bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fasten und Ernährung bei Multipler Sklerose
Authors: Michalsen Andreas
Published: September 2017

Das periodische und intermittierende Fasten sowie eine niedrig-glykämische ketogene Ernährung können sich positiv auf den Krankheitsverlauf bei Multipler Sklerose auswirken. Experimentelle Studien zeigen für das regelmäßige intermittierende Fasten eine kurative und präventive Wirkung auf MS und weitere neurodegenerative Erkrankungen wie M. Parkinson und Demenz. Experimentelle Studien zeigen bei MS unter ketogener Ernährung entzündungshemmende und neuroprotektive Wirkungen. Für die sichere klinische Einschätzung sind die Ergebnisse weiterer Studien abzuwarten. Patienten mit MS ist eine pflanzenbasierte, vegetarisch betonte Vollwerternährung zu empfehlen.

Der Beitrag stellt die Studienergebnisse vor und erklärt, welche Lebensmittel Patienten mit MS bevorzugen bzw. zurückhaltend zu sich nehmen sollten.
The mental health of politicians
Authors: Weinberg Ashley
Published: September 2017

This article considers why mental health is important in our workplaces, including elected political positions on which the effective functioning of our democracy depends. It looks at the job of the politician and its particular challenges, and argues there is a need to ensure that working conditions for all occupations are positive, and why we need to include our elected representatives. The potential consequences for the effective functioning of democracy are also explored and reflections given on where we should we go from here. A recent UK government mantra “No health without mental health” means that some politicians are starting to recognize the value of our psychological well-being as much as that of our physical health—although we might argue this still is nowhere near enough. There seems a long way to go before the reality—and the funding—matches our hopes. Sure enough we all take responsibility for our well-being, but the psychological impact of our working and social environments is well known and governments ignoring this important aspect of our health and functioning in their policies on health and work risk compromising their nation’s competitiveness. Perhaps it does not help that as citizens we can be sceptical of the role of our politicians in making important decisions that shape the world in which we live, yet if we turn away from scrutinizing their behaviour we risk compounding the issue and compromising our own well-being too.
Spectral response of steady-state photoluminescence from GaAs1-xPx layers grown on a SiGe/Si system
Authors: Wang Li , Pollard Michael E. , Juhl Mattias Klaus , Conrad Brianna , Soeriyadi Anastasia , Li Dun , Lochtefeld Anthony , Gerger Andrew , Bagnall Darren M. , Barnett Allen , Perez-Wurfl Ivan
Published: September 2017

Measuring the spectral response of photoluminescence (SRPL) in solar cells has recently attracted attention as it can be used as a contactless relative measure of external quantum efficiency (EQE) prior to full device fabrication. However, this technique requires that the monitored PL spectrum originates mainly from a region in the solar cell with uniformly distributed majority carriers. For a stack of thin films with a similar material composition, the slightly different emission spectrum from each layer may lead to the superposition of several luminescence peaks. This letter presents the measurement of the SRPL from GaAsP tandem solar cells and outlines a method for separating the individual layer contributions. Good agreement between measured SRPL and EQE at short wavelengths has been achieved, and the deviations at longer wavelengths have been analyzed. This study also reveals unexpected bandgap narrowing resulting from a variable material composition within the active region.
Nonlinear dynamics in the study of birdsong
Authors: Mindlin Gabriel B.
Published: September 2017

Birdsong, a rich and complex behavior, is a stellar model to understand a variety of biological problems, from motor control to learning. It also enables us to study how behavior emerges when a nervous system, a biomechanical device and the environment interact. In this review, I will show that many questions in the field can benefit from the approach of nonlinear dynamics, and how birdsong can inspire new directions for research in dynamics.
Nonlinear terahertz metamaterials with active electrical control
Authors: Keiser G. R. , Karl N. , Liu P. Q. , Tulloss C. , Chen H.-T. , Taylor A. J. , Brener I. , Reno J. L. , Mittleman D. M.
Published: September 2017

We present a study of an electrically modulated nonlinear metamaterial consisting of an array of split-ring resonators fabricated on n-type gallium arsenide. The resonant metamaterial nonlinearity appears as an intensity-dependent transmission minimum at terahertz frequencies and arises from the interaction between local electric fields in the split-ring resonator (SRR) capacitive gaps and charge carriers in the n-type substrate. We investigate the active tuning range of the metamaterial device as the incident terahertz field intensity is increased and conversely the effect of an applied DC bias on the terahertz field-induced nonlinear modulation of the metamaterial response. Applying a DC bias to the metamaterial sample alters the nonlinear response and reduces the net nonlinear modulation. Similarly, increasing the incident terahertz field intensity decreases the net modulation induced by an applied DC bias. We interpret these results in terms of DC and terahertz-field-assisted carrier acceleration, scattering, and multiplication processes, highlighting the unique nature of this DC-field modulated terahertz nonlinearity.
Evolution of superoscillations for Schrödinger equation in a uniform magnetic field
Authors: Colombo F. , Gantner J. , Struppa D. C.
Published: September 2017

