bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary wheat amylase trypsin inhibitors promote features of murine non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Ashfaq-Khan Muhammad , Aslam Misbah , Qureshi Muhammad Asif , Senkowski Marcel Sascha , Yen-Weng Shih , Strand Susanne , Kim Yong Ook , Pickert Geethanjali , Schattenberg Jörn M. , Schuppan Detlef
Published: November 2019

We previously demonstrated that a common dietary protein component, wheat amylase trypsin inhibitors (ATI), stimulate intestinal macrophages and dendritic cells via toll like receptor 4. Activation of these intestinal myeloid cells elicits an inflammatory signal that is propagated to mesenteric lymph nodes, and that can facilitate extraintestinal inflammation. Mice were fed a well-defined high fat diet, with (HFD/ATI) or without (HFD) nutritionally irrelevant amounts of ATI. Mice on HFD/ATI developed only mild signs of intestinal inflammation and myeloid cell activation but displayed significantly higher serum triglycerides and transaminases compared to mice on HFD alone. Moreover, they showed increased visceral and liver fat, and a higher insulin resistance. ATI feeding promoted liver and adipose tissue inflammation, with M1-type macrophage polarization and infiltration, and enhanced liver fibrogenesis. Gluten, the major protein component of wheat, did not induce these pathologies. Therefore, wheat ATI ingestion in minute quantities comparable to human daily wheat consumption exacerbated features of the metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, despite its irrelevant caloric value.
Association between Information and Communication Technology use and Ocular Axial Length Elongation among Middle-Aged Male Workers
Authors: Honda Toru , Nakagawa Toru , Watanabe Yuya , Hayashi Takeshi , Nakano Tadashi , Horie Seichi , Tatemichi Masayuki
Published: November 2019

The use of Information and Communication Technology devices (ICT) has spread globally; therefore, increasing exposure to these display devices is an important health issue in the workplace. The association between ocular axial length (AL) elongation and ICT use was investigated among 7334 middle-aged Japanese male workers. Detailed ICT use information was obtained using a self-administered questionnaire. The high AL group was defined as the group with AL above the 75th percentile for each 5-year age interval. Logistic analysis showed that the odds ratio (OR) for the high AL group of >8 hours/day, adjusted for potent confounding factors, was significantly elevated relative to <1 hour/day. Notably, there was a strong association in the older groups (OR = 6.60, 95% CI = 3.92–11.12), based on work-related uses: word processing, sending e-mails, preparation of presentation materials, and browsing websites. In addition, among workers with extended ICT use for these work-related purposes, a significant lateral difference was observed in AL. However, these associations were not observed for private use, such as playing games. The results of our prospective cross-sectional study show that increased time spent on work-related ICT uses was associated with AL elongation, particularly in older workers.
Exceptional points in classical spin dynamics
Authors: Galda Alexey , Vinokur Valerii M.
Published: November 2019

Non-conservative physical systems admit a special kind of spectral degeneracy, known as exceptional point (EP), at which eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the corresponding non-Hermitian Hamiltonian coalesce. Dynamical parametric encircling of the EP can lead to non-adiabatic evolution associated with a state flip, a sharp transition between the resonant modes. Physical consequences of the dynamical encircling of EPs in open dissipative systems have been explored in optics and photonics. Building on the recent progress in understanding the parity-time ($${\mathscr{P}}{\mathscr{T}}$$PT)-symmetric dynamics in spin systems, we use topological properties of EPs to implement chiral non-reciprocal transmission of a spin through the material with non-uniform magnetization, like helical magnet. We consider an exemplary system, spin-torque-driven single spin described by the time-dependent non-Hermitian Hamiltonian. We show that encircling individual EPs in a parameter space results in non-reciprocal spin dynamics and find the range of optimal protocol parameters for high-efficiency asymmetric spin filter based on this effect. Our findings offer a platform for non-reciprocal spin devices for spintronics and magnonics.
Construction of a high-density genetic linkage map and mapping of quantitative trait loci for growth-related traits in silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)
Authors: Wang Xinhua , Liu Haiyang , Pang Meixia , Fu Beide , Yu Xiaomu , He Shunping , Tong Jingou
Published: November 2019

High-density genetic map and quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping are powerful tools for identifying genomic regions that may be responsible for such polygenic trait as growth. A high-density genetic linkage map was constructed by sequencing 198 individuals in a F1 family of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) in this study. This genetic map spans a length of 2,721.07 cM with 3,134 SNPs distributed on 24 linkage groups (LGs). Comparative genomic mapping presented a high level of syntenic relationship between silver carp and zebrafish. We detected one major and nineteen suggestive QTL for 4 growth-related traits (body length, body height, head length and body weight) at 6, 12 and 18 months post hatch (mph), explaining 10.2~19.5% of phenotypic variation. All six QTL for growth traits of 12 mph generally overlapped with QTL for 6 mph, while the majority of QTL for 18 mph were identified on two additional LGs, which may reveal a different genetic modulation during early and late muscle growth stages. Four potential candidate genes were identified from the QTL regions by homology searching of marker sequences against zebrafish genome. Hepcidin, a potential candidate gene identified from a QTL interval on LG16, was significantly associated with growth traits in the analyses of both phenotype-SNP association and mRNA expression between small-size and large-size groups of silver carp. These results provide a basis for elucidating the genetic mechanisms for growth and body formation in silver carp, a world aquaculture fish.
Determination of the Aspect-ratio Distribution of Gold Nanorods in a Colloidal Solution using UV-visible absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Binetti Leonardo , Nguyen T. Hien , Alwis Lourdes S. M. , Agrawal Arti , Sun Tong , Grattan Kenneth T. V.
Published: November 2019

