bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining gray matter structure associated with academic performance in a large sample of Chinese high school students
Authors: Wang Song , Zhou Ming , Chen Taolin , Yang Xun , Chen Guangxiang , Wang Meiyun , Gong Qiyong
Published: April 2017

Achievement in school is crucial for students to be able to pursue successful careers and lead happy lives in the future. Although many psychological attributes have been found to be associated with academic performance, the neural substrates of academic performance remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the relationship between brain structure and academic performance in a large sample of high school students via structural magnetic resonance imaging (S-MRI) using voxel-based morphometry (VBM) approach. The whole-brain regression analyses showed that higher academic performance was related to greater regional gray matter density (rGMD) of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which is considered a neural center at the intersection of cognitive and non-cognitive functions. Furthermore, mediation analyses suggested that general intelligence partially mediated the impact of the left DLPFC density on academic performance. These results persisted even after adjusting for the effect of family socioeconomic status (SES). In short, our findings reveal a potential neuroanatomical marker for academic performance and highlight the role of general intelligence in explaining the relationship between brain structure and academic performance.
Correction: Corrigendum: Effects of Taxol on Regeneration in a Rat Sciatic Nerve Transection Model
Authors: Hsu Shih-Tien , Yao Chun-Hsu , Hsu Yuan-Man , Lin Jia-Horng , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Chen Yueh-Sheng
Published: April 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 42280; published online: 09 February 2017; updated: 10 April 2017 In this Article, Jia-Horng Lin is incorrectly listed as being affiliated with ‘Department of Fiber and Composite Materials, Feng Chia University, Taichung, Taiwan’. The correct affiliations are listed below:
Correction: Corrigendum: Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B targets PITX1/p120RasGAP thus showing therapeutic potential in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Teng Hao-Wei , Hung Man-Hsin , Chen Li-Ju , Chang Mao-Ju , Hsieh Feng-Shu , Tsai Ming-Hsien , Huang Jui-Wen , Lin Chih-Lung , Tseng Hsiang-Wen , Kuo Zong-Keng , Jiang Jeng-Kai , Yang Shung-Haur , Shiau Chung-Wai , Chen Kuen-Feng
Published: April 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 35308; published online: 18 October 2016; updated: 10 April 2017 This Article contains an error in Figure 4F of this Article. The immunoblot for GAPDH is incorrect. The correct Figure 4F appears below as Figure 1.
Correction: Corrigendum: Precision controlled atomic resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy using spiral scan pathways
Authors: Sang Xiahan , Lupini Andrew R. , Ding Jilai , Kalinin Sergei V. , Jesse Stephen , Unocic Raymond R.
Published: April 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 43585; published online: 08 March 2017; updated: 10 April 2017 In this Article, an affiliation has been omitted for Jilai Ding. The correct affiliations are listed below: Center for Nanophase Materials Science, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831,USA.
Structural insights into the production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid by aldehyde dehydrogenase from Azospirillum brasilense
Authors: Son Hyeoncheol Francis , Park Sunghoon , Yoo Tae Hyeon , Jung Gyoo Yeol , Kim Kyung-Jin
Published: April 2017

3-Hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) is an important platform chemical to be converted to acrylic acid and acrylamide. Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), an enzyme that catalyzes the reaction of 3-hydroxypropionaldehyde (3-HPA) to 3-HP, determines 3-HP production rate during the conversion of glycerol to 3-HP. To elucidate molecular mechanism of 3-HP production, we determined the first crystal structure of a 3-HP producing ALDH, α-ketoglutarate-semialdehyde dehydrogenase from Azospirillum basilensis (AbKGSADH), in its apo-form and in complex with NAD+. Although showing an overall structure similar to other ALDHs, the AbKGSADH enzyme had an optimal substrate binding site for accepting 3-HPA as a substrate. Molecular docking simulation of 3-HPA into the AbKGSADH structure revealed that the residues Asn159, Gln160 and Arg163 stabilize the aldehyde- and the hydroxyl-groups of 3-HPA through hydrogen bonds, and several hydrophobic residues, such as Phe156, Val286, Ile288, and Phe450, provide the optimal size and shape for 3-HPA binding. We also compared AbKGSADH with other reported 3-HP producing ALDHs for the crucial amino acid residues for enzyme catalysis and substrate binding, which provides structural implications on how these enzymes utilize 3-HPA as a substrate.
A Short-Snouted, Middle Triassic Phytosaur and its Implications for the Morphological Evolution and Biogeography of Phytosauria
Authors: Stocker Michelle R. , Zhao Li-Jun , Nesbitt Sterling J. , Wu Xiao-Chun , Li Chun
Published: April 2017

Following the end-Permian extinction, terrestrial vertebrate diversity recovered by the Middle Triassic, and that diversity was now dominated by reptiles. However, those reptilian clades, including archosaurs and their closest relatives, are not commonly found until ~30 million years post-extinction in Late Triassic deposits despite time-calibrated phylogenetic analyses predicting an Early Triassic divergence for those clades. One of these groups from the Late Triassic, Phytosauria, is well known from a near-Pangean distribution, and this easily recognized clade bears an elongated rostrum with posteriorly retracted nares and numerous postcranial synapomorphies that are unique compared with all other contemporary reptiles. Here, we recognize the exquisitely preserved, nearly complete skeleton of Diandongosuchus fuyuanensis from the Middle Triassic of China as the oldest and basalmost phytosaur. The Middle Triassic age and lack of the characteristically-elongated rostrum fill a critical morphological and temporal gap in phytosaur evolution, indicating that the characteristic elongated rostrum of phytosaurs appeared subsequent to cranial and postcranial modifications associated with enhanced prey capture, predating that general trend of morphological evolution observed within Crocodyliformes. Additionally, Diandongosuchus supports that the clade was present across Pangea, suggesting early ecosystem exploration for Archosauriformes through nearshore environments and leading to ease of dispersal across the Tethys.
Maxdenominator Reweighted Sparse Representation for Tumor Classification
Authors: Li Weibiao , Liao Bo , Zhu Wen , Chen Min , Peng Li , Wei Xiaohui , Gu Changlong , Li Keqin
Published: April 2017

