bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taking an engineer's view: Implications of network analysis for computational psychiatry
Authors: Redish A. David , Kazinka Rebecca , Herman Alexander B.
Published: March 2019

An engineer's viewpoint on psychiatry asks:What are the failure modes that underlie psychiatric dysfunction?And:How can we modify the system?Psychiatry has made great strides in understanding and treating disorders using biology; however, failure modes and modification access points can also exist extrinsically in environmental interactions. The network analysis suggested by Borsboom et al. in the target article provides a new viewpoint that should be incorporated into current theoretical constructs, not placed in opposition to them.
Special, radical, failure of reduction in psychiatry
Authors: Ross Don
Published: March 2019

Use of network models to identify causal structure typically blocks reduction across the sciences. Entanglement of mental processes with environmental and intentional relationships, as Borsboom et al. argue, makes reduction of psychology to neuroscience particularly implausible. However, in psychiatry, a mental disorder can involve no brain disorder at all, even when the former crucially depends on aspects of brain structure. Gambling addiction constitutes an example.
Intentional content in psychopathologies requires an expanded interpretivism
Authors: Slors Marc , Francken Jolien C. , Strijbos Derek
Published: March 2019

We argue that the explanatory role of intentional content in connecting symptoms in a network approach to psychopathology hinges neither on causality nor on rationality. Instead, we argue that it hinges on a pluralistic body of practical and clinical know-how. Incorporating this practical approach to intentional state ascription in psychopathological cases expands and improves traditional interpretivism.
Problem behavior in autism spectrum disorders: A paradigmatic self-organized perspective of network structures
Authors: Tonello Lucio , Giacobbi Luca , Pettenon Alberto , Scuotto Alessandro , Cocchi Massimo , Gabrielli Fabio , Cappello Glenda
Published: March 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) subjects can present temporary behaviors of acute agitation and aggressiveness, named problem behaviors. They have been shown to be consistent with the self-organized criticality (SOC), a model wherein occasionally occurring “catastrophic events” are necessary in order to maintain a self-organized “critical equilibrium.” The SOC can represent the psychopathology network structures and additionally suggests that they can be considered as self-organized systems.
The adaptive self: Culture and social flexibility in feedback networks
Authors: Crafa Daina , Nagel Saskia K.
Published: March 2019

Culture contextualizes the contents and intentionality of many mental statuses. Cognitive mediation of cultural information shapes these contents and intentionalities, as well as many of the false beliefs of pathology. Flexibility of cognitive mediation processes and resulting beliefs and pathologies may vary by individual, be a key mechanism of the feedback loop, and help characterize network connections.
Neither biological nor symptomatology reductionism: A call for integration in psychopathology research
Authors: Nephew Benjamin C. , Febo Marcelo , Santos Hudson P
Published: March 2019

We agree with Borsboom et al. in challenging neurobiological reductionism, and underscore some specific strengths of a network approach. However, they do not acknowledge that a similar problem is present in current psychosocial frameworks. We discuss this challenge as well as describe valuable parallels between symptom and neurobiological network theories that will substantially augment psychopathological research when integrated.
The Kuomintang in Malaya, 1912-1941
Authors: Seng Png Poh
Published: March 2019

The formation of the Kuomintang in 1912 was the culmination of a period of reform and revolution. The reformist movement in China began with the rise of men like K'ang Yu-wei, Liang Ch'i-ch'ao and Chang Chih-tung, who saw in the foreign penetration a threat to China's territorial integrity. These reformists prevailed upon the Emperor Kuairg Hsu, to adopt modern measures with a view to strengthening China. In 1898 a series of edicts were speedily passed for the reformation of China. These edicts, commonly known as the “Hundred Days Reform”, came to. nought when the Empress Dowager Tzu Hsi carried out a coup d'etat and China returned to her former ways.
Child maltreatment, adaptive functioning, and polygenic risk: A structural equation mixture model
Authors: Thibodeau Eric L. , Masyn Katherine E. , Rogosch Fred A. , Cicchetti Dante
Published: March 2019

This study used a structural equation mixture model to examine associations between child maltreatment, polygenic risk, and indices of adaptive functioning. Children aged 6 to 13 years (N = 1,004), half maltreated, half nonmaltreated, were recruited to attend a research day camp. Multi-informant indicators of prosocial behavior, antisocial behavior, withdrawn behavior, and depression were collected and used in a latent class analysis. Four classes emerged, characterizing “well-adjusted,” “externalizing,” “internalizing,” and “socially dominant” groups. Twelve genetic variants, previously reported in the Gene × Environment literature, were modeled as one weighted polygenic risk score. Large main effects between maltreatment and adaptive functioning were observed (Wald = 35.3, df = 3, p < .0001), along with evidence of a small Gene × Environment effect (Wald = 13.5, df = 3, p = .004), adjusting for sex, age, and covariate interaction effects.
Die WISC–IV in der klinisch psychologischen Anwendung bei 6- bis 13-Jährigen in einer sozialpädiatrischen Stichprobe
Authors: Renner Gerolf , Irblich Dieter , Schroeder Anne
Published: March 2019