Knowledge of the distribution of the aspect ratios (ARs) in a chemically-synthesized colloidal solution of Gold Nano Rods (GNRs) is an important measure in determining the quality of synthesis, and consequently the performance of the GNRs generated for various applications. In this work, an algorithm has been developed based on the Bellman Principle of Optimality to readily determine the AR distribution of synthesized GNRs in colloidal solutions. This is achieved by theoretically fitting the longitudinal plasmon resonance of GNRs obtained by UV-visible spectroscopy. The AR distribution obtained from the use of the algorithm developed have shown good agreement with those theoretically generated one as well as with the previously reported results. After bench-marking, the algorithm has been applied to determine the mean and standard deviation of the AR distribution of two GNRs solutions synthesized and examined in this work. The comparison with experimentally derived results from the use of expensive Transmission Electron Microscopic images and Dynamic Light Scattering technique shows that the algorithm developed offers a fast and thus potentially cost-effective solution to determine the quality of the synthesized GNRs specifically needed for many potential applications for the advanced sensor systems.
Replication of a Printed Volatile Mold: a novel microfabrication method for advanced microfluidic systems
Authors: Brossard Rémy , Brouchet Thomas , Malloggi Florent
Published: November 2019

A novel and simple method to fabricate microchannels is reported based on an inkjet printing of a volatile solid mold. A liquid ink -1,6 hexanediol- ejected from a piezoelectric nozzle is instantaneously frozen when touching a cooled substrate. The created mold is then poured with PDMS. Once the PDMS is crosslinked, the ink is sublimated and the device is ready. With this approach it is possible to make microchannels on different nature surfaces such as glass, paper, uncross-linked PDMS layer or non planar substrates. The versatility of this method is illustrated by printing channels directly on commercial electrodes and measuring the channel capacitance. Moreover, millimetric height microfluidic systems are easily produced (aspect ratio $$\ge $$≥ 25) as well as 3D structures such as bridges. To demonstrate, we have fabricated a combinatorial microfluidic system which makes 6 mixtures from 4 initial solutions without any stacking and tedious alignment procedure.
Visualization and quantification of the degenerative pattern of the talus in unilateral varus ankle osteoarthritis
Authors: Seki Hiroyuki , Ogihara Naomichi , Kokubo Tetsuro , Suda Yasunori , Ishii Ken , Nagura Takeo
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study was to quantify and visualize the degenerative patterns of the talus in ankle osteoarthritis (OA). The differences in talar morphology between sides of patients with unilateral varus ankle OA (medial talar tilt > 4°) were compared. Computed tomography images of both feet of 35 patients (OA: 22 patients, control: 13 patients) were analyzed. Each surface model of the right and left tali was registered to the opposite talus via a mirror-image technique and an iterative closest point algorithm. The surface deviation between the two models was quantified and visualized by deviation color maps. The results quantitatively demonstrated that osteophytes are generated in the area under the antero-medial margin of the trochlea in OA tali. In severe OA tali, bone resorption of more than 2 mm in the medial portion of the trochlea, as well as a similar degree of osteophyte formation on the lateral surface, was also seen. Stereotypical patterns of degeneration occurring in OA tali were successfully visualized and quantified by left-right comparison of patients with unilateral ankle OA. Such information would contribute to better understanding of the development of ankle OA and preoperative planning of total ankle arthroplasty and arthrodesis.
Nano-scale characterisation of sheared β” precipitates in a deformed Al-Mg-Si alloy
Authors: Christiansen Emil , Marioara Calin Daniel , Holmedal Bjørn , Hopperstad Odd Sture , Holmestad Randi
Published: November 2019

This paper compares the nano-scale structure of β” precipitates in a peak-aged Al-Mg-Si alloy before and after deformation. Three complementary advanced transmission electron microscopy techniques are used to reveal the structures and elucidate the interaction between dislocations and β” precipitates. We show that the needle-like and semi-coherent β” precipitates are sheared several times on different planes by dislocations during deformation, with no indications that they are bypassed or looped. Our results show that dislocations cut through precipitates and leave behind planar defects lying on planes inclined to 〈100〉 directions inside the precipitates. The results also indicate that precipitates are sheared in single steps, and the implication of this observation is discussed in terms of slip behaviour.
Localization effect on AMS fabric revealed by microstructural evidence across small-scale shear zone in marble
Authors: Kusbach V. K. , Machek M. , Roxerová Z. , Racek M. , Silva P. F.
Published: November 2019

Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) is regularly applied as a tool to infer structural analysis of deformation and flow in rocks, particularly, with low anisotropy. AMS integrates the magnetic signature of crystallographic and shape preferred orientation of all mineral grains present in the rock microstructure. Those preferred orientations result from multiple processes affecting the rock during its evolution, therefore the desirable AMS-strain relationship is not straightforward. Here we show that due to localization of deformation, AMS is indirectly dependent on the magnitude and character of deformation. In order to decipher the AMS-strain relationship, AMS studies should be accompanied by microstructural analyses combined with numerical modelling of magnetic fabric. A small-scale shear zone produced by single deformation event was studied. The resultant AMS fabric is “inverse” due to the presence of Fe-dolomite and controlled by calcite and dolomite crystallographic preferred orientations. The localized deformation resulted in the angular deviation between macroscopic and magnetic fabric in the shear zone, systematically increasing with increasing strain. This is a result of the presence of microstructural subfabrics of coarse porphyroclasts and fine-grained recrystallized matrix produced by localization.The localization of deformation is a multiscale and widespread process that should be considered whenever interpreting AMS in deformed rocks and regions.
An integrated nomogram combining lncRNAs classifier and clinicopathologic factors to predict the recurrence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cui Jie , Wen Qingquan , Tan Xiaojun , Piao Jinsong , Zhang Qiong , Wang Qian , He Lizhen , Wang Yan , Chen Zhen , Liu Genglong
Published: November 2019

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) which have little or no protein-coding capacity, due to their potential roles in the cancer disease, caught a particular interest. Our study aims to develop an lncRNAs-based classifier and a nomogram incorporating the lncRNAs classifier and clinicopathologic factors to help to improve the accuracy of recurrence prediction for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. The HNSCC lncRNAs profiling data and the corresponding clinicopathologic information were downloaded from TANRIC database and cBioPortal. Using univariable Cox regression and Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis, we developed 15-lncRNAs-based classifier related to recurrence. On the basis of multivariable Cox regression analysis results, a nomogram integrating the genomic and clinicopathologic predictors was built. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability of the inclusive nomogram were confirmed by calibration curve and a concordance index (C-index), and compared with TNM stage system by C-index, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was conducted to evaluate clinical value of our nomogram. Consequently, fifteen recurrence-free survival (RFS) -related lncRNAs were identified, and the classifier consisting of the established 15 lncRNAs could effectively divide patients into high-risk and low-risk subgroup. The prediction ability of the 15-lncRNAs-based classifier for predicting 3- year and 5-year RFS were 0.833 and 0.771. Independent factors derived from multivariable analysis to predict recurrence were number of positive LNs, margin status, mutation count and lncRNAs classifier, which were all embedded into the nomogram. The calibration curve for the recurrence probability showed that the predictions based on the nomogram were in good coincide with practical observations. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.76 (0.72–0.79), and the area under curve (AUC) of nomogram in predicting RFS was 0.809, which were significantly higher than traditional TNM stage and 15-lncRNAs-based classifier. Decision curve analysis further demonstrated that our nomogram had larger net benefit than TNM stage and 15-lncRNAs-based classifier. The results were confirmed externally. In summary, a visually inclusive nomogram for patients with HNSCC, comprising genomic and clinicopathologic variables, generates more accurate prediction of the recurrence probability when compared TNM stage alone, but more additional data remains needed before being used in clinical practice.
Spatio-temporal analysis of association between incidence of malaria and environmental predictors of malaria transmission in Nigeria
Authors: Okunlola Oluyemi A. , Oyeyemi Oyetunde T.
Published: November 2019

Malaria still poses a significant threat in Nigeria despite the various efforts to abate its transmission. Certain environmental factors have been implicated to increase the risk of malaria in Nigeria and other affected countries. The study aimed to evaluate the spatial and temporal association between the incidence of malaria and some environmental risk factors in Nigeria. The study used malaria incidence and environmental risk factors data emanating from 2015 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey accessed from the Demographic and Health Survey database. A total of 333 and 326 clusters throughout the country were used for malaria incidence study and environmental variables respectively. The spatial autocorrelation of malaria incidence and hotspot analysis was determined by the Moran’s diagram and local Moran’s I index, respectively. The relationships between the malaria incidence and the ecological predictors of transmission were analysed in all the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria from 2000–2015 using ordinary least square (OLS), spatial lag model (SLM), and spatial error model (SEM). Annual rainfall, precipitation and proximity to water showed significant positive relationship with the incidence rate of malaria in the OLS model (P < 0.01), whereas aridity was negatively related to malaria incidence (P < 0.001) in the same model. The rate of incidence of malaria increased significantly with increase in temperature, aridity, rainfall and proximity to water in the SEM whereas only temperature and proximity to water have significant positive effect on malaria incidence in the SLM. The modelling of the ecological predictors of malaria transmission and spatial maps provided in this study could aid in developing framework to mitigate malaria and identify its hotspots for urgent intervention in the endemic regions.
Evaluation of longitudinal time-lapsed in vivo micro-CT for monitoring fracture healing in mouse femur defect models
Authors: Wehrle Esther , Tourolle né Betts Duncan C. , Kuhn Gisela A. , Scheuren Ariane C. , Hofmann Sandra , Müller Ralph
Published: November 2019

