bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of isomeric plastomes and effectiveness of plastome super-barcodes in yews (Taxus) worldwide
Authors: Fu Chao-Nan , Wu Chung-Shien , Ye Lin-Jiang , Mo Zhi-Qiong , Liu Jie , Chang Yu-Wen , Li De-Zhu , Chaw Shu-Miaw , Gao Lian-Ming
Published: February 2019

Taxus (yew) is both the most species-rich and taxonomically difficult genus in Taxaceae. To date, no study has elucidated the complexities of the plastid genome (plastome) or examined the possibility of whole plastomes as super-barcodes across yew species worldwide. In this study, we sequenced plastomes from two to three individuals for each of the 16 recognized yew species (including three potential cryptics) and Pseudotaxus chienii. Our comparative analyses uncovered several gene loss events that independently occurred in yews, resulting in a lower plastid gene number than other Taxaceous genera. In Pseudotaxus and Taxus, we found two isomeric arrangements that differ by the orientation of a 35 kb fragment flanked by “trnQ-IRs”. These two arrangements exist in different ratios within each sampled individual, and intraspecific shifts in major isomeric arrangements are first reported here in Taxus. Moreover, we demonstrate that entire plastomes can be used to successfully discriminate all Taxus species with 100% support, suggesting that they are useful as super-barcodes for species identification. We also propose that accD and rrn16-rrn23 are promising special barcodes to discriminate yew species. Our newly developed Taxus plastomic sequences provide a resource for super-barcodes and conservation genetics of several endangered yews and serve as comprehensive data to improve models of plastome complexity in Taxaceae as a whole and authenticate Taxus species.
Analytic framework for understanding the competing multiple light scattering processes
Authors: Lee Ye-Ryoung , Choi Wonjun , Jeong Seungwon , Choi Wonshik
Published: February 2019

In many complex physical phenomena such as wave propagation in scattering media, the process of interest often cannot be easily distinguished from other processes because only the total combined process is accessible. This makes it difficult to extract the precise knowledge of each subprocess. Here, we derive an analytic expression describing the way the eigenchannel coupling of the total process distributes its energy to the individual subprocesses, with only partial information on each subprocess such as the average eigenvalue 〈τ〉 and enhancement factor η. We found that the ratio of (η − 1)〈τ〉 between two subprocesses is a critical parameter determining the preferable subprocess in the energy coupling. This work provides a new analytic framework for understanding the effect of wavefront shaping in the control of wave propagation in disordered media.
Repeated neonatal isoflurane exposures in the mouse induce apoptotic degenerative changes in the brain and relatively mild long-term behavioral deficits
Authors: Maloney Susan E. , Yuede Carla M. , Creeley Catherine E. , Williams Sasha L. , Huffman Jacob N. , Taylor George T. , Noguchi Kevin N. , Wozniak David F.
Published: February 2019

Epidemiological studies suggest exposures to anesthetic agents and/or sedative drugs (AASDs) in children under three years old, or pregnant women during the third trimester, may adversely affect brain development. Evidence suggests lengthy or repeated AASD exposures are associated with increased risk of neurobehavioral deficits. Animal models have been valuable in determining the type of acute damage in the developing brain induced by AASD exposures, as well as in elucidating long-term functional consequences. Few studies examining very early exposure to AASDs suggest this may be a critical period for inducing long-term functional consequences, but the impact of repeated exposures at these ages has not yet been assessed. To address this, we exposed mouse pups to a prototypical general anesthetic, isoflurane (ISO, 1.5% for 3 hr), at three early postnatal ages (P3, P5 and P7). We quantified the acute neuroapoptotic response to a single versus repeated exposure, and found age- and brain region-specific effects. We also found that repeated early exposures to ISO induced subtle, sex-specific disruptions to activity levels, motor coordination, anxiety-related behavior and social preference. Our findings provide evidence that repeated ISO exposures may induce behavioral disturbances that are subtle in nature following early repeated exposures to a single AASD.
Quantitative hydro-geophysical analysis of a complex structural karst aquifer in Eastern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alfy Mohamed El , Lashin Aref , Faraj Turki , Alataway Abed , Tarawneh Qassem , Al-Bassam Abdelaziz
Published: February 2019

The Umm er Radhuma (UER) Formation is a major karst aquifer in Saudi Arabia. This study investigated the hydraulic and petrophysical characteristics of the folded UER carbonate aquifer using integrated hydrological and geophysical logging datasets to understand its complex hydraulic setting as well as detect possible water flow. Petrophysical analysis showed that the UER aquifer has three zones with different lithologic and hydraulic properties. The upper zone attains the best properties with average values of 20%, >100 mD, 3.30 × 10−5–1.34 × 10−3 m/s, and 1.49 × 10−3–6.04 × 10−2 m2/s, with respect to effective porosity, permeability, hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity. The gamma-ray logs indicate a good fracture system near the upper zone of the UER Formation. Pumping test measurements of transmissivity, hydraulic conductivity and storage coefficients were matched with those from geophysical logs and found to be within the expected range for confined and leaky aquifers. Hydrogeological properties were mapped to detect possible groundwater flow in relation to the dominant structure. The underground water of the folded UER aquifer was forced along meandering flow patterns from W-E to SW-NE through the anticlinal axes. The integrated approach can be further used to enhance local aquifer models and improve strategies for identifying the most productive zones in similar aquifer systems.
A complex interaction between pre-harvest and post-harvest factors determines fresh-cut melon quality and aroma
Authors: Spadafora Natasha D. , Cocetta Giacomo , Cavaiuolo Marina , Bulgari Roberta , Dhorajiwala Rakhee , Ferrante Antonio , Spinardi Anna , Rogers Hilary J. , Müller Carsten T.
Published: February 2019

