bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revised Magmatic Source Models for the 2015 Eruption at Axial Seamount Including Estimates of Fault‐Induced Deformation
Authors: Hefner William L. , Nooner Scott L. , Chadwick William W. , Bohnenstiehl DelWayne R.
Published: March 2020

Axial Seamount is an active submarine volcano located at the intersection of the Cobb hot spot and the Juan de Fuca Ridge (45°57′N, 130°01′W). Bottom pressure recorders captured co‐eruption subsidence of 2.4–3.2 m in 1998, 2011, and 2015, and campaign‐style pressure surveys every 1–2 years have provided a long‐term time series of inter‐eruption re‐inflation. The 2015 eruption occurred shortly after the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) Cabled Array came online providing real‐time seismic and deformation observations for the first time. Nooner and Chadwick (2016, https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aah4666) used the available vertical deformation data to model the 2015 eruption deformation source as a steeply dipping prolate‐spheroid, approximating a high‐melt zone or conduit beneath the eastern caldera wall. More recently, Levy et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1130/G39978.1) used OOI seismic data to estimate dip‐slip motion along a pair of outward‐dipping caldera ring faults. This fault motion complicates the deformation field by contributing up to several centimeters of vertical seafloor motion. In this study, fault‐induced surface deformation was calculated from the slip estimates of Levy et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1130/G39978.1) then removed from vertical deformation data prior to model inversions. Removing fault motion resulted in an improved model fit with a new best‐fitting deformation source located 2.11 km S64°W of the source of Nooner and Chadwick (2016, https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aah4666) with similar geometry. This result shows that ring fault motion can have a significant impact on surface deformation, and future modeling efforts need to consider the contribution of fault motion when estimating the location and geometry of subsurface magma movement at Axial Seamount.
US nativity and dietary acculturation impact the gut microbiome in a diverse US population
Authors: Peters Brandilyn A , Yi Stella S , Beasley Jeannette M , Cobbs Emilia N , Choi Hee Sun , Beggs Dia B , Hayes Richard B , Ahn Jiyoung
Published: March 2020

Little is known regarding the impact of immigrant acculturation on the gut microbiome. We characterized differences in the gut microbiome between racially/ethnically diverse US immigrant and US-born groups, and determined the impact of dietary acculturation on the microbiome. Stool samples were collected from 863 US residents, including US-born (315 White, 93 Black, 40 Hispanic) and foreign-born (105 Hispanic, 264 Korean) groups. We determined dietary acculturation from dissimilarities based on food frequency questionnaires, and used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize the microbiome. Gut microbiome composition differed across study groups, with the largest difference between foreign-born Koreans and US-born Whites, and significant differences also observed between foreign-born and US-born Hispanics. Differences in sub-operational taxonomic unit (s-OTU) abundance between foreign-born and US-born groups tended to be distinct from differences between US-born groups. Bacteroides plebeius, a seaweed-degrading bacterium, was strongly enriched in foreign-born Koreans, while Prevotella copri and Bifidobacterium adolescentis were strongly enriched in foreign-born Koreans and Hispanics, compared with US-born Whites. Dietary acculturation in foreign-born participants was associated with specific s-OTUs, resembling abundance in US-born Whites; e.g., a Bacteroides plebeius s-OTU was depleted in highly diet-acculturated Koreans. In summary, we observed that US nativity is a determinant of the gut microbiome in a US resident population. Dietary acculturation may result in loss of native species in immigrants, though further research is necessary to explore whether acculturation-related microbiome alterations have consequences for immigrant health.
Exploring metabolic adaptation of Streptococcus pneumoniae to antibiotics
Authors: Leonard Anne , Möhlis Kevin , Schlüter Rabea , Taylor Edward , Lalk Michael , Methling Karen
Published: March 2020

The Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the common causes of community acquired pneumonia, meningitis, and otitis media. Analyzing the metabolic adaptation toward environmental stress conditions improves our understanding of its pathophysiology and its dependency on host-derived nutrients. In this study, extra- and intracellular metabolic profiles were evaluated to investigate the impact of antimicrobial compounds targeting different pathways of the metabolome of S. pneumoniae TIGR4Δcps. For the metabolomics approach, we analyzed the complex variety of metabolites by using 1H NMR, HPLC-MS, and GC–MS as different analytical techniques. Through this combination, we detected nearly 120 metabolites. For each antimicrobial compound, individual metabolic effects were detected that often comprised global biosynthetic pathways. Cefotaxime altered amino acids metabolism and carbon metabolism. The purine and pyrimidine metabolic pathways were mostly affected by moxifloxacin treatment. The combination of cefotaxime and azithromycin intensified the stress response compared with the use of the single antibiotic. However, we observed that three cell wall metabolites were altered only by treatment with the combination of the two antibiotics. Only moxifloxacin stress-induced alternation in CDP-ribitol concentration. Teixobactin-Arg10 resulted in global changes of pneumococcal metabolism. To meet the growing requirements for new antibiotics, our metabolomics approach has shown to be a promising complement to other OMICs investigations allowing insights into the mode of action of novel antimicrobial compounds.
The cardiac work-loop technique: An in vitro model for identifying and profiling drug-induced changes in inotropy using rat papillary muscles
Authors: Fletcher Sophie , Maddock Helen , James Rob S. , Wallis Rob , Gharanei Mayel
Published: March 2020