Longitudinal in vivo micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is of interest to non-invasively capture the healing process of individual animals in preclinical fracture healing studies. However, it is not known whether longitudinal imaging itself has an impact on callus formation and remodeling. In this study, a scan group received weekly micro-CT measurements (week 0–6), whereas controls were only scanned post-operatively and at week 5 and 6. Registration of consecutive scans using a branching scheme (bridged vs. unbridged defect) combined with a two-threshold approach enabled assessment of localized bone turnover and mineralization kinetics relevant for monitoring callus remodeling. Weekly micro-CT application did not significantly change any of the assessed callus parameters in the defect and periosteal volumes. This was supported by histomorphometry showing only small amounts of cartilage residuals in both groups, indicating progression towards the end of the healing period. Also, immunohistochemical staining of Sclerostin, previously associated with mediating adverse radiation effects on bone, did not reveal differences between groups. The established longitudinal in vivo micro-CT-based approach allows monitoring of healing phases in mouse femur defect models without significant effects of anesthesia, handling and radiation on callus properties. Therefore, this study supports application of longitudinal in vivo micro-CT for healing-phase-specific monitoring of fracture repair in mice.
Ultrasensitive and label-free biosensor for the detection of Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein II in saliva
Authors: Soraya Gita V. , Abeyrathne Chathurika D. , Buffet Christelle , Huynh Duc H. , Uddin Shah Mukim , Chan Jianxiong , Skafidas Efstratios , Kwan Patrick , Rogerson Stephen J.
Published: November 2019

Malaria elimination is a global public health priority. To fulfil the demands of elimination diagnostics, we have developed an interdigitated electrode sensor platform targeting the Plasmodium falciparum Histidine Rich Protein 2 (PfHRP2) protein in saliva samples. A protocol for frequency-specific PfHRP2 detection in phosphate buffered saline was developed, yielding a sensitivity of 2.5 pg/mL based on change in impedance magnitude of the sensor. This protocol was adapted and optimized for use in saliva with a sensitivity of 25 pg/mL based on change in resistance. Further validation demonstrated detection in saliva spiked with PfHRP2 from clinical isolates in 8 of 11 samples. With a turnaround time of ~2 hours, the label-free platform based on impedance sensors has the potential for miniaturization into a point-of-care diagnostic device for malaria elimination.
Author Correction: Anticancer polymers designed for killing dormant prostate cancer cells
Authors: Takahashi Haruko , Yumoto Kenji , Yasuhara Kazuma , Nadres Enrico T. , Kikuchi Yutaka , Buttitta Laura , Taichman Russell S. , Kuroda Kenichi
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Blood transcriptome analysis in a buck-ewe hybrid and its parents
Authors: Falker-Gieske Clemens , Knorr Christoph , Tetens Jens
Published: November 2019

Examples of living sheep-goat hybrids are rare, mainly due to incorrect chromosome pairing, which is thought to be the main cause for species incompatibility. This case represents the first report of a buck-ewe hybrid and the first mammalian hybrid to be analyzed with next generation sequencing. The buck-ewe hybrid had an intermediate karyotype to the parental species, with 57 chromosomes. Analysis of the blood transcriptomes of the hybrid and both parents revealed that gene expression levels differed between the hybrid and its parents. This could be explained in part by age-dependent differences in gene expression. Contribution to the geep transcriptome was larger from the paternal, compared to the maternal, genome. Furthermore, imprinting patterns deviated considerably from what is known from other mammals. Potentially deleterious variants appeared to be compensated for by monoallelic expression of transcripts. Hence, the data imply that the buck-ewe hybrid compensated for the phylogenetic distance between the parental species by several mechanisms: adjustment of gene expression levels, adaptation to imprinting incompatibilities, and selective monoallelic expression of advantageous transcripts. This study offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the transcriptome biology and regulation of a hybrid mammal.
Towards Quantification of Inflammation in Atherosclerotic Plaque in the Clinic – Characterization and Optimization of Fluorine-19 MRI in Mice at 3 T
Authors: Darçot Emeline , Colotti Roberto , Pellegrin Maxime , Wilson Anne , Siegert Stefanie , Bouzourene Karima , Yerly Jérôme , Mazzolai Lucia , Stuber Matthias , van Heeswijk Ruud B.
Published: November 2019

Fluorine-19 (19F) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of injected perfluorocarbons (PFCs) can be used for the quantification and monitoring of inflammation in diseases such as atherosclerosis. To advance the translation of this technique to the clinical setting, we aimed to 1) demonstrate the feasibility of quantitative 19F MRI in small inflammation foci on a clinical scanner, and 2) to characterize the PFC-incorporating leukocyte populations and plaques. To this end, thirteen atherosclerotic apolipoprotein-E-knockout mice received 2 × 200 µL PFC, and were scanned on a 3 T clinical MR system. 19F MR signal was detected in the aortic arch and its branches in all mice, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 11.1 (interquartile range IQR = 9.5–13.1) and a PFC concentration of 1.15 mM (IQR = 0.79–1.28). Imaging flow cytometry was used on another ten animals and indicated that PFC-labeled leukocytes in the aortic arch and it branches were mainly dendritic cells, macrophages and neutrophils (ratio 9:1:1). Finally, immunohistochemistry analysis confirmed the presence of those cells in the plaques. We thus successfully used 19F MRI for the noninvasive quantification of PFC in atherosclerotic plaque in mice on a clinical scanner, demonstrating the feasibility of detecting very small inflammation foci at 3 T, and advancing the translation of 19F MRI to the human setting.
Multivariate nonparametric chart for influenza epidemic monitoring
Authors: Liu Liu , Yue Jin , Lai Xin , Huang Jianping , Zhang Jian
Published: November 2019

