bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Confocal Microscopy Listserver
Authors: Summers Robert
Published: March 2018

The Confocal microscopy listserver discussion group was put on the air over 5 years ago by Don Parsons (Albany), Steve Paddock (Wisconsin), P.C. Cheng (Buffalo) and me at the suggestion of Parsons that there should be an open discussion forum for this rapidly developing technology. Parsons is an expert in infomatics (among other things) and appreciated the potential of the “mail reflector” concept at an early stage in its development.

Listserver groups were pretty uncommon then but we figured that since we were dealing with digital microscopists, most of those interested would have computers and access to Bitnet or Internet. For the first month or so Parsons, Paddock, Cheng and I corresponded with one another to work wrinkles out of the system and we then began to publicize the existence of the group at meetings, symposia and through the commercial manufacturers of confocal microscopes and associated hardware.
X-Ray Detectors: Present and Future
Authors: Chernoff Don
Published: March 2018

If you want to collect X-rays on your SEM or TEM you have the choice of using an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) or a wavelength dispersive spectrometer (WDS). Which is better? That depends on what you want to do with it.

WDS is much more sensitive and has much higher resolution than EDS. Sensitivity means that WDS has a much lower minimum detection limit for trace elements. WDS can be up to several orders of magnitude more sensitive. This does not mean it is more accurate. Accuracy of analysis can be just as good for EDS as with WDS if the analyst takes the same care in sample prep, data gathering, and standardizing. Sensitivity simply means that WDS can detect much smaller amounts of a particular element than EDS. Why? Because the superior resolution provides much better signal to noise ratio than with EDS. Noise, in this case, is mostly contributed by background radiation from the sample. Because of its superior resolution, WDS can also resolve peak overlaps.
AFM as a Problem-Solving Tool in the Graphic Arts
Authors: Bassemir Robert , Costelio Gail , Parris Juanita
Published: March 2018

Opticai and election microscopy have been used extensively as problem solving tools in the graphic arts industry. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a complementary tool to optical and electron microscopy - it provides a high resolution view of areas 150 mm by 150 mm and smaller, images may be viewed in three dimensions and imaging can take place in either air, under liquid, or in a vacuum.

AFM can be used for more than just the three-dimensional imaging of nanoscale features on a sample surface; it can detect friction, adhesion, compliance, thermal properties, and even magnetic signals. AFM images are stored digitally and so the data can be enhanced and viewed in many rays. Algorithms allow the display of a line profile across the image surface at any desired location along with quantitative height information. Average roughness data can also be calculated.
Parasite X-Files
Authors: Armitage Mark
Published: March 2018

As if lifted from the script pages of a previously aired installment of the popular Friday night “istherelifeoutthereism”, one group of microscopic parasitic trematodes will puncture, overrun and terrorize not one, not two, but three distinct and disparate hosts to survive and breed. Known as the Ascocotyle complex of trematode worms, these well-designed hitch-hikers sport a crown of one (Figure 1) and sometimes two rows of 15-20 spines surrounding a very muscular oral sucker (Figure 2), as well as a ventrally placed body sucker and a full complement of smaller, but sharp, body spines (Figure 3), which they employ to prevent easy dislodging from their intended host. The life cycle for these brackish water travelers begins in a brood sac developing within amnicolid snails (such as Cerathidia) which graze the bottom of tidal marshes and ingest the trematode eggs.
Combining Focused Ion Beam and Scanning Electron Microscopy for IC Fab Support and Defect Review
Authors: Tashima Janet , Lindquist Jay
Published: March 2018

The cutting-edge tool for IC fab support and defect review brings together the Focused Ion Beam (FIB) technology with the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) into a single workstation. The twin beam FIB/SEM workstation, FEI Company's DualBeam™ 820 for example, combines the unique micromachining, microdeposition, and analysis capabilities of a FIB with the high resolution imaging power of a Schottky field emission scanning electron microscope (FE SEM). The full functionality of both instruments is available and neither is compromised by the other.
Clean Room Microscopy
Authors: McCrone Walter C , Hertrich James A
Published: March 2018

Small particle contamination analysis requires consideration of secondary contamination of our sampie. Protection of such samples is very important. The procedure for sampling with freshly pulled lengths of clear 3M Magic™ tape is a favorite procedure among forensic microscopists. The tape must be immediately pressed onto a clean surface; usually, a clean microscope slide. There it is protected from further contamination.

Microscopical study and identification is usually possible utilizing the tape backing as a coverslip. Its thickness Is about 56 μm, one-third of the recommended 170 μm, but quite adequate for objectives 4-20X, If you feel persnickety, you can use two thicknesses of the tape, a second one over the sampling tape, This will give you optimum images for 4-40X objectives. Three thicknesses of tape, at 168 μm, is very close to the recommended thickness of 170 μm for any or all objectives.
Upgrades Create Siate-Of-The-Art EPMA Facility
Authors: Sarver Larry W , McCue Terry R
Published: March 2018

A series of upgrades of an Electron Microprobe X-ray Analyzer (EPMA) were made to expand capabilities, increase efficiency, and cut costs. High technology EPUA features were acquired with cost effective expenditures. The driving force for our upgrade was to meet the continuing needs of corporate customers as well as many small companies which come to us for low-cost/high quality EPMA services.
EM Site A.C. Magnetic Field Sources, Surveys and Solutions Part IV: Survey Data Analysis
Authors: Dunnam Curt
Published: March 2018

