bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A dog oviduct-on-a-chip model of serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma
Authors: de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz Marcia , Nagashima Jennifer Beth , Venzac Bastien , Le Gac Séverine , Songsasen Nucharin
Published: January 2020

Ovarian cancer is the fifth cause of cancer-related mortality in women, with an expected 5-year survival rate of only 47%. High-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), an epithelial cancer phenotype, is the most common malignant ovarian cancer. It is known that the precursors of HGSC originate from secretory epithelial cells within the Fallopian tube, which first develops as serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC). Here, we used gene editing by CRISPR-Cas9 to knock out the oncogene p53 in dog oviductal epithelia cultured in a dynamic microfluidic chip to create an in vitro model that recapitulated human STIC. Similar to human STIC, the gene-edited oviduct-on-a-chip, exhibited loss of cell polarization and had reduced ciliation, increased cell atypia and proliferation, with multilayered epithelium, increased Ki67, PAX8 and Myc and decreased PTEN and RB1 mRNA expression. This study provides a biomimetic in vitro model to study STIC progression and to identify potential biomarkers for early detection of HGSC.
Compositional and structural analysis of Fukushima-derived particulates using high-resolution x-ray imaging and synchrotron characterisation techniques
Authors: Martin Peter G. , Jones Christopher P. , Cipiccia Silvia , Batey Darren J. , Hallam Keith R. , Satou Yukihiko , Griffiths Ian , Rau Christoph , Richards David A. , Sueki Keisuke , Ishii Tatsuya , Scott Thomas B.
Published: January 2020

Both the three-dimensional internal structure and elemental distribution of near-field radioactive fallout particulate material released during the March 2011 accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant is analysed using combined high-resolution laboratory and synchrotron radiation x-ray techniques. Results from this study allow for the proposition of the likely formation mechanism of the particles, as well as the potential risks associated with their existence in the environment, and the likely implications for future planned reactor decommissioning. A suite of particles is analyzed from a locality 2 km from the north-western perimeter of the site – north of the primary contaminant plume in an area formerly attributed to being contaminated by fallout from reactor Unit 1. The particles are shown to exhibit significant structural similarities; being amorphous with a textured exterior, and containing inclusions of contrasting compositions, as well as an extensive internal void volume – bimodal in its size distribution. A heterogeneous distribution of the various elemental constituents is observed inside a representative particle, which also exhibited a Fukushima-derived radiocesium (134Cs, 135Cs and 137Cs) signature with negligible natural Cs. We consider the structure and composition of the particle to suggest it formed from materials associated with the reactor Unit 1 building explosion, with debris fragments embedded into the particles surface. Such a high void ratio, comparable to geological pumice, suggests such material formed during a rapid depressurisation and is potentially susceptible to fragmentation through attrition.
Symbiosis of soybean with nitrogen fixing bacteria affected by root lesion nematodes in a density-dependent manner
Authors: Elhady Ahmed , Hallmann Johannes , Heuer Holger
Published: January 2020

Early maturing varieties of soybean have a high yield potential in Europe, where the main biotic threat to soybean cultivation are root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.). Nitrogen fixation in root nodules by highly efficient inoculants of Bradyrhizobium japonicum is an incentive to grow soybean in low-input rotation systems. We investigated density-dependent effects of Pratylenchus penetrans on nitrogen fixation by co-inoculated B. japonicum. Less than 130 inoculated nematodes affected the number and weight of nodules, the density of viable bacteroids in nodules, and nitrogen fixation measured as concentration of ureides in leaves. With more inoculated nematodes, the percentage that invaded the roots increased, and adverse effects on the symbiosis accelerated, leading to non-functional nodules at 4,000 and more nematodes. When P. penetrans invaded roots that had fully established nodules, growth of nodules, density of bacteroids, and nitrogen fixation were affected but not the number of nodules. In contrast, nodulation of already infested roots resulted in a high number of small nodules with decreased densities of bacteroids and nitrogen fixation. P. penetrans invaded and damaged the nodules locally, but they also significantly affected the nodule symbiosis by a plant-mediated mechanism, as shown in an experiment with split-root systems.
Invasive marine species discovered on non–native kelp rafts in the warmest Antarctic island
Authors: Avila Conxita , Angulo-Preckler Carlos , Martín-Martín Rafael P. , Figuerola Blanca , Griffiths Huw James , Waller Catherine Louise
Published: January 2020

Antarctic shallow coastal marine communities were long thought to be isolated from their nearest neighbours by hundreds of kilometres of deep ocean and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. The discovery of non–native kelp washed up on Antarctic beaches led us to question the permeability of these barriers to species dispersal. According to the literature, over 70 million kelp rafts are afloat in the Southern Ocean at any one time. These living, floating islands can play host to a range of passenger species from both their original coastal location and those picked in the open ocean. Driven by winds, currents and storms towards the coast of the continent, these rafts are often cited as theoretical vectors for the introduction of new species into Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands. We found non-native kelps, with a wide range of “hitchhiking” passenger organisms, on an Antarctic beach inside the flooded caldera of an active volcanic island. This is the first evidence of non-native species reaching the Antarctic continent alive on kelp rafts. One passenger species, the bryozoan Membranipora membranacea, is found to be an invasive and ecologically harmful species in some cold-water regions, and this is its first record from Antarctica. The caldera of Deception Island provides considerably milder conditions than the frigid surrounding waters and it could be an ideal location for newly introduced species to become established. These findings may help to explain many of the biogeographic patterns and connections we currently see in the Southern Ocean. However, with the impacts of climate change in the region we may see an increase in the range and number of organisms capable of surviving both the long journey and becoming successfully established.
AfLFY, a LEAFY homolog in Argyranthemum frutescens, controls flowering time and leaf development
Authors: Hu Jing , Jin Qi , Ma Yueping
Published: January 2020

