bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Masked translation priming with cognates and noncognates: Is there an effect of words’ concreteness?
Authors: FERRÉ PILAR , SÁNCHEZ-CASAS ROSA , COMESAÑA MONTSERRAT , DEMESTRE JOSEP
Published: March 2016

In the domain of bilingualism, a main issue of interest has been to determine whether the two languages are shared at a conceptual level and which variables modulate the access to the conceptual system. In this study, we focused on the effects of two variables related to word-type. We tested proficient unbalanced Spanish–English bilinguals in a masked translation priming paradigm conducted in the two translation directions (L1 to L2, and L2 to L1), by orthogonally manipulating for the first time concreteness and cognate status. The stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) was also manipulated (50 ms vs 100 ms). Results revealed modulations in masked priming effects as a function of cognate status and translation direction. However, the effect of concreteness was only observed at the long SOA. The findings are discussed in light of the most relevant models of bilingual memory, mainly the Distributed Feature Model (de Groot, 1992a).
Towards a bioecological model of bilingual development
Authors: WEISLEDER ADRIANA
Published: March 2016

At its best, the field of bilingualism is a dynamic discipline informed by diverse perspectives. Carroll's critical review – situated within a linguistics framework – contends that current research on bilingual exposure and language development suffers from a lack of theoretical clarity, and makes little contribution to our understanding of bilingual acquisition. Carroll's push (Carroll) towards greater precision in our thinking about the relation between input and outcomes is an important and welcome challenge. However, it is also critical to keep in mind the social context that motivates much of the current research on bilingual development, and to leave room for studies whose main goal is to provide answers to societally important questions about bilingual children's health and development.
Therapie der Gicht
Authors: Ankli Barbara , Krähenbühl Stephan
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Trotz Fortschritten in Diagnostik und therapeutischem Armentarium sind die meisten Gicht-Patienten ungenügend therapiert. Die internationalen Guidelines (EULAR, ACR, 3e initiative) geben klare Therapieziele an (Schubfreiheit und stabile Harnsäurespiegel unter 360 µmol/l). Die Erreichung dieser Ziele wird durch eine z. T. mangelnde Patienten-Compliance und fehlende Adhärenz von ärztlicher Seite her erschwert. Zudem unterliegen die Gicht-Patienten oft mehreren Komorbiditäten wie Metabolischem Syndrom, kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen und Niereninsuffizienz. Die Patientengruppe mit fortgeschrittener Niereninsuffizienz ist am schwierigsten zu therapieren, so ist die Auswahl der antientzündlichen und harnsäuresenkenden Medikamente limitiert und die Dosierung muss angepasst werden, zudem neigen diese Patienten zu rezidivierenden Schüben. Die Tendenz in den Guidelines zeigt über die Jahre eine breitere Indikationsstellung für eine Harnsäuresenkung, eine obligate Schubprophylaxe für mehrere Monate bei Therapiebeginn der Harnsäuresenker und bei akutem Schub ein sofortiger Beginn der Harnsäuresenkung, sobald die Symptome am Abklingen sind. Das bevorzugte Schubtherapeutikum bleibt Colchizin, das unter gewissen Vorsichtsmassnahmen niedrigdosiert gut wirksam und nebenwirkungsarm ist. Daneben sind NSAR und Steroide als Schubtherapeutika zu nennen. Seit einigen Jahren stellen Interleukin-1 Blocker eine rasch wirksame Schubtherapie bei speziellen Indikationen wie chronischer Gicht und schwergradiger Niereninsuffizienz dar. Harnsäuresenker Nr. 1 bleiben die Xanthinoxidasehemmer, im Vordergrund steht weiterhin Allopurinol, das neuere Febuxostat kann bei Niereninsuffizienz bis zu einer GFR von 30 ml/min in unveränderter Dosis gegeben werden. Die Uricosurica werden in Kombination mit einem Xanthinoxidasehemmer empfohlen, falls die Monotherapie ungenügend ist und noch eine genügende Nierenfunktion besteht. In der Schweiz ist einzig Probenecid auf dem Markt. Uricase bewirkt eine rasche Harnsäuresenkung, ist aber nur in Ausnahmefällen, wie schwerer tophöser Gicht, indiziert. Ein immer grösseres Augenmerk liegt neben der medikamentösen Therapie auf der Patientenschulung und den Lifestylemassnahmen. Die Patientenschulung kann die Compliance verbessern, und ein rascheres Erreichen der Therapieziele ermöglichen. Die meisten Gicht-Patienten werden in der hausärztlichen Sprechstunde betreut, Patienten mit therapierefraktärer Gicht (rezidivierende Schübe, Tophi, erosive Arthritis), schwer niereninsuffiziente oder transplantierte Patienten benötigen zusätzlich eine rheumatologische Betreuung.
Gicht – Neues zur Epidemiologie
Authors: Ankli Barbara
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Gicht ist zur häufigsten Arthritis bei Erwachsenen geworden, die Prävalenz ist über die letzten Dekaden deutlich gestiegen. Patienten über 65 Jahre und Männer sind prädominant vertreten. Das Geschlechterverhältnis beträgt 4:1, nach der Menopause nimmt die Inzidenz der Gicht bei Frauen dann deutlich zu. Das Risiko, an einer Gicht zu erkranken, steigt bei einer Hyperurikämie linear mit dem Harnsäurespiegel.an. Weitere Risikofaktoren sind genetische Prädisposition, Alter, männliches Geschlecht, Adipositas, Ernährungsfaktoren, chronische Niereninsuffizienz und Diuretika-Einnahme. Viele Gicht-Patienten leiden unter Komorbiditäten. Neben dem Metabolischem Syndrom zeigt sich auch für die chronische Niereninsuffizienz eine eindrücklich Assoziation: 40 – 50 % der Gicht-Patienten leiden an einer chronischen Niereninsuffizienz. Gründe für die Zunahme der Prävalenz der Gicht sind in der längeren Lebenserwartung, der Aenderung der Ernährungsgewohnheiten und der Zunahme der chronisch niereninsuffizienten Patienten in der Gesamtbevölkerung zu suchen.