Control chart methods have been received much attentions in biosurvillance studies. The correlation between charting statistics or regions could be considerably important in monitoring the states of multiple outcomes or regions. In addition, the process variable distribution is unknown in most situations. In this paper, we propose a new nonparametric strategy for multivariate process monitoring when the distribution of a process variable is unknown. We discuss the EWMA control chart based on rank methods for a multivariate process, and the approach is completely nonparametric. A simulation study demonstrates that the proposed method is efficient in detecting shifts for multivariate processes. A real Japanese influenza data example is given to illustrate the performance of the proposed method.
Realtime optimization of multidimensional NMR spectroscopy on embedded sensing devices
Authors: Tang Yiqiao , Song Yi-Qiao
Published: November 2019

The increasingly ubiquitous use of embedded devices calls for autonomous optimizations of sensor performance with meager computing resources. Due to the heavy computing needs, such optimization is rarely performed, and almost never carried out on-the-fly, resulting in a vast underutilization of deployed assets. Aiming at improving the measurement efficiency, we show an OED (Optimal Experimental Design) routine where quantities of interest of probable samples are partitioned into distinctive classes, with the corresponding sensor signals learned by supervised learning models. The trained models, digesting the compressed live data, are subsequently executed at the constrained device for continuous classification and optimization of measurements. We demonstrate the closed-loop method with multidimensional NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) relaxometry, an analytical technique seeing a substantial growth of field applications in recent years, on a wide range of complex fluids. The realtime portion of the procedure demands minimal computing load, and is ideally suited for instruments that are widely used in remote sensing and IoT networks.
Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Lipids in Human Skin Disease Model Hidradenitis Suppurativa by Laser Desorption Ionization from Silicon Nanopost Arrays
Authors: Fincher Jarod A. , Jones Derek R. , Korte Andrew R. , Dyer Jacqueline E. , Parlanti Paola , Popratiloff Anastas , Brantner Christine A. , Morris Nicholas J. , Pirlo Russell K. , Shanmugam Victoria K. , Vertes Akos
Published: November 2019

Neutral lipids have been implicated in a host of potentially debilitating human diseases, such as heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI), the method-of-choice for mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), has led to remarkable success in imaging several lipid classes from biological tissue sections. However, due to ion suppression by phospholipids, MALDI has limited ability to efficiently ionize and image neutral lipids, such as triglycerides (TGs). To help overcome this obstacle, we have utilized silicon nanopost arrays (NAPA), a matrix-free laser desorption ionization (LDI) platform. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin disease of the apocrine sweat glands. The ability of NAPA to efficiently ionize lipids is exploited in the analysis of human skin samples from sufferers of HS. Ionization by LDI from NAPA allows for the detection and imaging of a number of neutral lipid species, including TGs comprised of shorter, odd-chain fatty acids, which strongly suggests an increased bacterial load within the host tissue, as well as hexosylceramides (HexCers) and galabiosyl-/lactosylceramides that appear to be correlated with the presence of HS. Our results demonstrate that NAPA-LDI-MSI is capable of imaging and potentially differentiating healthy and diseased human skin tissues based on changes in detected neutral lipid composition.
Characterization of the mitochondrial genome of the pathogenic fungus Scytalidium auriculariicola (Leotiomycetes) and insights into its phylogenetics
Authors: Chen Cheng , Li Qiang , Fu Rongtao , Wang Jian , Xiong Chuan , Fan Zhonghan , Hu Rongping , Zhang Hong , Lu Daihua
Published: November 2019

Scytalidium auriculariicola is the causative pathogen of slippery scar disease in the cultivated cloud ear fungus, Auricularia polytricha. In the present study, the mitogenome of S. auriculariicola was sequenced and assembled by next-generation sequencing technology. The circular mitogenome is 96,857 bp long and contains 56 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 30 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs). The high frequency of A and T used in codons contributed to the high AT content (73.70%) of the S. auriculariicola mitogenome. Comparative analysis indicated that the base composition and the number of introns and protein-coding genes in the S. auriculariicola mitogenome varied from that of other Leotiomycetes mitogenomes, including a uniquely positive AT skew. Five distinct groups were found in the gene arrangements of Leotiomycetes. Phylogenetic analyses based on combined gene datasets (15 protein-coding genes) yielded well-supported (BPP = 1) topologies. A single-gene phylogenetic tree indicated that the nad4 gene may be useful as a molecular marker to analyze the phylogenetic relationships of Leotiomycetes species. This study is the first report on the mitochondrial genome of the genus Scytalidium, and it will contribute to our understanding of the population genetics and evolution of S. auriculariicola and related species.
A Necropsy Study of Disease and Comorbidity Trends in Morbidity and Mortality in the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) in South-East Queensland, Australia
Authors: Gonzalez-Astudillo V. , Henning J. , Valenza L. , Knott L. , McKinnon A. , Larkin R. , Allavena R.
Published: November 2019

