bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unravelling the Mystery of Lunar Anomalous Craters Using Radar and Infrared Observations
Authors: Fa Wenzhe , Eke Vincent R.
Published: July 2018

In Miniature Radio Frequency (Mini‐RF) radar images, anomalous craters are those having a high circular polarization ratio (CPR) in their interior but not exterior to their rims. Previous studies found that most CPR‐anomalous craters contain permanently shadowed regions and that their population is overabundant in the polar regions. However, there is considerable controversy in the interpretation of these signals: Both water ice deposits and rocks/surface roughness have been proposed as the source of the elevated CPR values. To resolve this controversy, we have systematically analyzed >4,000 impact craters with diameters between 2.5 and 24 km in the Mini‐RF radar image and Diviner rock abundance (RA) map. We first constructed two controlled orthorectified global mosaics using 6,818 tracks of Mini‐RF raw data and then analyzed the correlations between radar CPR and surface slope, RA, and depth/diameter ratios of impact craters. Our results show that CPR‐anomalous craters are distributed relatively uniformly across the lunar surface, with no apparent difference in CPR between the polar, potentially icy, and nonpolar, not icy, craters. Most CPR‐anomalous craters are relatively young with a large depth/diameter ratio, and they actually represent an intermediate stage of crater evolution. Comparison with a two‐component radar scattering model suggests that rocks and surface roughness are major contributors to the observed CPR values. Using craters of 4.7–22 km in diameter with known ages, we find that craters spend up to 120 Ma with a high exterior RA, and ∼3 Ga in the CPR‐anomalous phase.
A molecular neuromorphic network device consisting of single-walled carbon nanotubes complexed with polyoxometalate
Authors: Tanaka Hirofumi , Akai-Kasaya Megumi , TermehYousefi Amin , Hong Liu , Fu Lingxiang , Tamukoh Hakaru , Tanaka Daisuke , Asai Tetsuya , Ogawa Takuji
Published: July 2018

In contrast to AI hardware, neuromorphic hardware is based on neuroscience, wherein constructing both spiking neurons and their dense and complex networks is essential to obtain intelligent abilities. However, the integration density of present neuromorphic devices is much less than that of human brains. In this report, we present molecular neuromorphic devices, composed of a dynamic and extremely dense network of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) complexed with polyoxometalate (POM). We show experimentally that the SWNT/POM network generates spontaneous spikes and noise. We propose electron-cascading models of the network consisting of heterogeneous molecular junctions that yields results in good agreement with the experimental results. Rudimentary learning ability of the network is illustrated by introducing reservoir computing, which utilises spiking dynamics and a certain degree of network complexity. These results indicate the possibility that complex functional networks can be constructed using molecular devices, and contribute to the development of neuromorphic devices.
Predicting marsh vulnerability to sea-level rise using Holocene relative sea-level data
Authors: Horton Benjamin P. , Shennan Ian , Bradley Sarah L. , Cahill Niamh , Kirwan Matthew , Kopp Robert E. , Shaw Timothy A.
Published: July 2018

Tidal marshes rank among Earth’s vulnerable ecosystems, which will retreat if future rates of relative sea-level rise (RSLR) exceed marshes’ ability to accrete vertically. Here, we assess the limits to marsh vulnerability by analyzing >780 Holocene reconstructions of tidal marsh evolution in Great Britain. These reconstructions include both transgressive (tidal marsh retreat) and regressive (tidal marsh expansion) contacts. The probability of a marsh retreat was conditional upon Holocene rates of RSLR, which varied between −7.7 and 15.2 mm/yr. Holocene records indicate that marshes are nine times more likely to retreat than expand when RSLR rates are ≥7.1 mm/yr. Coupling estimated probabilities of marsh retreat with projections of future RSLR suggests a major risk of tidal marsh loss in the twenty-first century. All of Great Britain has a >80% probability of a marsh retreat under Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 by 2100, with areas of southern and eastern England achieving this probability by 2040.
Single-pot glycoprotein biosynthesis using a cell-free transcription-translation system enriched with glycosylation machinery
Authors: Jaroentomeechai Thapakorn , Stark Jessica C. , Natarajan Aravind , Glasscock Cameron J. , Yates Laura E. , Hsu Karen J. , Mrksich Milan , Jewett Michael C. , DeLisa Matthew P.
Published: July 2018

The emerging discipline of bacterial glycoengineering has made it possible to produce designer glycans and glycoconjugates for use as vaccines and therapeutics. Unfortunately, cell-based production of homogeneous glycoproteins remains a significant challenge due to cell viability constraints and the inability to control glycosylation components at precise ratios in vivo. To address these challenges, we describe a novel cell-free glycoprotein synthesis (CFGpS) technology that seamlessly integrates protein biosynthesis with asparagine-linked protein glycosylation. This technology leverages a glyco-optimized Escherichia coli strain to source cell extracts that are selectively enriched with glycosylation components, including oligosaccharyltransferases (OSTs) and lipid-linked oligosaccharides (LLOs). The resulting extracts enable a one-pot reaction scheme for efficient and site-specific glycosylation of target proteins. The CFGpS platform is highly modular, allowing the use of multiple distinct OSTs and structurally diverse LLOs. As such, we anticipate CFGpS will facilitate fundamental understanding in glycoscience and make possible applications in on demand biomanufacturing of glycoproteins.
Collapse and rescue of cooperation in evolving dynamic networks
Authors: Akçay Erol
Published: July 2018

