bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulations of Electron Energization and Injection by BBFs Using High‐Resolution LFM MHD Fields
Authors: Eshetu W. W. , Lyon J. G. , Hudson M. K. , Wiltberger M. J.
Published: February 2019

We study electron injection and energization by bursty bulk flows (BBFs), by tracing electron trajectories using magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) field output from the Lyon‐Fedder‐Mobarry (LFM) code. The LFM MHD simulations were performed using idealized solar wind conditions to produce BBFs. We show that BBFs can inject energetic electrons of few to 100 keV from the magnetotatail beyond −24 RE to inward of geosynchronous, while accelerating them in the process. We also show the dependence of energization and injection on the initial relative position of the electrons to the magnetic field structure of the BBF, the initial pitch angle, and the initial energy. In addition, we have shown that the process can be nonadiabatic with violation of the first adiabatic invariant (μ). Further, we discuss the mechanism of energization and injection in order to give generalized insight into the process.
The Morphology of the Topside Martian Ionosphere: Implications on Bulk Ion Flow
Authors: Wu X.‐S. , Cui J. , Xu S. S. , Lillis R. J. , Yelle R. V. , Edberg N. J. T. , Vigren E. , Rong Z.‐J. , Fan K. , Guo J.‐P. , Cao Y.‐T. , Jiang F.‐Y. , Wei Y. , Mitchell D. L.
Published: February 2019

Prior to the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution mission, the only information on the composition of the Martian ionosphere came from the Viking Retarding Potential Analyzer data, revealing the presence of substantial ion outflow on the dayside of Mars. Extensive measurements made by the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer allow us to examine the morphology of the Martian ionosphere not only in unprecedented detail but also on both the dayside and the nightside of the planet. Above 300 km, various ionospheric species present a roughly constant density scale height around 100 km on the dayside and 180 km on the nightside. An evaluation of the ion force balance, appropriate for regions with near‐horizontal magnetic field lines, suggests the presence of supersonic ion outflow predominantly driven by the ambient magnetic pressure, with characteristic dayside and nightside flow velocities of 4 and 20 km/s, respectively, both referred to an altitude of 500 km. The corresponding total ion outflow rates are estimated to be 5 × 1025 s−1 on the dayside and 1 × 1025 s−1 on the nightside. The data also indicate a prominent variation with magnetic field orientation in that the ion distribution over regions with near‐vertical field lines tends to be more extended on the dayside but more concentrated on the nightside, as compared to regions with near‐horizontal field lines. These observations should have important implications on the pattern of ion dynamics in the vicinity of Mars.
Modeling of Seasonal Lake Level Fluctuations of Titan's Seas/Lakes
Authors: Tokano Tetsuya , Lorenz Ralph D.
Published: February 2019

Seasonal variations in lake levels of Titan's hydrocarbon seas/lakes are predicted by an ocean circulation model in an effort to understand the observed temporal changes in lake size or lack thereof. Three different ground permeabilities are assumed so as to change the relative importance of precipitation, evaporation, river runoff, and groundwater seepage for the lake methane budget. The lake level generally rises in the rainy season around the summer solstice and falls or stagnates during long dry periods in autumn and winter. The annual lake level range in the northern hemisphere amounts to 50–120 cm depending on geographic location and size of the lakes and ground permeability. If the hydraulic connection between Punga Mare and Kraken Mare is weak, the lake level range of Punga Mare amplifies at the expense of other seas and also establishes a large lake level difference between these two seas, which is not compatible with the observation by the Cassini spacecraft. On‐lake precipitation would cause the lake level of Ontario Lacus to vary seasonally by merely 15 cm, yet river runoff from the huge catchment area can increase the annual lake level range to several meters. The shrinkage of Ontario Lacus observed by Cassini is more likely to be caused by lakebed seepage than by evaporation. The ultimate cause of the difference in the seasonal behavior between northern and southern lakes may be the hemispheric asymmetry in precipitation, be it caused astronomically or topographically.
Analysis of whole genome-transcriptomic organization in brain to identify genes associated with alcoholism
Authors: Kapoor Manav , Wang Jen-Chyong , Farris Sean P. , Liu Yunlong , McClintick Jeanette , Gupta Ishaan , Meyers Jacquelyn L. , Bertelsen Sarah , Chao Michael , Nurnberger John , Tischfield Jay , Harari Oscar , Zeran Li , Hesselbrock Victor , Bauer Lance , Raj Towfique , Porjesz Bernice , Agrawal Arpana , Foroud Tatiana , Edenberg Howard J. , Mayfield R. Dayne , Goate Alison
Published: February 2019

Alcohol exposure triggers changes in gene expression and biological pathways in human brain. We explored alterations in gene expression in the Pre-Frontal Cortex (PFC) of 65 alcoholics and 73 controls of European descent, and identified 129 genes that showed altered expression (FDR < 0.05) in subjects with alcohol dependence. Differentially expressed genes were enriched for pathways related to interferon signaling and Growth Arrest and DNA Damage-inducible 45 (GADD45) signaling. A coexpression module (thistle2) identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was significantly correlated with alcohol dependence, alcohol consumption, and AUDIT scores. Genes in the thistle2 module were enriched with genes related to calcium signaling pathways and showed significant downregulation of these pathways, as well as enrichment for biological processes related to nicotine response and opioid signaling. A second module (brown4) showed significant upregulation of pathways related to immune signaling. Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) for genes in the brown4 module were also enriched for genetic associations with alcohol dependence and alcohol consumption in large genome-wide studies included in the Psychiatric Genetic Consortium and the UK Biobank’s alcohol consumption dataset. By leveraging multi-omics data, this transcriptome analysis has identified genes and biological pathways that could provide insight for identifying therapeutic targets for alcohol dependence.
Perceptions of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage in different policy scenarios
Authors: Bellamy Rob , Lezaun Javier , Palmer James
Published: February 2019