Flowering is important for plant propagation and survival, and it is also closely related to human life. Identifying the molecular mechanisms underlying flower development is essential for plant improvement and breeding. Flower development is a complex physiological process that is regulated by multiple genes. LFY genes play important roles in the floral meristem transition and act as crucial integrators in regulating the floral gene network. Argyranthemum frutescens is an ornamental species cultivated for floral displays, yet little is known about molecular mechanisms driving its flower development. In this study, the LEAFY gene homologue, AfLFY, was identified and cloned from A. frutescens, and its role and expression patterns were characterized. Two distinct copies of AfLFY were found in the A. frutescens genome and both sequences contained a 1248 bp open reading frame that encoded 415 amino acids. The putative protein sequences have a typical LFY family domain. In addition, AfLFY was expressed at the highest levels in young leaves of the vegetative stage and in the shoot apical bud meristem of the reproductive stage. Phylogenetic analysis showed that AfLFY was most closely related to DFL from Chrysanthemum lavandulifolium. Subcellular localization studies revealed that AfLFY localized to the nucleus. Heterologous expression of AfLFY in transgenic tobacco plants shortened its period of vegetative growth, converted the lateral meristems into terminal flowers and promoted precocious flowering. In addition, transgenic plants exhibited obvious morphological changes in leaf shape. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that the expression levels genes related to flowering, FT, SOC1, and AP1 were significantly upregulated in AfLFY transgenic plants. Our findings suggested that the AfLFY gene plays a vital role in promoting flowering and leaf development in A. frutescens. These results laid a foundation for us to understand the mechanism of AfLFY in regulation flowering, and the results will be helpful in improving A. frutescens through molecular breeding.
Grey mould control by oxalate degradation using non-antifungal Pseudomonas abietaniphila strain ODB36
Authors: Lee Yeyeong , Choi Okhee , Kang Byeongsam , Bae Juyoung , Kim Seunghoe , Kim Jinwoo
Published: January 2020

Grey mould is an important necrotrophic fungal pathogen that causes huge economic losses in agriculture. Many types of bacteria are used for biological control of grey mould via competition for space or nutrients and/or the production of antifungal metabolites. Oxalate is a key component of virulent necrotic fungal pathogens. In this study, we isolated non-antifungal oxalate-degrading bacteria (ODB) from the surfaces of oxalate-rich spinach and strawberries to investigate their ability to control necrotic fungal pathogens such as grey mould. A total of 36 bacteria grown on oxalate minimal (OM) agar plates were tested for oxalate-degrading activity. Five isolates exhibiting the highest oxalate degradation activity were subjected to molecular identification using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Two isolates exhibiting non-antifungal activity were subjected to disease suppression assays usingArabidopsis–Botrytissystems. The isolatePseudomonas abietaniphilaODB36, which exhibited significant plant protective ability, was finally selected for further investigation. Based on whole-genome information, thepseudomonadoxalatedegrading (podA) gene, which encodes formyl-CoA transferase, was analysed. ThepodA−mutant did not inhibitBotrytisinfection and oxalate toxicity; the defects were recovered bypodAcomplementation. Purified PodA–His converted oxalate to formate and eliminated oxalate toxicity. These results indicate thatP. abietaniphilaODB36 and PodA enzyme are associated with various aspects of grey mould disease inhibitory effects.
Evaluation of a micro/nanofluidic chip platform for diagnosis of central nervous system infections: a multi-center prospective study
Authors: Zheng Guanghui , Zhang Yan , Zhang Lina , Qian Lingye , Cai Yumeng , Lv Hong , Kang Xixiong , Guo Dawen , Wang Xiaoming , Huang Jing , Gao Zhixian , Guan Xiuru , Zhang Guojun
Published: January 2020

Central nervous system infection (CNSI) is a significant type of infection that plagues the fields of neurology and neurosurgical science. Prompt and accurate diagnosis of CNSI is a major challenge in clinical and laboratory assessments; however, developing new methods may help improve diagnostic protocols. This study evaluated the second-generation micro/nanofluidic chip platform (MNCP-II), which overcomes the difficulties of diagnosing bacterial and fungal infections in the CNS. The MNCP-II is simple to operate, and can identify 44 genus or species targets and 35 genetic resistance determinants in 50 minutes. To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the second-generation micro/nanofluidic chip platform for CNSI in a multicenter study. The limit of detection (LOD) using the second-generation micro/nanofluidic chip platform was first determined using six different microbial standards. A total of 180 bacterium/fungi-containing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures and 26 CSF samples collected from CNSI patients with negative microbial cultures were evaluated using the MNCP-II platform for the identification of microorganism and determinants of genetic resistance. The results were compared to those obtained with conventional identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods. The LOD of the various microbes tested with the MNCP-II was found to be in the range of 250–500 copies of DNA. For the 180 CSF microbe-positive cultures, the concordance rate between the platform and the conventional identification method was 90.00%; eight species attained 100% consistency. In the detection of 9 kinds of antibiotic resistance genes, including carbapenemases, ESBLs, aminoglycoside, vancomycin-related genes, and mecA, concordance rates with the conventional antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods exceeded 80.00%. For carbapenemases and ESBLs-related genes, both the sensitivity and positive predictive values of the platform tests were high (>90.0%) and could fully meet the requirements of clinical diagnosis. MNCP-II is a very effective molecular detection platform that can assist in the diagnosis of CNSI and can significantly improve diagnostic efficiency.
Author Correction: Widespread distribution of supraglacial lakes around the margin of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet
Authors: Stokes Chris R. , Sanderson Jack E. , Miles Bertie W. J. , Jamieson Stewart S. R. , Leeson Amber A.
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The National Institutes of Health funding for clinical research applying machine learning techniques in 2017
Authors: Annapureddy Amarnath R. , Angraal Suveen , Caraballo Cesar , Grimshaw Alyssa , Huang Chenxi , Mortazavi Bobak J. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: January 2020