The evolutionary dynamics of social traits depend crucially on the social structure of a population. The effects of social structure on social behaviors are well-studied, but relatively little is known about how social structure itself coevolves with social traits. Here, I study such coevolution with a simple yet realistic model of within-group social structure where social connections are either inherited from a parent or made randomly. I show that cooperation evolves when individuals make few random connections, but the presence of cooperation selects for increased rates of random connections, which leads to its collapse. Inherent costs of social connections can prevent this negative feedback, but these costs can negate some or all of the aggregate benefits of cooperation. Exogenously maintained social inheritance can mitigate the latter problem and allow cooperation to increase the average fitness of a population. These results illustrate how coevolutionary dynamics can constrain the long-term persistence of cooperation.
Characterization of a ripening-related transcription factor FcNAC1 from Fragaria chiloensis fruit
Authors: Carrasco-Orellana C. , Stappung Y. , Mendez-Yañez A. , Allan A. C. , Espley R. V. , Plunkett B. J. , Moya-Leon M. A. , Herrera R.
Published: July 2018

Fragaria chiloensis is a strawberry endemic from Chile with attractive white-pink fruit, pleasant aroma and taste. However, this fruit has a limited post-harvest period due to fast softening. Several transcription factors (TFs) are involved in the regulation of fruit ripening, and members of the NAC family have been implicated in cell wall remodeling. FcNAC1 was isolated from F. chiloensis fruit, coding a protein of 332 amino acid residues and displaying a characteristic NAC domain at the N terminus. FcNAC1 protein showed nuclear localization. An increase in transcript level was observed during ripening. A sequence of 1488 bp of FcNAC1 promoter was obtained. In silico analysis identified cis elements able to respond to some hormones and Secondary wall NAC binding elements (SNBE), and responding to auxin and ABA. A structural model of FcNAC1 provided evidence for interaction with DNA sequences containing SNBE, while a dual luciferase assay confirmed the transcriptional activation by FcNAC1 of the promoter of FcPL, a gene involved in cell wall remodeling in F. chiloensis fruit. The results suggest the participation of FcNAC1 during ripening development of strawberry fruit, by regulating pectin metabolism during softening.
Structural basis for cross-reactivity and conformation fluctuation of the major beech pollen allergen Fag s 1
Authors: Moraes Adolfo H. , Asam Claudia , Almeida Fabio C. L. , Wallner Michael , Ferreira Fatima , Valente Ana Paula
Published: July 2018

Fag s 1 is a member of the Pathogen Related protein family 10 (PR-10) and can elicit cross-reaction with IgE antibodies produced against the birch pollen allergen Bet v 1. The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) structure of Fag s 1 is presented along with its dynamic properties. It shares 66% identity with Bet v 1 and exhibits the expected three α-helices and seven β-sheets arranged as a semi-beta barrel and exposing the residues mapped as the Bet v 1 IgE epitope. The structural dynamics of Fag s 1 were monitored on the fast and intermediate timescales, using relaxation rates. The complex dynamics of Fag s 1 are closely related to the internal cavity, and they modulate IgE and ligand binding.
First data of Neandertal bird and carnivore exploitation in the Cantabrian Region (Axlor; Barandiaran excavations; Dima, Biscay, Northern Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Gómez-Olivencia Asier , Sala Nohemi , Núñez-Lahuerta Carmen , Sanchis Alfred , Arlegi Mikel , Rios-Garaizar Joseba
Published: July 2018

Neandertals were top predators who basically relied on middle- to large-sized ungulates for dietary purposes, but there is growing evidence that supports their consumption of plants, leporids, tortoises, marine resources, carnivores and birds. The Iberian Peninsula has provided the most abundant record of bird exploitation for meat in Europe, starting in the Middle Pleistocene. However, the bird and carnivore exploitation record was hitherto limited to the Mediterranean area of the Iberian Peninsula. Here we present the first evidence of bird and carnivore exploitation by Neandertals in the Cantabrian region. We have found cut-marks in two golden eagles, one raven, one wolf and one lynx remain from the Mousterian levels of Axlor. The obtaining of meat was likely the primary purpose of the cut-marks on the golden eagle and lynx remains. Corvids, raptors, felids and canids in Axlor could have likely acted as commensals of the Neandertals, scavenging upon the carcasses left behind by these hunter-gatherers. This could have brought them closer to Neandertal groups who could have preyed upon them. These new results provide additional information on their dietary scope and indicate a more complex interaction between Neandertals and their environment.
Distinct Aqueous Humour Cytokine Profiles of Patients with Pachychoroid Neovasculopathy and Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Terao Nobuhiro , Koizumi Hideki , Kojima Kentaro , Yamagishi Tetsuya , Yamamoto Yuji , Yoshii Kengo , Kitazawa Koji , Hiraga Asako , Toda Munetoyo , Kinoshita Shigeru , Sotozono Chie , Hamuro Junji
Published: July 2018