There is growing interest in bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) as a possible technology for removing CO2 from the atmosphere. In the first study of its kind, we investigate whether and how different forms of incentivisation impact on public perceptions of this technology. We develop a new experimental method to triangulate perceptions of BECCS in different policy scenarios through quantitative measurement and qualitative elicitation. Here we show that the type of policy instrument used to incentivise BECCS significantly affects perceptions of the technology itself. While we find approval of coercive and persuasion-based policy scenarios for incentivisation, supportive instruments proved polarising. Payments based on the amount of CO2 removed from the atmosphere were approved, but guarantees of higher prices for producers selling energy derived from BECCS were strongly opposed. We conclude that public support for BECCS is inextricably linked to attitudes towards the policies through which it is incentivised.
Modulation of Intestinal Epithelial Permeability by Plasma from Patients with Crohn’s Disease in a Three-dimensional Cell Culture Model
Authors: Xu Pan , Elamin Elhaseen , Elizalde Montserrat , Bours Paul P. H. A. , Pierik Marieke J. , Masclee Ad A. M. , Jonkers Daisy M. A. E.
Published: February 2019

Intestinal epithelial barrier is affected by multiple factors, such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Plasma concentration of TNF-α is higher in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) than healthy controls (HC) and correlates positively with disease activity. This study aimed to determine the effect of plasma from active, inactive CD patients on intestinal barrier function and to investigate the underlying mechanism. Plasma samples were collected from CD patients and HC. 3D Caco-2 cysts were treated with plasma or TNF-α, with or without pre-incubation of adalimumab (a monoclonal antibody that antagonizes TNF-α) or JNK inhibitor SP600125. The results demonstrated that exposure of the cysts to plasma from CD patients resulted in enhanced paracellular permeability in a disease activity-dependent manner. Compared to HC, active CD plasma decreased ZO-1 and OCCLUDIN expression on mRNA and protein levels, and led to an increased JNK phosphorylation. Pre-incubation with adalimumab or SP600125 ameliorated TJ disruption and barrier dysfunction induced by plasma from CD patients. These results indicate that plasma from CD patients is able to induce epithelial barrier disruption, in part through TNF-α induced TJs modulation. The data also demonstrate an involvement of MAPK pathway, in particular the JNK isoform, in CD patient plasma-induced barrier dysfunction.
Bushen Yijing Fang Reduces Fall Risk in Late Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A Randomized Double-blind and Placebo-controlled Trial
Authors: Zheng Yuxin , Wang Xuezong , Zhang Zong-Kang , Guo Baosheng , Dang Lei , He Bing , Zhang Chi , Zhou Jiwei , Shi Wanzhong , Zhao Yongfang , Zhan Hongsheng , Xu Yu , Liang Chao , Liu Jin , Guan Daogang , Wang Luyao , Wu Xiaohao , Li Jie , Zhuo Zhenjian , Lin Zhixiu , Qiu Hong , Zhong Lidan , Bian Zhaoxiang , Shi Yinyu , Zhang Bao-Ting , Zhang Ge , Lu Aiping
Published: February 2019

Falls in late postmenopausal women with osteopenia usually cause fractures with severe consequences. This 36-month randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial with a 10-year observational follow-up study aimed to investigate the long-term effect of herbal formula Bushen Yijing Fang (BSYJF) on fall risk in the late postmenopausal women with osteopenia. 140 late postmenopausal women (Femoral neck T-score, −2.5~−2 SD) were recruited and randomized to orally receive calcium carbonate 300 mg daily with either BSYJF or placebo for 36 months. The effect was further investigated for another 10-year follow-up. During the 36-month administration, there were 12 falls in BSYJF group and 28 falls in placebo group, respectively, indicating 64% lower risk of falls (RR 0.36 [95% CI, 0.18 to 0.71]; P = 0.004) in BSYJF group. During the 10-year follow-up, 36% lower fall risk (RR 0.64 [95% CI, 0.46 to 0.89]; P = 0.009) was observed in BSYJF group. No significant difference was found in safety profile between two groups. Thirty-six-month administration of BSYJF reduced fall risk with an increase in bone mass, and its latent effect on fall risk was continually observed in the 10-year follow-up in late postmenopausal women with osteopenia. This clinical trial was registered at Chinese clinical trial registry (ChiCTR-IOR-16008942).
A mutagenesis analysis of Tim50, the major receptor of the TIM23 complex, identifies regions that affect its interaction with Tim23
Authors: Dayan Dana , Bandel May , Günsel Umut , Nussbaum Inbal , Prag Gali , Mokranjac Dejana , Neupert Walter , Azem Abdussalam
Published: February 2019

Maintenance of the mitochondrial proteome depends on import of newly made proteins from the cytosol. More than half of mitochondrial proteins are made as precursor proteins with N-terminal extensions called presequences and use the TIM23 complex for translocation into the matrix, the inner mitochondrial membrane and the intermembrane space (IMS). Tim50 is the central receptor of the complex that recognizes precursor proteins in the IMS. Additionally, Tim50 interacts with the IMS domain of the channel forming subunit, Tim23, an interaction that is essential for protein import across the mitochondrial inner membrane. In order to gain deeper insight into the molecular function of Tim50, we used random mutagenesis to determine residues that are important for its function. The temperature-sensitive mutants isolated were defective in import of TIM23-dependent precursor proteins. The residues mutated map to two distinct patches on the surface of Tim50. Notably, mutations in both patches impaired the interaction of Tim50 with Tim23. We propose that two regions of Tim50 play a role in its interaction with Tim23 and thereby affect the import function of the complex.
Machine vision benefits from human contextual expectations
Authors: Katti Harish , Peelen Marius V. , Arun S. P.
Published: February 2019

