bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telemedicine using an iPad in the spinal cord injury population: a utility and patient satisfaction study
Authors: Sechrist Samantha , Lavoie Sarah , Khong Cria-May , Dirlikov Benjamin , Shem Kazuko
Published: August 2018

Study design

Prospective observational.

Objectives

To explore participants’ experience, satisfaction, and utility of telemedicine.

Setting

Spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation clinic at a county hospital.

Methods

Participants in this study received telemedicine appointments for routine scheduled care and/or urgent consults with a spinal cord injury specialist via iPad on FaceTime. Demographic changes, health care utilization, and medical complications were assessed. A Program Satisfaction Survey (PSS) was completed after a 6-month enrollment.

Results

Telemedicine visits included general follow-ups (51.25%), “multiple issues” (24.38%), skin (6.88%), bowel and bladder (5.63%), spasms (3.13%), and pain (3.13%). The PSS was collected (n = 45) and revealed positive results in perceived health, satisfaction with equipment/ease of use, and satisfaction with the program. Analysis of anecdotal comments revealed themes such as efficiency, convenience, and reduced barriers provided by telemedicine visits.

Conclusions

This study shows the feasibility and acceptance of a telemedicine intervention via iPad for individuals with SCI through positive PSS ratings and the wide variety of clinical topics addressed.

Sponsorship

Craig H. Neilsen Foundation.
A tutorial on how not to over-interpret STRUCTURE and ADMIXTURE bar plots
Authors: Lawson Daniel J. , van Dorp Lucy , Falush Daniel
Published: August 2018

Genetic clustering algorithms, implemented in programs such as STRUCTURE and ADMIXTURE, have been used extensively in the characterisation of individuals and populations based on genetic data. A successful example is the reconstruction of the genetic history of African Americans as a product of recent admixture between highly differentiated populations. Histories can also be reconstructed using the same procedure for groups that do not have admixture in their recent history, where recent genetic drift is strong or that deviate in other ways from the underlying inference model. Unfortunately, such histories can be misleading. We have implemented an approach, badMIXTURE, to assess the goodness of fit of the model using the ancestry “palettes” estimated by CHROMOPAINTER and apply it to both simulated data and real case studies. Combining these complementary analyses with additional methods that are designed to test specific hypotheses allows a richer and more robust analysis of recent demographic history.
Fast and powerful genome wide association of dense genetic data with high dimensional imaging phenotypes
Authors: Ganjgahi Habib , Winkler Anderson M. , Glahn David C. , Blangero John , Donohue Brian , Kochunov Peter , Nichols Thomas E.
Published: August 2018

Genome wide association (GWA) analysis of brain imaging phenotypes can advance our understanding of the genetic basis of normal and disorder-related variation in the brain. GWA approaches typically use linear mixed effect models to account for non-independence amongst subjects due to factors, such as family relatedness and population structure. The use of these models with high-dimensional imaging phenotypes presents enormous challenges in terms of computational intensity and the need to account multiple testing in both the imaging and genetic domain. Here we present a method that makes mixed models practical with high-dimensional traits by a combination of a transformation applied to the data and model, and the use of a non-iterative variance component estimator. With such speed enhancements permutation tests are feasible, which allows inference on powerful spatial tests like the cluster size statistic.
Charge carrier-selective contacts for nanowire solar cells
Authors: Oener Sebastian Z. , Cavalli Alessandro , Sun Hongyu , Haverkort Jos E. M. , Bakkers Erik P. A. M. , Garnett Erik C.
Published: August 2018

Charge carrier-selective contacts transform a light-absorbing semiconductor into a photovoltaic device. Current record efficiency solar cells nearly all use advanced heterojunction contacts that simultaneously provide carrier selectivity and contact passivation. One remaining challenge with heterojunction contacts is the tradeoff between better carrier selectivity/contact passivation (thicker layers) and better carrier extraction (thinner layers). Here we demonstrate that the nanowire geometry can remove this tradeoff by utilizing a permanent local gate (molybdenum oxide surface layer) to control the carrier selectivity of an adjacent ohmic metal contact. We show an open-circuit voltage increase for single indium phosphide nanowire solar cells by up to 335 mV, ultimately reaching 835 mV, and a reduction in open-circuit voltage spread from 303 to 105 mV after application of the surface gate. Importantly, reference experiments show that the carriers are not extracted via the molybdenum oxide but the ohmic metal contacts at the wire ends.
Non-linear response of summertime marine productivity to increased meltwater discharge around Greenland
Authors: Hopwood M. J. , Carroll D. , Browning T. J. , Meire L. , Mortensen J. , Krisch S. , Achterberg E. P.
Published: August 2018

Runoff from the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) is thought to enhance marine productivity by adding bioessential iron and silicic acid to coastal waters. However, experimental data suggest nitrate is the main summertime growth-limiting resource in regions affected by meltwater around Greenland. While meltwater contains low nitrate concentrations, subglacial discharge plumes from marine-terminating glaciers entrain large quantities of nitrate from deep seawater. Here, we characterize the nitrate fluxes that arise from entrainment of seawater within these plumes using a subglacial discharge plume model. The upwelled flux from 12 marine-terminating glaciers is estimated to be >1000% of the total nitrate flux from GrIS discharge. This plume upwelling effect is highly sensitive to the glacier grounding line depth. For a majority of Greenland’s marine-terminating glaciers nitrate fluxes will diminish as they retreat. This decline occurs even if discharge volume increases, resulting in a negative impact on nitrate availability and thus summertime marine productivity.
Two-dimensional type-II Dirac fermions in layered oxides
Authors: Horio M. , Matt C. E. , Kramer K. , Sutter D. , Cook A. M. , Sassa Y. , Hauser K. , Månsson M. , Plumb N. C. , Shi M. , Lipscombe O. J. , Hayden S. M. , Neupert T. , Chang J.
Published: August 2018