The cardiac work-loop technique closely mimics the intrinsicin vivomovement and characteristics of cardiac muscle function. In this study, six known inotropes were profiled using the work-loop technique to evaluate the potential of this method to predict inotropy. Papillary muscles from male Sprague-Dawley rats were mounted onto an organ bath perfused with Krebs-Henseleit buffer. Following optimisation, work-loop contractions were performed that included an initial stabilisation period followed by vehicle control or drug administration. Six known inotropes were tested: digoxin, dobutamine, isoprenaline, flecainide, verapamil and atenolol. Muscle performance was evaluated by calculating power output during work-loop contraction. Digoxin, dobutamine and isoprenaline caused a significant increase in power output of muscles when compared to vehicle control. Flecainide, verapamil and atenolol significantly reduced power output of muscles. These changes in power output were reflected in alterations in work loop shapes. This is the first study in which changes in work-loop shape detailing for example the activation, shortening or passive re-lengthening have been linked to the mechanism of action of a compound. This study has demonstrated that the work-loop technique can provide an important novel method with which to assess detailed mechanisms of drug-induced effects on cardiac muscle contractility.
Effects of Chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral microbiome
Authors: Bescos Raul , Ashworth Ann , Cutler Craig , Brookes Zoe L. , Belfield Louise , Rodiles Ana , Casas-Agustench Patricia , Farnham Garry , Liddle Luke , Burleigh Mia , White Desley , Easton Chris , Hickson Mary
Published: March 2020

Following a single blind, cross-over and non-randomized design we investigated the effect of 7-day use of chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash on the salivary microbiome as well as several saliva and plasma biomarkers in 36 healthy individuals. They rinsed their mouth (for 1 min) twice a day for seven days with a placebo mouthwash and then repeated this protocol with CHX mouthwash for a further seven days. Saliva and blood samples were taken at the end of each treatment to analyse the abundance and diversity of oral bacteria, and pH, lactate, glucose, nitrate and nitrite concentrations. CHX significantly increased the abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, and reduced the content of Bacteroidetes, TM7, SR1 and Fusobacteria. This shift was associated with a significant decrease in saliva pH and buffering capacity, accompanied by an increase in saliva lactate and glucose levels. Lower saliva and plasma nitrite concentrations were found after using CHX, followed by a trend of increased systolic blood pressure. Overall, this study demonstrates that mouthwash containing CHX is associated with a major shift in the salivary microbiome, leading to more acidic conditions and lower nitrite availability in healthy individuals.
The Human Lung Glycome Reveals Novel Glycan Ligands for Influenza A Virus
Authors: Jia Nan , Byrd-Leotis Lauren , Matsumoto Yasuyuki , Gao Chao , Wein Alexander N. , Lobby Jenna L. , Kohlmeier Jacob E. , Steinhauer David A. , Cummings Richard D.
Published: March 2020

Glycans within human lungs are recognized by many pathogens such as influenza A virus (IAV), yet little is known about their structures. Here we present the first analysis of the N- and O- and glycosphingolipid-glycans from total human lungs, along with histological analyses of IAV binding. The N-glycome of human lung contains extremely large complex-type N-glycans with linear poly-N-acetyllactosamine (PL) [-3Galβ1–4GlcNAcβ1-]n extensions, which are predominantly terminated in α2,3-linked sialic acid. By contrast, smaller N-glycans lack PL and are enriched in α2,6-linked sialic acids. In addition, we observed large glycosphingolipid (GSL)-glycans, which also consists of linear PL, terminating in mainly α2,3-linked sialic acid. Histological staining revealed that IAV binds to sialylated and non-sialylated glycans and binding is not concordant with respect to binding by sialic acid-specific lectins. These results extend our understanding of the types of glycans that may serve as binding sites for human lung pathogens.
Selective USP7 inhibition elicits cancer cell killing through a p53-dependent mechanism
Authors: Schauer Nathan J. , Liu Xiaoxi , Magin Robert S. , Doherty Laura M. , Chan Wai Cheung , Ficarro Scott B. , Hu Wanyi , Roberts Rebekka M. , Iacob Roxana E. , Stolte Björn , Giacomelli Andrew O. , Perera Sumner , McKay Kyle , Boswell Sarah A. , Weisberg Ellen L. , Ray Arghya , Chauhan Dharminder , Dhe-Paganon Sirano , Anderson Ken C. , Griffin James D. , Li Jianing , Hahn William C. , Sorger Peter K. , Engen John R. , Stegmaier Kimberly , Marto Jarrod A. , Buhrlage Sara J.
Published: March 2020