Melons are prized for their characteristic aroma, however, pre-harvest growth, stage of ripening at harvest, post-harvest processing and storage conditions lead to quality changes in fresh-cut fruit. We considered changes in metabolites and gene expression over 14 days storage to assess underlying mechanisms and identify potential quality markers. Overall, 99 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were detected and VOC profiles discriminated between two melon seasons, cut-size, storage temperatures and storage time, although season affected their discriminatory power. Abundance of two VOCs fell rapidly and was not associated with cut size, indicating their use as markers for early changes post-processing. Non-acetate to acetate ester ratio differed between the seasons and correlated with changes in alcohol acyl-transferase (CmAAT1) gene expression. Furthermore, CmAAT1 expression clustered with two ester VOCs that may be potential new products of this enzyme. Season also strongly affected post-harvest sugar content, most likely attributable to meteorological differences during growth. Storage temperature and cut size affected expression of transcription factors ERF71, ERF106, and TINY, whose expression generally rose during storage, probably related to increased stress. Thus, although time × temperature of storage are key factors, pre-harvest conditions and fruit processing impact significantly gene expression and aroma loss post-harvest.
Survival, growth and physiology of marine bivalve (Sinonovacula constricta) in long-term low-salt culture
Authors: Maoxiao Peng , Xiaojun Liu , Donghong Niu , Bo Ye , Tianyi Lan , Zhiguo Dong , Jiale Li
Published: February 2019

In this study, we investigated the possibility of rearing and breeding the razor clam (Sinonovacula constricta) in inland low salinity water or freshwater. Long-term low salinity (LS) rearing was performed for 3 months to determine the effects of LS on the survival rate, growth rate, and the activities of critical enzymes in juvenile S. constricta (JSC). The survival rate in the LS group was only 15.67% at the end of the LS rearing test. In the first month, the survival rate in the LS group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.001). The growth rate (shell length growth rate and weight gain rate) was significantly lower in the LS group than the control group in the first month (P < 0.001 for length and weight). However, the growth rates in the two groups differed little during the second and third months. The oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion rates by JSCs were significantly higher in the LS group than the control group during the first month, but they decreased gradually during the following 2 months. The Na+/K+ ATPase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly higher in the LS group than the control group during the first month, but they then decreased gradually until there were no significant differences between the groups. However, the aspartate aminotransferase activity was higher in the LS group than the control group during all 3 months. Most of the JSCs died due to LS but the survival of some JSCs suggests the possibility of breeding LS resistant or freshwater S. constricta.
Quasiparticle Properties under Interactions in Weyl and Nodal Line Semimetals
Authors: Kang Jing , Zou Jianfei , Li Kai , Yu Shun-Li , Shao Lu-Bing
Published: February 2019

The quasiparticle spectra of interacting Weyl and nodal-line semimetals on a cubic lattice are studied using the cluster perturbation theory. By tracking the spectral functions under interaction, we find that the Weyl points will move to and meet at a specific point in one Weyl semimetal model, while in the other Weyl semimetal model they are immobile. In the nodal-line semimetals, we find that the nodal line shrinks to a point and then disappears under interaction in one-nodal-line system. When we add another nodal line to this system, we find that the two nodal lines both shrink to specific points, but the disappearing processes of the two nodal lines are not synchronized. We argue that the nontrivial evolution of Weyl points and nodal lines under interaction is due to the presence of symmetry breaking order, e.g., a ferromagnetic moment, in the framework of mean field theory, whereas the stability of Weyl points under interaction is protected by symmetry. Among all these models, the spectral gap is finally opened when the interaction is strong enough.
Facile Surface Modification of Polyethylene Film via Spray-Assisted Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly of Graphene Oxide for Oxygen Barrier Properties
Authors: Heo Jiwoong , Choi Moonhyun , Hong Jinkee
Published: February 2019

The oxygen barrier properties are essential for the food packaging systems that preserve perishable food. In this research, the facile surface modification method for oxygen barrier properties is introduced by using spray assisted layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly. The nano-sized graphene oxide (GO−) multilayer films were developed and characterized. Positively charged amine-functionalized GO+ was synthesized using the negatively charged GO− dispersion, ethylenediamine, and 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide methiodide (EDC). Alternating layers of GO− and GO+ were deposited onto the flexible polyethylene (PE) substrate which has no intrinsic gas barrier properties. This method is able to modify surfaces which are challenging for the conventional dipping LbL method. The oxygen transmittance rate of coated PE film (3511.5 cc/m2·day) decreased significantly to 1091 cc/m2·day after a GO film with a thickness of only 60 nm was deposited. The light transmittance in the visible light range was not significantly decreased after coating of GO films, thus ensuring transparency for PE packaging applications.
Phylogeography of plastid DNA sequences suggests post-glacial southward demographic expansion and the existence of several glacial refugia for Araucaria angustifolia
Authors: Stefenon Valdir Marcos , Klabunde Gustavo , Lemos Rafael Plá Matielo , Rogalski Marcelo , Nodari Rubens Onofre
Published: February 2019

