bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the validity of multiple obesity indices compared with obesity-related co-morbidities
Authors: Myung Jaeeun , Jung Kyung Yoon , Kim Tae Hyun , Han Euna
Published: February 2019

Objective

The aim of the present study was to compare selected obesity indicators with comprehensive health status.

Design

The study employed a pooled cross-sectional design.

Setting

BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body fat percentage were considered as indirect obesity indicators. The Edmonton Obesity Staging System (EOSS) was used as a composite indicator to comprehensively reflect obesity-related co-morbidities. Cohen’sκcoefficient was used to evaluate inter-measurement agreement for obesity. Conformity of indirect obesity indicators to the EOSS was assessed based on percentage agreement (proportion classified as obese and severely unhealthy as a result of obesity among the total sample), sensitivity (proportion classified as obese among individuals severely unhealthy as a result of obesity) and specificity (proportion classified as non-obese among fairly healthy individuals). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the sociodemographic factors most strongly associated with conformity.

Participants

The study included 17338 adults from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination survey conducted between July 2008 and May 2011.

Results

Level of conformity to the EOSS was highest for WHtR (60·77 %) and lowest for BMI (35·96 %). WHtR and BMI had the highest sensitivity (53·7 %) and specificity (98·4 %), respectively. Predictability of conformity was lower among men for all indirect obesity indicators.

Conclusions

WHtR has the greatest potential to identify individuals at risk of health problems due to obesity. Individual demographic factors must be considered in selecting the most appropriate obesity measurement.
ON THE -ADIC VARIATION OF HEEGNER POINTS
Authors: Castella Francesc
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we prove an ‘explicit reciprocity law’ relating Howard’s system of big Heegner points to a two-variable$p$-adic$L$-function (constructed here) interpolating the$p$-adic Rankin$L$-series of Bertolini–Darmon–Prasanna in Hida families. As applications, we obtain a direct relation between classical Heegner cycles and the higher weight specializations of big Heegner points, refining earlier work of the author, and prove the vanishing of Selmer groups of CM elliptic curves twisted by 2-dimensional Artin representations in cases predicted by the equivariant Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture.
Beyond the Candelabra: The Liberace Show and the Remediation of Beethoven
Authors: SALINAS EDGARDO
Published: February 2019

Liberace entered the sprawling scene of US pop culture in 1952 emceeing a TV show that initially garnered higher ratings than I Love Lucy. The Liberace Show presented staples of the classical piano repertoire in abridged versions that cut the “dull parts” and liberally added orchestrations. Liberace's heterodox practices outraged prominent music critics, who soon deemed him the very incarnation of kitsch. Turning from aesthetic criticism to an archaeological analysis of media, I discuss the show's presentation of classical music, taking as its main case study Liberace's iconoclastic rendition of Beethoven's “Tempest” sonata, and examine it through the theory of remediation advanced by Jay David Bolter and Richard Grusin. Analyzing archival videos, I show how the alterations exerted on the musical text were inextricably tied to the telegenic mise-en-scènes staged for each episode while situating them in the new media landscape that emerged in the 1950s. The show remediated not only the pieces Liberace performed but also his own TV persona to nurture an intimate bond with home viewers who became captivated by the host's enchanting presence. I contend that Liberace's remediations drastically collapsed the specificity of performance medium that modern critics construed to be immanent to the musical work. This collapse entailed a proliferation of musical and audiovisual media that afforded Liberace's devoted viewers an alluring experience of immediacy and ultimately retrieved the domestic intimacy that had been integral to the genealogy of the piano sonata.
Reconstructing the History of Motown Session Musicians: The Carol Kaye/James Jamerson Controversy
Authors: WRIGHT BRIAN F.
Published: February 2019

Motown Records churned out hit singles with remarkable efficiency, thanks largely to a stable of skilled professional session musicians. However, exactly who played on their most iconic recordings remains a mystery because, as was standard within the music industry, no Motown release in the 1960s credited these musicians for their work. These practices have led to conflicting accounts, the most famous of which concerns bassists James Jamerson and Carol Kaye. To this day, Kaye alleges that she played on numerous classic Motown recordings but has been purposefully omitted from Motown history. Conversely, Jamerson—who died more than thirty years ago—continues to be vehemently defended by acolytes such as biographer Allan Slutsky, who see Kaye's claims as blasphemous. Drawing on previously unexamined sources, this article reconstructs Kaye's involvement with Motown and, in so doing, reevaluates the merits of the Kaye/Jamerson controversy. Building on the work of Andrew Flory, I explore the role of session musicians in Motown's creative process and argue that critics and fans have propagated a problematic discourse in which Jamerson has been valorized and Kaye has been dismissed. Ultimately, Kaye's story not only provides a useful corrective to the historical record, it also demonstrates the need for further research into session musicians’ contributions to popular music.
PBK, targeted by EVI1, promotes metastasis and confers cisplatin resistance through inducing autophagy in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Ma Hanlin , Li Yingwei , Wang Xiangxiang , Wu Huan , Qi Gonghua , Li Rongrong , Yang Ning , Gao Min , Yan Shi , Yuan Cunzhong , Kong Beihua
Published: February 2019