Zusammenfassung. Psychometrische Eigenschaften der WISC–IV wurden bei 649 Kindern im Alter von 6 – 13 Jahren, die in Sozialpädiatrischen Zentren vorgestellt wurden, überprüft. Erfasst wurden ICD-10-Diagnosen und bei Teilstichproben weitere Intelligenzmaße (K–ABC, SON–R 2½–7) und Verhaltensratings (CBCL/4–18). Der mittlere Gesamt-IQ lag bei 92.5 ( SD=15.9). Die split-half Reliabilität der Kerntests lag in den Altersjahrgängen zwischen .75 und .96, die Reliabilität der Indizes zwischen .91 und .96. Es fanden sich keine bedeutsamen Abweichungen von den im Manual berichteten Reliabilitätskennwerten. Analysen zur konvergenten und diskriminanten Validität zeigten signifikante Korrelationen des Gesamt-IQ der WISC-IV mit dem SON-R 2½-7 ( r = .63) und der K-ABC ( r = .80) , während sich zu Verhaltensvariablen (CBCL/4–18) keine bedeutsamen Zusammenhänge fanden. Insgesamt konnten wesentliche Gütekriterien der WISC–IV in der klinischen Anwendungspraxis repliziert werden, was die Brauchbarkeit des Verfahrens für diesen Anwendungsbereich bestätigt.
Multicycle Dynamics of the Aksay Bend Along the Altyn Tagh Fault in Northwest China: 1. A Simplified Double Bend
Authors: Duan Benchun
Published: March 2019

I perform multicycle dynamic simulations of a restraining double bend that is simplified from the Aksay bend along the Altyn Tagh Fault in northwest China. The earthquake cycle includes a coseismic dynamic rupture phase and an interseismic stress loading and relaxation phase. The double bend fault system has two fault strands and each strand comprises a stem segment that strikes parallel to the maximum shear loading direction and a bend segment that deviates from the loading direction. I find that the restraining double bend is an effective barrier to dynamically propagating ruptures over multiple earthquake cycles, with a probability of rupture jumping from one strand to the other varying from 0% to 10%, depending on parameter values of the rate dependence of friction during the dynamic phase and the viscosity for stress relaxation during the interseismic phase. The critical condition for the primary rupture on the first strand to jump onto the second strand is that the preshear stress is close enough to the shear strength over a certain size of the fault patch on the second strand. These results on the simplified double bend provide important insights into rupture behavior of geometrically complex faults over multiple earthquake cycles in general and a reference to explore rupture behavior of the Aksay bend in particular.
Reply to Comment by Zhang on “Exploring the Influence of Smallholders' Perceptions Regarding Water Availability on Crop Choice and Water Allocation Through Socio‐hydrological Modeling”
Authors: Kuil L. , Evans T. , McCord P. F. , Salinas J. L. , Blöschl G.
Published: March 2019

Zhang (2019, https://doi.org/10.1002/wrcr.v54.4) criticizes several of the assumptions and parameter choices of the model of Kuil et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017WR021420) and claims that, due to an inconsistency in the irrigation equation, the key findings should be interpreted with much caution. We address each of the comments and show that the conclusions of Kuil et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017WR021420) remain fully valid.
Inflexible habitual decision-making during choice between cocaine and a nondrug alternative
Authors: Vandaele Youna , Vouillac-Mendoza Caroline , Ahmed Serge H.
Published: March 2019

The concept of compulsive cocaine-seeking habits is difficult to reconcile with other evidence showing that humans and even rats remain able to shift their choice away from the drug and toward an alternative nondrug reward, when available. This paradox could dissolve if preference for the nondrug option reflected in fact inflexible habitual decision-making (i.e., fixed in a habitual control mode, with no return to a goal-directed control mode). Previous research in rats has shown that prior drug use can favor habit formation, but whether the resulting habits are inflexible or not is largely unknown. Here we addressed this question by manipulating the value of water in rats that chose between water and cocaine in a discrete-trials procedure. Rats preferred water when thirsty and maintained this preference despite water devaluation by satiation. Only with repeated daily testing under water satiation did they progressively reverse their preference toward cocaine. Additional evidence showed that this progressive reversal of preference reflected in fact new interoceptive discrimination learning. Overall, this study suggests that rats seem to be stuck in a habitual decision-making mode, unable to return to a goal-directed mode upon experiencing a change in options value. It also reveals that inflexible decision-making does not necessarily promote drug choice, but can also under some circumstances favor abstinence.
Correction: Association of symptoms and interval breast cancers in the mammography-screening programme: population-based matched cohort study
Authors: Singh Deependra , Miettinen Joonas , Duffy Stephen , Malila Nea , Pitkäniemi Janne , Anttila Ahti
Published: March 2019

The authors report that the labels indicating the symptom types and no symptom lines in the original version of Figure 2 were missing. The correct version of Figure 2 with the labels included is provided below.
Complex wireframe DNA nanostructures from simple building blocks
Authors: Wang Wen , Chen Silian , An Byoungkwon , Huang Kai , Bai Tanxi , Xu Mengyuan , Bellot Gaëtan , Ke Yonggang , Xiang Ye , Wei Bryan
Published: March 2019

DNA nanostructures with increasing complexity have showcased the power of programmable self-assembly from DNA strands. At the nascent stage of the field, a variety of small branched objects consisting of a few DNA strands were created. Since then, a quantum leap of complexity has been achieved by a scaffolded ‘origami’ approach and a scaffold-free approach using single-stranded tiles/bricks—creating fully addressable two-dimensional and three-dimensional DNA nanostructures designed on densely packed lattices. Recently, wireframe architectures have been applied to the DNA origami method to construct complex structures. Here, revisiting the original wireframe framework entirely made of short synthetic strands, we demonstrate a design paradigm that circumvents the sophisticated routing and size limitations intrinsic to the scaffold strand in DNA origami. Under this highly versatile self-assembly framework, we produce a myriad of wireframe structures, including 2D arrays, tubes, polyhedra, and multi-layer 3D arrays.
High performance planar germanium-on-silicon single-photon avalanche diode detectors
Authors: Vines Peter , Kuzmenko Kateryna , Kirdoda Jarosław , Dumas Derek C. S. , Mirza Muhammad M. , Millar Ross W. , Paul Douglas J. , Buller Gerald S.
Published: March 2019