The classification of tumors is crucial for the proper treatment of cancer. Sparse representation-based classifier (SRC) exhibits good classification performance and has been successfully used to classify tumors using gene expression profile data. In this study, we propose a three-step maxdenominator reweighted sparse representation classification (MRSRC) method to classify tumors. First, we extract a set of metagenes from the training samples. These metagenes can capture the structures inherent to the data and are more effective for classification than the original gene expression data. Second, we use a reweighted "Equation missing" regularization method to obtain the sparse representation coefficients. Reweighted "Equation missing" regularization can enhance sparsity and obtain better sparse representation coefficients. Third, we classify the data by utilizing a maxdenominator residual error function. Maxdenominator strategy can reduce the residual error and improve the accuracy of the final classification. Extensive experiments using publicly available gene expression profile data sets show that the performance of MRSRC is comparable with or better than many existing representative methods.
Allosteric inhibition of aminopeptidase N functions related to tumor growth and virus infection
Authors: Santiago César , Mudgal Gaurav , Reguera Juan , Recacha Rosario , Albrecht Sébastien , Enjuanes Luis , Casasnovas José M.
Published: April 2017

Cell surface aminopeptidase N (APN) is a membrane-bound ectoenzyme that hydrolyzes proteins and peptides and regulates numerous cell functions. APN participates in tumor cell expansion and motility, and is a target for cancer therapies. Small drugs that bind to the APN active site inhibit catalysis and suppress tumor growth. APN is also a major cell entry receptor for coronavirus, which binds to a region distant from the active site. Three crystal structures that we determined of human and pig APN ectodomains defined the dynamic conformation of the protein. These structures offered snapshots of closed, intermediate and open APN, which represent distinct functional states. Coronavirus envelope proteins specifically recognized the open APN form, prevented ectodomain progression to the closed form and substrate hydrolysis. In addition, drugs that bind the active site inhibited both coronavirus binding to cell surface APN and infection; the drugs probably hindered APN transition to the virus-specific open form. We conclude that allosteric inhibition of APN functions occurs by ligand suppression of ectodomain motions necessary for catalysis and virus cell entry, as validated by locking APN with disulfides. Blocking APN dynamics can thus be a valuable approach to development of drugs that target this ectoenzyme.
Dynamic representation of time in brain states
Authors: Bueno Fernanda Dantas , Morita Vanessa C. , de Camargo Raphael Y. , Reyes Marcelo B. , Caetano Marcelo S. , Cravo André M.
Published: April 2017

The ability to process time on the scale of milliseconds and seconds is essential for behaviour. A growing number of studies have started to focus on brain dynamics as a mechanism for temporal encoding. Although there is growing evidence in favour of this view from computational and in vitro studies, there is still a lack of results from experiments in humans. We show that high-dimensional brain states revealed by multivariate pattern analysis of human EEG are correlated to temporal judgements. First, we show that, as participants estimate temporal intervals, the spatiotemporal dynamics of their brain activity are consistent across trials. Second, we present evidence that these dynamics exhibit properties of temporal perception, such as scale invariance. Lastly, we show that it is possible to predict temporal judgements based on brain states. These results show how scalp recordings can reveal the spatiotemporal dynamics of human brain activity related to temporal processing.
Metabolomic characterisation of the effects of oncogenic PIK3CA transformation in a breast epithelial cell line
Authors: Lau Chung-Ho E. , Tredwell Gregory D. , Ellis James K. , Lam Eric W.-F. , Keun Hector C.
Published: April 2017

Somatic mutations in PIK3CA are frequently found in a number of human cancers, including breast cancer, altering cellular physiology and tumour sensitivity to chemotherapy. This renders PIK3CA an attractive molecular target for early detection and personalised therapy. Using 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometery (GC-MS) together with 13C stable isotope-labelled glucose and glutamine as metabolic tracers, we probed the phenotypic changes in metabolism following a single copy knock-in of mutant PIK3CA (H1047R) in the MCF10A cell line, an important cell model for studying oncogenic transformation in breast tissues. We observed effects in several metabolic pathways, including a decrease in glycerophosphocholine level together with increases in glutaminolysis, de novo fatty acid synthesis and pyruvate entry into the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Our findings highlight altered glyceroplipid metabolism and lipogenesis, as key metabolic phenotypes of mutant PIK3CA transformation that are recapitulated in the MCF10A cellular model.
Optimization of self-catalyzed InAs Nanowires on flexible graphite for photovoltaic infrared photodetectors
Authors: Anyebe Ezekiel A. , Sandall I. , Jin Z. M. , Sanchez Ana M. , Rajpalke Mohana K. , Veal Timothy D. , Cao Y. C. , Li H. D. , Harvey R. , Zhuang Q. D.
Published: April 2017