High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is the most lethal type of gynecologic malignancy. Chemoresistance is the main reason for the poor prognosis of HGSOC. PDZ-binding kinase (PBK) promotes the malignant progression of various carcinomas. However, the roles and clinical significance of PBK in HGSOC remain unclear. Here, we reported that PBK was overexpressed in HGSOC tissues and cell lines. High PBK expression was associated with a poor prognosis, metastasis, and cisplatin resistance of HGSOC. Overexpression of PBK promoted autophagy and enhanced cisplatin resistance via the ERK/mTOR signaling pathway. Further study showed that inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine or bafilomycin A1 reversed PBK-induced cisplatin resistance. Overexpression of PBK decreased ovarian cancer responsiveness to cisplatin treatment through inducing autophagy in vivo. We also demonstrated that the PBK inhibitor OTS514 augmented the growth inhibition effect of cisplatin in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, ecotropic viral integration site-1 (EVI1) could regulate PBK expression through directly targeting the PBK promoter region. In conclusion, high PBK expression was correlated with a poor prognosis, metastasis, and cisplatin resistance through promoting autophagy in HGSOC. PBK might be a promising target for the early diagnosis and individual treatment of ovarian cancer.
Intravenous treatment of choroidal neovascularization by photo-targeted nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Yanfei , Liu Chi-Hsiu , Ji Tianjiao , Mehta Manisha , Wang Weiping , Marino Elizabeth , Chen Jing , Kohane Daniel S.
Published: February 2019

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the major cause of vision loss in wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Current therapies require repeated intravitreal injections, which are painful and can cause infection, bleeding, and retinal detachment. Here we develop nanoparticles (NP-[CPP]) that can be administered intravenously and allow local drug delivery to the diseased choroid via light-triggered targeting. NP-[CPP] is formed by PEG-PLA chains modified with a cell penetrating peptide (CPP). Attachment of a DEACM photocleavable group to the CPP inhibits cellular uptake of NP-[CPP]. Irradiation with blue light cleaves DEACM from the CPP, allowing the CPP to migrate from the NP core to the surface, rendering it active. In mice with laser-induced CNV, intravenous injection of NP-[CPP] coupled to irradiation of the eye allows NP accumulation in the neovascular lesions. When loaded with doxorubicin, irradiated NP-[CPP] significantly reduces neovascular lesion size. We propose a strategy for non-invasive treatment of CNV and enhanced drug accumulation specifically in diseased areas of the eye.
Siderophore-inspired chelator hijacks uranium from aqueous medium
Authors: Ivanov Alexander S. , Parker Bernard F. , Zhang Zhicheng , Aguila Briana , Sun Qi , Ma Shengqian , Jansone-Popova Santa , Arnold John , Mayes Richard T. , Dai Sheng , Bryantsev Vyacheslav S. , Rao Linfeng , Popovs Ilja
Published: February 2019

Over millennia, nature has evolved an ability to selectively recognize and sequester specific metal ions by employing a wide variety of supramolecular chelators. Iron-specific molecular carriers—siderophores—are noteworthy for their structural elegance, while exhibiting some of the strongest and most selective binding towards a specific metal ion. Development of simple uranyl (UO22+) recognition motifs possessing siderophore-like selectivity, however, presents a challenge. Herein we report a comprehensive theoretical, crystallographic and spectroscopic studies on the UO22+ binding with a non-toxic siderophore-inspired chelator, 2,6-bis[hydroxy(methyl)amino]-4-morpholino-1,3,5-triazine (H2BHT). The optimal pKa values and structural preorganization endow H2BHT with one of the highest uranyl binding affinity and selectivity among molecular chelators. The results of small-molecule standards are validated by a proof-of-principle development of the H2BHT-functionalized polymeric adsorbent material that affords high uranium uptake capacity even in the presence of competing vanadium (V) ions in aqueous medium.
Sphingolipid-dependent Dscam sorting regulates axon segregation
Authors: Goyal Gaurav , Zheng Junfeng , Adam Elisabeth , Steffes Georg , Jain Mamta , Klavins Kristaps , Hummel Thomas
Published: February 2019

Neurons are highly polarized cells with distinct protein compositions in axonal and dendritic compartments. Cellular mechanisms controlling polarized protein sorting have been described for mature nervous system but little is known about the segregation in newly differentiated neurons. In a forward genetic screen for regulators of Drosophila brain circuit development, we identified mutations in SPT, an evolutionary conserved enzyme in sphingolipid biosynthesis. Here we show that reduced levels of sphingolipids in SPT mutants cause axonal morphology defects similar to loss of cell recognition molecule Dscam. Loss- and gain-of-function studies show that neuronal sphingolipids are critical to prevent aggregation of axonal and dendritic Dscam isoforms, thereby ensuring precise Dscam localization to support axon branch segregation. Furthermore, SPT mutations causing neurodegenerative HSAN-I disorder in humans also result in formation of stable Dscam aggregates and axonal branch phenotypes in Drosophila neurons, indicating a causal link between developmental protein sorting defects and neuronal dysfunction.
Patients with basal ganglia damage show preserved learning in an economic game
Authors: Zhu Lusha , Jiang Yaomin , Scabini Donatella , Knight Robert T. , Hsu Ming
Published: February 2019

Both basal ganglia (BG) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) have been widely implicated in social and non-social decision-making. However, unlike OFC damage, BG pathology is not typically associated with disturbances in social functioning. Here we studied the behavior of patients with focal lesions to either BG or OFC in a multi-strategy competitive game known to engage these regions. We find that whereas OFC patients are significantly impaired, BG patients show intact learning in the economic game. By contrast, when information about the strategic context is absent, both cohorts are significantly impaired. Computational modeling further shows a preserved ability in BG patients to learn by anticipating and responding to the behavior of others using the strategic context. These results suggest that apparently divergent findings on BG contribution to social decision-making may instead reflect a model where higher-order learning processes are dissociable from trial-and-error learning, and can be preserved despite BG damage.
Solving the electronic structure problem with machine learning
Authors: Chandrasekaran Anand , Kamal Deepak , Batra Rohit , Kim Chiho , Chen Lihua , Ramprasad Rampi
Published: February 2019