Histo-Pathophysiologie der Gichtarthritis
Authors: Hügle Thomas , Krenn Veit
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Gicht ist eine häufige Ursache von entzündlichen Arthritiden und deformierenden Knochenerosionen. Die zugrundeliegende zelluläre und subzelluläre Entzündungsreaktion ist leider nur teilweise verstanden. Das Inflammasom als intrazellulärer Sensor von Uratkristallen führt zur Freisetzung von Interleukin (IL)-1. Histologisch führt die Anreicherung von Uratkristallen in der Synovialmembran zu deren Hyperplasie und zu einer Fibrinablagerung. In einem zweiten Schritt wandern neutrophile Leukozyten ein und es kommt zur Lymphozytenproliferation. Neutrophile Leukozyten induzieren NETs, welche wiederum entzündliche Zytokine degradieren können. Im Verlauf kommt es zudem zur vermehrten Expression von Tumor Nekrose Faktor (TNF)-Rezeptoren, welche als natürliche TNF-Hemmer wirken. Auch eine vermehrte IL-10 Expression ist beim Abklingen der Entzündung beteiligt. Bei der chronischen Gicht werden Tophi von Histiozyten und Riesenzellen umrandet. Herum bildet sich durch Fibrozyten eine fibrotische Reaktion mit vermehrter extrazellulärer Matrix. Auch hier kommt es zur Lymphozytenproliferation, wahrscheinlich einer Th-2 Polarisation welche die Fibrose weiter fördert. Lymphozyten sind durch die Bildung von RANK-Ligand auch an der Stimulierung von Osteoklasten und damit Knochenerosionen beteiligt. Zusammenfassend kann das Verständnis der Entzündungsreaktion bei der Gichtarthritis dabei helfen, neue therapeutische Ansätze zu entwickeln.
Harnsäure, Nierenerkrankungen und Nephrolithiasis
Authors: Kim Min Jeong , Hopfer Helmut , Mayr Michael
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Verschiedene Nierenerkrankungen können mit erhöhten Harnsäurewerten einhergehen, wobei die pathophysiologischen Vorgänge sich stark unterscheiden. Dies ist nicht nur von akademischer Bedeutung, sondern hat auch wichtige therapeutische Konsequenzen. Während ein massiver und plötzlicher Harnsäure-Anfall im Rahmen eines Tumor-Lyse-Syndroms zum akuten Nierenversagen führen kann, liegen der umstrittenen chronischen Urat-Nephropathie dauerhaft erhöhte Harnsäurewerte zugrunde. Möglicherweise ist hier das entscheidende Agens aber gar nicht die Hyperurikämie per se, sondern Blei, zumindest gibt es diese Assoziation. Bei der Nephrolithiasis mit Harnsäuresteinen ist der entscheidende Faktor nicht wie zu vermuten wäre eine Hyperurikämie oder Hyperurikosurie, sondern eine Azidifikationsstörung auf renaler Ebene mit persistierend tiefem Urin-pH. Es gibt starke Hinweise, dass die beiden metabolischen Erkrankungen Adipositas und der Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 mit Insulinresistenz wichtige pathophysiologische Faktoren in der Entstehung dieser Azidifikationsstörung sind. Patienten mit Harnsäuresteinen sollten deshalb immer auf das Vorliegen dieser metabolischen Faktoren abgeklärt und dementsprechend behandelt werden.
Harnsäure und Niere
Authors: Kim Min Jeong , Mayr Michael
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Die Niere spielt bei der Ausscheidung der Harnsäure eine zentrale Rolle. Eine verbesserte Kenntnis der Physiologie der tubulären Harnsäure-Transporter hilft zu verstehen, weshalb es unabhängig der exogenen Zufuhr von Purinen zu Zuständen der Hyper- und Hypourikämie kommen kann. Neben genetischen Veränderungen haben auch Medikamente und spezifische klinische Zustände einen signifikanten Einfluss auf die Harnsäureausscheidung und somit auf die Harnsäurewerte im Serum. Es mag offensichtlich erscheinen, dass auch die Nierenfunktion per se einen grossen Einfluss auf die Harnsäureausscheidung hat. Immer noch unklar ist jedoch, ob die Harnsäure einen kausalen Effekt bei der Entstehung der chronischen Niereninsuffizienz hat und wenn ja, in welchem Ausmass. Hierzu benötigt es neben weiteren Arbeiten über die Physio- und Pathophysiologie qualitativ hochwertige Interventionsstudien, welche uns helfen, Auswirkungen der Hypo- und Hyperurikämie und deren klinische Relevanz zu verstehen.
Neurorehabilitation bei der Parkinson-Krankheit
Authors: Möller Jens Carsten , Menig Alexandra , Oechsner Matthias
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Die Parkinson-Krankheit (PK) ist eine chronische neurodegenerative Krankheit, die durch die Kardinalsymptome Akinese, Rigor, Ruhetremor und posturale Instabilität gekennzeichnet ist. Zudem ist die PK durch eine Vielzahl nicht-motorischer Symptome charakterisiert. Während körperliche Aktivität in allen Stadien der Parkinson-Krankheit empfohlen wird und womöglich sogar den Krankheitsverlauf positiv beeinflusst, werden rehabilitative Behandlungen mit zunehmender Krankheitsdauer immer wichtiger. Bei der Neurorehabilitation kommen vor allem physiotherapeutische, ergotherapeutische und logopädische Techniken zum Einsatz, deren grösste Bedeutung wohl in der Behandlung der schlecht auf die medikamentöse Therapie ansprechenden axialen Symptome wie freezing, Hypophonie, Dysphagie, posturale Instabilität und Haltungsstörungen besteht. Diese Arbeit gibt eine Übersicht über den aktuellen Stand der Neurorehabilitation in der Behandlung der PK.
«Ess-Sucht» als eine mögliche Ursache der Adipositas
Authors: Frey Letizia , Riva Martina , Grosshans Martin , Mutschler Jochen
Published: March 2016