The recent discovery of flexible graphene monolayers has triggered extensive research interest for the development of III-V/graphene functional hybrid heterostructures. In order to fully exploit their enormous potential in device applications, it is essential to optimize epitaxial growth for the precise control of nanowire geometry and density. Herein, we present a comprehensive growth study of InAs nanowires on graphitic substrates by molecular beam epitaxy. Vertically well-aligned and thin InAs nanowires with high yield were obtained in a narrow growth temperature window of 420–450 °C within a restricted domain of growth rate and V/III flux ratio. The graphitic substrates enable high nanowire growth rates, which is favourable for cost-effective device fabrication. A relatively low density of defects was observed. We have also demonstrated InAs-NWs/graphite heterojunction devices exhibiting rectifying behaviour. Room temperature photovoltaic response with a cut-off wavelength of 3.4 μm was demonstrated. This elucidates a promising route towards the monolithic integration of InAs nanowires with graphite for flexible and functional hybrid devices.
Correction: Corrigendum: Sirtuin1 protects endothelial Caveolin-1 expression and preserves endothelial function via suppressing miR-204 and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Kassan Modar , Vikram Ajit , Kim Young-Rae , Li Qiuxia , Kassan Adam , Patel Hemal H. , Kumar Santosh , Gabani Mohanad , Liu Jing , Jacobs Julia S. , Irani Kaikobad
Published: April 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 42265; published online: 09 February 2017; updated: 10 April 2017 The original version of this Article contained errors in the spelling of the authors Modar Kassan, Ajit Vikram, Young-Rae Kim, Qiuxia Li, Adam Kassan, Hemal H. Patel, Santosh Kumar, Mohanad Gabani, Jing Liu, Julia S.
A Strategy for Precise Treatment of Cardiac Malignant Neoplasms
Authors: Wang Wenshuo , Shen Jinqiang , Tao Hongyue , Zhao Yun , Nian Hui , Wei Lai , Ling Xiaoyuan , Yang Ye , Xia Limin
Published: April 2017

The prevalence of cardiac malignant neoplasms in the general population has been shown to be significant higher than what was previously estimated, yet their treatment has remained difficult and effective therapies are lacking. In the current study, we developed a novel thermotherapy in which PEG-functionalized carbon nanotubes were injected into the tumor regions to assist in the targeted delivery of infrared radiation energy with minimal hyperthermic damage to the surrounding normal tissues. In a mouse model of cardiac malignant neoplasms, the injected carbon nanotubes could rapidly induce coagulative necrosis of tumor tissues when exposed to infrared irradiation. In accordance, the treatment was also found to result in a restoration of heart functions and a concomitant increase of survival rate in mice. Taken together, our carbon nanotube-based thermotherapy successfully addressed the difficulty facing conventional laser ablation methods with regard to off-target thermal injury, and could pave the way for the development of more effective therapies against cardiac malignant neoplasms.
Baculovirus LEF-11 Hijack Host ATPase ATAD3A to Promote Virus Multiplication in Bombyx mori cells
Authors: Dong Zhan-Qi , Hu Nan , Dong Fei-Fan , Chen Ting-Ting , Jiang Ya-Ming , Chen Peng , Lu Cheng , Pan Min-Hui
Published: April 2017

Research on molecular mechanisms that viruses use to regulate the host apparatus is important in virus infection control and antiviral therapy exploration. Our previous research showed that the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) LEF-11 localized to dense regions of the cell nucleus and is required for viral DNA replication. Herein, we examined the mechanism of LEF-11 on BmNPV multiplication and demonstrated that baculovirus LEF-11 interacts with Bombyx mori ATAD3A and HSPD1 (HSP60) protein. Furthermore, we showed that LEF-11 has the ability to induce and up-regulate the expression of ATAD3A and HSPD1, phenomena that were both reversed upon knockdown of lef-11. Our findings showed that ATAD3A and HSPD1 were necessary and contributed to BmNPV multiplication in Bombyx mori cells. Moreover, ATAD3A was found to directly interact with HSPD1. Interestingly, ATAD3A was required for the expression of HSPD1, while the knockdown of HSPD1 had no obvious effect on the expression level of ATAD3A. Taken together, the data presented in the current study demonstrated that baculovirus LEF-11 hijacks the host ATPase family members, ATAD3A and HSPD1, efficiently promote the multiplication of the virus. This study furthers our understanding of how baculovirus modulates energy metabolism of the host and provides a new insight into the molecular mechanisms of antiviral research.
Increased Serum Hyaluronic Acid and Heparan Sulfate in Dengue Fever: Association with Plasma Leakage and Disease Severity
Authors: Tang Tommy Hing-Cheung , Alonso Sylvie , Ng Lisa Fong-Poh , Thein Tun-Linn , Pang Vincent Jun-Xiong , Leo Yee-Sin , Lye David Chien-Boon , Yeo Tsin-Wen
Published: April 2017

Plasma leakage is a major pathogenic mechanism of severe dengue, but the etiology remains unclear. The association between endothelial glycocalyx integrity and vascular permeability in older adults with dengue has not been evaluated. A prospective cohort study of adults with undifferentiated fever screened for dengue by RT-PCR or NS1 antigen testing was performed. Patients were assessed daily while symptomatic and at convalescence. Serum hyaluronic acid (HA), heparan sulfate (HS) and selected cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10) were measured on enrollment and convalescence. Patients were diagnosed as dengue fever (DF, n = 30), dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF, n = 20) and non-dengue (ND) febrile illness (n = 11). Acute HA and HS levels were significantly higher in all dengue patients compared to ND (p = 0.0033 and p = 0.0441 respectively), but not different between DF and DHF (p = 0.3426 and p = 0.9180 respectively). Enrolment HA inversely correlated with serum albumin, protein and platelets in all dengue and DHF (p < 0.05). HA and HS in all dengue patients decreased significantly at convalescence. Serum IL-10 was significantly associated with HA in all dengue patients (p = 0.002). Serum HA and HS levels were increased in adult dengue and HA was associated with markers of disease severity. Endothelial glycocalyx damage may have a role in vascular leakage in dengue.
Response of the North Atlantic surface and intermediate ocean structure to climate warming of MIS 11
Authors: Kandiano Evgenia S. , van der Meer Marcel T. J. , Schouten Stefan , Fahl Kirsten , Sinninghe Damsté Jaap S. , Bauch Henning A.
Published: April 2017