Simulations based on solving the Kohn-Sham (KS) equation of density functional theory (DFT) have become a vital component of modern materials and chemical sciences research and development portfolios. Despite its versatility, routine DFT calculations are usually limited to a few hundred atoms due to the computational bottleneck posed by the KS equation. Here we introduce a machine-learning-based scheme to efficiently assimilate the function of the KS equation, and by-pass it to directly, rapidly, and accurately predict the electronic structure of a material or a molecule, given just its atomic configuration. A new rotationally invariant representation is utilized to map the atomic environment around a grid-point to the electron density and local density of states at that grid-point. This mapping is learned using a neural network trained on previously generated reference DFT results at millions of grid-points. The proposed paradigm allows for the high-fidelity emulation of KS DFT, but orders of magnitude faster than the direct solution. Moreover, the machine learning prediction scheme is strictly linear-scaling with system size.
Comprehensive measurements of hydroxylinoleate and hydroxyarachidonate isomers in blood samples from primary open-angle glaucoma patients and controls
Authors: Umeno Aya , Tanito Masaki , Kaidzu Sachiko , Takai Yasuyuki , Horie Masanori , Yoshida Yasukazu
Published: February 2019

We previously reported that lower systemic antioxidant capacity is involved in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and exfoliation syndrome pathogeneses as measured by ferric-reducing activity. In the present study, we measured hydroxylinoleate (HODE) and hydroxyarachidonate (HETE) isomer serum levels after sample reduction and saponification to investigate POAG pathogenesis. POAG patients (n = 198) were recruited and divided into normal- and high-tension glaucoma groups (n = 84 and 114, respectively) depending on intraocular pressure. Total HODE (/linoleic acid) and HETE (/arachidonic acid) serum levels were significantly higher in the POAG group (211.9 ± 143.0 and 181.0 ± 164.1 µmol/mol, respectively) than in controls (167.1 ± 105.2 and 132.5 ± 139.7 µmol/mol, p = 0.0025 and 0.0101, respectively). The associations between HODEs/HETEs and glaucoma were further confirmed by multivariate analyses after adjusting for differences in demographic parameters. Among the HODE isomers, the levels of 9- and 13-(Z,E)-HODEs (p = 0.0014) and singlet oxygen-specific products (i.e., 10- and 12-(Z,E)-HODEs, p = 0.0345) were higher in the POAG group than in controls, while free radical-mediated oxidation-specific products (i.e., 9- and 13-(E,E)-HODEs, p = 0.0557) demonstrated a marginal difference. Enzymatic and singlet oxygen-mediated fatty acid oxidation may be major pathways of oxidation process in glaucoma subjects.
Metabolism as an early predictor of DPSCs aging
Authors: Macrin Dannie , Alghadeer Ammar , Zhao Yan Ting , Miklas Jason W. , Hussein Abdiasis M. , Detraux Damien , Robitaille Aaron M. , Madan Anup , Moon Randall T. , Wang Yuliang , Devi Arikketh , Mathieu Julie , Ruohola-Baker Hannele
Published: February 2019

Tissue resident adult stem cells are known to participate in tissue regeneration and repair that follows cell turnover, or injury. It has been well established that aging impedes the regeneration capabilities at the cellular level, but it is not clear if the different onset of stem cell aging between individuals can be predicted or prevented at an earlier stage. Here we studied the dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), a population of adult stem cells that is known to participate in the repair of an injured tooth, and its properties can be affected by aging. The dental pulp from third molars of a diverse patient group were surgically extracted, generating cells that had a high percentage of mesenchymal stem cell markers CD29, CD44, CD146 and Stro1 and had the ability to differentiate into osteo/odontogenic and adipogenic lineages. Through RNA seq and qPCR analysis we identified homeobox protein, Barx1, as a marker for DPSCs. Furthermore, using high throughput transcriptomic and proteomic analysis we identified markers for DPSC populations with accelerated replicative senescence. In particular, we show that the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway and the cytoskeletal proteins are upregulated in rapid aging DPSCs, indicating a loss of stem cell characteristics and spontaneous initiation of terminal differentiation. Importantly, using metabolic flux analysis, we identified a metabolic signature for the rapid aging DPSCs, prior to manifestation of senescence phenotypes. This metabolic signature therefore can be used to predict the onset of replicative senescence. Hence, the present study identifies Barx1 as a DPSCs marker and dissects the first predictive metabolic signature for DPSCs aging.
Transcriptional profiling of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during a compatible interaction with the cereal cyst nematode Heterodera avenae
Authors: Qiao Fen , Kong Ling-An , Peng Huan , Huang Wen-Kun , Wu Du-Qing , Liu Shi-Ming , Clarke Jihong Liu , Qiu De-Wen , Peng De-Liang
Published: February 2019