Zusammenfassung. Die Prävalenzraten von Übergewicht und Adipositas in den letzten Jahren nehmen international wie auch in der Schweiz zu. Die Neurobiologie versucht in den letzten Jahren ein verbessertes Verständnis von zentralnervösen Ursachen der Adipositas zu erforschen. Unter anderem Erkenntnisse aus der Suchtforschung erscheinen hier sehr hilfreich, da es gewisse Gemeinsamkeiten von Suchterkrankungen und Adipositas hinsichtlich der neurobiologischen Ursachen gibt. Ein verbessertes Krankheitsverständnis der Adipositas könnte helfen, zukünftig effektivere Therapien für adipöse Patienten zu entwickeln. Weitere Forschung, z.B. im Bereich der Stressregulation, erscheint hier aussichtsreich und dringend notwendig.
Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for the Study of Memory Enhancement in Aging
Authors: Bartrés-Faz David , Vidal-Piñeiro Didac
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques have recently attracted interest due to their potential for transiently improving cognition. This may prove particularly valuable in aging, given the known impact of age-related cognitive dysfunction on quality of life. The present review summarizes the currently available evidence of working and episodic memory enhancements achieved using NIBS in healthy elderly people. The evidence reviewed indicates that research is still at an early stage and that there is a need to define the best procedures for operating and performing multicentre characterization of protocols. However, a limited number of sham-controlled studies have reported improvements in both cognitive domains. Furthermore, evidences of long-term beneficial effects opens up the possibility of using NIBS as an adjuvant therapeutic strategy. However, the relevance of certain variables involved and approaches used remains to be elucidated, including the potential benefits of single versus multiple NIBS sessions, the putative synergistic effects of using NIBS in combination with cognitive training, and the importance of individual differences. Overall, NIBS techniques represent a promising opportunity for psychologists seeking strategies to improve memory functions in the elderly. Nevertheless, their use requires appropriate technical knowledge coupled with a clear understanding of the neurophysiology and cognitive neuroscience of aging.
Social Psychology and Noninvasive Electrical	Stimulation
Authors: Boggio Paulo S. , Rêgo Gabriel G. , Marques Lucas M. , Costa Thiago L.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Social neuroscience and psychology have made substantial advances in the last few decades. Nonetheless, the field has relied mostly on behavioral, imaging, and other correlational research methods. Here we argue that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is an effective and relevant technique to be used in this field of research, allowing for the establishment of more causal brain-behavior relationships than can be achieved with most of the techniques used in this field. We review relevant brain stimulation-aided research in the fields of social pain, social interaction, prejudice, and social decision-making, with a special focus on tDCS. Despite the fact that the use of tDCS in Social Neuroscience and Psychology studies is still in its early days, results are promising. As better understanding of the processes behind social cognition becomes increasingly necessary due to political, clinical, and even philosophical demands, the fact that tDCS is arguably rare in Social Neuroscience research is very noteworthy. This review aims at inspiring researchers to employ tDCS in the investigation of issues within Social Neuroscience. We present substantial evidence that tDCS is indeed an appropriate tool for this purpose.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation as a Novel Method for	Enhancing Aphasia Treatment Effects
Authors: Crinion Jennifer T.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Neuromodulation is an exciting area of development. Currently, there is significant interest in academia, industry, and clinical practice where an effective and acceptable transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) kit for use in clinical rehabilitation would offer much benefit to patients’ treatment. In this review, I discuss the latest group studies investigating current tDCS methods for enhancing aphasia treatment effects in post-stroke (sub-acute and chronic) and primary progressive aphasia (PPA) patient populations. This field is still new, and many more investigations with larger samples of patients are needed. Nevertheless, in the studies completed to date, on-line tDCS paired with language rehabilitation was feasible, safe, well tolerated, and sham controlled. Results on the effectiveness of tDCS at boosting recovery outcomes are preliminary but promising with a number of themes emerging. I highlight some of these themes and future directions toward identifying those patients who are likely to respond to specific tDCS and behavioral therapies. This would provide an empirical basis from which to investigate specific aphasia interventions in future multicenter clinical trials and could greatly improve the quality of aphasia treatment for stroke and PPA patients.
Acetylation of C/EBPα inhibits its granulopoietic function
Authors: Bararia Deepak , Kwok Hui Si , Welner Robert S. , Numata Akihiko , Sárosi Menyhárt B. , Yang Henry , Wee Sheena , Tschuri Sebastian , Ray Debleena , Weigert Oliver , Levantini Elena , Ebralidze Alexander K. , Gunaratne Jayantha , Tenen Daniel G.
Published: March 2016

CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα) is an essential transcription factor for myeloid lineage commitment. Here we demonstrate that acetylation of C/EBPα at lysine residues K298 and K302, mediated at least in part by general control non-derepressible 5 (GCN5), impairs C/EBPα DNA-binding ability and modulates C/EBPα transcriptional activity. Acetylated C/EBPα is enriched in human myeloid leukaemia cell lines and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) samples, and downregulated upon granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF)- mediated granulocytic differentiation of 32Dcl3 cells. C/EBPα mutants that mimic acetylation failed to induce granulocytic differentiation in C/EBPα-dependent assays, in both cell lines and in primary hematopoietic cells. Our data uncover GCN5 as a negative regulator of C/EBPα and demonstrate the importance of C/EBPα acetylation in myeloid differentiation.
Challenging nickel-catalysed amine arylations enabled by tailored ancillary ligand design
Authors: Lavoie Christopher M. , MacQueen Preston M. , Rotta-Loria Nicolas L. , Sawatzky Ryan S. , Borzenko Andrey , Chisholm Alicia J. , Hargreaves Breanna K. V. , McDonald Robert , Ferguson Michael J. , Stradiotto Mark
Published: March 2016

Palladium-catalysed C(sp2)–N cross-coupling (that is, Buchwald–Hartwig amination) is employed widely in synthetic chemistry, including in the pharmaceutical industry, for the synthesis of (hetero)aniline derivatives. However, the cost and relative scarcity of palladium provides motivation for the development of alternative, more Earth-abundant catalysts for such transformations. Here we disclose an operationally simple and air-stable ligand/nickel(II) pre-catalyst that accommodates the broadest combination of C(sp2)–N coupling partners reported to date for any single nickel catalyst, without the need for a precious-metal co-catalyst. Key to the unprecedented performance of this pre-catalyst is the application of the new, sterically demanding yet electron-poor bisphosphine PAd-DalPhos. Featured are the first reports of nickel-catalysed room temperature reactions involving challenging primary alkylamine and ammonia reaction partners employing an unprecedented scope of electrophiles, including transformations involving sought-after (hetero)aryl mesylates for which no capable catalyst system is known.
High-sensitivity acoustic sensors from nanofibre webs
Authors: Lang Chenhong , Fang Jian , Shao Hao , Ding Xin , Lin Tong
Published: March 2016

Considerable interest has been devoted to converting mechanical energy into electricity using polymer nanofibres. In particular, piezoelectric nanofibres produced by electrospinning have shown remarkable mechanical energy-to-electricity conversion ability. However, there is little data for the acoustic-to-electric conversion of electrospun nanofibres. Here we show that electrospun piezoelectric nanofibre webs have a strong acoustic-to-electric conversion ability. Using poly(vinylidene fluoride) as a model polymer and a sensor device that transfers sound directly to the nanofibre layer, we show that the sensor devices can detect low-frequency sound with a sensitivity as high as 266 mV Pa−1. They can precisely distinguish sound waves in low to middle frequency region. These features make them especially suitable for noise detection. Our nanofibre device has more than five times higher sensitivity than a commercial piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride) film device. Electrospun piezoelectric nanofibres may be useful for developing high-performance acoustic sensors.
Sex-specific neural circuits of emotion regulation in the centromedial amygdala
Authors: Wu Yan , Li Huandong , Zhou Yuan , Yu Jian , Zhang Yuanchao , Song Ming , Qin Wen , Yu Chunshui , Jiang Tianzi
Published: March 2016

Sex-related differences in emotion regulation (ER) in the frequency power distribution within the human amygdala, a brain region involved in emotion processing, have been reported. However, how sex differences in ER are manifested in the brain networks which are seeded on the amygdala subregions is unclear. The goal of this study was to investigate this issue from a brain network perspective. Utilizing resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) analysis, we found that the sex-specific functional connectivity patterns associated with ER trait level were only seeded in the centromedial amygdala (CM). Women with a higher trait-level ER had a stronger negative RSFC between the right CM and the medial superior frontal gyrus (mSFG), and stronger positive RSFC between the right CM and the anterior insula (AI) and the superior temporal gyrus (STG). But men with a higher trait-level ER was associated with weaker negative RSFC of the right CM-mSFG and positive RSFCs of the right CM-left AI, right CM-right AI/STG, and right CM-left STG. These results provide evidence for the sex-related effects in ER based on CM and indicate that men and women may differ in the neural circuits associated with emotion representation and integration.
The outer-membrane export signal of Porphyromonas gingivalis type IX secretion system (T9SS) is a conserved C-terminal β-sandwich domain
Authors: de Diego Iñaki , Ksiazek Miroslaw , Mizgalska Danuta , Koneru Lahari , Golik Przemyslaw , Szmigielski Borys , Nowak Magdalena , Nowakowska Zuzanna , Potempa Barbara , Houston John A. , Enghild Jan J. , Thøgersen Ida B. , Gao Jinlong , Kwan Ann H. , Trewhella Jill , Dubin Grzegorz , Gomis-Rüth F. Xavier , Nguyen Ky-Anh , Potempa Jan
Published: March 2016