Single-photon detection has emerged as a method of choice for ultra-sensitive measurements of picosecond optical transients. In the short-wave infrared, semiconductor-based single-photon detectors typically exhibit relatively poor performance compared with all-silicon devices operating at shorter wavelengths. Here we show a new generation of planar germanium-on-silicon (Ge-on-Si) single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) detectors for short-wave infrared operation. This planar geometry has enabled a significant step-change in performance, demonstrating single-photon detection efficiency of 38% at 125 K at a wavelength of 1310 nm, and a fifty-fold improvement in noise equivalent power compared with optimised mesa geometry SPADs. In comparison with InGaAs/InP devices, Ge-on-Si SPADs exhibit considerably reduced afterpulsing effects. These results, utilising the inexpensive Ge-on-Si platform, provide a route towards large arrays of efficient, high data rate Ge-on-Si SPADs for use in eye-safe automotive LIDAR and future quantum technology applications.
Ufbp1 promotes plasma cell development and ER expansion by modulating distinct branches of UPR
Authors: Zhu Huabin , Bhatt Brinda , Sivaprakasam Sathish , Cai Yafei , Liu Siyang , Kodeboyina Sai Karthik , Patel Nikhil , Savage Natasha M. , Sharma Ashok , Kaufman Randal J. , Li Honglin , Singh Nagendra
Published: March 2019

The IRE1α/XBP1 branch of unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway has a critical function in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) expansion in plasma cells via unknown mechanisms; interestingly, another UPR branch, PERK, is suppressed during plasma cell development. Here we show that Ufbp1, a target and cofactor of the ufmylation pathway, promotes plasma cell development by suppressing the activation of PERK. By contrast, the IRE1α/XBP1 axis upregulates the expression of Ufbp1 and ufmylation pathway genes in plasma cells, while Ufbp1 deficiency impairs ER expansion in plasma cells and retards immunoglobulin production. Structure and function analysis suggests that lysine 267 of Ufbp1, the main lysine in Ufbp1 that undergoes ufmylation, is dispensable for the development of plasmablasts, but is required for immunoglobulin production and stimulation of ER expansion in IRE1α-deficient plasmablasts. Thus, Ufbp1 distinctly regulates different branches of UPR pathway to promote plasma cell development and function.
Polymer gels with tunable ionic Seebeck coefficient for ultra-sensitive printed thermopiles
Authors: Zhao Dan , Martinelli Anna , Willfahrt Andreas , Fischer Thomas , Bernin Diana , Khan Zia Ullah , Shahi Maryam , Brill Joseph , Jonsson Magnus P. , Fabiano Simone , Crispin Xavier
Published: March 2019

Measuring temperature and heat flux is important for regulating any physical, chemical, and biological processes. Traditional thermopiles can provide accurate and stable temperature reading but they are based on brittle inorganic materials with low Seebeck coefficient, and are difficult to manufacture over large areas. Recently, polymer electrolytes have been proposed for thermoelectric applications because of their giant ionic Seebeck coefficient, high flexibility and ease of manufacturing. However, the materials reported to date have positive Seebeck coefficients, hampering the design of ultra-sensitive ionic thermopiles. Here we report an “ambipolar” ionic polymer gel with giant negative ionic Seebeck coefficient. The latter can be tuned from negative to positive by adjusting the gel composition. We show that the ion-polymer matrix interaction is crucial to control the sign and magnitude of the ionic Seebeck coefficient. The ambipolar gel can be easily screen printed, enabling large-area device manufacturing at low cost.
Percolation thresholds for photonic quantum computing
Authors: Pant Mihir , Towsley Don , Englund Dirk , Guha Saikat
Published: March 2019

Despite linear-optical fusion (Bell measurement) being probabilistic, photonic cluster states for universal quantum computation can be prepared without feed-forward by fusing small n-photon entangled clusters, if the success probability of each fusion attempt is above a threshold, $${\mathrm{\lambda }}_{\mathrm{c}}^{(n)}$$

λ

c

(

n

)

. We prove a general bound $${\mathrm{\lambda }}_{\mathrm{c}}^{(n)} \ge 1/(n - 1)$$

λ

c

(

n

)

≥
1
∕

(

n
-
1

)

, and develop a conceptual method to construct long-range-connected clusters where $${\mathrm{\lambda }}_{\mathrm{c}}^{(n)}$$

λ

c

(

n

)

becomes the bond percolation threshold of a logical graph. This mapping lets us find constructions that require lower fusion success probabilities than currently known, and settle a heretofore open question by showing that a universal cluster state can be created by fusing 3-photon clusters over a 2D lattice with a fusion success probability that is achievable with linear optics and single photons, making this attractive for integrated-photonic realizations.
Reversible defect engineering in graphene grain boundaries
Authors: Balasubramanian Krishna , Biswas Tathagatha , Ghosh Priyadarshini , Suran Swathi , Mishra Abhishek , Mishra Rohan , Sachan Ritesh , Jain Manish , Varma Manoj , Pratap Rudra , Raghavan Srinivasan
Published: March 2019

