bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuronal cell fate diversification controlled by sub-temporal action of Kruppel
Authors: Stratmann Johannes , Gabilondo Hugo , Benito-Sipos Jonathan , Thor Stefan
Published: October 2016

During Drosophila embryonic nervous system development, neuroblasts express a programmed cascade of five temporal transcription factors that govern the identity of cells generated at different time-points. However, these five temporal genes fall short of accounting for the many distinct cell types generated in large lineages. Here, we find that the late temporal gene castor sub-divides its large window in neuroblast 5–6 by simultaneously activating two cell fate determination cascades and a sub-temporal regulatory program. The sub-temporal program acts both upon itself and upon the determination cascades to diversify the castor window. Surprisingly, the early temporal gene Kruppel acts as one of the sub-temporal genes within the late castor window. Intriguingly, while the temporal gene castor activates the two determination cascades and the sub-temporal program, spatial cues controlling cell fate in the latter part of the 5–6 lineage exclusively act upon the determination cascades.
Re-utilization of a transcription factor
Authors: Pinto-Teixeira Filipe , Desplan Claude
Published: October 2016

The temporal transcription factor Krüppel has a dual role in the development of neurons.
Improvement of device performance and instability of tungsten-doped InZnO thin-film transistor with respect to doping concentration
Authors: Park Hyun-Woo , Song AeRan , Kwon Sera , Du Ahn Byung , Chung Kwun-Bum
Published: October 2016

W-doped InZnO (WIZO) thin-film transistors (TFTs) were fabricated by co-sputtering with different W doping concentrations. We varied the W doping concentration to change the device performance and stability of the WIZO TFTs. WIZO TFTs with a W doping concentration of ∼1.1% showed the lowest threshold voltage shift and hysteresis. We correlated the device characteristics with the evolution of the electronic structure, such as band alignment, chemical bonding states, and band edge states. As the W doping concentration increased, the oxygen-deficient bonding states and W suboxidation states decreased, while the conduction-band offset and the incorporation of the WO
x
electronic structure into the conduction band increased.
Electronic structure modulation of graphene edges by chemical functionalization
Authors: Taira Remi , Yamanaka Ayaka , Okada Susumu
Published: October 2016

Using the density functional theory with the effective screening medium method, we study the electronic properties of graphene nanoribbons with zigzag edges that are terminated by hydrogen and ketone, hydroxyl, carbonyl, and carboxyl functional groups. Our calculations showed that the work function and electronic structures of the edges of the nanoribbons are sensitive to the functional groups attached to the edges. The nearly free electron state emerges in the vacuum region outside the hydroxylated edges and crosses the Fermi level, indicating the possibility of negative electron affinity at the edges.
Sonographic Differentiation Between Angiolipomas and Superficial Lipomas
Authors: Shin Yoon Sang , Kim Yeo Ju , Park In Suh , Chu Young Chae , Kim Jun Ho , Lee Ha Young , Lee Kyung Hee , Kang Young Hye
Published: October 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare the sonographic findings of angio lipomas with those of superficial lipomas.

Methods

Preoperative sonograms of 26 angiolipomas from 18 patients and 47 superficial lipomas from 43 patients that were confirmed by biopsy were reviewed retrospectively. The echo texture, echogenicity, internal echogenic stranding, vascularity, visualization of lateral and superficial‐deep tumor capsules, shape, and tumor length, width, and length‐to‐width ratio were evaluated and compared between angiolipomas and superficial lipomas.

Results

Angiolipomas frequently appeared as heterogeneous (19 of 26 [73.1%]), hyperechoic (23 of 26 [88.5%]), and ovoid (17 of 26 [65.4%]) masses with lesser visualized lateral tumor capsules (6 of 26 [23.1%]), whereas superficial lipomas appeared as homogeneous (36 of 47 [76.6%]), isoechoic (35 of 47 [74.5%]), and spindle‐shaped (23 of 47 [48.9%]) masses with well‐visualized lateral capsules (33 of 47 [70.2%]), and the differences were statistically significant (P < .001). Vascularity was seen in 4 angiolipomas (16.7%) and in no superficial lipomas (0%). The mean length and width ± SD of angiolipomas (2.2 ± 1.02 and 0.6 ± 0.27 cm, respectively) were smaller than those of superficial lipomas (4.2 ± 1.52 and 1.1 ± 0.51 cm), with statistical significance (P< .001). The other sonographic findings did not reveal statistically significant differences between the tumor types.

Conclusions

Sonography might help differentiate angiolipomas from superficial lipomas.
Hematopoietic stem cell‐independent hematopoiesis: emergence of erythroid, megakaryocyte, and myeloid potential in the mammalian embryo
Authors: Palis James
Published: October 2016

Steady‐state production of all circulating blood cells in the adult ultimately depends on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which first arise in small numbers beginning at embryonic day (E) 10.5 in large arterial vessels of the murine embryo. However, blood cell synthesis first begins in the yolk sac beginning at E7.25 and consists of two waves of hematopoietic progenitors. The first wave consists of primitive erythroid, megakaryocyte, and macrophage progenitors that rapidly give rise to maturing blood cells of all three lineages. This ‘primitive’ wave of progenitors is followed by a partially overlapping wave of ‘erythro‐myeloid progenitors’, which contain definitive erythroid, megakaryocyte, macrophage, neutrophil, and mast cell progenitors that seed the fetal liver and jump‐start hematopoiesis before the engraftment and expansion of HSCs. These two waves of progenitors that arise in the yolk sac are necessary and even sufficient to sustain the survival of the mouse embryo until birth in the absence of HSCs. They provide key signals to support HSC emergence. Finally, HSC‐independent hematopoiesis also provides long‐lived tissue‐resident macrophage populations that function in multiple adult organs.
Miocene high‐elevation landscape of the eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xu Qiang , Liu Xiaohui , Ding Lin
Published: October 2016