Aharonov-Berry superoscillations are band-limited functions that oscillate faster than their fastest Fourier component. Superoscillations appear in several fields of science and technology, such as Aharonov’s weak measurement in quantum mechanics, in optics, and in signal processing. An important issue is the study of the evolution of superoscillations using the Schrödinger equation when the initial datum is a weak value. Some superoscillatory functions are not square integrable, but they are real analytic functions that can be extended to entire holomorphic functions. This fact leads to the study of the continuity of a class of convolution operators acting on suitable spaces of entire functions with growth conditions. In this paper, we study the evolution of a superoscillatory initial datum in a uniform magnetic field. Moreover, we collect some results on convolution operators that appear in the theory of superoscillatory functions using a direct approach that allows the convolution operators to have non-constant coefficients of polynomial type.
A smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) study of sediment dispersion on the seafloor
Authors: Tran-Duc Thien , Phan-Thien Nhan , Khoo Boo Cheong
Published: September 2017

Ocean-scale sediment dispersion and sedimentation problems are studied using the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH). A SPH formulation based on a mixture model for two-phase flows is developed to investigate the problem. The sediment mass transport via the settling advection and the turbulent diffusion of the suspended sediment are fully accounted for in the current SPH model. The simulations are carried out in an opened boundary domain with a unidirectional underlined current, with relevant deposition/re-suspension boundary conditions on the seafloor. The factors influencing the sedimentation process, such as the hindering and the bottom shear stress effects, are also considered. The simulation results reveal that the sediment convection near the sediment source location is caused by both the ocean current and secondary density driven flows that are created by the concurrent settling motion of suspended sediment particles, while the downstream sediment transport in the far field is only driven by the ocean current. The peak sediment concentration in the ambient ocean water is found to correlate with the sediment release rate, and the settlement rate is inversely proportional to the initial height of the disturbed sediment.
VQS (vapor-quasiliquid-solid, vapor-quasisolid-solid) mechanism presents a unified foundation for the syntheses of nanotubes, primarily carbon nanotubes
Authors: Mohammad S. Noor
Published: September 2017

Nanotubes are synthesized almost entirely by metal-catalyst-free and metal-catalyst-mediated non-eutectic mechanism(s). An investigation has been carried out to understand the basics of this mechanism. Various possible chemical and physical processes involved in nanotube synthesis have been researched. Various components and attributes of nanotube synthesis have been evaluated. Phase transitions, alloy formation, porosity, carrier transport and the fundamentals underlying them have been examined. Nanoparticle surfaces conducive to nanotube synthesis have been examined. The role of surface treatment, which includes oxidation, oxygenation, acid treatment, plasma treatment, water treatment, sputtering, etc in creating such surfaces, has been investigated. The role of surface treatment and phase transitions as functions of temperature, pressure, ambient, contaminants, surface amorphicity, etc in creating diffusion paths for the diffusion of growth species for supersaturation and nucleation has been explored. Interdiffusion of catalyst and source materials, and hence exchange of materials, on the nanoparticle surface, have been elucidated. This exchange of materials on catalyst surface appears to add a new dimension to the synthesis kinetics. Integrated together, they reveal a general mechanism for probably all metal-catalyst-free and metal-catalyst-mediated non-eutectic nanotube synthesis. Available experiments strongly support the proposed mechanism; they suggest that this mechanism has a broad appeal.
Microfluidic single-cell array platform enabling week-scale clonal expansion under chemical/electrical stimuli
Authors: Luo Tao , Hou Jundi , Chen Shuxun , Chow Yu-Ting , Wang Ran , Ma Dongce , Zhu Rong , Sun Dong
Published: September 2017

Single-cell culture represents the most straightforward method for investigating cellular heterogeneity. In this paper, we present a novel microfluidic platform that can individually array and culture hundreds of cells under chemical and electrical stimuli for week-scale characterization. Single cells can be deterministically and gently captured in a microchamber array on the proposed platform. The size of the microchamber can be adjusted to fit different cell culture times, and this characteristic enables remarkable scalability. Transparent indium tin oxide microelectrodes were integrated with the single-cell array platform for on-chip electrical stimuli. The platform exhibited nearly 90% single-cell efficiency and facilitated week-scale clonal expansion of different types of single cells. Chemical and electrical stimuli affected proliferation and differentiation of MC 3T3-E1 cells were examined on the chip prototype that contained 416 (32 rows × 13 columns) microchambers, and each microchamber had 1 mm diameter. By tracking clonal expansion of cells under chemical/electrical stimuli for relatively long periods, the proposed platform can facilitate the screening of the cell subpopulation with a favorable growth phenotype for drug testing and cell therapy.
High resolution steady-state measurements of thermal contact resistance across thermal interface material junctions
Authors: Warzoha Ronald J. , Donovan Brian F.
Published: September 2017