Up to the present waypoint in this series on EM site magnetic fields, we have identified typical sources of time-varying magnetic field intensities, examined salient field characteristics and illustrated correct survey methods. Our goal this month is to analyze data collected at a proposed site and answer the key question of whether or not the candidate site is, as far as magnetic fields go, acceptable for EM use. In the process of analyzing the magnetic field survey data we will define some of the interpretive techniques involved and observe the distinction between localized (a.c. power) and non-localized (geomagnetic) time-varying fields. Finally, we will discuss the implications of EM susceptibility threshold vs. measured field ratios when considering remedial site shielding.
Preparation of Thin Sections
Authors: Chaplin Ian
Published: March 2018

The optical examination of a rock sample in thin section is the quickest and most economical method for classifying rock type and determining which analytical route to follow.

Thin sections for transmitted light are the most common, but there are also:

Polished Thin Sections • Polished sections are used for classification and identification of minerals that cannot be determined in standard thin sections. They are also essential for microprobe analysis. Minute mineral grains are analyzed by bombarding them with a focused bean of electrons, which generate x-rays, characteristic of the elements within the grains. X-rays are identified and quantified to determine the chemical composition of minerals.
History of High Vacuum and Critical Point Equipment used in EM Specimen Preparation
Authors: Denton Richard A
Published: March 2018

The electron microscope was only possible with the development of high vacuum technology. Mechanical pumps were available early in this century, and Gaede in Germany developed the mercury pump called a “condensation pump” during WWI and in the 1920's. In 1928, Burch in England found that a low vapor pressure oil would work in a mercury pump and the oil diffusion pump was born. They were made by DPI in Rochester, Metropolitan Vickers in England, and Leyboid in Germany. Other oils became available and in the mid-30's, vacuum evaporators were in laboratory use in England, Germany and the United States.

In the 1930's and 40's, the aim was to produce vacuum of 10-4 - 10-5 mm Hg where the mean free path was two feet or more and atoms, molecules and electrons could move this distance with little obstruction. In those days, we were all very happy to get 10-4 - 10-5 without worrying much as to what gas was left.
Determination of Birefringence of Uniaxial Crystals: The Use of Conoscopy for Quantitative Measurements
Authors: Srinivasarao Mohan
Published: March 2018

Often times one is asked the question "how can the optical microscope be used to make quantitative measurements?" The microscope certainly lets one observe the sample {whatever the sample may be) and make qualitative statements about what is it one is looking at. It has been used for various purposes from just visual observation in brightfield, reflection and the one that is near and dear to my heart, observations under crossed polarizers. This certainly allows one to identify materials as being isotropic or anisotropic. If one works on materials like liquid crystals, an optical microscope is a tool that is used all the time. It certainly allows for identification of various phases of liquid crystals based on the defects and textures that can be observed. All of this is somewhat qualitative in nature. By that I mean that the observations do not lend themselves to obtain, say for example, refractive index or birefringence of the material. I would like to describe a technique that will allow one to do just that.
Recent Activities in Environmental Microscopy
Authors: Millette James R
Published: March 2018

The microscope has always played an important part in the field of environmental science. Initially it was involved mostly with those who analyzed for biological indicators of pollution or those who examined air pollution particles, but more recently it is being used by a large number of analysts of particulate samples following the concern over asbestos in schools. With the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) of 1987, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) formally joined polarized light microscopy (PLM) and phase contrast microscopy (PCM) as a recognized regulation-required standard procedure for the analysis of asbestos. While asbestos remains a considerable activity in environmental microscopy, other areas including analysis of nan-asbestos fibers such as ceramic fibers, lead particle source determination, respirable silica measurement, and indoor air qualify particle examination have seen some interesting developments.
History of High Vacuum and Critical Point Equipment used in EM Specimen Preparation
Authors: Denton Richard A
Published: March 2018

An interesting sidelight of building our own 3″ diffusion pumps is that as we built ever larger vacuum equipment, larger pumps were required. Motivated by our success with the 3″ pump, we gradually built a series of larger pumps going up one size at a time to 10″ diameter.

Critical point drying was invented by Tom Anderson and described in his fine paper in 1952. He was a bit ahead of his time as the widespread use of the technique was not until the arrival of the SEM in about 1970.

I became involved in critical point drying when Dr. Gennaro of New York University asked if I could make him a unit.. He sent me a copy of Tom's original paper and we visited Tom's lab for a demonstration.