Cereal cyst nematode (CCN, Heterodera avenae) presents severe challenges to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production worldwide. An investigation of the interaction between wheat and CCN can greatly improve our understanding of how nematodes alter wheat root metabolic pathways for their development and could contribute to new control strategies against CCN. In this study, we conducted transcriptome analyses of wheat cv. Wen 19 (Wen19) by using RNA-Seq during the compatible interaction with CCN at 1, 3 and 8 days past inoculation (dpi). In total, 71,569 transcripts were identified, and 10,929 of them were examined as differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to CCN infection. Based on the functional annotation and orthologous findings, the protein phosphorylation, oxidation-reduction process, regulation of transcription, metabolic process, transport, and response process as well as many other pathways previously reported were enriched at the transcriptional level. Plant cell wall hydrolysis and modifying proteins, auxin biosynthesis, signalling and transporter genes were up-regulated by CCN infection to facilitate penetration, migration and syncytium establishment. Genes responding to wounding and jasmonic acid stimuli were enriched at 1 dpi. We found 16 NBS-LRR genes, 12 of which were down-regulated, indicating the repression of resistance. The expression of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes, glutathione S-transferases and UDP-glucosyltransferase was significantly up-regulated during CCN infection, indicating that they may play key roles in the compatible interaction of wheat with CCN. Taken together, the results obtained from the transcriptome analyses indicate that the genes involved in oxidation-reduction processes, induction and suppression of resistance, metabolism, transport and syncytium establishment may be involved in the compatible interaction of Wen 19 with CCN. This study provides new insights into the responses of wheat to CCN infection. These insights could facilitate the elucidation of the potential mechanisms of wheat responses to CCN.
Association of PXR and CAR Polymorphisms and Antituberculosis Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Wang Yu , Xiang Xi , Huang Wei-Wei , Sandford Andrew J , Wu Shou-Quan , Zhang Miao-Miao , Wang Ming-Gui , Chen Guo , He Jian-Qing
Published: February 2019

A combination therapy of multiple drugs including isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol and pyrazinamide has been proven to be an effective option for the vast majority of tuberculosis (TB) patients. However, various adverse drug reactions (ADRs) limit its merit, with anti-TB drug-induced hepatotoxicity (ATDH) being a common and sometimes severe ADR. This study aimed to investigate the association between polymorphisms in two nuclear receptor genes, pregnane X receptor (PXR) and constitutive androstane receptor (CAR), and the risk of ATDH in a Chinese population. Subjects with or without hepatotoxicity during anti-TB treatment were recruited. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood and genotypes of the selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were determined by using the improved multiplex ligation detection reaction technique. Three genetic models (additive, dominant, and recessive) as well as haplotype, SNP-SNP interaction analyses were used to evaluate the genetic risk of ATDH. A total of 502 subjects (203 ATDH and 299 non-ATDH) were enrolled. The results showed that the minor allele of rs7643645 and the H0010001 haplotype in PXR were associated with decreased risk of ATDH, suggesting that drug-metabolizing enzymes regulated by PXR are involved in the pathogenesis of ATDH. More studies are required to verify this result.
Hydrogen Sulfide Protects Hyperhomocysteinemia-Induced Renal Damage by Modulation of Caveolin and eNOS Interaction
Authors: Pushpakumar Sathnur , Kundu Sourav , Sen Utpal
Published: February 2019

The accumulation of homocysteine (Hcy) during chronic kidney failure (CKD) can exert toxic effects on the glomeruli and tubulo-interstitial region. Among the potential mechanisms, the formation of highly reactive metabolite, Hcy thiolactone, is known to modify proteins by N-homocysteinylation, leading to protein degradation, stress and impaired function. Previous studies documented impaired nitric oxide production and altered caveolin expression in hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), leading to endothelial dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine whether Hhcy homocysteinylates endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and alters caveolin-1 expression to decrease nitric oxide bioavailability, causing hypertension and renal dysfunction. We also examined whether hydrogen sulfide (H2S) could dehomocysteinylate eNOS to protect the kidney. WT and Cystathionine β-Synthase deficient (CBS+/−) mice representing HHcy were treated without or with sodium hydrogen sulfide (NaHS), a H2S donor (30 µM), in drinking water for 8 weeks. Hhcy mice (CBS+/−) showed low levels of plasma H2S, elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) and renal dysfunction. H2S treatment reduced SBP and improved renal function. Hhcy was associated with homocysteinylation of eNOS, reduced enzyme activity and upregulation of caveolin-1 expression. Further, Hhcy increased extracellular matrix (ECM) protein deposition and disruption of gap junction proteins, connexins. H2S treatment reversed the changes above and transfection of triple genes producing H2S (CBS, CSE and 3MST) showed reduction of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. We conclude that during Hhcy, homocysteinylation of eNOS and disruption of caveolin-mediated regulation leads to ECM remodeling and hypertension, and H2S treatment attenuates renovascular damage.
Assessment of Land-Use and Land-Cover Change in Guangxi, China
Authors: Hu Yunfeng , Batunacun  , Zhen Lin , Zhuang Dafang
Published: February 2019

It is increasingly acknowledged that land-use and land-cover change has become a key subject that urgently needs to be addressed in the study of global environmental change. In the present study, supported by the long-time-series of land-use and land-cover data from 1990, 2000, and 2017, we used the land-use transition matrix, Markov chain model and Moran’s I to derive detailed information of the spatial patterns and temporal variation of the land-use and land-cover change; additionally, we highlight the deforestation/afforestation conversion process during the period of 1990–2017. The results show that a total of 4708 km2 (i.e., 2.0% of the total area) changed in Guangxi from 1990 to 2017, while 418 km2 of woodland has been lost in this region. The woodland lost (deforestation) and woodland gained (afforestation) were collocated with intensive forest practices in the past 27 years. The conversions from woodland to cropland and from woodland to grassland were the dominant processes of deforestation and afforestation, respectively. Steep slope cropland was one of the major conversion patterns of afforestation after 2000. This result is mainly explained by the implementation of the “Grain for Green Program” policy and the large-scale development of eucalyptus plantations. Further efforts should be made to control deforestation in this area. These findings can also be used as a reference in the formulation and implementation of sustainable woodland management policies.
Opportunistic Entanglement Distribution for the Quantum Internet
Authors: Gyongyosi Laszlo , Imre Sandor
Published: February 2019