Despite the high diversity of the Southern South American environments, the patterns and processes driving both their species diversity and demographic history are still poorly known and are a challenging task. In this study, we evaluate plastid DNA sequences of the conifer species Araucaria angustifolia aiming to (i) assess the species genetic structure within its main range of occurrence, (ii) infer its population demographic history, looking for evidence of southward expansion, (iii) search for evidence of glacial refugia within the species distribution area and (iv) discuss some conservation and management strategies for this species. Twenty haplotypes were identified, revealing the presence of three distinct genetic groups across the geographic range of the species and structuring the populations into Northern, Central and Southern groups. Our results suggest the occurrence of post-glacial expansion of A. angustifolia towards the south, as well as the existence of at least three refugia within the species occurrence area. Testing the occurrence of historical demographic expansion, we suggest that genetic groups experienced fluctuations in effective size, associated to a structured distribution of populations. The identification of three genetic groups in this study corroborates the proposition of using the geographic distribution of A. angustifolia for selecting in situ conservation areas, for planning seed collection for ex situ conservation, as well as for the delineation of seed zones.
Microstructural damage sensitivity prediction using spatial statistics
Authors: Cameron B. C. , Tasan C. C.
Published: February 2019

The vast compositional space of metallic materials provides ample opportunity to design stronger, more ductile and cheaper alloys. However, the substantial complexity of deformation micro-mechanisms makes simulation-based prediction of microstructural performance exceedingly difficult. In absence of predictive tools, tedious experiments have to be conducted to screen properties. Here, we develop a purely empirical model to forecast microstructural performance in advance, bypassing these challenges. This is achieved by combining in situ deformation experiments with a novel methodology that utilizes n-point statistics and principle component analysis to extract key microstructural features. We demonstrate this approach by predicting crack nucleation in a complex dual-phase steel, achieving substantial predictive ability (84.8% of microstructures predicted to crack, actually crack), a substantial improvement upon the alternate simulation-based approaches. This significant accuracy illustrates the utility of this alternate approach and opens the door to a wide range of alloy design tools.
Protective effect of oxytocin on LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice
Authors: An Xiaona , Sun Xiaotong , Hou Yonghao , Yang Xiaomei , Chen Hongli , Zhang Peng , Wu Jianbo
Published: February 2019

Oxytocin (OT), a neurohypophyseal hormone synthesized in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the hypothalamus, has been reported to have an anti- inflammatory effect. However, its role in acute lung injury (ALI) has never been investigated. The aim of this study was to explore the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism action of OT on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI. Mice were treated with OT 30 min before the intraperitoneal injection of LPS. After 2 h, the effects of OT on lung histopathological changes, lung wet/dry (W/D) ratio, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, levels of inflammatory cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and expression of inflammation proteins were detected. The results showed that OT significantly reduced LPS-induced pathological injury, W/D ratio, MPO activity, and the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18 and IL-6. Further, OT also inhibited LPS-induced Toll-like receptor 4 expression and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome activation. OT receptor antagonist (L-368,899) was given 90 min before injecting OT to further demonstrate the role of OT in LPS-induced ALI. The results showed OT could not alleviate the aforementioned inflammatory reactions after administering L-368,899. In conclusion, the present results indicated that OT could reduce inflammatory responses of LPS-induced ALI.
A novel mechanism for the protection of embryonic stem cell derived tenocytes from inflammatory cytokine interleukin 1 beta
Authors: McClellan Alyce , Evans Richard , Sze Cheryl , Kan Shohei , Paterson Yasmin , Guest Deborah
Published: February 2019

Interleukin 1β (IL-1β) is upregulated following tendon injury. Here we demonstrate that in adult and fetal tenocytes IL-1β increases the expression of matrix metalloproteinases, tenascin-C and Sox9 and decreases the expression of scleraxis and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein. When cultured in 3-dimensional collagen gels adult and fetal tenocytes exposed to IL-1β have reduced contraction ability and generate tendon-like constructs with a lower storage modulus. In contrast, equine embryonic stem cell (ESC) derived tenocytes exposed to IL-1β exhibit no changes in gene expression and generate identical tendon-like constructs. We propose that ESC-derived tenocytes do not respond to IL-1β due to their low expression of interleukin 1 (IL-1) receptor 1 and high expression of the decoy receptor IL-1 receptor 2 and IL-1 receptor antagonist protein (IL1Ra). This may make ESC-derived tenocytes an advantageous source of cells for tissue regeneration and allow the development of novel pharmaceutical interventions to protect endogenous cells from inflammation.
Land carbon models underestimate the severity and duration of drought’s impact on plant productivity
Authors: Kolus Hannah R. , Huntzinger Deborah N. , Schwalm Christopher R. , Fisher Joshua B. , McKay Nicholas , Fang Yuanyuan , Michalak Anna M. , Schaefer Kevin , Wei Yaxing , Poulter Benjamin , Mao Jiafu , Parazoo Nicholas C. , Shi Xiaoying
Published: February 2019

The ability to accurately predict ecosystem drought response and recovery is necessary to produce reliable forecasts of land carbon uptake and future climate. Using a suite of models from the Multi-scale Synthesis and Terrestrial Model Intercomparison Project (MsTMIP), we assessed modeled net primary productivity (NPP) response to, and recovery from, drought events against a benchmark derived from tree ring observations between 1948 and 2008 across forested regions of the US and Europe. We find short lag times (0–6 months) between climate anomalies and modeled NPP response. Although models accurately simulate the direction of drought legacy effects (i.e. NPP decreases), projected effects are approximately four times shorter and four times weaker than observations suggest. This discrepancy between observed and simulated vegetation recovery from drought reveals a potential critical model deficiency. Since productivity is a crucial component of the land carbon balance, models that underestimate drought recovery time could overestimate predictions of future land carbon sink strength and, consequently, underestimate forecasts of atmospheric CO2.
Extensive epigenomic integration of the glucocorticoid response in primary human monocytes and in vitro derived macrophages
Authors: Wang Cheng , Nanni Luca , Novakovic Boris , Megchelenbrink Wout , Kuznetsova Tatyana , Stunnenberg Hendrik G. , Ceri Stefano , Logie Colin
Published: February 2019