Scene context is known to facilitate object recognition in both machines and humans, suggesting that the underlying representations may be similar. Alternatively, they may be qualitatively different since the training experience of machines and humans are strikingly different. Machines are typically trained on images containing objects and their context, whereas humans frequently experience scenes without objects (such as highways without cars). If these context representations are indeed different, machine vision algorithms will be improved on augmenting them with human context representations, provided these expectations can be measured and are systematic. Here, we developed a paradigm to measure human contextual expectations. We asked human subjects to indicate the scale, location and likelihood at which cars or people might occur in scenes without these objects. This yielded highly systematic expectations that we could then accurately predict using scene features. This allowed us to predict human expectations on novel scenes without requiring explicit measurements. Next we augmented decisions made by deep neural networks with these predicted human expectations and obtained substantial gains in accuracy for detecting cars and people (1–3%) as well as on detecting associated objects (3–20%). In contrast, augmenting deep network decisions with other conventional computer vision features yielded far smaller gains. Taken together, our results show that augmenting deep neural networks with human-derived contextual expectations improves their performance, suggesting that contextual representations are qualitatively different in humans and deep neural networks.
miR-302a inhibits human HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells proliferation and promotes apoptosis by targeting MAP3K2 and PBX3
Authors: Wang Meng , Lv Guoyue , Jiang Chao , Xie Shuli , Wang Guangyi
Published: February 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer and has a poor prognosis. miR-302a is an important regulator of tumor occurrence and deterioration, while MAP3K2 and PBX3 genes are involved in cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis. In this study, the expression of miR-302a and MAP3K2/PBX3 were evaluated by qPCR in liver cancer cell lines. Next, the target relationship between miR-302a and MAP3K2/PBX3 was verified using luciferase assays. Meanwhile, the expression correlation between miR-302a and target genes was analyzed in cancer tissue and para-cancerous tissue. In addition, an increased miR-302a level in HepG2 cells and SMMC-7721 cells were achieved through transfection with miR-302a mimics, and the effects on HepG2 cell and SMMC-7721 cell proliferation, apoptosis and MAPK pathways were determined using MTT, flow cytometry, qPCR and western blot assays. The results showed that liver cancer cell lines exhibited low miR-302a expression and MAP3K2 and PBX3 were confirmed to be the target genes of miR-302a. Meanwhile, the HE results showed that cells became enlarged with loose cytoplasm and formed balloon-like lesions in HCC specimens and we found a significant negative correlation between miR-302a and MAP3K2/PBX3 expression. In addition, treatment with miR-302a mimics inhibited HepG2 cells and SMMC-7721 cells proliferation and increased the apoptosis rate. Further research revealed that the MAPK key factors p-p38, p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK were significantly reduced in miR-302a transfected cells and MAP3K2/PBX3 silenced cells. Besides, MAP3K2 and PBX3 overexpression in miR-302a mimics-treated cells exerted the opposite effects. In conclusion, miR-302a inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis in human hepatoma cells by targeting MAP3K2 and PBX3.
Longitudinal association of carotid endothelial shear stress with renal function decline in aging adults with normal renal function: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Zhao Yingxin , Dong Yuanli , Wang Juan , Sheng Lin , Chai Qiang , Zhang Hua , Liu Zhendong
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between carotid wall shear stress (WSS) and renal function impairment (RFI) and albuminuria in aging adults. A total of 1,447 subjects aged 60 years and older with normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR ≥ 60 mL·min−1·1.72 m−2) and albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR < 30 mg·g−1) were enrolled between April 2007 and October 2009 in the Shandong area, China. Carotid WSS was assessed at baseline, and eGFR, which is based on serum creatinine and cystatin C, and ACR were assessed at baseline and at the annual follow-up visits. After an average of 62.9 months of follow-up, the reduction in eGFR and the increase in ACR were significantly higher in the Q1+2+3 group than the Q4 group, as classified by either the interquartile of the mean WSS or the interquartile of the peak WSS after adjustment for multi-variabilities, including the average blood pressures at every annual visit and baseline eGFR and ACR. For groups classified by mean WSS, the hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 3.45 (1.36–8.75, p = 0.008) in the incident RFI and 3.24 3.22 (1.37–7.57, p = 0.009) in the incident albuminuria for the Q1+2+3 group compared with the Q4 group. Similar results were observed among groups classified by peak WSS. The Q1+2+3 group was associated with endothelial dysfunction and inflammation with respect to the Q4 group as classified by mean or peak WSS. The results indicate that carotid WSS plays an important role in RFI and albuminuria progression in aging adults. Lower WSS was associated with a higher risk of RFI and albuminuria compared with higher WSS.
The ultra-photostable and electrically modulated Stimulated Emission in perylene-based dye doped liquid crystal
Authors: Adamow A. , Sznitko L. , Chrzumnicka E. , Stachera J. , Szukalski A. , Martynski T. , Mysliwiec J.
Published: February 2019