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are meant to reduce the interfacial thermal resistance (RT) across bare metal contacts in commercial electronics packaging systems. However, there is little scientific consensus governing material design for optimized thermal performance. This is principally due to the inability to separate the effects of the intrinsic material thermal properties from the magnitude of heat flow crossing the TIM-substrate junction (RC). To date, efforts to isolate these effects using standard thermal interface material characterization techniques have not been successful. In this work, we develop an infrared thermography-based steady-state heat meter bar apparatus with a novel in situ thickness measurement system having 0.5 nm sensitivity. These in situ thickness measurements allow us to simultaneously determine RT and RC independently across current state-of-the-art TIMs with ±5% uncertainty. In this work, thermal pastes with bond line thicknesses ranging between 5 and 50 μm are used to illustrate the capability of the apparatus to measure extremely thin materials that are expected to achieve relatively low values of RT. Results suggest that the contribution of the thermal contact resistance to the total thermal resistance can range from 5% to 80% for these materials. This finding highlights the need for appropriate metrology and independent measurements of RC and RT to better optimize thermal interface materials for a number of important electronics applications.
Asymmetric disturbance effect on the flow over a wavy cylinder at a subcritical Reynolds number
Authors: Yoon Hyun Sik , Shin Hyein , Kim Hyoju
Published: September 2017

A new geometric disturbance giving the reductions of the drag and lift fluctuations for bluff body flows has been proposed by applying the asymmetry to a symmetric wavy (SW) geometry. This asymmetric wavy (ASW) disturbance is applied on a circular cylinder to identify its effect on the flow control, forming the asymmetric wavy (ASW) cylinder. The turbulent flow over an ASW cylinder is investigated at a subcritical Reynolds number of 3000 using large eddy simulation based on the finite volume method. The findings of the present study identify that the ASW disturbance achieves more reductions in the mean drag and the lift fluctuation than the optimal wavy cylinder. The branch-like formation of the additional streamwise and transverse vorticities observed in the ASW cylinder are dissipated farther upstream than the symmetric wavy (SW) cylinder, resulting in wider regions of the zero vorticities in the near-wake. The ASW cylinder formed the asymmetric distribution of flow and the extent of the coherent flow farther downstream. The vortex formation length of the ASW cylinder reveals the asymmetric distribution along the span and is much longer than that of the smooth and SW cylinders. This comparison of the vortex formation length also proves the capacity of the ASW geometric disturbance to reduce the drag and lift fluctuation than the SW cylinder.
A coherent detection technique via optically biased field for broadband terahertz radiation
Authors: Du Hai-Wei , Dong Jia-Meng , Liu Yi , Shi Chang-Cheng , Wu Jing-Wei , Peng Xiao-Yu
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate theoretically and experimentally a coherent terahertz detection technique based on an optically biased field functioning as a local oscillator and a second harmonic induced by the terahertz electric field in the air sensor working in free space. After optimizing the polarization angle and the energy of the probe pulse, and filling the system with dry nitrogen, the terahertz radiation generated from a two-color-femtosecond-laser-pulses induced plasma filament is measured by this technique with a bandwidth of 0.1-10 THz and a signal-to-noise ratio of 48 dB. Our technique provides an alternative simple method for coherent broadband terahertz detection.
Minority carrier diffusion length, lifetime and mobility in p-type GaAs and GaInAs
Authors: Niemeyer M. , Ohlmann J. , Walker A. W. , Kleinschmidt P. , Lang R. , Hannappel T. , Dimroth F. , Lackner D.
Published: September 2017

Minority carrier diffusion lengths and lifetimes were determined for p-type Ga(1-x)InxAs with an In-content of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.53 by cathodoluminescence and time-resolved photoluminescence measurements respectively under low injection conditions; the resulting minority carrier mobilities are also reported. Highly p-doped samples (3 × 1018 cm−3) demonstrate a constant minority carrier diffusion length of (5.0 ± 0.7) μm and a constant lifetime of (3.7 ± 0.7) ns for an In-content up to 21%. Lower doped samples (3 × 1017 cm−3), on the other hand, show an increase in minority carrier diffusion length and lifetime with In-content from (6.3 ± 0.2) μm and (6.2 ± 0.5) ns respectively for GaAs to (14 ± 2) μm and (24.4 ± 0.5) ns respectively for Ga0.79In0.21As. Increasing the In-content to 53% results in a drop in the minority carrier diffusion length independently of the p-doping concentration .This is interpreted as a change in the energy of the Shockley-Read-Hall trap levels within the bandgap as a function of indium concentration.
In situ observation of the impact of surface oxidation on the crystallization mechanism of GeTe phase-change thin films by scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Berthier R. , Bernier N. , Cooper D. , Sabbione C. , Hippert F. , Noé P.
Published: September 2017

The crystallization mechanisms of prototypical GeTe phase-change material thin films have been investigated by in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy annealing experiments. A novel sample preparation method has been developed to improve sample quality and stability during in situ annealing, enabling quantitative analysis and live recording of phase change events. Results show that for an uncapped 100 nm thick GeTe layer, exposure to air after fabrication leads to composition changes which promote heterogeneous nucleation at the oxidized surface. We also demonstrate that protecting the GeTe layer with a 10 nm SiN capping layer prevents nucleation at the surface and allows volume nucleation at a temperature 50 °C higher than the onset of crystallization in the oxidized sample. Our results have important implications regarding the integration of these materials in confined memory cells.
Longitudinal identification of clinically distinct neurophenotypes in young children with fragile X syndrome
Authors: Bruno Jennifer L. , Romano David , Mazaika Paul , Lightbody Amy A. , Hazlett Heather Cody , Piven Joseph , Reiss Allan L.
Published: September 2017