Glucocorticoid receptor is a transcription factor that is ubiquitously expressed. Glucocorticoids are circadian steroids that regulate a wide range of bodily functions, including immunity. Here we report that synthetic glucocorticoids affect 1035 mRNAs in isolated healthy human blood monocytes but only 165 in the respective six day-old monocyte-derived macrophages. The majority of the glucocorticoid response in monocytes concerns genes that are dynamic upon monocyte to macrophage differentiation, whereby macrophage-like mRNA levels are often reached in monocytes within four hours of treatment. Concomitantly, over 5000 chromosomal H3K27ac regions undergo remodelling, of which 60% involve increased H3K27ac signal. We find that chromosomal glucocorticoid receptor binding sites correlate with positive but not with negative local epigenomic effects. To investigate further we assigned our data to topologically associating domains (TADs). This shows that about 10% of macrophage TADs harbour at least one GR binding site and that half of all the glucocorticoid-induced H3K27ac regions are confined to these TADs. Our analyses are therefore consistent with the notion that TADs naturally accommodate information from sets of distal glucocorticoid response elements.
Native mass spectrometry identifies an alternative DNA-binding pathway for BirA from Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Satiaputra Jiulia , Sternicki Louise M. , Hayes Andrew J. , Pukala Tara L. , Booker Grant W. , Shearwin Keith E. , Polyak Steven W.
Published: February 2019

An adequate supply of biotin is vital for the survival and pathogenesis of Staphylococcus aureus. The key protein responsible for maintaining biotin homeostasis in bacteria is the biotin retention protein A (BirA, also known as biotin protein ligase). BirA is a bi-functional protein that serves both as a ligase to catalyse the biotinylation of important metabolic enzymes, as well as a transcriptional repressor that regulates biotin biosynthesis, biotin transport and fatty acid elongation. The mechanism of BirA regulated transcription has been extensively characterized in Escherichia coli, but less so in other bacteria. Biotin-induced homodimerization of E. coli BirA (EcBirA) is a necessary prerequisite for stable DNA binding and transcriptional repression. Here, we employ a combination of native mass spectrometry, in vivo gene expression assays, site-directed mutagenesis and electrophoretic mobility shift assays to elucidate the DNA binding pathway for S. aureus BirA (SaBirA). We identify a mechanism that differs from that of EcBirA, wherein SaBirA is competent to bind DNA as a monomer both in the presence and absence of biotin and/or MgATP, allowing homodimerization on the DNA. Bioinformatic analysis demonstrated the SaBirA sequence used here is highly conserved amongst other S. aureus strains, implying this DNA-binding mechanism is widely employed.
Emergence of the East-Central-South-African genotype of Chikungunya virus in Brazil and the city of Rio de Janeiro may have occurred years before surveillance detection
Authors: Souza Thiago Moreno L. , Vieira Yasmine Rangel , Delatorre Edson , Barbosa-Lima Giselle , Luiz Raul Leal Faria , Vizzoni Alexandre , Jain Komal , Miranda Milene Mesquita , Bhuva Nishit , Gogarten Jan F. , Ng James , Thakkar Riddhi , Calheiros Andrea Surrage , Monteiro Ana Paula Teixeira , Bozza Patrícia T. , Bozza Fernando A. , Tschoeke Diogo A. , Leomil Luciana , Mendonça Marcos Cesar Lima de , Rodrigues Cintia Damasceno dos Santos , Torres Maria C. , Filippis Ana Maria Bispo de , Nogueira Rita Maria Ribeiro , Thompson Fabiano L. , Lemos Cristina , Durovni Betina , Cerbino-Neto José , Morel Carlos M. , Lipkin W. Ian , Mishra Nischay
Published: February 2019

Brazil, which is hyperendemic for dengue virus (DENV), has had recent Zika (ZIKV) and (CHIKV) Chikungunya virus outbreaks. Since March 2016, CHIKV is the arbovirus infection most frequently diagnosed in Rio de Janeiro. In the analysis of 1835 syndromic patients, screened by real time RT-PCR, 56.4% of the cases were attributed to CHIKV, 29.6% to ZIKV, and 14.1% to DENV-4. Sequence analyses of CHIKV from sixteen samples revealed that the East-Central-South-African (ECSA) genotype of CHIKV has been circulating in Brazil since 2013 [95% bayesian credible interval (BCI): 03/2012-10/2013], almost a year before it was detected by arbovirus surveillance program. Brazilian cases are related to Central African Republic sequences from 1980’s. To the best of our knowledge, given the available sequence published here and elsewhere, the ECSA genotype was likely introduced to Rio de Janeiro early on 2014 (02/2014; BCI: 07/2013-08/2014) through a single event, after primary circulation in the Bahia state at the Northestern Brazil in the previous year. The observation that the ECSA genotype of CHIKV was circulating undetected underscores the need for improvements in molecular methods for viral surveillance.
Development of highly inhomogeneous temperature profile within electrically heated alkali silicate glasses
Authors: McLaren Charles T. , Kopatz Craig , Smith Nicholas J. , Jain Himanshu
Published: February 2019