This study investigated the pathophysiological features of pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) by analysing and comparing cytokine profiles in aqueous humour (AH) collected from 18 PNV, 18 nAMD and 11 control patients. Responses to intravitreal injection of aflibercept were also analysed in the PNV and nAMD groups. In the PNV group, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A was significantly lower than in the nAMD group (p = 0.03) but was almost identical to that in the control group (p = 0.86). The nAMD group showed positive correlations between interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 (r = 0.68, p = 0.002) and IL-8 and MCP-1 (r = 0.68, p = 0.002). In the nAMD group, eyes with dry maculae one month after the first aflibercept injection showed significantly lower VEGF-A and placental growth factor (PlGF) at baseline than those with wet maculae (p = 0.02 for both). However, there was no significant difference between dry and wet maculae in the PNV group. The results suggest that angiogenic factors and proinflammatory cytokines may play the distinct roles in the pathogenesis of PNV and nAMD.
Angelica gigas Nakai and Decursin Downregulate Myc Expression to Promote Cell Death in B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Kim Eungyoung , Nam Jehyun , Chang Woochul , Zulfugarov Ismayil S. , Okhlopkova Zhanna M. , Olennikov Daniil , Chirikova Nadezhda K. , Kim Sang-Woo
Published: July 2018

Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) is an oriental traditional medicine to treat anemia, dysmenorrhea, and migraine. However, its anti-lymphoma effect is yet to be tested. Here, we demonstrated that AGN and its major component decursin target Myc to suppress lymphomagenesis in vitro and in vivo. AGN inhibited cell viability in multiple B lymphoma cells, while sparing normal splenocytes and bone marrow cells. Increased cleaved PARP level and caspase 3/7 activity and the repression of survival-promoting AKT/mTOR and MAPK pathways downstream of BCR, were responsible for the pro-apoptotic effects of AGN. We found that Myc, a prominent downstream target of these signaling pathways, contributes to AGN-induced cell death. Moreover, co-treatment with AGN and a Myc inhibitor, JQ1 or 10058-F4 yielded synergistic cytotoxic activities against cancer cells with markedly reduced Myc expression. AGN downregulated Myc expression and suppressed tumorigenesis in Eμ-myc transgenic mice. The proapoptotic activities of AGN were recapitulated by decursin, indicating that the anti-tumor effect of AGN was mainly caused by decursin. These findings suggest that AGN and decursin possess potent anti-lymphoma activity, and combination therapies with AGN/decursin and a Myc inhibitor to target Myc more efficiently could be a valuable avenue to explore in the treatment of B-cell lymphoma.
Effect of ABCB1 genetic polymorphisms on the transport of rivaroxaban in HEK293 recombinant cell lines
Authors: Sennesael Anne-Laure , Panin Nadtha , Vancraeynest Christelle , Pochet Lionel , Spinewine Anne , Haufroid Vincent , Elens Laure
Published: July 2018

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) are substrates for the ABCB1 transporter (also called P-glycoprotein), an active efflux pump. ABCB1 polymorphisms have been previously reported to influence the pharmacokinetics of several drugs such as immunosuppressants and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Recently, in vivo studies have suggested that genetic variants might contribute to the inter-individual variability in DOAC plasma concentrations. Therefore, we evaluated the in vitro effect of the most common coding ABCB1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), 1236 C > T-2677G > T-3435C > T, and the coding ABCB1 1199 G > A SNP on the transport activity towards rivaroxaban. HEK293 cells were transfected to overexpress the ABCB1 wild-type (1236C-2677G-3435C, 1199 G) or variant proteins (1236C-2677G-3435T, 1236T-2677T-3435T or 1199 A). ABCB1 expression decreased the intracellular accumulation of rivaroxaban, when compared to control cells. This confirms the involvement of ABCB1 in the active transport of rivaroxaban. However, the ABCB1 1236 C > T-2677G > T-3435C > T and 1199 G > A SNPs had no significant influence on the intracellular accumulation of rivaroxaban when compared to the wild-type protein. These results suggest that the ABCB1 coding SNPs investigated in the present study are unlikely to contribute to the inter-individual variability in rivaroxaban plasma concentrations.
Effects of gadolinium on cardiac mechanosensitivity in whole isolated swine hearts
Authors: Zhang Hanyu , Walcott Gregory P. , Rogers Jack M.
Published: July 2018

Mechanical stimulation can elicit electrical activation of the heart. This mechanosensitivity can start life-threatening arrhythmias (commotio cordis) or terminate them (precordial thump). Mechanosensitivity may also be involved in arrhythmogenesis in other settings. Stretch-activated ion channels (SACs) are thought to be important in mechanosensitivity and a number of agents that block them have been identified. Such agents could potentially be used as tools in experimental investigation of mechanosensitivity. However, studies using them in intact-heart preparations have yielded inconsistent results. In the present study, we used isolated, perfused hearts from 25–35 kg pigs and a computer-controlled device that repeatably delivered focal mechanical stimuli. The concentration-dependent ability of the SAC blocker gadolinium to suppress mechanical activation was assessed by the success rate of mechanical stimulation and by the delay between successful mechanical stimulation and electrical activation. In six hearts, perfusate was recirculated. In an additional six hearts, perfusate was not recirculated to prevent gadolinium from forming complexes with metabolic waste and possibly precipitating. Gadolinium did not suppress mechanically-induced activation. Although gadolinium has been shown to be an effective SAC blocker in isolated cells, using it to probe the role of mechanical stimulation in whole heart preparations should be done with great caution.
Targeting a Reticulocyte Binding Protein and Duffy Binding Protein to Inhibit Reticulocyte Invasion by Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Gupta Sonal , Singh Shailja , Popovici Jean , Roesch Camille , Shakri Ahmed Rushdi , Guillotte-Blisnick Micheline , Huon Christèle , Menard Didier , Chitnis Chetan E.
Published: July 2018