The high topography of central Asia is the most distinctive expression of the India‐Asia collision, yet a broad understanding of the timing and processes involved in the development of the Tibetan Plateau remains elusive. Here we investigate the Neogene Songpan Basin located on the eastern margin of the plateau using oxygen isotope paleoaltimetry to determine when the steep Longmen Shan margin obtained its present elevations. Hydrologically open lacustrine and fluvial‐alluvial authigenic carbonates from the basin record the paleoelevations of the eastern Tibetan Plateau and suggest that the area has attained near‐present elevations of ∼3000 m by the late Miocene. This reconstruction is consistent with the results from the comparison of pollen fossils to their nearest living relatives in this area (2750–3050 m). We propose that the eastern Tibetan Plateau may have attained significant elevations prior to the late Miocene through an uplift scenario involving eastward growth of the plateau between the Eocene and the Miocene. Two tectonic processes, either crustal shortening in the Oligocene‐Miocene or eastward propagation of weakened lower crust starting in the Eocene, most likely thickened the crust and raised the surface of the eastern Tibetan Plateau to its present elevation by the late Miocene.
Crustal magma pathway beneath Aso caldera inferred from three‐dimensional electrical resistivity structure
Authors: Hata Maki , Takakura Shinichi , Matsushima Nobuo , Hashimoto Takeshi , Utsugi Mitsuru
Published: October 2016

At Naka‐dake cone, Aso caldera, Japan, volcanic activity is raised cyclically, an example of which was a phreatomagmatic eruption in September 2015. Using a three‐dimensional model of electrical resistivity, we identify a magma pathway from a series of northward dipping conductive anomalies in the upper crust beneath the caldera. Our resistivity model was created from magnetotelluric measurements conducted in November–December 2015; thus, it provides the latest information about magma reservoir geometry beneath the caldera. The center of the conductive anomalies shifts from the north of Naka‐dake at depths >10 km toward Naka‐dake, along with a decrease in anomaly depths. The melt fraction is estimated at 13–15% at ~2 km depth. Moreover, these anomalies are spatially correlated with the locations of earthquake clusters, which are distributed within resistive blocks on the conductive anomalies in the northwest of Naka‐dake but distributed at the resistive sides of resistivity boundaries in the northeast.
Coseismic slip and afterslip of the 2015 Mw 8.3 Illapel (Chile) earthquake determined from continuous GPS data
Authors: Shrivastava Mahesh N. , González Gabriel , Moreno Marcos , Chlieh Mohamed , Salazar Pablo , Reddy C. D. , Báez Juan Carlos , Yáñez Gonzalo , González Juan , de la Llera Juan Carlos
Published: October 2016

We analyzed the coseismic and early postseismic deformation of the 2015, Mw 8.3 Illapel earthquake by inverting 13 continuous GPS time series. The seismic rupture concentrated in a shallow (<20 km depth) and 100 km long asperity, which slipped up to 8 m, releasing a seismic moment of 3.6 × 1021 Nm (Mw = 8.3). After 43 days, postseismic afterslip encompassed the coseismic rupture. Afterslip concentrated in two main patches of 0.50 m between 20 and 40 km depth along the northern and southern ends of the rupture, partially overlapping the coseismic slip. Afterslip and aftershocks confined to region of positive Coulomb stress change, promoted by the coseismic slip. The early postseismic afterslip was accommodated ~53% aseismically and ~47% seismically by aftershocks. The Illapel earthquake rupture is confined by two low interseismic coupling zones, which coincide with two major features of the subducting Nazca Plate, the Challenger Fault Zone and Juan Fernandez Ridge.
Global warming projection in the 21st century based on an observational data‐driven model
Authors: Zeng Xubin , Geil Kerrie
Published: October 2016

Global warming has been projected primarily by Earth system models (ESMs). Complementary to this approach, here we provide the decadal and long‐term global warming projections based on an observational data‐driven model. This model combines natural multidecadal variability with anthropogenic warming that depends on the history of annual emissions. It shows good skill in decadal hindcasts with the recent warming slowdown well captured. While our ensemble mean temperature projections at the end of 21st century are consistent with those from ESMs, our decadal warming projection of 0.35 (0.30‐0.43) K from 1986–2005 to 2016–2035 is within their projection range and only two‐thirds of the ensemble mean from ESMs. Our predicted warming rate in the next few years is slower than in the 1980s and 1990s, followed by a greater warming rate. Our projection uncertainty range is just one‐third of that from ESMs, and its implication is also discussed.
Statistical survey of nighttime midlatitude magnetic fluctuations: Their source location and Poynting flux as derived from the Swarm constellation
Authors: Park Jaeheung , Lühr Hermann , Stolle Claudia , Rodriguez‐Zuluaga Juan , Knudsen David J. , Burchill Johnathan K. , Kwak Young‐Sil
Published: October 2016