Relativistic massless Dirac fermions can be probed with high-energy physics experiments, but appear also as low-energy quasi-particle excitations in electronic band structures. In condensed matter systems, their massless nature can be protected by crystal symmetries. Classification of such symmetry-protected relativistic band degeneracies has been fruitful, although many of the predicted quasi-particles still await their experimental discovery. Here we reveal, using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, the existence of two-dimensional type-II Dirac fermions in the high-temperature superconductor La1.77Sr0.23CuO4. The Dirac point, constituting the crossing of $$d_{x^2 - y^2}$$

d

x

2

-

y

2

and $$d_{z^2}$$

d

z

2

bands, is found approximately one electronvolt below the Fermi level (EF) and is protected by mirror symmetry. If spin-orbit coupling is considered, the Dirac point degeneracy is lifted and the bands acquire a topologically non-trivial character. In certain nickelate systems, band structure calculations suggest that the same type-II Dirac fermions can be realised near EF.
A possible candidate for triply degenerate point fermions in trigonal layered PtBi2
Authors: Gao Wenshuai , Zhu Xiangde , Zheng Fawei , Wu Min , Zhang Jinglei , Xi Chuanying , Zhang Ping , Zhang Yuheng , Hao Ning , Ning Wei , Tian Mingliang
Published: August 2018

Triply degenerate point (TP) fermions in tungsten–carbide-type materials (e.g., MoP), which represent new topological states of quantum matter, have generated immense interest recently. However, the TPs in these materials are found to be far below the Fermi level, leading to the TP fermions having less contribution to low-energy quasiparticle excitations. Here, we theoretically predict the existence of TP fermions with TP points close to the Fermi level in trigonal layered PtBi2 by ab initio calculations, and experimentally verify the predicted band topology by magnetotransport measurements under high magnetic fields up to 40 T. Analyses of both the pronounced Shubnikov–de Haas and de Haas–van Alphen oscillations reveal the existence of six principal Fermi pockets. Our experimental results, together with those from ab initio calculations, reveal the interplay between transport behaviors and unique electronic structures, and support the existence of TP fermions in trigonal layered PtBi2.
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction: prevalence, pathophysiology, patient impact, diagnosis and management
Authors: Aggarwal Bhumika , Mulgirigama Aruni , Berend Norbert
Published: August 2018

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) can occur in individuals with and without asthma, and is prevalent among athletes of all levels. In patients with asthma, symptoms of EIB significantly increase the proportion reporting feelings of fearfulness, frustration, isolation, depression and embarrassment compared with those without symptoms. EIB can also prevent patients with asthma from participating in exercise and negatively impact their quality of life. Diagnosis of EIB is based on symptoms and spirometry or bronchial provocation tests; owing to low awareness of EIB and lack of simple, standardised diagnostic methods, under-diagnosis and mis-diagnosis of EIB are common. To improve the rates of diagnosis of EIB in primary care, validated and widely accepted symptom-based questionnaires are needed that can accurately replicate the current diagnostic standards (forced expiratory volume in 1 s reductions observed following exercise or bronchoprovocation challenge) in patients with and without asthma. In patients without asthma, EIB can be managed by various non-pharmacological methods and the use of pre-exercise short-acting β2-agonists (SABAs). In patients with asthma, EIB is often associated with poor asthma control but can also occur in individuals who have good control when not exercising. Inhaled corticosteroids are recommended when asthma control is suboptimal; however, pre-exercise SABAs are also widely used and are recommended as the first-line therapy. This review describes the burden, key features, diagnosis and current treatment approaches for EIB in patients with and without asthma and serves as a call to action for family physicians to be aware of EIB and consider it as a potential diagnosis.
Pressure-driven collapse of the relativistic electronic ground state in a honeycomb iridate
Authors: Clancy J. Patrick , Gretarsson Hlynur , Sears Jennifer A. , Singh Yogesh , Desgreniers Serge , Mehlawat Kavita , Layek Samar , Rozenberg Gregory Kh. , Ding Yang , Upton Mary H. , Casa Diego , Chen Ning , Im Junhyuck , Lee Yongjae , Yadav Ravi , Hozoi Liviu , Efremov Dmitri , van den Brink Jeroen , Kim Young-June
Published: August 2018