Ubiquitin specific peptidase 7 (USP7) is a deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) that removes ubiquitin tags from specific protein substrates in order to alter their degradation rate and sub-cellular localization. USP7 has been proposed as a therapeutic target in several cancers because it has many reported substrates with a role in cancer progression, including FOXO4, MDM2, N-Myc, and PTEN. The multi-substrate nature of USP7, combined with the modest potency and selectivity of early generation USP7 inhibitors, has presented a challenge in defining predictors of response to USP7 and potential patient populations that would benefit most from USP7-targeted drugs. Here, we describe the structure-guided development of XL177A, which irreversibly inhibits USP7 with sub-nM potency and selectivity across the human proteome. Evaluation of the cellular effects of XL177A reveals that selective USP7 inhibition suppresses cancer cell growth predominantly through a p53-dependent mechanism: XL177A specifically upregulates p53 transcriptional targets transcriptome-wide, hotspot mutations in TP53 but not any other genes predict response to XL177A across a panel of ~500 cancer cell lines, and TP53 knockout rescues XL177A-mediated growth suppression of TP53 wild-type (WT) cells. Together, these findings suggest TP53 mutational status as a biomarker for response to USP7 inhibition. We find that Ewing sarcoma and malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT), two pediatric cancers that are sensitive to other p53-dependent cytotoxic drugs, also display increased sensitivity to XL177A.
In-depth characterization of a novel live-attenuated Mayaro virus vaccine candidate using an immunocompetent mouse model of Mayaro disease
Authors: Mota Mânlio Tasso de Oliveira , Costa Vivian Vasconcelos , Sugimoto Michelle Amantéa , Guimarães Georgia de Freitas , Queiroz-Junior Celso Martins , Moreira Thaiane Pinto , de Sousa Carla Daiane , Santos Franciele Martins , Queiroz Victoria Fulgêncio , Passos Ingredy , Hubner Josy , Souza Danielle Gloria , Weaver Scott C. , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Nogueira Maurício Lacerda
Published: March 2020

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is endemic in South American countries where it is responsible for sporadic outbreaks of acute febrile illness. The hallmark of MAYV infection is a highly debilitating and chronic arthralgia. Although MAYV emergence is a potential threat, there are no specific therapies or licensed vaccine. In this study, we developed a murine model of MAYV infection that emulates many of the most relevant clinical features of the infection in humans and tested a live-attenuated MAYV vaccine candidate (MAYV/IRES). Intraplantar inoculation of a WT strain of MAYV into immunocompetent mice induced persistent hypernociception, transient viral replication in target organs, systemic production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and specific humoral IgM and IgG responses. Inoculation of MAYV/IRES in BALB/c mice induced strong specific cellular and humoral responses. Moreover, MAYV/IRES vaccination of immunocompetent and interferon receptor-defective mice resulted in protection from disease induced by the virulent wt MAYV strain. Thus, this study describes a novel model of MAYV infection in immunocompetent mice and highlights the potential role of a live-attenuated MAYV vaccine candidate in host’s protection from disease induced by a virulent MAYV strain.
Cold stress changes antioxidant defense system, phenylpropanoid contents and expression of genes involved in their biosynthesis in Ocimum basilicum L.
Authors: Rezaie Ramin , Abdollahi Mandoulakani Babak , Fattahi Mohammad
Published: March 2020

Environmental stresses might alter the activity of antioxidant defense system and both quantity and quality of the essential oil constituents in aromatic plants. In the current study, a greenhouse experiment was designed to assess the influence of cold stress on total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), DPPH radical scavenging, antioxidant and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) enzymes activity and content of phenylpropanoid compounds inOcimum basilicumL. The genes expression levels of chavicolO-methyl transferase (CVOMT), cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), eugenol synthase 1 (EGS1) and eugenolO-methyl transferase (EOMT) were also investigated. Results revealed the highest TPC, TFC and DPPH at 4 °C for 12 h. Positive significant correlation was observed between TFC and DPPH, as well as TPC and PAL enzyme activity. The highest activity of superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase was recorded in 4 °C for 48 h, while this treatment caused the highest reduction in the activities of ascorbate peroxidase and catalase. In plants exposed to 10 °C for 48 h, the contents of methyleugenol and methylchavicol was positively associated with the expression levels ofEGS1 and EOMT. A positive correlation was also found betweenC4Hexpression and eugenol, methyleugenol and methylchavicol contents under 4 °C for 12 h.
A New Nanocomposite Copolymer Based On Functionalised Graphene Oxide for Development of Heart Valves
Authors: Ovcharenko Evgeny A. , Seifalian Amelia , Rezvova Maria A. , Klyshnikov Kirill Yu. , Glushkova Tatiana V. , Akenteva Tatyana N. , Antonova Larisa V. , Velikanova Elena A. , Chernonosova Vera S. , Shevelev Georgy Yu. , Shishkova Darya K. , Krivkina Evgeniya O. , Kudryavceva Yuliya A. , Seifalian Alexander M. , Barbarash Leonid S.
Published: March 2020