In the recently characterized Type IX Secretion System (T9SS), the conserved C-terminal domain (CTD) in secreted proteins functions as an outer membrane translocation signal for export of virulence factors to the cell surface in the Gram-negative Bacteroidetes phylum. In the periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis, the CTD is cleaved off by PorU sortase in a sequence-independent manner, and anionic lipopolysaccharide (A-LPS) is attached to many translocated proteins, thus anchoring them to the bacterial surface. Here, we solved the atomic structure of the CTD of gingipain B (RgpB) from P. gingivalis, alone and together with a preceding immunoglobulin-superfamily domain (IgSF). The CTD was found to possess a typical Ig-like fold encompassing seven antiparallel β-strands organized in two β-sheets, packed into a β-sandwich structure that can spontaneously dimerise through C-terminal strand swapping. Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) revealed no fixed orientation of the CTD with respect to the IgSF. By introducing insertion or substitution of residues within the inter-domain linker in the native protein, we were able to show that despite the region being unstructured, it nevertheless is resistant to general proteolysis. These data suggest structural motifs located in the two adjacent Ig-like domains dictate the processing of CTDs by the T9SS secretion pathway.
Population-genetic properties of differentiated copy number variations in cattle
Authors: Xu Lingyang , Hou Yali , Bickhart Derek M. , Zhou Yang , Hay El Hamidi abdel , Song Jiuzhou , Sonstegard Tad S. , Van Tassell Curtis P. , Liu George E.
Published: March 2016

While single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is typically the variant of choice for population genetics, copy number variation (CNV) which comprises insertion, deletion and duplication of genomic sequence, is an informative type of genetic variation. CNVs have been shown to be both common in mammals and important for understanding the relationship between genotype and phenotype. However, CNV differentiation, selection and its population genetic properties are not well understood across diverse populations. We performed a population genetics survey based on CNVs derived from the BovineHD SNP array data of eight distinct cattle breeds. We generated high resolution results that show geographical patterns of variations and genome-wide admixture proportions within and among breeds. Similar to the previous SNP-based studies, our CNV-based results displayed a strong correlation of population structure and geographical location. By conducting three pairwise comparisons among European taurine, African taurine, and indicine groups, we further identified 78 unique CNV regions that were highly differentiated, some of which might be due to selection. These CNV regions overlapped with genes involved in traits related to parasite resistance, immunity response, body size, fertility, and milk production. Our results characterize CNV diversity among cattle populations and provide a list of lineage-differentiated CNVs.
Surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy of single bowtie nano-antennas using a differential reflectivity method
Authors: Kaniber M. , Schraml K. , Regler A. , Bartl J. , Glashagen G. , Flassig F. , Wierzbowski J. , Finley J. J.
Published: March 2016

We report on the structural and optical properties of individual bowtie nanoantennas both on glass and semiconducting GaAs substrates. The antennas on glass (GaAs) are shown to be of excellent quality and high uniformity reflected by narrow size distributions with standard deviations for the triangle and gap size of "Equation missing" = 4.5 nm "Equation missing" = 2.6 nm"Equation missing" and "Equation missing" = 5.4 nm "Equation missing" = 3.8 nm"Equation missing", respectively. The corresponding optical properties of individual nanoantennas studied by differential reflection spectroscopy show a strong reduction of the localised surface plasmon polariton resonance linewidth from 0.21 eV to 0.07 eV upon reducing the antenna size from 150 nm to 100 nm. This is attributed to the absence of inhomogeneous broadening as compared to optical measurements on nanoantenna ensembles. The inter-particle coupling of an individual bowtie nanoantenna, which gives rise to strongly localised and enhanced electromagnetic hotspots, is demonstrated using polarization-resolved spectroscopy, yielding a large degree of linear polarization of ρmax ~ 80%. The combination of highly reproducible nanofabrication and fast, non-destructive and non-contaminating optical spectroscopy paves the route towards future semiconductor-based nano-plasmonic circuits, consisting of multiple photonic and plasmonic entities.
Impact of structure space continuity on protein fold classification
Authors: Xu Jinrui , Zhang Jianzhi
Published: March 2016

Protein structure classification hierarchically clusters domain structures based on structure and/or sequence similarities and plays important roles in the study of protein structure-function relationship and protein evolution. Among many classifications, SCOP and CATH are widely viewed as the gold standards. Fold classification is of special interest because this is the lowest level of classification that does not depend on protein sequence similarity. The current fold classifications such as those in SCOP and CATH are controversial because they implicitly assume that folds are discrete islands in the structure space, whereas increasing evidence suggests significant similarities among folds and supports a continuous fold space. Although this problem is widely recognized, its impact on fold classification has not been quantitatively evaluated. Here we develop a likelihood method to classify a domain into the existing folds of CATH or SCOP using both query-fold structure similarities and within-fold structure heterogeneities. The new classification differs from the original classification for 3.4–12% of domains, depending on factors such as the structure similarity score and original classification scheme used. Because these factors differ for different biological purposes, our results indicate that the importance of considering structure space continuity in fold classification depends on the specific question asked.
Irradiation deformation near different atomic grain boundaries in α-Zr: An investigation of thermodynamics and kinetics of point defects
Authors: Arjhangmehr A. , Feghhi S. A. H.
Published: March 2016