Investigating past interglacial climates not only help to understand how the climate system operates in general, it also forms a vital basis for climate predictions. We reconstructed vertical stratification changes in temperature and salinity in the North Atlantic for a period some 400 ka ago (MIS11), an interglacial time analogue of a future climate. As inferred from a unique set of biogeochemical, geochemical, and faunal data, the internal upper ocean stratification across MIS 11 shows distinct depth-dependent dynamical changes related to vertical as well as lateral shifts in the upper Atlantic meridional circulation system. Importantly, transient cold events are recognized near the end of the long phase of postglacial warming at surface, subsurface, mid, and deeper water layers. These data demonstrate that MIS 11 coolings over the North Atlantic were initially triggered by freshwater input at the surface and expansion of cold polar waters into the Subpolar Gyre. The cooling signal was then transmitted downwards into mid-water depths. Since the cold events occurred after the main deglacial phase we suggest that their cause might be related to continuous melting of the Greenland ice sheet, a mechanism that might also be relevant for the present and upcoming climate.
Genetic architecture of gene expression underlying variation in host response to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection
Authors: Kommadath Arun , Bao Hua , Choi Igseo , Reecy James M. , Koltes James E. , Fritz-Waters Elyn , Eisley Chris J. , Grant Jason R. , Rowland Robert R. R. , Tuggle Christopher K. , Dekkers Jack C. M. , Lunney Joan K. , Guan Le Luo , Stothard Paul , Plastow Graham S.
Published: April 2017

It has been shown that inter-individual variation in host response to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) has a heritable component, yet little is known about the underlying genetic architecture of gene expression in response to PRRS virus (PRRSV) infection. Here, we integrated genome-wide genotype, gene expression, viremia level, and weight gain data to identify genetic polymorphisms that are associated with variation in inter-individual gene expression and response to PRRSV infection in pigs. RNA-seq analysis of peripheral blood samples collected just prior to experimental challenge (day 0) and at 4, 7, 11 and 14 days post infection from 44 pigs revealed 6,430 differentially expressed genes at one or more time points post infection compared to the day 0 baseline. We mapped genetic polymorphisms that were associated with inter-individual differences in expression at each day and found evidence ofcis-acting expression quantitative trait loci (cis-eQTL) for 869 expressed genes (qval < 0.05). Associations betweencis-eQTL markers and host response phenotypes using 383 pigs suggest that host genotype-dependent differences in expression ofGBP5, GBP6, CCHCR1 and CMPK2affect viremia levels or weight gain in response to PRRSV infection.
Giant caldera in the Arctic Ocean: Evidence of the catastrophic eruptive event
Authors: Piskarev Alexey , Elkina Daria
Published: April 2017

A giant caldera located in the eastern segment of the Gakkel Ridge could be firstly seen on the bathymetric map of the Arctic Ocean published in 1999. In 2014, seismic and multibeam echosounding data were acquired at the location. The caldera is 80 km long, 40 km wide and 1.2 km deep. The total volume of ejected volcanic material is estimated as no less than 3000 km3 placing it into the same category with the largest Quaternary calderas (Yellowstone and Toba). Time of the eruption is estimated as ~1.1 Ma. Thin layers of the volcanic material related to the eruption had been identified in sedimentary cores located about 1000 km away from the Gakkel Ridge. The Gakkel Ridge Caldera is the single example of a supervolcano in the rift zone of the Mid-Oceanic Ridge System.
Nitrate application or P deficiency induce a decline in Medicago truncatula N2-fixation by similar changes in the nodule transcriptome
Authors: Liese Rebecca , Schulze Joachim , Cabeza Ricardo A.
Published: April 2017

Nitrogen fixation of Medicago truncatula is regulated by the nitrogen status of leaves through inducing a repeatedly occurring 24-h nodule activity rhythm that reduces per day nitrogen fixation. The hypotheses of the present study were that (1) long-term moderate whole-plant P deficiency in Medicago truncatula induces an according daily rhythm in nitrogenase activity comparable to that induced by nitrate application and (2), the changes in the nodule transcriptome that go along with a strong nitrogenase activity decline during the afternoon would be similar under P deficiency or after nitrate supply. The nodules of plants in a low P treatment developed a rhythmic pattern of activity that resembled the pattern following nitrate application. A comprehensive, RNAseq-based comparative transcriptome profiling of nodules during a repeated part of the rhythm revealed similarities between P deficiency versus nitrate supply. Under both treatments, the formation of nitrogenase was targeted by a reduction in the expression of genes for nodule-specific cysteine-rich peptides (NCR), and possibly also by a disturbance of the inner cell iron allocation. A strong reduction in the expression of leghemoglobin is likely to have restricted the supply of oxygen for respiration.
Demonstration of nanoimprinted hyperlens array for high-throughput sub-diffraction imaging
Authors: Byun Minseop , Lee Dasol , Kim Minkyung , Kim Yangdoo , Kim Kwan , Ok Jong G. , Rho Junsuk , Lee Heon
Published: April 2017