Koalas are an iconic Australian marsupial undergoing precipitous population reduction in South-East Queensland from complex interacting threats. To investigate the causes of death and the interaction of comorbidities with demography in South-East Queensland koalas, a large scale, high-throughput prospective necropsy survey was conducted spanning 2013–2016. During this period, 519 necropsies were conducted in 155 young/subadult koalas, 235 mature, 119 old koalas and 10 of unknown age. Similar numbers of males and females were assessed. Trauma and infectious disease at were the most common single diagnoses. However, comorbidity was frequent, including multicentric infection or infectious disease in combination with trauma or senescence. Female koalas had proportionally more reproductive chlamydiosis compared to males in which the ocular and urinary systems were more commonly affected. Comorbidity and disease were strongly associated with poor body condition, and trauma was associated with good body condition. Animals affected by motor vehicle trauma were often in better body condition than those affected by animal attack, tree fall or other causes of trauma. This study identified a higher frequency of infections and comorbidity then previously reported, confirming the complex nature of interacting threats to the koala population.
Whole-body exposures to radiofrequency-electromagnetic energy can cause DNA damage in mouse spermatozoa via an oxidative mechanism
Authors: Houston Brendan J. , Nixon Brett , McEwan Kristen E. , Martin Jacinta H. , King Bruce V. , Aitken R. John , De Iuliis Geoffry N.
Published: November 2019

Artificially generated radiofrequency-electromagnetic energy (RF-EME) is now ubiquitous in our environment owing to the utilization of mobile phone and Wi-Fi based communication devices. While several studies have revealed that RF-EME is capable of eliciting biological stress, particularly in the context of the male reproductive system, the mechanistic basis of this biophysical interaction remains largely unresolved. To extend these studies, here we exposed unrestrained male mice to RF-EME generated via a dedicated waveguide (905 MHz, 2.2 W/kg) for 12 h per day for a period of 1, 3 or 5 weeks. The testes of exposed mice exhibited no evidence of gross histological change or elevated stress, irrespective of the RF-EME exposure regimen. By contrast, 5 weeks of RF-EME exposure adversely impacted the vitality and motility profiles of mature epididymal spermatozoa. These spermatozoa also experienced increased mitochondrial generation of reactive oxygen species after 1 week of exposure, with elevated DNA oxidation and fragmentation across all exposure periods. Notwithstanding these lesions, RF-EME exposure did not impair the fertilization competence of spermatozoa nor their ability to support early embryonic development. This study supports the utility of male germ cells as sensitive tools with which to assess the biological impacts of whole-body RF-EME exposure.
Co-occurrence of thelytokous and bisexual Trichogramma dendrolimi Matsumura (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) in a natural population
Authors: Liu Quan-quan , Zhou Jin-cheng , Zhang Chen , Ning Su-fang , Duan Li-jia , Dong Hui
Published: November 2019

Trichogramma dendrolimi is one of the most successful biocontrol agents in China. However, an inundative condition is necessary to obtain acceptable parasitism effect. A good solution to this is the application of its thelytokous counterparts which unfortunately are scarce in field. We here report the first case of a natural T. dendrolimi population in China comprising both bisexual wasps and an extremely low proportion of thelytokous wasps. These two forms of T. dendrolimi are phylogenetically related based on the reconstructions of ITS-2 and COI genes. Also, the phylogenetic results suggested a potentially Wolbachia-drived ITS-2 variation. The expression of thelytoky was hardly affected by temperature, which might help control Asian corn borer and Dendrolimus punctatus. Wolbachia are responsible for current thelytoky according to phylogenetic analyses, antibiotic treatment and introgression experiment. We also present the third case of paternal sex ratio chromosome that restrains the expansion of Wolbachia. Moreover, the low frequency of thelytoky may be common in natural populations. Consequently if for biological control it is determined that a thelytokous strain is to be preferred, then large number of field collected females should be set up as isofemale lines, to detect the rare thelytoky.
Parkinson’s disease prognostic scores for progression of cognitive decline
Authors: Gramotnev Galina , Gramotnev Dmitri K. , Gramotnev Alexandra
Published: November 2019

Clinical and biochemical diversity of Parkinson’s disease (PD) presents a major challenge for accurate diagnosis and prediction of its progression. We propose, develop and optimize PD clinical scores as efficient integrated progression biomarkers for prediction of the likely rate of cognitive decline in PD patients. We considered 269 drug-naïve participants from the Parkinson’s Progression Marker Initiative database, diagnosed with idiopathic PD and observed between 4 and 6 years. Nineteen baseline clinical and pathological measures were systematically considered. Relative variable importance and logistic regressions were used to optimize combinations of significant baseline measures as integrated biomarkers. Parkinson’s disease cognitive decline scores were designed as new clinical biomarkers using optimally categorized baseline measures. Specificities and sensitivities of the biomarkers reached ~93% for prediction of severe rate of cognitive decline (with more than 5 points decline in 4 years on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale), and up to ~73% for mild-to-moderate decline (between 1 and 5 points decline). The developed biomarkers and clinical scores could resolve the long-standing clinical problem about reliable prediction of PD progression into cognitive deterioration. The outcomes also provide insights into the contributions of individual clinical and pathological measures to PD progression, and will assist with better-targeted treatment regiments, stratification of clinical trial and their evaluation.
Radiation Dosimetry of Inhaled Radioactive Aerosols: CFPD and MCNP Transport Simulations of Radionuclides in the Lung
Authors: Talaat Khaled , Xi Jinxiang , Baldez Phoenix , Hecht Adam
Published: November 2019