According to Joule’s well-known first law, application of electric field across a homogeneous solid should produce heat uniformly in proportion to the square of electrical current. Here we report strong departure from this expectation for common, homogeneous ionic solids such as alkali silicate glasses when subjected even to moderate fields (~100 V/cm). Unlike electronically conducting metals and semiconductors, with time the heating of ionically conducting glass becomes extremely inhomogeneous with the formation of a nanoscale alkali-depletion region, such that the glass melts near the anode, even evaporates, while remaining solid elsewhere. In situ infrared imaging shows and finite element analysis confirms localized temperatures more than thousand degrees above the remaining sample depending on whether the field is DC or AC. These observations unravel the origin of recently discovered electric field induced softening of glass. The observed highly inhomogeneous temperature profile point to the challenges for the application of Joule’s law to the electrical performance of glassy thin films, nanoscale devices, and similarly-scaled phenomena.
Direct measurement of topological interactions in polymers under shear using neutron spin echo spectroscopy
Authors: Kawecki Maciej , A. Adlmann Franz , Gutfreund Philipp , Falus Peter , Uhrig David , Gupta Sudipta , Farago Bela , Zolnierczuk Piotr , Cochran Malcom , Wolff Max
Published: February 2019

We present in-situ neutron spin echo measurements on an entangled polydimethylsiloxane melt under shear and demonstrate the ability to monitor nano-scale dynamics in flowing liquids. We report no changes in the topological interactions of the chains for shear rates approaching the inverse longest relaxation time. Further experiments following along this line will allow to systematically test the predictions of theories, like e.g. convective constraint release.
Bub1 kinase- and H2A phosphorylation-independent regulation of Shugoshin proteins under glucose-restricted conditions
Authors: Kobayashi Yuki , Kawashima Shigehiro A.
Published: February 2019

Shugoshin family proteins are involved in various aspects of chromatin regulations, such as chromosome segregation, chromatin structure, and gene expression. In growing yeast and mammalian cells, C-terminal phosphorylation of histone H2A by Bub1 kinase is essential for the localization of Shugoshin proteins to chromatin. Here, we show that in stationary-phase cells, Bub1-mediated H2A phosphorylation is not necessary for chromatin localization of the Shugoshin paralog Sgo2 in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, or for Sgo2-dependent suppression of gene expression in subtelomeric regions. The conserved C-terminal basic domain of Sgo2, which directly binds with phosphorylated H2A, is also dispensable for the localization of Sgo2 to chromatin at stationary phase. Instead, we found that the conserved N-terminal coiled-coil domain and the uncharacterized medial region of Sgo2 are required for Bub1-independent localization of Sgo2. Moreover, Set2-mediated H3K36 methylation was important for the regulation. Intriguingly, the chromatin localization of Sgo2 in the absence of Bub1 was also observed when cells were grown in low-glucose medium. These findings suggest a novel mechanism between nutrient availability and regulation of chromatin by Shugoshin proteins.
A reduced concentration of brain interstitial amino acids is associated with depression in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients
Authors: Kofler Mario , Schiefecker Alois Josef , Gaasch Maxime , Sperner-Unterweger Barbara , Fuchs Dietmar , Beer Ronny , Ferger Boris , Rass Verena , Hackl Werner , Rhomberg Paul , Pfausler Bettina , Thomé Claudius , Schmutzhard Erich , Helbok Raimund
Published: February 2019

The amino-acids tryptophan, phenylalanine and tyrosine seem to play an important role in the pathophysiology of depressive disorders. We measured daily brain extracellular levels of these amino-acids using cerebral microdialysis (CMD) and high performance liquid chromatography in 26 consecutive subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients and associated them with the presence of depressive disorders. Patients were grouped as follows: medical history of depression (prior to SAH), antidepressant intake 12 months after SAH (but not before), or neither. CMD-tryptophan, CMD-phenylalanine and CMD-tyrosine levels were significantly lower in patients with preexisting depressive disorders compared to those without depression (p < 0.01). Disease severity and SAH-related complications were not associated with amino-acid concentrations. We found a positive correlation between nutritionally administered and brain interstitial levels of tryptophan and phenylalanine in non-depressed patients (R = 0.26 and R = 0.24, p < 0.05), which was not present in patients with preexisting depression (p > 0.1). In conclusion, brain interstitial levels of tryptophan, phenylalanine and tyrosine measured in the context of the clinical management of SAH were significantly decreased in patients with a medical history of depression. This study supports the hypothesis that the availability of these neurotransmitter precursor amino-acids in the human brain may play an important role in the pathophysiology of depressive disorders.
Effects of naphthalene on soil fauna abundance and enzyme activity in the subalpine forest of western Sichuan, China
Authors: Liu Yuwei , Yang Fan , Yang Wanqin , Wu Fuzhong , Xu Zhenfeng , Liu Yang , Zhang Li , Yue Kai , Ni Xiangyin , Lan Liying , Chen Ya , Tan Bo
Published: February 2019