This is the first statistical survey of field fluctuations related with medium‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs), which considers magnetic field, electric field, and plasma density variations at the same time. Midlatitude electric fluctuations (MEFs) and midlatitude magnetic fluctuations (MMFs) observed in the nighttime topside ionosphere have generally been attributed to MSTIDs. Although the topic has been studied for several decades, statistical studies of the Poynting flux related with MEF/MMF/MSTID have not yet been conducted. In this study we make use of electric/magnetic field and plasma density observations by the European Space Agency's Swarm constellation to address the statistical behavior of the Poynting flux. We have found that (1) the Poynting flux is directed mainly from the summer to winter hemisphere, (2) its magnitude is larger before midnight than thereafter, and (3) the magnitude is not well correlated with fluctuation level of in situ plasma density. These results are discussed in the context of previous studies.
Validating reconstruction of snow water equivalent in California's Sierra Nevada using measurements from the NASAAirborne Snow Observatory
Authors: Bair Edward H. , Rittger Karl , Davis Robert E. , Painter Thomas H. , Dozier Jeff
Published: October 2016

Accurately estimating basin‐wide snow water equivalent (SWE) is the most important unsolved problem in mountain hydrology. Models that rely on remotely sensed inputs are especially needed in ranges with few surface measurements. The NASA Airborne Snow Observatory (ASO) provides estimates of SWE at 50 m spatial resolution in several basins across the Western U.S. during the melt season. Primarily, water managers use this information to forecast snowmelt runoff into reservoirs; another impactful use of ASO measurements lies in validating and improving satellite‐based snow estimates or models that can scale to whole mountain ranges, even those without ground‐based measurements. We compare ASO measurements from 2013 to 2015 to four methods that estimate spatially distributed SWE: two versions of a SWE reconstruction method, spatial interpolation from snow pillows and courses, and NOAA's Snow Data Assimilation System (SNODAS). SWE reconstruction downscales energy forcings to compute potential melt, then multiplies those values by satellite‐derived estimates of fractional snow‐covered area to calculate snowmelt. The snowpack is then built in reverse from the date the snow is observed to disappear. The two SWE reconstruction models tested include one that employs an energy balance calculation of snowmelt, and one that combines net radiation and degree‐day approaches to estimate melt. Our full energy balance model, without ground observations, performed slightly better than spatial interpolation from snow pillows, having no systematic bias and 26% mean absolute error when compared to SWE from ASO. Both reconstruction models and interpolation were more accurate than SNODAS.
The Potential for False Memories is Bigger than What Brewin and Andrews Suggest
Authors: Otgaar Henry , Merckelbach Harald , Jelicic Marko , Smeets Tom
Published: October 2016

Brewin and Andrews (2016) reviewed the literature on false memory propensity for childhood events. In this commentary, we critically evaluate their basic claim that proneness to false memories of childhood experiences is more limited than has been articulated in the literature. We show that Brewin and Andrews were selective in their inclusion of false memory studies, thereby ignoring relevant research related to autobiographical false memories. Equally important, and in contrast to what Brewin and Andrews claim, we show that implanted false memories elicited by misinformation are characterized by high confidence. © 2016 The Authors Applied Cognitive Psychology Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Dangerously Neglecting Courtroom Realities
Authors: Smeets Tom , Merckelbach Harald , Jelicic Marko , Otgaar Henry
Published: October 2016

Brewin and Andrews recently argued that expert witnesses should be cautious when informing the legal arena about the potential for false memories. We argue that memory researchers—whose studies often were inspired by miscarriages of justice due to erroneous statements provided by witnesses, victims, or defendants—can and should emphasize the base rates of false memories. After all, even if Brewin and Andrews' estimate of 15% is an accurate higher bound estimate of false memories in real life cases, neglecting the science of false memories could lead to many more unnecessary miscarriages of justice. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Invited commentary on Brewin and Andrews (2016)
Authors: Scoboria Alan , Mazzoni Giuliana
Published: October 2016

Brewin and Andrews (2016) make many cogent observations on the state of knowledge about the development of false autobiographical beliefs and false recollections. Owing to inconsistent use of terminology and imprecise definitions, the framework they propose does not clearly map onto the studies that are summarized, making the resulting estimates of the magnitude of effects across studies unconvincing. A singular focus on the development of ‘full memories’ is not explained, and the key role of autobiographical belief in influencing behavior is underemphasized. Furthermore, the legal applications discussed are not well defined and are limited in scope. Fostering false belief or false imagery for events such as childhood abuse is unacceptable, whether or not suggested events come to be experienced as vivid believed recollections. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Commentary on Brewin and Andrews
Authors: Lindsay D. Stephen , Hyman Ira E.
Published: October 2016

Brewin and Andrews (2016) reviewed the literature on false memories of autobiographical events, discussed those findings in the context of theoretical accounts of autobiographical memory, and concluded that no more than 15% of people exposed to suggestive influences come to develop robust false memories of significant childhood events. We note several points on which we agree with Brewin and Andrews. But we also take issue with their review and their conclusions. The likelihood of false memories depends on interactions among numerous variables, and psychology is far short of the degree of theoretical precision required to specify any upper limit. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
False Memories in the Laboratory and in Life: Commentary on Brewin and Andrews (2016)
Authors: McNally Richard J.
Published: October 2016