Machine learning (ML) techniques have become ubiquitous and indispensable for solving intricate problems in most disciplines. To determine the extent of funding for clinical research projects applying ML techniques by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2017, we searched the NIH Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools Expenditures and Results (RePORTER) system using relevant keywords. We identified 535 projects, which together received a total of $264 million, accounting for 2% of the NIH extramural budget for clinical research.
Trypanosomatid parasite dynamically changes the transcriptome during infection and modifies honey bee physiology
Authors: Liu Qiushi , Lei Jing , Darby Alistair C. , Kadowaki Tatsuhiko
Published: January 2020

It is still not understood how honey bee parasite changes the gene expression to adapt to the host environment and how the host simultaneously responds to the parasite infection by modifying its own gene expression. To address this question, we studied a trypanosomatid, Lotmaria passim, which can be cultured in medium and inhabit the honey bee hindgut. We found that L. passim decreases mRNAs associated with protein translation, glycolysis, detoxification of radical oxygen species, and kinetoplast respiratory chain to adapt to the anaerobic and nutritionally poor honey bee hindgut during the infection. After the long term infection, the host appears to be in poor nutritional status, indicated by the increase and decrease of take-out and vitellogenin mRNAs, respectively. Simultaneous gene expression profiling of L. passim and honey bee during infection by dual RNA-seq provided insight into how both parasite and host modify their gene expressions.
Degradation of intracellular TGF-β1 by PROTACs efficiently reverses M2 macrophage induced malignant pathological events
Authors: Feng Yanqiao , Su Hui , Li Yunzhi , Luo Chunxiang , Xu Huiying , Wang Youqiao , Sun Haixia , Wan Guohui , Zhou Binhua , Bu Xianzhang
Published: January 2020

The first proteolysis targeting chimeras for the intracellular elimination of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), which contributes to various diseases, is described.
Quantitative multiplexed elemental (C, H, N and S) detection in complex mixtures using gas chromatography
Authors: Freije-Carrelo Laura , García-Bellido Javier , Alonso Sobrado Laura , Moldovan Mariella , Bouyssiere Brice , Giusti Pierre , Encinar Jorge Ruiz
Published: January 2020

Capabilities of well-established GC detectors (FID, NCD, SCD, MSD) are integrated in one single instrumental set-up able to provide simultaneous universal and H-, N- and S-element selective detection, equimolar response and structural elucidation.
Two-dimensional hydrogen hydrates: structure and stability
Authors: Zhong Hong , Li Liwen , Ma Rui , Zhong Jie , Yan Youguo , Li Shuguang , Zhang Jun , Liu Jinxiang
Published: January 2020

Gap widths and basic structures of two-dimensional hydrogen hydrates have an effect on stability.
Influence of climate and biological variables on temporal trends of persistent organic pollutants in Arctic char and ringed seals from Greenland
Authors: Rigét Frank , Vorkamp Katrin , Eulaers Igor , Dietz Rune
Published: January 2020

Climate change may affect temporal trends of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Arctic wildlife.
Bimetallic alloy and semiconductor support synergistic interaction effects for superior electrochemical catalysis
Authors: Zheng Yunshan , Zhai Yan , Tu Maomao , Huang Xinhua , Shu Mingcong , Guo Xiaoyu , Ying Ye , Wu Yiping , Wen Ying , Yang Haifeng
Published: January 2020

The design and fabrication of economically viable anode catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) have been challenging issues in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) over the decades.
Effective removal of inorganic and organic heavy metal pollutants with poly(amino acid)-based micromotors
Authors: Hou Ting , Yu Shanshan , Zhou Minfeng , Wu Min , Liu Jie , Zheng Xiaoli , Li Jinxing , Wang Joseph , Wang Xiaolei
Published: January 2020

Surface-tunable poly(amino acid)-based micromotors are reported to remove heavy metals (i.e., Cd2+, Pb2+ and CH3ClHg) quickly and efficiently. The outer PAA layers can be adjusted by changing the type and proportion of amino acids according to real requirements.
Hybrid gold nanoparticle–quantum dot self-assembled nanostructures driven by complementary artificial proteins
Authors: Fernandez Maxence , Urvoas Agathe , Even-Hernandez Pascale , Burel Agnès , Mériadec Cristelle , Artzner Franck , Bouceba Tahar , Minard Philippe , Dujardin Erik , Marchi Valérie
Published: January 2020