Despite extensive efforts in studying radioactive aerosols, including the transmission of radionuclides in different chemical matrices throughout the body, the internal organ-specific radiation dose due to inhaled radioactive aerosols has largely relied on experimental deposition data and simplified human phantoms. Computational fluid-particle dynamics (CFPD) has proven to be a reliable tool in characterizing aerosol transport in the upper airways, while Monte Carlo based radiation codes allow accurate simulation of radiation transport. The objective of this study is to numerically assess the radiation dosimetry due to particles decaying in the respiratory tract from environmental radioactive exposures by coupling CFPD with Monte Carlo N-Particle code, version 6 (MCNP6). A physiologically realistic mouth-lung model extending to the bifurcation generation G9 was used to simulate airflow and particle transport within the respiratory tract. Polydisperse aerosols with different distributions were considered, and deposition distribution of the inhaled aerosols on the internal airway walls was quantified. The deposition mapping of radioactive aerosols was then registered to the respiratory tract of an image-based whole-body adult male model (VIP-Man) to simulate radiation transport and energy deposition. Computer codes were developed for geometry visualization, spatial normalization, and source card definition in MCNP6. Spatial distributions of internal radiation dosimetry were compared for different radionuclides (131I, 134,137Cs, 90Sr-90Y, 103Ru and 239,240Pu) in terms of the radiation fluence, energy deposition density, and dose per decay.
Author Correction: Comparison of Multipulse Laser Vaporesection versus Plasmakinetic Resection for Treatment of Benign Prostate Obstruction
Authors: Hsu Fu-Shun , Chou Chen-Wei , Chang Hong-Chiang , Tu Yuan-Po , Sha Shing-Jia , Chung Huang-Hsin , Huang Kuo-How
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Contrast of 83% in reflection measurements on a single quantum dot
Authors: Lochner Pia , Kurzmann Annika , Schott Rüdiger , Wieck Andreas D. , Ludwig Arne , Lorke Axel , Geller Martin
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: RNA Transcription and Splicing Errors as a Source of Cancer Frameshift Neoantigens for Vaccines
Authors: Shen Luhui , Zhang Jian , Lee HoJoon , Batista Milene Tavares , Johnston Stephen Albert
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Films of Bacteria at Interfaces (FBI): Remodeling of Fluid Interfaces by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Niepa Tagbo H. R. , Vaccari Liana , Leheny Robert L. , Goulian Mark , Lee Daeyeon , Stebe Kathleen J.
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Integrating machine learning and multiscale modeling—perspectives, challenges, and opportunities in the biological, biomedical, and behavioral sciences
Authors: Alber Mark , Buganza Tepole Adrian , Cannon William R. , De Suvranu , Dura-Bernal Salvador , Garikipati Krishna , Karniadakis George , Lytton William W. , Perdikaris Paris , Petzold Linda , Kuhl Ellen
Published: November 2019

Fueled by breakthrough technology developments, the biological, biomedical, and behavioral sciences are now collecting more data than ever before. There is a critical need for time- and cost-efficient strategies to analyze and interpret these data to advance human health. The recent rise of machine learning as a powerful technique to integrate multimodality, multifidelity data, and reveal correlations between intertwined phenomena presents a special opportunity in this regard. However, machine learning alone ignores the fundamental laws of physics and can result in ill-posed problems or non-physical solutions. Multiscale modeling is a successful strategy to integrate multiscale, multiphysics data and uncover mechanisms that explain the emergence of function. However, multiscale modeling alone often fails to efficiently combine large datasets from different sources and different levels of resolution. Here we demonstrate that machine learning and multiscale modeling can naturally complement each other to create robust predictive models that integrate the underlying physics to manage ill-posed problems and explore massive design spaces. We review the current literature, highlight applications and opportunities, address open questions, and discuss potential challenges and limitations in four overarching topical areas: ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations, data-driven approaches, and theory-driven approaches. Towards these goals, we leverage expertise in applied mathematics, computer science, computational biology, biophysics, biomechanics, engineering mechanics, experimentation, and medicine. Our multidisciplinary perspective suggests that integrating machine learning and multiscale modeling can provide new insights into disease mechanisms, help identify new targets and treatment strategies, and inform decision making for the benefit of human health.
Author Correction: A natural mouse model reveals genetic determinants of systemic capillary leak syndrome (Clarkson disease)
Authors: Raza Abbas , Xie Zhihui , Chan Eunice C. , Chen Wei-Sheng , Scott Linda M. , Eisch A. Robin , Krementsov Dimitry N. , Rosenberg Helene F. , Parikh Samir M. , Blankenhorn Elizabeth P. , Teuscher Cory , Druey Kirk M.
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
A new highly transparent injectable PHA-based thermogelling vitreous substitute
Authors: Xue Kun , Liu Zengping , Jiang Lu , Kai Dan , Li Zibiao , Su Xinyi , Loh Xian Jun
Published: November 2019

Transparency is an important criterion for the application of biomaterials to the eye and essential for use as a vitreous substitute.
Insights into the lithium diffusion process in a defect-containing porous crystalline POM@MOF anode material
Authors: Zhu Peipei , Yang Xiya , Li Xiao , Sheng Ning , Zhang Haifeng , Zhang Gongguo , Sha Jingquan
Published: November 2019