Reviewing laboratory experiments, Brewin and Andrews (this issue) conclude that memory implantation techniques induce full‐blown false autobiographical memories in only 15% of subjects. Does this imply that guided imagery and related methods are unlikely to generate false memories of childhood sexual abuse in adult psychiatric patients? Not necessarily. Although these methods alone may seldom produce false memories, additional factors common in clinical settings are likely to amplify their capacity to do so in psychiatric patients (e.g., belief that repressed memories of trauma can cause symptoms; belief that these methods can recover repressed memories; high scores on dissociation measures). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inverse Magnetostrictive Effect in Fe29Co71 Wire/Polymer Composites
Authors: Narita Fumio
Published: October 2016

Wearable Internet of Things devices require innovatively designed electromagnetic materials and energy harvesting technology that is lightweight and able to withstand vigorous exercise and impact. In this study, magnetostrictive wire/polymer composites are developed for the first time by embedding Fe–Co wires in an epoxy matrix, and their inverse magnetostrictive characteristics are studied. The output voltage of this novel composite due to compression dramatically increases with increasing stress‐rate. Synthesis of the Fe–Co wire‐based composite may induce tensile prestress (rather than compressive prestress) during curing, leading to an extraordinary inverse magnetostriction enhancement. This work opens the door for development of lightweight, robust, and efficient energy harvesting devices.
Highly Stable Three Lithium Insertion in Thin V2O5 Shells on Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofiber Arrays for Ultrahigh‐Capacity Lithium Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Brown Emery , Acharya Jagaran , Pandey Gaind P. , Wu Judy , Li Jun
Published: October 2016

Here the authors demonstrate an approach to achieving stable 3 Li+ insertion into vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) by implementing a 3D core–shell structure consisting of coaxial V2O5 shells sputter‐coated on vertically aligned carbon nanofiber cores. The hydrated amorphous microporous structure in the “as‐deposited” V2O5 shells and the particulated nanocrystalline V2O5 structure formed by thermal annealing are compared. The former provides remarkably high capacities of 360 and 547 mAh g−1 in the voltage range of 4.0–2.0 and 4.0–1.5 V, respectively, far exceeding values in current oxide‐based lithium ion battery cathodes and even the corresponding theoretical values of 294 mAh g−1 for 2 Li+/V2O5 insertion and 441 mAh g−1 for 3 Li+/V2O5 insertion into crystalline V2O5 materials. This is attributed to the additional reactions with the hydrated amorphous structure. After 100 cycles of 3 Li+/V2O5 insertion/extraction at 0.20 A g−1 (≈C/3), ≈84% of the initial capacity is retained. After thermal annealing, the core–shell structure presents a capacity of 294 and 390 mAh g−1, matching well with the theoretical values for 2 and 3 Li+/V2O5 insertion. The annealed sample shows further improved stability, with a remarkable capacity retention of ≈100% and ≈88% for 100 cycles of 2 and 3 Li+/V2O5 insertion/extraction.
Morphological, Mechanical, and Thermal Characterization of Poly(Lactic Acid)/Cellulose Multifilament Fibers Prepared by Melt Spinning
Authors: Aouat Tassadit , Kaci Mustapha , Devaux Eric , Campagne Christine , Cayla Aurélie , Dumazert Loic , Lopez‐Cuesta José‐Marie
Published: October 2016

In this study, multifilament fibers based on neat poly(lactic acid) (PLA), PLA/cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWs), and PLA/cellulose microcrystalline (MCC) loaded at 1 and 3 wt.% were prepared by melt‐spinning process in the presence of PLA‐grafted maleic anhydride (PLA‐g‐MA) used as the compatibilizer and PEG as the plasticizer. This study showed that the incorporation of MCC in PLA matrix whatever the loading rate was not suitable for multifilament fibers spinning compared with CNW, due to the restricted drawability and a poor dispersion of the MCC within the PLA matrix. Furthermore, the whole characterization studies indicated that the incorporation of 1 wt.% of CNW in PLA with addition of the compatibilizer led to better thermal stability, flame retardancy, and multifilament tensile properties compared with neat PLA and with other filled PLA multifilament fibers.
Process intensification of gas–liquid downflow and upflow packed beds by a new low‐shear rotating reactor concept
Authors: Motamed Dashliborun Amir , Härting Hans‐Ulrich , Schubert Markus , Larachi Faïçal
Published: October 2016

In the present work, a new low‐shear rotating reactor concept was introduced for process intensification of heterogeneous catalytic reactions in cocurrent gas–liquid downflow and upflow packed‐bed reactors. To properly assess potential advantages of this new reactor concept, exhaustive hydrodynamic experiments were carried out using embedded low‐intrusive wire mesh sensors. The effect of the rotational velocity on liquid flow patterns in the bed cross‐section, liquid saturation, pressure drop, and regime transition was investigated. Furthermore, liquid residence time and Péclet number estimated by a stimulus‐response technique and a macro‐mixing model were presented and discussed with respect to the prevailing flow patterns. The results revealed that the column rotation induces different flow patterns in the cross‐section of the packed bed operating in a concurrent downflow or upflow mode. Moreover, the new reactor concept exhibits a more flexible adjustment of pressure drop, liquid saturation, liquid residence time, and back‐mixing at constant flow rates. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 283–294, 2017
The use of biomarkers to describe plasma‐, red cell‐, and blood volume from a simple blood test
Authors: Lobigs Louisa Margit , Sottas Pierre‐Edouard , Bourdon Pitre Collier , Nikolovski Zoran , El‐Gingo Mohamed , Varamenti Evdokia , Peeling Peter , Dawson Brian , Schumacher Yorck Olaf
Published: October 2016