Research efforts in large area graphene synthesis have been focused on increasing grain size. Here, it is shown that, beyond 1 μm grain size, grain boundary engineering determines the electronic properties of the monolayer. It is established by chemical vapor deposition experiments and first-principle calculations that there is a thermodynamic correlation between the vapor phase chemistry and carbon potential at grain boundaries and triple junctions. As a result, boundary formation can be controlled, and well-formed boundaries can be intentionally made defective, reversibly. In 100 µm long channels this aspect is demonstrated by reversibly changing room temperature electronic mobilities from 1000 to 20,000 cm2 V−1 s−1. Water permeation experiments show that changes are localized to grain boundaries. Electron microscopy is further used to correlate the global vapor phase conditions and the boundary defect types. Such thermodynamic control is essential to enable consistent growth and control of two-dimensional layer properties over large areas.
Multispectral optoacoustic imaging of dynamic redox correlation and pathophysiological progression utilizing upconversion nanoprobes
Authors: Ai Xiangzhao , Wang Zhimin , Cheong Haolun , Wang Yong , Zhang Ruochong , Lin Jun , Zheng Yuanjin , Gao Mingyuan , Xing Bengang
Published: March 2019

Precise and differential profiling of the dynamic correlations and pathophysiological implications of multiplex biological mediators with deep penetration and highly programmed precision remain critical challenges in clinics. Here we present an innovative strategy by tailoring a powerful multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT) technique with a photon-upconverting nanoprobe (UCN) for simultaneous visualization of diversely endogenous redox biomarkers with excellent spatiotemporal resolution in living conditions. Upon incorporating two specific radicals-sensitive NIR cyanine fluorophores onto UCNs surface, such nanoprobes can orthogonally respond to disparate oxidative and nitrosative stimulation, and generate spectrally opposite optoacoustic signal variations, which thus achieves compelling superiorities for reversed ratiometric tracking of multiple radicals under dual independent wavelength channels, and significantly, for precise validating of their complex dynamics and correlations with redox-mediated pathophysiological procession in vivo.
Regnase-1-mediated post-transcriptional regulation is essential for hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell homeostasis
Authors: Kidoya Hiroyasu , Muramatsu Fumitaka , Shimamura Teppei , Jia Weizhen , Satoh Takashi , Hayashi Yumiko , Naito Hisamichi , Kunisaki Yuya , Arai Fumio , Seki Masahide , Suzuki Yutaka , Osawa Tsuyoshi , Akira Shizuo , Takakura Nobuyuki
Published: March 2019

The balance between self-renewal and differentiation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) maintains hematopoietic homeostasis, failure of which can lead to hematopoietic disorder. HSPC fate is controlled by signals from the bone marrow niche resulting in alteration of the stem cell transcription network. Regnase-1, a member of the CCCH zinc finger protein family possessing RNAse activity, mediates post-transcriptional regulatory activity through degradation of target mRNAs. The precise function of Regnase-1 has been explored in inflammation-related cytokine expression but its function in hematopoiesis has not been elucidated. Here, we show that Regnase-1 regulates self-renewal of HSPCs through modulating the stability of Gata2 and Tal1 mRNA. In addition, we found that dysfunction of Regnase-1 leads to the rapid onset of abnormal hematopoiesis. Thus, our data reveal that Regnase-1-mediated post-transcriptional regulation is required for HSPC maintenance and suggest that it represents a leukemia tumor suppressor.
Harnessing liquid-in-liquid printing and micropatterned substrates to fabricate 3-dimensional all-liquid fluidic devices
Authors: Feng Wenqian , Chai Yu , Forth Joe , Ashby Paul D. , Russell Thomas P. , Helms Brett A.
Published: March 2019

Systems comprised of immiscible liquids held in non-equilibrium shapes by the interfacial assembly and jamming of nanoparticle−polymer surfactants have significant potential to advance catalysis, chemical separations, energy storage and conversion. Spatially directing functionality within them and coupling processes in both phases remains a challenge. Here, we exploit nanoclay−polymer surfactant assemblies at an oil−water interface to produce a semi-permeable membrane between the liquids, and from them all-liquid fluidic devices with bespoke properties. Flow channels are fabricated using micropatterned 2D substrates and liquid-in-liquid 3D printing. The anionic walls of the device can be functionalized with cationic small molecules, enzymes, and colloidal nanocrystal catalysts. Multi-step chemical transformations can be conducted within the channels under flow, as can selective mass transport across the liquid−liquid interface for in-line separations. These all-liquid systems become automated using pumps, detectors, and control systems, revealing a latent ability for chemical logic and learning.
Neutrophils promote the development of reparative macrophages mediated by ROS to orchestrate liver repair
Authors: Yang Wenting , Tao Yuandong , Wu Yan , Zhao Xinyuan , Ye Weijie , Zhao Dianyuan , Fu Ling , Tian Caiping , Yang Jing , He Fuchu , Tang Li
Published: March 2019