Polymeric heart valves seem to be an attractive alternative to mechanical and biological prostheses as they are more durable, due to the superior properties of novel polymers, and have the biocompatibility and hemodynamics comparable to tissue substitutes. This study reports a comprehensive assessment of a nanocomposite based on the functionalised graphene oxide and poly(carbonate-urea)urethane with the trade name “Hastalex” in comparison with GORE-TEX, a commercial polymer routinely used for cardiovascular medical devices. Experimental data have proved that GORE-TEX has a 2.5-fold (longitudinal direction) and 3.5-fold (transverse direction) lower ultimate tensile strength in comparison with Hastalex (p < 0.05). The contact angles of Hastalex surfaces (85.2 ± 1.1°) significantly (p < 0.05) are lower than those of GORE-TEX (127.1 ± 6.8°). The highest number of viable cells Ea.hy 926 is on the Hastalex surface exceeding 7.5-fold when compared with the GORE-TEX surface (p < 0.001). The platelet deformation index for GORE-TEX is 2-fold higher than that of Hastalex polymer (p < 0.05). Calcium content is greater for GORE-TEX (8.4 mg/g) in comparison with Hastalex (0.55 mg/g). The results of this study have proven that Hastalex meets the main standards required for manufacturing artificial heart valves and has superior mechanical, hemocompatibility and calcific resistance properties in comparison with GORE-TEX.
Human Leukocyte Antigen alleles associated with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)
Authors: Lande Asgeir , Fluge Øystein , Strand Elin B. , Flåm Siri T. , Sosa Daysi D. , Mella Olav , Egeland Torstein , Saugstad Ola D. , Lie Benedicte A. , Viken Marte K.
Published: March 2020

The etiology and pathogenesis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) are unknown, and autoimmunity is one of many proposed underlying mechanisms. Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) associations are hallmarks of autoimmune disease, and have not been thoroughly investigated in a large ME/CFS patient cohort. We performed high resolution HLA -A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DQB1 and -DPB1 genotyping by next generation sequencing in 426 adult, Norwegian ME/CFS patients, diagnosed according to the Canadian Consensus Criteria. HLA associations were assessed by comparing to 4511 healthy and ethnically matched controls. Clinical information was collected through questionnaires completed by patients or relatives. We discovered two independent HLA associations, tagged by the alleles HLA-C*07:04 (OR 2.1 [95% CI 1.4–3.1]) and HLA-DQB1*03:03 (OR 1.5 [95% CI 1.1–2.0]). These alleles were carried by 7.7% and 12.7% of ME/CFS patients, respectively. The proportion of individuals carrying one or both of these alleles was 19.2% in the patient group and 12.2% in the control group (OR 1.7 [95% CI 1.3–2.2], pnc = 0.00003). ME/CFS is a complex disease, potentially with a substantial heterogeneity. We report novel HLA associations pointing toward the involvement of the immune system in ME/CFS pathogenesis.
GluN2A-selective positive allosteric modulator-nalmefene-flumazenil reverses ketamine-fentanyl-dexmedetomidine-induced anesthesia and analgesia in rats
Authors: Li Chunzhu , Yan Jia , Tang Dewei , Zhu Jidong , Huang Chen , Sun Yu , Hu Rong , Wang Hao , Fu Chaoying , Chen Yelin , Jiang Hong
Published: March 2020

Anesthetics are used to produce hypnosis and analgesic effects during surgery, but anesthesia for a long time after the operation is not conducive to the recovery of animals or patients. Therefore, finding appropriate treatments to counter the effects of anesthetics could enhance postoperative recovery. In the current study, we discovered the novel role of a GluN2A-selective positive allosteric modulator (PAM) in ketamine-induced anesthesia and investigated the effects of the PAM combined with nalmefene and flumazenil (PNF) in reversing the actions of an anesthetic combination (ketamine-fentanyl-dexmedetomidine, KFD). PAM treatment dose-dependently decreased the duration of the ketamine-induced loss of righting reflex (LORR). Compared with those in the KFD group, the duration of LORR and the analgesic effect of the KFD + PNF group were obviously decreased. Meanwhile, successive administration of PNF and KFD had no adverse effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Both the KFD group and the KFD + PNF group showed no changes in hepatic and renal function or cognitive function in rats. Moreover, the recovery of motor coordination of the KFD + PNF group was faster than that of the KFD group. In summary, our results suggest the potential application of the PNF combination as an antagonistic treatment strategy for anesthesia.
Interference with SRF expression in skeletal muscles reduces peripheral nerve regeneration in mice
Authors: Wanner Renate , Knöll Bernd
Published: March 2020

Traumatic injury of peripheral nerves typically also damages nerve surrounding tissue including muscles. Hence, molecular and cellular interactions of neighboring damaged tissues might be decisive for successful axonal regeneration of injured nerves. So far, the contribution of muscles and muscle-derived molecules to peripheral nerve regeneration has only poorly been studied. Herein, we conditionally ablated SRF (serum response factor), an important myofiber transcription factor, in skeletal muscles of mice. Subsequently, the impact of this myofiber-restricted SRF deletion on peripheral nerve regeneration, i.e. facial nerve injury was analyzed. Quantification of facial nerve regeneration by retrograde tracer transport, inspection of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and recovery of whisker movement revealed reduced axonal regeneration upon muscle specific Srf deletion. In contrast, responses in brainstem facial motor neuron cell bodies such as regeneration-associated gene (RAG) induction of Atf3, synaptic stripping and neuroinflammation were not overly affected by SRF deficiency. Mechanistically, SRF in myofibers appears to stimulate nerve regeneration through regulation of muscular satellite cell (SC) proliferation. In summary, our data suggest a role of muscle cells and SRF expression within muscles for regeneration of injured peripheral nerves.
Hoechst-tagged Fluorescein Diacetate for the Fluorescence Imaging-based Assessment of Stomatal Dynamics in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Takaoka Yousuke , Miyagawa Saki , Nakamura Akinobu , Egoshi Syusuke , Tsukiji Shinya , Ueda Minoru
Published: March 2020