Naphthalene has been widely used to study the role of soil fauna, but its potential non-target effects on soil enzyme activity remain unknown in subalpine forests. We added naphthalene for two years and determined the effect of such additions on the abundance of soil fauna and soil enzyme activities (β-glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase, invertase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, leucine arylamidase, urease, nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase) in a subalpine forest. Naphthalene could efficiently suppress the individual density and population of soil fauna in situ. The individual density and number of groups were decreased by 72.6–84.8% and 15.0–28.0%, respectively. Naphthalene significantly affected the activities of β-glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase, polyphenol oxidase, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, leucine arylamidase and nitrite reductase and the activity increased in the first litter peak of naphthalene addition, and decreased at the later. The activities of β-glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, leucine arylamidase and nitrite reductase showed a negative correlation with the soil microbial PLFAs. Conversely, the activities of invertase, urease and nitrate reductase were positively correlated with the soil microbial PLFAs. Our results suggest that naphthalene is an effective method to reduce soil fauna in subalpine forest. The enzyme activity was influenced by soil fauna and microbial PLFAs.
A comparison of mid-infrared spectral regions on accuracy of tissue classification
Authors: Mittal Shachi , Bhargava Rohit
Published: February 2019

Infrared (IR) spectroscopic imaging, utilizing both the molecular and structural disease signatures, enables extensive profiling of tumors and their microenvironments.
O2 formation in cold environments
Authors: Pezzella Marco , Meuwly Markus
Published: February 2019

Oxygen recombination in side amorphous solid water.
Selective synthesis of 4-hydroxyisophorone and 4-ketoisophorone by fungal peroxygenases
Authors: Aranda Carmen , Municoy Martí , Guallar Víctor , Kiebist Jan , Scheibner Katrin , Ullrich René , del Río José C. , Hofrichter Martin , Martínez Angel T. , Gutiérrez Ana
Published: February 2019

Some fungal peroxygenases (UPOs) selectively oxidize α-isophorone to 4-hydroxyisophorone (4HIP) and 4-ketoisophorone (4KIP) while others are less selective or unable.
Intermediate product regulation over tandem catalysts for one-pass conversion of syngas to ethanol
Authors: Zhang Yongkang , Ding Chuanmin , Wang Junwen , Jia Yanming , Xue Yanan , Gao Zhiting , Yu Bo , Gao Bize , Zhang Kan , Liu Ping
Published: February 2019

Selective conversion of syngas (CO/H2) to ethanol is an attractive but challenging target.
Calcium formamidinate derivatives by hydride insertion of carbodiimides
Authors: Dyall Joshua , Hill Michael S. , Mahon Mary F. , Teh Luke , Wilson Andrew S. S.
Published: February 2019

Insertion reactions of N,N′-dialkyl and N,N′-diaryl carbodiimides with a dimeric calcium hydride provide formamidinate derivatives whose structures on the steric demands of the carbodiimide reagent.
Rapid immunodiagnostics of multiple viral infections in an acoustic microstreaming device with serum and saliva samples
Authors: Garg Neha , Boyle Dylan , Randall Arlo , Teng Andy , Pablo Jozelyn , Liang Xiaowu , Camerini David , Lee Abraham P.
Published: February 2019

There is a need to screen multiple infections simultaneously rather than one infection at a time to improve the quality of healthcare.
Astemizole-based turn-on fluorescent probes for imaging hERG potassium channel
Authors: Zhang Xiaomeng , Liu Tingting , Wang Beilei , Gao Yuqi , Liu Pan , Li Minyong , Du Lupei
Published: February 2019

Based on the scaffold of astemizole, three novel turn-on fluorescent probes (N1–N3) for human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) potassium channel were developed herein.
Enhanced fluorescence quantum yield of syndiotactic side-chain TPE polymers via Rh-catalyzed carbene polymerization: influence of the substitution density and spacer length
Authors: Li Xiao , Sun Yuhao , Chen Jian , Wu Zhongying , Cheng Pin , Li Qian , Fang Jianglin , Chen Dongzhong
Published: February 2019

The fluorescence quantum yields of the TPE-based C1 polymers also increase with the shortened spacer lengths and further improve by about 20% as compared with the corresponding C2 polyacrylate counterparts.
A femtosecond laser-induced superhygrophobic surface: beyond superhydrophobicity and repelling various complex liquids
Authors: Xi Min , Yong Jiale , Chen Feng , Yang Qing , Hou Xun
Published: February 2019

A superhygrophobic surface microstructure that can strongly repel various complex liquids is prepared on a PTFE surface by femtosecond laser treatment.
Enrichment and separation of steroidal saponins from the fibrous roots of Ophiopogon japonicus using macroporous adsorption resins
Authors: Zhou Yi-Feng , Wang Li-Ling , Chen Li-Chun , Liu Tie-bing , Sha Ru-Yi , Mao Jian-Wei
Published: February 2019

In this study, a simple and effective strategy for the enrichment of total steroidal saponins (TSS) from the fibrous roots of Ophiopogon japonicus (L. f.) Ker-Gawl. (FROJ) using macroporous adsorption resin was systematically developed.
Analysis and optimization of alloyed Al-p+ region and rear contacts for highly efficient industrial n-type silicon solar cells
Authors: Wei Yi , Jiang Xue , Lin Yiren , Yang Xichuan , Li Guohui , Liu Xuyang , Li Ping , Liu Aimin
Published: February 2019

This paper aims to develop high quality screen-printed Al emitters and improve the interface condition of rear contacts in industrial silicon solar cells.
tert-Butylphenylthiazoles with an oxadiazole linker: a novel orally bioavailable class of antibiotics exhibiting antibiofilm activity
Authors: Kotb Ahmed , Abutaleb Nader S. , Hagras Mohamed , Bayoumi Ashraf , Moustafa Mahmoud M. , Ghiaty Adel , Seleem Mohamed N. , Mayhoub Abdelrahman S.
Published: February 2019

