobia underwent a context-dependent fear conditioning paradigm prior to a standardized exposure. Spider-phobic participants who were able to complete exposure within the pre-determined time (i.e., completers) showed a more pronounced short- and long-term exposure therapy benefit. In the fear conditioning task, a more pronounced decline in CS-US contingency ratings during extinction (retrieval) was found in completers relative to non-completers. The failure to further extinguish US expectancy to the CSs in non-completers might offer a potential mechanistic explanation why non-completers have difficulties to accomplish all exposure steps in a fixed time and show less pronounced treatment gains. Our findings bear specific implications for the implementation of exposure treatment to routine care settings.
Spatiotemporal dynamics and quantitative analysis of phytoplasmas in insect vectors
Authors: Koinuma Hiroaki , Maejima Kensaku , Tokuda Ryosuke , Kitazawa Yugo , Nijo Takamichi , Wei Wei , Kumita Kohei , Miyazaki Akio , Namba Shigetou , Yamaji Yasuyuki
Published: March 2020

Phytoplasmas are transmitted by insect vectors in a persistent propagative manner; however, detailed movements and multiplication patterns of phytoplasmas within vectors remain elusive. In this study, spatiotemporal dynamics of onion yellows (OY) phytoplasma in its vectorMacrosteles striifronswere investigated by immunohistochemistry-based 3D imaging, whole-mount fluorescence staining, and real-time quantitative PCR. The results indicated that OY phytoplasmas entered the anterior midgut epithelium by seven days after acquisition start (daas), then moved to visceral muscles surrounding the midgut and to the hemocoel at 14–21 daas; finally, OY phytoplasmas entered into type III cells of salivary glands at 21–28 daas. The anterior midgut of the alimentary canal and type III cells of salivary glands were identified as the major sites of OY phytoplasma infection. Fluorescence staining further revealed that OY phytoplasmas spread along the actin-based muscle fibers of visceral muscles and accumulated on the surfaces of salivary gland cells. This accumulation would be important for phytoplasma invasion into salivary glands, and thus for successful insect transmission. This study demonstrates the spatiotemporal dynamics of phytoplasmas in insect vectors. The findings from this study will aid in understanding of the underlying mechanism of insect-borne plant pathogen transmission.