With Tom's dryer, the chamber opening and closing involved a high pressure threaded seal. Fortunately, he had working with him a man big enough to be a NHL defensive end who manhandled a three foot wrench to seal and unseal the chamber.
Quantitation In Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Rittman Barry R J
Published: March 2018

Valuable information concerning the relative amounts of the end proucts of histochemical and immunochemical reactions present in sections may be provided by qualitative evaluations, however, greater reliance is often placed on quantitative evaluations. Many quantitative evaluations are based on the use of image analysis and optical density readings of the visible end products. An important question is whether these quantitative measurements are reliable, accurate and reproducible, and if quantitation of these reactions offers any real advantage over qualitative evaluations.
Artifacts and Their Sources
Authors:   McCrone Research Institute
Published: March 2018

Artifacts in preparations are sample contaminants and may constitute a nuisance if they are not recognized, or an error if they are mistaken as part of the sample. Most artifacts have two characteristics: they are common substances and they are usually minor or trace components of the sample. Occasionally, artifacts are found as a major part of what is assumed to be the sample; for example, microscopical analysis of a plugged pneumatic valve showed cornstarch as the major component. It was soon discovered that the valve had been sent in a plastic bag dusted with cornstarch. Only one percent of the particles were actual sample.
Her Garter Snapped: Old Problems, Unique Solutions
Authors: Philpott Delbert E
Published: March 2018

In 1946 Indiana U. purchased an electron microscope sight unseen for $600, deciding it was an EM. on the basis of weight. Seeing Dr. Fischer's ad far an assistant, I wondered what an E.M, was. I dashed upstairs to find his office. Having come directly from the airport where I was a pilot. I was dirty and needed a shave. I planned to come back when I had cleaned up. I put my nose against the door to read his small handwriting and office hours. Out he came. We hung together nose to nose as he asked, “Did you want something?” “Poor time to tell you no,” I responded. I got the job in spite of my appearance because, as he told me, I knew photography, could learn the panel on an airplane and wasn't afraid of work. We put the microscope together and it ran! We set up a summer lab course, but he asked me to teach it when he got a sabbatical.
Calculation, Simulation, and Screen Graphic Display of Complex TED Patterns with the PC Program “Pattern”
Authors: Sårbu Corneliu
Published: March 2018

It is well known to electron microscopists working in the field of materials structure research that the importance of transmission electron diffraction patterns (TED) is: (i) establishing the crystallographic orientation correlations revealed during the practical observation of multiphase specimens and (ii) the knowledge of exact crystallographic orientation of a single crystal area in the specimen relating to image contrast interpretation.
X-ray Analysis in the Low Vacuum SEM (Part 3 of 3)
Authors: Chernoff Don
Published: March 2018

In this third and final installment on x-ray analysis in the environmental and low vacuum SEM, I will present experimental methods for measuring beam scatter. In my previous two articles I discussed how operating conditions detemine beam scatter. It was shown that the type of gas used, the gas pressure in the chamber, the working distance or beam gas path length, and the accelerating voltage all have an effect on how much the electron beam scatters. I also discussed how the beam scatter influences x-ray results by producing x-rays beyond the area of the primary beam. Furthermore, I showed how software models could be used to determine the amount of beam scatter based on different combinations of the four variables (pressure, gas, working distance, and kV).
“A Little Nonsense now and then is Relished by the Wisest Men”
Authors: Newberry Sterling P
Published: March 2018

This familiar saying may be a little too risque for sober scientists but surely all of us can accept a substitution of the word humor for the word nonsense. For humor is based on a sense of proportion and fitness of relationships, which is the very essence of the scientific obligation to interpret what we observe. In fact, many of our colleagues insert humorous slides in their very serious talks to help wake up the audience and give them an association for remembering a key point. Do we also remember to use this power of humor when teaching, or otherwise communicating with, a lay audience?

Like it or not we are all required to be teachers to our own circle of support people and should furthermore take advantage of any opportunity to educate the world at large about our work. I should like to give a few examples from my own experience in teaching electron optical practice.
Resins, Anyone???
Authors: Bozzola John J
Published: March 2018

The epoxy resins, especially Spurr's epoxy resin, are time consuming to prepare and dangerous to work with. In an effort to minimize contact time with the resin and to conserve components, we prepare one large batch of resin (minus catalyst) that is then dispensed into glass scintillation vials that are tagged to give the exact weight of resin in the vial, The resins are stored in the freezer (preferably -70° C) until needed at which time they are thawed and the appropriate amount of catalyst added. After mixing by gentle inversions and stirring, the resins are dispensed as needed using widebore pipettes. .Any resin remaining in the vial may be refrozen several times after adding a puff of Freon or dry air to the via!. When the resin becomes too depleted or too old to refreeze, the vial is placed into a 60° C oven and the contents polymerized. The vial may then bs discarded or recycled (i.e., reused) untii the space in the vial is diminished to an unacceptable level.
The Use of SEM and Other Complimentary Techniques for the Determination of Properties of Cementitious Materials
Authors: Draper Eric A , Skalny Jan
Published: March 2018

The need for continued rehabilitation of our concrete infrastructure has lead to the adaptation of modern “state-of-the-art” analytical methods for the characterization of concrete and other cementitious materials. Some of these techniques have not, until relatively recently, been commonly associated with the evaluation of concrete but are very useful both as tools for quality assurance and in the determination of the extent of existing damage. The technique of interest here is the coordinated electron-optical microscopic evaluation of concrete.