In plants, stomata regulate water loss through transpiration for plant growth and survival in response to various environmental stressors; and simple methods to assess stomatal dynamics are needed for physiological studies. Herein, we report a fluorescence-imaging-based method using fluorescein diacetate tagged with Hoechst 33342, a nuclear staining chemical probe (HoeAc2Fl) for the qualitative assessment of stomatal dynamics. In our method, the stomatal movement is inferred by simple monitoring of the fluorescence intensity in the nucleus of the stomata.
Achieving sub-wavelength imaging through a flat hyperlens in a modified anodic aluminum oxide template
Authors: Tao Chung-Wei , Yen Ta-Jen , Huang Tsung-Yu
Published: March 2020

Constrained by the diffraction limit, a lens can only resolve features larger than half of the incident wavelength owing to the decaying nature of evanescent waves. Several novel devices have been proposed, for example, superlenses and hyperlenses to break this limit. In this work, we present a flat hyperlens composed of silver nanowires embedded in a modified anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template to demonstrate subwavelength imaging. Measurement conducted by the near-field scanning optical microscope at 633 nm suggests that our proposed flat hyperlens can indeed achieve sub-wavelength imaging with a resolution down to 0.34λ and 0.25λ along two orthogonal directions. Furthermore, to confirm the resolution limit of the flat hyperlens, numerical simulations were performed at the incident wavelengths of 633 and 365 nm, and the corresponding resolution were 0.19λ and 0.3λ, respectively, thus paving a route for sub-wavelength photolithography.
Antibody epitope repertoire analysis enables rapid antigen discovery and multiplex serology
Authors: Kamath Kathy , Reifert Jack , Johnston Timothy , Gable Cameron , Pantazes Robert J. , Rivera Hilda N. , McAuliffe Isabel , Handali Sukwan , Daugherty Patrick S.
Published: March 2020

The detection of pathogen-specific antibodies remains a cornerstone of clinical diagnostics. Yet, many test exhibit undesirable performance or are completely lacking. Given this, we developed serum epitope repertoire analysis (SERA), a method to rapidly discover conserved, pathogen-specific antigens and their epitopes, and applied it to develop an assay for Chagas disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Antibody binding peptide motifs were identified from 28 Chagas repertoires using a bacterial display random 12-mer peptide library and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Thirty-three motifs were selected and mapped to candidate Chagas antigens. In a blinded validation set (n = 72), 30/30 Chagas were positive, 30/30 non-Chagas were negative, and 1/12 Leishmania sp. was positive. After unblinding, a Leishmania cross-reactive epitope was identified and removed from the panel. The Chagas assay exhibited 100% sensitivity (30/30) and specificity (90/90) in a second blinded validation set including individuals with other parasitic infections. Amongst additional epitope repertoires with unknown Chagas serostatus, assay specificity was 99.8% (998/1000). Thus, the Chagas assay achieved a combined sensitivity and specificity equivalent or superior to diagnostic algorithms that rely on three separate tests to achieve high specificity. NGS-based serology via SERA provides an effective approach to discover antigenic epitopes and develop high performance multiplex serological assays.
Association between dental caries and adverse pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Cho Geum Joon , Kim So-youn , Lee Hoi Chang , Kim Ho Yeon , Lee Kyu-Min , Han Sung Won , Oh Min-Jeong
Published: March 2020

Poor oral health is not only associated with diabetes and cardiovascular disease but adverse pregnancy outcomes. However the influence of dental caries on pregnancy is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between dental caries and adverse pregnancy outcomes and the effect of treatment for dental caries on adverse pregnancy outcomes. Primiparas who delivered a singleton between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2014 and underwent both general health examination and oral health examination during a National Korea Health Screening Examination within 1 year of pregnancy were eligible. The data of the women who met the inclusion criteria were linked to the data of their offspring contained within the National Korea Health Screening Program for Infants and Children database. Among 120,622 women who delivered during the study period, 28,623 (23.7%) women had dental caries. Among them, 4,741 (16.6%) women were treated for dental caries after diagnosis. In a multivariable analysis, women with dental caries had an increased risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants (odds ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.07, 1.23) compared to those without dental caries. When women with dental caries were divided on the basis of the treatment of dental caries, women with dental caries but no treatment had an increased risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants (odds ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.06, 1.24); conversely, there was no increased risk in women with dental caries and treatment compared with those without. Dental caries and its treatment were not associated with preterm birth and preeclampsia. Untreated dental caries was not associated with preterm birth or preeclampsia but with the risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants. These whole observation may be attributed to the various characteristics of mothers who develop dental caries are not treated.
Isotopic Nitrogen-15 Labeling of Mice Identified Long-lived Proteins of the Renal Basement Membranes
Authors: Liu Pan , Xie Xinfang , Jin Jing
Published: March 2020