Significance

We present a research study that uses early structural brain growth as a metric for defining subgroups within individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS). Topological data analysis, a type of multivariate pattern classification, identified two large subgroups based solely on the longitudinal structural brain images. Post hoc analysis indicated significant, unidirectional differences in cognition, adaptive functioning, and autism severity scores. Our results support the use of longitudinal topological data analysis (TDA) as a putative tool for differentiating individuals with FXS based on neuroanatomical data. This information may be used to predict outcomes and guide design of targeted therapies for individuals with FXS. Longitudinal TDA may be a useful analysis tool to explore variation in other neuropsychiatric disorders.
Extinction risk is most acute for the world’s largest and smallest vertebrates
Authors: Ripple William J. , Wolf Christopher , Newsome Thomas M. , Hoffmann Michael , Wirsing Aaron J. , McCauley Douglas J.
Published: September 2017

Significance

Determining the drivers of extinction risk has been a key pursuit of conservation biology. Considering that body mass could be a strong predictor of extinction risk, we constructed a global database of body masses for 27,647 vertebrate species. Results show that the smallest- and largest-bodied vertebrates have elevated extinction risk. The largest vertebrates are mostly threatened by direct killing by humans, whereas the smallest species are more likely to have restricted geographic ranges—an important predictor of extinction risk—and be threatened by habitat degradation. Declines of large and small vertebrate species will truncate the size distributions characterizing these taxa, jeopardizing ecosystem services to humans, and generating cascading ecological and evolutionary effects on other species and processes.
Transparent, conformable, active multielectrode array using organic electrochemical transistors
Authors: Lee Wonryung , Kim Dongmin , Matsuhisa Naoji , Nagase Masae , Sekino Masaki , Malliaras George G. , Yokota Tomoyuki , Someya Takao
Published: September 2017

Significance

We have developed a transparent, ultraflexible, and active multielectrode array (MEA), which consists of transparent organic electrochemical transistors and transparent Au grid wirings. The micropatterned Au grid showed 60% transparency at 475-nm wavelength. The transparent active MEA showed the spatial mapping of electrocorticogram electrical signals from an optogenetic rat with 1-mm spacing and shows lower light artifacts than noise level.
TPC2 polymorphisms associated with a hair pigmentation phenotype in humans result in gain of channel function by independent mechanisms
Authors: Chao Yu-Kai , Schludi Verena , Chen Cheng-Chang , Butz Elisabeth , Nguyen O. N. Phuong , Müller Martin , Krüger Jens , Kammerbauer Claudia , Ben-Johny Manu , Vollmar Angelika M. , Berking Carola , Biel Martin , Wahl-Schott Christian A. , Grimm Christian
Published: September 2017

Significance

Polymorphisms in the endolysosomal cation channel TPC2 have been suggested to lead to a shift in human hair color from brown to blond. In two further studies a role for TPC2 in melanosomal pH regulation was postulated. Electrophysiological data on how these polymorphisms affect channel gating and activity are, however, missing. We show here that both polymorphisms lead to a gain of channel function by different mechanisms. In M484L sensitivity to its endogenous ligand PI(3,5)P
2
is strongly increased while in G734E channel inactivation by ATP is reduced. These findings are corroborated by molecular dynamics and ion substitution experiments. Furthermore, >100 blond- and brown/black-haired human individuals were genotyped and fibroblasts isolated from selected donors to confirm key in vitro findings.
Leaderless secreted peptide signaling molecule alters global gene expression and increases virulence of a human bacterial pathogen
Authors: Do Hackwon , Makthal Nishanth , VanderWal Arica R. , Rettel Mandy , Savitski Mikhail M. , Peschek Nikolai , Papenfort Kai , Olsen Randall J. , Musser James M. , Kumaraswami Muthiah
Published: September 2017

Significance

Regulation of virulence factor production is critical for bacterial pathogenesis. The human pathogen group A
Streptococcus
(GAS) produces a potent secreted protease, streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin B (SpeB), that is crucial for pathogenesis. Although it is known that GAS produces SpeB at high population density, the molecular mechanism whereby GAS coordinates temporal SpeB production is unknown. Here, we identify a GAS-encoded short leaderless intercellular peptide signal [SpeB-inducing peptide (SIP)], and define the mechanism by which SIP induces population-wide SpeB production and contributes to GAS virulence. Furthermore, discovery of SIP provides a framework for the identification of SIP-like leaderless peptide signals in other microorganisms. Thus, our data reveal a paradigm of bacterial signaling and identify previously unknown molecules that may serve as therapeutic targets.
Antagonism correlates with metabolic similarity in diverse bacteria
Authors: Russel Jakob , Røder Henriette L. , Madsen Jonas S. , Burmølle Mette , Sørensen Søren J.
Published: September 2017