Concrete is the most widely used building material in the world. Contrary to popular belief, concrete is not inert but chemically very complex and dynamic. While it is true that, pound for pound, concrete and its raw materials (cement, aggregate and water} are the most inexpensive building materials available for construction, it is also true that it responds to its environment in numerous and sometimes very subtle ways. These responses may sometimes result in a loss of durability and tremendous amounts of time and money being expended while searching for the cause(s) of the problem and providing a cost-effect solution A quick survey of any large metropolitan area and the on-going construction repairs to highways and bridge decks there will quickly confirm this.
Woher wissen, wie es geht?
Authors: Hartz Stefanie , Sauerbrey Ulf
Published: March 2018

Zusammenfassung. Die institutionalisierte und nach Professionalisierung strebende Frühpädagogik verfügt inzwischen über ein breites Wissen, das in entsprechenden Ausbildungen an zahlreiche Berufsgruppen vermittelt wird. Im Vergleich dazu ist über die Herkunft und Entstehung des Wissens über Kleinkindererziehung in Familien sowie über seine Aneignung durch Eltern bislang wenig bekannt. Woher stammt eigentlich frühpädagogisches Wissen von Eltern? Wie wird es im familialen Lebenskontext hervorgebracht? Wie eignen Eltern es sich an? Im Beitrag werden Ergebnisse aus einer explorativen Untersuchung, in deren Rahmen problemzentrierte Interviews mit Müttern geführt und anschließend inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet wurden, vorgestellt. Es werden weiterführende Fragen zur qualitativen Rekonstruktion elterlichen Wissens über Kleinkindererziehung entwickelt.
Understanding High-Latitude Methane in a Warming Climate
Authors: Miller Scot , Taylor Meghan , Watts Jennifer
Published: March 2018

Climate change could spur greenhouse gas release from the Arctic. A new project will synthesize existing data to improve uncertain predictions.
Immunosuppressive effect of arsenic trioxide on islet xenotransplantation prolongs xenograft survival in mice
Authors: Zhao Bin , Xia Jun-jie , Wang Lu-min , Gao Chang , Li Jia-li , Liu Jia-yin , Cheng Qi-jun , Dai Chen , Ma Qi-lin , Qi Zhong-quan , Zhao Ben-hua
Published: March 2018

The role of arsenic trioxide (As2O3) in inhibiting immune rejection and prolonging islet allograft survival has been identified in islet allotransplantation. This study aims to explore the role of As2O3 in islet xenotransplantation and the action mechanism. The streptozotocin (STZ) was used in C57BL/6 mice to induce the type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) for xenotransplantation models establishment. Donor islets were isolated by digesting. The flow cytometry (FCM) was used to analyze lymphocyte types. The blood sugar level was detected by using intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT). The serum level of cytokines was determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA). The cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay. The mRNA levels were quantified with qRT-PCR. As2O3 prolonged the survival of the recipient mice but had no influence on body weight. As2O3 protected the function of xenograft in insulin secretion and suppressed immune rejection of recipient. As2O3 inhibited proliferation of T lymphocyte and increased the proportion of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in recipient mice. As2O3 inhibited activation and promoted clonal anergy of T lymphocyte. As2O3 decreased total number of B cells and reduced partial antibody levels in recipient mice. As2O3 and leflunomide showed a synergistic effect in suppressing islet xenotransplant rejection. As2O3 prolongs islet xenograft survival by inhibiting cellular immune response, and increasing Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, while decreasing partial antibody levels in serum.
ZFR coordinates crosstalk between RNA decay and transcription in innate immunity
Authors: Haque Nazmul , Ouda Ryota , Chen Chao , Ozato Keiko , Hogg J. Robert
Published: March 2018

Control of type I interferon production is crucial to combat infection while preventing deleterious inflammatory responses, but the extent of the contribution of post-transcriptional mechanisms to innate immune regulation is unclear. Here, we show that human zinc finger RNA-binding protein (ZFR) represses the interferon response by regulating alternative pre-mRNA splicing. ZFR expression is tightly controlled during macrophage development; monocytes express truncated ZFR isoforms, while macrophages induce full-length ZFR to modulate macrophage-specific alternative splicing. Interferon-stimulated genes are constitutively activated by ZFR depletion, and immunostimulation results in hyper-induction of interferon β (IFNβ/IFNB1). Through whole-genome analyses, we show that ZFR controls interferon signaling by preventing aberrant splicing and nonsense-mediated decay of histone variant macroH2A1/H2AFY mRNAs. Together, our data suggest that regulation of ZFR in macrophage differentiation guards against aberrant interferon responses and reveal a network of mRNA processing and decay that shapes the transcriptional response to infection.
Neighbourhood interactions drive overyielding in mixed-species tree communities
Authors: Fichtner Andreas , Härdtle Werner , Bruelheide Helge , Kunz Matthias , Li Ying , von Oheimb Goddert
Published: March 2018

Theory suggests that plant interactions at the neighbourhood scale play a fundamental role in regulating biodiversity–productivity relationships (BPRs) in tree communities. However, empirical evidence of this prediction is rare, as little is known about how neighbourhood interactions scale up to influence community BPRs. Here, using a biodiversity–ecosystem functioning experiment, we provide insights into processes underlying BPRs by demonstrating that diversity-mediated interactions among local neighbours are a strong regulator of productivity in species mixtures. Our results show that local neighbourhood interactions explain over half of the variation in observed community productivity along a diversity gradient. Overall, individual tree growth increased with neighbourhood species richness, leading to a positive BPR at the community scale. The importance of local-scale neighbourhood effects for regulating community productivity, however, distinctly increased with increasing community species richness. Preserving tree species diversity at the local neighbourhood scale, thus seems to be a promising way for promoting forest productivity.
Enhancing optical microscopy illumination to enable quantitative imaging
Authors: Agocs Emil , Attota Ravi Kiran
Published: March 2018