Quantum entanglement is a building block of the entangled quantum networks of the quantum Internet. A fundamental problem of the quantum Internet is entanglement distribution. Since quantum entanglement will be fundamental to any future quantum networking scenarios, the distribution mechanism of quantum entanglement is a critical and emerging issue in quantum networks. Here we define the method of opportunistic entanglement distribution for the quantum Internet. The opportunistic model defines distribution sets that are aimed to select those quantum nodes for which the cost function picks up a local minimum. The cost function utilizes the error patterns of the local quantum memories and the predictability of the evolution of the entanglement fidelities. Our method provides efficient entanglement distributing with respect to the actual statuses of the local quantum memories of the node pairs. The model provides an easily-applicable, moderate-complexity solution for high-fidelity entanglement distribution in experimental quantum Internet scenarios.
Redox-regulation and life-history trade-offs: scavenging mitochondrial ROS improves growth in a wild bird
Authors: Velando Alberto , Noguera Jose C. , da Silva Alberto , Kim Sin-Yeon
Published: February 2019

It has been proposed that animals usually restrain their growth because fast growth leads to an increased production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS), which can damage mitochondrial DNA and promote mitochondrial dysfunction. Here, we explicitly test whether this occurs in a wild bird by supplementing chicks with a mitochondria-targeted ROS scavenger, mitoubiquinone (mitoQ), and examining growth rates and mtDNA damage. In the yellow-legged gull Larus michahellis, mitoQ supplementation increased the early growth rate of chicks but did not reduce mtDNA damage. The level of mtDNA damage was negatively correlated with chick mass, but this relationship was not affected by the mitoQ treatment. We also found that chick growth was positively correlated with both mtDNA copy number and the mitochondrial enzymatic activity of citrate synthase, suggesting a link between mitochondrial content and growth. Additionally, we found that MitoQ supplementation increased mitochondrial content (in males), altered the relationship between mtDNA copy number and damage, and downregulated some transcriptional pathways related to cell rejuvenation, suggesting that scavenging mtROS during development enhanced growth rates but at the expense of cellular turnover. Our study confirms the central role of mitochondria modulating life-history trade-offs during development by other mechanisms than mtROS-inflicted damage.
Ascorbic acid stimulates the in vitro myoblast proliferation and migration of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus)
Authors: Duran Bruno Oliveira Silva , Góes Guilherme Alcarás , Zanella Bruna Tereza Thomazini , Freire Paula Paccielli , Valente Jessica Silvino , Salomão Rondinelle Artur Simões , Fernandes Ana , Mareco Edson Assunção , Carvalho Robson Francisco , Dal-Pai-Silva Maeli
Published: February 2019

The postembryonic growth of skeletal muscle in teleost fish involves myoblast proliferation, migration and differentiation, encompassing the main events of embryonic myogenesis. Ascorbic acid plays important cellular and biochemical roles as an antioxidant and contributes to the proper collagen biosynthesis necessary for the structure of connective and bone tissues. However, whether ascorbic acid can directly influence the mechanisms of fish myogenesis and skeletal muscle growth remains unclear. The aim of our work was to evaluate the effects of ascorbic acid supplementation on the in vitro myoblast proliferation and migration of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). To provide insight into the potential antioxidant role of ascorbic acid, we also treated myoblasts in vitro with menadione, which is a powerful oxidant. Our results show that ascorbic acid-supplemented myoblasts exhibit increased proliferation and migration and are protected against the oxidative stress caused by menadione. In addition, ascorbic acid increased the activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase and the expression of myog and mtor, which are molecular markers related to skeletal muscle myogenesis and protein synthesis, respectively. This work reveals a direct influence of ascorbic acid on the mechanisms of pacu myogenesis and highlights the potential use of ascorbic acid for stimulating fish skeletal muscle growth.
Pronounced and reversible modulation of the piezoelectric coefficients by a low magnetic field in a magnetoelectric PZT-5%Fe3O4 system
Authors: Vertsioti G. , Zhang S. J. , Stamopoulos D.
Published: February 2019

Composite magnetoelectric compounds that combine ferroelectricity/piezoelectricity and ferromagnetism/magnetostriction are investigated intensively for room-temperature applications. Here, we studied bulk composites of a magnetostrictive constituent, ferromagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles, homogeneously embedded in a ferroelectric/piezoelectric matrix, Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 (PZT). Specifically, we focused on PZT-5%Fe3O4 samples which are strongly insulating and thus sustain a relatively high out-of-plane external electric field, Eex,z. The in-plane strain-electric field curve (S(Eex,z)) was carefully recorded upon successive application and removal of an out-of-plane external magnetic field, Hex,z. The obtained S(Eex,z) data exhibited two main features. First, the respective in-plane piezoelectric coefficients, d(Eex,z) = 200–250 pm/V, show a dramatic decrease, 50–60%, upon application of a relatively low Hex,z = 1 kOe. Second, the process is completely reversible since the initial value of d(Eex,z) is recovered upon removal of Hex,z. Polarization data, P(Eex,z), evidenced that the Fe3O4 nanoparticles introduced static structural disorder that made PZT harder. Taken together, these results prove that the Fe3O4 nanoparticles, except for static structural disorder, introduce reconfigurable magnetic disorder that modifies the in-plane S(Eex,z) curve and the accompanying d(Eex,z) of PZT when an external magnetic field is applied at will. The room-temperature feasibility of these findings renders the PZT-x%Fe3O4 system a solid basis for the development of magnetic-field-controlled PE devices.
First Detection of DS-1-like G1P[8] Double-gene Reassortant Rotavirus Strains on The American Continent, Brazil, 2013
Authors: Luchs Adriana , da Costa Antonio Charlys , Cilli Audrey , Komninakis Shirley Cavalcante Vasconcelos , Carmona Rita de Cássia Compagnoli , Morillo Simone Guadagnucci , Sabino Ester Cerdeira , Timenetsky Maria do Carmo Sampaio Tavares
Published: February 2019