The kidney is comprised of highly complex structures that rely on self-maintenance for their functions, and tissue repair and regeneration in renal diseases. We devised a proteomics assay to measure the turnover of individual proteins in mouse kidney. Mice were metabolically labeled with a specially formulated chow containing nitrogen-15 (15N) with the absence of normal 14N atoms. Newly synthesized proteins with 15N contents were distinguished from their 14N counterparts by mass spectrometry. In total, we identified over 4,000 proteins from the renal cortex with a majority of them contained only 15N. About 100 proteins had both 14N- and 15N-contents. Notably, the long-lived proteins that had large 14N/15N ratios were mostly matrix proteins. These included proteins such as type IV and type VI collagen, laminin, nidogen and perlecan/HSPG2 that constitute the axial core of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). In contrast, the surface lamina rara proteins such as agrin and integrin had much shorter longevity, suggesting their faster regeneration cycle. The data illustrated matrix proteins that constitute the basement membranes in the renal cortex are constantly renewed in an ordered fashion. In perspective, the global profile of protein turnover is usefully in understanding the protein-basis of GBM maintenance and repair.
A live-cell super-resolution technique demonstrated by imaging germinosomes in wild-type bacterial spores
Authors: Breedijk R. M. P. , Wen J. , Krishnaswami V. , Bernas T. , Manders E. M. M. , Setlow P. , Vischer N. O. E. , Brul S.
Published: March 2020

Time-lapse fluorescence imaging of live cells at super-resolution remains a challenge, especially when the photon budget is limited. Current super-resolution techniques require either the use of special exogenous probes, high illumination doses or multiple image acquisitions with post-processing or combinations of the aforementioned. Here, we describe a new approach by combining annular illumination with rescan confocal microscopy. This optics-only technique generates images in a single scan, thereby avoiding any potential risks of reconstruction related artifacts. The lateral resolution is comparable to that of linear structured illumination microscopy and the axial resolution is similar to that of a standard confocal microscope. As a case study, we present super-resolution time-lapse imaging of wild-type Bacillus subtilis spores, which contain low numbers of germination receptor proteins in a focus (a germinosome) surrounded by an autofluorescent coat layer. Here, we give the first evidence for the existence of germinosomes in wild-type spores, show their spatio-temporal dynamics upon germinant addition and visualize spores coming to life.
Author Correction: Using de novo transcriptome assembly and analysis to study RNAi in Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Singh Satnam , Gupta Mridula , Pandher Suneet , Kaur Gurmeet , Goel Neha , Rathore Pankaj
Published: March 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Visualization of mucosal field in HPV positive and negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas: combined genomic and radiology based 3D model
Authors: Orosz Eva , Gombos Katalin , Petrevszky Nerina , Csonka David , Haber Istvan , Kaszas Balint , Toth Arnold , Molnar Krisztian , Kalacs Krisztina , Piski Zalan , Gerlinger Imre , Burian Andras , Bellyei Szabolcs , Szanyi Istvan
Published: March 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Multiferroic hydrogenated graphene bilayer
Authors: Lee Jo Hsueh , Cheng Cheng-Hung , Liao Bo-Rong , Lin Shi-Hsin
Published: March 2020

We investigated the multiferroic properties of a hydrogenated graphene bilayer using first-principles calculations.
Photocatalytic hydrogen generation coupled to pollutant utilisation using carbon dots produced from biomass
Authors: Achilleos Demetra S. , Kasap Hatice , Reisner Erwin
Published: March 2020

Carbon dots from biomass waste as efficient photoabsorbers for sustainable and scalable coupled solar-driven H2 evolution and pollutant utilisation.
Microfluidic device to study flow-free chemotaxis of swimming cells
Authors: Garcia-Seyda Nicolas , Aoun Laurene , Tishkova Victoria , Seveau Valentine , Biarnes-Pelicot Martine , Bajénoff Marc , Valignat Marie-Pierre , Theodoly Olivier
Published: March 2020

Permeable agarose barriers allow flow-free gradient generation, applicable to adherent and non-adherent (swimming) cells, as well as co-culture experiments.
Spatially-varying inversion near grain boundaries in MgAl2O4 spinel
Authors: Uberuaga Blas P. , Perriot Romain
Published: March 2020

Atomistic simulations reveal increased cation inversion at grain boundaries in spinel. As the grain size is reduced, the apparent level of inversion in the material will increase as the grain boundaries become an increasing fraction of the material.
Functionalizing triptycene to create 3D high-performance non-fullerene acceptors
Authors: Yang Yezi , Yao Chuang , Li Lei , Bo Maolin , Zhang Jianfeng , Peng Cheng , Wang Jinshan
Published: March 2020

A 3D fused-ring core, combined with three electron-withdrawing end groups, is used to construct novel three-bladed propeller-shaped FREAs.
Rapid synthesis of thermoelectric SnSe thin films by MPCVD
Authors: Feng Yuyu , Zhang Xi , Lei Li , Nie Ya , Xiang Gang
Published: March 2020