Plasmodium vivax merozoite invasion is restricted to Duffy positive reticulocytes. Merozoite interaction with the Duffy antigen is mediated by the P. vivax Duffy binding protein (PvDBP). The receptor-binding domain of PvDBP maps to an N-terminal cysteine-rich region referred to as region II (PvDBPII). In addition, a family of P. vivax reticulocyte binding proteins (PvRBPs) mediates interactions with reticulocyte receptors. The receptor binding domain of P. vivax reticulocyte binding protein 1a (PvRBP1a) maps to a 30 kD region (PvRBP1a30). Antibodies raised against recombinant PvRBP1a30 and PvDBPII recognize the native P. vivax antigens and inhibit their binding to host receptors. Rabbit IgG purified from sera raised against PvRBP1a30 and PvDBPII were tested individually and in combination for inhibition of reticulocyte invasion by P. vivax field isolates. While anti-PvDBPII rabbit IgG inhibits invasion, anti-PvRBP1a30 rabbit IgG does not show significant invasion inhibitory activity. Combining antibodies against PvDBPII and PvRBP1a30 also does not increase invasion inhibitory activity. These studies suggest that although PvRBP1a mediates reticulocyte invasion by P. vivax merozoites, it may not be useful to include PvRBP1a30 in a blood stage vaccine for P. vivax malaria. In contrast, these studies validate PvDBPII as a promising blood stage vaccine candidate for P. vivax malaria.
Multi-spectral optical imaging of the spatiotemporal dynamics of ionospheric intermittent turbulence
Authors: Chian Abraham C.-L. , Abalde José R. , Miranda Rodrigo A. , Borotto Felix A. , Hysell David L. , Rempel Erico L. , Ruffolo David
Published: July 2018

Equatorial plasma depletions have significant impact on radio wave propagation in the upper atmosphere, causing rapid fluctuations in the power of radio signals used in telecommunication and GPS navigation, thus playing a crucial role in space weather impacts. Complex structuring and self-organization of equatorial plasma depletions involving bifurcation, connection, disconnection and reconnection are the signatures of nonlinear evolution of interchange instability and secondary instabilities, responsible for the generation of coherent structures and turbulence in the ionosphere. The aims of this paper are three-fold: (1) to report the first optical imaging of reconnection of equatorial plasma depletions in the South Atlantic Magnetic Anomaly, (2) to investigate the optical imaging of equatorial ionospheric intermittent turbulence, and (3) to compare nonlinear characteristics of optical imaging of equatorial plasma depletions for two different altitudes at same times. We show that the degree of spatiotemporal complexity of ionospheric intermittent turbulence can be quantified by nonlinear studies of optical images, confirming the duality of amplitude-phase synchronization in multiscale interactions. By decomposing the analyses into North-South and East-West directions we show that the degree of non-Gaussianity, intermittency and multifractality is stronger in the North-South direction, confirming the anisotropic nature of the interchange instability. In particular, by using simultaneous observation of multi-spectral all-sky emissions from two different heights we show that the degree of non-Gaussianity and intermittency in the bottomside F-region ionosphere is stronger than the peak F-region ionosphere. Our results are confirmed by two sets of observations on the nights of 28 September 2002 and 9 November 2002.
Differences between microhabitat and broad-scale patterns of niche evolution in terrestrial salamanders
Authors: Ficetola Gentile Francesco , Lunghi Enrico , Canedoli Claudia , Padoa-Schioppa Emilio , Pennati Roberta , Manenti Raoul
Published: July 2018

The extent to which closely related species share similar niches remains highly debated. Ecological niches are increasingly analysed by combining distribution records with broad-scale climatic variables, but interactions between species and their environment often occur at fine scales. The idea that macroscale analyses correctly represent fine-scale processes relies on the assumption that average climatic variables are meaningful predictors of processes determining species persistence, but tests of this hypothesis are scarce. We compared broad- and fine-scale (microhabitat) approaches by analyzing the niches of European plethodontid salamanders. Both the microhabitat and the macroecological approaches identified niche differences among species, but the correspondence between micro- and macroecological niches was weak. When exploring niche evolution, the macroecological approach suggested a close relationship between niche and phylogenetic history, but this relationship did not emerge in fine-scale analyses. The apparent pattern of niche evolution emerging in broad-scale analyses likely was the by-product of related species having closely adjacent ranges. The environment actually experienced by most of animals is more heterogeneous than what is apparent from macro-scale predictors, and a better combination between macroecological and fine-grained data may be a key to obtain robust ecological generalizations.
DNA Methylome Analysis of Saturated Aliphatic Aldehydes in Pulmonary Toxicity
Authors: Cho Yoon , Song Mi-Kyung , Kim Tae Sung , Ryu Jae-Chun
Published: July 2018