Honeycomb-lattice quantum magnets with strong spin-orbit coupling are promising candidates for realizing a Kitaev quantum spin liquid. Although iridate materials such as Li2IrO3 and Na2IrO3 have been extensively investigated in this context, there is still considerable debate as to whether a localized relativistic wavefunction (Jeff = 1/2) provides a suitable description for the electronic ground state of these materials. To address this question, we have studied the evolution of the structural and electronic properties of α-Li2IrO3 as a function of applied hydrostatic pressure using a combination of x-ray diffraction and x-ray spectroscopy techniques. We observe striking changes even under the application of only small hydrostatic pressure (P ≤ 0.1 GPa): a distortion of the Ir honeycomb lattice (via X-ray diffraction), a dramatic decrease in the strength of spin-orbit coupling effects (via X-ray absorption spectroscopy), and a significant increase in non-cubic crystal electric field splitting (via resonant inelastic X-ray scattering). Our data indicate that α-Li2IrO3 is best described by a Jeff = 1/2 state at ambient pressure, but demonstrate that this state is extremely fragile and collapses under the influence of applied pressure.
Reduced occupancy of hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in rural England and Wales: The influence of habitat and an asymmetric intra-guild predator
Authors: Williams Ben M. , Baker Philip J. , Thomas Emily , Wilson Gavin , Judge Johanna , Yarnell Richard W.
Published: August 2018

Agricultural landscapes have become increasingly intensively managed resulting in population declines across a broad range of taxa, including insectivores such as the hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus). Hedgehog declines have also been attributed to an increase in the abundance of badgers (Meles meles), an intra-guild predator. The status of hedgehogs across the rural landscape at large spatial scales is, however, unknown. In this study, we used footprint tracking tunnels to conduct the first national survey of rural hedgehog populations in England and Wales. Single and two-species occupancy modelling was used to quantify hedgehog occupancy in relation to habitat and predator covariates. Hedgehog occupancy was low (22% nationally), and significantly negatively related to badger sett density and positively related to the built environment. Hedgehogs were also absent from 71% of sites that had no badger setts, indicating that large areas of the rural landscape are not occupied by hedgehogs. Our results provide the first field based national survey of hedgehogs, providing a robust baseline for future monitoring. Furthermore, the combined effects of increasing badger abundance and intensive agriculture may have provided a perfect storm for hedgehogs in rural Britain, leading to worryingly low levels of occupancy over large spatial scales.
Engineering of Primary Human B cells with CRISPR/Cas9 Targeted Nuclease
Authors: Johnson Matthew J. , Laoharawee Kanut , Lahr Walker S. , Webber Beau R. , Moriarity Branden S.
Published: August 2018

B cells offer unique opportunities for gene therapy because of their ability to secrete large amounts of protein in the form of antibody and persist for the life of the organism as plasma cells. Here, we report optimized CRISPR/Cas9 based genome engineering of primary human B cells. Our procedure involves enrichment of CD19+ B cells from PBMCs followed by activation, expansion, and electroporation of CRISPR/Cas9 reagents. We are able expand total B cells in culture 10-fold and outgrow the IgD+ IgM+ CD27− naïve subset from 35% to over 80% of the culture. B cells are receptive to nucleic acid delivery via electroporation 3 days after stimulation, peaking at Day 7 post stimulation. We tested chemically modified sgRNAs and Alt-R gRNAs targeting CD19 with Cas9 mRNA or Cas9 protein. Using this system, we achieved genetic and protein knockout of CD19 at rates over 70%. Finally, we tested sgRNAs targeting the AAVS1 safe harbor site using Cas9 protein in combination with AAV6 to deliver donor template encoding a splice acceptor-EGFP cassette, which yielded site-specific integration frequencies up to 25%. The development of methods for genetically engineered B cells opens the door to a myriad of applications in basic research, antibody production, and cellular therapeutics.
Seasonal variability of diet and trophic level of the gelatinous predator Pelagia noctiluca (Scyphozoa)
Authors: Milisenda Giacomo , Rossi Sergio , Vizzini Salvatrice , Fuentes Veronica L. , Purcell Jennifer E. , Tilves Uxue , Piraino Stefano
Published: August 2018

Jellyfish populations apparently have increased in some places around the world and human problems with them also have increased. However, effects of jellyfish outbreaks in the ecosystems remain poorly understood and little or no information is available on their dietary preferences - in relation to the seasonal shifts of prey abundance - and on the potential variability of their impact on marine food webs. The mauve stinger Pelagia noctiluca (Forsskål, 1775) is by far the most common outbreak-forming scyphozoan jellyfish in the Western Mediterranean. By use of a combination of stomach contents, stable isotope (SI) and fatty acid (FA) analyses, we tested the hypothesis that changes in the seasonal dietary sources of P. noctiluca parallel changes in the FA and SI composition. Stomach content and biomarker analyses suggested that P. noctiluca is not a selective predator, cyclically shifting between carnivory and omnivory depending on the seasonality of accessible prey. The combination of SI and FA analyses highlighted the importance of microzooplankton as prey. Specific FA biomarkers showed that the diet of P. noctiluca changed seasonally depending on the availability of living plankton or suspended detritus. This study also revealed significant biochemical differences between jellyfish somatic and gonadal tissues, with total fatty acid concentration in the gonads up to ten times higher than in the somatic tissues.
Gingerol suppresses sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by modulating methylsulfonylmethane and dimethylamine production
Authors: Rodrigues Francisco Adelvane de Paulo , Santos Alan Diego da Conceição , de Medeiros Pedro Henrique Quintela Soares , Prata Mara de Moura Gondim , Santos Tailane Caína de Souza , da Silva James Almada , Brito Gerly Anne de Castro , dos Santos Armênio Aguiar , Silveira Edilberto Rocha , Lima Aldo Ângelo Moreira , Havt Alexandre
Published: August 2018