Significance

Diverse species from all over the bacterial tree of life produce antibiotics to limit the growth of competitors and thereby enhance their resource availability. Here we examined the pairwise inhibition between bacterial species from natural settings. We find that bacteria mainly inhibit the growth of metabolically similar and evolutionary related species, in line with Darwin’s age old competition-relatedness hypothesis. We further find that inhibiting the growth of other species is associated with a generalist lifestyle, suggesting a trade-off between specialists efficiently growing on few resources and generalists who are able to use many resources but have to inhibit the specialists to obtain them.
Critical role of caveolin-1 in ocular neovascularization and multitargeted antiangiogenic effects of cavtratin via JNK
Authors: Jiang Yida , Lin Xianchai , Tang Zhongshu , Lee Chunsik , Tian Geng , Du Yuxiang , Yin Xiangke , Ren Xiangrong , Huang Lijuan , Ye Zhimin , Chen Wei , Zhang Fan , Mi Jia , Gao Zhiqin , Wang Shasha , Chen Qishan , Xing Liying , Wang Bin , Cao Yihai , Sessa William C. , Ju Rong , Liu Yizhi , Li Xuri
Published: September 2017

Significance

Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is a major structural protein of caveolae found in cell membranes and is critical for numerous cellular functions. However, it remains unclear whether Cav-1 plays a role in ocular neovascularization, a major cause of blindness. In this study, we found that the gene deletion of Cav-1 exacerbates ocular neovascularization, and cavtratin, a cell permeable peptide mimicking Cav-1 function, inhibits ocular neovascularization by targeting multiple critical components of angiogenesis. Importantly, combined administration of cavtratin and anti–VEGF-A inhibits neovascularization more effectively, suggesting at least a partially VEGF-A–independent effect of cavtratin. Our findings reveal multitargeted effects of caveolin-1 and cavtratin in ocular neovascularization that may be of great therapeutic value for antiangiogenic therapy.
Defective decidualization during and after severe preeclampsia reveals a possible maternal contribution to the etiology
Authors: Garrido-Gomez Tamara , Dominguez Francisco , Quiñonero Alicia , Diaz-Gimeno Patricia , Kapidzic Mirhan , Gormley Matthew , Ona Katherine , Padilla-Iserte Pablo , McMaster Michael , Genbacev Olga , Perales Alfredo , Fisher Susan J. , Simón Carlos
Published: September 2017

Significance

We provide evidence of a decidualization defect in the endometrium of women with severe preeclampsia (PE) that was detected at the time of delivery and persisted years after the affected pregnancy. We went on to link this defect to impaired cytotrophoblast invasion. The transcriptional signature of the defect could enable its detection before (or after) conception, which would aid the development of therapies focused on improving decidualization and perhaps preventing severe PE.
Host modification of a bacterial quorum-sensing signal induces a phenotypic switch in bacterial symbionts
Authors: Pietschke Cleo , Treitz Christian , Forêt Sylvain , Schultze Annika , Künzel Sven , Tholey Andreas , Bosch Thomas C. G. , Fraune Sebastian
Published: September 2017

Significance

Specific bacterial communities colonize epithelial surfaces of most animals. In the last years many host mechanisms that control bacterial community composition have been identified. In contrast, only a few mechanisms are known that allow the host to target the behavior of its bacterial colonizers. We identified a eukaryotic mechanism based on an oxidoreductase activity, which enables the cnidarianHydrato modify bacterial quorum-sensing (QS) molecules. The modification of QS signals leads to a phenotypic switch in the bacterial symbionts and promotes colonization of host tissue.
NCoR1-independent mechanism plays a role in the action of the unliganded thyroid hormone receptor
Authors: Mendoza Arturo , Astapova Inna , Shimizu Hiroaki , Gallop Molly R. , Al-Sowaimel Lujain , MacGowan S. M. Dileas , Bergmann Tim , Berg Anders H. , Tenen Danielle E. , Jacobs Christopher , Lyubetskaya Anna , Tsai Linus , Hollenberg Anthony N.
Published: September 2017

Significance

Thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) mediate the genomic actions of thyroid hormones. In the absence of T3 (3,3′,5-triiodothyronine), the TR recruits a multiprotein repressor complex that decreases histone acetylation in the vicinity of target genes. Nuclear receptor corepressor 1 (NCoR1) is hypothesized to be the main corepressor that interacts with TR. Here we report that the deletion of NCoR1 does not prevent all gene repression and histone deacetylation across a variety of mouse models, whereas only the lack of TR was able to overturn the effects of hypothyroidism. Thus, we conclude that NCoR1 is not sufficient to mediate the actions of the unliganded TR; furthermore, our data suggest that alternative mechanisms of repression may be involved in the action of TRs.
Single master regulatory gene coordinates the evolution and development of butterfly color and iridescence
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Mazo-Vargas Anyi , Reed Robert D.
Published: September 2017

Significance

The
optix
gene is well known for its genetic association with wing pattern variation in butterflies; however, its actual function has never been directly confirmed. Using CRISPR genome editing in multiple butterfly species, we show that this gene plays a fundamental and deeply conserved role in the butterfly family Nymphalidae, where it acts as an activator of wing color. We were also surprised to discover that
optix
simultaneously controls blue iridescence in some species as well, providing an example of how a single gene can act as a switch to coordinate between structural and pigmentary coloration.
Isolation of exosomes from whole blood by integrating acoustics and microfluidics
Authors: Wu Mengxi , Ouyang Yingshi , Wang Zeyu , Zhang Rui , Huang Po-Hsun , Chen Chuyi , Li Hui , Li Peng , Quinn David , Dao Ming , Suresh Subra , Sadovsky Yoel , Huang Tony Jun
Published: September 2017