A crystalline POM@MOF material with high Li-ion storage capacity with surface uncoordinated N atoms (defect sites) is reported. The Li-ion diffusion sites are confirmed via ex situ XPS and off-line XRD measurements.
Integrated shortcut nitrogen and biological phosphorus removal from mainstream wastewater: process operation and modeling
Authors: Roots Paul , Sabba Fabrizio , Rosenthal Alex F. , Wang Yubo , Yuan Quan , Rieger Leiv , Yang Fenghua , Kozak Joseph A. , Zhang Heng , Wells George F.
Published: November 2019

Combined nitritation–denitritation and biological phosphorus removal from real wastewater was achieved for more than 400 days without chemical addition.
α-Bisabolol protects against β-adrenergic agonist-induced myocardial infarction in rats by attenuating inflammation, lysosomal dysfunction, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and modulating autophagic flux
Authors: Nagoor Meeran M. F. , Azimullah Sheikh , Laham Farah , Tariq Saeed , Goyal Sameer N. , Adeghate Ernest , Ojha Shreesh
Published: November 2019

Emerging evidence demonstrates that NLRP3 inflammasome activation, lysosomal dysfunction, and impaired autophagic flux play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of myocardial infarction (MI).
Modular within and between score for drug response prediction in cancer cell lines
Authors: Wang Shiming , Li Jie
Published: November 2019

Drug response prediction in cancer cell lines is vital to discover anticancer drugs for new cell lines.
Structural, optical and terahertz properties of graphene-mesoporous silicon nanocomposites
Authors: Jubgang Fandio Défi Junior , Sauze Stéphanie , Boucherif Abderraouf , Arès Richard , Morris Denis
Published: November 2019

Porous structure stabilization, new PL emission bands and preservation of THz dielectric properties with graphene coating in graphene-mesoporous silicon nanocomposites.
Anin situSAXS investigation of the formation of silver nanoparticles and bimetallic silver–gold nanoparticles in controlled wet-chemical reduction synthesis
Authors: Garcia Paulo R. A. F. , Prymak Oleg , Grasmik Viktoria , Pappert Kevin , Wlysses Wagner , Otubo Larissa , Epple Matthias , Oliveira Cristiano L. P.
Published: November 2019

In situinvestigation of metallic nanoparticle synthesis with an online monitoring of the system by SAXS. Determination of structural parameters and growth processes. Ag-NP synthesis presented a bimodal system with the presence of small particles (∼3 nm).
Intrinsic ferromagnetism and valley polarization in hydrogenated group V transition-metal dinitride (MN2H2, M = V/Nb/Ta) nanosheets: insights from first-principles
Authors: Ding Yi , Wang Yanli
Published: November 2019

NbN2H2 nanosheets are predicted to be a promising ferrovalley material with stable intrinsic ferromagnetism and large valley polarization.
Isolated Fe atoms dispersed on cellulose-derived nanocarbons as an efficient electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Zhang Yuhao , Zhang Jinfang , Wang Congwei
Published: November 2019

Cost-effective preparation of efficient electrocatalysts is vitally important for energy storage and conversion.
Multi-gate memristive synapses realized with the lateral heterostructure of 2D WSe2 and WO3
Authors: He Hui-Kai , Yang Rui , Huang He-Ming , Yang Fan-Fan , Wu Ya-Zhou , Shaibo Jamal , Guo Xin
Published: November 2019

Multi-gate memristive synapses based on the lateral heterostructure of 2D WSe2 and WO3 are demonstrated for the first time.
Structural evolution from layered Na2Ti3O7 to Na2Ti6O13 nanowires enabling a highly reversible anode for Mg-ion batteries
Authors: Luo Lan , Zhen Yichao , Lu Yanzhong , Zhou Kaiqiang , Huang Jinxian , Huang Zhigao , Mathur Sanjay , Hong Zhensheng
Published: November 2019

Structural evolution from layered Na2Ti3O7 to Na2Ti6O13 results in remarkably enhanced Mg-ion storage performance.
Tethered molecular redox capacitors for nanoconfinement-assisted electrochemical signal amplification
Authors: Kang Mijeong , Mun ChaeWon , Jung Ho Sang , Ansah Iris Baffour , Kim Eunkyoung , Yang Haesik , Payne Gregory F. , Kim Dong-Ho , Park Sung-Gyu
Published: November 2019

With molecular redox capacitors tethered to the electrode surface, nanostructured electrodes amplify electrochemical signals even under the mass transport constraint.
Reversible control of RNA interference by siRNAzos
Authors: Hammill Matthew L. , Islam Golam , Desaulniers Jean-Paul
Published: November 2019

In this study, we report the reversible control of RNA interference using siRNAzos, a class of siRNAs that contain azobenzene.
Design, synthesis, crystal structure and luminescent properties of a new tantalum-phosphate K3BiTaP3O13 with negligible concentration quenching and good thermostability
Authors: Zhao Dan , Xue Yali , Zhang Ruijuan , Liu Baozhong , Fan Yanping , Dai Shaojie , Zhang Shirui , Ma Zhao
Published: November 2019

This work reports a new host template, K3BiTaP3O13, for both Eu3+ and Tb3+ luminescence, providing a ‘dimensional obstacle’ to suppress negative concentration quenching with a high density of Eu3+ or Tb3+.