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and metabolic dysfunction are critical complications in sepsis syndrome; however, their pathophysiological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Therefore, we evaluated whether the pharmacological properties of 6-gingerol (6G) and 10-gingerol (10G) could modulate AKI and metabolic disruption in a rat model of sepsis (faecal peritonitis). Animals from the sham and AKI groups were intraperitoneally injected with 6G or 10G (25 mg/kg). Septic AKI decreased creatinine clearance and renal antioxidant activity, but enhanced oxidative stress and the renal mRNA levels of tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and transforming growth factor-β. Both phenol compounds repaired kidney function through antioxidant activity related to decreased oxidative/nitrosative stress and proinflammatory cytokines. Metabolomics analysis indicated different metabolic profiles for the sham surgery group, caecal ligation and puncture model alone group, and sepsis groups treated with gingerols.1H nuclear magnetic resonance analysis detected important increases in urinary creatine, allantoin, and dimethylglycine levels in septic rats. However, dimethylamine and methylsulfonylmethane metabolites were more frequently detected in septic animals treated with 6G or 10G, and were associated with increased survival of septic animals. Gingerols attenuated septic AKI by decreasing renal disturbances, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response through a mechanism possibly correlated with increased production of dimethylamine and methylsulfonylmethane.
Evidence Based Tailored Parotidectomy in Treating External Auditory Canal Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Jeon Mi , Joo Jin Woo , Kim Sung Huhn , Choi Jae Young , Moon In Seok
Published: August 2018

Carcinoma of the external auditory canal (EAC) is a rare tumor and little information is available regarding parotid gland in surgically treating EAC carcinomas. This study aimed to investigate the mode of parotid involvement in EAC carcinoma through staging and histopathological analysis, and to establish surgical guidelines for the parotid gland management when there is no clinical evidence of parotid involvement. Sixty-five patients with EAC carcinoma who underwent temporal bone resection and any type of parotidectomy simultaneously were retrospectively reviewed. The rate of direct parotid invasion and parotid nodal involvement was analyzed according to the stage and histopathological findings. Among the 65 patients, 39 were confirmed to have squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and 26 were confirmed to have adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). Direct parotid invasion occurred in 7 of 39 patients with SCC, only in the advanced stages, and in 15 of 26 patients with ACC, regardless of stage. Metastasis to the parotid node was noted in 6 patients with advanced-stage SCC, whereas no patient with ACC showed parotid nodal metastasis. For adequate tumor control with low risk of surgical complications, evidence based tailored parotidectomy should be applied. With no evidence of parotid involvement, an elective parotidectomy can be excluded in early SCC, whereas a total parotidectomy is recommended for advanced SCC. In ACC, basal resection of the parotid gland rather than a superficial or total parotidectomy should be performed at all disease stages.
Strong beaming of microwave surface waves with complementary split-ring-resonator arrays
Authors: Young Emily , Dockrey Joseph A. , Hibbins Alastair P. , Sambles J. Roy , Lawrence Christopher R.
Published: August 2018

A thin copper sheet, populated by an array of complementary split ring resonators, presents strong surface wave beaming in orthogonal directions at two distinct frequencies. This simple array is significantly thinner than existing single frequency beaming surfaces. The observed beaming frequencies are associated with the two lowest resonance modes of the split rings, and the beams are subwavelength in width and approximately non-diverging. The beaming is analysed through comparison of near-field scans of the surface-normal electric fields with numerical simulations.
Keap1–MCM3 interaction is a potential coordinator of molecular machineries of antioxidant response and genomic DNA replication in metazoa
Authors: Tamberg Nele , Tahk Siret , Koit Sandra , Kristjuhan Kersti , Kasvandik Sergo , Kristjuhan Arnold , Ilves Ivar
Published: August 2018

Coordination of DNA replication and cellular redox homeostasis mechanisms is essential for the sustained genome stability due to the sensitivity of replicating DNA to oxidation. However, substantial gaps remain in our knowledge of underlying molecular pathways. In this study, we characterise the interaction of Keap1, a central antioxidant response regulator in Metazoa, with the replicative helicase subunit protein MCM3. Our analysis suggests that structural determinants of the interaction of Keap1 with its critical downstream target - Nrf2 master transactivator of oxidative stress response genes – may have evolved in evolution to mimic the conserved helix-2-insert motif of MCM3. We show that this has led to a competition between MCM3 and Nrf2 proteins for Keap1 binding, and likely recruited MCM3 for the competitive binding dependent modulation of Keap1 controlled Nrf2 activities. We hypothesise that such mechanism could help to adjust the Keap1-Nrf2 antioxidant response pathway according to the proliferative and replicative status of the cell, with possible reciprocal implications also for the regulation of cellular functions of MCM3. Altogether this suggests about important role of Keap1-MCM3 interaction in the cross-talk between replisome and redox homeostasis machineries in metazoan cells.
Assessment of candidate elements for development of spectral photon-counting CT specific contrast agents
Authors: Kim Johoon , Bar-Ness Daniel , Si-Mohamed Salim , Coulon Philippe , Blevis Ira , Douek Philippe , Cormode David P.
Published: August 2018