Emergence of DS-1-like-G1P[8] rotavirus in Asia have been recently reported. We report for the first time the detection and the whole genome phylogenetic analysis of DS-1-like-G1P[8] strains in America. From 2013 to 2017, a total of 4226 fecal samples were screened for rotavirus by ELISA, PAGE, RT-PCR and sequencing. G1P[8] represented 3.7% (30/800) of all rotavirus-positive samples. DS-1-like-G1P[8] comprised 1.6% (13/800) detected exclusively in 2013, and Wa-like-G1P[8] comprised 2.1% (17/800) detected from 2013 to 2015. Whole genome sequencing confirmed the DS-1-like backbone I2-R2-C2-M2-A2-N2-T2-E2-H2. All genome segments of the Brazilian DS-1-like-G1P[8] strains clustered with those of Asian strains, and apart from African DS-1-like-G1P[8] strains. In addition, Brazilian DS-1-like-G1P[8] reassortants distantly clustered with DS-1-like backbone strains simultaneously circulating in the country, suggesting that the Brazilian DS-1-like-G1P[8] strains are likely imported from Asia. Two distinct NSP4 E2 genotype lineages were also identified, indicating the existence of a co-circulating pool of different DS-1-like G1P[8] strains. Surveillance systems must be developed to examine if RVA vaccines are still effective for the prevention against unusual DS-1-like-G1P[8] strains.
Increased temperatures and elevated CO2 levels reduce the sensitivity of Conyza canadensis and Chenopodium album to glyphosate
Authors: Matzrafi Maor , Brunharo Caio , Tehranchian Parsa , Hanson Bradley D. , Jasieniuk Marie
Published: February 2019

Herbicides are the most commonly used means of controlling weeds. Recently, there has been growing concern over the potential impacts of global climate change, specifically, increasing temperatures and elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations, on the sensitivity of weeds to herbicides. Here, glyphosate response of both Conyza canadensis and Chenopodium album was evaluated under different environmental conditions. Reduced glyphosate sensitivity was observed in both species in response to increased temperature, elevated CO2 level, and the combination of both factors. Increased temperature had greater effect on plant survival than elevated CO2 level. In combination, high temperature and elevated CO2 level resulted in loss of apical dominance and rapid necrosis in glyphosate-treated plants. To investigate the mechanistic basis of reduced glyphosate sensitivity, translocation was examined using 14C-glyphosate. In plants that were subjected to high temperatures and elevated CO2 level, glyphosate was more rapidly translocated out of the treated leaf to shoot meristems and roots than in plants grown under control conditions. These results suggest that altered glyphosate translocation and tissue-specific sequestration may be the basis of reduced plant sensitivity. Therefore, overreliance on glyphosate for weed control under changing climatic conditions may result in more weed control failures.
Changes of temporomandibular joint position after surgery first orthognathic treatment concept
Authors: Holzinger Daniel , Willinger Katrin , Millesi Gabriele , Schicho Kurt , Breuss Elisabeth , Wagner Florian , Seemann Rudolf
Published: February 2019

Orthognathic surgery treatment (OGS) after orthodontic treatment of dentofacial deformities is a widely performed procedure, often accompanied by a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO). Positioning of the condyle during this procedure is a crucial step for achieving optimal functional and anatomical results. Intraoperatively poorly positioned condyles can have a negative effect on the postoperative result and the patient’s well-being. Changes of the condylar position during OGS Procedures and its effects on the temporomandibular joint in orthognathic surgical interventions (OGS) are subject of scientific discussions. However, up to date, no study has investigated the role of condyle position in the surgery first treatment concept. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of OGS on the three-dimensional position of the condyle in the joint in a surgery first treatment concept without positioning device and to record the change in position quantitatively and qualitatively. Analysis of our data indicated that OGS in surgery first treatment concept has no significant effect on the position of the condyle and the anatomy of the temporomandibular joint.
The Endobiota Study: Comparison of Vaginal, Cervical and Gut Microbiota Between Women with Stage 3/4 Endometriosis and Healthy Controls
Authors: Ata Baris , Yildiz Sule , Turkgeldi Engin , Brocal Vicente Pérez , Dinleyici Ener Cagri , Moya Andrés , Urman Bulent
Published: February 2019

Dysbiosis in the genital tract or gut microbiome can be associated with endometriosis. We sampled vaginal, cervical and gut microbiota from 14 women with histology proven stage 3/4 endometriosis and 14 healthy controls. The V3 and V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified following the 16S Metagenomic Sequencing Library Preparation. Despite overall similar vaginal, cervical and intestinal microbiota composition between stage 3/4 endometriosis group and controls, we observed differences at genus level. The complete absence of Atopobium in the vaginal and cervical microbiota of the stage 3/4 endometriosis group was noteworthy. In the cervical microbiota, Gardnerella, Streptococcus, Escherichia, Shigella, and Ureoplasma, all of which contain potentially pathogenic species, were increased in stage 3/4 endometriosis. More women in the stage 3/4 endometriosis group had Shigella/Escherichia dominant stool microbiome. Further studies can clarify whether the association is causal, and whether dysbiosis leads to endometriosis or endometriosis leads to dysbiosis.
Membrane charge and lipid packing determine polymyxin-induced membrane damage
Authors: Khondker Adree , Dhaliwal Alexander K. , Saem Sokunthearath , Mahmood Ahmad , Fradin Cécile , Moran-Mirabal Jose , Rheinstädter Maikel C.
Published: February 2019