Overcoming the resolution limit of conventional optics is regarded as the most important issue in optical imaging science and technology. Although hyperlenses, super-resolution imaging devices based on highly anisotropic dispersion relations that allow the access of high-wavevector components, have recently achieved far-field sub-diffraction imaging in real-time, the previously demonstrated devices have suffered from the extreme difficulties of both the fabrication process and the non-artificial objects placement. This results in restrictions on the practical applications of the hyperlens devices. While implementing large-scale hyperlens arrays in conventional microscopy is desirable to solve such issues, it has not been feasible to fabricate such large-scale hyperlens array with the previously used nanofabrication methods. Here, we suggest a scalable and reliable fabrication process of a large-scale hyperlens device based on direct pattern transfer techniques. We fabricate a 5 cm × 5 cm size hyperlenses array and experimentally demonstrate that it can resolve sub-diffraction features down to 160 nm under 410 nm wavelength visible light. The array-based hyperlens device will provide a simple solution for much more practical far-field and real-time super-resolution imaging which can be widely used in optics, biology, medical science, nanotechnology and other closely related interdisciplinary fields.
Resolvin D1 drives establishment of Leishmania amazonensis infection
Authors: Malta-Santos Hayna , Andrade Bruno B. , Zanette Dalila L. , Costa Jackson M. , Bozza Patrícia T. , Bandeira-Melo Christianne , Barral Aldina , França-Costa Jaqueline , Borges Valéria M.
Published: April 2017

Previous studies have indicated that the balance between different eicosanoids reflect the intensity of the inflammatory profile in patients with tegumentary leishmaniasis. More recently, pro-resolution lipid mediators have been shown to play critical roles in dampening pathological inflammatory processes to reestablish homeostasis in a diverse range of experimental settings. Among these lipid mediator, resolvins from D series have been described as potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mediators, and its activities include inhibition of leukocyte chemotaxis and blockage production of proinflammatory cytokines, while increasing the expression of regulatory mediators. Whether resolvins play significant roles in establishment and persistence ofLeishmaniainfection is currently unknown. We addressed this question in the current study by assessing circulating levels of D-series resolvins in tegumentary leishmaniasis patients presenting with localized or diffuse disease. We found heightened expression of resolvin D1 in diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis which was correlated with expression profile of biomarkers associated with disease pathogenesis. Additionalin vitroexperiments using primary human macrophages indicated that resolvin D1 may promote intracellularLeishmania amazonensisreplication through a mechanism associated with induction of heme oxygenase-1. These results suggest that targeting resolvin D1 could serve as potential strategy for host directed therapy in diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Fabrication of a quinone containing layer on gold nanoparticles directed to a label-free and reagentless electrochemical miRNA sensor
Authors: Tran Hoang Vinh , Nguyen Nghia Duc , Piro Benoit , Tran Luyen Thi
Published: April 2017

In this work, we report a simple electrochemical method to fabricate a label-free and reagentless electrochemical sensor for microRNA detection based on self-assembly of a multifunctional layer on gold nanoparticles-modified glassy carbon electrodes (AuNPs/GCEs).
Photoisomerisation and light-induced morphological switching of a polyoxometalate–azobenzene hybrid
Authors: Markiewicz Grzegorz , Pakulski Dawid , Galanti Agostino , Patroniak Violetta , Ciesielski Artur , Stefankiewicz Artur R. , Samorì Paolo
Published: April 2017

The functionalization of a spherical Keplerate-type polyoxometalate {Mo72V30} with a cationic azobenzene surfactant has been achieved through ionic self-assembly.
Crystalline nanotubular framework constructed by cucurbit[8]uril for selective CO2 adsorption
Authors: Wang Pinpin , Wu Yunlong , Zhao Yanxia , Yu Yang , Zhang Mingming , Cao Liping
Published: April 2017

A crystalline nanotubular framework (1) constructed by cucurbit[8]uril exhibits highly selective adsorption for CO2 over N2, CH4, and H2.
Formation of exceptionally weak C–C bonds by metal-templated pinacol coupling
Authors: Folkertsma E. , Benthem S. H. , Witteman L. , van Slagmaat C. A. M. R. , Lutz M. , Klein Gebbink R. J. M. , Moret M.-E.
Published: April 2017

Exceptionally weak (≥1.7 Å) carbon–carbon bonds are formed by the reduction of Fe(ii) or Zn(ii) complexes of a bis(imidazolyl)ketone ligand.
Extrinsic ion migration in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Li Zhen , Xiao Chuanxiao , Yang Ye , Harvey Steven P. , Kim Dong Hoe , Christians Jeffrey A. , Yang Mengjin , Schulz Philip , Nanayakkara Sanjini U. , Jiang Chun-Sheng , Luther Joseph M. , Berry Joseph J. , Beard Matthew C. , Al-Jassim Mowafak M. , Zhu Kai
Published: April 2017

Extrinsic ions (e.g., Li+) migrate across perovskite solar cells and modify the TiO2 layer, affecting device performance and hysteresis.
Synthesis of highly reactive polyisobutylene by catalytic chain transfer in hexanes at elevated temperatures; determination of the kinetic parameters
Authors: Rajasekhar Tota , Emert Jack , Faust Rudolf
Published: April 2017