Recent studies have investigated the epigenetic effects of environmental exposure to chemicals on human health. The associations of DNA methylation, environmental exposure and human diseases have been widely demonstrated. However, the use of gene methylation patterns as a predictive biomarker for exposure to environmental toxicants is relatively poorly understood. Here, we focused on low-molecular-weight saturated aliphatic aldehydes (LSAAs), which are important environmental risk factors in humans as major indoor air pollutants. Based on DNA methylation profiling in gene promoter regions, we analysed DNA methylation profiles following exposure of A549 cells to seven LSAAs (propanal, butanal, pentanal, hexanal, heptanal, octanal, and nonanal) to identify LSAA-characterized methylated sites and target genes, as well as to investigate whether exposure to LSAAs contributes to inducing of pulmonary toxicity. Additionally, by integrating DNA methylation and mRNA expression profile analyses, we identified core anti-correlated target genes. Gene ontology analysis of these target genes revealed several key biological processes. These findings suggest that alterations in DNA methylation by exposure to LSAAs provide novel epigenetic biomarkers for risk assessments. This DNA methylation-mRNA approach also reveals potential new mechanistic insights into the epigenetic actions of pulmonary toxicity.
Classification system of the tibiofibular syndesmosis blood supply and its clinical relevance
Authors: Mróz Izabela , Bachul Piotr J. , Tomaszewski Krzysztof A. , Bereza Tomasz , Gil Krzysztof , Walocha Jerzy A. , Pasternak Artur
Published: July 2018

Due to the lack of anatomical studies concerning complexity of the tibiofibular syndesmosis blood supply, density of blood vessels with further organization of syndesmotic vascular variations is presented in clinically relevant classification system. The material for the study was obtained from cadaveric dissections. We dissected 50 human ankles observing different types of arterial blood supply. Our classification system is based on the vascular variations of the anterior aspect of tibiofibular syndesmosis and corresponds with vascular density. According to our study the mean vascular density of tibiofibular syndesmosis is relatively low (4.4%) and depends on the type of blood supply. The highest density was observed among ankles with complete vasculature and the lowest when lateral anterior malleolar artery was absent (5.8% vs. 3.5%, respectively). Awareness of various types of tibiofibular syndesmosis arterial blood supply is essential for orthopedic surgeons who operate in the ankle region and radiologists for the anatomic evaluation of this area. Knowledge about possible variations along with relatively low density of vessels may contribute to modification of treatment approach by the increase of the recommended time of syndesmotic screw stabilization in order to prevent healing complications.
Agulhas Current properties shape microbial community diversity and potential functionality
Authors: Phoma Sandra , Vikram Surendra , Jansson Janet K. , Ansorge Isabelle J. , Cowan Don A. , Van de Peer Yves , Makhalanyane Thulani P.
Published: July 2018

Understanding the impact of oceanographic features on marine microbial ecosystems remains a major ecological endeavour. Here we assess microbial diversity, community structure and functional capacity along the Agulhas Current system and the Subtropical Front in the South Indian Ocean (SIO). Samples collected from the epipelagic, oxygen minimum and bathypelagic zones were analysed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon and metagenomic sequencing. In contrast to previous studies, we found high taxonomic richness in surface and deep water samples, but generally low richness for OMZ communities. Beta-diversity analysis revealed significant dissimilarity between the three water depths. Most microbial communities were dominated by marine Gammaproteobacteria, with strikingly low levels of picocyanobacteria. Community composition was strongly influenced by specific environmental factors including depth, salinity, and the availability of both oxygen and light. Carbon, nitrogen and sulfur cycling capacity in the SIO was linked to several autotrophic and copiotrophic Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria. Taken together, our data suggest that the environmental conditions in the Agulhas Current system, particularly depth-related parameters, substantially influence microbial community structure. In addition, the capacity for biogeochemical cycling of nitrogen and sulfur is linked primarily to the dominant Gammaproteobacteria taxa, whereas ecologically rare taxa drive carbon cycling.
Performance of Biochip system in detecting drug resistant and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis using sputum collected from multiple clinical settings in Zhejiang, China
Authors: Xu Kaijin , Wang Shuting , Wu Jie , Liu Zhengwei , Ji Zhongkang , Zheng Lin , Jin Xiuyuan , Ren Jingjing , Yang Shigui , Li Zhaoxia , Yuan Jing , Zhao Yanlin , Li Lanjuan
Published: July 2018

The objective of the present study was to conduct a multicentre, prospective evaluation of the diagnostic performance of the Biochip system for the detection of drug-resistant tuberculosis using smear-positive sputum specimens. This prospective study evaluated the diagnostic performance of this new platform for drug resistant and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) using 1491 smear-positive sputum specimens collected from multiple clinical settings. Using conventional culture-based culturing and drug-susceptibility testing as reference standards, the biochip system had a sensitivity of 86.08% and a specificity of 97.7% for rifampicin (RIF) detection, in detecting isoniazid (INH) resistance, it had a sensitivity of 79.36% and a specificity of 98.71%. With respect to MDR-TB detection, the sensitivity was 78.01% and the specificity was 98.86%. The performance only varies among different sites for RIF resistance, and there are no other statistically difference in diagnostic performance for other variables considered. The Biochip system shows favourable sensitivity and specificity for RIF and INH resistance, along with MDR-TB detection, directly using clinical smear-positive sputum samples. It is an alternative to conventional drug-susceptibility testing (DST) for detecting drug resistance or MDR-TB and is a method worth expanding to clinical settings in China.
Both air-sea components are crucial for El Niño forecast from boreal spring
Authors: Fang Xiang-Hui , Mu Mu
Published: July 2018