Here we report that a rapid and catalyst-free growth of high quality SnSe thin films can be achieved by using single-mode MPCVD with appropriate source materials, the SnSe films exhibit high TE performance.
Synthetic progress toward the marine natural product zamamiphidin A
Authors: Wang Hao , Tian Di , Meng Zhaoxiang , Chen Zhihao , Xue Fei , Liu Xiao-Yu , Song Hao , Qin Yong
Published: March 2020

An asymmetric synthetic approach to the octahydrofuro[3,4-b]pyridine framework of marine natural product zamamiphidin A has been described.
Gene editing and CRISPR in the clinic: current and future perspectives
Authors: Hirakawa Matthew P. , Krishnakumar Raga , Timlin Jerilyn A. , Carney James P. , Butler Kimberly S.
Published: March 2020

Genome editing technologies, particularly those based on zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat DNA sequences)/Cas9 are rapidly progressing into clinical trials. Most clinical use of CRISPR to date has focused on ex vivo gene editing of cells followed by their re-introduction back into the patient. The ex vivo editing approach is highly effective for many disease states, including cancers and sickle cell disease, but ideally genome editing would also be applied to diseases which require cell modification in vivo. However, in vivo use of CRISPR technologies can be confounded by problems such as off-target editing, inefficient or off-target delivery, and stimulation of counterproductive immune responses. Current research addressing these issues may provide new opportunities for use of CRISPR in the clinical space. In this review, we examine the current status and scientific basis of clinical trials featuring ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR-based genome editing, the known limitations of CRISPR use in humans, and the rapidly developing CRISPR engineering space that should lay the groundwork for further translation to clinical application.
Evidence from high-mass X-ray binaries that Galactic WR components of WR+O binaries end their life with a supernova explosion
Authors: Vanbeveren D. , Mennekens N. , van den Heuvel E. P. J. , Van Bever J.
Published: March 2020

Context. Theoretical population number studies of binaries with at least one black hole (BH) component obviously depend on whether or not BHs receive a (natal) kick during their formation.

Aims. Several observational facts seem to indicate that BHs do indeed receive a kick during their formation. In the present paper, we discuss additional evidence of this.

Methods. The progenitors of wind-fed high-mass X-ray binaries (HMXB) with a BH component (BH HMXB) are WR+OB binaries where the Wolf–Rayet (WR) star will finally collapse and form the BH. Starting from the observed population of WR+OB binaries in the solar neighborhood, we predict the population of wind-fed BH HMXBs as a function of the BH-natal kick.

Results. The simulations reveal that when WR stars collapse into a BH with a zero or low kick, we should expect 100 or more wind-fed BH HMXBs in the solar neighborhood, whereas only one is observed (Cyg X-1). We consider this as evidence that either WR components in binaries end their life as a neutron star or that they collapse into BHs, both accompanied by a supernova explosion imparting significant (natal) kicks.
Improvement of informational technologies in ecology
Authors: Baimukhanbetova Elmira , Onaltayev Darkhan , Daumova Gulzhan , Amralinova Bakytzhan , Amangeldiyev Azamat
Published: March 2020

A powerful force in the development of modern society is the intensive global spread of information and communication technologies that help to collect, store, analyze and distribute information.Today, there is a clear need for a broadapplications of computer technologies in various fields human activities, and in particular in the protection of the environment. The most important areas are geographic information systems and associated modeling of natural resources, technological processes, as well as data preparation, processing and analyze systems. Currently, the rapid development of computer technology, the introduction of modern computer technologies opens up wide opportunities to achieve a qualitative leap in the level of efficiency of information and control systems in aerospace engineering, manufacturing, transport, economy, ecology, medicine and other areas based on the use of artificial intelligence principles, methods of self-organization and adaptation to changing conditions and goals of functioning, characteristics of the system and the external environment, uncontrolled environment.
The Contribution of Migration to Sustainable Development: Western Vector of Migration from Central Asia (the US Case)
Authors: Gubaidullina Mara , Idrysheva Zhasira , Zhumatay Gabit , Issova Laura , Kulbayeva Almagul
Published: March 2020

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes for the first time the favorable contribution of migration to sustainable development. This document is called the “declaration of interdependence”, which is especially true for migration, which connects countries of origin and destination countries and has a huge impact on the lives of millions of migrants and their families. In the context of globalization, international migration has become a key challenge for both global development as well as for some state actors. At the present time there are several attractive centers on the planet for migration, which include highly advanced European Union countries, the United States, Canada and others. Although a number of issues of the migration process from the Central Asian republics to the United States are considered to be typical for any nation in the context of globalization, there are some regional peculiarities. The issue of immigration of the Central Asians to the United States is undoubtedly relatively a new and less studied phenomenon. The article provides a comparative analysis of the causes and consequences of the migration movement “overseas” in a country context, and its impact on diaspora relations. The goal of the article is to analyze of the migration process from the Central Asian republics to the United States in connection with international migration trends in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM).
International Protection Policy of World Biological Diversity as the Factor of Sustainable Development of the Territorial Systems
Authors: Stepanov Anatoly , Kovalev Yuri , Ilyushkina Maria , Burnasov Alexander
Published: March 2020