Hybrid nanostructures are constructed by the direct coupling of fluorescent quantum dots and plasmonic gold nanoparticles.
Synthesis and properties of poly(benzoxazole imide)s derived from two isomeric diamines containing a benzoxazole moiety
Authors: Jiao Yang , Chen Guofei , Mushtaq Nafeesa , Zhou Haijun , Chen Xiaoqi , Li Yantao , Fang Xingzhong
Published: January 2020

The isomeric effect on the properties of novel series of poly(benzoxazole imide)s PI-a and PI-b derived from two isomeric diamines 2a and 2b is investigated.
A flexible biomimetic superhydrophobic and superoleophilic 3D macroporous polymer-based robust network for the efficient separation of oil-contaminated water
Authors: Saleh Tawfik A. , Baig Nadeem , Alghunaimi Fahd I. , Aljuryyed Norah W.
Published: January 2020

Superhydrophobic polyurethane for oil and water separation.
Gram-scale synthesis of ultra-fine Cu2O for highly efficient ozone decomposition
Authors: Gong Shuyan , Wang Anqi , Zhang Jilai , Guan Jian , Han Ning , Chen Yunfa
Published: January 2020

Dozens of grams of ultra-fine Cu2O with efficient ozone decomposition was prepared by a facile liquid phase reduction method at room temperature.
Optimisation of Cu+ impregnation of MOF-74 to improve CO/N2 and CO/CO2 separations
Authors: Evans Arwyn , Cummings Matthew , Decarolis Donato , Gianolio Diego , Shahid Salman , Law Gareth , Attfield Martin , Law David , Petit Camille
Published: January 2020

We present an in situ study of CO adsorption on Cu impregnated MOF-74 and study the competitive adsorption of CO vs. CO2 and N2.
Nano ferrites (AFe2O4, A = Zn, Co, Mn, Cu) as efficient catalysts for catalytic ozonation of toluene
Authors: Jiang Hongbin , Xu Xiaochen , Zhang Rao , Zhang Yun , Chen Jie , Yang Fenglin
Published: January 2020

Nano ferrites (AFe2O4, A = Zn, Co, Mn, Cu) were supported on the surface of γ-Al2O3 by hydrothermal synthesis to prepare a series of novel catalysts (AFe2O4/γ-Al2O3) for catalytic ozonation of high concentration toluene at ambient temperature.
Radical cascade synthesis of azoles via tandem hydrogen atom transfer
Authors: Chen Andrew D. , Herbort James H. , Wappes Ethan A. , Nakafuku Kohki M. , Mustafa Darsheed N. , Nagib David A.
Published: January 2020

A radical cascade enables rapid, modular access to five-membered heteroarenes, including oxazoles and imidazoles, through a regio- and chemo-selective β C–H bis-functionalization.
Recent advancements in heterostructured interface engineering for hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalysis
Authors: Wang Hongxia , Fu Weiwei , Yang Xiaohui , Huang Zhengyong , Li Jian , Zhang Huijuan , Wang Yu
Published: January 2020

Synthesis methods and catalytic properties of heterostructure catalysts for HER.
Porous V2O5 yolk–shell microspheres for zinc ion battery cathodes: activation responsible for enhanced capacity and rate performance
Authors: Li Rui , Zhang Huamin , Zheng Qiong , Li Xianfeng
Published: January 2020

Illustration of a V2O5-YS microsphere with H+/Zn2+ co-insertion.
Synergistic effect between atomically dispersed Fe and Co metal sites for enhanced oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Chen Lulu , Zhang Yelong , Dong Lile , Yang Wenxiu , Liu Xiangjian , Long Ling , Liu Changyu , Dong Shaojun , Jia Jianbo
Published: January 2020

Atomically dispersed Fe and Co on N-doped carbon were prepared as ORR and Zn–air battery catalysts, and the synergetic effect between Fe–N4 and Co–N4 was demonstrated by electrochemical results and density functional theory calculations.
Suppression of surface defects to achieve hysteresis-free inverted perovskite solar cells via quantum dot passivation
Authors: Hanmandlu Chintam , Swamy Satyanarayana , Singh Anupriya , Hsin-An Chen  , Liu Chi-Ching , Lai Chao-Sung , Mohapatra Anisha , Pao Chun-Wei , Chen Peilin , Chu Chih-Wei
Published: January 2020

We fabricated the defect passivation of perovskite solar cells using CdSe/ZnS quantum dots. The efficient defect passivation of reduces the trap charge density and elongates the charge carrier life time.
Achieving an unprecedented hydrogen evolution rate by solvent-exfoliated CPP-based photocatalysts
Authors: Cheng Jing-Zhao , Liu Li-Lin , Liao Guangfu , Shen Zhao-Qi , Tan Zhi-Rong , Xing Yu-Qin , Li Xiao-Xiao , Yang Kai , Chen Long , Liu Shi-Yong
Published: January 2020

Solvent-exfoliated CPP-based photocatalysts have been innovatively used for photocatalytic hydrogen production with an unprecedented HER of up to 303.7 mmol h−1 g−1.
Combinatorial screening yields discovery of 29 metal oxide photoanodes for solar fuel generation
Authors: Zhou Lan , Shinde Aniketa , Guevarra Dan , Richter Matthias H. , Stein Helge S. , Wang Yu , Newhouse Paul F. , Persson Kristin A. , Gregoire John M.
Published: January 2020