The rate constants of activation/deactivation for dormant oxonium/active carbenium ions have been measured and related to the increasing polymerization rate with increasing temperature.
Synthesis of photoresponsive main-chain oligomers with azobenzene moieties via ADMET oligomerization and their micellization properties
Authors: Appiah Clement , Woltersdorf Georg , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: April 2017

We report the synthesis of azobenzene functionalized linear unsaturated/saturated polyolefin-oligomers.
Analysis of single fly ash particles using laser ablation ICP-MS – an approach achieving lateral elemental distribution information via imaging
Authors: Bauer G. , Achleitner B. , Bonta M. , Friedbacher G. , Limbeck A.
Published: April 2017

Analysis of single particles (∼100 μm) with LA-ICP-MS achieving lateral resolved composition of trace elementsvia2D-imaging.
Red-shift in fluorescence emission of D–A type asymmetrical Zn(ii) complexes by extending the π–π stacking interaction
Authors: Wang Wen-Jie , Hao Liang , Chen Chao-Yuan , Qiu Qi-Ming , Wang Ke , Song Jian-Biao , Li Hui
Published: April 2017

Two D–A type asymmetrical Zn(ii) coordination complexes, [ZnL1(C2H5OH)] (1) and [ZnL2(DMF)]·DMF (2) were designed, synthesized, and studied. Through the strategy of expanding π–π stacking interaction, fluorescence emission is red-shifted remarkably.
Artificial tubular connections between cells based on synthetic lipid nanotubes
Authors: Kozintsev Alexander , Sugihara Kaori
Published: April 2017

Open-ended artificial tubular connections between cells were controllably fabricated using synthetic lipid nanotubes.
Extended visible photosensitivity of carboxyethyltin functionalized polyoxometalates with common organic dyes enabling enhanced photoelectric performance
Authors: Guo Li-Ying , Li Ying , Zhang Yao , Li Jian-Sheng , You Wan-Sheng , Su Fang , Zhu Zai-Ming , Sang Xiao-Jing , Zhang Lan-Cui
Published: April 2017

A kind of broad spectral responsive photoelectrode was assembled from carboxyethyltin–POM derivatives and organic dyes.
Functionalized AIE nanoparticles with efficient deep-red emission, mitochondrial specificity, cancer cell selectivity and multiphoton susceptibility
Authors: Nicol Alexander , Qin Wei , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Burkhartsmeyer Jeffrey Mark , Zhu Zhenfeng , Su Huifang , Luo Wenwen , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Qian Jun , Wong Kam Sing , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2017

Mitochondria targeting biotinylated AIE nanoparticles are used as multiphoton imaging probes to identify cancer cells.
A polymer-supported electrolyte-affinity hybrid membrane and modification of the amphiphilic block copolymer for use as a super-high flexible and high-performance supercapacitor
Authors: Zhao Xiaoning , Yang Yunlong , Wu Jiayu , Tan Yongtao , Liu Ying , Kong Lingbin , Kang Long , Ran Fen
Published: April 2017

In this study, a super-high flexible membrane electrode (FME) was developed via a facile method based on liquid–liquid phase separation involving the migration and self-assembly of the components.
Normative Study of Wideband Acoustic Immittance Measures in Newborn Infants
Authors: Aithal Sreedevi , Kei Joseph , Aithal Venkatesh , Manuel Alehandrea , Myers Joshua , Driscoll Carlie , Khan Asaduzzaman
Published: April 2017

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe normative aspects of wideband acoustic immittance (WAI) measures obtained from healthy White neonates.

Method

In this cross-sectional study, wideband absorbance (WBA), admittance magnitude, and admittance phase were measured under ambient pressure condition in 326 ears from 203 neonates (
M
age = 45.9 hr) who passed a battery of tests, including automated auditory brainstem response, high-frequency tympanometry, and distortion product otoacoustic emissions.

Results

Normative WBA data were in agreement with most previous studies. Normative data for both WBA and admittance magnitude revealed double-peaked patterns with the 1st peak at 1.25–2 kHz and the 2nd peak at 5–8 kHz, while normative admittance phase data showed 2 peaks at 0.8 and 4 kHz. There were no significant differences between ears or gender for the 3 WAI measures. Standard deviations for all 3 measures were highest at frequencies above 4 kHz.

Conclusions

The 3 WAI measures between 1 kHz and 4 kHz may provide the most stable response of the outer and middle ear. WAI measures at frequencies above 4 kHz were more variable. The normative data established in the present study may serve as a reference for evaluating outer and middle ear function in neonates.
Epilogue: Reading Comprehension Is Not a Single Ability—Implications for Assessment and Instruction
Authors: Kamhi Alan G. , Catts Hugh W.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

In this epilogue, we review the 4 response articles and highlight the implications of a multidimensional view of reading for the assessment and instruction of reading comprehension.

Method

We reiterate the problems with standardized tests of reading comprehension and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of recently developed authentic tests of reading comprehension. In the “Instruction” section, we review the benefits and limitations of strategy instruction and highlight suggestions from the response articles to improve content and language knowledge.