The spring predictability barrier severely limits our ability to forecast the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) from and across the boreal spring. Our observational analysis shows that the spring predictability barrier (SPB) can be largely reduced when information from both the ocean and atmosphere are effectively taken into account during the boreal spring. The correlation coefficient between the predicted and observed sea surface temperature anomalies over the equatorial central–eastern Pacific determined by a simple quaternary linear regression model is >0.81 for the period 1980–2016. The frame structure of the ENSO evolution is mostly controlled by variations in the oceanic heat content along the equatorial Pacific and the zonal wind stress over the tropical western Pacific during the boreal spring. These results indicate that to predict ENSO events with a long lead time, i.e., largely reducing the SPB, variations in both the ocean and atmosphere during the boreal spring should be well predicted first. While the oceanic information is mainly located in the equatorial Pacific and well characterized by the delayed oscillator and recharging oscillator models, variations in the atmosphere may contain information beyond this area and are more difficult to deal with.
Cerebrovascular Injury After Serial Exposure to Chronic Stress and Abstinence from Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Authors: Natarajan Reka , Mitchell Carmen M. , Harless Nicole , Yamamoto Bryan K.
Published: July 2018

Cerebrovascular damage caused by either exposure to stress or the widely abused drug, methamphetamine (Meth) is known but stress and drug abuse frequently occur in tandem that may impact their individual cerebrovascular effects. This study examined their co-morbid cerebrovascular effects during abstinence from self-administered Meth after the exposure to chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). Exposure to CUS prior to unrestricted Meth self-administration had no effect on Meth intake in rats; however, the pro-inflammatory mediator cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the breakdown of cell-matrix adhesion protein β-dystroglycan in isolated cerebral cortical capillaries were increased after 3 days of abstinence and persisted for 7 days. These changes preceded decreases in occludin, a key structural protein component of the blood-brain barrier. The decrease in occludin was blocked by the COX-2 specific inhibitor nimesulide treatment during abstinence from Meth. The changes in COX-2, β-dystroglycan, and occludin were only evident following the serial exposure to stress and Meth but not after either one alone. These results suggest that stress and voluntary Meth intake can synergize and disrupt cerebrovasculature in a time-dependent manner during abstinence from chronic stress and Meth. Furthermore, COX-2 inhibition may be a viable pharmacological intervention to block vascular changes after Meth exposure.
Channel dispersed Fourier transform spectrometer
Authors: Hong Brandon , Monifi Faraz , Fainman Yeshaiahu
Published: July 2018

The high signal throughput of Fourier transform spectroscopy has proved a boon to overcoming the difficulties of otherwise overwhelming detector noise in chemical infrared spectroscopy and near-infrared Raman spectroscopy, and is desirable for in situ measurement. Here we introduce a stationary channel dispersed Fourier transform (CDFT) spectrometer that efficiently utilizes two-dimensional imagers to obtain high-resolution input spectra in low-pixel-density imagers. By angularly dispersing a vertical one-dimensional interference pattern along a horizontal axis, an array of bandlimited interferogram channels is measured with reduced sampling constraints in each channel. CDFT spectrometers can use existing imagers to measure spectra with 0.0025 cm−1resolution over an 800 cm−1bandwidth. Moreover, this approach reduces the quantization noise present in low dynamic range imagers significantly. To demonstrate the utility of CDFT spectroscopy, broadband spectral domain optical coherence and multicolor quantum dot photoluminescence are measured in low-pixel-density imagers.
Operando X-ray spectroscopic tracking of self-reconstruction for anchored nanoparticles as high-performance electrocatalysts towards oxygen evolution
Authors: Song Sanzhao , Zhou Jing , Su Xiaozhi , Wang Yu , Li Jiong , Zhang Linjuan , Xiao Guoping , Guan Chengzhi , Liu Renduo , Chen Shuguang , Lin Hong-Ji , Zhang Shuo , Wang Jian-Qiang
Published: July 2018

Operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) technique unravels that the CoFe nanoparticles in a new type of lanthana-anchored CoFe catalyst are nearly transformed into unique (Co/Fe)O(OH) under the electrochemical condition, as real active species for oxygen evolution reaction.
High-yield production of 2D crystals by wet-jet milling
Authors: Del Rio Castillo A. E. , Pellegrini V. , Ansaldo A. , Ricciardella F. , Sun H. , Marasco L. , Buha J. , Dang Z. , Gagliani L. , Lago E. , Curreli N. , Gentiluomo S. , Palazon F. , Prato M. , Oropesa-Nuñez R. , Toth P. S. , Mantero E. , Crugliano M. , Gamucci A. , Tomadin A. , Polini M. , Bonaccorso F.
Published: July 2018

A novel liquid-phase exfoliation of layered crystals enables the production of defect-free and high quality 2D-crystal dispersions on a large scale.
In situ insight into the unconventional ruthenium catalyzed growth of carbon nanostructures
Authors: Bahri M. , Dembélé K. , Sassoye C. , Debecker D. P. , Moldovan S. , Gay A. S. , Hirlimann Ch. , Sanchez C. , Ersen O.
Published: July 2018

We report on the in situ analysis of the growth process of carbon nanostructures catalyzed by Ru nanoparticles using syngas, a mixture of hydrogen and CO, as the carbon source at a medium temperature (500 °C).
Highly enantioselective desymmetrization of prochiral cyclic α,α-dicyanoalkenes via the direct vinylogous Michael/cyclization domino reaction
Authors: Mei Hongjiang , Lin Lili , Shen Bin , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: July 2018