A slew of discoveries from high throughput experiments reveal that metal oxide photoanodes aren't as rare as they once seemed, although photoactivity below 2 eV remains a challenge.
Is Cs2TiBr6 a promising Pb-free perovskite for solar energy applications?
Authors: Euvrard Julie , Wang Xiaoming , Li Tianyang , Yan Yanfa , Mitzi David B.
Published: January 2020

We consider the Pb-free perovskite Cs2TiBr6 and provide complementary experimental and theoretical results suggesting that Cs2TiBr6 in its pristine form might not be suitable for solar energy applications.
Comparative release kinetics of small drugs (ibuprofen and acetaminophen) from multifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Lim Eun-Bi , Vy Tran Anh , Lee Sang-Wha
Published: January 2020

Multifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) can confer dynamically varied release kinetics depending on the intermolecular interactions between model drugs and functional decorations on the MSNs.
Mussel-inspired hybrid network hydrogel for continuous adhesion in water
Authors: Fu Yifu , Ren Pengfei , Wang Faming , Liang Min , Hu Wanjun , Zhou Naizhen , Lu Zuhong , Zhang Tianzhu
Published: January 2020

The mussel-inspired catechol-based strategy has been widely used in the development of adhesives.
A cyanine-based polymeric nanoplatform with microenvironment-driven cascaded responsiveness for imaging-guided chemo-photothermal combination anticancer therapy
Authors: Yang Xia , An Jinxia , Luo Zhong , Yang Rui , Yan Shuzhen , Liu De-E , Fu Hao , Gao Hui
Published: January 2020

Finding out how to overcome multistage biological barriers for nanocarriers in cancer therapy to obtain highly precise drug delivery is still a challenge.
A flexible bifunctional sensor based on porous copper nanowire@IonGel composite films for high-resolution stress/deformation detection
Authors: Zhang Shaohui , Wang Chao , Ding Liuyi , Zhang Long , Chen Jiafan , Huang Hui , Jiang Dapeng , Chen Ziyang , Pan Gebo
Published: January 2020

A new bifunctional sensor based on excellent conductive and biocompatible porous copper nanowire (CuNW)/IonGel (PCI) composite films introducing a polystyrene (PS) microsphere template is developed.
Super-coercive electric field hysteresis in ferroelectric plastic crystal tetramethylammonium bromotrichloroferrate(iii)
Authors: Walker Julian , Miranti Rany , Skjærvø Susanne Linn , Rojac Tadej , Grande Tor , Einarsrud Mari-Ann
Published: January 2020

Ionic plastic crystals are part of an emerging class of hybrid organic–inorganic ferroelectrics. Their super-coercive electric field hysteresis bares the signatures of ferroelectric switching, including interesting contributions from defects.
Retraction: Microelectrochemical cell arrays for whole-cell currents recording through ion channel proteins based on trans-electroporation approach
Authors: Zheng Tianyang , Baaken Gerhard , Behrends Jan C. , Rühe Jürgen
Published: January 2020

Retraction of ‘Microelectrochemical cell arrays for whole-cell currents recording through ion channel proteins based on trans-electroporation approach’ by Tianyang Zheng et al., Analyst, 2020, 145, 197–205.
Open-mouth N-doped carbon nanoboxes embedded with mixed metal phosphide nanoparticles as high-efficiency catalysts for electrolytic water splitting
Authors: Zhu Yuan-Xin , Zhang Lei , Zhu Guo-Gang , Zhang Xin , Lu Shih-Yuan
Published: January 2020

Open-mouth N-doped carbon nanoboxes with embedded mixed metal phosphide nanoparticles, E-(Fe–Ni)P@CC/(Co–Ni)P@CC, were designed and fabricated as highly efficient and durable catalysts for electrolytic water splitting.
Dead as a Dodo?
Authors: Carter Wayne
Published: January 2020

Advances in DNA recovery and storage as well as tissue cryobanking have led to the potential for restoring endangered species and the return of extinct species. The de-extinction media storm continues to grow and includes the ‘imminent’ return of the Woolly Mammoth!
Formation channels of slowly rotating early-type galaxies
Authors: Krajnović Davor , Ural Ugur , Kuntschner Harald , Goudfrooij Paul , Wolfe Michael , Cappellari Michele , Davies Roger , de Zeeuw Tim P. , Duc Pierre-Alain , Emsellem Eric , Karick Arna , McDermid Richard M. , Mei Simona , Naab Thorsten
Published: January 2020

We study the evidence for a diversity of formation processes in early-type galaxies by presenting the first complete volume-limited sample of slow rotators with both integral-field kinematics from the ATLAS3D Project and high spatial resolution photometry from the Hubble Space Telescope. Analysing the nuclear surface brightness profiles of 12 newly imaged slow rotators, we classify their light profiles as core-less, and place an upper limit to the core size of about 10 pc. Considering the full magnitude and volume-limited ATLAS3D sample, we correlate the presence or lack of cores with stellar kinematics, including the proxy for the stellar angular momentum (λRe) and the velocity dispersion within one half-light radius (σe), stellar mass, stellar age, α-element abundance, and age and metallicity gradients. More than half of the slow rotators have core-less light profiles, and they are all less massive than 1011 M⊙. Core-less slow rotators show evidence for counter-rotating flattened structures, have steeper metallicity gradients, and a larger dispersion of gradient values (Δ[Z/H]¯ = −0.42 ± 0.18) than core slow rotators (Δ[Z/H]¯ = −0.23 ± 0.07). Our results suggest that core and core-less slow rotators have different assembly processes, where the former, as previously discussed, are the relics of massive dissipation-less merging in the presence of central supermassive black holes. Formation processes of core-less slow rotators are consistent with accretion of counter-rotating gas or gas-rich mergers of special orbital configurations, which lower the final net angular momentum of stars, but support star formation. We also highlight core fast rotators as galaxies that share properties of core slow rotators (i.e. cores, ages, σe, and population gradients) and core-less slow rotators (i.e. kinematics, λRe, mass, and larger spread in population gradients). Formation processes similar to those for core-less slow rotators can be invoked to explain the assembly of core fast rotators, with the distinction that these processes form or preserve cores.
Energy absorption assessment of conical composite structures subjected to quasi-static loading through optimization based method
Authors: Nia Amin Bassiri , Nejad Ali Farokhi , Xin Li , Ayob Amran , Yahya Mohd Yazid
Published: January 2020