With the advent of polymyxin B (PmB) resistance in bacteria, the mechanisms for mcr-1 resistance are of crucial importance in the design of novel therapeutics. The mcr-1 phenotype is known to decrease membrane charge and increase membrane packing by modification of the bacterial outer membrane. We used X-ray diffraction, Molecular Dynamics simulations, electrochemistry, and leakage assays to determine the location of PmB in different membranes and assess membrane damage. By varying membrane charge and lipid tail packing independently, we show that increasing membrane surface charge promotes penetration of PmB and membrane damage, whereas increasing lipid packing decreases penetration and damage. The penetration of the PmB molecules is well described by a phenomenological model that relates an attractive electrostatic and a repulsive force opposing insertion due to increased membrane packing. The model applies well to several gram-negative bacterial strains and may be used to predict resistance strength.
Quantitative intrinsic auto-cathodoluminescence can resolve spectral signatures of tissue-isolated collagen extracellular matrix
Authors: Zielinski Marcin S. , Vardar Elif , Vythilingam Ganesh , Engelhardt Eva-Maria , Hubbell Jeffrey A. , Frey Peter , Larsson Hans M.
Published: February 2019

By analyzing isolated collagen gel samples, we demonstrated in situ detection of spectrally deconvoluted auto-cathodoluminescence signatures of specific molecular content with precise spatial localization over a maximum field of view of 300 µm. Correlation of the secondary electron and the hyperspectral images proved ~40 nm resolution in the optical channel, obtained due to a short carrier diffusion length, suppressed by fibril dimensions and poor electrical conductivity specific to their organic composition. By correlating spectrally analyzed auto-cathodoluminescence with mass spectroscopy data, we differentiated spectral signatures of two extracellular matrices, namely human fibrin complex and rat tail collagen isolate, and uncovered differences in protein distributions of isolated extracellular matrix networks of heterogeneous populations. Furthermore, we demonstrated that cathodoluminescence can monitor the progress of a human cell-mediated remodeling process, where human collagenous matrix was deposited within a rat collagenous matrix. The revealed change of the heterogeneous biological composition was confirmed by mass spectroscopy.
Metal–organic framework-based nanomaterials for adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of gaseous pollutants: recent progress and challenges
Authors: Wen Meicheng , Li Guiying , Liu Hongli , Chen Jiangyao , An Taicheng , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: February 2019

Design and engineering of metal–organic frameworks for the adsorption/degradation of inorganic toxic gases, organic vapors and particulate matter.
Kinetics, energetics, and size dependence of the transformation from Pt to ordered PtSn intermetallic nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Minda , Han Yong , Goh Tian Wei , Sun Rong , Maligal-Ganesh Raghu V. , Pei Yuchen , Tsung Chia-Kuang , Evans James W. , Huang Wenyu
Published: February 2019

Well-defined Pt nanoparticles encapsulated in mesoporous silica allow us to demonstrate the transformation mechanism/kinetics from monometallic Pt to intermetallic PtSn.
The structure and photoluminescence of a ZnO phosphor synthesized by the sol gel method under praseodymium doping
Authors: Rhouma F. I. H. , Belkhiria F. , Bouzaiene E. , Daoudi M. , Taibi K. , Dhahri J. , Chtourou R.
Published: February 2019

This work outlines some interesting results regarding the effects of Pr3+ substitution on the structural and optical properties of (x = 0 and 0.02) samples.
Ultra-high adsorption of cationic methylene blue on two dimensional titanate nanosheets
Authors: Yuan Huiyu , Ma Sainan , Wang Xinyu , Long Hui , Zhao Xinhua , Yang Daoyuan , Lo Wai Hung , Tsang Yuen Hong
Published: February 2019

2D titanate nanosheets show ultra-high adsorption for methylene blue.
Effects of activated charcoal-herb extractum complex on the growth performance, immunological indices, intestinal morphology and microflora in weaning piglets
Authors: Wang Liqi , Gong Limin , Zhu Lin , Peng Chucai , Liao Jianling , Ke Linfu , Dong Bing
Published: February 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of activated charcoal-herb extractum complex (CHC) on the growth performance, immunological indices, intestinal morphology and microflora in weaning piglets to determine the optimal supplemental dose.
Dithiane-directed Rh(iii)-catalyzed amidation of unactivated C(sp3)–H bonds
Authors: Shi Heyao , Dixon Darren J.
Published: February 2019

A Rh(iii) catalysed dithiane directed C(sp3)–H amidation for the synthesis of usefully protected β-aminoaldehyde derivatives is described.
Insights into the role of noncovalent interactions in distal functionalization of the aryl C(sp2)–H bond
Authors: Unnikrishnan Anju , Sunoj Raghavan B.
Published: February 2019

How a series of noncovalent interactions (NCIs) determine the regiochemical outcome in a distal sp2 C–H functionalization reaction is presented.
Enhancing stability and efficiency of oxygen reduction reaction in polymer electrolyte fuel cells with high surface area mesoporous carbon synthesized from spent mushroom compost
Authors: Dhanasekaran P. , Shukla Avanish , Krishnan K. Navaneetha , Rongrin Ibadahunshisha , Selvaganesh S. Vinod , Kalpana D. , Bhat S. D.
Published: February 2019