Spectral photon-counting computed tomography (SPCCT) is a rapidly emerging imaging modality that provides energy-dependent information on individual x-ray photons, leading to accurate material decomposition and simultaneous quantification of multiple contrast generating materials. Development of SPCCT-specific contrast agents is needed to overcome the issues with currently used iodinated contrast agents, such as difficulty in differentiation from calcified structures, and yield SPCCT’s full promise. In this study, the contrast generation of different elements is investigated using a prototype SPCCT scanner based on a modified clinical CT system and suitable elements for novel contrast agent development for SPCCT imaging are identified. Furthermore, nanoparticles were synthesized from tantalum as a proof of concept spectral photon-counting CT agent and tested for their in vitro cytotoxicity and contrast generation to provide insight into the feasibility of nanoparticle contrast agent development from these elements. We found that gadolinium, ytterbium and tantalum generate high contrast in spectral photon-counting CT imaging and may be suitable elements for contrast agent development for this modality. Our proof of concept results with tantalum-based nanoparticles underscore this conclusion due to their detectability with spectral photon-counting CT, as well as their biocompatibility.
Advancing micro-scale cooling by utilizing liquid-liquid phase separation
Authors: Xing Wei , Ullmann Amos , Brauner Neima , Plawsky Joel , Peles Yoav
Published: August 2018

Achieving effective cooling within limited space is one of the key challenges for miniaturized product design. State-of-the-art micro-scale cooling enhancement techniques incorporate flow disturbances and boiling to reach high performance. However, these methods face the inherent issues of extra pressure drop, flow instability and dry-out that limits heat flux. Here we demonstrate that substantial cooling capability enhancement, up to 2.5 times, is realized by introducing the phase separation of a triethylamine (TEA)/water mixture at the micro-scale. Our experiments show that the enhancement behavior is closely related to the system’s initial composition, temperature, and flow conditions. Moreover, the mixture system exhibits reduced pressure drop after separation, which makes it more promising in serving practical applications. The results reveal new possibilities for liquid coolant selection and provide the experimental foundation for further research in this area.
Effectiveness of Z-score of log-transformed A Body Shape Index (LBSIZ) in predicting cardiovascular disease in Korea: the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study
Authors: Moon Shinje , Park Jung Hwan , Ryu Ohk-Hyun , Chung Wankyo
Published: August 2018

Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) have limitations in stratifying cardio-metabolic risks. Another obesity measure, A Body Shape Index (ABSI), has been introduced but its applicability remains limited. To address this, the z-score of the log-transformed ABSI (LBSIZ) was recently developed. This study aimed to examine the ability of LBSIZ, compared to that of WC and BMI, to predict cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. The study included 8,485 participants aged 40–69 years (mean age = 52.1) who were followed for 10 years and recruited from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, a population-based cohort study. The area under the curve was 0.635 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.614–0.657) for LBSIZ, 0.604 (95%CI: 0.580–0.627) for WC, and 0.538 (95%CI: 0.514–0.562) for BMI. The AUC of the Framingham risk score (FRS) was 0.680 (95%CI: 0.659–0.701) in comparison. When we added LBSIZ to the model, the integrated AUC significantly improved from 0.680 to 0.692 (95%CI: 0.672–0.713; p value, 0.033), whereas there were no changes with BMI (AUC, 0.678; 95%CI: 0.656–0.699) or WC (AUC, 0.679; 95%CI: 0.658–0.701). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, LBSIZ but not BMI or WC showed a significant hazard ratio of CVD event compared to 1st decile of each parameter. In the restricted cubic spline regression, BMI and WC showed an overall J-shaped relationship with CVD events whereas LBSIZ showed a linear relationship. LBSIZ is strongly associated with CVD risk and should predict CVD risk better than BMI and WC in the general population.
Sedimentary signals of recent faulting along an old strand of the San Andreas Fault, USA
Authors: Fosdick Julie C. , Blisniuk Kimberly
Published: August 2018

Continental transform fault systems are fundamental features in plate tectonics. These complex systems often constitute multiple fault strands with variable spatio-temporal histories. Here, we re-evaluate the complex history of the San Andreas Fault along a restraining bend in southern California (USA). The Mission Creek strand of the San Andreas Fault is a major geologic structure with ~90 km of strike-slip displacement but is currently mapped as inactive. Quaternary deposits record sediment dispersal across the fault from upland catchments and yield key markers of the fault’s displacement history. Our sediment provenance analysis from the Deformed Gravels of Whitewater and the Cabezon Fanglomerate provide detrital geochronologic and lithologic signatures of potential sources within the San Bernardino Mountains and Little San Bernardino Mountains. Statistical analysis shows that the Cabezon Fanglomerate is most compatible with the Mission Creek and Morongo Valley Canyon sources, rather than the Whitewater Canyon as previously suggested. We propose that displacement since deposition ~500–100 ka across the Mission Creek strand has separated these deposits from their original sources. These findings challenge the current paradigm that the Mission Creek strand is inactive and suggest that the fault continues to be a primary structure in accommodating deformation along the Pacific-North American plate boundary.
Dual action of the Gαq-PLCβ-PI(4,5)P2 pathway on TRPC1/4 and TRPC1/5 heterotetramers
Authors: Myeong Jongyun , Ko Juyeon , Kwak Misun , Kim Jinsung , Woo Joohan , Ha Kotdaji , Hong Chansik , Yang Dongki , Kim Hyun Jin , Jeon Ju-Hong , So Insuk
Published: August 2018

The transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 1 channel is widely distributed in mammalian cells and is involved in many physiological processes. TRPC1 is primarily considered a regulatory subunit that forms heterotetrameric channels with either TRPC4 or TRPC5 subunits. Here, we suggest that the regulation of TRPC1/4 and TRPC1/5 heterotetrameric channels by the Gαq-PLCβ pathway is self-limited and dynamically mediated by Gαq and PI(4,5)P2. We provide evidence indicating that Gαq protein directly interacts with either TRPC4 or TRPC5 of the heterotetrameric channels to permit activation. Simultaneously, Gαq-coupled PLCβ activation leads to the breakdown of PI(4,5)P2, which inhibits activity of TRPC1/4 and 1/5 channels.
Targeting proinflammatory cytokines ameliorates calcifying phenotype conversion of vascular progenitors under uremic conditions in vitro
Authors: Hegner Björn , Schaub Theres , Janke Daniel , Zickler Daniel , Lange Claudia , Girndt Matthias , Jankowski Joachim , Schindler Ralf , Dragun Duska
Published: August 2018

Severe vascular calcification develops almost invariably in chronic kidney patients posing a substantial risk to quality of life and survival. This unmet medical need demands identification of novel therapeutic modalities. We aimed to pinpoint components of the uremic microenvironment triggering differentiation of vascular progenitors to calcifying osteoblast-like cells. In an unbiased approach, assessing the individual potency of 63 uremic retention solutes to enhance calcific phenotype conversion of vascular progenitor cells, the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α were identified as the strongest inducers followed by FGF-2, and PTH. Pharmacologic targeting of these molecules alone or in combination additively antagonized pro-calcifying properties of sera from uremic patients. Our findings stress the importance of pro-inflammatory cytokines above other characteristic components of the uremic microenvironment as key mediators of calcifying osteoblastic differentiation in vascular progenitors. Belonging to the group of “middle-sized molecules”, they are neither effectively removed by conventional dialysis nor influenced by established supportive therapies. Specific pharmacologic interventions or novel extracorporeal approaches may help preserve regenerative capacity and control vascular calcification due to uremic environment.
Repeatability and reliability of exploratory behavior in proactive and reactive zebrafish, Danio rerio
Authors: Baker Matthew R. , Goodman Alexander C. , Santo Jonathan B. , Wong Ryan Y.
Published: August 2018

Behavioral responses to novel situations often vary and can belong to a suite of correlated behaviors. Characteristic behaviors of different personality types (e.g. stress coping styles) are generally consistent across contexts and time. Here, we compare the repeatability and reliability of exploratory behaviors between zebrafish strains selectively bred to display contrasting behavioral responses to stressors that represent the proactive-reactive axis. Specifically, we measure exploratory behavior of individual fish in an open field test over five weeks. We quantified the stationary time, average swimming speed and time spent by a fish in the center area. We found a number of strain differences for each behavioral measure. Stationary time was the most repeatable and reliable measure for assessing proactive-reactive behavioral differences. Reactive zebrafish generally showed the highest reliability and repeatability of exploratory behavior compared to proactive zebrafish and a separate wild caught strain. Given the increased interest in the evolutionary consequences and proximate mechanisms of consistent individual differences, it will be important to continue to investigate how different selective pressures may influence expression of stress coping styles and their effects on the consistency of an animal’s behavior.
Lateralization influences contest behaviour in domestic pigs
Authors: Camerlink Irene , Menneson Sophie , Turner Simon P. , Farish Marianne , Arnott Gareth
Published: August 2018

Cerebral lateralization, i.e. hemispheric asymmetries in structure and function, relates in many species to a preference to attack from their left. Lateralization increases cognitive capacity, enabling the simultaneous processing of multiple sources of information. Therefore, lateralization may constitute a component of fighting ability (Resource Holding Potential), and/or influence the efficiency of information-gathering during a contest. We hypothesized that lateralization will affect contest outcome and duration, with an advantage for more strongly lateralized individuals. In 52 dyadic contests between weight-matched pigs (Sus scrofa; n = 104; 10 wk age), the direction of orientation towards the opponent was scan sampled every 10 s. Laterality indexes (LI) were calculated for the direction and strength of lateralization. Up to 12.5% of the individuals showed significant lateralization towards either the right or left but lateralization was absent at the population level. In line with our hypothesis, animals showing strong lateralization (irrespective of direction) had a shorter contest duration than animals showing weak lateralization. Winners did not differ from losers in their strength or direction of lateralization. Overall the results suggest that cerebral lateralization may aid in conflict resolution, but does not directly contribute to fighting ability, and will be of value in the study of animal contests.
Topographic aspect affects the vegetation restoration and artificial soil quality of rock-cut slopes restored by external-soil spray seeding
Authors: Li Ruirui , Zhang Wenjuan , Yang Siqian , Zhu Mengke , Kan Shasha , Chen Jiao , Ai Xiaoyan , Ai Yingwei
Published: August 2018

External-soil spray seeding (ESSS), a technique of spraying artificial soil materials onto bare slopes for vegetation cover construction, has been widely used to restore rock-cut slopes. However, studies on the effect of the practical application of this technique on different topographic aspects have been rarely performed. In this study, two topographic aspects, namely, north-facing versus south-facing, were investigated under two railway lines, and two local natural slopes (north-facing versus south-facing) were selected as references. Vegetation and soil conditions, which are paramount aspects of ecological restoration assessment, were characterized in terms of the richness and diversity indices, vegetation canopy cover, basic soil physico-chemical properties, and structural characteristics of these slopes. Results showed that (1) the topographic aspect significantly affected the vegetation restoration and artificial soil quality of rock-cut slopes restored by ESSS; (2) the ecological restoration effect of north-facing slopes were better than that of south-facing slopes; and (3) the vegetation and soil conditions of natural slopes were better than those of rock-cut slopes. Therefore, additional scientific management measures should be implemented to promote the ecological restoration of rock-cut slopes, especially for south-facing slopes.
Oxidative stress decreases the redox ratio and folate content in the gut microbe, Enterococcus durans (MTCC 3031)
Authors: Jose Steffi , Bhalla Prerna , Suraishkumar G. K.
Published: August 2018