Phagocytes, including neutrophils and macrophages, have been suggested to function in a cooperative way in the initial phase of inflammatory responses, but their interaction and integration in the resolution of inflammation and tissue repair remain unclear. Here we show that neutrophils have crucial functions in liver repair by promoting the phenotypic conversion of pro-inflammatory Ly6ChiCX3CR1lo monocytes/macrophages to pro-resolving Ly6CloCX3CR1hi macrophages. Intriguingly, reactive oxygen species (ROS), expressed predominantly by neutrophils, are important mediators that trigger this phenotypic conversion to promote liver repair. Moreover, this conversion is prevented by the depletion of neutrophils via anti-Ly6G antibody, genetic deficiency of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, or genetic deficiency of NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2). By contrast, adoptive transfer of WT rather than Nox2−/− neutrophils rescues the impaired phenotypic conversion of macrophages in neutrophil-depleted mice. Our findings thus identify an intricate cooperation between neutrophils and macrophages that orchestrate resolution of inflammation and tissue repair.
Phase segregation due to ion migration in all-inorganic mixed-halide perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Zhang Huichao , Fu Xu , Tang Ying , Wang Hua , Zhang Chunfeng , Yu William W. , Wang Xiaoyong , Zhang Yu , Xiao Min
Published: March 2019

Semiconductor mixed-halide perovskites featured with a tunable energy bandgap are ideal candidates for light absorbers in tandem solar cells as well as fluorescent materials in light-emitting diodes and nanoscale lasers. These device advancements are currently hindered by the light-induced phase segregation effect, whereby ion migration would yield smaller-bandgap domains with red-shifted photoluminescence. Here we show that upon laser excitation all-inorganic mixed-halide nanocrystals unexpectedly exhibit a blue shift in the photoluminescence peak that can revert back in the dark, thus depicting the processes of ion migration out of and back to the originally excited nanocrystals. Interestingly, this reversible photoluminescence shift can also be induced by electrical biasing of mixed-halide nanocrystals without the injection of charge carriers. The above findings suggest that it is the local electric field that breaks the ionic bonds in mixed-halide nanocrystals, which could be a universal origin for light-induced phase segregation observed in other mixed-halide perovskite materials.
A complex hydride lithium superionic conductor for high-energy-density all-solid-state lithium metal batteries
Authors: Kim Sangryun , Oguchi Hiroyuki , Toyama Naoki , Sato Toyoto , Takagi Shigeyuki , Otomo Toshiya , Arunkumar Dorai , Kuwata Naoaki , Kawamura Junichi , Orimo Shin-ichi
Published: March 2019

All-solid-state batteries incorporating lithium metal anode have the potential to address the energy density issues of conventional lithium-ion batteries that use flammable organic liquid electrolytes and low-capacity carbonaceous anodes. However, they suffer from high lithium ion transfer resistance, mainly due to the instability of the solid electrolytes against lithium metal, limiting their use in practical cells. Here, we report a complex hydride lithium superionic conductor, 0.7Li(CB9H10)–0.3Li(CB11H12), with excellent stability against lithium metal and a high conductivity of 6.7 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 25 °C. This complex hydride exhibits stable lithium plating/stripping reaction with negligible interfacial resistance (<1 Ω cm2) at 0.2 mA cm−2, enabling all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries with high energy density (>2500 Wh kg−1) at a high current density of 5016 mA g−1. The present study opens up an unexplored research area in the field of solid electrolyte materials, contributing to the development of high-energy-density batteries.
Pressure-tuning the quantum spin Hamiltonian of the triangular lattice antiferromagnet Cs2CuCl4
Authors: Zvyagin S. A. , Graf D. , Sakurai T. , Kimura S. , Nojiri H. , Wosnitza J. , Ohta H. , Ono T. , Tanaka H.
Published: March 2019

Quantum triangular-lattice antiferromagnets are important prototype systems to investigate numerous phenomena of the geometrical frustration in condensed matter. Apart from highly unusual magnetic properties, they possess a rich phase diagram (ranging from an unfrustrated square lattice to a quantum spin liquid), yet to be confirmed experimentally. One major obstacle in this area of research is the lack of materials with appropriate (ideally tuned) magnetic parameters. Using Cs2CuCl4 as a model system, we demonstrate an alternative approach, where, instead of the chemical composition, the spin Hamiltonian is altered by hydrostatic pressure. The approach combines high-pressure electron spin resonance and r.f. susceptibility measurements, allowing us not only to quasi-continuously tune the exchange parameters, but also to accurately monitor them. Our experiments indicate a substantial increase of the exchange coupling ratio from 0.3 to 0.42 at a pressure of 1.8 GPa, revealing a number of emergent field-induced phases.
Autonomous helical propagation of active toroids with mechanical action
Authors: Shen Bowen , Zhu Youliang , Kim Yongju , Zhou Xiaobin , Sun Haonan , Lu Zhongyuan , Lee Myongsoo
Published: March 2019

Self-assembly in nature is fundamentally dynamic, existing in out-of-equilibrium state in which the systems have the ability to autonomously respond to environmental changes. However, artificial systems exist in a global minimum state, which are incapable of conducting such complex functions. Here we report that input of thermal energy can trigger fixed, artificial toroids to spontaneously nucleate helical growth. The helical polymerization undergoes reversible and repeatable cycles with subsequent energy input. When the toroids are located inside lipid vesicles, the polymerization-depolymerization cycle is accompanied by reversible elongation of spherical vesicles. Such liberation from a global minimum state will pave the way to create emergent structures with functions as complex as those of living systems.
Author Correction: Subclonal mutation selection in mouse lymphomagenesis identifies known cancer loci and suggests novel candidates
Authors: Webster Philip , Dawes Joanna C. , Dewchand Hamlata , Takacs Katalin , Iadarola Barbara , Bolt Bruce J. , Caceres Juan J. , Kaczor Jakub , Dharmalingam Gopuraja , Dore Marian , Game Laurence , Adejumo Thomas , Elliott James , Naresh Kikkeri , Karimi Mohammad , Rekopoulou Katerina , Tan Ge , Paccanaro Alberto , Uren Anthony G.
Published: March 2019