There has been an increasing push to derive quantitative measurements using optical microscopes. While several aspects of microscopy have been identified to enhance quantitative imaging, non-uniform angular illumination asymmetry (ANILAS) across the field-of-view is an important factor that has been largely overlooked. Non-uniform ANILAS results in loss of imaging precision and can lead to, for example, less reliability in medical diagnoses. We use ANILAS maps to demonstrate that objective lens design, illumination wavelength and location of the aperture diaphragm are significant factors that contribute to illumination aberrations. To extract the best performance from an optical microscope, the combination of all these factors must be optimized for each objective lens. This requires the capability to optimally align the aperture diaphragm in the axial direction. Such optimization enhances the quantitative imaging accuracy of optical microscopes and can benefit applications in important areas such as biotechnology, optical metrology, and nanotechnology.
Differential expression pattern of co-inhibitory molecules on CD4+ T cells in uncomplicated versus complicated malaria
Authors: Abel Annemieke , Steeg Christiane , Aminkiah Francis , Addai-Mensah Otchere , Addo Marylyn , Gagliani Nicola , Casar Christian , Yar Denis Dekugmen , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Jacobs Thomas , Mackroth Maria Sophia
Published: March 2018

The immune response of malaria patients is a main factor influencing the clinical severity of malaria. A tight regulation of the CD4+ T cell response or the induction of tolerance have been proposed to contribute to protection from severe or clinical disease. We therefore compared the CD4+ T cell phenotypes of Ghanaian children with complicated malaria, uncomplicated malaria, asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) infection or no infection. Using flow cytometric analysis and automated multivariate clustering, we characterized the expression of the co-inhibitory molecules CTLA-4, PD-1, Tim-3, and LAG-3 and other molecules implicated in regulatory function on CD4+ T cells. Children with complicated malaria had higher frequencies of CTLA-4+ or PD-1+ CD4+ T cells than children with uncomplicated malaria. Conversely, children with uncomplicated malaria showed a higher proportion of CD4+ T cells expressing CD39 and Granzyme B, compared to children with complicated malaria. In contrast, asymptomatically infected children expressed only low levels of co-inhibitory molecules. Thus, different CD4+ T cell phenotypes are associated with complicated versus uncomplicated malaria, suggesting a two-sided role of CD4+ T cells in malaria pathogenesis and protection. Deciphering the signals that shape the CD4+ T cell phenotype in malaria will be important for new treatment and immunization strategies.
Modelling 3D craniofacial growth trajectories for population comparison and classification illustrated using sex-differences
Authors: Matthews Harold S. , Penington Anthony J. , Hardiman Rita , Fan Yi , Clement John G. , Kilpatrick Nicola M. , Claes Peter D.
Published: March 2018

Many disorders present with characteristic abnormalities of the craniofacial complex. Precise descriptions of how and when these abnormalities emerge and change during childhood and adolescence can inform our understanding of their underlying pathology and facilitate diagnosis from craniofacial shape. In this paper we develop a framework for analysing how anatomical differences between populations emerge and change over time, and for binary group classification that adapts to the age of each participant. As a proxy for a disease-control comparison we use a database of 3D photographs of normally developing boys and girls to examine emerging sex-differences. Essentially we define 3D craniofacial ‘growth curves’ for each sex. Differences in the forehead, upper lip, chin and nose emerge primarily from different growth rates between the groups, whereas differences in the buccal region involve different growth directions. Differences in the forehead, buccal region and chin are evident before puberty, challenging the view that sex differences result from pubertal hormone levels. Classification accuracy was best for older children. This paper represents a significant methodological advance for the study of facial differences between growing populations and comprehensively describes developing craniofacial sex differences.
Ixonnexin from Tick Saliva Promotes Fibrinolysis by Interacting with Plasminogen and Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator, and Prevents Arterial Thrombosis
Authors: Assumpção Teresa C. , Mizurini Daniella M. , Ma Dongying , Monteiro Robson Q. , Ahlstedt Sydney , Reyes Morayma , Kotsyfakis Michail , Mather Thomas N. , Andersen John F. , Lukszo Jan , Ribeiro José M. C. , Francischetti Ivo M. B.
Published: March 2018