The geometry of a composite frusta-conical structure with 20° apex angle was optimized using topology optimization method. The ATOM topology solver was used to perform optimization process. The structure was subjected to an axial compressive quasi-static loading where the criterion of optimization is the largest absorption of energy per unit volume. The optimization resulted in concave shell geometry with a volume reduction of 15%. To compare the effect of geometry on energy absorption capability, two types of GFRP specimen with different thickness were fabricated using filament winding and hand lay-up methods. The axial crushing test results were validated with numerical analysis using the commercial finite element software ABAQUS. The collapse mode and failure mechanism were investigated and identified. The presented methodology helps to find the better geometry instead of testing different geometries.
Ensemble model output statistics as a probabilistic site-adaptation tool for satellite-derived and reanalysis solar irradiance
Authors: Yang Dazhi
Published: January 2020

Suppose a location is within the spatial coverage of m gridded solar irradiance products, there is very little reason to rely on a single product, even if that product is known to be superior to its peers. In this paper, I discuss the ensemble performance of gridded irradiance estimates. First, I show the optimal convex combination of gridded irradiance estimates from different products almost always outperforms the best individual estimate under squared loss. Then, I extend the problem to the probability space and demonstrate how to construct predictive distributions for gridded irradiance estimates. Since the sample ensemble variances are often over- or under-dispersed, depending on the location, an ensemble model output statistics (EMOS) technique is used to correct such behaviors. The EMOS technique aims at minimizing the ignorance score, which is equivalent to maximizing the log-likelihood function of the underlying statistical model. In the language of solar engineers, EMOS is a probabilistic site-adaptation technique. At this point, this is the first work that (1) performs probabilistic site adaptation, (2) uses ensemble approaches for site adaptation, and (3) demonstrates formal probabilistic verification on site-adaptation problems.
Use of Vis–NIR reflectance data and regression models to estimate physiological and productivity traits in lucerne (Medicago sativa)
Authors: Garriga M. , Ovalle C. , Espinoza S. , Lobos G. A. , del Pozo A.
Published: January 2020

Lucerne (alfalfa, Medicago sativa L.) is grown extensively worldwide owing to its high forage biomass production and nutritional value. Although this crop is characterised as being tolerant to drought, its production and persistence are affected by water stress. Selection of genotypes of high yield potential and persistence after a long period of drought is a major objective for lucerne-breeding programmes in Mediterranean environments. This selection could be enhanced and accelerated by the use of physiological and productivity traits and their estimation through remote-sensing methods. A set of nine cultivars of lucerne from Australia and the USA were assessed in four locations in Mediterranean central-south Chile. Several physiological and productivity traits were evaluated: forage yield (FY), stomatal conductance (gs), water potential (WP), leaf area index (LAI), nitrogen (N) content, and isotope composition (δ13C and δ18O) of the dry matter. Spectral-reflectance data were used to estimate the traits through spectral-reflectance indices (SRIs) and multivariate regression methods. For the SRI-based estimations, the R2 values for each assessment were <0.65. However, traits such as LAI, WP, gs, and N content showed higher R2 values when data from the different assessments were combined. Regression-based estimation showed prediction power similar to or higher than the SRI-based approaches. The highest R2 value was for δ13C (0.78), but for most traits the combination of data from different assessments led to higher trait estimation, with respective R2 values for LAI, FY, WP and gs of 0.67, 0.71, 0.63 and 0.85. Among regression methods, the best estimation was achieved by using support vector machine regression. The use of spectral-reflectance data collected at field level and multivariate regression models has great potential to estimate physiological and productivity traits in lucerne under water deficit and could be useful in lucerne-breeding programmes.
Magnetic resonance imaging of glycogen using its magnetic coupling with water
Authors: Zhou Yang , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Xu Xiang , Xu Jiadi , Li Yuguo , Chen Lin , Yadav Nirbhay N.
Published: January 2020

Glycogen plays a central role in glucose homeostasis and is abundant in several types of tissue. We report an MRI method for imaging glycogen noninvasively with enhanced detection sensitivity and high specificity, using the magnetic coupling between glycogen and water protons through the nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE). We show in vitro that the glycogen NOE (glycoNOE) signal is correlated linearly with glycogen concentration, while pH and temperature have little effect on its intensity. For validation, we imaged glycoNOE signal changes in mouse liver, both before and after fasting and during glucagon infusion. The glycoNOE signal was reduced by 88 ± 16% (
n
= 5) after 24 h of fasting and by 76 ± 22% (
n
= 5) at 1 h after intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of glucagon, which is known to rapidly deplete hepatic glycogen. The ability to noninvasively image glycogen should allow assessment of diseases in which glucose metabolism or storage is altered, for instance, diabetes, cardiac disease, muscular disorders, cancer, and glycogen storage diseases.
Role of a DEF/Y motif in histone H2A-H2B recognition and nucleosome editing
Authors: Huang Yan , Sun Lu , Pierrakeas Leonidas , Dai Linchang , Pan Lu , Luk Ed , Zhou Zheng
Published: January 2020