One of the most important drawback of organic dyes is their low photo-stability which reduces possibility of their commercial utilization. In this article we employ the strategy of dye re-crystallization from oversaturated matrix in order to enhance material’s durability. One of the main advantages of perylene derivative is ability to form emissive j-aggregates, good miscibility and incorporation into liquid crystalline matrix. Investigation of perylene-based dye and LC matrix brought as the result very efficient light amplification modulation by applied external electric field. In our article we show that Stimulated Emission (STE) is possible to achieve from perylene-derivative based system, at typical fluence thresholds for laser dyes: 3.9 mJ/cm2. Moreover, presented system proves ultra-high photostability, showing lack of STE reduction even after 12 000 excitation laser pulses. Furthermore, we proved the possibility of light emission intensity control using external electric field.
Fine-mapping sequence mutations with a major effect on oligosaccharide content in bovine milk
Authors: Liu Zhiqian , Wang Tingting , Pryce Jennie E. , MacLeod Iona M. , Hayes Ben J. , Chamberlain Amanda J. , Jagt Christy Vander , Reich Coralie M. , Mason Brett A. , Rochfort Simone , Cocks Benjamin G.
Published: February 2019

Human milk contains abundant oligosaccharides (OS) which are believed to have strong health benefits for neonates. OS are a minor component of bovine milk and little is known about how the production of OS is regulated in the bovine mammary gland. We have measured the abundance of 12 major OS in milk of 360 cows, which had high density SNP marker genotypes. Most of the OS were found to be highly heritable (h2 between 50 and 84%). A genome-wide association study allowed us to fine-map several QTL and identify candidate genes with major effects on five OS. Among them, a putative causal mutation close to the ABO gene on Chromosome 11 accounted for approximately 80% of genetic variance for two OS, N-acetylgalactosaminyllactose and lacto-N-neotetraose. This mutation lies very close to a variant associated with the expression levels of ABO. A third QTL mapped close to ST3GAL6 on Chromosome 1 explaining 33% of genetic variation of an abundant OS, 3′-sialyllactose. The presence of major gene effects suggests that targeted marker-assisted selection would lead to a significant increase in the level of these OS in milk. This is the first attempt to map candidate genes and causal mutations for bovine milk OS.
Planktonic food web structure and trophic transfer efficiency along a productivity gradient in the tropical and subtropical Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Armengol Laia , Calbet Albert , Franchy Gara , Rodríguez-Santos Adriana , Hernández-León Santiago
Published: February 2019

Oligotrophic and productive areas of the ocean differ in plankton community composition and biomass transfer efficiency. Here, we describe the plankton community along a latitudinal transect in the tropical and subtropical Atlantic Ocean. Prochlorococcus dominated the autotrophic community at the surface and mixed layer of oligotrophic stations, replaced by phototrophic picoeukaryotes and Synechococcus in productive waters. Depth-integrated biomass of microzooplankton was higher than mesozooplankton at oligotrophic stations, showing similar biomasses in productive waters. Dinoflagellates dominated in oligotrophic waters but ciliates dominated upwelling regions. In oligotrophic areas, microzooplankton consumed ca. 80% of the production, but ca. 66% in upwelling zones. Differences in microzooplankton and phytoplankton communities explain microzooplankton diel feeding rhythms: higher grazing rates during daylight in oligotrophic areas and diffuse grazing patterns in productive waters. Oligotrophic areas were more efficient at recycling and using nutrients through phytoplankton, while the energy transfer efficiency from nutrients to mesozooplankton appeared more efficient in productive waters. Our results support the classic paradigm of a shorter food web, and more efficient energy transfer towards upper food web levels in productive regions, but a microbially dominated, and very efficient, food web in oligotrophic regions. Remarkably, both models of food web exist under very high microzooplankton herbivory.
Nematicidal and insecticidal activities of halogenated indoles
Authors: Rajasekharan Satish Kumar , Lee Jin-Hyung , Ravichandran Vinothkannan , Kim Jin-Cheol , Park Jae Gyu , Lee Jintae
Published: February 2019

Parasite death via ion channel activations is the hallmark of anthelmintic and antiparasitic drugs. Glutamate gated chloride channel (GluCl) is a prominent targets for drug selection and design in parasitology. We report several iodine-fluorine based lead activators of GluCl by computational studies and structure-activity relationship analysis. 5-Fluoro-4-iodo-1H-pyrrolo [2, 3-b] pyridine and 5-iodoindole were bioactive hits that displayed in vitro anthelmintic and insecticidal activities against Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, Meloidogyne incognita, and Tenebrio molitor. Two important findings stood out: (i) 5F4IPP induced parasite death, and interacted proficiently with Gln219 amino acid of pentameric GluCl in docking analysis, and (ii) 5-iodoindole appeared to act by forming giant vacuoles in nematodes, which led to a form of non-apoptotic death known as methuosis. The study suggests halogenated-indoles and 1H-pyrrolo [2, 3-b] pyridine derivatives be regarded potential biocides for plant-parasitic nematodes and insects, and warrants further research on the mode of actions, and field investigations.
Female resistance and harmonic convergence influence male mating success in Aedes aegypti
Authors: Aldersley Andrew , Cator Lauren J.
Published: February 2019