Gut microbiome plays an important role in determining the effectiveness of cancer therapy. The composition of the microbiome is crucial to maintain good digestive health in the host, and to prevent and treat colorectal cancers. Most cancer therapies employ oxidative stress, which disturbs the redox status of the cell, and consequently affect growth, reductive biosynthesis and cell death. Therefore, oxidative stress can undesirably affect the gut microbiome. Hence, it is important to understand the impact of oxidative stress on gut bacteria to devise effective treatment strategies. The current study induces oxidative stress in the model gut bacterium Enterococcus durans (MTCC 3031) with menadione and H2O2. Oxidative stress considerably decreased the redox ratio (NADPH/NADP), an indicator of the redox status, by 55% (menadione) and 28% (H2O2). In addition, an oxidative stress induced decrease in redox ratio decreased folate synthesis by the bacteria, which is an undesirable consequence for the host, since folate deficiency can induce colorectal cancer. Further, oxidative stress considerably decreased growth and the biomass density by 61% (menadione) and 21% (H2O2). Thus, maintenance of the cellular redox status and management of oxidative stress in the gut microbiome may be crucial to the effectiveness of cancer treatment strategies.
Quantitative analysis of retinal and choroidal microvascular changes in patients with diabetes
Authors: Kim Mirinae , Choi Seung Yong , Park Young-Hoon
Published: August 2018

The relationship between choroidal and retinal microvascular changes has not yet been well described, and there were limited data on diagnostic ability of optical coherence tomography (OCT)-derived vascular parameters for determining diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression. We quantitatively analyzed OCT-derived vascular parameters at superficial (SCP) and deep retinal capillary plexus (DCP), and choroid. We assessed foveal avascular zone (FAZ), vessel density, vessel length density, and choroidal vascularity index in conjunction with DR stage. In this study, patients with diabetes and healthy controls were retrospectively analyzed. One-hundred seventy-four eyes were divided into six groups as follows: Healthy controls, no DR, mild non-proliferative DR (NPDR), moderate NPDR, severe NPDR, and proliferative DR. There were significant quantitative changes in retinal and choroidal vascular parameters with DR progression. The FAZ area and perimeter correlated positively with worsening DR severity; the FAZ circularity index, retinal vessel density, retinal vessel length density, and choroidal vascularity index correlated negatively with worsening severity. Among these, FAZ circulatory index demonstrated good diagnostic performance for DR. Our results cautiously suggest that functional circulatory disturbances in retinal and choroidal vasculatures occur before DR presents. As DR progresses, DCP retinal microvasculature changes precede SCP changes.
Snake fungal disease alters skin bacterial and fungal diversity in an endangered rattlesnake
Authors: Allender Matthew C. , Baker Sarah , Britton Megan , Kent Angela D.
Published: August 2018

Snake Fungal Disease (SFD), caused by Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, is the most recently described fungal disease afflicting wildlife populations across North America and Europe. It has been proposed as a significant conservation threat yielding high mortality and yet much its ecology is unknown. We collected 144 skin swabs from Eastern Massasaugas (Sistrurus catenatus) in 2015 and 2016 to determine document ongoing prevalence and assess differences in microbial assemblages between positive and negative individuals. Alpha diversity of fungi was reduced in SFD positive animals, while beta diversity identified distinct assemblages of microbes between SFD–positive and –negative samples. Ophidiomyces was present on the skin of affected animals, even on body sites distant to lesions indicating that the microbiome on entire surface of the skin is altered. Ophidiomyces was not detected in any non-SFD snake. There were smaller, but significant, influences of year sampled. Bacterial genera Janthinobacterium and Serratia were significantly increased in SFD snakes, while Xylanimicrobium, Cellulosimicrobium, and Rhodococcus were the only bacterial taxa significantly reduced. The relative abundance of fungi within the orders Pleosporales and Canopdiales was reduced in SFD-positive samples, though Pyrenochaetopsis pratorum was the only species found to differ significantly. This is the first study to determine the impact that this fungal pathogen has on the skin microbiome.
Ultra-rapid, sensitive and specific digital diagnosis of HIV with a dual-channel SAW biosensor in a pilot clinical study
Authors: Gray Eleanor R. , Turbé Valérian , Lawson Victoria E. , Page Robin H. , Cook Zara C. , Ferns R. Bridget , Nastouli Eleni , Pillay Deenan , Yatsuda Hiromi , Athey Dale , McKendry Rachel A.
Published: August 2018