A chiral N,N′-dioxide/Mg(ii) complex efficiently constructs spiroindolinones which include three adjacent atom chiralities and a tertiary carbon center at remote sites in up to 95% yield, with 99% ee and 20 : 1 dr.
Hesperetin inhibits Eca-109 cell proliferation and invasion by suppressing the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and synergistically enhances the anti-tumor effect of 5-fluorouracil on esophageal cancer in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Wu Dandan , Li Jiao , Hu Xue , Ma Jingjing , Dong Weiguo
Published: July 2018

Effects of hesperetin on the proliferation and invasion of esophageal cancer cells and its synergistic anti-cancer effect with 5-FU.
Surface modification and pattern formation by nucleobases and their coordination complexes
Authors: Saravanan R. Kamal , Avasthi Ilesha , Prajapati Rajneesh Kumar , Verma Sandeep
Published: July 2018

This review highlights recent advancements in surface patterning of nucleobases, their analogs including nucleobase-CNT hybrids and metal complexes, using various microscopy techniques for nanotechnological applications.
Acceleration of CO2 insertion into metal hydrides: ligand, Lewis acid, and solvent effects on reaction kinetics
Authors: Heimann Jessica E. , Bernskoetter Wesley H. , Hazari Nilay , Mayer James M.
Published: July 2018

Kinetic studies of CO2 insertion into transition metal hydrides provide evidence about the nature of the rate-determining transition state.
The Si–Ge substitutional series in the chiral STW zeolite structure type
Authors: Rigo Reus T. , Balestra Salvador R. G. , Hamad Said , Bueno-Perez Rocio , Ruiz-Salvador A. Rabdel , Calero Sofía , Camblor Miguel A.
Published: July 2018

Ge substitution for Si in zeolites containing double-four-membered rings is far more complex than thought.
In situ conversion of sub-4 nm Co(OH)2 nanosheet arrays from phytic acid-derived Co3(HPO4)2(OH)2 for superior high loading supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Shengqi , Zhu Zhaoqiang , Li Pengwei , Zhao Chunhua , Zhao Chongjun , Xia Hui
Published: July 2018

Sub-4 nm Co(OH)2 nanosheet arrays were converted in situ from phytic acid-derived Co3(HPO4)2(OH)2, and the as-prepared SNC@CoF electrode exhibited a Qm of 429 mA h g−1 (0.42 A g−1).
ProbioticLactobacillus paracaseiHII01 protects rats against obese-insulin resistance-induced kidney injury and impaired renal organic anion transporter 3 function
Authors: Wanchai Keerati , Yasom Sakawdaurn , Tunapong Wannipa , Chunchai Titikorn , Eaimworawuthikul Sathima , Thiennimitr Parameth , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat , Pongchaidecha Anchalee , Chatsudthipong Varanuj , Chattipakorn Siriporn , Chattipakorn Nipon , Lungkaphin Anusorn
Published: July 2018

The relationship between gut dysbiosis and obesity is currently acknowledged to be a health topic which causes low-grade systemic inflammation and insulin resistance and may damage the kidney. Organic anion transporter 3 (Oat3) has been shown as a transporter responsible for renal handling of gut microbiota products which are involved in the progression of metabolic disorder. The present study investigated the effect of probiotic supplementation on kidney function, renal Oat3 function, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis in obese, insulin-resistant rats. After 12 weeks of being provided with either a normal or a high-fat diet (HF), rats were divided into normal diet (ND); ND treated with probiotics (NDL); HF; and HF treated with probiotic (HFL). Lactobacillus paracasei HII01 1 × 108 colony forming unit (CFU)/ml was administered to the rats daily by oral gavage for 12 weeks. Obese rats showed significant increases in serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS), plasma lipid profiles, and insulin resistance. Renal Oat 3 function was decreased along with kidney dysfunction in HF-fed rats. Obese rats also demonstrated the increases in inflammation, ER stress, apoptosis, and gluconeogenesis in the kidneys. These alterations were improved by Lactobacillus paracasei HII01 treatment. In conclusion, probiotic supplementation alleviated kidney inflammation, ER stress, and apoptosis, leading to improved kidney function and renal Oat3 function in obese rats. These benefits involve the attenuation of hyperlipidemia, systemic inflammation, and insulin resistance. The present study also suggested the idea of remote sensing and signaling system between gut and kidney by which probiotic might facilitate renal handling of gut microbiota products through the improvement of Oat3 function.
Adrenergically and non-adrenergically mediated human adipose tissue lipolysis during acute exercise and exercise training
Authors: Verboven Kenneth , Stinkens Rudi , Hansen Dominique , Wens Inez , Frederix Ines , Eijnde Bert O. , Jocken Johan W.E. , Goossens Gijs H. , Blaak Ellen E.
Published: July 2018