Despite the importance of mosquito mating biology to reproductive control strategies, a mechanistic understanding of individual mating interactions is currently lacking. Using synchronised high-speed video and audio recordings, we quantified behavioural and acoustic features of mating attempts between tethered female and free-flying maleAedes aegypti. In most couplings, males were actively displaced by female kicks in the early phases of the interaction, while flight cessation prior to adoption of the pre-copulatory mating pose also inhibited copulation. Successful males were kicked at a reduced rate and sustained paired contact-flight for longer than those that were rejected. We identified two distinct phases of acoustic interaction. Rapid frequency modulation of flight tones was observed in all interactions up to acceptance of the male. Harmonic convergence (wingbeat frequency matching) was detected more often in successful attempts, coinciding with the transition to stabilised paired flight and subsequent genital contact. Our findings provide a clearer understanding of the relationship between acoustic interactions and mating performance in mosquitoes, offering insights which may be used to target improvements in laboratory reared lines.
Genome defense against integrated organellar DNA fragments from plastids into plant nuclear genomes through DNA methylation
Authors: Yoshida Takanori , Furihata Hazuka Y. , To Taiko Kim , Kakutani Tetsuji , Kawabe Akira
Published: February 2019

Nuclear genomes are always faced with the modification of themselves by insertions and integrations of foreign DNAs and intrinsic parasites such as transposable elements. There is also substantial number of integrations from symbiotic organellar genomes to their host nuclear genomes. Such integration might have acted as a beneficial mutation during the evolution of symbiosis, while most of them have more or less deleterious effects on the stability of current genomes. Here we report the pattern of DNA substitution and methylation on organellar DNA fragments integrated from plastid into plant nuclear genomes. The genome analyses of 17 plants show homology–dependent DNA substitution bias. A certain number of these sequences are DNA methylated in the nuclear genome. The intensity of DNA methylation also decays according to the increase of relative evolutionary times after being integrated into nuclear genomes. The methylome data of epigenetic mutants shows that the DNA methylation of organellar DNA fragments in nuclear genomes are mainly dependent on the methylation maintenance machinery, while other mechanisms may also affect on the DNA methylation level. The DNA methylation on organellar DNA fragments may contribute to maintaining the genome stability and evolutionary dynamics of symbiotic organellar and their host’s genomes.
Objective evaluation of physical activity pattern using smart devices
Authors: Šimaitytė Monika , Petrėnas Andrius , Kravčenko Julija , Kaldoudi Eleni , Marozas Vaidotas
Published: February 2019

Physical activity session frequency and distribution over time may play a significant role on survival after major cardiovascular events. However, the existing amount-based metrics do not account for these properties, thus the physical activity pattern is not fully evaluated. The aim of this work is to introduce a metric which accounts for the difference between the actual and uniform distribution of physical activity, thus its value depends on physical activity aggregation over time. The practical application is demonstrated on a step data from 40 participants, half of them diagnosed with chronic cardiovascular disease (CVD). The metric is capable of discriminating among different daily patterns, including going to and from work, walking in a park and being active the entire day. Moreover, the results demonstrate the tendency of CVD patients being associated with higher aggregation values, suggesting that CVD patients spend more time in a sedentary behaviour compared to healthy participants. By combining the aggregation with the intensity metric, such common weekly patterns as inactivity, regular activity and “weekend warrior” can be captured. The metric is expected to have clinical relevance since it may provide additional information on the relationship between physical activity pattern and health outcomes.
Predictive factors of prognosis after radiation and steroid pulse therapy in thyroid eye disease
Authors: Ito Makoto , Takahashi Yasuhiro , Katsuda Eisuke , Oshima Yukihiko , Takeuchi Arisa , Mori Toshie , Abe Souichirou , Mori Yoshimasa , Kakizaki Hirohiko , Suzuki Kojiro
Published: February 2019

To identify predictive factors of prognosis after radiotherapy with concurrent steroid pulse therapy for thyroid eye disease, retrospective analyses were performed among 77 patients. Clinical activity score and magnetic resonance imaging were used to evaluate degrees of orbital inflammation. As a pre-treatment work-up, the thyroid-stimulating antibody (TSAb) level was measured. During a median follow-up of 25.0 months, the 2-year cumulative relapse-free rate (CRFR) was 80.9%. In the univariate analysis, a worse 2-year CRFR was significantly associated with the presence of optic neuropathy (P = 0.001), a higher TSAb rate (P = 0.001), and lower standard deviation (SD) of signal intensity at the extraocular muscle in T2-weighted images (P = 0.006). In the multivariate analysis, TSAb rate and SD affected the CRFR independently. When TSAb activity of 2800% was set as a cut-off at 2 years after treatment, the predictive sensitivity and specificity of relapse were 81.2% and 90.6%, respectively. With regard to SD, the respective sensitivity and specificity values were 81.2% and 82.7% when 100 was set as a cut-off. In conclusion, high TSAb and low SD were significant risk factors for cumulative relapse in orbital radiotherapy. Cut-off values of 2800% for TSAb and 100 for SD may be suitable.
Using Gjd3-CreEGFP mice to examine atrioventricular node morphology and composition
Authors: Bhattacharyya Samadrita , Duan Jialei , Wang Lin , Li Boxun , Bhakta Minoti , Fernandez-Perez Antonio , Hon Gary C. , Munshi Nikhil V.
Published: February 2019