Despite widened access to HIV testing, around half of those infected worldwide are unaware of their HIV-positive status and linkage to care remains a major challenge. Current rapid HIV tests are typically analogue risking incorrect interpretation, no facile electronic data capture, poor linkage to care and data loss for public health. Smartphone-connected diagnostic devices have potential to dramatically improve access to testing and patient retention with electronic data capture and wireless connectivity. We report a pilot clinical study of surface acoustic wave biosensors based on low-cost components found in smartphones to diagnose HIV in 133 patient samples. We engineered a small, portable, laboratory prototype and dual-channel biochips, with in-situ reference control coating and miniaturised configuration, requiring only 6 µL plasma. The dual-channel biochips were functionalized by ink-jet printing with capture coatings to detect either anti-p24 or anti-gp41 antibodies, and a reference control. Biochips were tested with 31 plasma samples from patients with HIV, and 102 healthy volunteers. SH-SAW biosensors showed excellent sensitivity, specificity, low sample volumes and rapid time to result, and were benchmarked to commercial rapid HIV tests. Testing for individual biomarkers found sensitivities of 100% (anti-gp41) and 64.5% (anti-p24) (combined sensitivity of 100%) and 100% specificity, within 5 min. All positive results were recorded within 60 s of sample addition with an electronic readout. Next steps will focus on a smartphone-connected device prototype and user-friendly app interface for larger scale evaluation and field studies, towards our ultimate goal of a new generation of affordable, connected point-of-care HIV tests.
Neural precursor cells form integrated brain-like tissue when implanted into rat cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Pothayee Nikorn , Maric Dragan , Sharer Kathryn , Tao-Cheng Jung-Hwa , Calac Alec , Bouraoud Nadia , Pickel James , Dodd Stephen , Koretsky Alan
Published: August 2018

There is tremendous interest in transplanting neural precursor cells for brain tissue regeneration. However, it remains unclear whether a vascularized and integrated complex neural tissue can be generated within the brain through transplantation of cells. Here, we report that early stage neural precursor cells recapitulate their seminal properties and develop into large brain-like tissue when implanted into the rat brain ventricle. Whereas the implanted cells predominantly differentiated into glutamatergic neurons and astrocytes, the host brain supplied the intact vasculature, oligodendrocytes, GABAergic interneurons, and microglia that seamlessly integrated into the new tissue. Furthermore, local and long-range axonal connections formed mature synapses between the host brain and the graft. Implantation of precursor cells into the CSF-filled cavity also led to a formation of brain-like tissue that integrated into the host cortex. These results may constitute the basis of future brain tissue replacement strategies.
Zinc deficiency causes delayed ATP clearance and adenosine generation in rats and cell culture models
Authors: Takeda Taka-aki , Miyazaki Shiho , Kobayashi Miki , Nishino Katsutoshi , Goto Tomoko , Matsunaga Mayu , Ooi Minami , Shirakawa Hitoshi , Tani Fumito , Kawamura Tatsuyoshi , Komai Michio , Kambe Taiho
Published: August 2018

Zinc deficiency causes myriad pathophysiological symptoms, but why distinct phenotypes are generated by zinc deficiency remains unclear. Considering that several ectoenzymes involved in purinergic signaling through extracellular adenine-nucleotide hydrolysis possess zinc ions in their active sites, and disorders in purinergic signaling result in diverse diseases that are frequently similar to those caused by zinc deficiency, herein we examine whether zinc deficiency affects extracellular adenine-nucleotide metabolism. Zinc deficiency severely impairs the activities of major ectoenzymes (ENPP1, ENPP3, NT5E/CD73, and TNAP), and also strongly suppresses adenine-nucleotide hydrolysis in cell-membrane preparations or rat plasma, thereby increasing ATP and ADP levels and decreasing adenosine levels. Thus, zinc deficiency delays both extracellular ATP clearance and adenosine generation, and zinc modulates extracellular adenine-nucleotide metabolism. Since the finely tuned balance between extracellular adenine nucleotides and adenosine is critical for purinergic signaling, these findings provide a novel insight into why zinc deficiency results in diverse symptoms.
In vitroantioxidant efficacy and the therapeutic potential ofWendlandia heynei(Schult.) Santapau & Merchant against bisphenol A-induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Maryam Sonia , Khan Muhammad Rashid , Shah Sayed Afzal , Zahra Zartash , Majid Muhammad , Sajid Moniba , Ali Saima
Published: August 2018

Ameliorative effects ofWendlandia heyneiagainst bisphenol A induced hepatic toxicity in rat.
Ultrasound-assisted emulsification of solidified floating organic drop microextracted for pre-concentration of cadmium in food and water samples
Authors: de S. Dias Fabio , Peixoto Leandro B. , Meira Lucília A. , Barreto Jeferson A.
Published: August 2018

This work showed the developed of analytical method for determination of cadmium in foods and water samples using ultrasound assisted emulsification of solidified floating organic drop microextraction with 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-p cresol (TAC).
Calcium alginate microparticles for rare earth elements preconcentration prior to ICP-MS measurements in fresh water
Authors: Arantes de Carvalho Gabriel G. , Petri Denise F. S. , Oliveira Pedro V.
Published: August 2018

Calcium alginate microparticles were used for the preconcentration of rare earth elements for ICP-MS analysis of fresh waters.
Generation of a series of Bn fused oligo-naphthalenes (n = 1 to 3) from a B1-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon
Authors: Kahan R. J. , Crossley D. L. , Cid J. , Radcliffe J. E. , Woodward A. W. , Fasano V. , Endres S. , Whitehead G. F. S. , Ingleson M. J.
Published: August 2018

The first three members of a series of {B-Mes} fused oligo-naphthalenes have been synthesised and trends in key properties of this series have been elucidated.