The original version of this Article contained an error in the hyperlink for the online repository http://mulvdb.org which was incorrectly given as http://mulv.lms.mrc.ac.uk. This has been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Publisher Correction: Response dynamics of rat barrel cortex neurons to repeated sensory stimulation
Authors: Kheradpezhouh Ehsan , Adibi Mehdi , Arabzadeh Ehsan
Published: March 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Development of selective cytotoxic viral vectors for concentration of undifferentiated cells in cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Kono Ken , Sawada Rumi , Kuroda Takuya , Yasuda Satoshi , Matsuyama Satoko , Matsuyama Akifumi , Mizuguchi Hiroyuki , Sato Yoji
Published: March 2019

Cell-processed therapeutic products (CTPs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have innovative applications in regenerative medicine. However, undifferentiated hPSCs possess tumorigenic potential; thus, sensitive methods for the detection of residual undifferentiated hPSCs are essential for the clinical use of hPSC-derived CTPs. The detection limit of the methods currently available is 1/105 (0.001%, undifferentiated hPSCs/differentiated cells) or more, which could be insufficient for the detection of residual hPSCs when CTPs contain more than 1 × 105 cells. In this study, we developed a novel approach to overcome this challenge, using adenovirus and adeno-associated virus (AdV and AAV)-based selective cytotoxic vectors. We constructed AdV and AAV vectors that possess a suicide gene, iCaspase 9 (iCasp9), regulated by the CMV promoter, which is dormant in hPSCs, for the selective expression of iCasp9 in differentiated cells. As expected, AdV/CMV-iCasp9 and AAV/CMV-iCasp9 exhibited cytotoxicity in cardiomyocytes but not in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). The vectors also induced apoptosis in hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, and the surviving cells exhibited higher levels of hPSC marker expression. These results indicate that the AdV- and AAV-based cytotoxic vectors concentrate cells expressing the undifferentiated cell markers in hiPSC-derived products and are promising biological tools for verifying the quality of CTPs.
Robotic-Assisted 3D Bio-printing for Repairing Bone and Cartilage Defects through a Minimally Invasive Approach
Authors: Lipskas Julius , Deep Kamal , Yao Wei
Published: March 2019

There is an unmet need for new techniques and methods of healing critical size tissue defects, by further reduction of invasiveness in implant, cell and tissue-based surgery. This paper presents the development of a new regenerative medicine that combines 3D bio-printing and robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery techniques to meet this need. We investigated the feasibility of Remote Centre of Motion (RCM) and viscous material extrusion 3D printing. A hypothetical, intra-articular, regenerative medicine-based treatment technique for focal cartilage defects of the knee was used as a potential example of the application of 3D printing in vivo. The results of this study suggest, that RCM mechanism is feasible with viscous material extrusion 3D printing processes, without a major trade-off in imprint quality. The achieved printing accuracy at an average dimensional error of 0.06 ± 0.14 mm in this new modality of 3D printing is comparable to those described in literature for other types of bio-printing. Robotic assisted 3D bio-printing demonstrated here is a viable option for focal cartilage defect restoration.
Mouse mast cell protease 4 suppresses scar formation after traumatic spinal cord injury
Authors: Vangansewinkel Tim , Lemmens Stefanie , Geurts Nathalie , Quanten Kirsten , Dooley Dearbhaile , Pejler Gunnar , Hendrix Sven
Published: March 2019

Spinal cord injury (SCI) triggers the formation of a glial and fibrotic scar, which creates a major barrier for neuroregenerative processes. Previous findings indicate that mast cells (MCs) protect the spinal cord after mechanical damage by suppressing detrimental inflammatory processes via mouse mast cell protease 4 (mMCP4), a MC-specific chymase. In addition to these immunomodulatory properties, mMCP4 also plays an important role in tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix degradation. Therefore, we have investigated the effects of mMCP4 on the scarring response after SCI. We demonstrate that the decrease in locomotor performance in mMCP4−/− mice is correlated with excessive scar formation at the lesion. The expression of axon-growth inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans was dramatically increased in the perilesional area in mMCP4−/− mice compared to wild type mice. Moreover, the fibronectin-, laminin-, and collagen IV-positive scar was significantly enlarged in mMCP4−/− mice at the lesion center. A degradation assay revealed that mMCP4 directly cleaves collagen IV in vitro. On the gene expression level, neurocan and GFAP were significantly higher in the mMCP4−/− group at day 2 and day 28 after injury respectively. In contrast, the expression of fibronectin and collagen IV was reduced in mMCP4−/− mice compared to WT mice at day 7 after SCI. In conclusion, our data show that mMCP4 modulates scar development after SCI by altering the gene and protein expression patterns of key scar factors in vivo. Therefore, we suggest a new mechanism via which endogenous mMCP4 can improve recovery after SCI.
Multidimensional approach to formulating a specialized diet for northern corn rootworm larvae
Authors: Huynh Man P. , Hibbard Bruce E. , Lapointe Stephen L. , Niedz Randall P. , French B. Wade , Pereira Adriano E. , Finke Deborah L. , Shelby Kent S. , Coudron Thomas A.
Published: March 2019