The article discusses the evolution of international biodiversity policy in the period from 1992 to 2019 as well as it demonstrates the significance of the global problem of species extinction and describes the structure and main directions of international biodiversity policy. The article presents the features of the negotiation process for the protection and use of the world biodiversity, the complexity of forming a unified global policy. Moreover, it outlines the main stages of development of the mechanisms for biodiversity protection. The main documents of international biodiversity diplomacy such as the Convention on biological diversity, the Cartagena and Nagoya protocols are analysed in the article. The role of groups of states in shaping the agenda of conferences, their positions and interests are also studied.
Integrated Processing of Secondary Raw Materials as the Main Direction of Ecologization of Beet Sugar Production In The Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors: Zhaxygulova Gulzira , Myrzabekova Maiya , Sadykova Guzel
Published: March 2020

Beet sugar production is one of the material-intensive industries, where the volume of raw and auxiliary materials used in production is several times higher than the output of finished products. It is also a source of multi-tonnage secondary resources, i.e. by-products and production waste, the main ones beingAbeet pulp, molasses and filtration sludge. Against the background of the implementation of the Sectoral Program of Beet Sugar Production Development in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2018-2027, there is a need to create a concept of ecologization of production, which will provide for the development of fundamentally new technologies to ensure minimum waste, combining environmentally friendly methods with cost-effective production of sugar beet and by-products. The bet should be made on low-cost technologies that will minimize production costs and environmental impact. In this article possible variants of sugar beet processing technologies with complex deep processing of waste are offered. The comparison of traditional technology and various variants of progressive technologies of sugar beet processing and production of new products from secondary resources was carried out, which allowed to determine revenue from complex processing of 1 ton of sugar beet.
Efficiency of price competition in the telecommunications market
Authors: Borodin Alex , Zholamanova Makpal , Panaedova Galina , Frumina Svetlana
Published: March 2020

Over the past few years, the Russian telecommunications market has shown one of the highest growth rates in the country. According to RBC media holding, which, in turn, refers to the independent consulting Agency TMT Consulting, in 2018, the market volume increased by 3.4% , 0.6 percentage points more than in 2017. The main driver of growth was the mobile business, whose revenue grew by 5% . Among the most likely reasons for such results, it is possible to identify the cancellation of most tariffs that provided unlimited Internet access to subscribers, and the termination of price competition. The rejection of tariff plans with unlimited Internet access allows the operator to increase the ARPU, which also reached a record high in 2018. The purpose of the article is to refute or prove the possibility of using price dumping mechanisms in the oligopolistic telecommunications market in Russia.
The impact of the environmental crisis on the purchasing power of consumers
Authors: Smagulov Askar , Zhatkanbaev Yerzhan , Tumbai Jumabek , Abdikul Shynar , Muratbekova Kymbat , Agymbay Asylbek
Published: March 2020

The subject of the article is purpose of consumer behavior and its direct connection and interaction with ecological situation in the world. Several examples show that consumption which exceeds the normal level is determined by irrational goals and motives. These motives have essentially the nature of public ritual. They are supported by the social imitation instinct rather than by conscious individual goal setting. The irrationality and arbitrariness of consumption purposes therefore means also the irrationality of the goals and meaning of the production. The conclusion is that an economic system which is based on another alternative ultimate goals and meanings may be more effective in the face of a growing environmental crisis.
Marketing and innovative aspects of the research of the competitiveness of countries in the grain market (for example, wheat)
Authors: Umarov Ilkhom , Shurenov Nursultan , Kozhamkulova Zhanna , Abisheva Kyz-Zhibek
Published: March 2020

This article discusses the key aspects of the development of grain production in countries exporting wheat and using innovations in its production. As you know, wheat is a strategic product of many countries and many sectors of the economy depend on its production. In terms of competitiveness, wheat ranks first among other agricultural products in terms of pricing and planting area. The yield and price of wheat are affected by many factors that are considered in this article. In order to analyze all aspects affecting the yield and price of wheat, we had to study the literature on the wheat market and its production. In addition, an analysis was made of the trends in the development of grain production in countries producing and exporting wheat. This study has collected data from the last 5 years for world countries exporting wheat.
Sustainability Balanced Scorecard for a Brazilian agricultural and livestock company
Authors: Araújo Lindiana , Oliveira Helena , Gomes Luís
Published: March 2020

The agricultural sector in Brazil has a noticeable impact on its wealth and a significant effect on sustainability. This study presents the corporate sustainability management through the integration of social and environmental issues in the traditional Balanced Scorecard, that is, through a Sustainability Balanced Scorecard (SBSC). It establishes causal relationships between economic, social and environmental perspectives, and highlights its potential impacts. This study relays on the Brazilian company with the largest amount of agricultural land. This company acquires, develop, exploit and commercialize rural properties that are suitable for agriculture. The main purpose of this paper is to study the company and to propose an SBSC. We present a qualitative case study based on interviews and on documental analysis. We conclude that, through this framework, sustainability can be aligned with the strategic management of the company. The implementation of an SBSC provides organizational benefits and must take into consideration the peculiarities of each organization.