Understanding radiation performance of nanocrystalline Zr-based alloys is essential to develop internal components and external cladding materials with self-healing capabilities for longer and safer life cycles in harsh reactor environments. However, the precise role of interfaces in modifying defect production and evolution in α-Zr is not yet determined. Using atomistic simulation methods, we investigate the influence of different atomic grain boundaries (GBs) in thermodynamic and kinetic properties of defects on short timescales. We observe that the sink efficiency and sink strength of interfaces vary significantly with the boundary structures, with a preference to absorb interstitials (vacancies) when the GBs are semi-parallel (semi-perpendicular) relative to the basal planes. Further, we identify three distinct primary cascade geometries and find that the residual defect clustering in grain interiors depends on how the atomic GBs modify the spatial distribution of defects within the crystal structure. Finally, we explain and discuss the dynamic results in terms of energetic and kinetic behaviors of defects near the pristine and damaged boundaries. Eventually, these will provide a microscopic reference for further improving the radiation response of Zr by using fine grains or by introducing a high density of dispersoids in material metallurgy.
Solvent-surface interactions control the phase structure in laser-generated iron-gold core-shell nanoparticles
Authors: Wagener Philipp , Jakobi Jurij , Rehbock Christoph , Chakravadhanula Venkata Sai Kiran , Thede Claas , Wiedwald Ulf , Bartsch Mathias , Kienle Lorenz , Barcikowski Stephan
Published: March 2016

This work highlights a strategy for the one-step synthesis of FeAu nanoparticles by the pulsed laser ablation of alloy targets in the presence of different solvents. This method allows particle generation without the use of additional chemicals; hence, solvent-metal interactions could be studied without cross effects from organic surface ligands. A detailed analysis of generated particles via transmission electron microscopy in combination with EDX elemental mapping could conclusively verify that the nature of the used solvent governs the internal phase structure of the formed nanoparticles. In the presence of acetone or methyl methacrylate, a gold shell covering a non-oxidized iron core was formed, whereas in aqueous media, an Au core with an Fe3O4 shell was generated. This core-shell morphology was the predominant species found in >90% of the examined nanoparticles. These findings indicate that fundamental chemical interactions between the nanoparticle surface and the solvent significantly contribute to phase segregation and elemental distribution in FeAu nanoparticles. A consecutive analysis of resulting Fe@Au core-shell nanoparticles revealed outstanding oxidation resistance and fair magnetic and optical properties. In particular, the combination of these features with high stability magnetism and plasmonics may create new opportunities for this hybrid material in imaging applications.
ATX-LPA1 axis contributes to proliferation of chondrocytes by regulating fibronectin assembly leading to proper cartilage formation
Authors: Nishioka Tatsuji , Arima Naoaki , Kano Kuniyuki , Hama Kotaro , Itai Eriko , Yukiura Hiroshi , Kise Ryoji , Inoue Asuka , Kim Seok-Hyung , Solnica-Krezel Lilianna , Moolenaar Wouter H. , Chun Jerold , Aoki Junken
Published: March 2016

The lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signals via six distinct G protein-coupled receptors to mediate both unique and overlapping biological effects, including cell migration, proliferation and survival. LPA is produced extracellularly by autotaxin (ATX), a secreted lysophospholipase D, from lysophosphatidylcholine. ATX-LPA receptor signaling is essential for normal development and implicated in various (patho)physiological processes, but underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Through gene targeting approaches in zebrafish and mice, we show here that loss of ATX-LPA1signaling leads to disorganization of chondrocytes, causing severe defects in cartilage formation. Mechanistically, ATX-LPA1signaling acts by promoting S-phase entry and cell proliferation of chondrocytes bothin vitroandin vivo, at least in part through β1-integrin translocation leading to fibronectin assembly and further extracellular matrix deposition; this in turn promotes chondrocyte-matrix adhesion and cell proliferation. Thus, the ATX-LPA1axis is a key regulator of cartilage formation.
Cloning of chrysanthemum high-affinity nitrate transporter family (CmNRT2) and characterization of CmNRT2.1
Authors: Gu Chunsun , Song Aiping , Zhang Xiaoxue , Wang Haibin , Li Ting , Chen Yu , Jiang Jiafu , Chen Fadi , Chen Sumei
Published: March 2016

The family of NITRATE TRANSPORTER 2 (NRT2) proteins belongs to the high affinity transport system (HATS) proteins which acts at low nitrate concentrations. The relevant gene content of the chrysanthemum genome was explored here by isolating the full length sequences of six distinct CmNRT2 genes. One of these (CmNRT2.1) was investigated at the functional level. Its transcription level was inducible by low concentrations of both nitrate and ammonium. A yeast two hybrid assay showed that CmNRT2.1 interacts with CmNAR2, while a BiFC assay demonstrated that the interaction occurs at the plasma membrane. Arabidopsis thaliana plants heterologously expressing CmNRT2.1 displayed an enhanced rate of labeled nitrogen uptake, suggesting that CmNRT2.1 represents a high affinity root nitrate transporter.
A Flexible and Wearable Human Stress Monitoring Patch
Authors: Yoon Sunghyun , Sim Jai Kyoung , Cho Young-Ho
Published: March 2016

A human stress monitoring patch integrates three sensors of skin temperature, skin conductance, and pulsewave in the size of stamp (25 mm × 15 mm × 72 μm) in order to enhance wearing comfort with small skin contact area and high flexibility. The skin contact area is minimized through the invention of an integrated multi-layer structure and the associated microfabrication process; thus being reduced to 1/125 of that of the conventional single-layer multiple sensors. The patch flexibility is increased mainly by the development of flexible pulsewave sensor, made of a flexible piezoelectric membrane supported by a perforated polyimide membrane. In the human physiological range, the fabricated stress patch measures skin temperature with the sensitivity of 0.31 Ω/°C, skin conductance with the sensitivity of 0.28 μV/0.02 μS, and pulse wave with the response time of 70 msec. The skin-attachable stress patch, capable to detect multimodal bio-signals, shows potential for application to wearable emotion monitoring.
The Periosteal Bone Surface is Less Mechano-Responsive than the Endocortical
Authors: Birkhold Annette I. , Razi Hajar , Duda Georg N. , Weinkamer Richard , Checa Sara , Willie Bettina M.
Published: March 2016