The SWR complex edits the histone composition of nucleosomes at promoters to facilitate transcription by replacing the two nucleosomal H2A-H2B (A-B) dimers with H2A.Z-H2B (Z-B) dimers. Swc5, a subunit of SWR, binds to A-B dimers, but its role in the histone replacement reaction was unclear. In this study, we showed that Swc5 uses a tandem DEF/Y motif within an intrinsically disordered region to engage the A-B dimer. A 2.37-Å X-ray crystal structure of the histone binding domain of Swc5 in complex with an A-B dimer showed that consecutive acidic residues and flanking hydrophobic residues of Swc5 form a cap over the histones, excluding histone–DNA interaction. Mutations in Swc5 DEF/Y inhibited the nucleosome editing function of SWR in vitro. Swc5 DEF/Y interacts with histones in vivo, and the extent of this interaction is dependent on the remodeling ATPase of SWR, supporting a model in which Swc5 acts as a wedge to promote A-B dimer eviction. Given that DEF/Y motifs are found in other evolutionary unrelated chromatin regulators, this work provides the molecular basis for a general strategy used repeatedly during eukaryotic evolution to mobilize histones in various genomic functions.
Removing a single neuron in a vertebrate brain forever abolishes an essential behavior
Authors: Hecker Alexander , Schulze Wolfram , Oster Jakob , Richter David O. , Schuster Stefan
Published: January 2020

Significance

The Mauthner cell is the largest neuron known in the vertebrate brain and, in fish, mediates rapid escape behavior. Ablating this neuron has repeatedly failed to eliminate rapid escapes, a survival role of these escapes has not been supported experimentally, and it is unknown which advantage the enormous size and complexity of the cell conveys. By taking care to ensure ablations remove not only the soma but also the giant axon, we find that rapid escapes are lost forever and that this loss directly affects survival in predator–prey assays. The Mauthner cell thus is an example in which a survival-critical function depends on an individual neuron whose axon appears to have unusual capacities to remain functional after severe injury.
Autonomy: the next phase of dialogue between systemic functional linguistics and Legitimation Code Theory
Authors: Maton Karl , Howard Sarah K.
Published: January 2020

Systemic functional linguistics (SFL) has long enjoyed a close and fruitful dialogue with Legitimation Code Theory (LCT). A growing number of scholars enact both theories together in empirical research to explore how knowledge and language relate together to shape practice. This work both generates greater explanatory power in research and encourages conceptual advances in each of the two theories. In this paper we introduce new concepts from a recently renovated dimension of LCT called Autonomy that may spark a new phase of dialogue between the frameworks. We begin by summarising the existing ongoing phases of dialogue between LCT and SFL. We then introduce the concepts of “autonomy codes”, which explore changing relations among different kinds of practices by tracing “autonomy pathways”. The potential of these concepts for empirical research is illustrated through detailed analyses of classroom practice in which schoolteachers attempt to use everyday knowledge as ways of helping students learn History. These analyses suggest that “one-way trips” from one form of knowledge practice into another constrain knowledge-building while “autonomy tours” that engage with, repurpose and connect other knowledge practices support knowledge-building. Finally, we consider how these concepts might raise questions for SFL research and theory and thereby initiate a new phase in its dialogue with LCT.
Toward a linguistically informed, responsive and embedded pedagogy in secondary literacy instruction
Authors: Fang Zhihui
Published: January 2020

Learning in secondary content areas involves at least some interaction with complex disciplinary texts. The engagement requires discipline-specific reading/writing skills that go beyond those students have mastered in the elementary grades. This advanced literacy ability, or disciplinary literacy, is best fostered through a pedagogy that is informed by sound linguistics theory, responsive to student needs, and embedded in meaningful disciplinary experiences. Such a pedagogy, with its focus on how language is used in disciplinary meaning making, has the potential to promote knowledge building and advanced literacy development at the same time.
Simulated folivory increases vertical transmission of fungal endophytes that deter herbivores and alter tolerance to herbivory inPoa autumnalis
Authors: Gundel Pedro E , Sun Prudence , Charlton Nikki D , Young Carolyn A , Miller Tom E X , Rudgers Jennifer A
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

The processes that maintain variation in the prevalence of symbioses within host populations are not well understood. While the fitness benefits of symbiosis have clearly been shown to drive changes in symbiont prevalence, the rate of transmission has been less well studied. Many grasses host symbiotic fungi (Epichloë spp.), which can be transmitted vertically to seeds or horizontally via spores. These symbionts may protect plants against herbivores by producing alkaloids or by increasing tolerance to damage. Therefore, herbivory may be a key ecological factor that alters symbiont prevalence within host populations by affecting either symbiont benefits to host fitness or the symbiont transmission rate. Here, we addressed the following questions: Does symbiont presence modulate plant tolerance to herbivory? Does folivory increase symbiont vertical transmission to seeds or hyphal density in seedlings? Do plants with symbiont horizontal transmission have lower rates of vertical transmission than plants lacking horizontal transmission?