Plasma volume and red cell mass are key health markers used to monitor numerous disease states, such as heart failure, kidney disease, or sepsis. Nevertheless, there is currently no practically applicable method to easily measure absolute plasma or red cell volumes in a clinical setting. Here, a novel marker for plasma volume and red cell mass was developed through analysis of the observed variability caused by plasma volume shifts in common biochemical measures, selected based on their propensity to present with low variations over time. Once a month for 6 months, serum and whole blood samples were collected from 33 active males. Concurrently, the CO‐rebreathing method was applied to determine target levels of hemoglobin mass (HbM) and blood volumes. The variability of 18 common chemistry markers and 27 Full Blood Count variables was investigated and matched to the observed plasma volume variation. After the removal of between‐subject variations using a Bayesian model, multivariate analysis identified two sets of 8 and 15 biomarkers explaining 68% and 69% of plasma volume variance, respectively. The final multiparametric model contains a weighting function to allow for isolated abnormalities in single biomarkers. This proof‐of‐concept investigation describes a novel approach to estimate absolute vascular volumes, with a simple blood test. Despite the physiological instability of critically ill patients, it is hypothesized the model, with its multiparametric approach and weighting function, maintains the capacity to describe vascular volumes. This model has potential to transform volume management in clinical settings. Am. J. Hematol. 92:62–67, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ehlers–Danlos syndrome with lethal cardiac valvular dystrophy in males carrying a novel splice mutation in FLNA
Authors: Ritelli Marco , Morlino Silvia , Giacopuzzi Edoardo , Carini Giulia , Cinquina Valeria , Chiarelli Nicola , Majore Silvia , Colombi Marina , Castori Marco
Published: October 2016

Filamin A is an X‐linked, ubiquitous actin‐binding protein whose mutations are associated to multiple disorders with limited genotype–phenotype correlations. While gain‐of‐function mutations cause various bone dysplasias, loss‐of‐function variants are the most common cause of periventricular nodular heterotopias with variable soft connective tissue involvement, as well as X‐linked cardiac valvular dystrophy (XCVD). The term “Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) with periventricular heterotopias” has been used in females with neurological, cardiovascular, integument and joint manifestations, but this nosology is still a matter of debate. We report the clinical and molecular update of an Italian family with an X‐linked recessive soft connective tissue disorder and which was described, in 1975, as the first example of EDS type V of the Berlin nosology. The cutaneous phenotype of the index patient was close to classical EDS and all males died for a lethal cardiac valvular dystrophy. Whole exome sequencing identified the novel c.1829‐1G>C splice variation in FLNA in two affected cousins. The nucleotide change was predicted to abolish the canonical splice acceptor site of exon 13 and to activate a cryptic acceptor site 15 bp downstream, leading to in frame deletion of five amino acid residues (p.Phe611_Gly615del). The predicted in frame deletion clusters with all the mutations previously identified in XCVD and falls within the N‐terminus rod 1 domain of filamin A. Our findings expand the male‐specific phenotype of FLNA mutations that now includes classical‐like EDS with lethal cardiac valvular dystrophy, and offer further insights for the genotype–phenotype correlations within this spectrum. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Critical congenital heart defects and abnormal levels of routinely collected first‐ and second‐trimester biomarkers
Authors: Borelli Melissa , Baer Rebecca J. , Chambers Christina D. , Smith Tyler C. , Jelliffe‐Pawlowski Laura L.
Published: October 2016

We examined the association between maternal characteristics, routinely collected first‐ and second‐trimester biomarkers and the risk of having an infant with a critical congenital heart defect (CCHD). Included were women who participated in the California Prenatal Screening Program who had nuchal translucency (NT) measurement and first‐ and second‐trimester serum screening. All pregnancies ended in a live birth of an infant without aneuploidy or a neural tube defect. Poisson regression analyses were used to estimate the relative risk and 95% confidence interval of a CCHD by maternal characteristics, first‐ and second‐trimester serum biomarkers or NT measurements. The sample included 118,194 mother–infant pairs; 284 infants had a CCHD. Women with preexisting diabetes were three‐times as likely to have an infant with a CCHD. After adjusting for preexisting diabetes, women with first‐trimester human chorionic gonatotropin (hCG) measurement <10th centile were 1.6‐times as likely to have an infant with a CCHD (P = 0.011). Women with a NT measurement ≥95th centile were at two‐ to threefold higher risk of having an infant with a CCHD (P's = 0.004–0.007). Pregnancies with two risk factors for an infant with a CCHD were 5.6‐times more likely to have an infant with a CCHD than women with no identified risk factors (P < 0.001). Despite the increased risk, performance testing demonstrated low sensitivity and specificity for screening use of these risk factors. Of the women with an infant with a CCHD, only 21.8% had an identified risk factor. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alleno‐acetylenische Käfigrezeptoren (AAKs) – chiroptische Schaltung und enantioselektive Komplexierung von trans‐1,2‐Dimethylcyclohexan in einer diaxialen Konformation
Authors: Gropp Cornelius , Trapp Nils , Diederich François
Published: October 2016