Dynamic processes modify bone micro-structure to adapt to external loading and avoid mechanical failure. Age-related cortical bone loss is thought to occur because of increased endocortical resorption and reduced periosteal formation. Differences in the (re)modeling response to loading on both surfaces, however, are poorly understood. Combining in-vivo tibial loading, in-vivo micro-tomography and finite element analysis, remodeling in C57Bl/6J mice of three ages (10, 26, 78 week old) was analyzed to identify differences in mechano-responsiveness and its age-related change on the two cortical surfaces. Mechanical stimulation enhanced endocortical and periosteal formation and reduced endocortical resorption; a reduction in periosteal resorption was hardly possible since it was low, even without additional loading. Endocortically a greater mechano-responsiveness was identified, evident by a larger bone-forming surface and enhanced thickness of formed bone packets, which was not detected periosteally. Endocortical mechano-responsiveness was better conserved with age, since here adaptive response declined continuously with aging, whereas periosteally the main decay in formation response occurred already before adulthood. Higher endocortical mechano-responsiveness is not due to higher endocortical strains. Although it is clear structural adaptation varies between different bones in the skeleton, this study demonstrates that adaptation varies even at different sites within the same bone.
Biallelic editing of a lamprey genome using the CRISPR/Cas9 system
Authors: Zu Yao , Zhang Xushuai , Ren Jianfeng , Dong Xuehong , Zhu Zhe , Jia Liang , Zhang Qinghua , Li Weiming
Published: March 2016

Lampreys are extant representatives of agnathans. Descriptions of lamprey development, physiology and genome have provided critical insights into early evolution of vertebrate traits. However, efficient means for genetic manipulation in agnathan species have not been developed, hindering functional studies of genes in these important Evo-Devo models. Here, we report a CRISPR/Cas system optimized for lamprey genomes and use it to disrupt genomic loci in the Northeast Chinese lamprey (Lethenteron morii) with efficiencies ranging between 84~99%. The frequencies of indels observed in the target loci of golden (gol), kctd10, wee1, soxe2, and wnt7b, estimated from direct sequencing of genomic DNA samples of injected lamprey larvae, were 68/69, 47/56, 38/39, 36/37 and 36/42, respectively. These indels often occurred in both alleles. In the CRISPR/Cas9 treatment for gol or kctd10, 38.6% or 85.3% of the targeted larvae had the respective recessive null-like phenotypes, further confirming the disruption of both loci. The kctd10 gRNA, designed against an essential functional region of Kctd10, resulted in null-like phenotypes and in-frame mutations in alleles. We suggest that the CRISPR/Cas-based approach has the potential for efficient genetic perturbation in organisms less amenable to germ line transmission based approaches.
Using Jupiter’s gravitational field to probe the Jovian convective dynamo
Authors: Kong Dali , Zhang Keke , Schubert Gerald
Published: March 2016

Convective motion in the deep metallic hydrogen region of Jupiter is believed to generate its magnetic field, the strongest in the solar system. The amplitude, structure and depth of the convective motion are unknown. A promising way of probing the Jovian convective dynamo is to measure its effect on the external gravitational field, a task to be soon undertaken by the Juno spacecraft. We calculate the gravitational signature of non-axisymmetric convective motion in the Jovian metallic hydrogen region and show that with sufficiently accurate measurements it can reveal the nature of the deep convection.
Geographically Sourcing Cocaine’s Origin – Delineation of the Nineteen Major Coca Growing Regions in South America
Authors: Mallette Jennifer R. , Casale John F. , Jordan James , Morello David R. , Beyer Paul M.
Published: March 2016

Previously, geo-sourcing to five major coca growing regions within South America was accomplished. However, the expansion of coca cultivation throughout South America made sub-regional origin determinations increasingly difficult. The former methodology was recently enhanced with additional stable isotope analyses (2H and 18O) to fully characterize cocaine due to the varying environmental conditions in which the coca was grown. An improved data analysis method was implemented with the combination of machine learning and multivariate statistical analysis methods to provide further partitioning between growing regions. Here, we show how the combination of trace cocaine alkaloids, stable isotopes and multivariate statistical analyses can be used to classify illicit cocaine as originating from one of 19 growing regions within South America. The data obtained through this approach can be used to describe current coca cultivation and production trends, highlight trafficking routes, as well as identify new coca growing regions.
Effect of GLP-1 Receptor Activation on Offspring Kidney Health in a Rat Model of Maternal Obesity
Authors: Glastras Sarah J. , Chen Hui , McGrath Rachel T. , Zaky Amgad A. , Gill Anthony J. , Pollock Carol A. , Saad Sonia
Published: March 2016