The northern corn rootworm (NCR),Diabrotica barberiSmith & Lawrence, is a major pest of maize (Zea maysL.). This pest has developed resistance to insecticides and adapted to crop rotation and may already be in the early stages of adaptation to toxins produced byBacillus thuringiensis(Bt). Toxicity bioassays using artificial diet have proven to be valuable for monitoring resistance in many species, but no artificial diet has been developed specifically for NCR larvae. Toward this end, we first evaluated knownDiabroticadiets to identify a starting media. We then developed a specialized diet for NCR using an iterative approach. Screening designs including 8 diet components were performed to identify the principal nutritional components contributing to multiple developmental parameters (survival, weight, and molting). We then applied mixture designs coupled with response surface modeling to optimize a blend of those components. Finally, we validated an improved NCR diet formulation that supports approximately 97% survival and molting, and a 150% increase in larval weight after 10 days of feeding compared with the best previously published artificial diet. This formulation appears suitable for use in diet bioassays as a tool for evaluating the resistance of NCR populations to insecticides.
“Hit the missing stimulus”. A simultaneous EEG-fMRI study to localize the generators of endogenous ERPs in an omitted target paradigm
Authors: Ragazzoni Aldo , Di Russo Francesco , Fabbri Serena , Pesaresi Ilaria , Di Rollo Andrea , Perri Rinaldo Livio , Barloscio Davide , Bocci Tommaso , Cosottini Mirco , Sartucci Ferdinando
Published: March 2019

Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) occurring independently from any stimulus are purely endogenous (emitted potentials) and their neural generators can be unequivocally linked with cognitive processes. In the present study, the subjects performed two similar visual counting tasks: a standard two-stimulus oddball, and an omitted-target oddball task, characterized by the physical absence of the target stimulus. Our investigation aimed at localizing the neural sources of the scalp-recorded endogenous/emitted ERPs. To optimize the source localization, the high temporal resolution of electrophysiology was combined with the fine spatial information provided by the simultaneous recording of functional magnetic resonance (fMRI). Both tasks identified two endogenous ERP components in the 300 to 520 ms interval. An earlier component, pP2, showed a bilateral generator in the anterior Insula. A later P3 component (P3b) was generated bilaterally in the temporal-parietal junction, the premotor and motor area and the anterior intraparietal sulcus (this latter one only in the standard oddball). Anticipatory slow waves (beginning 900 to 500 ms pre-stimulus), also of endogenous nature, were produced by the inferior and middle frontal gyrus and the supplementary and cingulate motor areas. Our protocol disentangled pre- from post-stimulus fMRI activations and provided original clues to the psychophysiological interpretation of emitted/endogenous ERPs.
Structural properties and enzyme stabilization function of the intrinsically disordered LEA_4 protein TdLEA3 from wheat
Authors: Koubaa Sana , Bremer Anne , Hincha Dirk K. , Brini Faiçal
Published: March 2019

Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins are mostly predicted to be intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) that are induced under conditions of cellular dehydration. Their functions, however, are largely unexplored and also their structure and interactions with potential target molecules have only recently been investigated in a small number of proteins. Here, we have characterized the wheat LEA protein TdLEA3, which has sequence homology with the group of LEA_4 proteins that are characterized by the 11-mer repeat motif TAQAAKEKAXE. TdLEA3 has five repeats of this imperfectly conserved 11-mer amino acid motif. To investigate the structure of the protein, we used circular dichroism (CD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The data show that TdLEA3 was largely disordered under fully hydrated conditions and acquired α-helical structure upon drying and in the presence of trifluoroethanol (TFE). Moreover, the addition of increasing glycerol concentrations to the protein solution induced a progressive gain in α-helix content. Activity assays indicated that TdLEA3 was able to prevent the inactivation of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) under heat, dehydration-rehydration and freeze-thaw treatments. In addition, TdLEA3 reduced aggregate formation in the enzyme during these treatments.
Effects of RNAi-based silencing of chitin synthase gene on moulting and fecundity in pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum)
Authors: Ye Chao , Jiang Yi-Di , An Xin , Yang Li , Shang Feng , Niu Jinzhi , Wang Jin-Jun
Published: March 2019

The pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum, is an important agricultural pest and an ideal model organism for various studies. Chitin synthase (CHS) catalyses chitin synthesis, a critical structural component of insect exoskeletons. Here, we identified a CHS gene from A. pisum, ApisCHS. The ApisCHS expression profiles showed that ApisCHS was expressed in various developmental stages and in all tested tissues of A. pisum, including the epidermis, embryo, gut and haemolymph. Notably, ApisCHS exhibited peak expression in the middle of each nymphal period and was extremely highly expressed in the epidermis and embryo. RNA interference (RNAi) showed that ~600 ng of dsRNA is an effective dose for gene silencing by injection for dsRNA delivery; moreover, 1200 ng·μL−1 dsRNA induced CHS gene silencing by a plant-mediated feeding approach. A 44.7% mortality rate and a 51.3% moulting rate were observed 72 h after injection of dsApisCHS into fourth-instar nymphs, compared with the levels in the control (injected with dsGFP). Moreover, a longer period was required for nymph development and a 44.2% deformity rate among newborn nymphs was obtained upon ingestion of dsApisCHS. These results suggest that ApisCHS plays a critical role in nymphal growth and embryonic development in pea aphids, and is a potential target for RNAi-based aphid pest control.
One-step loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for the rapid and sensitive detection of Fusarium fujikuroi in bakanae disease through NRPS31, an important gene in the gibberellic acid bio-synthesis
Authors: Zhang S. Y. , Dai D. J. , Wang H. D. , Zhang C. Q.
Published: March 2019