Significance

We have developed a unique, integrated, on-chip technology that is capable of isolating exosomes or other types of extracellular vesicles, directly from undiluted whole-blood samples in an automated fashion. Automated exosome isolation enables biohazard containment, short processing time, reproducible results with little human intervention, and convenient integration with downstream exosome analysis units. Our method of integrating acoustics and microfluidics leads to the isolation of exosomes with high purity and yield. With its label-free, contact-free, and biocompatible nature, it offers the potential to preserve the structures, characteristics, and functions of isolated exosomes. This automated, point-of-care device can further help in advancing exosome-related biomedical research with potential applications in health monitoring, disease diagnostics, and therapeutics.
Evolution of the 3-hydroxypropionate bicycle and recent transfer of anoxygenic photosynthesis into the Chloroflexi
Authors: Shih Patrick M. , Ward Lewis M. , Fischer Woodward W.
Published: September 2017

Significance

Photosynthesis supports life on our planet; however, we know very little about the origins of this metabolism. Anoxygenic photosynthesis existed prior to the evolution of its more complex counterpart, oxygenic photosynthesis. It is not known which groups of microbes performed anoxygenic photosynthesis on early Earth; one idea has argued that anoxygenic photosynthesis evolved in the bacterial phylum Chloroflexi. We compared the genomes of different members of the Chloroflexi, finding that acquisition of photosynthesis and their unique carbon fixation metabolism evolved remarkably late in Earth history—a time long after the rise of oxygen in the atmosphere.
Small genome symbiont underlies cuticle hardness in beetles
Authors: Anbutsu Hisashi , Moriyama Minoru , Nikoh Naruo , Hosokawa Takahiro , Futahashi Ryo , Tanahashi Masahiko , Meng Xian-Ying , Kuriwada Takashi , Mori Naoki , Oshima Kenshiro , Hattori Masahira , Fujie Manabu , Satoh Noriyuki , Maeda Taro , Shigenobu Shuji , Koga Ryuichi , Fukatsu Takema
Published: September 2017

Significance

Beetles are successful in the terrestrial ecosystem, which is attributable to, at least partly, their highly sclerotized exoskeleton. Here, we report a bacterial symbiont extremely specialized for underpinning the beetle’s hardness. The ancient endosymbiont
Nardonella
associated with weevils has an extremely small genome devoted to a single biological function, tyrosine provisioning, which is needed for insect’s cuticle formation and hardening. Notably, only the final step reaction of the tyrosine synthesis pathway is complemented by host-encoded aminotransferases up-regulated in the bacteriome, highlighting a highly focused aspect of the host–symbiont metabolic integrity. Both symbiont suppression by an antibiotic and RNA interference of the host aminotransferases induce reddish and soft weevils, verifying the pivotal role of the symbiosis for the beetle’s hardness.
Immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif–dependent functions of an MHC class I-specific NK cell receptor
Authors: Bern Michael D. , Beckman Diana L. , Ebihara Takashi , Taffner Samantha M. , Poursine-Laurent Jennifer , White J. Michael , Yokoyama Wayne M.
Published: September 2017

Significance

Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic immune cells that are regulated by inhibitory receptors, such as murine Ly49s, that bind to MHC class I (MHC-I). Cancer immunotherapies are currently in clinical trial that target inhibitory NK-cell receptors analogous to checkpoint inhibitors that block inhibitory receptors on T cells. To improve checkpoint blockade of NK cells, it is critical to better understand the in vivo functions of inhibitory NK-cell receptors. Here, we developed a knock-in mouse with a targeted mutation predicted to abolish the signaling motif of the inhibitory receptor Ly49A. This mutant mouse revealed multiple mechanisms by which inhibitory receptor signaling controls NK-cell self-tolerance that could impact the efficacy of checkpoint blockade of NK cells.
TrkB neurotrophic activities are blocked by α-synuclein, triggering dopaminergic cell death in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Kang Seong Su , Zhang Zhentao , Liu Xia , Manfredsson Fredric P. , Benskey Matthew J. , Cao Xuebing , Xu Jun , Sun Yi E. , Ye Keqiang
Published: September 2017

Significance

Alpha-synuclein plays an important role in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD), however the molecular mechanisms related to α-synuclein in neurodegeneration of PD remain unknown. We show that α-synuclein specifically inhibits BDNF/TrkB signaling, leading to dopaminergic neuronal death. The disruption of this interaction rescues TrkB signaling, preventing α-Syn–induced dopaminergic neuronal death and restoring motor functions. This study reveals the mechanism related to α-synuclein–induced neurotoxicity of PD via regulation of TrkB neurotrophic signaling.
The Northern Subject Rule in the Irish diaspora
Authors: Bonness Dania Jovanna
Published: September 2017

This article examines the Northern Subject Rule in the Irish diaspora, studying letters from two generations of an Ulster emigrant family in 19th-century New Zealand. The study shows that the concord pattern frequently used by the parent generation almost completely disappeared in the language of their New Zealand-born children. The results suggest that the children skipped the stage of “extreme variability” that is claimed to be characteristic of the language of the first colony-born immigrants in the new-dialect formation framework (Trudgill 2004). This study aims to contribute to work on early New Zealand English grammar (e.g. Hundt 2012, 2015a, 2015b; Hundt and Szmrecsanyi 2012) and it adds new insights into the formation of New Zealand English. It, furthermore, contributes to research on dialect contact between Irish English and other colonial varieties of English as well as new-dialect formation.
Negative concord in the language of British adults and teenagers
Authors: Palacios Ignacio M.
Published: September 2017