Maternal obesity is associated with an increased risk of chronic disease in offspring, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). Exendin-4 (Exd-4) activates the glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor thereby decreasing serum glucose levels and body weight. In addition, Exd-4 has been shown to reduce renal and cardiac complications in experimental models of T2D. We hypothesized that treatment with Exd-4 would ameliorate the detrimental effects of maternal and diet-induced obesity on renal characteristics in offspring. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either normal or high-fat diet (HFD) for 6 weeks prior to pregnancy, during pregnancy and lactation, and their offspring were weaned to normal or HFD. The offspring were randomized to Exd-4 or placebo from weaning and their kidneys harvested at Week 9. We found that the kidneys of offspring from obese mothers, regardless of postnatal diet, had significantly increased markers of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. Exd-4 ameliorated the negative renal effects of maternal obesity and in particular, reduced renal inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. In conclusion, maternal obesity has persisting effects on renal structure in the offspring. GLP-1 analogues are potentially useful for protecting against the deleterious effects of maternal obesity on renal physiology in offspring.
Human sperm rheotaxis: a passive physical process
Authors: Zhang Zhuoran , Liu Jun , Meriano Jim , Ru Changhai , Xie Shaorong , Luo Jun , Sun Yu
Published: March 2016

A long-standing question in natural reproduction is how mammalian sperm navigate inside female reproductive tract and finally reach the egg cell, or oocyte. Recently, fluid flow was proposed as a long–range guidance cue for sperm navigation. Coitus induces fluid flow from oviduct to uterus and sperm align themselves against the flow direction and swim upstream, a phenomenon termed rheotaxis. Whether sperm rheotaxis is a passive process dominated by fluid mechanics, or sperm actively sense and adapt to fluid flow remains controversial. Here we report the first quantitative study of sperm flagellar motion during human sperm rheotaxis and provide direct evidence indicating that sperm rheotaxis is a passive process. Experimental results show that there is no significant difference in flagellar beating amplitude and asymmetry between rheotaxis-turning sperm and those sperm swimming freely in the absence of fluid flow. Additionally, fluorescence image tracking shows no Ca2+ influx during sperm rheotaxis turning, further suggesting there is no active signal transduction during human sperm rheotaxis.
Benefit-cost Trade-offs of Early Learning in Foraging Predatory Mites Amblyseius Swirskii
Authors: Christiansen Inga C. , Szin Sandra , Schausberger Peter
Published: March 2016

Learning is changed behavior following experience, and ubiquitous in animals including plant-inhabiting predatory mites (Phytoseiidae). Learning has many benefits but also incurs costs, which are only poorly understood. Here, we addressed learning, especially its costs, in the generalist predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii, a biocontrol agent of several herbivores, which can also survive on pollen. The goals of our research were (1) to scrutinize if A. swirskii is able to learn during early life in foraging contexts and, if so, (2) to determine the costs of early learning. In the experiments, we used one difficult-to-grasp prey, i.e., thrips, and one easy-to-grasp prey, i.e., spider mites. Our experiments show that A. swirskii is able to learn during early life. Adult predators attacked prey experienced early in life (i.e., matching prey) more quickly than they attacked unknown (i.e., non-matching) prey. Furthermore, we observed both fitness benefits and operating (physiological) costs of early learning. Predators receiving the matching prey produced the most eggs, whereas predators receiving the non-matching prey produced the least. Thrips-experienced predators needed the longest for juvenile development. Our findings may be used to enhance A. swirskii’s efficacy in biological control, by priming young predators on a specific prey early in life.
Cornea nerve fiber quantification and construction of phenotypes in patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Oudejans Linda , He Xuan , Niesters Marieke , Dahan Albert , Brines Michael , van Velzen Monique
Published: March 2016

Cornea confocal microscopy (CCM) is a novel non-invasive method to detect small nerve fiber pathology. CCM generally correlates with outcomes of skin biopsies in patients with small fiber pathology. The aim of this study was to quantify the morphology of small nerve fibers of the cornea of patients with fibromyalgia in terms of density, length and branching and further phenotype these patients using standardized quantitative sensory testing (QST). Small fiber pathology was detected in the cornea of 51% of patients: nerve fiber length was significantly decreased in 44% of patients compared to age- and sex-matched reference values; nerve fiber density and branching were significantly decreased in 10% and 28% of patients. The combination of the CCM parameters and sensory tests for central sensitization, (cold pain threshold, mechanical pain threshold, mechanical pain sensitivity, allodynia and/or windup), yielded four phenotypes of fibromyalgia patients in a subgroup analysis: one group with normal cornea morphology without and with signs of central sensitization and a group with abnormal cornea morphology parameters without and with signs of central sensitization. In conclusion, half of the tested fibromyalgia population demonstrates signs of small fiber pathology as measured by CCM. The four distinct phenotypes suggest possible differences in disease mechanisms and may require different treatment approaches.
Monitoring the intracellular calcium response to a dynamic hypertonic environment
Authors: Huang Xiaowen , Yue Wanqing , Liu Dandan , Yue Jianbo , Li Jiaqian , Sun Dong , Yang Mengsu , Wang Zuankai
Published: March 2016

The profiling of physiological response of cells to external stimuli at the single cell level is of importance. Traditional approaches to study cell responses are often limited by ensemble measurement, which is challenging to reveal the complex single cell behaviors under a dynamic environment. Here we report the development of a simple microfluidic device to investigate intracellular calcium response to dynamic hypertonic conditions at the single cell level in real-time. Interestingly, a dramatic elevation in the intracellular calcium signaling is found in both suspension cells (human leukemic cell line, HL-60) and adherent cells (lung cancer cell line, A549), which is ascribed to the exposure of cells to the hydrodynamic stress. We also demonstrate that the calcium response exhibits distinct single cell heterogeneity as well as cell-type-dependent responses to the same stimuli. Our study opens up a new tool for tracking cellular activity at the single cell level in real time for high throughput drug screening.