The atrioventricular node (AVN) coordinates the timing of atrial and ventricular contraction to optimize cardiac performance. To study this critical function using mouse genetics, however, new reagents are needed that allow AVN-specific manipulation. Here we describe a novel Gjd3-CreEGFP mouse line that successfully recombines floxed alleles within the AVN beginning at E12.5. These mice have been engineered to express CreEGFP under the control of endogenous Gjd3 regulatory elements without perturbing native protein expression. Detailed histological analysis of Gjd3-CreEGFP mice reveals specific labeling of AVN cardiomyocytes and a subset of cardiac endothelial cells. Importantly, we show that Gjd3-CreEGFP mice have preserved cardiac mechanical and electrical function. In one application of our newly described mouse line, we provide a three-dimensional (3D) view of the AVN using tissue clearing combined with confocal microscopy. With this 3D model as a reference, we identify specific AVN sub-structures based on marker staining characteristics. In addition, we use our Gjd3-CreEGFP mice to guide microdissection of the AVN and construction of a single-cell atlas. Thus, our results establish a new transgenic tool for AVN-specific recombination, provide an updated model of AVN morphology, and describe a roadmap for exploring AVN cellular heterogeneity.
Phosphoproteomic analyses of kidneys of Atlantic salmon infected with Aeromonas salmonicida
Authors: Liu Peng-fei , Du Yishuai , Meng Lingjie , Li Xian , Yang Dong , Liu Ying
Published: February 2019

Aeromonas salmonicida (A. salmonicida) is a pathogenic bacterium that causes furunculosis and poses a significant global risk, particularly in economic activities such as Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) farming. In a previous study, we identified proteins that are significantly upregulated in kidneys of Atlantic salmon challenged with A. salmonicida. Phosphoproteomic analyses were conducted to further clarify the dynamic changes in protein phosphorylation patterns triggered by bacterial infection. To our knowledge, this is the first study to characterize phosphorylation events in proteins from A. salmonicida-infected Atlantic salmon. Overall, we identified over 5635 phosphorylation sites in 3112 proteins, and 1502 up-regulated and 77 down-regulated proteins quantified as a 1.5-fold or greater change relative to control levels. Based on the combined data from proteomic and motif analyses, we hypothesize that five prospective novel kinases (VRK3, GAK, HCK, PKCδ and RSK6) with common functions in inflammatory processes and cellular pathways to regulate apoptosis and the cytoskeleton could serve as potential biomarkers against bacterial propagation in fish. Data from STRING-based functional network analyses indicate that fga is the most central protein. Our collective findings provide new insights into protein phosphorylation patterns, which may serve as effective indicators of A. salmonicida infection in Atlantic salmon.
A dual-port THz Time Domain Spectroscopy System optimized for recovery of a sample’s Jones matrix
Authors: Zhao Guozhong , Savini Giorgio , Yu Yang , Li Shuai , Zhang Jin , Ade Peter
Published: February 2019

We describe the design, build and characterization of a novel two-output port configuration for a THz-Time Domain Spectroscopy (TDS) system. By introducing a tilted THz ultra-broadband polarizer, we split the THz beam in two orthogonal polarization detector branches. The probe laser is similarly split (with an optical polarizer) replicating the detection chain to obtain two independent orthogonal polarization detection units. We describe the system’s performance highlighting some of the advantages of this system in one of its two modes of operation: optimized polarimetry for Jones matrix measurements. A bi-refringent sapphire standard was measured to confirm its capabilities and assess the performance of the system showing good agreement with existing literature data.
Whole Genome Sequence, Variant Discovery and Annotation in Mapuche-Huilliche Native South Americans
Authors: Vidal Elena A. , Moyano Tomás C. , Bustos Bernabé I. , Pérez-Palma Eduardo , Moraga Carol , Riveras Eleodoro , Montecinos Alejandro , Azócar Lorena , Soto Daniela C. , Vidal Mabel , Di Genova Alex , Puschel Klaus , Nürnberg Peter , Buch Stephan , Hampe Jochen , Allende Miguel L. , Cambiazo Verónica , González Mauricio , Hodar Christian , Montecino Martín , Muñoz-Espinoza Claudia , Orellana Ariel , Reyes-Jara Angélica , Travisany Dante , Vizoso Paula , Moraga Mauricio , Eyheramendy Susana , Maass Alejandro , De Ferrari Giancarlo V. , Miquel Juan Francisco , Gutiérrez Rodrigo A.
Published: February 2019

Whole human genome sequencing initiatives help us understand population history and the basis of genetic diseases. Current data mostly focuses on Old World populations, and the information of the genomic structure of Native Americans, especially those from the Southern Cone is scant. Here we present annotation and variant discovery from high-quality complete genome sequences of a cohort of 11 Mapuche-Huilliche individuals (HUI) from Southern Chile. We found approximately 3.1 × 106 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) per individual and identified 403,383 (6.9%) of novel SNVs events. Analyses of large-scale genomic events detected 680 copy number variants (CNVs) and 4,514 structural variants (SVs), including 398 and 1,910 novel events, respectively. Global ancestry composition of HUI genomes revealed that the cohort represents a sample from a marginally admixed population from the Southern Cone, whose main genetic component derives from Native American ancestors. Additionally, we found that HUI genomes contain variants in genes associated with 5 of the 6 leading causes of noncommunicable diseases in Chile, which may have an impact on the risk of prevalent diseases in Chilean and Amerindian populations. Our data represents a useful resource that can contribute to population-based studies and for the design of early diagnostics or prevention tools for Native and admixed Latin American populations.
Discovery of recurring slope lineae candidates in Mawrth Vallis, Mars
Authors: Bhardwaj Anshuman , Sam Lydia , Martín-Torres F. Javier , Zorzano María-Paz
Published: February 2019