Vier enantiomerenreine 1,3‐Diethinylallene (DEAs) mit terminalen OH‐Gruppen wurden am oberen Rand eines Resorcin[4]aren‐Cavitanden befestigt. Das System geht konformative Schaltung zwischen einer Käfigform, die durch ein cyclisches Netzwerk von H‐Brücken geschlossen wird, und einer offenen Form, in der die OH‐Gruppen nach außen gerichtet sind, ein. Die Käfigform überwiegt in unpolaren Lösungsmitteln, die offene Konformation in kleinen, polaren Lösungsmitteln. Beide Zustände wurden sowohl in Lösung als auch in Röntgenstrukturen von Cokristallen bestätigt. Die ECD‐Spektren der alleno‐acetylenischen Käfigrezeptoren (AAKs) sind stark konformationsabhängig, wobei der Cotton‐Effekt bei längster Wellenlänge (λ=304 nm) von Δϵ= +191 m−1 cm−1 für den offenen (P)4‐AAK⊂Acetonitril‐Komplex zu Δϵ=−691 m−1 cm−1 (ΔΔϵ=882 m−1 cm−1) für den geschlossenen (P)4‐AAK⊂Cyclohexan‐Komplex invertiert. Vollständige Racematspaltung von (±)‐trans‐1,2‐Dimethylcyclohexan wurde in Röntgenstrukturen von Cokristallen beobachtet, wobei (P)4‐AAK ausschließlich den R,R‐ und (M)4‐AAK den S,S‐konfigurierten Gast bindet. Gasteinschluss erfolgt dabei in der höherenergetischen diaxialen Konformation.
Retrograde and Direct Wave Locomotion in a Photosensitive Self‐Oscillating Gel
Authors: Ren Lin , She Weibing , Gao Qingyu , Pan Changwei , Ji Chen , Epstein Irving R.
Published: October 2016

Crawling motion mediated by retrograde and direct waves, that is, in the opposite or the same direction, respectively, as the muscular wave that generates it, is a fundamental mode of biological locomotion, from which more complex and sophisticated locomotion modes involving outgrowths such as limbs and wings may have evolved. A detailed general description of muscular wave locomotion and its relationship with other modes of locomotion is a challenging task. We employ a model of a photosensitive self‐oscillating gel, in which chemical pulse waves and a stimulus‐responsive medium play roles analogous to nerve pulses and deformable muscles in an animal, to generate retrograde and direct waves under non‐uniform illumination. Analysis reveals that the directional locomotion arises from a force asymmetry that results in unequal translation lengths in the push and pull regions associated with a pulse wave. This asymmetry can be modulated by the kinetic parameters of the photosensitive Belousov–Zhabotinsky reaction and the performance parameters of the gel, enabling a transition between retrograde and direct wave locomotion.
Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven Carbon Dioxide Reduction by a Single‐Atom Implanted Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Zhang Huabin , Wei Jing , Dong Juncai , Liu Guigao , Shi Li , An Pengfei , Zhao Guixia , Kong Jintao , Wang Xiaojun , Meng Xianguang , Zhang Jing , Ye Jinhua
Published: October 2016

Modular optimization of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) was realized by incorporation of coordinatively unsaturated single atoms in a MOF matrix. The newly developed MOF can selectively capture and photoreduce CO2 with high efficiency under visible‐light irradiation. Mechanistic investigation reveals that the presence of single Co atoms in the MOF can greatly boost the electron–hole separation efficiency in porphyrin units. Directional migration of photogenerated excitons from porphyrin to catalytic Co centers was witnessed, thereby achieving supply of long‐lived electrons for the reduction of CO2 molecules adsorbed on Co centers. As a direct result, porphyrin MOF comprising atomically dispersed catalytic centers exhibits significantly enhanced photocatalytic conversion of CO2, which is equivalent to a 3.13‐fold improvement in CO evolution rate (200.6 μmol g−1 h−1) and a 5.93‐fold enhancement in CH4 generation rate (36.67 μmol g−1 h−1) compared to the parent MOF.
Hole‐Transport Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Calió Laura , Kazim Samrana , Grätzel Michael , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: October 2016

The pressure to move towards renewable energy has inspired researchers to look for ideas in photovoltaics that may lead to a major breakthrough. Recently the use of perovskites as a light harvester has lead to stunning progress. The power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells is now approaching parity (>22 %) with that of the established technology which took decades to reach this level of performance. The use of a hole transport material (HTM) remains indispensable in perovskite solar cells. Perovskites can conduct holes, but they are present at low levels, and for efficient charge extraction a HTM layer is a prerequisite. Herein we provide an overview of the diverse types of HTM available, from organic to inorganic, in the hope of encouraging further research and the optimization of these materials.
Highly Efficient Nitric Oxide Capture by Azole‐Based Ionic Liquids through Multiple‐Site Absorption
Authors: Chen Kaihong , Shi Guiling , Zhou Xiuyuan , Li Haoran , Wang Congmin
Published: October 2016

A novel method for highly efficient nitric oxide absorption by azole‐based ionic liquid was reported. The NO absorption capacity reached up to 4.52 mol per mol ionic liquid and is significant higher than the capacity other traditional absorbents. Moreover, the absorption of NO by this ionic liquid was reversible. Through a combination of experimental absorption, quantum chemical calculation, NMR and FT‐IR spectroscopic investigation, the results indicated that such high capacity originated from multiple‐site interactions between NO and the anion through the formation of NONOate with the chemical formula R1R2N−(NO−)−N=O, where R1 and R2 are alkyl groups. We believe that this highly efficient and reversible NO absorption by an azole‐based ionic liquid paves a new way for gas capture and utilization.
Morphology and Morphometry of the Ovaries and Uteri of the Amazonian Freshwater Stingrays (Potamotrygonidae: Elasmobranchii)
Authors: da Silva Maria Isabel , de Oliveira Maria Inês Braga , da Costa Oscar Tadeu Ferreira , Duncan Wallice Paxiúba
Published: October 2016