Activated mesoporous carbon obtained from spent mushroom compost as a catalyst support provides enhanced long-term durability during the oxygen reduction reaction.
3D-porous electrocatalytic foam based on Pt@N-doped graphene for high performance and durable polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells
Authors: Karuppanan Karthikeyan K. , Raghu Appu V. , Panthalingal Manoj Kumar , Thiruvenkatam Vijayaraghavan , P. Karthikeyan , Pullithadathil Biji
Published: February 2019

A new class of sustainable electrocatalysts based on Pt@N-doped graphene foam is developed for the oxygen reduction reaction of PEMFCs.
ZnO-nitrogen doped carbon derived from a zeolitic imidazolate framework as an efficient counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Ahmed Abdelaal S. A. , Xiang Wanchun , Amiinu Ibrahim Saana , Li Ziying , Yu Ruohan , Zhao Xiujian
Published: February 2019

ZnO-nitrogen doped carbon (ZnO-NC) derived ZIF-8 mixed with polystyrenesulfonate-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT:PSS) employed as an efficient catalyst in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
An open thermo-electrochemical cell enabled by interfacial evaporation
Authors: Shen Qingchen , Ning Ziyang , Fu Benwei , Ma Shuai , Wang Zhiying , Shu Lei , Zhang Lifu , Wang Xinyu , Xu Jiale , Tao Peng , Song Chengyi , Wu Jianbo , Deng Tao , Shang Wen
Published: February 2019

An open thermo-electrochemical cell (TEC) demonstrated the parallel processes of both clean water generation and electricity generation.
Convenient preparation of CsSnI3 quantum dots, excellent stability, and the highest performance of lead-free inorganic perovskite solar cells so far
Authors: Wang Yangyang , Tu Jin , Li Tianhao , Tao Cheng , Deng Xianyu , Li Zhen
Published: February 2019

A novel convenient and efficient approach to produce CsSnI3 QDs through a one-pot synthesis is employed to largely enhance the PCE of lead-free perovskite solar cells (PVSCs). The CsSnI3 QD-based device has the maximum PCE of 5.03%, which is the highest performance for all-inorganic lead-free PVSCs reported so far.
A robust and flexible bulk superhydrophobic material from silicone rubber/silica gel prepared by thiol–ene photopolymerization
Authors: Li Yongsheng , Ren Meng , Lv Pengfei , Liu Yinzhi , Shao Hong , Wang Cong , Tang Changyu , Zhou Yuanlin , Shuai Maobing
Published: February 2019

A durable bulk superhydrophobic film based on silicone rubber/silica was prepared by UV curing followed by solvent evaporation.
Spray-pyrolysis-assisted synthesis of yolk@shell anatase with rich oxygen vacancies for efficient sodium storage
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Xu Linhan , Chen Qiang , Hu Ping , Liu Zhenhui , Yu Qiang , Zhu Ting , Liu Huancheng , Hu Guangwu , Zhu Zizhong , Zhou Liang , Mai Liqiang
Published: February 2019

Yolk@shell structured TiO2−x with rich oxygen vacancies manifests high specific capacity and excellent cyclability in sodium storage.
A 3D flexible and robust HAPs/PVA separator prepared by a freezing-drying method for safe lithium metal batteries
Authors: Wang Wei , Liao Can , Liew Kim Meow , Chen Zonghai , Song Lei , Kan Yongchun , Hu Yuan
Published: February 2019

A freeze-drying method is firstly used to prepare a flexible and robust HAPs/PVA separator for stable, safe and sustainable Li metal batteries.
Halogen bonding reduces intrinsic traps and enhances charge mobilities in halide perovskite solar cells
Authors: Bi Shiqing , Wang Hui , Zhou Jiyu , You Shuai , Zhang Yuan , Shi Xinghua , Tang Zhiyong , Zhou Huiqiong
Published: February 2019

Based an additive process, we demonstrate control over the crystallographic growth kinetics in polycrystalline perovskites with achieving high efficiency and stable perovskite solar cells.
Self-supported ultrathin bismuth nanosheets acquired by in situ topotactic transformation of BiOCl as a high performance aqueous anode material
Authors: Zhu Qiancheng , Cheng Mingyu , Yang Xianfeng , Zhang Bing , Wan Zhanzi , Xiao Qin , Yu Ying
Published: February 2019

Aqueous rechargeable batteries are attractive because of their low cost, high operational safety and environmental benignity.
Toward CO2 utilization for direct power generation using an integrated system consisting of CO2 photoreduction with 3D TiO2/Ni-foam and a photocatalytic fuel cell
Authors: Jiao Long , Xie Fengjia , Chen Rong , Ye Dingding , Zhang Biao , An Liang , Yu Youxu , Li Jinwang
Published: February 2019

An integrated system consisting of CO2 photoreduction with 3D TiO2/Ni-foam and a PFC for direct electricity generation.
Tin(ii) thiocyanate Sn(NCS)2 – a wide band gap coordination polymer semiconductor with a 2D structure
Authors: Wechwithayakhlung Chayanit , Packwood Daniel M. , Chaopaknam Jidapa , Worakajit Pimpisut , Ittisanronnachai Somlak , Chanlek Narong , Promarak Vinich , Kongpatpanich Kanokwan , Harding David J. , Pattanasattayavong Pichaya
Published: February 2019

A coordination polymer semiconductor based on tin(ii) thiocyanate having high transparency is reported.