The structure–activity and structure–kinetic relationships of a new tert-butylphenylthiazole series with oxadiazole linkers were conducted with the objective of obtaining a new orally available antibacterial compounds.
Novel triangular silver nanoparticle modified membranes for enhanced antifouling performance
Authors: Ahmad Jabran , Wen Xianghua , Li Fengjuan , Wang Bo
Published: February 2019

Enhanced antibacterial, anti-adhesion and fouling mitigation strategy imparted by shape dependent membrane modification via anisotropic triangular silver nanoparticles.
Photo-responsive heterojunction nanosheets of reduced graphene oxide for photo-detective flexible energy devices
Authors: Zong Lu , Li Xiankai , Zhu Luting , You Jun , Li Zehui , Gao Hongwei , Li Mingjie , Li Chaoxu
Published: February 2019

Ultrasonication-assisted delamination and assembly of transition metal dichalcogenides with graphene for heterogeneous nanosheets used in photo-sensitive wearable energy devices.
Self-floating monodisperse microparticles with a nano-engineered surface composition and structure for highly efficient solar-driven water evaporation
Authors: Zhang Xiangcheng , Wang Xiaoning , Wu Winston Duo , Chen Xiao Dong , Wu Zhangxiong
Published: February 2019

Self-floating monodisperse microparticles with integrated components, micro-wrinkled surfaces and surface-enriched Cu nanoparticles are synthesized. They are excellent for solar water evaporation under the irradiation of one sun.
Organic polymorphs with fluorescence switching: direct evidence for mechanical and thermal modulation of excited state transitions
Authors: Jiang Shan , Wang Jiayu , Qi Qingkai , Qian Jingyu , Xu Bin , Li Fangfei , Zhou Qiang , Tian Wenjing
Published: February 2019

Herein, we provide a direct observation of the modulation of the excited state transition under mechanical and thermal stimuli in the solid state by two organic polymorphs based on a tetraphenylethene derivative (APMOB).
Delineating the critical role of acid additives in Mn-catalysed C–H bond functionalisation processes
Authors: Hammarback L. Anders , Robinson Alan , Lynam Jason M. , Fairlamb Ian J. S.
Published: February 2019

Acids play positive and negative roles in Mn-catalysed C–H funtionalisation reactions, from substrate sensitivity to catalyst longevity.
A mononuclear tantalum catalyst with a peroxocarbonate ligand for olefin epoxidation in compressed CO2
Authors: Ma Wenbao , Qiao Yunxiang , Theyssen Nils , Zhou Qingqing , Li Difan , Ding Bingjie , Wang Dongqi , Hou Zhenshan
Published: February 2019

A mononuclear tantalum complex bonded to a peroxocarbonate ligand has been proved to be particularly important in the epoxidation reactions.
A viscosity-sensitive iridium(iii) probe for lysosomal microviscosity quantification and blood viscosity detection in diabetic mice
Authors: Zhang Pingyu , Chen Haijie , Huang Huaiyi , Qiu Kangqiang , Zhang Changxuan , Chao Hui , Zhang Qianling
Published: February 2019

A novel viscosity-sensitive iridium probe enables the detection of cancer and diabetes.
Metal–organic framework derived small sized metal sulfide nanoparticles anchored on N-doped carbon plates for high-capacity energy storage
Authors: Zhai Zi-Bo , Huang Ke-Jing , Wu Xu , Hu Han , Xu Yun , Chai Rui-Min
Published: February 2019

ZnS nanoparticles embedded in N-doped mesoporous carbon plates are prepared and exhibit high energy storage performance.
CoSe2/CdS-diethylenetriamine coupled with P clusters for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Haiyu , Jin Zhiliang , Hao Xuqiang
Published: February 2019

A novel binary solution (DETA/H2O) reaction for preparing composite catalyst composed of CdS nanoparticles grown on CoSe2 nanobelts, which exhibits excellent catalytic activity for a hydrogen evolution reaction.
Water-assisted proton conductivity of two highly stable imidazole multi-carboxylate-based MOFs
Authors: Qin Yin , Li Yilin , Guo Kaimeng , Tang Huabiao , Hou Lifen , Li Gang
Published: February 2019

The proton conduction and proton mechanisms of two highly stable imidazole multi-carboxylate-based MOFs have been investigated and discussed.
De-symmetrizing periodically grafted amphiphilic copolymers: design, synthesis and generation of Janus folded chains
Authors: Sarkar Ramkrishna , Gowd E. Bhoje , Ramakrishnan S.
Published: February 2019

The mutual immiscibility between the three segments, namely backbone HC, and pendant PEG and FC segments, causes zigzag folding of the polymer such that FC segments lie on one side and PEG on the other, thereby generating Janus-type folded chains.
Efficient electroluminescent hybridized local and charge-transfer host materials with small singlet–triplet splitting to enhance exciton utilization efficiency: excited state transition configuration
Authors: Jayabharathi Jayaraman , Thanikachalam Venugopal , Sundari Ganapathy Abirama
Published: February 2019

CDDPI:Ir(ppy)3 exhibits higher efficiencies: L = 8812 cd m−2; ηex = 19.0%; ηc = 27.5 cd A−1; ηp = 33.0 lm W−1 at 2.7 V.
Effect of on-line stretching treatment on the structure and performance of polyvinyl chloride hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Lu Fang , Liu Hailiang , Xiao Changfa , Wang Xinya , Chen Kaikai , Huang Heng
Published: February 2019