The reproductive biology of South American freshwater stingrays (family Potamotrygonidae) is still poorly studied compared to other marine species. In the present study, we examined the gross anatomy and histology of six species of potamotrygonids from the Amazon basin and described the structural asymmetry of the ovaries and their relationship between ovarian and uterine fecundities. Stereological techniques were used to quantify the volume of ovarian and epigonal organ tissue associated with the left and right sides of the Potamotrygon wallacei, a recently described species, locally known as the cururu ray. This species presented ovarian asymmetry; the left epigonal organ‐ovary complex was 55 times larger than the right side. The right side was composed of, volumetrically, 7.3% ovarian tissue and 92.7% epigonal organ tissue whereas the left side was 51.2% of ovarian tissue and 48.8% epigonal organ tissue. In all species, six types of follicles were identified in both right and left ovaries. Uteri were symmetrical and the fecundity ratio between the right and left sides was 0.9:1.1, respectively. Despite the volumetric difference of ovarian tissue between the two sides, the uterine fecundity shows that both ovaries are functional and that ovarian fecundity alone is not an accurate measure to determine the reproductive potential of freshwater stingrays. Anat Rec, 300:265–276, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Skin of the Red Eye Tree Frog Agalychnis Callidryas (Hylidae, Phyllomedusinae) Contains Lipid Glands of the Type Described in the Genus Phyllomedusa
Authors: Rota Elisa , Tanteri Gianfranco , Montori Gilberto , Giachi Filippo , Delfino Giovanni , Sever David M.
Published: October 2016

Several anuran species of the genus Phyllomedusa are known to possess specialized cutaneous glands producing lipids and exhibit a peculiar wiping behavior. This behavior is a stereotyped repertory of fore and hind limb movements distributing hydrophobic molecules onto the body surface and reducing evaporative water loss. No reports are presently available on the occurrence of lipid glands in other phyllomedusine genera, and data on the structure of the secretory units specialized for the production of cutaneous lipids are still unclear. The present report is aimed to answer both questions: it describes lipid glands of the Phyllomedusa type in Agalychnis callidryas and provides light and transmission electron microscope evidence of the syncytial structure of their secretory units, a typical feature of serous glands in anuran skin. This morphological trait supports the hypothesis that lipid glands are a specialized subset of the anuran serous glands, and underlines their flexible role in the skin adaption to sub‐aerial environments. Anat Rec, 300:503–506, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
STING Contributes to Abnormal Bone Formation Induced by Deficiency of DNase II in Mice
Authors: Baum Rebecca , Sharma Shruti , Organ Jason M. , Jakobs Christopher , Hornung Veit , Burr David B. , Marshak‐Rothstein Ann , Fitzgerald Katherine A. , Gravallese Ellen M.
Published: October 2016

Objective

Cytosolic DNA sensors detect microbial DNA and promote type I interferon (IFN) and proinflammatory cytokine production through the adaptor stimulator of IFN genes (STING) to resolve infection. Endogenous DNA also engages the STING pathway, contributing to autoimmune disease. This study sought to identify the role of STING in regulating bone formation and to define the bone phenotype and its pathophysiologic mechanisms in arthritic mice double deficient in DNase II and IFN‐α/β/ω receptor (IFNAR) (DNase II−/−/IFNAR−/− double‐knockout [DKO] mice) compared with controls.

Methods

Bone parameters were evaluated by micro–computed tomography and histomorphometry in DKO mice in comparison with mice triple deficient in STING, DNase II, and IFNAR and control mice. Cell culture techniques were employed to determine the parameters of osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation and function. NanoString and Affymetrix array analyses were performed to identify factors promoting ectopic bone formation.

Results

Despite the expression of proinflammatory cytokines that would be expected to induce bone loss in the skeleton of DKO mice, the results, paradoxically, demonstrated an accumulation of bone in the long bones and spleens, sites of erythropoiesis and robust DNA accrual. In addition, factors promoting osteoblast recruitment and function were induced. Deficiency of STING significantly inhibited bone accrual.

Conclusion

These data reveal a novel role for cytosolic DNA sensor pathways in bone in the setting of autoimmune disease. The results demonstrate the requirement of an intact STING pathway for bone formation in this model, a finding that may have relevance to autoimmune diseases in which DNA plays a pathogenic role. Identification of pathways linking innate immunity and bone could reveal novel targets for the treatment of bone abnormalities in human autoimmune diseases.
Hyperactivity and male‐specific sleep deficits in the 16p11.2 deletion mouse model of autism
Authors: Angelakos Christopher C. , Watson Adam J. , O'Brien W. Timothy , Krainock Kyle S. , Nickl‐Jockschat Thomas , Abel Ted
Published: October 2016