Methods

We studied the grass Poa autumnalis and its symbiotic fungi in the genus Epichloë. We measured plant fitness (survival, growth, reproduction) and symbiont transmission to seeds following simulated folivory in a 3-year common garden experiment and surveyed natural populations that varied in mode of symbiont transmission.

Key Results

Poa autumnalis hosted two Epichloë taxa, an undescribed vertically transmitted Epichloë sp. PauTG-1 and E. typhina subsp. poae with both vertical and horizontal transmission. Simulated folivory reduced plant survival, but endophyte presence increased tolerance to damage and boosted fitness. Folivory increased vertical transmission and hyphal density within seedlings, suggesting induced protection for progeny of damaged plants. Across natural populations, the prevalence of vertical transmission did not correlate with symbiont prevalence or differ with mode of transmission.

Conclusions

Herbivory not only mediated the reproductive fitness benefits of symbiosis, but also promoted symbiosis prevalence by increasing vertical transmission of the fungus to the next generation. Our results reveal a new mechanism by which herbivores could influence the prevalence of microbial symbionts in host populations.
Improvement in Back Pain Following Abdominoplasty: Results of a 10-Year, Single-Surgeon Series
Authors: Soteropulos Carol E , Edinger Kylie M , Leibl Kayla E , Siebert John W
Published: January 2020

Background

Few studies have examined the impact of abdominoplasty on chronic back pain.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to test our hypothesis that patients undergoing abdominoplasty with anterior abdominal wall plication will show significant improvements in back pain and physical function compared with those without plication.

Methods

We utilized Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes to identify patients who underwent abdominoplasty with the senior author over a 10-year period. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the RAND 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) were administered. All patients indicating preoperative back pain were reviewed.

Results

Of 338 patients, 143 surveys (42.3%) were returned; 51 patients (35.7%; n = 28 aesthetic, n = 23 massive weight loss) reported preoperative back pain on the ODI. Paired t tests compared overall and strata-specific changes in ODI and SF-36 pre- and postsurgery. Multivariable linear regression models were fitted to model relations between scores and plication, adjusting for presurgery scores and patient variables. There were significant improvements in overall patient cohort in ODI (–15.14), SF-36 physical function (19.92), and pain (17.42) (P < 0.001), as well as when patients were stratified by plication status. However, outcomes between those with plication and those without were not significantly different.

Conclusions

Abdominoplasty with and without anterior abdominal wall plication significantly improves ODI and SF-36 scores relating to physical function and pain, in both aesthetic and massive weight loss patients. Outcomes did not differ based on plication status. All patients with preoperative back pain showed improvement regardless of operation performed, suggesting that abdominoplasty with or without abdominal wall plication improves chronic back pain in this patient population.

Level of Evidence: 4
Rapid speciation and ecological divergence into North American alpine habitats: the Nippononebria (Coleoptera: Carabidae) species complex
Authors: Weng Yi-Ming , Veire Benton M , Dudko Roman Yu , Medeiros Matthew J , Kavanaugh David H , Schoville Sean D
Published: January 2020

The climate-driven species pump hypothesis has been supported in a number of phylogeographic studies of alpine species. Climate-driven shifts in distribution, coupled with rapid demographic change, have led to strong genetic drift and lineage diversification. Although the species pump has been linked to rapid speciation in a number of studies, few studies have demonstrated that ecological divergence accompanies rapid speciation. Here we examine genetic, morphological and physiological variation in members of the ground beetle taxon Nippononebria, to test three competing hypotheses of evolutionary diversification: isolation and incomplete lineage sorting (no speciation), recent speciation without ecological divergence, or recent speciation with ecological divergence into alpine habitats. Genetic data are consistent with recent divergence, with major lineages forming in the last million years. A species tree analysis, in conjunction with morphological divergence in male reproductive traits, support the formation of three recognized Nippononebria taxa. Furthermore, both morphological and physiological traits demonstrate ecological divergence in alpine lineages, with convergent shifts in body shape and thermal tolerance breadth. This provides strong evidence that the climate-driven species pump can generate ecological novelty, though it is argued that spatial scale may be a key determinant of broader patterns of macroevolution in alpine communities.
Artificial intelligence, tech corporate governance and the public interest regulatory response
Authors: Dignam Alan
Published: January 2020

This article attempts to get to the heart of some of the general misunderstanding of artificial intelligence (AI), its existent dangers and its problematic autocratic governance centred on US and Chinese tech dominance of the area. Having considered the extent of each in turn it proposes a regulatory model to place public rather than private interest at the heart of both technical and governance centred AI regulation.
Blood pressure targets in patients with chronic kidney disease: MDRD and AASK now confirming SPRINT
Authors: Sarafidis Pantelis , Loutradis Charalampos , Ortiz Alberto , Ruilope Luis M
Published: January 2020

Recent American and European hypertension guidelines are not in agreement regarding blood pressure (BP) targets for persons with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Previous analyses from the African American Study on Kidney Disease (AASK) and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) trials suggested that strict BP control confers nephroprotection for patients with proteinuria, but a mortality benefit was not apparent. In contrast, an analysis of the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) subpopulation of CKD patients showed a mortality benefit with the systolic blood pressure (SBP) <120 mmHg versus the SBP <140 target. A recent analysis of the combined MDRD and AASK cohorts supports previous evidence on nephroprotection but also findings from the SPRINT trial on all-cause mortality benefits of intensive versus usual BP control in individuals with CKD.