Negative concord (NC) (e.g.I don’t know nobody in Havering) has been the focus of a considerable number of diachronic as well as sociolinguistic studies, mainly in terms of its pervasiveness in the most common varieties of English. This paper contributes to the existing literature on the topic by examining NC in the language of British adults and teenagers. The findings, based on the analysis of data from three comparable adult and teenager corpora, indicate that: (i) NC is much more frequent in teenagers than in adults; (ii) the language of teenagers shows a wider variety of NC patterns than that of adults; (iii) the number of multiple negatives (e.g.I don’t want nothing to do with you no more) is not as common as expected, and they are found mainly in the expression of teenagers; (iv) pragmatically speaking, NC structures may be used to accentuate a negative meaning, although they are often equivalent to single negatives.
A new Rab7 effector controls phosphoinositide conversion in endosome maturation
Authors: Casanova James E. , Winckler Bettina
Published: September 2017

Endosome maturation requires a coordinated change in the Rab GTPase and phosphoinositide composition of the endosomal membrane. In this issue, Liu et al. (2017. J. Cell Biol. https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201705151) identify WDR91 as a ubiquitous Rab7 effector that inhibits phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity on endosomes and is critical for endosome maturation, viability, and dendrite growth of neurons in vivo.
For wind turbines in complex terrain, the devil is in the detail
Authors: Lange Julia , Mann Jakob , Berg Jacob , Parvu Dan , Kilpatrick Ryan , Costache Adrian , Chowdhury Jubayer , Siddiqui Kamran , Hangan Horia
Published: September 2017

The cost of energy produced by onshore wind turbines is among the lowest available; however, onshore wind turbines are often positioned in a complex terrain, where the wind resources and wind conditions are quite uncertain due to the surrounding topography and/or vegetation. In this study, we use a scale model in a three-dimensional wind-testing chamber to show how minor changes in the terrain can result in significant differences in the flow at turbine height. These differences affect not only the power performance but also the life-time and maintenance costs of wind turbines, and hence, the economy and feasibility of wind turbine projects. We find that the mean wind, wind shear and turbulence level are extremely sensitive to the exact details of the terrain: a small modification of the edge of our scale model, results in a reduction of the estimated annual energy production by at least 50% and an increase in the turbulence level by a factor of five in the worst-case scenario with the most unfavorable wind direction. Wind farm developers should be aware that near escarpments destructive flows can occur and their extent is uncertain thus warranting on-site field measurements.
Distinctive Symptoms and Signs of Downy Mildew on Cold-Climate Wine Grape Cultivars
Authors: Jones David S. , McManus Patricia S.
Published: September 2017

Downy mildew, caused Plasmopara viticola, is a major disease affecting grape production worldwide. While the symptoms and signs of downy mildew on European wine grapes (Vitis vinifera) are well documented, minimal information is available regarding the symptoms and signs on cold-hardy cultivars that are crosses of V. vinifera and Vitis species native to North America. Referred to as “cold-climate cultivars,” these hybrids have been released over the past two decades and form the basis of a burgeoning wine industry in the northern United States. Most research on downy mildew of grape has involved V. vinifera, and consequently, many images used for educational purposes illustrate “classic” symptoms and signs on highly susceptible cultivars of V. vinifera. However, we have observed that such images can be inconsistent with symptomology in the cold-climate grape hybrids, and there are differences in the symptoms and signs of downy mildew among cold-climate cultivars. These inconsistencies can result in incorrect diagnosis, which can lead to poor management decisions, including application of products that are not appropriate for the pathogen(s) present. Thus, the objective of the current guide is to describe downy mildew symptoms and signs on cold-climate cultivars, with special attention to features that are not documented in resources widely used for grape disease diagnosis.
Impact of Foliar Fungicides on Gibberella Ear Rot and Deoxynivalenol Levels in Indiana Corn
Authors: Anderson N. R. , Romero Luna M. P. , Ravellette J. D. , Wise K. A.
Published: September 2017

Gibberella ear rot, caused by the fungus Fusarium graminearum (Schawbe), can cause significant yield reductions in corn (Zea mays L.) as well as reduce grain quality. Field experiments were conducted at two locations in Indiana to assess the impact of commercially available fungicides on Gibberella ear rot severity and deoxynivalenol (DON) accumulation in hybrid corn grain. The experiments were arranged in a random complete block design with both inoculated and noninoculated treatments. Three fungicides—azoxystrobin + propiconazole, prothioconazole, and pyraclostrobin—were applied during silking (R1), and Gibberella ear rot severity, DON accumulation in grain, and corn yield were measured. Inoculated treatments had higher disease severity and DON and lower yield (P < 0.001) compared with noninoculated treatments. Fungicides reduced Gibberella ear rot severity in two location-years, but did not reduce DON in those experiments. All other fungicide treatments in all locations and years did not reduce disease severity or DON when compared with treatments not sprayed with fungicide. No fungicide increased DON levels in grain in any location or year. These results indicate that fungicide applications during the silking stage of corn may not consistently reduce DON levels in hybrid corn.
ASCOT: Autologous Bone Marrow Stem Cell Use for Osteoarthritis of the Thumb—First Carpometacarpal Joint
Authors: Murphy Matthew P. , Buckley Christina , Sugrue Conor , Carr Emma , O’Reilly Aine , O’Neill Shane , Carroll Sean M.
Published: September 2017