Several interpretations of recurring slope lineae (RSL) have related RSL to the potential presence of transient liquid water on Mars. Such probable signs of liquid water have implications for Mars exploration in terms of rover safety, planetary protection during rover operations, and the current habitability of the planet. Mawrth Vallis has always been a prime target to be considered for Mars rover missions due to its rich mineralogy. Most recently, Mawrth Vallis was one of the two final candidates selected by the European Space Agency as a landing site for the ExoMars 2020 mission. Therefore, all surface features and landforms in Mawrth Vallis that may be of special interest in terms of scientific goals, rover safety, and operations must be scrutinised to better assess it for future Mars missions. Here, we report on the initial detection of RSL candidates in two craters of Mawrth Vallis. The new sightings were made outside of established RSL regions and further prompt the inclusion of a new geographical region within the RSL candidate group. Our inferences on the RSL candidates are based on several morphological and geophysical evidences and analogies: (i) the dimensions of the RSL candidates are consistent with confirmed mid-latitude RSL; (ii) albedo and thermal inertia values are comparable to those of other mid-latitude RSL sites; and (iii) features are found in a summer season image and on the steep and warmest slopes. These results denote the plausible presence of transient liquid brines close to the previously proposed landing ellipse of the ExoMars rover, rendering this site particularly relevant to the search of life. Further investigations of Mawrth Vallis carried out at higher spatial and temporal resolutions are needed to identify more of such features at local scales to maximize the scientific return from the future Mars rovers, to prevent probable biological contamination during rover operations, to evade damage to rover components as brines can be highly corrosive, and to quantify the ability of the regolith at mid-latitudes to capture atmospheric water which is relevant for in-situ-resource utilization.
Development of 3D PVA scaffolds for cardiac tissue engineering and cell screening applications
Authors: Dattola Elisabetta , Parrotta Elvira Immacolata , Scalise Stefania , Perozziello Gerardo , Limongi Tania , Candeloro Patrizio , Coluccio Maria Laura , Maletta Carmine , Bruno Luigi , De Angelis Maria Teresa , Santamaria Gianluca , Mollace Vincenzo , Lamanna Ernesto , Di Fabrizio Enzo , Cuda Giovanni
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was the design of a 3D scaffold composed of poly(vinyl) alcohol (PVA) for cardiac tissue engineering (CTE) applications.
Dual targeted and pH-responsive gold nanorods with improved chemotherapy and photothermal ablation for synergistic cancer treatment
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Hui , Yan Lin , Hu Zhiqiang , Wu Xiuli , Li Fengmei
Published: February 2019

A dual-targeted pH-responsive GNR for synergistic cancer treatment was developed and investigated, which demonstrated the desired potential for enhancing therapeutic performance.
Effect of welding parameters on mechanical properties and microstructure of friction stir welded brass joints
Authors: Geçmen İnan , Çatalgöl Zarif , Bilici Mustafa Kemal
Published: February 2019

Friction stir welding is a method developed for the welding of high-alloy aluminum materials which are difficult to combine with conventional welding methods. Friction stir welding of MS 63 (brass) plates used different tools (tapered cylindrical, tapered threaded cylindrical), tool rotational speeds (1040, 1500, 2080 rpm) and traverse speeds (30,45,75,113 mm.min−1). Tensile, bending, radiography and microstructure tests were carried out to determine the mechanical properties of brass plates joined by friction stir welding technique. Microstructure characterization studies were based on optical microscope and SEM analysis techniques. In addition, after joining operations, radiographs were taken to see the internal structure failure. Brass sheets were successfully joined to the forehead in the macrostructure study. In the evaluation of the microstructure, it was determined that there were four regions of base metal, thermomechanically affected zone (TMEB), heat-affected zone (HAZ) and stir zone. In both welding tools, the weld strength increased with increasing tool rotation speed. The particles in the stir zone are reduced by increasing of the tool rotation speed. Given the strength and % elongation values, the highest weld strength was achieved with tapered pin tool with a tool rotation speed of 1040 rpm and a tool feed speed of 113 min−1.
Effects of annealing treatment on mechanical properties of 8011 aluminum alloy after cryogenic rolling
Authors: Cui Junjun , Chen Liqing , Li Yanfei , Liu Jiahua , Xie Jiaqi
Published: February 2019

In order to improve mechanical properties of roll cast 8011 aluminum alloy (AA 8011) by grain strengthening, and expand its application field, the effect of different annealing treating processes on mechanical properties and microstructures of cryogenic rolled AA 8011 was investigated. The roll cast AA 8011 was cryogenic rolled for six passes and then annealed. The annealing treatment was adopted at 100–300 °C for 1 h, and then the annealing treatment was adopted at 220 °C for 10–80 min. The microstructures of AA 8011 under roll cast and cryogenic rolled states were studied by using OM. The grain size was calculated by the Image-pro-plus 5.0. The microstructures of AA 8011 under annealing states were observed by using TEM and energy dispersive spectrum analysis. The results show that the second phase Al8Fe2Si appears in the cryogenic rolled AA 8011 after annealing treatment. When the dislocation moves in the grain, the dislocation plays a pinning role, which is conducive to grain refinement. The optical annealing treatment was treated at 220 °C for 40 min with optimal thermal stability. The ideal grain size is 1 μm, hardness is 65 HV, and tensile strength is 202 MPa. It is about 1.5 times of the roll cast AA 8011.
Effect of basicity on cementitious activity of modified electric arc furnace steel slag
Authors: Lu Xiang , Dai Wenbin , Liu Xiaoming , Cang Daqiang , Zhou Liang
Published: February 2019