Tick saliva is a rich source of modulators of vascular biology. We have characterized Ixonnexin, a member of the “Basic-tail” family of salivary proteins from the tick Ixodes scapularis. Ixonnexin is a 104 residues (11.8 KDa), non-enzymatic basic protein which contains 3 disulfide bonds and a C-terminal rich in lysine. It is homologous to SALP14, a tick salivary FXa anticoagulant. Ixonnexin was produced by ligation of synthesized fragments (51–104) and (1–50) followed by folding. Ixonnexin, like SALP14, interacts with FXa. Notably, Ixonnexin also modulates fibrinolysis in vitro by a unique salivary mechanism. Accordingly, it accelerates plasminogen activation by tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) with Km 100 nM; however, it does not affect urokinase-mediated fibrinolysis. Additionally, lysine analogue ε-aminocaproic acid inhibits Ixonnexin-mediated plasmin generation implying that lysine-binding sites of Kringle domain(s) of plasminogen or t-PA are involved in this process. Moreover, surface plasmon resonance experiments shows that Ixonnexin binds t-PA, and plasminogen (KD 10 nM), but not urokinase. These results imply that Ixonnexin promotes fibrinolysis by supporting the interaction of plasminogen with t-PA through formation of an enzymatically productive ternary complex. Finally, in vivo experiments demonstrates that Ixonnexin inhibits FeCl3-induced thrombosis in mice. Ixonnexin emerges as novel modulator of fibrinolysis which may also affect parasite-vector-host interactions.
Bone-related Circulating MicroRNAs miR-29b-3p, miR-550a-3p, and miR-324-3p and their Association to Bone Microstructure and Histomorphometry
Authors: Feichtinger Xaver , Muschitz Christian , Heimel Patrick , Baierl Andreas , Fahrleitner-Pammer Astrid , Redl Heinz , Resch Heinrich , Geiger Elisabeth , Skalicky Susanna , Dormann Rainer , Plachel Fabian , Pietschmann Peter , Grillari Johannes , Hackl Matthias , Kocijan Roland
Published: March 2018

The assessment of bone quality and the prediction of fracture risk in idiopathic osteoporosis (IOP) are complex prospects as bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTM) do not indicate fracture-risk. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are promising new biomarkers for bone diseases, but the current understanding of the biological information contained in the variability of miRNAs is limited. Here, we investigated the association between serum-levels of 19 miRNA biomarkers of idiopathic osteoporosis to bone microstructure and bone histomorphometry based upon bone biopsies and µCT (9.3 μm) scans from 36 patients. Four miRNAs were found to be correlated to bone microarchitecture and seven miRNAs to dynamic histomorphometry (p < 0.05). Three miRNAs, namely, miR-29b-3p, miR-324-3p, and miR-550a-3p showed significant correlations to histomorphometric parameters of bone formation as well as microstructure parameters. miR-29b-3p and miR-324-p were found to be reduced in patients undergoing anti-resorptive therapy. This is the first study to report that serum levels of bone-related miRNAs might be surrogates of dynamic histomorphometry and potentially reveal changes in bone microstructure. Although these findings enhance the potential value of circulating miRNAs as bone biomarkers, further experimental studies are required to qualify the clinical utility of miRNAs to reflect dynamic changes in bone formation and microstructure.
Burst mode pumping: A new mechanism of drinking in mosquitoes
Authors: Kikuchi Kenji , Stremler Mark A. , Chatterjee Souvick , Lee Wah-Keat , Mochizuki Osamu , Socha John J.
Published: March 2018

Mosquitoes transport liquid foods into the body using two muscular pumps in the head. In normal drinking, these pumps reciprocate in a stereotyped pattern of oscillation, with a high frequency but small stroke volume. Do mosquitoes modulate their neuromotor programs for pumping to produce different drinking modes? More broadly, what are the mechanical consequences of a two-pump system in insects? To address these questions, we used synchrotron x-ray imaging and fluid mechanical modeling to investigate drinking performance in mosquitoes. X-ray imaging of the pumps during drinking revealed two modes of pumping: continuous reciprocation with multiple small strokes, and a newly discovered ‘burst mode’ involving a single, large-volume stroke. Results from modeling demonstrate that burst mode pumping creates a very large pressure drop and high volume flow rate, but requires a massive increase in power, suggesting that continuous pumping is more economical for drinking. Modeling also demonstrates that, from one mode of pumping to the other, the mechanical role of the individual pumps changes. These results suggest that the advantage of a two-pump system in insects lies in its flexibility, enabling the animal to pump efficiently or powerfully as demanded by environmental considerations.
Spin injection and magnetoresistance in MoS2-based tunnel junctions using Fe3Si Heusler alloy electrodes
Authors: Rotjanapittayakul Worasak , Pijitrojana Wanchai , Archer Thomas , Sanvito Stefano , Prasongkit Jariyanee
Published: March 2018

Recently magnetic tunnel junctions using two-dimensional MoS2 as nonmagnetic spacer have been fabricated, although their magnetoresistance has been reported to be quite low. This may be attributed to the use of permalloy electrodes, injecting current with a relatively small spin polarization. Here we evaluate the performance of MoS2-based tunnel junctions using Fe3Si Heusler alloy electrodes. Density functional theory and the non-equilibrium Green’s function method are used to investigate the spin injection efficiency (SIE) and the magnetoresistance (MR) ratio as a function of the MoS2 thickness. We find a maximum MR of ~300% with a SIE of about 80% for spacers comprising between 3 and 5 MoS2 monolayers. Most importantly, both the SIE and the MR remain robust at finite bias, namely MR > 100% and SIE > 50% at 0.7 V. Our proposed materials stack thus demonstrates the possibility of developing a new generation of performing magnetic tunnel junctions with layered two-dimensional compounds as spacers.
Appearance Constrained Semi-Automatic Segmentation from DCE-MRI is Reproducible and Feasible for Breast Cancer Radiomics: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Veeraraghavan Harini , Dashevsky Brittany Z. , Onishi Natsuko , Sadinski Meredith , Morris Elizabeth , Deasy Joseph O. , Sutton Elizabeth J.
Published: March 2018