Sleep disturbances and hyperactivity are prevalent in several neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Evidence from genome‐wide association studies indicates that chromosomal copy number variations (CNVs) are associated with increased prevalence of these neurodevelopmental disorders. In particular, CNVs in chromosomal region 16p11.2 profoundly increase the risk for ASD and ADHD, disorders that are more common in males than females. We hypothesized that mice hemizygous for the 16p11.2 deletion (16p11.2 del/+) would exhibit sex‐specific sleep and activity alterations. To test this hypothesis, we recorded activity patterns using infrared beam breaks in the home‐cage of adult male and female 16p11.2 del/+ and wildtype (WT) littermates. In comparison to controls, we found that both male and female 16p11.2 del/+ mice exhibited robust home‐cage hyperactivity. In additional experiments, sleep was assessed by polysomnography over a 24‐hr period. 16p11.2 del/+ male, but not female mice, exhibited significantly more time awake and significantly less time in non‐rapid‐eye‐movement (NREM) sleep during the 24‐hr period than wildtype littermates. Analysis of bouts of sleep and wakefulness revealed that 16p11.2 del/+ males, but not females, spent a significantly greater proportion of wake time in long bouts of consolidated wakefulness (greater than 42 min in duration) compared to controls. These changes in hyperactivity, wake time, and wake time distribution in the males resemble sleep disturbances observed in human ASD and ADHD patients, suggesting that the 16p11.2 del/+ mouse model may be a useful genetic model for studying sleep and activity problems in human neurodevelopmental disorders. Autism Res 2016. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 572–584. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neonatal thyroid hormone levels in association with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Lyall Kristen , Anderson Meredith , Kharrazi Martin , Windham Gayle C.
Published: October 2016

Thyroid hormones (TH) are critical in early neurodevelopment, but few studies have examined whether neonatal TH levels influence risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study linked California neonatal screening data with live birth and Department of Developmental Services records to examine newborn TH levels in relation to ASD. Thyroxine (T4) and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were measured in newborn bloodspots as part of routine screening, in 1996 and 2002, respectively. Mean levels of T4 and TSH were compared between ASD cases and non‐cases. Four hundred forty‐seven thousand, fifty‐nine screened, singleton births from 1996 and 446,424 from 2002 were examined, including 4,818 ASD cases. Binomial regression, using categories of T4 and TSH percentiles was used to calculate crude and adjusted risk ratios (RR). Covariates included maternal and child factors, gestational age, and age at blood draw. No significant associations were found with TSH levels and ASD in crude or adjusted analyses. ASD cases had significantly lower mean T4 levels than non‐cases, but this association was no longer significant in adjusted analyses (RR in individuals in lowest 5th percentile of T4 levels = 1.13, 95% 0.93–1.37). However, this association appeared stronger in certain subgroup analyses, particularly among neonates with blood draw ≥48 hr from birth (RR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.08, 2.60), when TH levels become more stable. Thus, results from this large, population‐based study did not suggest strong associations between neonatal TH and ASD, but certain subgroups of newborns with the lowest T4 levels may have modestly increased ASD risk. Autism Res 2016. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 585–592. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How to Identify Strategy Use and Adaptive Strategy Selection: The Crucial Role of Chance Correction in Weighted Compensatory Strategies
Authors: Jekel Marc , Glöckner Andreas
Published: October 2016

Model comparisons based on choices are a common method to assess adaptive strategy selection models. We show that one common methodological choice prevailing in parts of this work makes it hard to draw sound conclusions concerning the central questions of how often people indeed use simplified strategies (e.g., fast‐and‐frugal heuristics) and whether they select between them adaptively. Conclusions from this work are biased insofar that more complex weighted compensatory strategies, such as Franklin's Rule, that are considered alternatives to fast‐and‐frugal heuristics are specified in a way that leads to a systematic underestimation of the degree to which they are relied on. Specifically, the common practice of not correcting cue validities for chance level results in a substantial disadvantage for weighted compensatory strategies. Model recovery simulations and a reanalysis of published data correspondingly show overestimation of the reliance on fast‐and‐frugal heuristics for various environments used in prominent studies. Furthermore, our results indicate that the magnitude of this overestimation is contingent on the structure of the environment so that strategy selection is mimicked without any material basis. As a result, even completely rational individuals would be erroneously classified as adaptive users of simple strategies. We recommend that chance corrected implementations of weighted compensatory strategies should be included in all future studies investigating the usage of adaptive strategies and argue that comprehensive re‐analyses of previous work are warranted. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behavior Analysts' Use of and Beliefs in Treatments for People with Autism: A 5‐Year Follow‐up
Authors: Schreck Kimberly A. , Karunaratne Yenushka , Zane Thomas , Wilford Heather
Published: October 2016

As autism prevalence rises, parents of children with autism rely upon professionals to recommend the most effective treatment for their children. Historically, these professionals have chosen a range of treatments from empirically supported to nonempirically supported treatments. This study replicated and extended that work by surveying Board Certified Behavior Analysts to determine what treatments they promoted and used. Results showed that although most respondents used evidence‐based, behavioral procedures, many did not. Influential stimuli most likely to contribute to behavior analysts' choices of treatments were beliefs in effectiveness, ease of implementation, and persuasion by others. Self‐reported reinforcers for treatment use included perceived observed success, praise from others, and financial gain. Behavior analysts continue to use a variety of nonscientifically supported treatments, including those that have been deemed ineffective and harmful to people with autism. Future training of Board Certified Behavior Analysts must stress adherence to the ethical code for certified behavior analysts, adherence to data‐based decision‐making, and strict fealty to the scientific process in which all behavior analysts have been trained. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.