Electric arc furnace steel slag was modified by wastes in hot-stage process with the aim to improve the cementitious activity. Effect of basicity on cementitious activity of modified steel slag was investigated in this research. The modified slag was characterized by XRD, DTA and Raman spectra techniques to investigate the correlations between structural features and the cementitious activity. The results showed that modified steel slag with a basicity index of 1.67 possessed the highest activity index, 107%, due to the precipitation of Belite, high content of amorphous phase and low polymerization degree. The polymerization degree of modified slag was demonstrated by nonbridging oxygen per tetrahedrally coordinated cations value which was calculated through curve-fitted Raman spectra. The value of modified slag increased as the basicity promoted from 1.05 to 1.67, indicating a lower degree of polymerization. Modified slag with a basicity index of 1.86 possessed the poor cementitious activity mainly because of the significant decrease of glass phase content.
The kinetics of vanadium extraction from spent hydroprocessing catalyst by leaching with sulfuric acid at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Wang Hongjun , Feng Yali , Li Haoran , Deng Xiangyi , Kang Jinxing
Published: February 2019

The dissolution kinetics of vanadium from spent hydroprocessing catalyst was investigated by leaching with sulfuric acid at atmospheric pressure. The effects of stirring speed (400–800 rpm), initial sulfuric acid concentration (0.60–1.20 mol/l) and reaction temperature (373–423 K) on the vanadium dissolution were studied. The results showed that the vanadium dissolution ratio was practically independent of stirring speed at the investigated range, while increasing with the increases of sulfuric acid concentration and reaction temperature. The experimental data agreed quite well with the shrinking core model, with solid membrane diffusion as the rate controlling step. The apparent activation energy was calculated as 11.44 kJ/mol, and the reaction order with respect to sulfuric acid concentrations was determined to be 1.51. The kinetics equation of the leaching process was established as:

1 − 2x/3 − (1 − x)2/3 = 0.067[H2SO4]1.51exp[ − 11563/RT ]t.
Tuberöse-Sklerose-Komplex: Analyse des okulären Phänotyps und assoziierter Komplikationen
Authors: Zweipfenning Florian , Toelle Sandra , Gerth-Kahlert Christina
Published: February 2019

Hintergrund Evaluation und Vergleich des okulären Phänotyps von Patienten, die mit tuberöser Sklerose (TSC) diagnostiziert wurden. Analyse der okulären Komplikationen während der Untersuchungsperiode.

Methoden Es wurde eine retrospektive Datenanalyse von Patienten mit TSC, die ophthalmologische Untersuchungen an der Augenklinik des Universitätsspitals Zürich erhalten hatten, durchgeführt. Bestkorrigierter Visus, Refraktion, Gesichtsfeld, Vorderabschnitts- und Fundusbefunde mit Unterscheidung der Hamartomarten wurden aus den Patientenakten extrahiert. Die Studie wurde durch die kantonale Ethikkommission Zürich bewilligt.

Resultate Insgesamt wurden Daten von 30 Patienten (19 weiblich, 11 männlich) mit TSC identifiziert. Das Alter bei der Erstuntersuchung variierte von 7 Monaten bis 44 Jahre (median 13,3 Jahre, Standardabweichung [SD] 11,31). Bei 17 von 30 Patienten lagen Daten der Follow-up-Untersuchung zwischen 4 Monaten und 19 Jahren vor (median 4,3 Jahre, SD 5,24). Daten der quantitativen Visusüberprüfung lagen von 26/30 Patienten vor, wobei 22/26 einen beidseitig altersentsprechenden Visus aufwiesen. Die Ursache der Visuseinschränkung bei 4 Patienten waren: Komplikation eines subependymalen Riesenzellastrozytoms mit einer beidseitigen Optikusatrophie; retinale Toxizität bei Vigabatrinmedikation; Vorderabschnittsdysgenesie und einseitige Amblyopie ex Anisometropie. Retinale Hamartome waren in 15/30 Patienten dokumentiert: bei 8 Patienten einseitig, bei 7 beidseitig. Der flache Hamartomtyp wurde häufiger als der multinoduläre Typ (10/15 vs. 6/15) beschrieben.

Schlussfolgerungen Der okuläre Phänotyp unserer Patientenkohorte zeigt Übereinstimmungen mit der Literatur. Mit TSC diagnostizierte Patienten erfordern regelmäßige ophthalmologische Kontrollen, um sekundäre Komplikationen wie ein Papillenödem, starken Visusverlust oder Gesichtsfeldeinschränkung frühzeitig zu diagnostizieren.
Neuronale Kontrolle des Blutdrucks
Authors: Eibl Angi , Predel Hans-Georg , Sanders Tanja , Zacher Jonas
Published: February 2019

Die neuronale Kontrolle des Blutdrucks wird über das vegetative Nervensystem vermittelt. In diesem Beitrag werden physiologische und pathophysiologische Mechanismen rekapituliert. Aufgabe der Blutdruckregulation ist die Erhaltung eines adäquaten Herzzeitvolumens und eines ausreichenden Perfusionsdrucks für die Organe. Beim Glaukom ist der okuläre Perfusionsdruck als Differenz zwischen systemischem Blutdruck und intraokulärem Druck entscheidend für die Versorgung des Sehnervs. So sind Patienten mit Normaldruckglaukom und niedrig eingestelltem Blutdruck gefährdet, eine Progression ihres Glaukoms zu erleiden. Auch beim primären Offenwinkelglaukom spielt der systemische Blutdruck eine Rolle. Eine 24-Stunden-Blutdruckmessung mit besonderem Augenmerk auf das nächtliche Dipping des Blutdrucks ist für alle Glaukompatienten empfehlenswert. Internisten und Ophthalmologen sollten sich der gegenseitigen Beeinflussung beider Krankheitsbilder bewusst sein und diese in die Auswahl der individuellen Therapiestrategien und -ziele einbeziehen.