Conclusions

We argue that the only compelling reason to administer a standardized test of reading comprehension is when these tests are necessary to qualify students for special education services. Instruction should be focused on content knowledge, language knowledge, and specific task and learning requirements. This instruction may entail the use of comprehension strategies, particularly those that are specific to the task and focus on integrating new knowledge with prior knowledge.
Similarities and dissimilarities between asthma and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Authors: Collins SM
Published: April 2017

Because both asthma and inflammatory bowel disease are chronic relapsing inflammatory conditions, comparisons are inevitable. Both disorders reflect the convergence of environmental trigger factors in genetically predisposed individuals. The genetic preposition may be on a polygenic basis or on the basis of genetic heterogeneity. Environmental factors that may trigger the expression or relapse in asthma and inflammatory bowel disease include: cigarette smoking (in Crohn's but not in ulcerative colitis), the use of non‐steroidal anti‐ inflammatory drugs in asthma and Crohn's disease), infection and possibly stress. TH lymphocytes are currently believed to be important in asthma and in Crohn's disease but not in ulcerative colitis. IgE‐ activated eosinophils and mast cells are central to the maintenance of asthma but do not play such a crucial role in inflammatory bowel disease. TH2 cytokines including IL‐4 and IL‐5 are believed to be important in the inflammatory response of asthma, and TH cytokines are believed to be in Crohn's disease but a TH1 or TH2 subclassification is not currently evident. The hallmark of asthma is increased reactivity of the airways, in terms of bronchoconstriction. Altered physiology also accompanies inflammatory bowel disease but hyperactivity is not an invariable feature. Finally, it is becoming increasingly evident that neural influences modulate inflammatory processes and this is likely to be relevant to both asthma and inflammatory bowel disease.
Pitfalls in cytokine analysis in inflammatory bowel disease.
Authors: Fiocchi C , Fukushima K , Strong SA , Ina K
Published: April 2017

Analysis of cytokine production and function is an indispensable tool to study Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. This analysis has generated a tremendous amount of data, but a clear interpretation of results has been hampered by limited attention paid to several patient‐ and sample‐related pitfalls. These include: clinical parameters; the relative value of circulating vs. intestinal cytokine levels; the selection of tissue specimens and their processing method; the specific cellular source of each cytokine; the effect of cytokine inducers; and the technique utilized to obtain qualitative or quantitative data on cytokine protein or mRNA. Once all of these crucial variables are taken into proper perspective, a better understanding will emerge of the true role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease.
Monoclonal antibody therapy of inflammatory bowel disease.
Authors: van Deventer SJ , Camoglio L
Published: April 2017

Several anti‐inflammatory drugs have therapeutic efficacy in inflammatory bowel disease, but their targets remain incompletely characterized. The development of monoclonal antibodies that either recognize epitopes on immune‐competent cells, or neutralize pro‐ inflammatory cytokines, has helped to define the importance of inflammatory mediators and their cellular sources in experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Moreover, two monoclonal antibodies, directed against CD4 and tumour necrosis factor, have been used to treat patients with steroid‐refractory Crohn's disease. Preliminary data suggest that immune‐modulatory monoclonal antibodies may have beneficial effects in selected patients with severe Crohn's disease.
Pedicled Transfer of the Superficial Inguinal Lymph Node Flap for Lymphedema
Authors: Kung Theodore , Duggan Nicole , Neligan Peter
Published: April 2017

Background Vascularized lymph node transfer is performed for select patients with lymphedema who remain refractory to nonsurgical therapies. Typically, this involves a microvascular free tissue transfer of donor lymph nodes to the affected area. We describe our experience with the transfer of a pedicled adipofascial flap containing the superficial inguinal lymph nodes for lower extremity lymphedema or penoscrotal lymphedema.

Methods In eight patients, a unilateral pedicled superficial inguinal lymph node flap was harvested. The flap consisted of subscarpal adipofascial tissue between the level of the inguinal ligament and the groin crease. Blood supply was from either the superficial circumflex iliac vessels or the superficial inferior epigastric vessels. In certain patients, concurrent lymphaticovenular anastomosis was attempted as well.

Results Four patients underwent pedicled superficial inguinal lymph node flap transfer for lower extremity lymphedema and for the other four patients the indication was penoscrotal lymphedema. Seven of the eight study patients reported improvements in their lymphedema symptoms. Postoperative complications included cellulitis in one patient and hematoma in another patient; neither patient required reoperation.

Conclusion The pedicled superficial inguinal lymph node flap is a feasible and safe treatment option for either lower extremity lymphedema or genital lymphedema. This case series provides the basis for additional studies regarding the potential use of this vascularized lymph node flap in select patients.
Temporal Artery Temperature Measurement in the Neonate
Authors: Syrkin-Nikolau Mashette , Johnson Karen , Colaizy Tarah , Schrock Ruthann , Bell Edward
Published: April 2017

Objective We compared an infrared temporal artery thermometer with our clinical standard axillary thermometer for temperature measurements in neonatal patients.

Study Design We measured temporal artery (Tta), axillary (Tax, clinical standard), and rectal (Tr, gold standard) temperatures of 49 infants. The difference between Tr and Tta was compared with that between Tr and Tax, and the data were analyzed based on bed type and postmenstrual age.

Results The mean Tta, Tax, and Tr were 37.16 (SD 0.36) °C, 36.61 (SD 0.30) °C, and 36.82 (SD 0.30) °C, respectively. The measurements by these methods were all significantly different. The mean Tr-Tax was 0.21 (SD 0.26) °C, and the mean Tr-Tta was −0.34 (SD 0.37) °C, indicating that Tax was closer to Tr than was Tta (p < 0.0001). Tta agreed more closely with Tr for infants in cribs than for those in incubators. Adjusting for bed type and body weight, with each week of postmenstrual age, the discrepancy between Tr-Tta and Tr-Tax decreased by 0.005°C (p = 0.034).