In this work, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) hollow fiber membranes were prepared via a melt-spinning method and on-line stretching treatment.
Design, synthesis and biological activity evaluation of benzoate compounds as local anesthetics
Authors: Zou Huiying , Chen Guangying , Zhou Shiyang
Published: February 2019

Tetracaine and pramocaine were used as the lead compounds to design benzoate compounds.
In vitroandin vivoevaluations of the fully porous Ti6Al4V acetabular cups fabricated by a sintering technique
Authors: Li Ji , Li Wei , Li Zhongli , Wang Yuxing , Li Ruiling , Tu Jiangping , Jin Gong
Published: February 2019

The fully porous Ti6Al4V cup fabricated by the sintered technique showed high porosity, large pore size with good mechanical properties. It may be effective in achievingin vivostability after the total hip arthroplasty.
Topographical and mechanical properties of liposome surfaces harboring Na,K-ATPase by means of atomic force microscopy
Authors: Sebinelli H. G. , Borin I. A. , Ciancaglini P. , Bolean M.
Published: February 2019

In this study, we obtained unprecedented AFM images of the Na,K-ATPase (NKA) pump after being reconstituted into DPPC and DPPC:DPPE liposomes.
Superior carbon belts from Spirogyra for efficient extracellular electron transfer and sustainable microbial energy harvesting
Authors: Shi Yu-Tong , Yu Yang-Yang , Xu Zi-Ai , Lian Jiabiao , Yong Yang-Chun
Published: February 2019

Superior carbon belts from Spirogyra were explored for highly efficient extracellular electron transfer and microbial energy harvesting.
Self-reductive synthesis of MXene/Na0.55Mn1.4Ti0.6O4hybrids for high-performance symmetric lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zou Guodong , Ge Bingcheng , Zhang Hao , Zhang Qingrui , Fernandez Carlos , Li Wen , Huang Jianyu , Peng Qiuming
Published: February 2019

A new MXene/Na0.55Mn1.4Ti0.6O4hybrid with bifunctional properties is synthesized by a self-reduction method, providing a high energy density for symmetric LIBs.
Apc gene suppresses intracranial aneurysm formation and rupture through inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway mediated inflammatory response
Authors: Lai Xian-Liang , Deng Zhi-Feng , Zhu Xin-Gen , Chen Zhi-Hua
Published: February 2019

Background: Intracranial aneurysm (IA) is a critical acquired cerebrovascular disease that may cause subarachnoid hemorrhage, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)-mediated inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of IA. Adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) gene is a tumor suppressor gene associated with both familial and sporadic cancer. Herein, the purpose of our study is to validate effect of Apc gene on IA formation and rupture by regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway mediated inflammatory response. Methods: We collected IA specimens (from incarceration of IA) and normal cerebral arteries (from surgery of traumatic brain injury) to examine expression of Apc and the NF-κB signaling pathway related factors (NF-κB p65 and IκBα). ELISA was used to determine levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6. IA model was established in rats, and Apc-siRNA was treated to verify effect of Apc on IA formation and rupture. Next, regulation of Apc on the NF-κB signaling pathway was investigated. Results: Reduced expression of Apc and IκBα, and increased expression of NF-κB p65 were found in IA tissues. MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 exhibited higher levels in unruptured and ruptured IA, which suggested facilitated inflammatory responses. In addition, the IA rats injected with Apc-siRNA showed further enhanced activation of NF-κB signaling pathway, and up-regulated levels of MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MMP-2, and MMP-9 as well as extent of p65 phosphorylation in IA. Conclusion: Above all, Apc has the potential role to attenuate IA formation and rupture by inhibiting inflammatory response through repressing the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Standardized Tests and the Diagnosis of Speech Sound Disorders
Authors: Fabiano-Smith Leah
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this tutorial is to provide speech-language pathologists with the knowledge and tools to (a) evaluate standardized tests of articulation and phonology and (b) utilize criterion-referenced approaches to assessment in the absence of psychometrically strong standardized tests.

Method

Relevant literature on psychometrics of standardized tests used to diagnose speech sound disorders in children is discussed. Norm-referenced and criterion-referenced approaches to assessment are reviewed, and a step-by-step guide to a criterion-referenced assessment is provided. Published criterion references are provided as a quick and easy resource guide for professionals.

Results

Few psychometrically strong standardized tests exist for the evaluation of speech sound disorders for monolingual and bilingual populations. The use of criterion-referenced testing is encouraged to avoid diagnostic pitfalls.

Discussion

Speech-language pathologists who increase their use of criterion-referenced measures and decrease their use of standardized tests will arrive at more accurate diagnoses of speech sound disorders.
It Might Not Be “Just Artic”: The Case for the Single Sound Error
Authors: Farquharson Kelly
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore the ways in which children with mild speech sound disorders (SSDs)—that is, single sound errors—may be at risk for difficulties with phonological awareness, decoding, spelling, and social–emotional well-being.

Conclusions

SSDs comprise a group of children who have difficulty in consistently and correctly producing 1 or more phonemes in their ambient language. Presently, there is a concerning trend with respect to service provision for children who have only a few—or only 1—sounds in error. That is, these children may not receive services at all. This practice is problematic, because it assumes that children with a single sound in error are not at risk for or experiencing any related educational difficulties. However, research supports connections between SSDs, including single sound errors, and decoding, spelling, and social–emotional deficits. This article aims to make the case for the single sound error—sometimes it is not “just artic.” Clinical recommendations for assessment, treatment, and advocacy are included.