Background:

The first carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) in the hand is a commonly affected joint by osteoarthritis. It causes significant thumb base pain, limiting functional capacity. Microfracturing and application of autologous stem cells has been performed on large joints such as the knee but has never been evaluated for use in the smaller joints in the hand. Our aim was to determine the potential benefit of microfracturing and autologous bone marrow stem cells for treatment of osteoarthritis of the first CMCJ in the hand.

Methods:

All inclusion criteria were satisfied. Preoperative assessment by the surgeon, physiotherapist, and occupational therapist was performed. The first CMCJ was microfractured and the Bone Marrow Stem Cells were applied directly. Postoperatively, the patients were followed up for 1 year.

Results:

Fifteen patients met inclusion criteria; however, 2 patients were excluded due to postoperative cellulitis and diagnosis of De Quervain's tenosynovitis. The mean scores of the 13-patient preoperative and 1 year follow-up assessments are visual analog score at rest of 3.23–1.69 (P = 0.0292), visual analog score on activity of 7.92–4.23 (P = 0.0019), range of motion 45.77o–55.15o (P = 0.0195), thumb opposition score 7.62–9.23 (P = 0.0154), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score of 51.67–23.08 (P = 0.0065). Strength improved insignificantly from 4.7 kg preoperatively to 5.53 kg at 12 months (P = 0.1257). All patients had a positive Grind test preoperatively and a negative test after 12 months.

Conclusions:

This innovative pilot study is a new approach to osteoarthritis of the thumb.
Genetic Variant Near PLXDC2 Influences the Risk of Primary Open-angle Glaucoma by Increasing Intraocular Pressure in the Japanese Population
Authors: Mabuchi Fumihiko , Mabuchi Nakako , Takamoto Mitsuko , Sakurada Yoichi , Yoneyama Seigo , Kashiwagi Kenji , Iijima Hiroyuki , Yamagata Zentaro , Aihara Makoto , Iwata Takeshi , Araie Makoto
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to assess the association between the genetic variants that were previously reported to be associated with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in the Japanese population and the phenotypic features.

Methods:

A total of 661 Japanese patients including 417 patients with POAG [normal tension glaucoma (NTG), n=210; high tension glaucoma (HTG), n=207] and 244 control subjects without glaucoma were analyzed for 3 genetic variants: rs547984 (near gene: ZP4), rs7081455 (PLXDC2), and rs7961953 (TMTC2). The allele frequency differences between POAG (NTG or HTG) patients and control subjects were estimated. The association between these genetic variants and the phenotypic features, including the maximum intraocular pressure (IOP) and the vertical cup-to-disc ratio, was evaluated.

Results:

There was a significant difference in the rs7081455 (PLXDC2) allele frequencies between the POAG (P=0.0050) patients and the control subjects. An almost 1.5 increase in the risk of POAG (P=0.0042, odds ratio 1.52) was found with a G allele of rs7081455 (PLXDC2). The maximum IOP [23.5±10.3 mm Hg (mean±SD)] in patients with the GG genotype of rs7081455 (PLXDC2) was significantly higher (P=0.0037) than that (19.9±7.4 mm Hg) in patients with the TT genotype.

Conclusions:

The genetic variant near the PLXDC2 gene was found to influence the risk of POAG by increasing IOP in the Japanese population.
The Burden of Mental Illness Among Veterans
Authors: Maynard Charles , Batten Adam , Liu Chuan-Fen , Nelson Karin , Fihn Stephan D
Published: September 2017

Background:

Little is known about how Veterans with service-connected conditions use health care provided by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Objectives:

To ascertain what proportion of Veterans with service-connected conditions used VHA health care and whether it varied according to type of condition, combined disability rating, age, sex, military rank, or other characteristics and whether there were differences in receipt of inpatient and outpatient care.

Research Design:

Cross-sectional analysis of administrative benefits and claims data for 2015 and 2016.

Subjects:

In total, 4,029,672 Veterans who had an active award status for service-connected conditions in October 2016.

Measures:

Independent variables included age, sex, military rank, service branch, combined disability rating, Agent Orange exposure, and type of service-connected condition. The key-dependent variable was VHA health care use including specific types of health care utilization such as inpatient and outpatient services.

Results:

In total, 52% of those with service-connected conditions used VHA health care. Type of condition and disability rating were associated with use. Over 65% of those with major depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Agent Orange exposure, or diabetes used VHA health care, as did 76% of those with a 100% rating. Almost one third of users of VHA health care were compensated for PTSD. In general, both inpatient and outpatient mental health services were frequently used by Veterans with service-connected mental health conditions.

Conclusions:

Veterans with service-connected conditions, particularly those with diabetes or mental illness such as depression or PTSD, depend heavily upon VHA for health care, including mental health services.