We present a segmentation approach that combines GrowCut (GC) with cancer-specific multi-parametric Gaussian Mixture Model (GCGMM) to produce accurate and reproducible segmentations. We evaluated GCGMM using a retrospectively collected 75 invasive ductal carcinoma with ERPR+ HER2− (n = 15), triple negative (TN) (n = 9), and ER-HER2+ (n = 57) cancers with variable presentation (mass and non-mass enhancement) and background parenchymal enhancement (mild and marked). Expert delineated manual contours were used to assess the segmentation performance using Dice coefficient (DSC), mean surface distance (mSD), Hausdorff distance, and volume ratio (VR). GCGMM segmentations were significantly more accurate than GrowCut (GC) and fuzzy c-means clustering (FCM). GCGMM’s segmentations and the texture features computed from those segmentations were the most reproducible compared with manual delineations and other analyzed segmentation methods. Finally, random forest (RF) classifier trained with leave-one-out cross-validation using features extracted from GCGMM segmentation resulted in the best accuracy for ER-HER2+ vs. ERPR+/TN (GCGMM 0.95, expert 0.95, GC 0.90, FCM 0.92) and for ERPR + HER2− vs. TN (GCGMM 0.92, expert 0.91, GC 0.77, FCM 0.83).
Genetic connectivity from the Arctic to the Antarctic: Sclerolinum contortum and Nicomache lokii (Annelida) are both widespread in reducing environments
Authors: Eilertsen Mari H. , Georgieva Magdalena N. , Kongsrud Jon A. , Linse Katrin , Wiklund Helena , Glover Adrian G. , Rapp Hans T.
Published: March 2018

The paradigm of large geographic ranges in the deep sea has been challenged by genetic studies, which often reveal putatively widespread species to be several taxa with more restricted ranges. Recently, a phylogeographic study revealed that the tubeworm Sclerolinum contortum (Siboglinidae) inhabits vents and seeps from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Here, we further test the conspecificity of the same populations of S. contortum with additional mitochondrial and nuclear markers. We also investigate the genetic connectivity of another species with putatively the same wide geographic range - Nicomache lokii (Maldanidae). Our results support the present range of S. contortum, and the range of N. lokii is extended from vents and seeps in the Nordic Seas to mud volcanoes in the Barbados Trench and Antarctic vents. Sclerolinum contortum shows more pronounced geographic structure than N. lokii, but whether this is due to different dispersal capacities or reflects the geographic isolation of the sampled localities is unclear. Two distinct mitochondrial lineages of N. lokii are present in the Antarctic, which may result from two independent colonization events. The environmental conditions inhabited by the two species and implications for their distinct habitat preference is discussed.
Situations restructure the congruency between action and valence in the action-evaluation effect
Authors: Wang Hanlin , Xie Jiushu , Mo Ce , He Xianyou , Wang Ruiming , Yu Rongjun , Mo Lei
Published: March 2018

The action-evaluation effect indicates that the processing of affective valence is affected by bodily actions. However, whether this effect is based on bodily simulation or situational priming is unknown. Moreover, P2 is a neural marker for this effect, suggesting the integration between valence and actions. Whether the P2 component is modulated by the situation is also unknown. In this study, we tested this effect in multiple situations to examine (1) whether this effect is dependent on the situation and (2) the amplitude of P2 is modulated by the situation. During the experiments, participants pushed/pulled computer mice to verify the valence of affective words in far-near (Experiment 1), front-back (Experiments 2a-2b), and up-down (Experiments 3a-3b) situations. Pulling (or pushing) mice responding to positive (or negative) words were treated as the congruent condition, while the opposite combination was the incongruent condition. In the far-near situation, participants’ response times were faster and the amplitude of the P2 component was smaller in the congruent condition than the incongruent one; however, these results were reversed in other situations. The results suggested that the congruency of action-evaluation effect was restructured by the situation. Therefore, the action-evaluation effect might be based on situational priming.
Differential Regulation of Genes Involved in Root Morphogenesis and Cell Wall Modification is Associated with Salinity Tolerance in Chickpea
Authors: Kaashyap Mayank , Ford Rebecca , Kudapa Himabindu , Jain Mukesh , Edwards Dave , Varshney Rajeev , Mantri Nitin
Published: March 2018