Obesity-related adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction, in particular subcutaneous AT (SCAT) lipolysis, is characterized by catecholamine resistance and impaired atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) responsiveness. It remains unknown whether exercise training improves (non-)adrenergically mediated lipolysis in metabolically compromised conditions. We investigated the effects of local combined α-/β-adrenoceptor blockade on abdominal SCAT lipolysis in lean insulin sensitive (IS) (n=10), obese IS (n=10), and obese insulin resistant (IR) (n=10) men. Obese men participated in a 12-week exercise training intervention to determine the effects on SCAT lipolysis. Abdominal SCAT extracellular glycerol concentration and blood flow (ATBF) were investigated using microdialysis, with/without locally combined α-/β-adrenoceptor blockade at rest, during low-intensity endurance-type exercise and post-exercise recovery. In obese IR men, microdialysis was repeated after exercise intervention. The exercise-induced increase in SCAT extracellular glycerol was more pronounced in obese IS compared with lean IS men, possibly resulting from lower ATBF in obese IS men. The exercise-induced increase in extracellular glycerol was blunted in obese IR compared with obese IS men, despite comparable local ATBF. Abdominal SCAT extracellular glycerol was markedly reduced (remaining ~60% of exercise-induced SCAT extracellular glycerol) following the local α-/β-adrenoceptor blockade in obese IS but not in IR men, suggesting reduced catecholamine-mediated lipolysis during exercise in obese IR men. Exercise training did not affect (non-)adrenergically mediated lipolysis in obese IR men. Our findings showed a major contribution of non-adrenergically-mediated lipolysis during exercise in male abdominal SCAT. Furthermore, catecholamine-mediated lipolysis may be blunted during exercise in obese IR men but could not be improved by exercise intervention, despite an improved metabolic profile and body composition.
Natural history of mitochondrial disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Keshavan Nandaki , Rahman Shamima
Published: July 2018

The natural history of a disease defines the age of onset, presenting features, clinical phenotype, morbidity and mortality outcomes of disease that is unmodified by treatments. A clear understanding of the natural history of mitochondrial disorders is essential for establishing genotype-phenotype–prognosis correlations. We performed a systematic review of the reported natural history of mitochondrial disease by searching the literature for all published natural history studies containing at least 20 individuals. We defined a phenotype as ‘common’ if it was observed in ≥30% of cases in a study, thereby highlighting common and uncommon phenotypes for each disorder. Thirty-seven natural history studies were identified encompassing 29 mitochondrial disease entities. Fifty-nine percent of disorders had an onset before 18 months and 81% before 18 years. Most disorders had multisystemic involvement and most often affected were the central nervous system, eyes, gastrointestinal system, skeletal muscle, auditory system and the heart. Less frequent involvement was seen for respiratory, renal, endocrine, hepatic, haematological and genitourinary systems. Elevated lactate was the most frequent biochemical abnormality, seen in 72% of disorders. Age of death was <1 y in 13% of disorders, <5 y in 57% and <10 y in 74%. Disorders with high mortality rates were generally associated with earlier deaths. The most robust indicators of poor prognosis were early presentation of disease and truncating mutations. A thorough knowledge of natural history has helped to redefine diagnostic criteria for classical clinical syndromes and to establish a clinical baseline for comparison in single-arm clinical trials of novel therapies.
Naturalistic Speech-Generating Device Interventions for Children With Complex Communication Needs: A Systematic Review of Single-Subject Studies
Authors: Gevarter Cindy , Zamora Claudia
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This article presents a systematic review that aimed to synthesize single-subject–design studies that have examined naturalistic interventions for teaching the expressive use of speech-generating devices (SGDs) to children with complex communication needs. Specifically, this review describes what intervention strategies are most commonly applied in studies with positive effects and minimal methodological flaws and examines the populations and outcomes for which these strategies have been effective.

Method

A systematic approach was used to qualitatively code variables of interest to this review. Results were summarized via both visual analysis and effect size methods, and a certainty of evidence methodology was adopted to describe the quality of the evidence.

Results

Thirty-two unique studies met inclusion criteria, with 19 having consistent positive results and meeting minimum requirements for certainty of evidence. Although studies used a variety of titles to describe intervention packages (e.g., milieu teaching, interaction strategies), certain strategies were common across studies. These included (a) creating and capturing communication opportunities via methods such as time delay and questioning; (b) providing feedback via methods such as reinforcement of requests, praise, or expansions; (c) prompting (verbal, physical, gestural); (d) modeling; and (e) training communication partners.

Conclusions

Findings regarding these intervention components help to provide practical guidelines for naturalistic SGD intervention. Limitations of the current body of research (e.g., need to include more home-based studies and more intermediate to advanced SGDs, need to critically analyze the most critical intervention components) provide suggestions for future research.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.6615332
Maternal Responsiveness to Gestures in Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Lorang Emily , Sterling Audra , Schroeder Bianca
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This study compared gesture use in young children with Down syndrome (DS) and typical development (TD) as well as how mothers respond to child gestures based on child age and diagnosis.

Method

Twenty-two mother–child dyads with DS and 22 mother–child dyads with TD participated. The child participants were between 22 and 63 months and were matched on chronological age. We coded child gesture use and whether mothers recoded child gestures (i.e., provided a verbal translation) during naturalistic interactions.

Results

The children with DS used more gestures than peers with TD. After controlling for expressive language ability, the two groups were not significantly different on child gesture use. Regardless of child diagnosis, mothers recoded approximately the same percentage of child gestures. There was a significant interaction between child diagnosis and child age when predicting the percentage of maternal gesture recodes; mothers of children with DS did not demonstrate differences in the percentage of maternal gesture recodes based on child age, but there was a negative relationship between the percentage of maternal gesture recodes and child age for the children with TD.

Conclusions

Young children with DS gesture more than chronological age–matched children with TD, therefore providing numerous opportunities for caregivers to recode child gestures and support language development. Early intervention should focus on increasing parent responsiveness to child gestures earlier in life in order to provide additional word-learning opportunities for children with DS.