Rice bakanae disease caused by Fusarium fujikuroi is one of the most famous seed borne diseases. If infected seeds are used, this disease will occur with serious impacts. Thus, a simple, reliable, specific and sensitive method for surveillance is urgently needed to screen infected seeds and seedlings at early developmental stages. In this study, a rapid and efficient loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method was developed to detect F. fujikuroi in contaminated rice seeds and seedlings for diagnosis of bakanae disease. NRPS31 gene plays an important role in the gibberellic acid (GA) bio-synthesis of F. fujikuroi, and is not present in any other sequenced fungal genome, and thus was adopted as the target for LAMP primer design. The LAMP assay enables the fast detection of as little as 1 fg of pure genomic F. fujikuroi DNA within 60 minutes. Further tests indicated that the LAMP assay was more sensitive and faster than the traditional isolation method for F. fujikuroi detection in rice seeds and seedlings. Our results show that this LAMP assay is a useful and convenient tool for detecting F. fujikuroi, and it can be applied widely in seed quarantine of bakanae disease, providing valid data for disease prevention.
Methodological refinement of Aldara-induced psoriasiform dermatitis model in mice
Authors: Horváth Szabina , Komlódi Rita , Perkecz Anikó , Pintér Erika , Gyulai Rolland , Kemény Ágnes
Published: March 2019

Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced skin inflammation is currently the most widely accepted psoriasis animal model, however, it features several limitations. We have modified the IMQ-model to minimize its systemic effects towards effectively maintaining the characteristic skin reactions. The original protocol (OP) uses 62.5 mg Aldara cream (or vaseline) on the shaved back skin of mice for 4 days. In contrast, in our modified protocol (MP) 25 mg Aldara and vaseline are applied simultaneously in separate Finn chambers over the dorsal skin of mice. In both the OP and MP groups, histology showed unequivocal hallmarks of psoriasiform dermatitis. Additionally, skin scaling and blood perfusion values were similar. While Aldara elicited significantly increased skin thickness in the MP group, significant weight loss, spleen enlargement, increased inflammatory cytokine levels in plasma, and treatment related death were only observed in the OP group. Our new method reproduces psoriatic skin alterations highlighting considerably reduced systemic inflammatory reactions. Possessing psoriasiform and control skin areas on the same mouse also reduces inter-individual differences. Additionally, the new method permits prolonged IMQ treatment studies to mimic the chronic nature of psoriasis. Finally, our experimental approach may also be used in other mouse models, to prevent the undesired systemic effects of topically applied drugs.
A colorimetric strategy based on dynamic chemistry for direct detection of Trypanosomatid species
Authors: Tabraue-Chávez Mavys , Luque-González María Angélica , Marín-Romero Antonio , Sánchez-Martín Rosario María , Escobedo-Araque Pablo , Pernagallo Salvatore , Díaz-Mochón Juan José
Published: March 2019

Leishmaniasis and Chagas disease are endemic in many countries, and re-emerging in the developed countries. A rapid and accurate diagnosis is important for early treatment for reducing the duration of infection as well as for preventing further potential health complications. In this work, we have developed a novel colorimetric molecular assay that integrates nucleic acid analysis by dynamic chemistry (ChemNAT) with reverse dot-blot hybridization in an array format for a rapid and easy discrimination of Leishmania major and Trypanosoma cruzi. The assay consists of a singleplex PCR step that amplifies a highly homologous DNA sequence which encodes for the RNA component of the large ribosome subunit. The amplicons of the two different parasites differ between them by single nucleotide variations, known as “Single Nucleotide Fingerprint” (SNF) markers. The SNF markers can be easily identified by naked eye using a novel micro Spin-Tube device "Spin-Tube", as each of them creates a specific spot pattern. Moreover, the direct use of ribosomal RNA without requiring the PCR pre-amplification step is also feasible, further increasing the simplicity of the assay. The molecular assay delivers sensitivity capable of identifying up to 8.7 copies per µL with single mismatch specificity. The Spin-Tube thus represents an innovative solution providing benefits in terms of time, cost, and simplicity, all of which are crucial for the diagnosis of infectious disease in developing countries.
Extensive elemental mapping unlocks Mg/Ca ratios as climate proxy in seasonal records of Mediterranean limpets
Authors: Hausmann N. , Prendergast A. L. , Lemonis A. , Zech J. , Roberts P. , Siozos P. , Anglos D.
Published: March 2019

Elemental analysis of biogeochemical archives is an established technique used to study climate in a range of applications, including ocean circulation, glacial/interglacial climates, and anthropogenic climate change. Data from mollusc archives are especially important because of their global abundance and sub-annual resolution. Despite this potential, they are underrepresented among palaeoclimate studies, due to enigmatic physiological influences skewing the elemental record. Understanding the patterns behind these influences will improve data interpretation and lead to the development of new climate proxies. Here, we show for the first time that extensive spatial mapping of multiple mollusc specimens using Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) across a wider region can resolve enigmatic patterns within the elemental record caused by physiological influences. 2D elemental (Mg/Ca) maps of whole limpet shells (Patella caerulea) from across the Mediterranean revealed patterns of variability within individual mollusc records as well as within isochronous parts of specimens. By registering and quantifying these patterns, we established previously uninterpretable correlations with temperature (R2 > 0.8, p < 0.01). This outcome redefines the possibilities of accessing sub-annual climate proxies and presents the means to assess annual temperature ranges using oxygen isotope analysis requiring only 2 samples per shell.