Conclusion Compared with the gold standard, Tr, Tta is not more accurate than Tax. The temporal artery thermometer was less accurate for infants in incubators than for infants in cribs. The accuracy of temporal artery temperature increased with postmenstrual age.
Genetic, Phenotypic, and Interferon Biomarker Status in ADAR1-Related Neurological Disease
Authors: Rice Gillian , Kitabayashi Naoki , Barth Magalie , Briggs Tracy , Burton Annabel , Carpanelli Maria , Cerisola Alfredo , Colson Cindy , Dale Russell , Danti Federica , Darin Niklas , De Azua Begoña , De Giorgis Valentina , De Goede Christian , Desguerre Isabelle , De Laet Corinne , Eslahi Atieh , Fahey Michael , Fallon Penny , Fay Alex , Fazzi Elisa , Gorman Mark , Gowrinathan Nirmala , Hully Marie , Kurian Manju , Leboucq Nicolas , Lin Jean-Pierre , Lines Matthew , Mar Soe , Maroofian Reza , Martí-Sanchez Laura , McCullagh Gary , Mojarrad Majid , Narayanan Vinodh , Orcesi Simona , Ortigoza-Escobar Juan , Pérez-Dueñas Belén , Petit Florence , Ramsey Keri , Rasmussen Magnhild , Rivier François , Rodríguez-Pombo Pilar , Roubertie Agathe , Stödberg Tommy , Toosi Mehran , Toutain Annick , Uettwiller Florence , Ulrick Nicole , Vanderver Adeline , Waldman Amy , Livingston John , Crow Yanick
Published: April 2017

We investigated the genetic, phenotypic, and interferon status of 46 patients from 37 families with neurological disease due to mutations in ADAR1. The clinicoradiological phenotype encompassed a spectrum of Aicardi–Goutières syndrome, isolated bilateral striatal necrosis, spastic paraparesis with normal neuroimaging, a progressive spastic dystonic motor disorder, and adult-onset psychological difficulties with intracranial calcification. Homozygous missense mutations were recorded in five families. We observed a p.Pro193Ala variant in the heterozygous state in 22 of 23 families with compound heterozygous mutations. We also ascertained 11 cases from nine families with a p.Gly1007Arg dominant-negative mutation, which occurred de novo in four patients, and was inherited in three families in association with marked phenotypic variability. In 50 of 52 samples from 34 patients, we identified a marked upregulation of type I interferon-stimulated gene transcripts in peripheral blood, with a median interferon score of 16.99 (interquartile range [IQR]: 10.64–25.71) compared with controls (median: 0.93, IQR: 0.57–1.30). Thus, mutations in ADAR1 are associated with a variety of clinically distinct neurological phenotypes presenting from early infancy to adulthood, inherited either as an autosomal recessive or dominant trait. Testing for an interferon signature in blood represents a useful biomarker in this context.
Teamwork in the NICU Setting and Its Association with Health Care–Associated Infections in Very Low-Birth-Weight Infants
Authors: Sharek Paul , Kan Peiyi , Rigdon Joseph , Desai Manisha , Nisbet Courtney , Tawfik Daniel , Thomas Eric , Lee Henry , Sexton J. , Profit Jochen
Published: April 2017

Background and Objective Teamwork may affect clinical care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) setting. The objective of this study was to assess teamwork climate across NICUs and to test scale-level and item-level associations with health care–associated infection (HAI) rates in very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants.

Methods Cross-sectional study of the association between HAI rates, defined as any bacterial or fungal infection during the birth hospitalization, among 6,663 VLBW infants cared for in 44 NICUs between 2010 and 2012. NICU HAI rates were correlated with teamwork climate ratings obtained in 2011 from 2,073 of 3,294 eligible NICU health professionals (response rate 63%). The relation between HAI rates and NICU teamwork climate was assessed using logistic regression models including NICU as a random effect.

Results Across NICUs, 36 to 100% (mean 66%) of respondents reported good teamwork. HAI rates were significantly and independently associated with teamwork climate (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.73–0.92, p = 0.005), such that the odds of an infant contracting a HAI decreased by 18% with each 10% rise in NICU respondents reporting good teamwork.

Conclusion Improving teamwork may be an important element in infection control efforts.
Phylogenetic Analysis and Molecular Characterization of Xanthium sibiricum Using DNA Barcoding, PCR-RFLP, and Specific Primers
Authors: Tomasello Salvatore , Heubl Günther
Published: April 2017

The fruits of Xanthium sibiricum have been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of nasal sinusitis and headaches. The genus Xanthium (cocklebur) is a taxonomically complex genus. Different taxonomic concepts have been proposed, some including several species, others lumping the different taxa in a few extremely polymorphic species. Due to the morphological similarities between species, the correct authentication of X. sibiricum is very difficult. Therefore, we established a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method and diagnostic PCR based on nuclear internal transcribed spacer and chloroplast trnQ-rps16 barcodes to differentiate X. sibirium from related species.

Results from the phylogenetic analyses based on sequence information from four marker regions (plastidal psbA-trnH and trnQ-rps16 and nuclear ITS and D35) support those taxonomic concepts accepting a reduced number of species, as four to five major clades are revealed in the phylogenetic reconstructions. X. sibiricum, together with some accessions from closely related taxa, is always supported as monophyletic, constituting a well-defined genetic entity. Allele-specific primer pairs for ITS and trnQ-rps16 were designed to amplify diagnostic products from the genomic DNA of X. sibiricum. Specific PCR in combination with digestion using the restriction enzyme MseI allowed for the identification of X. sibiricum by producing specific restriction patterns. The results demonstrate that the applied techniques provide effective and accurate authentication of X. sibiricum.