Salinity is a major constraint for intrinsically salt sensitive grain legume chickpea. Chickpea exhibits large genetic variation amongst cultivars, which show better yields in saline conditions but still need to be improved further for sustainable crop production. Based on previous multi-location physiological screening, JG 11 (salt tolerant) and ICCV 2 (salt sensitive) were subjected to salt stress to evaluate their physiological and transcriptional responses. A total of ~480 million RNA-Seq reads were sequenced from root tissues which resulted in identification of 3,053 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to salt stress. Reproductive stage shows high number of DEGs suggesting major transcriptional reorganization in response to salt to enable tolerance. Importantly, cationic peroxidase, Aspartic ase, NRT1/PTR, phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinase, DREB1E and ERF genes were significantly up-regulated in tolerant genotype. In addition, we identified a suite of important genes involved in cell wall modification and root morphogenesis such as dirigent proteins, expansin and casparian strip membrane proteins that could potentially confer salt tolerance. Further, phytohormonal cross-talk between ERF and PIN-FORMED genes which modulate the root growth was observed. The gene set enrichment analysis and functional annotation of these genes suggests they may be utilised as potential candidates for improving chickpea salt tolerance.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: The Nuclear Orphan Receptor Nur77 Alleviates Palmitate-induced Fat Accumulation by Down-regulating G0S2 in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Zhao Naiqian , Li Xiaoyan , Feng Ying , Han Jinxiang , Feng Ziling , Li Xifeng , Wen Yanfang
Published: March 2018

Excessive triglyceride accumulation in hepatocytes is the hallmark of obesity-associated nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Elevated levels of the saturated free fatty acid palmitate in obesity are a major contributor to excessive hepatic lipid accumulation. The nuclear orphan receptor Nur77 is a transcriptional regulator and a lipotoxicity sensor. Using human HepG2 hepatoma cells, this study aimed to investigate the functional role of Nur77 in palmitate-induced hepatic steatosis. The results revealed that palmitate significantly induced lipid accumulation and suppressed lipolysis in hepatocytes. In addition, palmitate significantly suppressed Nur77 expression and stimulated the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and its target genes. Nur77 overexpression significantly reduced palmitate-induced expression of PPARγ and its target genes. Moreover, Nur77 overexpression attenuated lipid accumulation and augmented lipolysis in palmitate-treated hepatocytes. Importantly, G0S2 knockdown significantly attenuated lipid accumulation and augmented lipolysis in palmitate-treated hepatocytes, whereas G0S2 knockdown had no effect on the palmitate-induced expression of Nur77, PPARγ, or PPARγ target genes. In summary, palmitate suppresses Nur77 expression in HepG2 cells, and Nur77 overexpression alleviates palmitate-induced hepatic fat accumulation by down-regulating G0S2. These results display a novel molecular mechanism linking Nur77-regulated G0S2 expression to palmitate-induced hepatic steatosis.
Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4 Channel Deficiency Aggravates Tubular Damage after Acute Renal Ischaemia Reperfusion
Authors: Mannaa Marwan , Markó Lajos , Balogh András , Vigolo Emilia , N’diaye Gabriele , Kaßmann Mario , Michalick Laura , Weichelt Ulrike , Schmidt–Ott Kai M. , Liedtke Wolfgang B. , Huang Yu , Müller Dominik N. , Kuebler Wolfgang M. , Gollasch Maik
Published: March 2018

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) cation channels are functional in all renal vascular segments and mediate endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation. Moreover, they are expressed in distinct parts of the tubular system and activated by cell swelling. Ischaemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is characterized by tubular injury and endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, we hypothesised a putative organ protective role of TRPV4 in acute renal IRI. IRI was induced in TRPV4 deficient (Trpv4 KO) and wild–type (WT) control mice by clipping the left renal pedicle after right–sided nephrectomy. Serum creatinine level was higher in Trpv4 KO mice 6 and 24 hours after ischaemia compared to WT mice. Detailed histological analysis revealed that IRI caused aggravated renal tubular damage in Trpv4 KO mice, especially in the renal cortex. Immunohistological and functional assessment confirmed TRPV4 expression in proximal tubular cells. Furthermore, the tubular damage could be attributed to enhanced necrosis rather than apoptosis. Surprisingly, the percentage of infiltrating granulocytes and macrophages were comparable in IRI–damaged kidneys of Trpv4 KO and WT mice. The present results suggest a renoprotective role of TRPV4 during acute renal IRI. Further studies using cell–specific TRPV4 deficient mice are needed to clarify cellular mechanisms of TRPV4 in IRI.
Waist circumference is a mediator of dietary pattern in Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Ghaemi Alireza , Hosseini Narjes , Osati Saeed , Naghizadeh Mohammad mehdi , dehghan Azizallah , Ehrampoush Elham , Honarvar Behnam , Homayounfar Reza
Published: March 2018

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an example of pathological fat accumulation in the liver and one of the major health conditions in the world. This study aimed to examine the independent role of dietary patterns in the development of NAFLD. In a cross-sectional study, 1500 individuals referred to a nutrition clinic were randomly selected, their demographic, anthropometric and blood metabolic indices were obtained, and food frequency questionnaires were completed for them. Liver stiffness was calculated using the NAFLD score formula and fibroscan. The two dominant dietary patterns identified were the “healthy” and “unhealthy dietary patterns”. A significant percentage of those with NAFLD (45%) were in the upper quartile of the unhealthy model; however, only 10% had the healthy pattern (p < 0.001). In this study, 32.9 and 13.9% of the healthy and unhealthy participants were in the upper quartile of the healthy diet pattern. Also, it was shown that waist circumference is a strong mediator of dietary patterns and NAFLD relationship, and the indirect effect of diet through abdominal circumference is 28 times greater than the direct effect on NAFLD. The results suggested that healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns are respectively associated with lower- and higher-risk of NAFLD but the role of waist circumference as a mediator deserves more consideration.